My Eyes Have Been Opened - An update from our team in Uganda

The very fact that I am here is a miracle of God. I was invited to go to Uganda after church on the 3rd and found myself on a plane the following Thursday the 7th! There were so many hoops to jump through for this to happen. Work, immunizations, visas, and tickets, were just some of the things that needed to be squared away. But God continued to open doors and made it clear He wanted me to be here. My boss even told me I needed to be on the trip and told me to take all the time off I needed. I was able to get all the medications and immunizations I needed to prevent serious illness and visa came through the day before we left. But, the most amazing thing to me, was the fact that there was only one seat left on the plane. God made it clear, He wanted me here.

Over the past few days my eyes have been opened to so much. The Ugandan people are so kind and welcoming. Their love and hospitality is unrivaled from any people I have ever met. Uganda is an extremely poor country and many struggle just to make ends meet for their most basic needs. However, I have learned it is a custom in Ugandan culture that at every meal they make a little extra food, set an extra place, and hope for a visitor to grace their table. It’s simply incredible to witness the heart of the Ugandan people and an honor to be among them.

This past Sunday the church service was incredible. The worship is unparalleled and the fellowship filled my heart to overflowing. During the service I was moved when they took an offering for the church and the pastor took the basket of offering, lifted it above his head, and prayed that no matter the amount God would be glorified and His church provided for.

God has provided so many divine appointments here. He is at work in this land. The battle wages every hour for the hearts and souls of these people. There is a very real demonic presence here as there are many who practice witchcraft. Often when there is no money or food, Ugandans will go the shrine of a witch doctor for help. Offerings will be made and sometimes a pledge of souls is given. It is scary stuff yet very real. But we serve a God who has no rival and no equal. Ground is being taken every day here, even physically at times. Land that once was used for these traditions, is now being used to minister to God's people and win souls for the kingdom.

There is still a lot of trip left for me. I would like all of you to partner with me in praying for the work here. Please pray for me to stay healthy both physically and spiritually. Please pray for the Ugandan people to turn their hearts to Christ. Pray for the pastors and directors here to be encouraged and strengthened by His Spirit. Pray for the events we are holding for the kids to be used by God to win the next generation to Himself.

May we always live for His Glory!

- Joshua E.