Uganda Day 3: Expectations Exceeded

We arrived at Koro Farm for morning devotion with our SOM kids (here they call it Sports Outreach Ministries). Julie and Brett got us all fired up for the day with two great devotions. They shared about working for the Lord with all your heart and taught about the Lord's greatest commands to Love first Him, then our neighbors.

We split into two groups for our morning projects. Some took on the task of gathering dead corn stacks and distributing them as fertilizer. The other group did "construction'" which consisted of digging holes for the new kitchen and chopping down banana trees. Ugandans averaged 2 strikes with the machete, while Ashley averaged 8 strikes to sever the banana tree, there was a serious learning curve. The two teams joined forces to unload a truck filled with 600+ pavers, full blown assembly line necessary. Tea time with Millie was great, many of us managed to drink hot tea in 85 degree weather.

After lunch we went on two home visits to the huts of neighboring church members. Our team was incredibly encouraged by two different experiences; both families shared their stories of brokenness that is being combated and mended through childlike faith in the Lord. Praying with these families was a memory that we hope never fades.

Back at the farm the teens prepared a great dance for us followed by impromptu devotions from YT, Ashley, and Rodney. Afterwards, the men conducted a soccer clinic and the women shared a special moment with the ladies of the Beautiful Feet Ministries.

The final experience of the evening brought about many emotions. The team took the bumpy, mogul-esque, clay dirt bus ride to the Lajwatek village. Never before have we been greeted with such excitement, love, and impressive dance moves. The children of Lajwatek performed three dances that left us in awe. And as if that were not enough we heard the testimony of Esther. Esther was declared dead for three days, when the pastor at Koro Farm was asked to pray over her dead body in preparation for her burial. As he prayed he felt compelled to ask God to restore her life. And He did. This miracle has transformed the lives of the entire village and has since inspired a spiritual movement. The village is in great condition and thriving. God's presence here is intoxicating. After some time with the children, and a quick dance lesson we headed back for the night with a full heart.

Highlights: Jordan and YT showed off their Mazungu moves at the Lajwatek village; CC and Betty got a little too friendly with a pig; Devon, Ashley, Jordan and Julie demonstrated The Wobble, and only got laughed at a few times; Brett had village children following the bus looking for the Santa who tosses suckers out the back window; Troy and John were voted Mr. Popularity as many of the community members are drawn to them and their meaningful conversations.