As our time has come to an end in Swaziland we’d like to reflect on our
experience. We truly enjoyed the opportunity to spend time with the kids and
staff at the CarePoint- Mpaka. During our visit we each connected with several
of the kids whom we were sad to leave. It is amazing to see the impact the local
Swazi’s are having on this generation.
Despite the current situations some of the kids face it was encouraging to
see them show up with huge smiles and so willing to run up to us and give us
hugs. Among the different activities we were involved in we were able to teach
them lessons on being brave, courageous and strong because of Christ who lives
in us.
We also had the opportunity to minister to the staff including the cooks.
We had fellowship and morning devotion where we talked about day-to- day
problems/struggles and how to overcome them. They were willing to share
some of the their struggles which helped us to see we are all really alike despite
the language barrier and culture in which we grew up in.
Another ministry opportunity we were involved with was going to the
homes of some of the kids from Mpaka care point. We would bring common
cooking supplies and food- (i.e- beans, cornmeal, rice, vegetables, fruit). One
family we visited told our translator how they had just recently used all of their
money for their daughter’s doctor’s visit. The woman mentioned how she knew
the Lord would provide for her family and here we were showing up at their
house to bring them food.
One of our most challenging and memorable days was our last day doing
ministry. We finished serving the kids their meal at the care point and said our
goodbyes before making our way to our last home visit. On the way we
discovered we were going to a child-headed home. There were a total of 9
children living in this one home and providing for themselves. We gathered
around to pray and encourage them. They ranged in age from 3-14 years old.
Several of the kids began crying as we spoke and prayed. Our entire team was
impacted and left with a huge burden for these kids who should be enjoying their
childhood instead of having to grow up so quickly.
Even though our time here was short we are taking back plenty of
memories and inspiration of how God can use us back at home in our local
community. We pray for those who are reading this would also join us in prayer
for this community in Manzini. We pray the Lord will place upon your heart a
desire to help this particular Care Point as they need a monthly sponsor to help
continue running it. May you be blessed!
