NEWSLETTER
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April 2007
Greetings from South Africa:
Another month has passed and, once again, I find myself rejoicing in the greatness of our God. Each and every day, I am increasingly thankful to God for bringing me to South Africa, and for allowing me the incredible opportunity to minister alongside such wonderful people as the Zakariasen family. As I reflect on the many things that God has allowed me to participate in, over the past several months, I cannot help but think, “God you are truly amazing! I never would have dreamed or imagined this for my life. Thank you for choosing to use me, here in South Africa.”
Well, the month of March certainly passed by quickly, in a flurry of activity… During the first two weeks, we were able to maintain a nice, steady pace, as the kids finished up their schoolwork in preparation for our first school holiday of the year. Those weeks were also spent preparing for the many visitors that would be arriving, throughout the month. We welcomed our first group, five members of Sarah’s family, on March 16th. One of their purposes in coming was to help with some projects around the house. I cannot believe everything they accomplished, in the short time they were here – they tiled the floor in two rooms, they painted five rooms, they built a carpet ball table, and they did many other things, as well. Although, much of their time was spent on those work projects, they still found plenty of time to do many fun things. On March 21st, all 15 of us woke up early to participate in the Sunnyside 5K run. It was a beautiful day, and we all had a great time. On another day, I was able to join Sarah’s family as they took a game ride on horseback through the Warmbaths Game Preserve. I had done the horseback game ride once before, but did not see too many animals. This time, however, we saw a whole journey of giraffes, a rhino, warthogs, and many different bucks. Regardless of how many times I see these animals, I am still continually struck by the awesomeness of God’s creation.
Two days after Sarah’s family headed back to the States, we welcomed our second group of the month – nine members of the Graham family, from Pine Island, Minnesota. They have only been here for a few days, but they have already jumped into ministry. As I write, they are out in Opperman, helping Pastor Nicolas with some projects that he has and, this coming weekend, they will be ministering at the Easter Conference in Soutpan. It is a blessing to see their entire family, children included, serving the Lord together.
As I mentioned in my last update, the Sunday School class I help with (Grades 1-3) was preparing a song to present to the church congregation for Easter. On March 11th, the children gathered their palm branches and put on their headscarves, as they sang “Hosanna to the King!” before the congregation at Central Baptist Church. They did a really great job! I know I have said it before, but I really do love being a part of the Sunday School ministry at Central Baptist Church. It is very humbling to know that these children are looking up to me and watching what I do, but it is also an encouragement for me to make sure that I am setting a good, godly example. I count it a privilege and honor to be able to contribute, in a small way, to the lives of these children.
Now, with only 5 ½ weeks remaining of my time in South Africa, I find myself anxiously anticipating how God will continue to guide and direct in my life. In complete honesty, it is going to be very hard to leave South Africa – harder than I ever imagined it would be – as the people I have met here have forever left an imprint on my heart. Still, I say, “How great is our God?!” to have allowed me such a wonderful year filled with ministries and amazing opportunities. But, I still have 5 ½ weeks left, and I am excited to see what God has planned for me, during those weeks…
“The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; His mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.” – Lamentations 3:22-23
Serving the Lord in South Africa,
Krista Smith
P.S. For current updates and pictures, please visit my website: www.journeytoafrica.org
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