Its been a number of months since my teaching mission trip to Ethiopia and Kenya and yet it is still affecting my life nearly as much as when we were there. Africa is an amazing place. The diversity, in nearly every way, is remarkable. The experience is rich. The people are beautiful.

In so many ways one witnesses and experiences God’s creative hand. I don’t know, but I just feel about as close to Him as I ever have when there. My thinking has been challenged in so many ways as I learn the dynamics of culture and the heart of the people. “Fixes, cures or solutions” to problems we encounter from our western perspective most often don’t hold water to the needs, but the local people’s ideas do. What an education! Who’s teaching who?

I had the opportunity to teach over 900 young people about the sanctity of human life with a little dose of how to be a life giver thrown in. I believe, in addition to the heart of the information given, the audience felt blessed. Throughout our stay they desired to bless us back. They did that in many ways.

Perhaps one of the most significant ways they blessed us was through the rapt attention they gave each of the presentations – whether in the form of a teaching or more formally, a sermon. The astounding thing is that when they hear Jesus’ heart, they intend to take action. When there, there are so many examples of life changes – they embrace the words of Christ and sometimes do a complete lifestyle turnaround.

When participating in baptizing 100s in the Awash River screams of exultation, literally, rock one’s world. The excitement of being baptized just like Jesus for some is almost too much to withstand. It’s a kind of tonic…a very visible and vocal reminder of our first love and our first experiences with the Lord. Oh my. As those gathered sing and praise the Lord after that experience there is a feeling that is…is just, holy.

Traveling with Unite 4 Africa is a tremendous experience. Worth spiritually and otherwise so much more than the minimal cost to go. U4A’s staff is attentive, attending to the needs of the team. I heartily recommend accompanying Okongo on an upcoming trip and/or taking an opportunity to learn more about the ministry that is accomplishing so much for the people. What you have heard is true. It is so amazing how God works it all together. He is first, no, He is all. Traveling with U4A is an opportunity of a lifetime.

John Tabor