Day 2, part 2, Dandora Baptist Church

As our hearts wrestled with the demise of these people's reality we arrived at the Dandora Baptist Church we were to worship in. Yes the surroundings were not much different than what we had just witnessed but the stark contrast of the filth outside and the clean beauty within was almost surreal. It reminded me of how God sees us, not what is on the outside but what is inside. Or rather the hope that he gives us in the midst of the darkness around us. And how believing that will change your external viewing of life. That's exactly what these people were doing. They really dig deep to know Him better and that's how they smile and go on.

Sunday school kids

the children's slide in the church yard

Slide

their rock climbing area

those eyes get me every time

The agenda for the day

inscription on the floor of church

little boy was peaking through the wall of their old church

love the bright colored door

precious are the children

read through those eyes

The worship service was incredibly joyful, which challenges my heart still now. How can they have such joy when their dark reality is right outside their  front door. Didn't take me long to know that answer...they loved, loved, loved their Lord and Savior and truly accepted His promise of hope and grace. Yes it lasted over 3 hrs but God was so present as the church members each contributed by either having some amazing singing, testimony sharing, or preaching. Lots of "Praise the Lords", "God is good". And BTW they like to repeat those kind of phrases at least 5 times, each time they are spoken. Had to have a few internal laughs! I left filled with memories of faith, hope and LOTS of love. I know I took away more than I left...