| Funnel Times, Vol. 1 |
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September 2007
My brother Erick sent me an encouraging email my first week, and it’s about turning the world upside down (Acts 16). I know mine has been and it would be amazing to be a part of something radical. Lily of the Valley Children’s home is filled with 100 young voices, who are full of life. From the moment I arrived, five little girls bombarded my house asking questions, getting my luggage, climbing on the volunteers. My roommates are from England and we share a three-bedroom house in the middle of the children’s village. Every morning our house is surrounded by the children playing or going to school. It’s brilliant (as my roommates would say)! The children are well taken care of by their house mothers, some are more trusting than others due to the horrible circumstances. It is a well-run organization but at the same time relaxed and flexible. I’ve already driven a car full of kids several times, on the other side of the road, changing gears with my left hand. Last week I taught kindergarten for three days. I am so glad I substituted in kindergarten before I came or all of my hair would have gone white. With the little ones, it is harder because they speak Zulu. I sure know how to say “quiet,” “sit down,” and “listen” in Zulu now! There are days I wake up and still feel I’m dreaming because I cannot believe I am here. I see giraffes in the distance in the mornings and I watch the African sun set while one of the older children is reading to me in English, as we are sitting outside on the grass. The other night I did feel helpless against the spiritual battles going on. Some of the children have suffered extreme trauma in different areas of their lives and I know that if the Lord does not set them free from these strongholds, they will never overcome. I am way in over my head in a way, but I know that is where the Lord wants me. He is able to do above and beyond what we could ask or think. Is He not the one who searches the deepest part of us? The Lord has provided and will continue to provide for my stay here: spiritually, physically and emotionally. I wish you all could come and visit Lily. I do covet your prayers in whatever way the Lord should lead you. Sala Kahle! (Stay well) Ana Villalvazo, Mophela, South Africa |
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