Habakkuk 1:5"Look at the nations and be amazed! Watch and be astounded at what I will do! For I am doing something in your own day, something you wouldn't believe even if someone told you about it...2:3But these things I plan won't happen right away. Slowly, steadily, surely, the time approaches when the vision will be fulfilled. If it seems slow, wait patiently, for it will surely take place. It will not be delayed..."
I put my feet in the Indian Ocean!
Brenda and I were in Durban (pronounced: Duurbin – with a slight trill on the “r”) Tuesday for a series of client meetings. Before dinner she took me down to the beach and I was able to stick my feet in the water (cold) and watch the surfers for a bit.
For those of you not acquainted with Durban, it is on the Eastern coast of South Africa, a political “hotbed” of activity, a major import/export harbor (think Seattle harbor on steroids), and known for its beaches and surfing competitions. It is the third largest city in South Africa (behind Joburg #1, Cape Town #2) and gets the most rain (the climate is a lot like Kauai). Durban has blue trees (jacindas sp? - see picture of one in Joburg)! I have never seen that before!
Another of the day’s highlights came as a surprise. Brenda, and her business partner Robin, had Trish give me a tour of the area! I visited the ‘Valley of a 1000 Hills’ – Wow! I wish my camera had been working so I could share the views with you. The endless green hills rise in and out of the mist, small houses dot the landscape, little monkeys are in abundance (and very friendly – “Got some food for me?”), but sadly, this beauty is marred by immense poverty….a reminder of the disparity present in the world today.
On the one hand there is the wealth of gorgeous scenery/landscape, but on the other, the distress of the lands inhabitants due to unemployment. Not that poverty it isn’t being addressed - several organizations, entrepreneurs, etc. are joining to help the Zulu nation. Trish and her husband Gunter are a part of several ministries bringing job training and assistance to the area. But as always, more is needed.
It was an incredible day – one of my favorites thus far. I feel very fortunate I am seeing/feeling experiences that I wouldn’t have had the chance to encounter if I had stayed stateside.
Everyday turns into an adventure – even if I spend it reading! God is showing me new things all the time - I hope the same is true of you! Thanks again for your prayer between updates. Here is the latest from the last posting:
I put my feet in the Indian Ocean!
Brenda and I were in Durban (pronounced: Duurbin – with a slight trill on the “r”) Tuesday for a series of client meetings. Before dinner she took me down to the beach and I was able to stick my feet in the water (cold) and watch the surfers for a bit.
For those of you not acquainted with Durban, it is on the Eastern coast of South Africa, a political “hotbed” of activity, a major import/export harbor (think Seattle harbor on steroids), and known for its beaches and surfing competitions. It is the third largest city in South Africa (behind Joburg #1, Cape Town #2) and gets the most rain (the climate is a lot like Kauai). Durban has blue trees (jacindas sp? - see picture of one in Joburg)! I have never seen that before!
Another of the day’s highlights came as a surprise. Brenda, and her business partner Robin, had Trish give me a tour of the area! I visited the ‘Valley of a 1000 Hills’ – Wow! I wish my camera had been working so I could share the views with you. The endless green hills rise in and out of the mist, small houses dot the landscape, little monkeys are in abundance (and very friendly – “Got some food for me?”), but sadly, this beauty is marred by immense poverty….a reminder of the disparity present in the world today.
On the one hand there is the wealth of gorgeous scenery/landscape, but on the other, the distress of the lands inhabitants due to unemployment. Not that poverty it isn’t being addressed - several organizations, entrepreneurs, etc. are joining to help the Zulu nation. Trish and her husband Gunter are a part of several ministries bringing job training and assistance to the area. But as always, more is needed.
It was an incredible day – one of my favorites thus far. I feel very fortunate I am seeing/feeling experiences that I wouldn’t have had the chance to encounter if I had stayed stateside.
Everyday turns into an adventure – even if I spend it reading! God is showing me new things all the time - I hope the same is true of you! Thanks again for your prayer between updates. Here is the latest from the last posting:
- Computer issues – I am only getting/sending e-mail about once a week now – sorry for the delay of response to your messages! Rather than get frustrated I decided to go with the anti-connectivity flow!
- Family – things are better. Thanks for praying peace into my families heart!
- Protection – so far, so good!
- Spiritual growth and intimacy with God – I am being exposed to new and exciting aspects of God’s character all the time – and he is putting incredible people in my path! Thanks for praying for this.
- Sleep – Better! Last night was great - I slept 11 hours! I think I was making up for the 4– 5 hour nights the previous several days! Thanks again for praying for this – I am so much better when I am rested!
- Discernment / Wisdom – I know I am to go to Cape Town for the equip venture November 3rd (please pray for the right airline ticket). After the equip venture I am not sure if I am to remain in CT, or return to Joburg.
- Material Needs - I am borrowing vehicles as I need them and financial support is slowly trickling in. Thanks.
I am learning more and more how God values the spoken word. That said, a solid group of prayer supporters is my greatest need. I appreciate those of you who regularly remember me. Here is an updated “needs” list:
- Computer issues – I will be able to get e-mail up and downloaded in 10 minutes
- Family – continued peace and protection for them
- Protection – as I move around South Africa
- Spiritual growth and intimacy with God – that I will fully grasp the fullness of God’s love for me – see Ephesians 3:18-19 – I really want this!
- Sleep - consistent!
- Insight – I am attending a conference this weekend on “Purpose and Destiny” – pray that I will have a better understanding of what God is telling me!
- Discernment / Wisdom – please ask God that I clearly hear His voice, experience His leading, and begin to determine His direction for my life when I return stateside in 8 weeks
- Material Needs - continued transportation, $$ for supplies & God purposed travel
Thank you so much for your time, prayer, and for supporting me!
Blessings,
Dena
If you would like to financially help me during my extended stay in Africa please see FINANCIAL CONTRIBUTIONS below.
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