Is This Real Life

Hey Ya’ll!

Hope all is well at home back in the states; things are going great here in South Africa! Today we had a day off and we went on an African safari to bond together as a team and recharge for our next set of classes/activities.

It was an early start for us…like 6:30 am start to be exact, but we all took naps on the car ride. Once we arrived at the safari we were greeted with glasses of sparkling apple cider and an amazing view with breakfast. As we waited for our Safari we were entertained by Natalie and a peacock, who had a stare down.

The safari was absolutely breathtaking with not a single cloud in sight and the sun shining; it was gorgeous! It was a bumpy ride, but the animals were worth it. We saw lions, elephants, zebras, ostriches, hippos, rhinos, springboks, mountain buffalo, and other animals. We certainly were the wacky tourist on the safari as we were all trying to get the perfect picture of all the animals and gorgeous views, I felt bad for the few other people on the safari with us as they probably thought we were “Crazy Americans.” But it was truly beautiful for God is the greatest artist. After the safari we went to dinner in Franschhoek and walked around a bit engulfing ourselves in the culture around us. It really is a beautiful little town. Before bed we got to see the academy kids and wish them a good first day as they start school tomorrow. I got to pray with a group of them because they were nervous. It was a cool experience to pray for peace and comfort. These kids are great kids and this country is beautiful in so many ways. It’s so surreal and I’m constantly asking myself, “Is this real life?”

Today was a great day. It was nice to just stand together as a team in the glory of God and take it all in. It was a blessing to bond and recharge as tomorrow we start teaching CHE classes, doing prayer walks, and house visits in Sweet Home. We also will be doing the after school program at the academy. I’ve seen God doing great things through the hearts of this team. And I’m excited to see what He will continue to do these last few days. He has used each of us and our gifts in incredible ways ministering to these people and teaching lifelong lessons. It’s hard to explain the bond we have as a team, but one thing I know for sure is that we are all rooted in Christ and it’s been rad to see God work through all of us. We are here because God called each of us and it’s evident that God is working here in South Africa and we are blessed to be a part of it. I know that God is stirring up in all of our hearts and I’m excited to see what God has in store for the rest of the trip because this is real life and God is definitely moving.

Much love to you all! Be Blessed!

-Steven

P.S. Hi Mom & Dad! And shout out to all my friends and family! I love and miss you all!! J