Right now, we’re living in a small village in Ethiopia, partnering with an organization called HopEthiopia. Their mission is beautiful, the restoration of both the people and the land of Ethiopia. It’s been a challenging, humbling, and deeply rewarding experience.
With my degree in social work, I’ve especially enjoyed connecting with the Ethiopian social workers here. It is deeply unifying about sharing the same heart for people, even when our cultures are so different.
It’s currently rainy season here. Instead of four seasons like we’re used to, Ethiopia has two main ones, rainy and dry. And when it rains—it rains. Sometimes even hail
For our ministry days, we have been digging holes, planting trees, helping with construction projects, and partnering with local churches to share sermons and disciple students. Each morning, we start the day at 7am with devotions alongside young girls who live at HopEthiopia. Afterward, we run a VBS-style camp for about 30 children and teens which carries into the afternoon.
One of the most beautiful aspects of this trip is the consistency. We get to pour into the same group of kids every single day. There’s a slow but sacred growth that happens when showing up daily. names become familiar, laughter starts to sound like home.
The biggest thing the Lord has been teaching me is rest. The kind that doesn’t just come from a nap or a day off, but from meeting God in the silence. I’ve been learning the difference between solitude and isolation. Solitude is a gift. It’s being alone with God. It’s the space where I am filled up, renewed, and reminded of who I am. Isolation is dangerous. It’s pulling away to escape rather than engage, leaving me disconnected from the very source of our strength. If I want to truly experience the life of Jesus, I need to adopt His lifestyle. He didn’t rush. He made time for solitude with the Father. He created space to hear, pray, rest, even while surrounded by constant need. He moved slowly, intentionally, was never hurried.
Here, surrounded by wide open land, far from the noise and pace of home, it’s easier to enter that space.And in that stillness, I’m learning what it means to abide. To be present. To slow down.
I am so inspired by you and your journey with the Lord. How beautiful it is to be able to minister to those special kids. Abide in him- we all can recognize the need for stillness in our lives/ with it comes great clarity. I pray for you daily and am encouraged by your faithfulness and strength! Sending you love from SC.