It's hard to believe the time has finally arrived. We're leaving Karanda to head back to the States this week. We have found Zimbabwe to be a beautiful country with many kind, hospitable Shona people, especially at Karanda Mission Hospital where they serve the needs of fellow rural Zimbabweans everyday.
We are leaving in the middle of planting season, when most people in the rural areas are planting corn and other crops to feed their families and possibly sell the rest of the year. Consequently the ward census is much lower than previous months. In fact, as I finished my last day of rounding on Sunday morning, the nurse in charge looked around the men's ward that was maybe one-third full and told me that only one of the patients there was from the hospital's local catchment area, the rest were from places like Harare, the capital, or other areas of the country, but they had all come seeking care at Karanda because of its reputation for quality medical care. Everyday, in fact, a large public bus picks up people in Harare and makes a round trip to Karanda and back because of the demand for transportation.
The doctors, nurses, and others at Karanda are doing a great job of being the hands and feet of Jesus on this earth as they seek to show his love to the people of Zimbabwe daily in word and deed.
We as a family have greatly enjoyed this opportunity as well. The pace of life has been relaxed, and though we've worked hard, the absence of distractions has allowed for family bonding time and building relationships with people whom we will certainly miss once we return home.
As we said goodbyes, almost everyone asked, "So when are you coming back?" Truthfully we don't know, it's in God's hands. But Zimbabwe has certainly found a place in our hearts, and we will not quickly forget the people or experiences we shared. Our prayers is that our service has left lasting fruit in the lives of those we met, and that our experiences in Zimbabwe will change us to make us more like Jesus. He is the one who humbled himself in love, service, and submission to the will of his Father so that through his life, death, and resurrection, each one of us might have true life if we turn from depending on ourselves to trusting in his sacrifice for the forgiveness of our sins and acceptance in the eyes of God. He made us, loves us, and wants us to reach out in love to each person around us. Let's be honest, that's a hard calling, and none of us does it perfectly, but it's what we were made for. In the words of the Lord Jesus, "It is more blessed to give than to receive." Help us Lord to live like you did, and experience the abundant life you desire for us. Amen.
We look forward to seeing many of you soon!
