Guys, God is so so good. Just seeing Him move during this entire trip has been so amazing. Coming into this trip I was extremely nervous. I had never been away from home for so long, my aunt had just pasted away, I was a wreck. I was so worried my fear and pain would keep me back from everything God had for me here, but boy was I wrong. I can’t explain the peace God has given me during this whole trip. He really saved me from feeling overwhelmed by homesickness and I can’t believe we only have a week and a half left. We went to the carepoints for the first time last week and it was crazy. The kids are so amazing and even amidst the suffering that is so evident in these kids lives they continue to shine with such joy and life. Seeing the kids look into our eyes with such love and awe in there beautiful, deep eyes is a feeling that i’ve never felt before. Even with the pre-schoolers who don’t speak english, just hugging them and smiling into those big shining eyes, I know Jesus is right there, watching over these kids. When the older kids come later in the day it’s so encouraging getting to talk to them and become closer to them everyday we are with them. While I have loved being with the kids, the pain is so evident and breaks my heart. I just pray these kids know God’s love for them is greater than anything they will ever know. I am so thankful that I can be here. even though I know i’m in africa, it’s somehow easy to forget because it is just normal here. The culture is different but when i’m with my brothers and sisters it just feels like home. Never have i ever experienced such community and Christ like love as i have here, it’s truly insane. I miss my people at home, all my family, friends and church family. But i know God is bringing me back to you all soon and I pray that He is moving in you all back in Delaware(and MD). You are all amazing.
p.s. Mom and Dad thank you. Thank you for letting me obey God’s call and for being so supportive and loving me. I love you both so much. Jiu Jiu, Yanmei, Emily and Brian, I literally love you all so much. Jiu Jiu and Yanmei I hope Guatemala was amazing and life changing. Emily and Brian I hope you guys aren’t too bored at home without my craziness. I’ll be back soon, I love you all.
And thank you to all of my supporters, to everyone who helped me get here. Without you I wouldn’t be here, experiencing God move here is Swaziland so greatly. This has been life changing and I just want to thank you all, to everyone who donated, everyone who encouraged me wether in person or through a letter, and everyone who stood beside me and walked this journey here with me. Thank you. I love you all.
With love, Abby Smith
