for in Him we live and move and exist

Sanibona! Hey everyone! I am sitting in the business lounge at the conference center where I've spent the last 5 days. We have been in meetings all week long for the IMB's Annual Mission Team Meeting (AMTM). It has definitely been an interesting week - I have learned a lot about this organization and the restructuring that's currently going on. So much of the financial and logistical information is over my head. It has definitely opened my eyes to the reality of being a full-time missionary; it's not as romantic as one might think. I truly have been so blessed and encouraged to be able to spend some quality time with the other missionaries serving in southern Africa. It has been incredible to be able to hear their stories; both their struggles and victories are a beautiful testament to God's provision and faithfulness. I have been blessed by their humility and the strength of their faith.

It's also really been beautiful to see the sense of family that is evident among the missionaries here. It seems as if I have had a small glimpse into what Christ was talking about in Mark 10:29-31 when he says, "Yes, I assure you that everyone who has given up house or brothers or sisters or mother or father or children or property, for my sake and for the Good News, will receive now in return a hundred times as many houses, brothers, sisters, mothers, children, property - along with persecution. And in the world to come that person will have eternal life. But many who are the greatest now will be least important then, and those who seem least important now will be greatest then."

Overall, it has been such an awesome week! We have been able to catch up with our Hands-on friends that we met at orientation. It has been great to hear about what God has done in their time in Botswana and Pietermaritzburg. Sometimes the stories that we hear from the mission field can become commonplace, but I have found myself overwhelmed with the goodness of the Lord and what he's doing on this continent. I truly stand amazed!!!

My time here is so very short... I only have 6 weeks left! That does not at all seem possible! Please continue to pray for us in these remaining weeks - we definitely have some tough things ahead. Pray that we will continue to walk in the Spirit and look to the Lord in all things!

Sizobonana!

Jarah

p.s. The elections are being held in South Africa this Wednesday. Our safety should not be a huge concern, but please pray for a peaceful and calm election day!!!

i love you all.