Saturday, January 26, 2008

Life back in Uganda


It is GOOD to be back! The pictures are of a recent feast we celebrated with the staff, it was traditional Buganda meal where we all learned proper local customs. (well maybe not, can't seem to upload pics) We are finally fully unpacked and getting back into the swing of things here in Uganda. We truly enjoyed our time home, but likewise we are glad to be home.(If that makes any sense?) It has been interesting getting settled again, being reminded of how different life is in the U.S. Last weekend I attended our first burial since we returned and I was deeply saddened by the situation I found there. Usually when someone dies they don’t burry the same day, but they spend one night before the actual burial. People come from all over and stay at the house mourning with the family, they will sleep here, there, just about anywhere they can lay a matt. Well for non-Christians it usually means a night of drinking as the people seek to fill their stomach and keep occupied. What we found was the aftermath of that. The total lack of peace amongst the family was disheartening. A fight nearly broke out as people quarreled amongst them selves as they were pouring stones and cement on top of the grave. The priest conducting the ceremony struggled to read his passages as people shouted and quarreled. What is life without the peace and love that God offers us? I was reminded of the fact that this is why we do what we do. Helping people gain understanding of what God purposed for all of us. To bring peace and hope to people who know none. To bring comfort to those who suffer and joy to those who are mourning. To aid the fatherless know the Father heart of God.