Hello all my people!!!
Two days ago I got home from Burundi, and in two days I leave for South America!!! My mind is all over the place, so I’m going to try to take this slow. First: Burundi.
It was such a blessing to get to go back to Burundi again this year. I went back to visit the same place I was at for 4 months in 2019. Seeing all the little kids I taught was a little weird. Some have grown up more than I could have imagined, and some look the exact same. I also got to see the missionary family I lived with during my time there. This country and people truly hold a special place in my heart. The team I went with was four other guys- three of which I’ve known for a long time. We went around praying for all kinds of things. The Spirit of God was moving so strongly every day we were there. One day in a field, we saw four people come to salvation. At a church on Sunday, people were receiving Christ and others were being baptized in the Holy Spirit. I’m not even sure where to go with this after that statement… God is just so good. I can’t even think about my favorite part of the trip. There’s just too much to choose from! One day we were in the medical clinic, and God’s presence came down. We prayed over sick people, healthy people, doctors, even the land where they’re building a new maternity wing. God is moving in places you’ve never even heard of. When I first left there, I thought it would be long time until I was back, but it was less than a year. This time when I was leaving, I didn’t know whether it would be a long time or short time- just a “see you later”. I can’t wait to see my second family again.
Also on a random note: While I was in Africa, one of my back teeth broke three different times. Thank the Lord that I was able to get into a dentist in such short notice for them to fix it. At first I thought it was terrible timing, but then I realized that it’s the best timing possible!
Now I leave for South America in two days!!! God has been so faithful in providing both the plan and the means. I had no intention of doing something like this even in September, and then it was my next big goal just a few days later. When God tells you to do something, you can be sure He will make the way for you to get there too. Never in my life did I think I would have to fund raise $10,000, much less in two short months. But He made a way. People stepped up in incredible ways. Whatever God is calling you to do, He will make a way for it to happen. If you don’t know what He’s calling you to do, just ask. He’s been waiting for you to ask Him for a long time now.
Thank you so much everyone for supporting me. There’s absolutely no way I could have done this by myself. Your prayer and encouragement keeps me going strong. SO excited to go!!!
-Matthew
