Alive in Africa

We’re in Uganda! Hallelujah.

This might be short because I am in an internet cafe trying to do 10 things at once while I have internet.

We arrived at Entebbe on Tuesday night and were greeted by our good friend Steve Hoffman and the rest of the crew (a Pastor Robert, and David “camera man”). Our first day was spent in Kampala, the capital of Uganda. We did some things in the city then ministered at a local church in the evening. Devon and I had short chance to share about our journey, then Steve preached (fire!!). We had an opportunity to pray for the congregation afterward. It was a great first day, and we met tons of great people.

On Thursday we (Devon, Steve, Robert and I) made our way to Busi Island, an island of about 13,000 people on Lake Victoria, one of the biggest lakes in the world. We went on a big wooden boat powered by a small motor. Busi was an amazing experience for both of us. We were there to visit a local school, spend some time with the kids, give some treats to them, and do ministry with some of the locals. The children were beautiful, and on our first visit to them they greeted us and sang songs for us. It was such a moving, emotional moment. They sang with one voice and with passion, worshiping the Father. Steve, Devon and I introduced ourselves and did a short skit of David and Goliath, made up on the fly (I, Nielsen, was of course Goliath). It was beautiful time, and I was once again reminded why I am here. Throughout the day we met many of the teachers and workers at the school, and the hospitality was fantastic. They know how to treat guests here in Africa, especially with food! Anyway, in the evening we had a chance to share at a Bible study held at the school. Steve, Devon, and myself had a chance to share. It was stretching and good. God is teaching us how to go beyond our comfort zones! A great day in Busi.

Yesterday was wet and rainy, so we spent a lot of time fellowshiping indoors (I love the relationship centered mentality here). We were able to see every individual class and they all sang us songs, it was fantastic. Some of our friends at the school took us around the island for a little, and afterward it was time to pack up and say goodbye. We took the boat back as the sun was setting over the lake, a perfect way to end our time. Devon and I were extremely blessed during our time there, and God has been working on our hearts constantly.

Tonight, believe it or not, we are going on public radio here in Kampala! Steve set it up and we will be going live late tonight to share and answer questions. We’re not sure what to expect but it should be interesting to say the least. We’ll be doing some local ministry this weekend then head up north to Gulu, where we will be doing some more ministry. We’ll be heading back to Kampala late next week.

I’m leaving out some details and some of the amazing people we’ve met already, but I hope you can be encouraged through what I have been able to share in this short time. I’m definitely rushing! Stay updated, although I’m not sure when I’ll able to share next.

Lastly, I must say Uganda is beautiful, and the people here are beautiful. It is going to be an incredible time in East Africa, and we feel so blessed to be here. This is our home for now (I’m even learning some dialect!). God is good my friends.

Be blessed. We love and miss you all.

Sincerely, The Sons of Thunder