Straight from Swaziland

Hope

2010-03-30T14:46:00.001-05:00

I've been thinking about hope a lot lately. God has spoken some things to my heart which are still in my future. God's word is true and God is faithful. I have hope that despite transition, feeling a bit lost, and struggling to find my place that God is in control. I know that we win and that eternal joy awaits me. The picture of the ending helps me push through the present. I've realized I need to embrace God's promises with faith. I know that it will take patience and only hope can help generate the faith and love I need for this journey. God's love brings us to the valley so that we can know the joy of the mountain top. Yet as I travel further through life through more valleys and more mountain tops I begin to realize something. Our joy is in who travels with us. Thank you Emmanuel, God with me, Christ inside of me, Holy Spirt who guides me. I have hope, glory of Christ in me! Freedom!

2005 Journal

2010-01-25T21:32:00.004-06:00

Found this journal entry from 2005...kind says what was on my heart before Africa. My time in Swaziland reaffirmed my belief that true change cannot be legislated or argued. Transformation is from God, change happens inside out....let me know your thoughts, enjoy:

3/6/2005 - Journal Entry from Senior Year of College

"Just finished watching motor cycle diaries and I feel struck by the story told. I can't help but feel a connection and affinity for Ernesto 'Che' Guevara and his yearning for a revolution. I am struck with another thought though, that his energy was wasted by trying to fight injustice through social and political channels. I believe that the revolution needs to be God. The only thing that can right this world is God himself. Jesus Christ was a revolutionary of his time and continues to be today. If I ever want to do anything to better the world it is to bring the Good News to the nations. Lord, help me not to get caught in the Villanova and COS bubble. Lord, help me ot be passionate about changing the world, hep me to bring you into the world. God I pray that you change me in a revolutionary way and that your love will overflow out of me into other people. Clear my mind and empty me of all that is unnecessary...then fill me up with your Spirit. Lord, I offer myself as your hands and feet. Ready me to serve you in Africa but also in all the days of my life."

Saying Goodbye

2009-12-16T03:28:00.003-06:00

It's tough to say goodbye...it seems like my life is all about goodbyes. The funny thing is that I need this move, I really feel like it is time to move on from Swaziland. I do not know how to explain it but I have peace in my bones about it.

I'll miss people, that is for sure. It's been harder on me to see people's reactions to my moving. I have come to realize that it will affect and impact people. That's tough...I've been through this before but some of the people my moving will affect have not. I know they will be ok but there is no way of explaining...i guess only experience and time can.

Here are some of the faces I am saying goodbye to.

Gcinile

2009-11-23T05:39:00.002-06:00

So Karl and I had some visitors this past week. Nhlanhla and Gcinile spent the night at our home after some family problems forced them out of a relatives house for the night. Nhlanhla went to school and left Gcinile in the care of Karl and I. It was an interesting adventure. Karl and I are not schooled in the finer arts of taking care of two year olds. Anyhow, she's a cutie and they've got a bright future ahead of them...i believe that and because our God is faithful!

CLINGING

2009-10-27T04:07:00.004-05:00

Lately I've had a lot of people around me lose people that are close to them. I've heard of many struggles and of many heartbreaks. There have been many relatives facing illness and death lately. I guess this is part of growing up and aging. Death is not fun but for those with hope in Christ it is true healing. No more pain, no more tears...

I've been encouraged by Jeremiah 13. It shows that our true purpose is to cling to God. We are meant to cling to God – Jeremiah 13:11 – Listen to God, do not be proud, we are meant to cling to him, he is central, oh that we would make him central.

We are going to face storms in life but we can find peace in Christ. We can cling to God and his loving arms will embrace us. We are but foreigners here on this earth.

40 Days of Prayer 0001

2009-08-13T04:57:00.001-05:00

Let's pray, let's lay the groundwork for a generation changed, transformed, metamorphosis

http://fortydays.childrenscup.org - join us!

YouTube Life 09

2009-07-24T04:53:00.001-05:00

Check out some pictures of my life and my ministry from the first 6 months of 2009

Open Spaces

2009-07-21T11:49:00.002-05:00

What to say... I've been hearing, learning, listening to a lot of good stuff lately. Truth like the importance of accountability, the vastness of God's ability, the power in God's grace, the beauty of God, the joy that is waiting on our faith, and so much more. Good stuff, need to apply it to my life. I'm hoping to take a little trip away next month to dive deep into what God has been whispering to me. I've got to get away, not sure why but feeling a bit run down...dare I say suffocated in Swaziland the past couple months.

I've been here for three years, its weird to think. I think I've accumulated pain from seeing people come and go, come and go that inside I'm just feeling a bit done right now. It's also made me question our programs a bit. Not that what we're doing is bad but is it creating dependence, is it sustainable, if it is not all sustainable...is that bad. In this changing world, is support from the United States the way forward? What about the Asian church and the European Church? I have many questions and it feels like its all too much to just answer. So, I will head for the mountain, I will head for the open spaces where simplicity and God reign. Oh, God reigns everywhere but in the open spaces I know in such greater clarity the sovereignty of God. I understand my place, God's place and the place of our problems/opportunities. I challenge you that reads this...find your place where you see and hear God clearly. Schedule your time there, get into the deep things in your heart and let God heal, guide, encourage and inspire you...that's what I'm doing!

God's Movement

2009-07-16T09:39:00.002-05:00

A Sacred Moment; Beautiful and Painful were the two words that came to mind as I reflected on my time with the Courageous in Christ youth this past weekend. One of our girls lost her mother. The funeral was Friday night. The youth leaders led the following Saturday's youth program.

The youth leaders had the girl, Phumzile, sit in the middle as the rest of us circled around her. They sang over Phumzile and then prayed for her. We started a second song with tears welling up in almost everyone's eyes. Ten of the girls lost it, grabbed one another and started crying. Nosmilo entered the circle and just put her arm around Phumzile. It was terribly painful and yet God was there healing hearts. So many of our youth have lost one or both parents. They shared Phumzile's pain, they sang hope over her, they felt the deep pain she was feeling and they wrapped their arms around her. It was a beautiful and it was terrible. God was there, he brought peace, he showed me that hope, love and healing will win. The youth have suffered much but now they are able to minister such deep love to one another. This is the body of Christ, this reflects God's purpose for the body...

Been Thinking...

2009-07-14T05:22:00.003-05:00

Lately I have had some time to think and take life in. It has been good. Slowing down has reminded me of the faithfulness of God. I've been a bit sick the past 6 weeks as has a bunch of the Children's Cup staff. Two weeks ago I got on a Mountain Bike and I headed out to Mlilwane Nature Reserve. I found an amazing spot to ride on the crest between three mountain peaks. It is far removed from the rest of the park where people, cars and even animals congregate. God spoke to me, he spoke to the deep parts of me. God reminded me that indeed He, God...Creator...Maker, loves me deeply. I've been praying for the past 10 months that God would wake up my heart. That I'd live fully alive. Something broke that day on the mountain. Yeah I've been on and off sick the last two weeks but a heaviness is gone. Life seems to contain such possibility again. I am awake to the Glory of God that truly does fill the earth.

I don't want to play Christianity, I don't want to play church...I don't want to just survive, I don't want to live fearfully (oh and without knowing it we are all living in some kind of fear that holds us back)...I want ZOE!! Yeah that's not some hot and awesome girl that I've found. ZOE in Greek stands for Life, Life as God has life...full life, joyful, on mission, you know that thing Thoreau talked about, the marrow...yeah that's what I am after.

to be continued...

A Wrap Up Video of Go Global in Africa

2009-06-23T12:05:00.001-05:00

HPC African Mission '09 Recap from Paul Charbonnet on Vimeo.

Inside of Me

2009-06-19T09:18:00.005-05:00

God’s been opening up my heart recently. He has shown me my need for people. I think as a young man one receives many messages both obvious and subtle telling you that you need to stand on your own two feet and that asking for help is weak. In my head I knew that this was contrary to the Word of God but I still lived in fear and pride…standing as a lone ranger.

Through sickness, reading the living word and recognizing my own limitations God has been slowly working this out of me. Truth be told, no one has it all together all of the time. I need God but the truth is that a lot of the time God works through people. To be God’s instrument of reaching is fine but to be loved by God through others has traditionally been unnerving to me. It’s to admit weakness, need, dependence…on God but more troubling on others is difficult. It’s healthy though, it’s being real about ourselves and our situation.

Kb made an interesting comment the other day. He said, “eish, you Americans do not know how to receive a gift. Immediately when or right after receiving the gift you go out or begin to plan to buy a gift for the person who gave you the gift. You treat gifts like a transaction; you need to learn to simply receive.” Yeah, so I have lots to learn, I need to learn that when God is reaching out to me I can just receive. I can admit need and let him through friends, family and strangers fill that need. Lots to learn…

Pastor’s Conference

2009-06-16T09:05:00.004-05:00

- one of the pastors on an outreach

My thoughts…May 27th & 28th we held a Pastor’s Conference. Over 300 church leaders from over 100 churches came out to the two day conference. It was amazing to see the response and hunger of the Pastors in Southern Africa. Go Global sent over teams of people to help pull off the first ever Go Global Southern Africa Pastor’s Conference. Anyways that’s the context, here are my thoughts…

Amazing, beyond what we could think of 4 years ago. I stood with Nathie Hlatshwayo at the back of a room as over 300 church leaders admitted weakness, cried out repentance, sang out true worship to the Most High. We started in a little office with a couple CarePoints. How did this come about…it’s beyond us. I stood with Nathie half crying and half smiling. My mind was filled with thoughts of how faithful the Lord is, how he will work out things for the good of those who love him. My heart was filled with joy and sadness as I admitted that this was beyond what I really believed God for…he was faithful where I often lose faith.

Ok. Context again; Nathie and I were some of the first guys to work with Children’s Cup. Nathie and I shared a small backroom office with no windows and an overloaded desk. It felt like an old garage that need to be cleaned out for some time. Anyways…Cup entered Swaziland 5 years ago. Ben worked zealously and then Nathie, Daran and I joined him. We worked hard to get the local church involved. Then we lost hope, we stopped praying, we stopped trying to involve the local church. A lot has happened and then this year God put it on our hearts again to reach out to the local church…

Over 100 churches represented, the leaders learning about serving then heading out to actually practice it in communities, cities, homesteads and CarePoints. We had sort of given up on the church getting involved. We had sort of written off the local church. But God, But God!!!! Wow, it is true that in our own strength nothing of consequence can truly happen…but with God the impossible, the impossible is possible. Nathie and I stood in silence, tears sliding down our faces, smiles curving upwards and joy welling in our hearts as we watched our God at work.

Hey People

2009-06-09T10:10:00.003-05:00

So...the last month and a half have been crazy. The truth is that God has been at work in a great way. Right now my Mom's visiting and the Sister In-Law (Colleen) was here...check out this pic:

Updates coming....

Bomake Camp!

2009-05-18T03:22:00.002-05:00

Please check out the video of our recent cooks camp. Jacci, Nellie & Karabo did a great job building into the lives of about 100 volunteer cooks. It was a huge blessing and the atmosphere at the CarePoints is greatly changed. If we touch these ladies, they in turn will help show the love of God to the precious children that come to the CarePoints. It was a really cool event, check out the video:

Bomake Camp

Servin it Up!

2009-04-16T03:46:00.002-05:00

CarePoint Youth Serve Day

SERVOLUTION IN SWAZILAND!

Bracket Love

2009-04-07T02:45:00.002-05:00

So I haven 't seen the last three NCAA tournaments. I decided to put together a couple of brackets on ESPN.com in order to pay attention to this tournament a bit. So having not seen any games this year I went ahead to pick my winners.

My Entries

NAME	GROUP	PTS	PCT	RNK
pconti02 1	Create or Join a Group	1770	100.0	144

That is right, number 144 out of over 4.5 million entries. Not bad if I do say so myself. Hate the game, not the playa....hahahah

Strip it off!

2009-03-25T12:28:00.004-05:00

^{Hebrews 12:1-3 Do you see what this means-all these pioneers who blazed the way, all these veterans cheering us on? It means we'd better get on with it. Strip down, start running- and never quit! No extra spiritual fat, no parasitic sins. Keep your eyes on Jesus, who both began and finished this race we're in. Study how he did it. Because he never lost sight of where he was headed-that exhilarating finish in and with God-he could put up with anything along the way: Cross, shame, whatever. And now he's there, in the place of honor, right alongside God. When you find yourselves flagging in your faith, go over that story again, item by item, that long litany of hostility he plowed through. That will shoot adrenaline into your souls!}

This is an awesome verse, its cool how the message breaks it down a bit. Man, what 'ministry', what distraction, what comfort, what relationship, what work, what hobby is keeping me from Jesus. What is keeping me from pressing in, from running the race?

Take a minute, don't settle for a little bit of God. It's not a contract, it's a relationship...do I truly hunger after God. Do I hunger after more of Jesus? Good questions, need to check myself.

Another roomate goes

2009-03-06T04:18:00.002-06:00

We at the Pad (or my favorite - The Hacienda) had the opportunity to have Matt's father with us for three weeks. He is a really cool guy and we enjoyed his stories and cooking. He headed back to Oregon last week. Just wanted to share a picture of all the guys who live at the Pad.

School Fees

2009-02-05T01:33:00.005-06:00

It has been a crazy couple of weeks. I have been running around like a madman trying to help different CarePoint kids get into school. The Swazi educational system is a bit crazy. The students must pay school fees which is a significant portion of most Swazi's income. This is a real strain for our CarePoint kids because they come from extremely poor families.

The youth have it tough in Manzini because it is extremely hard to find a place in school. High schools are overcrowded in Manzini and often even if you come up with the money the school turns students away. This forces young people that do not have money to find a way to travel anywhere between 10km - 30km to school. The students pass their Grade 7 (high school entrance exam) exam but still cannot find decent schools to go to. It is stressful. This is repeated in Form 4 where students take a Junior Certificate Exam. Often if you do not do well on this exam your school will kick you out in favor of other students. This is frustrating because the students pass the exam but still fail to retain a spot in their school, forcing them to look again.

Finally the last observation I can make is that the timing of this process is terrible. The Grade 7 exam results come out 1 and 1/2 weeks before the first year of High School starts. This puts enormous strain on parents, school administration, students and espcially the school secretaries.

Having said all this, God has been good and most the kids that I'm aware of have found a place in school. I also realize that a school system that lacks money cannot function very well. Between school shortages, teacher shortages and other obstacles the Swazi school system has to fight a lot of negative factors in order to educate students. Hopefully it will improve as more dialogue begins.

If you'd like to help Children's Cup send kids to school please go to the Cup Website and designate the money for 2009 Project: Cup Kid to School or send a check to PO Box 400, Prairieville, LA 70769. Love y'all thanks!

Preaching in Mozi

2009-01-12T08:43:00.005-06:00

So I was blessed with the opportunity to preach at Healing Place Church - Nkobe this past weekend. I felt pretty comfortable up there. I shared about getting Closer to God...I highlighted that our main objective in life is to seek, worship, abide in Him. The truth is that when we seek God, He takes care of the rest. It's a trust issue for most of us. I am reminded about how imperfect I am but I thank God that he uses people like me. I am but a broken vessel that somehow God uses. Check out some pics:

Investing in People

2009-01-09T11:38:00.003-06:00

I've been realizing lately that I am kind of hands off with people. I kind of do my own thing and let other people do there own thing. I'm beginning to realize that I can function ok but often I need to get more involved with the lives, struggles, questions of people around me. Currently in a couple different scenarios I am invested in peoples lives...in their issues. It's a worthwhile place to be even if I don't exactly enjoy the messiness of it. It is actually the place I need to be if I really want to be an agent of change and vessel of transformation. That's why I am in Africa right? Well I'm learning that its in all relationships that I need to dive in. I need to dive in to the reality instead of being comfortable with the superficial. Pray for me in this...I'm returning to a place that I long to a step away from. Being invested means being hurt but it also means so much more. Pray for me to have courage in this area.

Love y'all who read...hoping to do a much better job in 2009 than I did the last half of 2008.

My Four Weeks

2008-12-23T05:44:00.004-06:00

My life for the past four weeks has been crazy. I've been to Mozambique twice. I've been privileged to be a volunteer at five Christmas Parties that saw over 5,000 orphaned and vulnerable children have one of their best memories ever. I've been to South Africa twice, to drop off Jordan and to take the youth on a fun day to Badplaas...which is not really a bad place, it's actually quite good! Natural hotsprings, water slides, go karts, etc. I've been to camp across the country in Mlawula Game Reserve. I've helped run a youth absitinence day in the community of Ka Khoza. I've help lead worship at CarePoints, churches and in houses. I've spent myself...because I look into the children's, the poor's, the youth's eyes and I see Jesus. I'm not perfect, I'm in need of Jesus every day. But I know this, I will and strive and empty myself out so that I can serve the least of these...My life is blessed, God is good and with God lives are being changed.

YES I WAS THAT CLOSE, EISH, I CAN SEE AN IRIS

SOME OF THE YOUTH LEADERS FROM THE CAREPOINTS

New House

2008-12-04T02:55:00.003-06:00

So before Jordan headed back to the States for the Holidays we moved into a new house. It's a cool pad that will work out great for us boys. Take a look!

What are you living under?

2008-11-28T07:42:00.000-06:00

I’ve found out lately that I can often live oblivious to the battle going on around me and in me. People often live under oppression or under attacks and do not even realize it. Today I prayed a simple prayer. I prayed that the spirit of apathy, depression and heaviness to leave in the name of Jesus…yeah, it even sounded a bit weird coming out of my mouth. The crazy truth of it is that after I prayed that I feel a joy that I’ve not experienced in weeks. God tells us that we are in a warzone…yet I often live in such ignorance. To be truly free, to be live as we are intended to live. Do we assume that our depression, our anxiety, our anger, our lust, our discouragement, our fear is normal? Do we live wrapped up in unnecessary chains, de we often live under attack and think everything is normal. No more, no more, no more.

Bayside

2008-11-05T02:49:00.005-06:00

Sarah and I had the privilege of hosting a team of nine people from Bayside Community Church. The team was comprised of a group from Bayside's Children's Ministry. We had a blast. The team spent the majority of their time at Ngwane Park CarePoint. They blessed our teachers, cooks and children. Bayside left behind an anticipation and expectation of what God is and will continue to do at Ngwane Park. I know God worked in their hearts and a piece of them was left behind. It was fun hanging out and it was a blessing to see God work through y'all!

I am Back

2008-10-29T05:09:00.007-05:00

Hey, so yeah, I have not really used my computer during the month of October. I apologize for the lack of communication. Things have been busy as usual but also I've needed some time away from routine.

I'm excited to get back to bloggin, emailing and all things Tech oriented...I went on a trip to Zimbabwe and was blown away. Our God is a big God and in the midst of such suffering there is such life. The people at Oasis of Life Church in Bulawayo are amazing. God's presence and favor is with them. They've helped plant nine churches in the last year. Their impact is exponential. Their worship is beautiful and true. Their lives are truly a witness to the world. They were to me...Check out some pictures:

ZIMBABWE

2008-10-01T23:42:00.003-05:00

Hey, heading to Zimbabwe today with Ben, Mark and Zinty. It should be a fun and eye opening trip for all of us. I'm excited to see Pastor Dixon and his church on their turf. Should be awesome!

Please be praying that we travel safe, thanks!

Quiet

2008-09-16T04:53:00.001-05:00

God's been a bit quite lately. It means that I must stay faithful to His word and persevere as I seek Him. Its good, its frustrating but its good. God is with us, sometimes he is quiet in order to build our faith!

Showing some love!

2008-09-11T06:43:00.004-05:00

Here are some pictures of the people I get to do life with. I probably do not appreciate them enough or tell them how much I care for them.

Here are some of the Cup girls - they are awesome women of God and Ma' Sistas! Love y'all!

Mark & Kay - What an incredible young couple who love the Lord so much. Such a passion for young people and for God!

lil time away

2008-08-30T03:08:00.004-05:00

In Mozambique for a couple days away...waiting on God, resting in God!

...God loves me, God loves me...let me never come to grips with this yet let me receive that transforming love!!

God is with me, God longs for me to spend time with him. Give me some Jesus this day! Working on pictures...

TRUE CAREPOINTS, YES!!

2008-08-25T05:15:00.000-05:00

Look around, Look around

See what’s been done

See what is happening

Look around, Look and see

The beauty, the life

It’s come through me…

- God spoke this to me the other day, pretty cool

Lately, I’ve been able to see the beauty of the CarePoints. At Ngwane Park the other day I just sat back and watched the activity of the CarePoint for about 10 minutes. It was amazing, there was such electric joy filling the property. Certain CarePoints have truly become what we/God intended them to be…ok, they are on their way to become what God intended. The CarePoints are so much more than a building, a plate of food or a classroom. They are a community, they are places of love. The relationships, the joy, the knowledge of God is amazing. The other day I hung out with the youth at Makholweni and it was so cool to see the relationships they had amongst one another. It is so cool to see the true community developed at the CarePoints. There is a genuine love for life at the CarePoints which I’m not so sure is anywhere else in these communities.

Mark, Kay, Jessie, Shelly and I held a volleyball clinic the other day for the girls from Logoba and Zombodze. We had an awesome time together and the girls improved a lot in just two hours. I drove the Lagoba girls back to their CarePoint in a Kombi. The girls were singing the whole ride from Zombodze back to Lagoba. The boys were there to meet the girls and the whole group of them continued to sing, dance and be the embodiment of joy. It was amazing, as I left and drove back to the highway I watched the people walking toward the CarePoint. In their faces I saw this crazy expression on their faces, “what the heck is going on at that CarePoint, why are they so happy, what do they feed them there” It’s so cool to see the joy that only God can bring in these young people. God is establishing his presence at the CarePoints and it is transforming lives.

This spoke to me, this let me know that what we’re doing over here is more than just feeding mouths and continuing the cycle of poverty, death and hopeless. No, no our kids are infected…our kids are infected with amazing hope, that hope that is Jesus!

Sheep

2008-08-06T04:59:00.002-05:00

So I was sitting in Pastor Ron's class the other day and we were talking about sheep. God tells us that we are his sheep and he is our Sheppard.

I was then thinking, what if we really grasp this. What if we truly understood that we are sheep.

I wrote down a couple of thoughts...sheep are dumb, sheep belong to a flock, sheep need guidance, sheep need protection, sheep are lost without a Sheppard...hmm, what if we grasp that we really do not have any idea, that we are lost without God, that we are dumb and need guidance. The world can tell us that we know everything, that we have it all together, that we have it all figured out yet God still tells us we are sheep. I think some of the key to believing this is living life. Our best intentions can never bring us true success, the kind that lasts and fills up the depth of your soul. We are sheep...in a way it kind of sucks, we're stupid but in a way it is amazing, it frees us to surrender to the loving hand of our Sheppard. It frees us of having to figure it all out, honestly it kind of frees of the burden that it all depends on us...it reduces life to this...yes I will follow or no I will not...yes I will trust or no I will not...I'm a sheep, I'm dumb and go my own way some times but in my heart I say yes I will follow

Zakhele sporting some shoes!

2008-07-29T05:05:00.004-05:00

Hey! I have been able to hang out at my CarePoints lately! We were able to give all the children at Zakhele a pair of shoes. This is huge, these kids usually have a pair of flip flops or shoes that are two sizes to small and thats it. During winter time it is an unbelievable blessing to have shoes that keep your feet warm. Swazis love shoes, the men where the craziest white shoes, animal hair sandals and all other kinds of interesting footwear. So yeah, the CarePoint kids are now rocking some of the best looking shoes in town! Thanks to all who helped provide these children with an unbelievable blessing! Check out the pics of the awesome day.

40 Days

2008-07-24T03:33:00.003-05:00

Its back! 40 Days of Prayer for the children of Africa! Are you in? Will you step it up and join with thousands of others to bring about a move of God in the lives of African children? Ask according to His name or His will and it shall be given...let's do this! Check out the website!

Sportin in Swazi

2008-07-15T09:48:00.003-05:00

We had a fun day of sports in Manzini with about 200 youth. It was awesome! Football matches, chairball, dancing and dramas filled the day. The one crazy part of the day was trying to feed the 200 youth, this is not like America where kids pack a lunch or even have lunch money. Despite the logistical challenge, we pulled it off well! Praise God, what a day!

Wait, Christmas time???

2008-06-24T10:41:00.004-05:00

Samaritan's Purse is an awesome organization that reaches people all over the world. Children's Cup has been privileged with giving out Christmas boxes at our CarePoints. Check out the pics...Christmas in July baby! (Hey, its cold now...)

thoughts

2008-06-19T12:46:00.002-05:00

How much do I look at people to only see resources or productivity? How much do I look at a person's perceived effectiveness and then make a value judgment? Do I ever just treat people and value people for being just that, people. The motivations that move me, how impure they can be.

What a weekend 3!

2008-06-09T07:54:00.005-05:00

- so after church we headed to the Swaziland national team world cup qualifier against Togo. We didn't get tickets, that didn't stop some people though, they pushed down a fence and ran in...even more amazing is that Swaziland won, they are now on top of their group for world cup qualification. We'll be at the Zambia game!

- Jordan and I headed out to Mbekelweni, future sports/camp/intern & CarePoint facility...it is beautiful! We also want to make some mountain bike trails, loads of potential!

Headed back to the house to relax. We had a cookie mix from the States! Check out our African Microwave we use to melt butter! (disclaimer, there are microwaves in Africa, it is just that we don't have one)

What a weekend 2!

2008-06-09T07:40:00.003-05:00

Start of the IMVELO Mountain Bike Race - 33Ks

Mantenga Lodge for a late lunch after the race

- At Courageous in Christ Youth, Makholweni...check out Lelo bringing the heat!

What a weekend!

2008-06-09T07:31:00.002-05:00

On the way to Generation 2911 Youth with the boys!

At Ngwane Park, Generation 2911 Youth baby!

Camping with Jordan, some bikes and the Mac! nice!

Daniel Mahlalela

2008-06-02T01:36:00.004-05:00

- Daniel with Allen Iverson at HPC Mozi

Daniel turned 24 years old this past week. He has a hunger for the things of God! Daniel is technology oriented. He finished a two year computer course and hopes to one day own a business so that he can do and invest in ministry.

Daniel comes from a pretty cool heritage. His father, Joaquim, has worked with Dave Ohlerking (the founder of Children's Cup) for over 20 years. Joaquim works in Mozambique and commutes back to Swaziland to meet with and take care of his family. The family moved to Swaziland back in the early 80's during the civil war in Mozambique.

Daniel has a voice and is quickly becoming an outstanding worship leader. God has good plans for him as he grows into a responsible young man.

Mountain Biking

2008-05-26T03:03:00.003-05:00

Had an awesome experience this past Saturday. Jordan and I went out to Mlilwane Game Park for some mountain biking. I just brought Jordan's sweet bike from the United States and I was able to borrow a friend's bike.

What an amazing setting for mountain biking! Jordan an I were chugging up a hill only to see a herd of Wildabeast running across the trail. A bit later we came across a herd of Zebras who were content to just look at us as we passed by them. Finally Jordan and I spent over an hour climbing a mountain. Oxygen deprived we looked out in amazement at how far we came and how beautiful Swaziland is! Then the fun began, Jordan and I raced down the mountain on some single track. Narrowly missing rocks, stumps and trees we made it down the mountain in an exhilarating 10 minutes. One fall each and no real wounds between us I can safely say, we had an awesome day...then that night we were able to sing, play, dance and pray with the youth of Makholweni!

Children's Cup Kids Camp 08'

2008-05-22T10:55:00.001-05:00

Check it out, awesome stuff! God is faithful!

God’s Economy vs. Economics

2008-05-09T10:24:00.001-05:00

I’m interested in and have been pondering over a couple of things that have to do with my degree in Economics.

God tells us that the sparrows do not worry over food and clothing

Economic theory teaches us about the “law” of scarcity. Scarcity means there is never enough to go around to everyone, we have infinite wants and needs but only finite resources.

How do I reconcile these two different ideas or ideologies? How can there be a God who is Jehovah Jireh (provider) and there be scarcity as evidence by the more than 2 billion people on this planet stuck in poverty.

I have to say that economics as a science is based largely on the principles that we are selfish as human beings. Its accurate and yet somehow I think the economic theories I’ve learned in college are a response or explanation of a broken world. God doesn’t operate in scarcity but we do. Our lack of faith, our spiritual poverty and the way we think (selfishly) make scarcity a reality.

Do I think we need to regulate or redistribute assets from rich to poor…yes and no. To some extent a government can successfully do this through the provision of infrastructure and education to its populace. However, a government seems to fail miserably as it expands its welfare programs. It comes down to a heart and faith issue in both the person in need and the person who is wealthy. You see, often the poor person has something to give but will not…God cannot put more in your hand unless you release what he’s already put there. If people believe that God is in control and truly surrender their money (100%) and time to him then the redistribution of assets and capital will take place outside of government (in the majority of cases) in a more relational context.

Ok, so I’m even confusing myself…see I don’t think government can effectively lift people out of poverty. I think the opportunity should be taken on by people, private programs and churches. The problem is a lot of people say no to taxes but do not say yes to involve themselves and their money in solutions.

So yes scarcity seems to be a reality for most of this world but we must remember that God is above and beyond us. His perception of what’s real and what is truth is beyond what we can see. God has more than enough, he can provide in awesome ways. Remember when it comes to God, Nothing is Impossible!

Wake up to God’s reality, fear not, believe that God will take care of you, free yourself from a scarcity mindset and let your money flow, let your time flow, let your talent flow to the forgotten, the poor, the hurting…in you and through you God’s abundance is alive, its beating with true life, its ready to be unleashed.

Reach n Fuel

2008-05-06T12:32:00.001-05:00

Youth Serving it up! Yeah baby...honestly one of my best days in Africa!

Lelo

2008-05-05T23:11:00.003-05:00

Lelo Dlamini

Lelo is our energy guy. Lelo’s smile is infectious and he is always ready to have a good time. He is an extremely talented dancer…boy can straight up move…and he’s very skilled at putting together relevant dramas. Lelo has been in ministry for 3 years and plans to continue to reach out to the youth of Swaziland.

Lelo is an orphan, both of his parents died before he finished high school. He can relate, he can encourage and he is a living example of the hope that is in Christ. Pray for Lelo to reproduce himself…there are so many hurting youth and not enough Lelos

JFlo

2008-04-30T21:20:00.004-05:00

In Swaziland and in my life things have changed. I went from living by myself to having 5 permanent roommates and a couple of other short term roomies. Over the next couple of days I will introduce you to the people of my life....

...J to the A or Jordan 'JFlo' Flores is from Atlanta, GA. He is an awesome 23 year old guy who was a youth pastor and media man for the Oasis Church before coming over to Swaziland for the year. JFlo is an adrenaline junkie who is in love with God. He's a walking spring of ideas, man has got a new idea every second...love having him around. God is faithful in bringing me a much need single guy to hang out and grow with, check out his blog...

Victoria - The Chicken

2008-04-30T21:13:00.003-05:00

So when my friend Rick was here a couple months ago we purchased a chicken from a roadside market. The chicken eventually assumed the name Victoria after it was decided to keep her around for awhile. Victoria usually pumps out about 1 egg a day...well after moving her from a diet of Chicken Feed to Corn Flakes she stopped producing her eggs. We had a talk with her the other day...and now we're seeing eggs everyday!!!

- look closely

Yebo, Celebration Church!

2008-04-04T06:00:00.001-05:00

Check out a video that my boy Mark made after a week with Celebration Church from Jacksonville, FL!

We had a great time with the Christian Leadership College guys and girls! Thanks so much for impacting us and impacting a generation of youth Africans!

Mozambique

2008-03-20T04:50:00.003-05:00

My interns, Daniel & Lelo, and I headed to Mozambique for the first week of March. Isaac & Carol were in Brazil for two weeks so we helped cover for them. It was Lelo's first time in a country where he did not speak the language. It was cool to see him grow and learn from the experience.

Despite parting with some money, (to the police) we had a good time. We were able to help out with a church service, run a youth program, attend a slammin youth program in Maputo and just help with the ministry at the Nkobe CarePoint.

Check out the pics:

Swazi Youth Outreach 2007

2008-03-05T14:05:00.001-06:00

A little video I threw together awhile back, added a couple newer pics. Jordan has a Mac and I look forward to making more videos using it...windows movie maker just doesn't cut i

What- - Pics from Youth

2008-03-05T13:11:00.003-06:00

I'm flowing now, high speed internet baby!

Zinclay has a big mouth...winning a banana eating contest...she can sing like crazy too!

The boys busting a move, Jayiva Kahle!

Ghetto White Boy African Style!!!

2008-03-05T12:55:00.003-06:00

Yeah, Ghetto Traditional baby! Or more like the Louisiana Boy meets Africa look. Watch out you male models out there....

...at Fikile's daughter's wedding (ok, is that right with the 's?) with Jordan, Michael, Lelo, Daniel, Gugu and Fikile herself. Kind of bad when no one is paying attention to the preacher but instead looking at us...oh well, it was fun! Swazi weddings are notoriously long too so I think everyone enjoyed the entertainment factor we brought. Miss ya Charles!

Lots of updates, lots of things to say

2008-03-03T01:39:00.002-06:00

Hey, I'm in Mozambique and therefore have high speed internet. I'm over here for a week making sure things go smoothly while Isaac is gone. I'm excited about having a week to slow down, reflect and plan. The interns are with me getting their first cross cultural experience! Awesome!

I had my good friend Rick come over for a visit. He observed all aspects of what we do at the CarePoints and he hopes to help raise awareness and support back in the States for Children's Cup. I'm excited about how God is going to use him.

While he was here we got out for a little hiking and we did it in style...south african style baby!

Interns

2008-02-25T02:02:00.002-06:00

So, been off the internet for awhile. We've switched offices, had 37 woman come through Swaziland and a bunch of other things happen. Life and ministry seems exponential these days which is awesome but I'm reminded of the importance of communicating with my dear friends and family who support my ministry through prayer and financial covering.

I've started it! I finally have some African interns that are living with me and sharing life.

Lelo Dlamini has mad dance and drama skills after spending 3 years with Youth for Christ. He has a passion for reaching young people in a relevant way using multiple mediums. He is a footballer and always excited about life. Oh, and by the way he is an orphan as well...kind of cool that God turns around pain in his life to minister to thousands of other orphans.

Daniel Mahlalela is a quiet soul who is on an intense quest to know and seek the face of God. He is an excellent singer and an aspiring bass player. He is heavily involved with the youth in his Church and is the son of Joaquim Mahlalela who has helped plant Children's Cup in Mozambique. Daniel is baller and he has a healthy respect for Michael Jordan which is always a good quality...did I mention I grew up in Chicago...Da Bulls!

God is doing some cool things, I'm excited about this year!

Isaac n Carol

2008-01-31T11:25:00.000-06:00

Check out Isaac and Carol's blog to see what's happening in Mozambique. I've been over there about once a month since I've been back. Love Mozi and love the Williams. Big prawns, beautiful beaches and a ballin Church+CarePoint ministry!

~Isaac claiming to know what fruit this tree will produce

Youth Leaders Retreat

2008-01-31T11:17:00.000-06:00

K, Sorry for the lack of updates. Two weeks ago I hosted a youth leaders retreat. It was an awesome time away with 13 of the youth leaders we have at the CarePoints. We spent the night at the Youth with a Mission house.

The retreat was all about laying the foundation with this first group of leaders. It’s awesome to see the energy and enthusiasm of the young people and young leaders. We talked about studying the bible, their identity in Christ and servant leadership. As much as the stuff we talked about was important it was also important for me to establish deeper relationships with these young people. God’s been reminding me a lot how important relationships are and so I made it an emphasis that we had fun together and share some of who we are with one another.

This is a capable group of leaders, pray that we can establish something great, something that changes lives, something that honors God!

Commmunity

2008-01-14T01:27:00.001-06:00

~ this is a long introspective blog, its good but long...

I want to reflect a little bit on the main things that God spoke to me in 2007. The main thing that sticks out is that faith is lived out in community and with other people. I have moved a lot in my life so I have an ability/tendency/weakness to be able to do life by myself pretty well. I’ve been to movies by myself, I’ve eaten in restaurants by myself and explored the world by myself… “table for one please”, these things scare other people but I’ve found a contentment in being alone…I’m thinking I went from contentment to comfortable and God now needs to rock me out of my comfort. Its tough though because when its just me I get to decide, order, do whatever I want to do but when you are with others you sacrifice, sometimes I wonder is the trade-off worth it. God then reminded me my life isn’t about me, it’s a selfless journey of unconditional love for the sake of His Name.

God really challenged me to seek out community this year and with people that I wouldn’t naturally seek community with. It has been a challenge and there have been a lot of times when I’ve retreated to my solitary ways. Maybe its because I’m American, maybe its because I’m a young single twenty something or maybe its because I’m in Africa as a missionary but there is this underlying tendency in me to associate needing people as a weakness. I’ve discovered in the last year, well I guess I always knew in my soul, that people are a source of strength. Donald Miller puts it like this in his book Blue Like Jazz, “Other people keep our souls alive, just like food and water does with our body.” I’m learning to expose my need for people and flat out ask for friendships. I’m learning to initiate community.

My friend Joy Parker ministered to me a lot this year. Joy loves people. Joy loves annoying, selfish, awkward people. She likes everyone with no agenda. Often those hard/difficult/awkward people turn into awesome people who while still maybe different are great…they reflect God in their unique personalities and open there arms to new people.

My friend Elias in college befriended a weird guy from the University of Washington. This guy said the most inappropriate things all of the time and constantly talked about how horrible life was. He was miserable to be around. Elias was Jesus to him, when everyone else, including to some degree me, pushed this guy even more into isolation, weirdness and desperation…Elias reached out beyond reason going the 2^nd mile to rescue him from self destruction caused by the catalyst arrows of society’s and my own judgment.

The point is that community is messy but it is sacred. It is difficult but it contains true blessings. It is an area of ministry and it acts as ministry to our souls. We need others, we need to be needed, and we can’t go far unless we go together. I’m unlearning that strength is not needing people and I pray that 2008 is full of friendships, community and selfless love. God let me be interrupted from the efficiency of myself and my ways.

…again God reminded me that I often look for community and miss it. I think it looks a certain way with a certain gender, age or group of people. I’m looking for this Patrick Construct of community meanwhile I miss the community God has placed right in front of me…God is still speaking to me on this.

My Christmas Presents

2007-12-31T03:56:00.000-06:00

I found both a Subway and Mexican food while I was in South Africa with my friends. Amazing Christmas presents...

Pics

2007-12-21T03:38:00.000-06:00

- With Daran & Nathie at the Mbabane Christmas Party

-With the Brennan Family and Boiovich (spelling?) Family (+Daran)

They are a new family that are working with Children's Cup. They transfered over from another ministry here in Swaziland. We're excited to have them on board, God is bringing people when we need them...God knows what's up

Alive in SA

2007-12-20T02:00:00.000-06:00

Hello, hello, hello.

I am in South Africa with some friends from Adventures in Missions. Its been fun to get away and hang out with some guys that are my age. We've been exploring with no real agenda and its been great.

The week before I ran around like a chicken with its head cut off at our Christmas Parties. We had over 4,000 children total come out for Christmas parties in Swaziland and Mozambique. I want to say thank you to the team from Celebration Church in Georgetown, TX for coming and being the hands and feet of Jesus.

-Texas Team
- Kids at the Manzini Party

Hope everyone is having a great Christmas season!

IT'S ABOUT WORSHIP

2007-11-21T09:55:00.000-06:00

Sorry to all you blog readers, I’ve been running around like crazy the past two months. I apologize for the lack of blogs…hopefully I’ll be able to update y’all more the next few weeks.

Children’s Cup had a time of prayer and worship the other day. A big thank you to my boy Caleb Lange for leading worship for us. Check out his blog as he travels the world for the cause of Christ.

God’s really been speaking to me lately about re-focusing my life on him. It is so easy to get busy and leave God behind. Christ needs to be the center of our lives and our ministry.

It was an awesome time of prayer and God has been able to speak a couple things into my life that I really hadn’t slowed down enough to hear. Check out some pics of the night:

Responsible to Tell 2

2007-11-12T00:24:00.000-06:00

2nd story...

...I am 15, my mom died last year, my dad died two years ago. Both of them had HIV even though they announced that it was TB at their funerals. I have 2 younger sisters and 3 younger brothers to look after. We get some food from the World Food Program but we usually do not have enough to eat. My uncle is using our land to grow his own crops. He only gives us a little of that food. I had to drop out of school because we had no money and no food. Only one of my younger sisters is going to school and it is a free school put on by the local church. I feel like I should be doing something, but I don’t know what to do. We look for food, we ask people to help us but we still are hungry. I used to want to become a police man, now I just want to feed my brothers and sisters. It is such a responsibility; I don’t know how we will survive the upcoming dry season.

Inner thoughts

2007-10-14T13:04:00.000-05:00

A lot of times people ask what my heart is...to rephrase better in essence they ask, "What is the passionate desire of your heart of hearts to do in this life?"

You see I sometimes struggle with this question. Most of the time it all seems fuzzy and I don't really know. Africa is in my heart but it doesn't at least feel the same as the way it bleeds out of other people.

I know God called me back here for two years. I know that it is for his purpose and glory. My heart is to serve God where he's called me...that's it.

Maybe I'm wired differently, but I talk to so many people and they say God broke my heart for this or that (orphans, africa, mozambique, China, Somalia, prostitutes, etc.) and then decided to do something. Instead I went because God asked me to and am relying on him to bring me around, truly, I mean truly embrace this call and deeply love the people of Southern Africa.

I'm following God and am continually needing him to break my heart so I'm truly broken for the people I'm serving, for Southern Africa's orphans. Maybe its just I'm a bit thick skinned or maybe its because I've been in Africa for awhile...but often I ask God for just one thing...the ability to love.

Comments, other's experience??? Does this make sense?

Responsible to Tell

2007-10-10T05:55:00.000-05:00

I’ve realized I have a tendency to downplay the situation in Africa and the children we work with. When I talk to people about what I’m doing it is very matter of factly. We tell people that come to Africa, “now that you’ve seen, you are responsible”. Seeing the children, the poverty, the death and the hopelessness in Africa demands a response. Over the next couple of weeks I am going to be posting short blogs that tell the real story, explain my passion and challenge you.

Here is the first, Imagine with me this often faced reality.

I am a little 12 year old girl, I am sick, I have HIV. The other children at school see that I am sick all of the time. All of the children begin to talk about me, they talk behind my back and say that I have HIV. The children say that I must be having sex with older boys. They accuse me of being stupid for doing such a foolish thing. Little do they know that when I was 6 years old, my uncle raped me. My own mother won’t believe me, how will a whole group of classmates. My mother, that’s another thing. She doesn’t know what to think. She sees that I go to church every week and knows I am a good girl. Yet, I have HIV, she won’t believe that her brother (my uncle) would rape me. I feel dirty, I feel unloved, I feel like I am a burden, I feel misunderstood. I have no friends, the other children have been told to stay away from me. I feel like I have no future, like I have no hope. My life is horrible.

Chicken Story...

2007-10-02T02:44:00.000-05:00

I had one of those only in Africa days. I didn’t have too much to do so I went with Gugu ‘Dynamite’ Dlamini to visit a family that had helped her in a tough situation in 1993. It had been 14 years since she saw this family but God put it in her heart to visit them and thank them.

In 1993 Gugu crossed the country of Swaziland to give her uncle some paperwork and pass a message for her parents. In those days different parts of Swaziland had different holidays and it just so happened that she arrived in Siteki only to find her uncle was not home. Gugu returned to town from her uncle’s empty house only to find that the last bus had already left. She was stuck in Siteki and didn’t know anyone. This young mother and her three children invited her to stay the night at their homestead. Gugu accepted and was blown away by their hospitality. This family that didn’t have clean water or clothes for the children were so warm and so welcoming…the children walked her to the bus station the next day and stayed out in the cold with her until the bus came. Gugu told me she was truly touched by this family and always had it in her heart to go back and find them.

Fast forward to 2007…Gugu, two of the Dynamic children and myself head out to Siteki to try to find this family. We have some general directions from Gugu’s uncle who stays in Siteki. The family had moved to a small town Sitsasweni. There are few places in Swaziland were there are no people…we were on the road past Siteki and finally saw the turn off to Sitsasweni. We must have been on that road for 10 minutes without seeing a single house, homestead or person. Gugu and I were just shaking our heads thinking we were lost or had no hope of finding the family. Then we’re almost hit by a huge almost falling apart bus which comes barreling at us down the small dirt road. Having luckly swerved out of the way we go on encouraged by the bus sighting. One minute later we literally drive through a cattle fence and enter the surprisingly spread out town of Sitsasweni. We ask some local farmers where the family’s homestead is. They tell us to check with the boys at the 2^nd shop in town. Apparently missing the first store we drive right past the 2^nd shop in oblivion. A kilometer down the road we pull up next to two old men (Mukhulus/Madalas) We ask the men where the family lives and they tell us to take the 2^nd left. They are laughing and ask Gugu if she’s trying to help me find the white volunteer. They don’t believe that we want to see the family but it must be me chasing after the white girl...we find out later that there is a peace corps volunteer who lives on the homestead.

Anyways, we arrive at the homestead and find out that the children live with their father. We do find the mother though, and she is amazed to see Gugu after all this time. We pray for her and the rest of the family on the homestead. We sat and enjoyed the African hospitality. We sang songs and traded stories. We gave them some gifts of clothing and food before heading out. In response they handed Gugu a chicken…yes a live chicken. So this is my story about how I ended up driving with a chicken flying around in the back of my car. Africa…gotta love it!!

-I realize there are probably a lot of grammmmmatical errors in this, don’t streessss….

Charles has left us

2007-09-24T01:32:00.000-05:00

Charles is heading home today. We’re going to miss him a bunch over here. It’s a sad day but a happy one too. God has called him to Florida and he’s being obedient to that call. I am fully confident that God will work tremendously through him at Bayside Church.

Charles we’ll miss your energy, passion, heart for the lost, love for the orphans, laughs, preaching, friendship, ideas and a whole bunch of other things you brought to the table.

America you’re lucky to have him back. Africa is in his blood and his time here has equipped him to help reawaken a passion for Jesus in the States. Charles, remember the lessons, faces, tears and laughs that the red soil of Africa brought you. Your mission is the same; you’ve just changed time zones. You always like to be on the leading edge of things, maybe we’ll eventually see you out in the Pacific Ocean doing ministry so you can help lead us into a new day, a new dawn of the Kingdom of Heaven on earth. God bless bro!

Youth Programs

2007-09-10T01:52:00.000-05:00

This past Saturday we had our second youth group at the CarePoints. This year we are trying to establish two youth groups that meet every other week at two of the CarePoints. It was a lot of fun hanging out with the youth. The thing that struck me was how easy it was to keep these kids engaged. The other thing that hit me was just how important showing up is. I think if we can get our hearts before God and consistently show up that lives will be changed.

I am tasked with trying to get a youth program started here in Swaziland. I am still seeking God about what exactly that looks like but so far here is the plan.

1-We hope to eventually establish a youth group at all the CarePoints.
2-We'd like to start a sports program that teaches sports and biblical values.
3-We want to establish a regular skills training program that will help equip the youth.
4-We want to have a part time internship in 2008 for Africans.

Pray for God's wisdom and pray that I hear God on this...

Phephile & Nininnia

2007-08-30T05:39:00.000-05:00

I spent yesterday with two precious little girls. I filmed Phephile and Nininnia in an attempt to truly capture their stories. I’m not going to go into details but both girls come from tough to terrible home situations. Volunteer cooks at two CarePoints brought Phephile’s and Nininnia’s situation to Cup’s attention. The girls now live with Miss Peggy, the teacher at our Murray Camp CarePoint. The girls now smile, giggle and talk. They carry a joy that wasn’t there before. They have hope and they know love!

I’m so glad that I get to do this. I am privileged to serve God and witness lives transformed. Check out pictures of these girls who are worth just as much to God as anyone else out there.

~Nininnia is on the left and Phephile is on the right

It’s about love, It’s about obedience, It’s about hope, It’s about justice, It’s about children, It’s about Jesus!!

Invasion 07

2007-08-21T01:42:00.000-05:00

Made it to Swaziland and immediately was helping my boy Charles Young with Invasion 07'. Charles had been organizing a youth event with a couple other ministries in Swaziland.

We had some DJs, some inflatable games including a mechanical bull and our friends Spin the Flava come out. A team from Ireland finished off the event with some praise & worship and a short message. It was a good time...check out the pictures and look for an update at Charles & Kristen's blog in the near future.

IN LONDON

2007-08-14T23:03:00.000-05:00

I've got a long layover in London...but I sit here excited as every to jump on that plane to South Africa. I'm nervous, excited and full of hope at what the next two years will look like! Check out this quote I pulled from an article awhile back:

"The drugs and test kits worth US$6 million per year, brings the total United States contribution to HIV and AIDS prevention, care, and treatment in Zimbabwe to US$31 million, the two governments said."

- Something that makes me proud to be an American. Zimbabwe's leaders make a bunch of noise about 'the West' yet we still reach out to help them. Very cool, very biblical!

Inside me

2007-08-05T11:40:00.001-05:00

I often wonder why God chose me to go to Africa. Why am I called to do this? It might be fear or lack of courage but I often think about how it would be a lot easier to stay in the States. I was raised in America, where independence is mantra but God's called me so far to a life of interdependence. My calling requires me to depend on other people and the church for my food, my clothes, my ability to even do ministry. If I'm honest I hate it but I think some of that might be why God called me to it. It comes down to trust and will I let go of what I can do so that God can do what he does best, the impossible.

I've been blessed with so much, how can I procrastinate or pity my call to Africa. If I really sit back and think about it...I should be running full steam ahead to give all I can to the Jesus who gave me everything. Pray for me, that I might embrace my call, that I might let go of what I think is success.

JUST PRAY! IMPOSSIBLE IS NOTHING FOR OUR GOD!

2007-07-27T08:46:00.000-05:00

40 Days of Prayer!!! Starting August 1st Children's Cup is enlisting tons of people to pray for the beautiful and deserving children of Africa and the world. We need you!! Yes, Cup needs you! Go to our online prayer guide and commit to pray with us for the 40 days.

Join us and stand back amazed at what God will do in response to the prayers and cries of His people!!! Pray loud, pray soft, pray however you want...just pray! Watch out Nike and Adidas I might steal(borrow?) all of your slogans. The Adidas one is great...."Impossible is nothing" (insert: for our God! )

Blogs to Check

2007-07-17T13:20:00.000-05:00

Alright, I need to give a little link love. Here are some blogs that I've been checkin out recently.

http://jpbrumfield.com/ - JP is an awesome guy, he is dedicated to serving anyone and everyone for the purpose of Christ. Be on the lookout for Servolution...change the world baby!

http://followingyourcommand.blogspot.com/ - Rick Young is a friend of mine from Philly! He is going to be playing a bigger and bigger role in spreading the word about what Children's Cup is doing. He is an up and coming ambassador for the children of Africa...he will be stiring people to action

http://refugejturn.wordpress.com/ - Jamie Phillips is a passionate guy I was able to lead/hang with at Submerge. He loves to worship God and is living a submitted life (which is an awesome, God rock my world, radical life) Check out his blog

http://areowebee.com/ - Rob Gros plays bass guitar, is about to be a Dad, has mad crazy design skills and is really funny! Cool blog but an even cooler guy!

http://toriohlerking.blogspot.com/ - Tori is the daughter of Dan and Vicki...they are cool, so yes she's very cool. She also has a gracious and God breathed strength about her.

http://www.brandonbourgeois.blogspot.com/ - Brandon is a fun loving guy from Elevate. He's got a heart for the nations and I believe God is about to really use him. God's going to use him as an influencer...for good, for righteous living, for right attitude and for truth!

Check em out!

A Lil VBS

2007-07-16T15:11:00.000-05:00

I was able to hang out at HPC's VBS this past Wednesday - Friday. Hats off to Miss Sherrie and the rest of the Children's Ministry team. Over 1500 children came through the doors throughout the week with an average of 1200 or so per day.

Miss Sherrie and her group of dynamic children's ministers are heading to Mozambique to hold a VBS at HPC Nkobe. They will have a huge impact on the children there and especially on Celeste (Children's Cup teacher at Nkobe) and some of the other ladies in the community. The children here in the States are helping to send Miss Sherrie's team. I was honored with the opportunity to pray for the offering. I also managed to teach the kid's at VBS some Siswati(tribal language in Swaziland), Shangaan(a tribal language in southern Mozambique) and some Sibhaca/Swazi dancing.

Check out myself, Cowboy Drew and Heather breaking it down Swazi style!!!

I miss

2007-07-14T00:03:00.000-05:00

People I miss...

thoughts

2007-07-06T11:50:00.001-05:00

Today I sit here broken because I know that God wants to do so much through me. I can't do it by myself, I need to surrender, to fall facedown, to come to the foot of the cross, to die to myself, to give it all....so that I might walk in the purpose that God has for me.

What God is asking Children's Cup to do is huge. What he's asking of me seems impossible. I admit that I am not capable, that we are not capable. Jesus, we need you, we love you and we trust you. "The Lord your God is faithful..."

SUBMERGE 07'

2007-07-05T15:22:00.000-05:00

Had an awesome opportunity to help out at Submerge, an HPC run summer camp in Destin, FL. There were over 500 youth at the High School camp and I think close to 500 at the Jr. High camp which took place during the first half of last week.

Anyways, Submerge was awesome! I had 6 high school guys in my group and two other leaders...Carlos & DJ. God rocked all of us and I believe that we all went away changed. My prayer needs to be that these guys and myself all carry the passion, the conviction and the transformation that God dropped in our lives forward as we go back to our schools, places of work, families and friends.

God has recently challenged me to stay focused. God wants us to choose life (Deutronomy 30:19) and His Spirit has consistently urged me that to do this I need to have focus. My life needs to be intentional, focused on the eternal, organized (ahh, much work needed) and I need to abide in Jesus. You see, my concerns and my problems get so big when I fail to step back in order to focus my life. I need to see with an eternal perspective in order to walk with an eternal purpose. From this point forward, I challenge myself to live an intentional life, not just think about it but truly live it!

B-Ham

2007-07-03T14:44:00.000-05:00

Been on the road again. I was able to head up to Birmingham, AL to visit a good friend Carlos Spaht and visit a couple of churches. Carlos is up in Birmingham clerking for a law firm. It was great being able to hang out with him and check out the city.

I also stopped by Church of the Highlands to talk with Pastor Scott Montgomery.

Then I stopped by The Summit Church at Birmingham to talk with Pastor Jodi who runs the For Runner's School of Ministry.

God's been dropping some truth into my life. Many posts upcoming...

Cup Creative Team

2007-06-24T17:09:00.000-05:00

I just wanted to give some love to the group of people that help run Children's Cup in the United States. Pictured below are Dan, Vicki, Tyrone and myself.

We have been meeting a lot lately to come up with ways that will creatively tell the need and stories that Children's Cup runs into in Africa.

My Life, is a project the three of them have been working on the past month or so. We want to capture the stories, struggles, courage and victories of those living in the midst of poverty, AIDS, malaria and internal conflict in Southern Africa. Check out the Children's Cup website if you want to give towards their trip to capture the first stories of My Life.

A Question, Responses needed

2007-06-15T11:45:00.000-05:00

Four of us from Children's Cup were meeting last night to come up with creative ways to communicate what's happening in Africa and what the need is. So, I ask you:

What would you like to know about African Aids orphans? When you see a picture or video of a child, what would you like to know? What part of their story?

Please leave comments or email me at patrick@childrenscup.org

Family moment

2007-06-08T12:14:00.000-05:00

Cutting Rob's hair. Alright here is what's going on in everyone's mind:
Rob - Straight up praying for his ear and thinking, "He has no idea what he's doing, why did I get myself in this situation"
Colleen - "Yes, he's getting a haircut, Life is great, God is good! I need to encourage someone"
Pat - "Man, I have no idea what I'm doing, I really might cut his ear if I'm not careful"

What's on my mind

2007-06-05T14:11:00.001-05:00

Alright, so sitting here on a warm afternoon and this is what's on my mind.

I think about returning to Africa and how it is less than 3 months away. I am excited and I am ready and yet I am not. I want to and need to seek out God for his vision and his purpose for my return to Africa. I know I need to walk by His Spirit and go with his purpose or I might as well stay here and send money. God's been speaking to me about focus and the importance of staying intentional. I want my two years to be intentional, to be on purpose, to be of God.

The second thing I think about is how I have failed to be very useful to God while I've been home. God has planted and blessed me with so much...yet I have failed to step up, call out and lead while I've been home. Pray that I would be obedient, that God would use me at Starbucks, at church and as I travel.

Another thing is my fundraising. I have over 80% of my money for two years in or pledged. That's over $23,000 that is pledged or given. Yeah, God showed up. I still need another $240 a month pledged or $5,800 given. If you want to help me return to Africa please click here. Pray about it, maybe God is asking you...all I can ask for is your obedience.

Finally, I think about how blessed I am to have a family that cares and loves for me. So many of those kids I get the privelege of serving in Africa lack even one person who loves them, let alone a family.

Last couple weeks

2007-05-30T22:31:00.000-05:00

Here are some pictures from the last two weeks. The first is of my Mom serving up some food at a Block party organized by the Baton Rouge Dream Center. Check out the HPC Serve blog if you want to get involved.

Then the rest of Memorial Day weekend was filled with this Washers game...I have yet to find out the real name of it but I think in Louisiana it's called Cajun Horseshoes. Whatever the name, it is a great BBQ/Braii game. You stand about 10 feet away and throw oversized washers at board with three holes in it. You get 3 points for the 3rd hole, 2 for the 2nd hole and 1 for the first. First to 21 and exactly 21 wins. Good game, JP and I are pretty much unbeatable.

Marriage as it relates to poverty

2007-05-30T13:11:00.000-05:00

So came across this interesting poverty reduction article which basically talks about how broken families significantly increases the risk of a child growing up and staying in poverty.

Here are some of the interesting facts:

- A large majority—92%—of children whose families make more than $75,000 a year live with two parents (including step-parents). At the bottom of the income scale—families earning less than $15,000—only 20% of children live with two parents.

- Those who marry “till death do us part” end up, on average, four times richer than those who never marry.

- A study by Adam Thomas and Isabel Sawhill concluded that if the black family had not collapsed between 1960 and 1998, the black child-poverty rate would have been 28.4% rather than 45.6%. And if white families had stayed like they were in 1960, the white child poverty rate would have been 11.4% rather than 15.4%.

- If she does find and wed the man of her dreams, Miss Ballard will encounter a problem. She has never seen her own father. Having never observed a stable marriage close-up, she will have to guess how to make one work. By contrast, Ashley, the criminology student at the nearby university, has never seen a divorce in her family. This makes it much more likely that, when the time is right, she will get married and stay that way. And that, in turn, makes it more likely that her children will follow her to college. (dang, changing a persons culture, experience, worldview)

-A survey of teenagers by the University of Michigan found that 64% of boys and 57% of girls agreed that “it is usually a good idea for a couple to live together before getting married in order to find out whether they really get along.” Research suggests otherwise. Two-thirds of American children born to co-habiting parents who later marry will see their parents split up by the time they are ten. Those born within wedlock face only half that risk.

Americans expect a lot from marriage. Whereas most Italians say the main purpose of marriage is to have children, 70% of Americans think it is something else. They want their spouse to make them happy. (wait, isn't it that we're suppose to love like Christ loved the church, give you life for that person, love in a pure way...selflessly, unconditionally, for the purpose of building the other person up)

**I thought this was cool, want a poverty reduction strategy, build healthy marriages.

Wrecked for the Ordinary

2007-05-25T17:01:00.000-05:00

A cool site to check out - Wrecked for the Ordinary

snippets

2007-05-23T16:36:00.000-05:00

"Convenience has eclipsed commitment. Sticking to what we believe to be right is hard because change is normal today--and because few are able to endure what is inconvenient."
- Tim Elmore

This spoke to me, I think so often our society flakes out on commitments. Daran Rehmeyer put it another way when talking about courage, "Courage: the heart and willingness to do and say what is required when everything inside and outside screams for compromise."

Lets not compromise, lets not lose focus (man do I do this) and lets stay committed to building the Kingdom of God. If you are reading this don't really get the whole building the Kingdom of God thing then I encourage you to just live a life of commitment and develop an inner courage. Its biblical, its truth and man do I need this truth....do you?

ZIM

2007-05-18T07:26:00.000-05:00

Check out this article about the situation in Zimbabwe from the Economist. Right now Ben Rodgers and Charles Young are in the country trying to coordinate efforts to bring love, food, medical help and education to orphans in the Bulawayo area. Pray for safety and pray for Pastor Dixon...he is Cups contact in Zim and the pastor of a new church in Bulawayo.

San Diego and beyond

2007-05-17T13:21:00.000-05:00

I was able to visit a good friend of mine and his family in San Diego, CA. JC and the Cooper family...it sounds like a good show and it would be too. There are 8 of them plus 1 other child that lives with them. JC's parents have fostered over 20 children in the last 15 years and they have adopted 3 of them. Right now they also have Breanna who they hope they can adopt or find a healthy permanent situation for . I'll find a picture of them and post it later.

Other cool people in San Diego were Max Vague of Carlsbad Community Church, JC's grandparents (30 some years with Campus Crusade) and Kyle Turner of The Summit Church in Irvine, CA. Kyle is the brother of The Summit's Lead Pastor Scott. Check out a picture of me surfing

ok, here is the real picture:

In the middle of 6 days of opening at Starbucks

2007-05-12T21:34:00.001-05:00

It seems like these 20-something times
Lack the clarity of my earlier life
It seems like people come
and people go with such ferocious frequency

I don't know, it is not clear
the path, the people, my place in this
I got to connect but naturally pull back
Afraid, Frustrated, Lazy not really sure which

Life keeps rolling but often I feel
100 steps behind
who am I, how am I
questions in my mind or maybe
questions I need to find

Gotta get on my knees
Pray for my sight
Ask God for brothers
Friends from other mothers
You see, I need to organize
I need to evaluate
Present situation
location, time and date
You see God
People say I need a wife
But I know, I know I need you
I know I need life

More from Arizona

2007-05-10T13:37:00.000-05:00

While out in Arizona I also was able to meet with Todd McIntyre and Mike Gowans from Gateway Life Church. They are a new church that has the right heart. They both have a passion to see a thriving local church that reaches the one but also reaches the world. On a side note, Todd heads up an organization that teaches character in schools. Check out Big Mouth Presentations…they hope to be going national in the next few years.

I stopped by a couple other cool churches including Latitude Life Center, Word of Grace and Lord of Life Church and an awesome couple David & Debbie. In addition to that I was able to hang out with my 9 cousins, two aunts and an uncle that live in the Phoenix area. Here are pics:

Trip West 1

2007-05-04T12:02:00.000-05:00

I’ve been on the road almost two weeks now and it has been good for my soul. I don’t know how to describe it but I needed this trip. Yes, I am out meeting with Pastors and churches about funding my ministry to Africa but I needed this time with God in the worst kind of way. I don’t have life, ministry, friends, relationships, God figured out but I feel like I’ve found some clarity on this trip. It’s sweet when God deposits truth in your life and takes the haze away. He has definitely helped me regain some of my sight…I feel like I still need a better pair of spiritual contacts or glasses and I’m believing God for those. I mean I am one of his children so I should get dental and VISION right?

I was able to meet with Scott & Caryl Helsel who Pastor a new church in Maricopa, AZ. It is exciting how God has blessed them and opened up doors for a church plant in the rapidly growing city of Maricopa. My cousin Kelly also lives in Maricopa and I am hoping she has a chance to connect with Oasis Life Church and especially Scott and Caryl.

More updates on the way! Here is a Pic of Kelly, Jacob and I:

Invisible Children

2007-05-01T10:32:00.000-05:00

My cousins and I attended the Displace Me in the Phoenix area. Invisible Children hosted 15 Displace Me events in cities across the country. It was an experiential event where Americans simulated what it would be like to live in a refugee camp. It was meant to raise awareness, stimulate compassion and ultimately initiate action to stop the war in Northern Uganda. There has been a civil war raging in Northern Uganda for more than 20 years. The Lord’s Resistance Army has forcefully enlisted children as soldiers in this 20 year struggle. Invisible Children is an organization raising awareness and meeting the practical needs of children and people affected by this war.

Displace Me is to tell another story about how the war in Uganda is affecting people. The war has forced a lot of people off of their land and into refugee camps. At the event they forced you to give up everything you brought in so the leaders could redistribute the water and food later. Only women 18-22 were allowed to get water and they could only get one water bottle per trip. This is because women in internally displaced refugee camps may have to travel up to two miles to get fresh water. They usually must take multiple trips a day for their washing, cooking and drinking needs. Then the men were the only ones who could get food and they had to go back in order to feed everyone in their group. They also had people build cardboard shelters to sleep in. It was cool because it actually was similar to what some of the housing in refugee camps look like.

The one part of the night that I especially loved was the 21 minutes of prayer and silence. I think I liked this part of the night because it is the one thing that I believe can stop this war. I don’t think writing our senators or sending in food aid can stop the war. I do believe that the spirit of God moving on the hearts of generals and leaders on both sides of the conflict can lead to peace in Northern Uganda. Pray for peace and pray for God’s church to extend his love. Check out some pic:

Full Time Elevate in Africa

2007-04-22T20:44:00.000-05:00

Hey guys the full time Elevate interns are in Africa for a couple of weeks. They are helping Issac & Carol Williams facilitate the official launch of the Healing Place Church Mozambique Campus. They are going to bring a lot of encouragement, energy and Passion to the Children's Cup team in Africa. God will also rock their worlds as he gives them the opportunity to serve those he cares for deeply.

Check out the Elevate Team Blog. It'll track their adventures, God moments, reflections and reactions to life and ministry in Africa. Pray for them, pray that God uses them and that they open their hearts to what God wants to speak to them. Pray for Isaac as he hosts them. Pray for the community of Nkobe...they now have a CarePoint and a HPC Church. Pray that kids from that community will be loved and nutured to a point where God will use them mightly.

Here is a google earth image of Nkobe, Mozambique - Its a bit old, but there still isn't a lot out there. Yes you have to hit the sand road and keep going!!!!

Tired

2007-04-20T19:26:00.000-05:00

I've been sick the past week. It's been rough because I've had to work a lot. I feel like the physical sickness has revealed to me a bigger battle that is swirling around me. I feel like there is spiritual battle going on in my life...just feel like there are lots of sicknesses and things that the devil is throwing at me lately. Doubt, discouragement, worry and loneliness kind of shoved in my face. I had the chance to really be silent before the Lord the other day and he showed up in a beautiful way. He really is more precious than silver or gold. I do feel tired but I serve a God that is for me, who has walked through trials and understands my weakness. I will trust in him..."strength will rise as we wait upon the Lord".

I'm heading out West on a fundraising trip this upcoming Monday. Please pray that God opens doors and goes before me. I'm about 3/5 of the way to the total amount I need to fundraise. Pray that God sends financial and prayer partners my way...pray that God helps me share the vision in an authentic and clear way. Pray that I would not falter but that I'd go to the living water! Let me know how you guys are doing! (please send me your email address if you are interested in getting email updates, patrick@childrenscup.org)

Obedience, America, Walking in love...

2007-04-16T13:53:00.000-05:00

" Most of us are educated way beyond our level of obedience. We don't need more information. We need more transformation. We need to stop explaining what people already understand. A little less explanation. A lot more exhortation. " - Mark Batterson

Mark came and spoke at Healing Place Church a couple of weeks ago. He seems to be able to find a timeless truth in any situation or subject. I love when God uses creative guys like Mark to bring the simple message of the cross. I also love and am convicted by the above quote. Let's make our faith practical...it seems like I've struggled to do that here in the States. It was what my life was in Swaziland -showing the love of Christ- but I feel stuck sometimes back here in the States.

ok, comments time: What are some ways you've been able to show the love of Christ recently? Please respond, I desperately want to know of ways to practically walk out our faith in 21st century America.

Some cool pics

2007-04-14T18:25:00.000-05:00

I was sifting through some of my Africa pictures and found these two cool hiking pictures. Africa is a beautiful, frustrating, joyful and raging land.

~Charles on a very large rock

~Hiking just outside of Swaziland in South Africa

Chicago

2007-04-13T12:43:00.000-05:00

God is faithful...I just got back from a short trip to Chicago. I was able to meet with the Missions board at South Park Church. It was a great meeting and they decided to partner with me in reaching out to a largely orphaned generation in Southern Africa.

I was also able to hang out with my Uncle Greg, Aunt Judy, Cousin Steve and his fiance Emilie. Check out Steve's blog as he chronicles his life and his journey towards marriage.

One more thing, I woke up the day after I arrived in Chicago to snow....snow....snow after Easter, and that is why I'm not sure if I'll ever live that far north again.

Ping Pong

2007-04-07T18:47:00.000-05:00

Ping Pong is a great game. I must confess that I am a pretty spectacular player. Check out in the picture below what happens when my friend Rich tries to challenge me. Intimidation, Chameleon like deception coupled with Ninja backhands and a devestating forehand put Rich on the floor!!!

--well ok, Rich beat me like 7 times in a row but I swear he's half Asian...funny pic though