So I live in the slums. By choice. By request of Jesus. Why is that so shocking? I'm going to rant just a bit at no one in particular so bear with me. We have been living on the edge of the slums of Wabigalo in the huge city of Kampala. Our house is a modest three bedroom home. At first sight of the house I wanted to cry and run home to America. However after a coat of paint and some new furniture it's become home. Yeah we have a stinky pit latrine out back, but it comes in handy if you don't have water to flush the toilet. Our "yard" consists of dirt, broken concrete and the most recent addition of a rooster who spreads poo everywhere. Honestly maybe I've been here too long but I find myself not only loving this house but becoming very protective of it when well meaning Americans "tsk tsk" in sympathy when they see it.
In a city where there are either very rich or ridiculously poor people I find our house a comfortable in-between option. So what if our kitchen cabinents are made out of concrete with big gaps inbetween? What is the important thing here? Am I supposed to alienate myself from the very people we are here to serve?
This past month has really opened my eyes to our living situation and how lucky we are. God has continued to provide every step of the way. We are known in our community. We are learning the language. We are comfortable walking the streets. In just six short months God has given us a glimpse of what it will be like to be thought of as a real neighbor in this culture. We are excited by the prospect.
So please my dearest friends, family and visitors...don't pity us. Don't assume we are living this lifestyle and suffering. WE ARE BLESSED! God is teaching us to give up our American idealism of what a "nice house" is. I would be lying if I said there weren't days I didn't wish I was on the other side of town where the grass is green and the wind blows away the city stink...but HERE is where God has placed us. We aren't any stronger than anyone else. If God asks you to do something you just do it and He makes it okay. And the safest place to be is in the center of God's will.
Subscribe to this comment's feed
Show/Hide comments
Show/Hide comment form
