Josh and I were so excited to finally begin language school yesterday! We have been warned that this is an extremely hard language to learn, but after class yesterday, we were feeling pretty good about it. Today, after class, we had the opportunity to go out visiting in one of the townships, and practice what we have learned. While visiting, I had several thoughts running through my head.
First of all, learning a language is an extremely humbling experience! We stopped several people on the street today and tested out our xhosa. It felt like before we opened our mouths, they were laughing at us. I found myself not wanting to talk to these people, because I was embarrassed. The Lord touched my heart thinking about this. Proverbs 11:2 says, "When pride cometh then cometh shame; but with the lowly is wisdom." If I'm going to learn this language my pride needs to go out the window. My pastor always says, "If you have never embarassed yourself for God, then you've probably never done much for God." I would say that's a very true statement. Josh and I are praying we can die to self and work hard to learn this language!
Secondly, I was thinking, " Wow! the fields are truly white unto harvest!" I know, this is true everywhere, including back at home. But while walking through the township, the Lord deepened my burden for South Africa. As you look, you think, " Oh how sad! There are so many needs here!" But more than anything, these people need to hear the gospel. And they need someone to tell them.
I am so thankful for the opportunity to be here, and I pray the Lord will continue to work in my heart, so I can better serve Him!
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