I have been in Uganda for two weeks now, although it feels
like it has been longer than that. Things are beginning to feel comfortable and
I am settling in.
I am finished with my orientation and have started working
on projects. It has been a slow and frustrating process of getting familiar
with the design process here. Most of it is similar but different; different materials,
different loads, no set design code so it is a bunch of different codes are
used. It feels like I am not very productive as I need to read/investigate
every step that I am doing. But I am becoming more comfortable and familiar as
time goes on which is encouraging. Life is not always easy and things don’t
always go smoothly. I am constantly being reminded of that. God has never
promised us that life would be easy, but he has promised that he will be with
us and never leave us. I find that very encouraging.
I am settling into life outside of work. I am still in the
process of finding a church. I have gone to a couple of churches and with check
out a few more to find something that fits. I went pickup basketball at a
school nearby with someone from the office. I haven’t played a game of
basketball since high school; my legs are reminding me of that today. Last
night I went to help at a ministry called Doors. Doors is essentially a foster
home for boys who were living on the streets. It is run by some wonderful
American women. We hung out with the boys, cooked dinner, and had a
discussion/bible study. They were very welcoming and it was enjoyable. I have
also joined a bible study with some of the people from the office. I am happy
to get involved with the community here as it is helping me to adjust and settle in
I have been challenged lately of my misplaced expectations.
As I interact with people and hear their stories I am reminded that God is here
among these people and they have genuine faith. I don’t know why that surprised
me, and I am ashamed that it did. I think coming from a country that is more
technologically developed, I tend to project that attitude onto other parts of
life. I am encouraged by what God is doing in the lives of people here and
their love for God and each other.
Pray Requests:
-I have submitted and had my special pass approved which is
required to legally volunteer here. I submitted my application for a work
permit this week. I will need a work permit to stay in Uganda for the full
year. There is some uncertainty as the government can be picky and inconsistent
about work permit application. Pray for favour with the government and a quick
and smooth approval and that God's will would be done.
-One project team is currently out of the office and another
leaves on Saturday. Pray for unity among their teams, clear communication with
the ministries we are serving. And that God’s will with be done in their work.
Below are some pictures of the house I am staying at, the
neighbourhood, and the office.
Blessings,
Matt
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| Our front yard and gate |
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| Our house |
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| Our front yard during a thunderstorm |
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| Our driveway during a thunderstorm |
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| Our street |
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| The office building |
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| The gazebo where we have morning devotions |
