Settling In, Slowly

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

Our front yard and gate

Our house

Our front yard during a thunderstorm

Our driveway during a thunderstorm

Our street

The office building

The gazebo where we have morning devotions

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