We all have a gift

 “If the whole body were an eye, where would the sense of hearing be? If the whole body were an ear, where would the sense of smell be? But in fact God has placed the parts in the body, every one of them, just as he wanted them to be. If they were all one part, where would the body be? As it is, there are many parts, but one body.” 1 Corinthians‬ ‭12‬:‭17‬-‭20‬

Every one of us is given gifts and when we come together in community they combine to create greatness.  For example…

Jessica has the gift of relationship.  Here she is with Gogo Rosemary who she’s known for 10 years.  Every time we visit, Jessica makes a point to visit her and ask “what’s God telling you today?”  Such consistency and love for so many people in Ntshongweni and across the world.  Mlondi in the photo below she’s known for 15 years.  Jessica is like a mom to him.  The gift of relationship and care.

Valerie has the gift of passion for justice that enables the administration of supporting Ntshongweni.  This happens through Bethlehem Lutheran Church and pastor Thwala.  She’s got an amazing heart for orphans that is shown through her tireless effort in supporting so many in pure love.  The gift of passion for justice.

Katie Jo has the gift of being a child whisperer.  When she comes on the scene in Ntshongweni she has so much love the kids feel it and are like a magnet to wherever she is in the village.  So beautiful to watch as so many of these are orphans.  Not with Katie Jo on the scene.  The gifts of child whisperer and lover of many.

Susan has the gift of not being afraid of anyone or any situation.  She talks with anyone and everyone with care and concern.  She remembers details about their families or challenges over the years and makes great connections with our Ntshongweni family.  The gifts of courage and communication.

Judy has the gift of discernment and nursing.  She saw that gogo Ncobo was struggling with bright light with her cataracts and selflessly gave her sunglasses to make her life better.  She went with pastor’s wife, who studied nursing, to teach the Gogo’s daughters in the second photo how to care for her wounds.  So beautiful and so very needed in the village.  The gifts of discernment and nursing.

Tonya has the gift of faith and music.  She has a super strong prayer life and an Aretha Franklin voice.  Watch below how she shared this gift with the church on our final day.  Such a blessing.  The gifts of faith and music.

Gordon has the gift of deep love and care.  Seeing him interact with so many kids, his love shines so brightly you cannot miss it.  In the 3rd picture Gordon walked down the sidewalk at Ntshongweni Primary School and the kids flocked to him and could sense his care for them.  The gifts of deep love and care.