Finding Joy in Uncertain Times

Quiet time away 

     As many of you know, we had a quick change of plans last weekend. We were packed and ready to fly back to our home in South Sudan until we found out that all airplanes were required to go through the capital city of Juba. After what's been going on there in the past week, we didn't feel comfortable taking our family through so we decided to postpone. Knowing we'd need a few weeks to wait and see how things go in South Sudan, we traveled back to western Uganda where Bethany's parents live and do ministry. Though it is always challenging when you don't know your next step, it is a comforting place to be - in our Heavenly Father's hands and at home with family. We are deeply grateful how God worked things out.

     Last week Eli and I were able to leave the boys with their grandparents and take a few days away at a quiet, beautiful place on the edge of an animal reserve. We spent most of our time taking in the spectacular scenery, talking through heavy subjects and praying over different aspects of our lives. Our time away together was everything it needed to be.

I was pleased with my lunch

So thankful to have each other to go through life with!

Drinking evening tea on the porch of our little bungalow

 Last Thursday my parents drove us to Kampala, the capital city of Uganda. We thought we were on our way back to South Sudan so we spent some time doing last minute shopping and enjoying some special treats.

Gelatto ice cream with Mimo

Lattes with my Mama

On our first night in Kampala we got to spend the night with the Boland family, teammates of ours. We had served together at Gideon Theological College in Melut. They are now based in Uganda and teaching in a Bible College where many of their students are Southern Sudanese.

The kids camped out in the yard for the night

Lunch at Java House

My Mom and Dad

The day we returned to Mbarara, where my parents live, I was unpacking our things once again and thinking how crazy it was to be back at my parent's house moving back in when I had just packed us up a few days before! But the overwhelming feeling I had was GRATEFULNESS. We are so thankful that if we can't be in South Sudan right now, we get to be with family in a beautiful part of Uganda.

Josh & Grandpa