The last day in Addis. I imagine that it’s not unlikely that by the time this is posted and read we will be in the air or maybe even home. As I think over the past couple weeks it feels pretty daunting to even attempt summarizing it all. All the people, faces, stories; the unjust living conditions and struggles of so many. I could spend hours, days, weeks detailing and communicating my emotions and confusion over what I have seen and experienced and how we should respond. I believe such raw and painful thoughts are important; they keep us motivated and stir our compassion, but it is equally important to recognize that there is more than sorrow and sadness to dwell on in Addis. There are successes, there is hope, there are people and events to be thankful for.

One thing I am immensely thankful for is the staff of the project; they are truly amazing. I am humbled and enlightened by their dedication and love for Christ and their ability to genuinely share and reflect that love to the beneficiaries, team members, and fellow staff.

I’m thankful for the beneficiaries. For their strength and support of one another. For their graciousness and willingness to allow us into their homes and lives. Thankful how the joy and love of Christ can be heard in their words, seen in their eyes, and felt in their touch despite all their worldly hardships.
I’m also thankful for this team and each individual member. I’m thankful for the different gifts each person has brought. How watching, living, and working so closely together has allowed us to see attributes of God that we would not have seen on our own and how we have learned more about the nature and love of Christ.

I’m thankful for the supporters, families, and friends in the states. Knowing that so many are praying for us, the Project, and the beneficiaries has strengthened and comforted us all.
Most of all, I am thankful to God. Thankful for the opportunity to serve Him through serving his children. Thankful for the knowledge of his love and for the gift of being called a child of God. Thankful that he has promised that he will make all things new. That as we serve in His name we know that ultimately it will be his hands not ours that will bring salvation, justice, and comfort to His kingdom.

Please note: Today’s update, the last one from this trip, was written by Pige Schuette, a pediatric occupational therapist from Park Slope Church in Brooklyn, NY. This is Pige’s second medical team to Addis.

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