guest blogger - linda wilford

Every morning as I enter my kitchen for my first cup of coffee, I am greeted by a smiling Amir! His picture is on my refrigerator as a reminder to be praying for him and the grandma who is raising him. I was so excited to have the chance to meet him and see the home he lives in. I wanted to thank his Grandma for sending him to the Ekklesia school and for raising him.  Originally, I thought that was why I wanted to go to Ethiopia. To meet Amir and help at the school he goes to. Then we adopted Baaaaab! The sheep. He was purchased in honor of our five grandchildren and they got to name him! It would have been great to bring home a picture of Baaaaab. Another reason to go to Ethiopia!

As our team prepared for our time at the school, I was drawn to the staff of 25+ people. They teach, cook, guard and look after the sheep among other duties. It became important to me to meet them, help them and encourage them. The verse in Hebrews 10 spoke to my heart, ‘encourage one another daily.’ That became the reason I wanted to go to Ethiopia! To get to know the staff and encourage them, and to have them encourage us! To learn how to be praying for them as they operate the school and teach the many children. I wanted to thank them, face to face! Smile to smile!

Even though we didn’t get to take the trip…. my heart is still knit in prayer for the school, the staff, to Grandma and especially to Amir. His smile can still greet me every morning from my refrigerator and our hearts can still be joined in prayer by the Holy Spirit. Now, I just need a picture of Baaaaab!!