Throughout this whole internship, we have been pushed to be present in every single moment we have. In every service opportunity, Bible study, meal time and even relaxing time. Now, this was a big struggle for me when I first got to Uganda. My heart and mind has still been in El Salvador. I wish I was there still. I’ve never missed a place this much in my entire life, but when Jesus calls you to serve somewhere, sometimes the feelings behind it can weigh you down.
Getting to Uganda was hard. At first, I didn’t want to be here. I know that sounds bad. I know It sounds like I am someone who is unable serve well. But, it was only because I missed the kids I got to serve. I missed my friends who spoke my same language. What I had to contend with is God’s call to serve there in the future, but God’s call for me to serve in Uganda right now. I had to switch gears to serve here, and that is hard.
It got easier because of our friends here. Hearing their voice in person, seeing their smile, hearing their testimonies… I felt at home. Because of that, I was able to switch gears and be present with my friends here. This time, I was more attentive to when they were telling stories. I asked better questions that led them to share vulnerably with me. God’s word was the foundation for almost all of my conversations. Being present was no longer an issue for me, because I was so filled with joy to be with my beautiful brothers and sisters.
I know I will be back to El Salvador so many times in the future. But, I do not know when is the next time I will be back here in Uganda, so I am trying to make the absolute most out of this time. Already, helping facilitate SLAM has been one of the best experiences of my life. Seeing the SLAM students being impacted by the word of God and being transformed, blesses my heart so much. I remember why I came on this trip: To serve on mission with Jesus. That mission is others.