the 'Saah Josephs'

Just three days after I wrote my last post, Tracy and I met four men from Rotary International for dinner. It was just what I needed.

Several years back they started a small school, church, and medical clinic in a neighboring village. The best part of the evening was hearing from Saah Joseph. He is from Liberia, but has moved here to Sierra Leone because he has a heart for his people; all over Africa. Joseph was once a refugee of war, first fleeing Liberia's war to Guinea and then here to Sierra Leone. He has started schools and churches in each of those countries. He has a heart full of compassion, desiring to meet the needs of his people. I could see it in his eyes and hear it in his words.

Hearing his story and his heart, put back in me the faith for Africa, for Sierra Leone, and her people. There may be many thorns, but there ARE the roses. There are many more men and women like Saah Joseph who are not living out of selfish gain and dishonesty. No, they want to give back and make a difference.

The next day I met with the director of one of the local hospitals. He may be the chief medical doctor of the hospital, but one of the most humble men on this planet. Despite his very busy and demanding role, he dropped everything to see us with eagerness. He is excited for what we will be doing and is more than willing to help in any way that he can. Another Saah Joseph. More faith.

Two days later, Jeremy and I visited the Don Bosco boy's home. Don Bosco was a italian Catholic priest in the 1800's who had a vision from God to start homes for boys living on the streets. There are now Don Bosco homes all over the world. Talk about a phenomenal ministry. The boys from ages 9 to 18 are taken in off the streets, given a home, community, education, and counseling for nine months. They are then followed-up with a social worker for three months as they get integrated back into their families and communities. To briefly meet these boys was music to my soul. We were even invited for an ENORMOUS and DELICIOUS african meal with the father and some of the staff members. Again, my heart was encouraged to see the locals stepping up and out to reach their youth in need.

Africa, I am beginning to believe in you again.