Saying goodbye to SA - Ryan Emery

I woke up this morning realizing that this will be the last full day I will have in the great God fearing country of South Africa... This morning involved waking up to the inspiring words of a Donald Miller book, "Through Painted Deserts" then to a very moving time of Worship to prepare for the last service we would attend at Mbonisweni. I caught myself asking God to show up in every way possible to make this service the most memorable of them all. I have to admit I was a little nervous about playing a couple of new songs I wrote this morning. I wanted so badly to play the best I ever have and wanted to leave these people with something special that they would always remember. But I realized that its not about what I can show these people or what memories I can leave with them; Its about sharing in the presence of God and praising our creator as equals. If there is only one thing that I take from here it is that I have changed my attitude about what I have to offer this world. Before when entering the different communities I would think to myself that I am going to play with this kid better then anyone else ever has or I am going to bring these people something they have never seen or felt. Quickly realizing that I couldn't offer any life changing advice or materialistic object but I could share the love that our Father has shared with all of us from day one. Gods gift of love is is the most influential thing in my life and is the number one thing I want share with anybody I come in contact with.
I have enjoyed learning and growing with these kids spiritually. Learning how to work through the language barriers and trying to understand each others life morals, when it came down to it we could always talk about the joy that God has put in our life and how that is the most important thing to us.

South Africa, I will always remember you and I will take a piece of you for the rest of my life. Everything from the strong women and volunteers in the communities to the amazing youth group in Mbonisweni have all invested time and love into me and I want to thank you for that. Pastor Stimbiso, God has amazing plans for you and the body of Christ. Watching how you are affecting the lives of many people in your community and how it is flooding outward as well. I pray blessings and favor on you and your beautiful new family. I love you and can't wait to come back and see where God has taken you to the next great thing. South Africa Saligassi!
-Ryan Emery