Monday – “He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.” Ps. 147:3

Dancing and singing – the universal language!  The morning was filled with a variety of these, from the entire group joined in song and dance, to Anna teaching a couple of the girls some songs in English and how to strum her guitar - the endless ways to communicate without knowing their language.  Natalie brought materials for the women to make a necklace out of a wooden tile covered in a variety of patterned material to string on a cord as a sign of friendship between them and our group – sister necklaces. Once made and tied around necks, they were proudly worn as a sweet symbol of our sisterhood in Christ.  The afternoon session delved deeper into the issues of woundedness as Robyn shared the story of Tamar and her abuse.  This definitely resonated with the women, as sexual abuse is rampant here.  The pain of identification was plainly visible, and as Robyn shared how God hates such abuse, is ever present with them and is infinitely aware of their pain and tears, there was an instant response.  It opened the door for some to share of their own experience and how God has walked with them through it.  They were so grateful for this openness which gave them hope of healing.  Walls were definitely penetrated today, and as the sessions continue for the next two days, we pray for them to experience His gentle, healing touch in deep, personal ways.

Karen and Heather also spent time with the women discussing women’s health, going over basic physiology and how God designed the woman’s body to work, His unique design.  The entire cycle of life was explained, and it opened the way for many questions that obviously they had been wondering about. Some questions were looking for assurances that what they experience is normal; they were unsure about what is usual and what needed attention.  It is apparent that they, as so many, have limited knowledge of their own bodies and how they work.  Pregnancy and childbirth were explained, again dispelling some fears/lack of information.  It seemed very reassuring to them to have nurses there to openly answer their questions, and that they had the freedom to ask.  Basic hygiene was reviewed, as well as nutrition.  It was a greatly informative time, and you could see that it was very beneficial to them.  At the end, the team presented each of them with a bag containing a washcloth, bar of soap, and scented lotion.  You would have thought that they’d been handed immeasurable treasures!  Their immediate response was to jump up and down in sheer joy, then burst into songs of praise to God for blessing them.  It was significant that their thanks went to God first….not to us, which is as it should be, but impressed each of us as to their awareness that God is their provider, and it is He who deserves thanks.  Peace translated their song to us – “Our God is so great!  And He is blessing us again!”  Oh, that we could all have and maintain that perspective.

Such a full, though emotionally intense day.  We shared hearts, hurts, tears, and laughter.  We hugged, kissed cheeks, and looked into one another’s eyes as women; as His daughters.  What a beautiful bond that is – what glimpses of hope, not only for these women, but for their country.