RWANDA & COOKIES

Last summer, we had a couple from Rwanda join our small group for the year that they were going to be here.  Joel was doing a Church-Planting fellowship that is associated with our church, and Annie was heading up their household and managing their four school aged children.  I was excited for them to join us and to gain more perspective, but I was not prepared for how much I would genuinely like and love them both.  Life is full of unexpectedly wonderful surprises.  The Sengoga family is precious, and we are so looking forward to partnering with their work as they head back to Rwanda later this month.



Another thing that I never imagined was that I would get to play a small part in their new initiatives.  One of the things that Annie is passionate about is empowering women to care for themselves.  The poverty and unemployment in Rwanda are staggering.  In the past, Annie has helped run a catering business providing jobs for women in need.  While here in the States, she took cake decorating classes to add skills that she would be able to teach others.  When she saw my cookies, she expressed a great deal of interest in learning cookies as well.

So, over the last several months, Annie has spent many afternoons in my home learning the art of cookies.  Spending time with her has been such a privilege and joy for me.  I've learned so much from her in these hours, and I will be forever grateful.  When I became mildly obsessed with cookie techniques and ideas over two years ago, I never imagined something bigger than just making them from my home.  It has amazed me to see that God is allowing me to use this gift to be a blessing to others.  I feel humbled and overwhelmed at the thought.


(cookies Annie did back in March, completely on her own!)

Yesterday, Annie came over to discuss her plans for when she gets home, as well as what she needs to be able to do it well.  I see someone who is determined to help others.  She feels that she has been given so much and is ready to give opportunities and training so that other women can learn a skill and help themselves.  To say I am excited is an understatement.  I am bubbling over with joy to see what God will do in this.



I believe in Annie, but more importantly, I believe in God.  I can't wait to see what he is up to!