“If you have any encouragement from being united with Christ, if any comfort from his love, if any fellowship with the Spirit, if any tenderness and compassion, then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and purpose.”
Philippians 2:1

Somewhere between Bui and Yetebon, bouncing along in our van at the end of a long day, while dodging goats, cows, and small children, I experienced the love of Christ in a way I would have never imagined. When our souls are most vulnerable, God reaches us in new and meaningful avenues.

Our third day of mobile clinic has come to a close. Dusty and dirty, yet happy and excited, we begin the return trip to Project Mercy for dinner. I am talking with my new friend Yemisrach, one of our native Ethiopian translators. We are both tired, but the conversation continues despite our fatigue. She asks about my hobbies; we discuss school, nursing, and our families. “Is your family Christian?” she asks. I begin to explain, “My parents are Christian; I’m not sure what my brother believes.” At this point in the conversation, I usually change the subject or dodge the questions that always follow. But with Yemisrach it is different. My eyes well with tears. “My brother has struggled with drugs and substance abuse for 10 years.” Overcome with emotion, I become silent, fighting back the tears that are burning my eyes. Sensing my grief, my overwhelming weariness and burden, Yemisrach knows that no more questions need to be asked. She softly places her arm around me. “I will pray for him. I will pray for your brother. I will pray for you. Be strong.”

Halfway around the world, in one of the poorest countries on the earth, Yemisrach, my sister in Christ, will pray for me and my family. Praise God.