Uganda Update #1 - Madison Stalnaker

It has been a great first week here in Uganda! We have gotten to teach volleyball, kickball, ultimate Frisbee, relay races, and play various games with all of the children. The older boys and girls love playing volleyball while the younger children love playing tag and any game that involves running. They have such excitement for learning new sports and skills. They love telling riddles and are constantly asking Seth, Bradley, Kelli, and I if we know of any good ones. Even the simplest riddle will have them rolling with laughter.

One of my favorite experiences at the village so far has been going to nightly devotion. On Tuesday I went to the middle aged girls’ cottage to have devotion with them. After singing praises and reading a story out of Matthew, each of the girls and the mama got on the ground on their knees to lift up prayers of thankfulness to the Lord. This was the most humbling experience I have ever gotten to witness. The prayers of these children are so pure and mighty. The way that they gave praise to our Father and thanked him for all that He is left me in awe. The children are so thankful for everything that they have and the way that they are always praying for others is so selfless.

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This past week at the Rafiki village has impacted me in too many ways to count. It has been such a reminder that we serve a God who goes before us and plans out every detail of our lives. He prepared the way for our MOAM team to come to Uganda, provided safe travels, and has already allowed us to start developing relationships with some of the children. The kids here in Uganda are a true expression of what it means to have joy in even the smallest things. The way that the Lord is allowing us to use our platform as managers to teach sports and proclaim that our faith in Him is the fuel for our life is such an honor. We are truly just a small part in His grand design. I am excited for all of the ways that the Lord is going to continue to mold the hearts of me and my team over these                                                                       next two weeks!

-Madison Stalnaker, Arkansas State Women's Basketball

​To God Be The Glory!

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