Smooches from SA

by Sherri Jarvis

I am often surprised by God's sense of humor and the everyday objects used to teach me something. This week I learned a lesson from lip balm.

Since we are long time Hopewell members, I have known about and supported Mosaic since our church community began partnering with them. A number of years ago, Cammy planted the seed for me to travel to South Africa and perhaps be able to share my joy in creating soaps and skin care products.  The timing and the desire to go did not align that year, or for a few years after that, but when a small mission trip was planned for February it seemed that God was really paving the path for me to make the journey. 

There are too many stories to share even in my first 6 days here, but one afternoon stands out to me. We were getting ready to make soaps and lip balms with the older mosaic students and mama Estelle asked the students to give their best kissy lips. The room was filled with the sound of smooches. Everyone laughed and this did seem to break the ice between us as we began working on the projects.

As we talked about what ingredients would be good to include in a lip balm, I also mentioned that it is critical to combine the ingredients precisely. When these are measured out correctly and combined they make a lovely product. If the ratios are off, you can end up with a mess. The same can be true on mission trips.

The lord was the master formulate for our trip. The mix of gifts on our team has been measured out perfectly and when we mixed with the students and staff at Mosaic something lovely was created. While we made a mess making soap and lip balm, we laughed and got to know each other better. The relationships being built and strengthened in this partnership are truly beautiful. 

As we gathered to say goodbye the entire group of students serenaded us with the South African national anthem and as they jumped in their vehicles to leave they again filled the air with the sound of smooches. 

Because your steadfast love is better than life, my lips will praise you. 
Psalm 63:3 

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