Reunions

In a life that contains way too many goodbyes, the reunions stand out, sweet and strong.  I can see now Julia hugging Acacia when she left, and when she returned yesterday.  Karen and kids touched down about noon on the airstrip, enveloped immediately into the community that has missed them.  Naomi and Quinn almost popped in the moments of anticipation, and the friends have been inseparable since.  Karen told us all the story of their first two weeks, with photos.  I think my favorite part was the way the airplane pilot making a landing mid-stay just "happened" to bring them a load of fresh vegetables, right when they had reached a low point of feeling desperate about the lack of food choices.  I remember only vaguely now the way Uganda was in the early 90's, the sense of burden in collecting and cooking enough calories to sustain a family, but this challenge looms large for Karen.  The diocese of Mundri has welcomed them warmly, and we rejoice to hear their opportunities and dreams.  Last night, we had the fun privilege of hosting ALL the team kids for dinner, and movies and cake.  A taste of the final feast of the Lamb, the reunion of all reunions.