I have a place.

This morning in staff devotions we read through part of John 14. I'll spare you all of the back story but a beautifully popular verse stood out amongst the rest.

Christ comforts his worrying and confused disciples saying,

"Do not let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God, trust also in me. In my father's house are many rooms...I am going there to prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me..."

Today I offered jobs to 25 people. It's the finale of a long complicated application/interview process that started last month. 60+ applicants for 25 jobs. Jobs are everything in Karamoja and they are few and far between- let alone good development jobs that guarantee a monthly deposit in an account. Someone with the lowest development job (and minimal salary/responsibility) is infinitely wealthier than most of their neighbors of fellow Karamojong.

News spreads fast in the middle of nowhere and unsuccessful candidates would somehow get my number and call about their status. It was tough for me to say no- they did not get the job. I tried to sugar coat it the best way possible. "Sorry, there are no positions left that are available" or "we couldn't find space for you." What I didn't say was "You have no experience, you don't have the right education background, you don't speak the right languages, etc." even though that's why they were not selected. They simply weren't good enough for what I need them to do.

On the flip side, it was great to hear the excitement or see the relief that came to those who were successful. They know they can pay school fees for their children. Food will be on the table. That aching tooth can be pulled now. God has answered their prayers.

How great is it that God accepts us all- no one is turned away for shortcomings? God finds space for everyone- no budget, no work experience requirements, no language skills are needed- there is space. I have a place.

I
will
come back for you
and take you to be with me.