Independence...

Happy Independence Day!

As I write this, I had to think about how many years the USA has been able to celebrate independence from colonial rule - 234 years. Is that right? I think so - 1776...

On Wednesday, June 30th, the DR Congo celebrated its 50th anniversary of independence from Belgium rule. Fifty years.

What does it really mean to have freedom? To be free?

Living in the DR Congo for two years, I've seen and heard and understood a lot of things about the country. On a day like today, the celebration of independence for the USA - the contrast between the two countries is strikingly clear.

The last fifty years of independence for the DR Congo has given little progress, little change. In many ways, lives are worse than they were, or just a little better.

Here is a photo slideshow of Congo's Independence, celebrated on 30th June, 2010."In pictures: The DR Congo at 50" - BBC News

Happy Independence Day - Thank God for the freedom He gives us, regardless of nationality, tribe, race, education, gender, age... Our God really does bless us!

Bethany

I don't know why

Often I wonder why... Tragedy never seems to be far from the Democratic Republic of the Congo: 

Fuel Tanker Explosion Kills Over 220 In Congo - NY Times
DR Congo oil tanker blaze 'kills 220' - BBC News

One report I read said that people had been gathered to watch the World Cup when this happened... Remember the DR Congo in your prayers!

Thanks

Give thanks to the Lord for He is good, His love endures forever. He is my strength, He is my song. His love endures forever. I will proclaim what He has done, His love endures forever... I will give Him thanks, He answered me. He is my salvation! This is the day the Lord has made, I will rejoice and be glad in it! 
Psalms 118

Well I have arrived back in the States... All of my luggage arrived as well! I haven't checked inside them yet to see if the contents are here, but the bags made it at least!

Thank you all for your prayers! I'm tired now, will go to take a nap soon... But I'm back in Wisconsin after three long days of travel. Thank God!

Here we all are, just after getting back, we got the family together for a meal together! Hooray for family and pizza!!! :)

I will update more again soon..

Much love,
Bethany