Welcome back! It has been several days since we arrived in Togo, Africa, and what a whirlwind it has been.
When we arrived at the compound, we were sleep-deprived, hungry, and very anxious. After a refreshing shower, a hot meal, and some sleep we were ready to explore the surrounding 30 acres. Much to our surprise our living quarters were very comfortable. We had been given the “apartment” style room which included a king-size bed, private bathroom, living room, and a refrigerator/microwave! Our expectations walking into the mission were very low. So, I was thrilled to find out we had plumbing!
When stepping out of the apartment, there are several surrounding homes scattered throughout the back of the complex with neatly trimmed grass and beautiful gardens. On any given day there are usually a dozen kids playing, screaming, and running around the compound at all hours.
The next few days after our arrival were a blur. We toured the hospital and the clinic, then began treating patients within the first 24 hours of our arrival. Josh and I spent several hours learning how to navigate the intricacies of tropical medicine in a paper chart hospital. Unfortunately, the Wi-Fi at the hospital is spotty at best so our go-to resource is the bookshelf in the provider lounge. But hey at least we had plumbing!
The L’Hopital Baptiste Biblique was established in 1985 and is a 50-bed major medical, surgical, and acute care facility. The hospital contains wards for men, women, pediatrics, labor/delivery, private rooms, and a limited ICU. It is difficult to see the conditions of the hospital for people who have not witnessed first-hand the raging poverty in Togo. To many in the Western world, this hospital would be deemed unsafe and unfit for providing health care to the community. However, this hospital is a saving grace and answered prayer for the people of Togo.
Many people wonder about the efficacy of medical missions and question if they can produce true disciples. To be completely transparent I asked the same thing. How do you balance the physical and spiritual needs of the patients? How do we get them connected to a community so they can continue to grow in their relationship with Christ?
On day one it was evident the L’Hopital Baptiste Biblique is gospel centered. Their focus from the moment a patient enters the door is to plant the seed. We have had the privilege of watching the HBB staff pray with patients, share the gospel, and mourn with the families who recently lost a loved one.
The HBB chaplains make their rounds, sharing the gospel with each patient and assessing the interest of the patients/families in learning more about Christ. On the clinic side, before being evaluated all the patients attend a morning gospel service led by one of the Chaplains. The goal at HBB is to reach every patient spiritually while their physical ailments are being treated.
So, what happens to the patients or their families once they have been saved?
The chaplains or staff connect them to one of the ABWE churches established locally! This allows new disciples to continue learning and growing in their relationship with Christ under the church’s guidance
How are Josh and I doing?
Well as many of you know, before our arrival I struggled with high amounts of anxiety about our upcoming trip. I feared for our safety, health, and the unknown. I recited Philippians 4:6-7 numerous times on our journey. The feelings of fear and peace rapidly oscillated without reprieve. I thought I would be on edge for the entirety of the trip. Never truly at ease. Except, God provided just like He promised. The moment Josh and I arrived on the compound I felt an overwhelming amount of tranquility.
I know this is where God called me to be.
Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
Philippians 4: 6-7 (ESV)
“The safest place to be is in the center of God’s will.”
Corrie ten Boom
We are excited to continue to give you a glimpse into our time in Africa! We have experienced so much in such a short time and it is hard to sum it all up in one post. So, stay tuned for more updates as we bring you along for the ride!
