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Rebecca Westbrooks is currently serving as a GreenLight intern in Katima Mulilo, Namibia. Here she shares about her decision to go to Africa, and her first few weeks of cross-cultural ministry.

As I reflect on my journey to Namibia, I think back to the night of July 25, 2012. I never would have dreamed that, after my prayer time that night, I would be starting a new chapter in my life.

I knew I was being called to serve in Africa, but which country? With which organization? When? These questions pounded in my head as I began to uncomfortably consider God’s will for me.

After seeking my parents’ support, I was encouraged to contact The Mission Society. Eleven months after hearing God in my prayers that July night, I landed in Namibia. I am working with Children of Zion Village, a home for children orphaned by AIDS in the Caprivi Strip of Namibia.

As I write this now, I am still astonished and humbly grateful for the Lord’s provision over me and my journey so far. I am currently 10 weeks into my six-month internship, and have grown to love calling this place my home. Although I continue to fall in love with my village, the children, and the people more and more each day, I did not feel this way from the first day.

Upon my arrival, I did not know what to think. My mind was going in a thousand directions. I was still wrestling with the bittersweet feeling of leaving my home in Georgia. But as I spent time journaling and praying, I gradually began investing in the culture around me. I praise the Lord for His unconditional love and guidance as He slowly and tenderly introduced me to my new home.

Life here is simple, and that’s one reason why I love it. I really do enjoy only having three to four options of cereal. Even on the hottest days, I do secretly like walking as much as the people in this culture do. Not only do I see it as good exercise, but it has made me realize how much I’ve taken for granted. The language I have learned (Slozi) has become a foundation for new friendships in villages and in town. I now love hand washing and hang drying my clothes. It is funny to think about the times I thought transferring them from the washer to the dryer was a hassle. And my desire to wear the clothes and eat the traditional meals of the people here has only increased each day I am around my new family. Before departing from the States, I sought to live the simple life. Now I am aware of what that really looks like.

As an intern, I have thoroughly enjoyed serving alongside Travis and Lorna Curry (COZV directors). I am so grateful for the leadership, guidance, and loving hospitality they have provided me. Having graduated from the University of Georgia with a health and physical education degree, I love having the opportunity to work with the children here in the Zion School. I visit classrooms during the week and teach physical development sessions. I have a passion for worship as well, so the experience to lead music sessions with the students also brings me many blessings.

My time visiting local villages, helping building huts, attending various church services, and sharing fun, yet relaxing, weekends with the children always brings my heart joy.

It is amazing to stop and think about the Lord’s faithfulness. Some days, it is still hard for me to believe I am actually in Africa, doing what I have prayed about for so long. My heart’s desires are to know Him, and to be obedient to His calling on my life. I believe that if I can get those two things right, no matter what is next in His will for me, I will find ultimate joy and peace as I take each step.

I have been so blessed by the time the Lord has given me here, and I am eager to see what He has planned in the remaining months to come.