Two weeks ago, thousands of participants in worship services at Mission Hills Church in Colorado, were treated to the powerful, personal experience of Sandra Winfrey. Sandra was initially nervous about going to Rwanda, and her story is about stepping into obedience, faith, courage, challenges, adventure and ultimately something much bigger than herself. Now, as an experienced international missions trip leader, Sandra breathes life into (literally “inspires”) others as she shares her story!
At Hope Haven, we are transforming Rwandan and American families by bringing them together in an educational context that fosters relationships and develops Christian world-changers. Healthy relationships are the key to it all, and relationships happen best when we are face-to-face. However, as we all know, it takes a step of faith to leave Suburbia, USA, and to travel to Rwanda, the heart of Africa and “the land of a thousand hills.”
Abraham took a difficult step of faith and eventually saw the fruit of his faith in his promised son, Isaac. Hundreds of years later he was heralded in Hebrews as a hero of our faith: “By faith Abraham, when called to go to a place he would later receive as his inheritance, obeyed and went, even though he did not know where he was going. By faith he made his home in the promised land like a stranger in a foreign country; he lived in tents, as did Isaac and Jacob, who were heirs with him of the same promise. For he was looking forward to the city with foundations, whose architect and builder is God” (Hebrews 11:9-10).
Sandra took a step of faith to come and serve in a new land. Then, she recruited her husband Michael, and they came to Rwanda together. She also enlisted other people like Nora, who contributed to this mission in amazing ways. Now, Sandra and Michael lead an entire team from Mission Hills Church to Rwanda each year. The impact of their personal step of faith is expanding—it’s like a positive infection—a virus of service!
Lasting, meaningful relationships are developed when we serve alongside each other. Durable bonds are created, and dreams are brought to life. Taking a step of faith is easier than you think: Trust God, enlist the support of your community and show up ready to serve. We are waiting for you here in Rwanda, and Sandra and I both assure you that your life will never be the same!
(You can watch the entire video interview with Sandra here)