A Solitary Place

Ronas and Busie laughing at "Mr. Grumpy" (Danny).

The first week of March found us at Kruger National Park with Ronas and Busie Marule for some time of rest, refocus and renewal. They had never spent a five nights away from home in twenty-one years of marriage. They lived only a few kilometers from the park and had never spent the night in the park. It was exciting to watch them relax and see God’s creation that was right around them.

We prayed constantly for God to bring specific animals our way and also for Him to give us insight into spiritual lessons from those animals. They first wanted to see Rhinos and God brought seven the first day. They were astonished! 

Busie shared her struggles with the ministry in her quiet and gentle way. I just don’t feel valuable to the Lord. I seem small and insignificant.

She and Cathy bonded and began to see the value God places on such qualities. (see 2 Peter) Busie lit up when she realized the great value God places on a quiet and gentle spirit.

Ronas talked of the years of struggle in churches, YFC and other ministry settings. As we watched the leopard jump from his tree Ronas opened up and talked about some wounds he experienced in the ministry. Their are so many people who leave the ministry believing they are honourably wounded with burnout and depression.

What a powerful week of bonding and seeing the Lord in so many ways in so many places. Thank you Lord for this time.

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Busie excited when talking about time with Cathy.

A Rhino only meters from our vehicle.

A European Roller pointed out by Cathy. God paints such beautiful birds. Nothing is too small for Him!

A Leopard up in a tree with his partially consummed kill.