(vicariously, that is)

Jim, Jake and Derek arrived safely in Botswana early Sunday morning. The boys took a good long nap upon arriving and seem to be adjusting to the time zone.

Derek, unfortunately, is fighting a fever and probable ear infection, so please pray that God will restore his health. He has been a trouper, though, not complaining and participating in the group’s activities.

They visited an orphanage today, where children aged 2 to 7 reside. Many of the children are orphaned due to HIV/AIDS, which sadly is prevalent in Botswana. Evidently, the kids loved Derek. They climbed on him, tugged at him, and rode on his back. Derek has a special connection to little kids–he is empathetic and loves to make them laugh. It’s good to know that God is using him to bring love into kids’ lives.

If you would like to read regular updates from Botswana, one of the team members is keeping up a blog here.