This is home

Today we spent time at a school, an orphanage, and in the village they function in. Honestly, it was one of my favorite days I have ever spent in Africa. I'm not sure what was different, but I am sure that The Lord was stirring my heart in ways he never has before.  I am filthy, my hair is a mess, my back is aching,  I smell like monkey,  and my feet are so tired but my heart is so full. I held more hands, kissed more foreheads, and fell in love with more babies than my heart can even handle. I love these people. I love this culture. I love this continent. I never want to leave moments like these- full of grace and love that knows no bounds. Despite the language barrier and differences in culture there are a few things we share that know know boundaries- Jesus and love. 
  This evening as I was walking out of the village as the sun was setting I couldn't help but imagine that this must be how The Father feels about us. He never wants to leave the intimate moments he spends with us. In our brokenness, spiritual poverty, and filth He longs for nothing more than to just be with us. To hold or hand and walk through life with us. To laugh and cry with us. To learn and grow with us. He is so delighted to meet us in our mess. How cool is that?! I desire so deeply to never settle for life without these moments. The moments of revelation, surrender, and complete reliance on a God who brings beauty out of brokenness and full hearts out of absolute depravity. 
This is Africa. This is home.