Uganda Mission Trip from the Hansens

I had some friends recently go on a mission trip to Uganda, and I wanted to share some of their testimonies and a picture of each from their missional journey...

Dennis Hansen wrote...

"This was my third trip to Uganda and it never ceases to amaze me at how appreciative and thankful the people of Uganda are. They don’t know that they are poor and they are just as joyful as can be. It’s truly an example for me. Paul wrote in his letter to the Philippians, "Not that I am speaking of being in need, for I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content." (Phil 4:11) We could all take something away from that…are we truly content? Also, the Ugandans always have a smile on their faces…another example for me! I need to let our joy of the Lord shine through my face, what better way to do that than with a smile. This year I had the privilege of being part of 'one on one' evangelism for two days. As we went to the different villages each day, our evangelist would preach to the people while the medical team set up the clinic. Our Ugandan friends would go to the medical clinic, then on to the pharmacy to get medications, then they would come to our tent. If they were already saved, we would pray with them. Their top four prayer requests were: better health, husband’s salvation, school fees for their children, and for jobs. If they weren’t saved/born again, I would ask them if I could tell them about Jesus. No one said no. I used an “Evangecube” as illustration to share the gospel. (If you don't know what an Evangecube is, it’s a cube with pictures that helps illustrate the scriptures and story of Jesus and what He has done for us. It is an excellent witnessing tool.) All this is done with an interpreter, of course! Even if I would mess up, my interpreter could help me out! I had the privilege of seeing about 35 people come to the Lord...the highlight of my trip. It was also a blessing watching Terri and Dustin on mission and seeing them “in action.” They both do great. It’s not as natural for me, so it was good to get out of my comfort zone. Again, it was a wonderful experience that I would hope you all can try sometime. You go to be a blessing, but you end up being the one that was blessed. Thank you again for your prayer and financial support. Your prayers held us up and we couldn't have done it without you. God Bless!"

Dustin Hansen, Dennis' son, wrote...

"Back in my routine and back to the grind. And I actually did come home with more than just a tan! I had a lot of incredible experiences, but the ones that stick out above the rest are the times I got to spend with a special friend and mentor that I met last year in Uganda. Pastor Anthony, a Kenyan pastor living in Eldoret, came to Uganda to join us in ministry. Having spent years in Uganda pastoring, Anthony knows the local languages and understands the culture greatly. His love for the people in the Uganda is a real blessing to watch. Most days, Pastor Anthony and I ended up doing "door to door" evangelism or "hut to hut", as I like to call it. One thing that I learned from Pastor Anthony is praying in faith. I've never heard a man pray in as much faith as he does. His whole countenance changes as he prays knowing that God will touch those that he prays for in His will. Pastor Anthony and I had the privilege of seeing many come to know the Lord. From those experiences, I've learned a boldness I never knew before. The way that he could change any conversation he was having into a witnessing experience was amazing. Now that I'm back at school and work, I am more aware of my responsibility as a Christian to share the Gospel, and I recollect on all those experiences in Uganda and remember Pastor Anthony's example. When I got home, I challenged myself to learn how to love my own people as much as Pastor Anthony does his. Once I acquire that love, the next step becomes so much easier. Thanks to everyone who made this trip happen by your prayers and financial support."

Praise the Lord for their Christ-centered lives in reaching the world with the Gospel. Terri Hansen, Dennis' wife and Dustin's mother who also went on this mission endeavor, asked me to share with you the ministry of Mission Link International based in Charlottesville, Virginia, by clicking here.