The one unique aspects of life in Uganda that one never thinks about before actually coming to live is… trash collection. We have seen no such thing as a trashcan in Arua much less knowing of organized trash pick up. For some time we have just had two large piles in the back of our yard, one for burning “rubbish” and one for compost that can be used on the garden. Recently, after Marori’s numerous escapades in dispersing trash all over our yard, we decided something needed to change. We decided to dig two large pits for the waste and then build screen covers that will rest over the pits and hopefully keep the dog out. Raymond, a new friend, is needing some financial assistance and having a building background, we felt he was perfect for the job. This morning’s devotion included the classic story from II Kings 3 where the kings of Israel and Judah go off to make war on Moab. They pass through the Desert of Edom and promptly run out of water. The kings quickly realize they have many parched warriors and animals that are quite discontent and they call for the man of God. He comes and the word of the LORD is to… dig pits. “Make this valley full of ditches.” 
One has to wonder at such commands from God – to dig ditches in a sandy valley under a desert sun when there is no cold coke at the end of the day. Yet they dig ditches and the following morning they awake to a valley full of water. That story is not new but reading it this morning as Raymond labored outside our window, digging a four foot ditch it seemed as though God was reminding us that the ditches we dig are not vain. Many times the relationships, experiences, trips back and forth to the market or receiving another visitor at the gate feel like useless ditch digging; where one works up a sweat, expends a lot of energy with no assurance the thirst in your heart or theirs will be quenched. Yet we have to keep believing He is faithful to fill the ditches.
Pray with us this week that we would be faithful to dig wholeheartedly. And trust that He will fill each ditch with the life quenching waters of Himself. Truly we ourselves and those around us thirst for Him.
One has to wonder at such commands from God – to dig ditches in a sandy valley under a desert sun when there is no cold coke at the end of the day. Yet they dig ditches and the following morning they awake to a valley full of water. That story is not new but reading it this morning as Raymond labored outside our window, digging a four foot ditch it seemed as though God was reminding us that the ditches we dig are not vain. Many times the relationships, experiences, trips back and forth to the market or receiving another visitor at the gate feel like useless ditch digging; where one works up a sweat, expends a lot of energy with no assurance the thirst in your heart or theirs will be quenched. Yet we have to keep believing He is faithful to fill the ditches.
Pray with us this week that we would be faithful to dig wholeheartedly. And trust that He will fill each ditch with the life quenching waters of Himself. Truly we ourselves and those around us thirst for Him.
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