In January, my husband, Jon, and I joined a GLO supporters’ trip to Burundi alongside 12 others, of a variety of ages, experiences and nationalities, feeling a mixture of excitement and trepidation. I had visited Burundi in 1998, post-civil war, so I was interested to see the country almost 30 years on.

We had the privilege to meet the leaders of the 29 GLO Partners, hear their personal stories and pray for them and their teams. Words like integrity, selfless, joy, impressive and ‘all out for Jesus’ came to mind. Almost all had experienced incredible suffering, yet all testified that through their faith they had been able to forgive and live in peace. They work tirelessly to bring transformation to Burundi, often at great personal cost. From what we saw, GLO’s vision is absolutely being fulfilled!

What struck me most throughout the trip was how holistic the work is. The message and the love of Jesus are always central, but often the first step is meeting practical and emotional needs through a wide variety of initiatives. An unforgettable moment was joining a gospel rally in the bush organised by UCCD. I never dance, but surrounded by local families, I couldn’t help but join in as we worshipped together, prayed for
people, and watched many respond to the gospel.

Another highlight was a sports outreach with Charles Nkazamyampi, Burundi’s World Championship medallist. A 5k run and a football match gathered young people to promote peace, distribute practical gifts such as goats and school materials, and hear the gospel. My husband was delighted to be the first non-Burundian across the finish line, though he was beaten by a young girl running in heeled shoes!

Perhaps the most moving visit was to a community transformed through Foundations for Farming. They previously lived in extreme poverty without hope. Today, through simple but effective farming methods and a renewed faith in God, families grow enough maize to feed themselves on a fraction of the land previously used. Standing in the towering corn we saw not only practical transformation, but restored dignity, and a renewed belief that God has not forgotten them

Overall, I felt such hope for Burundi, something I had not felt in 1998. It motivated me to continue sharing the work of GLO with our church and community and raising more funds for this amazing work God is doing!

Beyond that, the trip left me with a question:

What does this mean for how we should live, here in the UK?

I’ll leave you with the words of one leader:

“For me, life means doing what God has called me to…
I care more about walking with Jesus than about the mission.”