The Real Deal of Humility
Today was a deeply moving day. We stepped outside of the usual area where we’ve been ministering to see more of what God is doing across this part of Zambia. Christ Life Church has two church plants about 40–50 minutes outside of Lusaka, and visiting them was nothing short of inspiring.
Back in 2017, a young pastor named Cederik and his wife, Amelia, felt called to make a difference. With a passion for people and a heart surrendered to God, they began meeting under a tree for Bible study in the rural community of Chunga. That simple gathering under the open sky eventually became a church—a branch of Christ Life Church planted through faith, love, and perseverance.
Today, that tree has been replaced by a makeshift building with a roof, an outhouse, and no electricity or running water. Yet, inside its humble walls, over 35 preschool-aged children—many of whom are orphans or vulnerable—gather to learn, grow, and feel safe. This is Cederik and Amelia’s ministry: offering a haven, a beginning, a glimpse of hope.
Their teacher, Violet, is a volunteer who has been faithfully serving for three years without pay. No salary. No budget. Just a heart for God and a love for children. We were overwhelmed by what they’ve accomplished with so little—living examples of what it means to work for the Lord, trusting Him for every single need.
Before we left, the entire team humbled themselves—literally—by kneeling and asking for prayer. As we laid hands on them and prayed, we were all struck by the raw beauty of that moment. Humility wrapped in strength.
A few miles away in Katenda, we met Aaron and Helen—another couple called to serve. Aaron, a graduate of Christ Life’s college program, willingly stepped into this rural community, answering the need. With a small plot of land purchased by Christ Life, they currently meet in a nearby school while dreaming of a church building to call their own. Church members met us on the property with smiles, song, and requests for prayer. Together we worshiped, prayed, and asked God to provide for their vision. That prayer—well, we understand that deeply (see Jeremiah 29:11).
What struck us most today was the humility we encountered. Real, raw humility. We don't often see this in our day-to-day lives back home in the U.S.—people willing to give up a paycheck, 401k, healthcare, and comfort to serve others with their whole lives. It was convicting. Inspiring. Life-altering.
As we returned to the Christ Life Campus, we spent time hearing powerful testimonies and preparing for the midweek service. Three team members shared messages, but what left the biggest impact was watching several girls from the Girls Home worshiping on stage. Girls who once had no future now praising the God who gave them one. It was a tangible reminder of the God we serve—a God of redemption.
A God who truly makes all things new.
This trip is shifting something inside all of us.
We’re learning what real humility looks like. We’re seeing joy in places that lack what we consider “essential.” And we’re realizing how much we’ve been given—and how much more we’re called to give.
Tempe, Arizona will still be home when we return. But our hearts? They’ll never be the same and neither will our own church community as we bring back this fire in our hearts.
Team Member of the Day Spotlight:
Lorete Feka
A True Sacrifice
This trip has been such a beautiful experience. From the moment we arrived, we were greeted with warm smiles and tight hugs. The joy here is palpable. It’s contagious.
One thing I’ve noticed is how incredibly bright their smiles are—so genuine, and their teeth! Perfectly white and straight. It made me think about how much our Western diets affect our health in ways we don’t always notice.
What also amazes me is how often they break into song—and not just any singing. It’s angelic, from the heart, and full of movement. There’s something about hearing voices lifted in unison that moves your soul.
Today, we started with a leadership session at Christ Life Church, sharing testimonies and hearing a message on humility—how Jesus modeled it, and how we’re called to serve like Him.
Then we had the opportunity to teach the younger students. At first, they were a little shy about our skit, but with a bit of encouragement, they opened up. The pre-K class stole our hearts—when we walked in, they ran to us with such excitement and nearly knocked us over with their hugs! It was such a tender moment.
What struck me again and again is the trust these children have. There’s a purity in their interactions that’s rare. We noticed how young kids confidently left class to go to the bathroom on their own—something that would raise eyebrows back home. Here, it’s normal. Safe.
During our craft time, we handed out glue sticks, which many of them had never seen before. We had to demonstrate how to use them! And when we handed out a small container of broken crayons—they were thrilled. It reminded me of how often I take small things for granted.
For lunch, Pastor Mullinga treated us to Zambian chicken and beef curry with rice. It was delicious—so flavorful I had to get seconds! Later, we learned how to eat nshima (pronounced "shee-ma"), a staple food here that looks like a lump of soft dough, eaten with the fingers. Watching the staff eat so gracefully with their hands reminded us how different—and yet beautiful—cultures can be.
We ended our day with the girls at the Girls Home. Listening to their stories brought tears to our eyes. These young women came from the streets, from homes where they were neglected, abused, or simply unwanted. Some spoke of being used, sold, or forgotten.
But today, they are loved. Safe. Free.
They shared stories of transformation and healing. Then we handed out coloring books, stickers, bracelets Suzi made, and an elastic jumping game that I brought. We laughed and played together—it felt like being a kid again. Joy, in its purest form.
