invisible children

So this morning in class, we spent some time praying for the children who are being trafficked as child soldiers. For those of you who are unfamiliar with this issue, let me explain...

Basically, 23 years ago, a man in Uganda named Joseph Kony created what is called the Lord's Resistance Army. Kony's reason for creating this army was to fight in the name of the Lord for the restoration of peace and unity in Uganda. Sadly, the complete oppostite is true. He uses a mixture of his own witchcraft, spreading horror throughout Uganda (and other countries of Africa) by taking children from their homes, brainwashing them by injecting them with a mixture of gun powder and drugs, and forcing them to take up arms and kill. Also, many women and girls are used as sex slaves for the army. These brainwashed, desensitized children now make up more than 90% of the army.

In 2003, three young film makers from California decided to go to Africa to create a documentary when they discovered this atrocity, and made the movie "The Invisible Children." Since making the film they have petitioned the US government, the UN, and the Ugandan government to get involved. On April 25th, these forces will go into Uganda and capture Joseph Kony and his officials. Tomorrow, March 25th, the official unveiling of the Rescue Plan can be viewed on www.invisiblechildren.com, and will give more details towards Kony's capture.

Also, our team has learned that child soldiering is a big issue in Colombia and Myanmar (where our teams will be going). The government has no laws against it in Colombia, and Myanmar's government is overthrown by guerrilla forces. Child soldiering is taking place all over the world.

So I just encourage you to research this and pray about it during this next month. And especially be praying on April 25th. Please continue to educate yourself on the Rescue Plan also.

What amazes me most is that it all started with three guys. They saw what was going on in Uganda, they made a film, got people informed, got people involved, petitioned, and now action is being taken! Praise God! With Him, NOTHING is impossible! SO much change and justice can be brought to this world if God's people would just get out there and DO SOMETHING!

Whew, don't get me started...

Anywho, on a lighter, happier note, here are some pictures of my team that's going to Colombia:

We're a pretty good-looking team : )

and we're goofballs too. : )