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Eswatini, it's a small country, only 6700 square miles, slightly larger than Connecticut. Formerly known as Swaziland, it is a landlocked country in southern Africa, bordering mostly South Africa, but also bordering Mozambique to the northeast. It is governed as an absolute monarchy under the leadership of King Mswati III, who has been the head of the royal family since 1986. Siswati and English are the official languages. The predominant religion is Christianity/Protestantism, although indigenous African beliefs are also present/intermixed.  Eswatini's population is predominantly (about 70%) rural, living on family homesteads, with maize and sorghum as the major crops.

Eswatini faces significant health challenges, despite ongoing public health efforts. Life expectancy is about 59 years, among the lowest in the world. HIV prevalence is about 25%, with high rates of co-infection with tuberculosis, and multi drug resistant TB rising. There is a high incidence of cervical cancer, despite the fact that it is largely a preventable disease. 63% of the people live in poverty, and food insecurity/malnutrition is a persistent problem. Mental health access is limited. There are many challenges, and yet the Lord has raised up many people and organizations to serve this community. People who bring medical care, counseling, food, education, and the hope that is found in Jesus.  These are the people and organizations that the group from Our Redeemer will be interacting with. 

As the first six members of our group departed for Eswatini this  morning, we pray for safe travel, that the Lord would be with them on the long flight. As we prepare to enter a country some of us have never been to before, we pray for humility, unity of purpose, a willingness to listen, to support one another and those we meet, a servant's heart..... Lord, we thank you for Anita who has been serving your people in Eswatini for many years - give her wisdom to lead the Our Redeemer group and bless her efforts to organize and plan this trip. May your will be done in and through each member of this team as we interact with those we meet in Eswatini.

We know that the Lord watches over us, protects us, and is ultimately the One who guides our journey, even as He has guided the journeys of His people throughout the ages.

The Lord will keep you from all evil;
    he will keep your life.
8 The Lord will keep
    your going out and your coming in
    from this time forth and forevermore.

Psalm 121:7-8