Amy's sixth birthday has finally arrived. As is our habit in Zululand, South Africa, where my husband and I serve as missionary pastors, we are already dressed, though it is only 5 a.m., and are gathered on our bed giving gifts to Amy.
Someone knocks at the door.
I rise and open our front door. Two church members, Khanisiwe Mhlongo and Philisiwe Nene, emerge from the winter darkness. Being up and dressed, we are ready to provide a ride to the hospital nine kilometers away. Amy taps my shoulder. She's calling you.