tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-54650877467700155552024-03-05T17:42:13.351-05:00Brad & Camie Matlack - The Circle Story - Nairobi, KenyaWE ARE WALKING WITH THE MOST VULNERABLE AND INVITING OTHERS TO DO THE SAME
Women and children in Kenya are generally marginalized and voiceless.
Our vision is to be ever-present in their stories, bringing eternal hope through relief and development work, and helping others understand their story. We serve through The Circle Story, Inc. To see what is happening on the ground visit tazamania.com
Our Journeyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00160172429148991941noreply@blogger.comBlogger174125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5465087746770015555.post-7945232518097324792020-04-24T02:36:00.000-04:002021-11-05T06:21:41.979-04:00<h4>
<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i>HIS ways…</i></span></span><span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i>HIS thoughts…</i></span></span><span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i>HIS Word…</i></span></span><span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i>All for HIS glory…</i></span></span></h4>
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<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">About 2 months ago, I woke up with a Bible reference in my heart. I couldn't remember any of my dream</span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; text-align: center;"> </span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">, I just knew that somehow GOD had given me a scripture. <b>Isaiah 55</b>.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Brad and I spent time reading and rereading the passage. It encouraged us, but then we set it aside.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Yesterday morning, I remembered the scripture again. <b>Isaiah 55</b></span></span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Truly, my heart burst as I read the first verse. </span></span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i><b>“Come, all you who are thirsty,</b></i></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i><b><span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span><span style="font-kerning: none;">come to the waters;</span></b></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i><b>and you who have no money,</b></i></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i><b><span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span><span style="font-kerning: none;">come, buy and eat!</span></b></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i><b>Come, buy wine and milk (ugali and rice)</b></i></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i><b><span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span><span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none;">without money and without cost. (Is 55:1)</span></b></i></span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">We have seen this picture every morning this week at our centre. <i><b>Literally.</b></i> The Tazama Nia shop opens at 8am. The poor, the sick, the needy, the widows, the old, the disabled, those that care for orphans… they all come and “buy” food they need - without money.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">This definitely got my attention! What is God’s message for us?</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I read on. What do we have to offer to our community? Yes, we have food. But we have something even more powerful! </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i><b>Listen, listen to me, and eat what is good,</b></i></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i><b><span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span><span style="font-kerning: none;">and you will delight in the richest of fare.</span></b></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i><b>Give ear and come to me;</b></i></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i><b><span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span><span style="font-kerning: none;">listen, that you may live.</span></b></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i><b>I will make an everlasting covenant with you,</b></i></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i><b><span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span><span style="font-kerning: none;">my faithful love. (Is. 55:2-3)</span></b></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Oh, may we faithfully lead each one of the vulnerable that God has brought to us to the TRUTH of God’s love. For now, we are including a copy of the book of John in each of our bags. One man already came back to Brad that he has read the whole book and would like to sit down and talk about it. Next week, we will start again with our scripture and devotional to include in the bags. “After this pandemic” - (I think we say this phrase a hundred times a day )- we will work to pursue these families as a ministry.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i><b>Seek the Lord while he may be found;</b></i></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i><b><span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span><span style="font-kerning: none;">call on him while he is near.</span></b></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i><b>Let the wicked forsake their ways</b></i></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i><b><span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span><span style="font-kerning: none;">and the unrighteous their thoughts.</span></b></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i><b>Let them turn to the Lord, and he will have mercy on them,</b></i></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i><b><span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span><span style="font-kerning: none;">and to our God, for he will freely pardon. (Is 55:6-7)</span></b></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The national closing of all bars has had several consequences here in Ngando. Unfortunately, it has not stopped the drinking. It has just brought the alcoholics out into the open. And, the main hangout place is right through where Brad and I walk every day to reach our centre. These verses are for them… verses that bring so much hope! Our God of MERCY. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">On Saturday, we will be distributing just one bag of ugali to every person who has ever attended one of our Addiction Assistance meetings in the last year. (There have been over 200 people - we will do our best to find them all.) We can’t give too much food, as sometimes there is a great temptation to sell the food and buy alcohol. But, our desire is to show them the mercy and love that GOD has for them. God is seeking them. GOD wants to lavish his faithful LOVE on them!</span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYv1-uCh_-71UCuZTQqZoO0vBC1KT2BXA5QLqgTPep-73xlRNLPBuOX-JnakyY7j9LqZt8y1yArRdqzFREWK8GWdeXsoDzprPM90-usnsCD_3S0Oq0QWIyDJ8QSIY65dVQmJXS2E5RNGJU/s1600/IMG_8697.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYv1-uCh_-71UCuZTQqZoO0vBC1KT2BXA5QLqgTPep-73xlRNLPBuOX-JnakyY7j9LqZt8y1yArRdqzFREWK8GWdeXsoDzprPM90-usnsCD_3S0Oq0QWIyDJ8QSIY65dVQmJXS2E5RNGJU/s640/IMG_8697.jpeg" width="480" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxijQjfy9l_E2_AlygI6jrVSuP4bzejdrZDvlKyuz4d4BNRUPq4bi8Rbg-rHNbx8S96CiZ7eocE6KTLlRnUX1sDGdFrtlEZsV7H-5F_2Z-zEgaHbTLrii44QI409KxkxEUNap5dhIKiLun/s1600/IMG_8695.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxijQjfy9l_E2_AlygI6jrVSuP4bzejdrZDvlKyuz4d4BNRUPq4bi8Rbg-rHNbx8S96CiZ7eocE6KTLlRnUX1sDGdFrtlEZsV7H-5F_2Z-zEgaHbTLrii44QI409KxkxEUNap5dhIKiLun/s640/IMG_8695.jpeg" width="480" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgE1PeOd5MqFneTV5MEBDL9IHqXw4QyH7SLZCYJR-uDSAYflc0VZ5EcwEMftuCU7zZYCquznwYSryS9BqmTiZYZEqSsCtS5EVpcjb1CjLq9sPPsxaNvK2AFhOBNdh8zV7d-GDWuflgt7VhT/s1600/IMG_8696.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgE1PeOd5MqFneTV5MEBDL9IHqXw4QyH7SLZCYJR-uDSAYflc0VZ5EcwEMftuCU7zZYCquznwYSryS9BqmTiZYZEqSsCtS5EVpcjb1CjLq9sPPsxaNvK2AFhOBNdh8zV7d-GDWuflgt7VhT/s320/IMG_8696.jpeg" width="240" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><b><i>“For my thoughts are not your thoughts,</i></b></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><b><i><span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span><span style="font-kerning: none;">neither are your ways my ways,”</span></i></b></span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><b><i>declares the Lord.</i></b></span></span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><b><i>“As the heavens are higher than the earth,</i></b></span></span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><b><i><span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span><span style="font-kerning: none;">so are my ways higher than your ways</span></i></b></span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><b><i><span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span><span style="font-kerning: none;">and my thoughts than your thoughts. (Is. 55:8-9)</span></i></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">God, please continue to give us YOUR thoughts… lead us… guide us… you know your plans for each individual that we connect with today.</span></span></div>
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<div style="background-color: white; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><b><i>You will go out in joy</i></b></span></span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><b><i><span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span><span style="font-kerning: none;">and be led forth in peace; (Is. 55:12)</span></i></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">God has brought so much joy to our team… in the midst of the hard, we feel his peace.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><b><i>This will be for the Lord’s renown,</i></b></span></span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; text-align: center;">
<b><i><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span><span style="font-kerning: none;">for an everlasting sign,</span></span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span><span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">that will endure forever. (Is. 55:13)</span></i></b></div>
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<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>ALL FOR GOD’S GLORY…</b></span></span></div>
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Our Journeyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00160172429148991941noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5465087746770015555.post-8835991827719368432019-08-30T11:18:00.002-04:002021-11-05T06:21:42.065-04:00Back to the Routine - What's Your Story?<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsrZfSYxYGiQBP3pM5b9D1pUp_kP6X2vM-_OLKCct99_EdwK_bkI4MlFb9m-DohuA8DBWuKAgtfcsm5Buzf3FU5piS7sC5H-NwZMgtHzo3VIq3aRafZExyMXIV_uVFhG7pznfrw_a9bt4q/s1600/1UvBqTzHBcvfCZsY8ltWbbxbrSHFhIirAkGwdnDxyR_S0U_td9ttX8OvECXyFRfsGjsvgVRA7MngPU6pKX8P0Wk8jhC2dteX3xCJFPbKsufRWtKYFIuwrwhaRl81eI0D9za4ePBq8xOJE8MBrnl-3IP9UB18y3pk0vzmFAMjwtwZroY5hPD0gEbIXy1iNwdHgl8YTok5-35q0PEH5Qnnb26ogRk.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="681" data-original-width="714" height="190" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsrZfSYxYGiQBP3pM5b9D1pUp_kP6X2vM-_OLKCct99_EdwK_bkI4MlFb9m-DohuA8DBWuKAgtfcsm5Buzf3FU5piS7sC5H-NwZMgtHzo3VIq3aRafZExyMXIV_uVFhG7pznfrw_a9bt4q/s200/1UvBqTzHBcvfCZsY8ltWbbxbrSHFhIirAkGwdnDxyR_S0U_td9ttX8OvECXyFRfsGjsvgVRA7MngPU6pKX8P0Wk8jhC2dteX3xCJFPbKsufRWtKYFIuwrwhaRl81eI0D9za4ePBq8xOJE8MBrnl-3IP9UB18y3pk0vzmFAMjwtwZroY5hPD0gEbIXy1iNwdHgl8YTok5-35q0PEH5Qnnb26ogRk.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Getting ready to do 3 days with over 500 kids</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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<b><span style="font-family: "times"; font-size: 24.0pt;"></span></b><span style="font-family: "times"; font-size: 10.0pt;">It
is labor day weekend. If you're like me, you're mourning the gradual
retreat of the warm weather, vacations and that overall summer feeling.
It's over and willingly or not you are part of the back-to-school, back-to-work,
back to the grind. Or, maybe you are one of those excited about getting back
into the routine? Right on!</span></div>
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Let me take you down a <i>thought wormhole</i> for a while. Have you ever
considered how these cycles and patterns are ingrained into the fabric of our
being? Take a look at something micro - <i>did you know that it takes
approximately 1 minute for a circular blood cell to cycle through your body and
get back to your heart? </i>Amazing! Now for the macro - <i>our entire universe
is actually spiraling through space and time.</i> Cosmic! Not to mention the
cycle on a clock, seasons and weather, the ocean tides, a flower turning back
to seed...<br />
<br />
...</span><b><span style="font-family: "times"; font-size: 13.5pt;">we are surrounded by cycles and circles and could go on all
day naming them. </span></b><span style="font-family: "times"; font-size: 10.0pt;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><br />
These life cycles are all part of the created order. They are intentional and a
part of your story, our story, humanity's story & ultimately God's
story. Everything depends on a cycle or routine to replenish, recharge,
renew and ultimately redeem. But as you know, life doesn't always go as
planned. An enemy has affected the normal order and wants to destroy
it. Does this sound a little like the plot to your favorite story? It
does and you love it because it resonates and speaks to your soul.<br />
</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><br />
</span><b><span style="font-family: "times"; font-size: 13.5pt;">"So, what's your story?"</span></b><span style="font-family: "times"; font-size: 10.0pt;"></span></div>
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As you get back into your routine, I want to encourage you to ask someone this
same question. "So, What's your story?" Our stories can
be inter-weaved if we allow them to. We were created to share our
stories. You might be amazed at how just asking this question can even
transform you to the point that life no longer feels like a boring
routine. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times"; font-size: 10.0pt;">So, embrace the cycle and routine but do it intentionally. Share
your story; particularly if it is a broken one. Perhaps, that is how you
will help someone else find redemption. Don't let the enemy destroy you at the
heart of your routine. Let us recognize the real story and be
participants in each other's story. <br />
<br />
<b>by Brad Matlack - Director</b></span></div>
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-->Our Journeyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00160172429148991941noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5465087746770015555.post-87424429031389825032019-08-30T10:58:00.000-04:002021-11-05T06:21:45.738-04:00We are The Circle Story<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRCCZzOBw5EKcpChS8nQkJMLVlORozF_8daol_nX9JDCLR9ES_GAmbyxKTVBXo2FiEe09JAGa1zMqs31TcMe3YNsSjMG15lvEq7pnLFfuj_NdC3SubYwEsUBl79WWw86dMme-V9-oZW2Lx/s1600/logo+full.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="566" data-original-width="1080" height="167" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRCCZzOBw5EKcpChS8nQkJMLVlORozF_8daol_nX9JDCLR9ES_GAmbyxKTVBXo2FiEe09JAGa1zMqs31TcMe3YNsSjMG15lvEq7pnLFfuj_NdC3SubYwEsUBl79WWw86dMme-V9-oZW2Lx/s320/logo+full.PNG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div>
We have launched our new nonprofit 501c(3) organization <a href="http://thecirclestory.com/" target="_blank">"The Circle Story, Inc"</a></div>
<div>
Go and visit to learn about the vision. Our work, organization and giving platform now falls underneath this umbrella. For inquiries you can email: <a href="mailto:brad@thecirclestory.com">brad@thecirclestory.com</a></div>
Our Journeyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00160172429148991941noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5465087746770015555.post-88132148347575117672019-06-29T10:26:00.001-04:002021-11-05T06:21:45.818-04:00We are now Our Journeyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00160172429148991941noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5465087746770015555.post-23416874741524026372019-05-29T02:28:00.001-04:002021-11-05T06:21:42.761-04:00I'm Changed!!!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimwcE_pHB3F7HaIXlD1ZYO1LSoibIL6C34_IHGCi3oThoJyDsKISZYEB0pWcuojhCJwemP3X419aefNDZ4F9Rvn9fpoD4PQdO9r7xpyfFcsQoFY3-pGulipq_fWrgFqOVuFOnSjXgV5E2o/s1600/d0029ef5-f218-4f31-af37-2ee36874f963.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimwcE_pHB3F7HaIXlD1ZYO1LSoibIL6C34_IHGCi3oThoJyDsKISZYEB0pWcuojhCJwemP3X419aefNDZ4F9Rvn9fpoD4PQdO9r7xpyfFcsQoFY3-pGulipq_fWrgFqOVuFOnSjXgV5E2o/s640/d0029ef5-f218-4f31-af37-2ee36874f963.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">"I'm changed!"</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">"I'm changed!"</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">She exclaimed it over and over... then told us all what had happened. The night before, she had been paid. She took the money to the shop. Bought vegetables and ugali, and went home to cook for her household.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Doesn't sound like such a big deal -until you know her story.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">She joined our Addiction Assistance group back in February. Since then, she has come to almost every meeting... drunk. She came to our beadwork room, and even rolled paper beads. But, she was most often the one who started fights, or stole others' work.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Then, about a week and a half ago, she came to us, broken. This life is over for me. I HAVE to stop drinking. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Since then, she has been sober every day. Gentle. Helpful. GOD is at work in her heart!!!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Yesterday, during our daily Bible study she recognized it herself... "I'm changed!"</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">This morning, as I reflect and praise GOD for His work in her life, I had to reflect on my own life as well... because this transformation is for ALL of us! How am I growing? Can I see growth in my life? </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">God, please keep on changing me!!!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b style="font-family: Lato; font-size: 16px; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">"Our perspective should be less about how we are going to fix the materially poor and more about how we can WALK TOGETHER, asking God to fix us both."<br />Brad Matlack</span></i></span></b></span><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white;">Do not be conformed to this world,</span><span style="background-color: white;"> but be transformed by </span><span class="crossreference" data-cr="#cen-ESV-28232B" data-link="(<a href="#cen-ESV-28232B" title="See cross-reference B">B</a>)" style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 22px; position: relative; top: 0px; vertical-align: top;"></span><span style="background-color: white;">the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may </span><span class="crossreference" data-cr="#cen-ESV-28232C" data-link="(<a href="#cen-ESV-28232C" title="See cross-reference C">C</a>)" style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 22px; position: relative; top: 0px; vertical-align: top;"></span></span><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect. Romans 12:2</span></span></b></div>
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</span>Our Journeyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00160172429148991941noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5465087746770015555.post-57387173117148742922018-10-31T11:55:00.001-04:002021-11-05T06:21:43.911-04:00Only in knowing the truth can we ever be free from the fear<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I remember my first ultrasound so well…</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The joy</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The anticipation</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">It was an event - a celebration!!!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Yesterday, I took Irene for her first ultrasound. She had no idea when her due date might be. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Desperation had taken her to a home where she had found shelter in exchange for her sexual services to the trail of men who came through the door. One dollar per partner.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">In complete despair one day, she entered a church here in Ngando. Prayers and a listening ear brought her back again and even again. As she shared more of her story, God pushed us to figure out how we could help her more.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Our first doctor’s visit was about the sickness that ravaged her body. Thin, weak, wrecked by outbreaks all over her body… plus the fear of what hidden disease could have invaded her blood…</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">She wanted to refuse the HIV test. In her mind just not knowing was better… Lovingly, we talked her through. <b><i>Only in knowing the truth can we ever be free from the fear. </i></b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I held her hand in the waiting room. The anguish in her sobs dug deep into my soul. My throat still chokes up as I remember. The fear of learning the truth…</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">As we received all the results, Irene was flooded with relief and gratefulness. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">HIV… negative</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">But, none of us were expecting the next result.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Pregnancy… positive</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">And now, two weeks later, we found ourselves in that waiting room again. I realized that she had no idea what to expect. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I googled photos of a 4 month fetus. Showed her how her baby might be sucking his thumb.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>And, for the first time since I had met her weeks before, she smiled.</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Oh God, please bring joy and hope back for this young girl!!!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b><i>Healing is so much deeper than the skin issues, nutrition, and even a safe place to live! When rejection has run deep, only the TRUTH of God’s LOVE can fill in those gaps!</i></b></span><br />
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<i><span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Verdana, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif;">The </span><span class="small-caps" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Verdana, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-caps: small-caps; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal;">Lord</span><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Verdana, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Verdana, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif;">is a shelter for the oppressed,</span></span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="indent-1-breaks" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: monospace; line-height: 0;"> </span><span class="text Ps-9-9" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; position: relative;">a refuge in times of trouble.</span></span></i></div>
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<i><span class="text Ps-9-9" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; position: relative;">Psalm 9:9</span></i></div>
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<br />Our Journeyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00160172429148991941noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5465087746770015555.post-28893179409377435892018-09-11T14:51:00.002-04:002021-11-05T06:21:43.087-04:00Sign up for a news letter (on the side bar above or click "read more" to the right)<!-- Begin MailChimp Signup Form --><br />
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<!--End mc_embed_signup-->Our Journeyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00160172429148991941noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5465087746770015555.post-73836258332799615352018-09-06T09:53:00.000-04:002021-11-05T06:21:45.156-04:00Renaming "GWV" to "Tazama Nia"<div data-contents="true">
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<span data-offset-key="de9ct-0-0"><span data-text="true"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfyZmc4EDjcdvQmy3k5lVBM4JTfxw1SkL3aO1uL0MdnatyxV-VDXrM_xm6nZ-oy0lCOWVLpDwLuYu9Aw4naBrqoZsrEEguJJmoJLa9ps_lC0yGGJvRS9_1PNw58t_HDTcfEn2Lynx3Zxhf/s1600/9A10D1C3-18F9-413C-AA02-EA2F204F4141.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfyZmc4EDjcdvQmy3k5lVBM4JTfxw1SkL3aO1uL0MdnatyxV-VDXrM_xm6nZ-oy0lCOWVLpDwLuYu9Aw4naBrqoZsrEEguJJmoJLa9ps_lC0yGGJvRS9_1PNw58t_HDTcfEn2Lynx3Zxhf/s320/9A10D1C3-18F9-413C-AA02-EA2F204F4141.JPG" width="240" /></a></span></span></div>
<span data-offset-key="de9ct-0-0"><span data-text="true"><b>Announcement: </b>We are in the process of rebranding and renaming the jewelry/beadwork our women's group makes. In an effort to bring our work on the ground under one mission, we have decided to rename "Girls With Vision" to <b>"Tazama Nia"</b> <i>(Kiswahili) "looking ahead with anticipation"</i>, which still carries the same meaning. Our vision and the work all remain the same. We are pulling all of our community development efforts under one name and vision. You can visit our new website: t<a href="http://tazamania.com/" target="_blank">azamania.com</a> to get a more holistic view of all the work. </span></span></div>
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Our Journeyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00160172429148991941noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5465087746770015555.post-9584193983382975862018-09-03T23:51:00.001-04:002021-11-05T06:21:42.238-04:00<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Just uploaded a new video from our most recent Kids Bible Club outreach. </div>
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3 days, 4 churches, almost 500 kids, more than 30 volunteers.</div>
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Summit Church, Orlando joined us for this one.</div>
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<br />Our Journeyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00160172429148991941noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5465087746770015555.post-90040843580569183822018-08-27T07:35:00.000-04:002021-11-05T06:21:45.984-04:00To Every Mama With a Disabled Angel<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">I've always had a deep admiration for mamas who love and raise a child with a disability. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">I know that GOD has favored them - that they have amazing grace, love and beauty that God sees as He entrusts them with a child with any special need.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">To each of you, who sacrifice... love and care for an angel in ways that only GOD can see, thank you.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZKTu6ovL32vMu_j0LkCI4sBUjeMexMyV5G-TSmxYj9MkRLXSFn2Zx7bFYrmGUBqh46mA8koFVDUVeaBvxWL4vUSxntoqLaCeI_fA9oulvV5AcDfmtiGUXF9oGclzDJTEk1wadt4ZVe_Wf/s1600/IMG_6405+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="810" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZKTu6ovL32vMu_j0LkCI4sBUjeMexMyV5G-TSmxYj9MkRLXSFn2Zx7bFYrmGUBqh46mA8koFVDUVeaBvxWL4vUSxntoqLaCeI_fA9oulvV5AcDfmtiGUXF9oGclzDJTEk1wadt4ZVe_Wf/s640/IMG_6405+2.jpg" width="322" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Today I want to honor one mama whom I've had the incredible JOY of walking with over the last few years.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">We met when one of the churches in our slum area introduced us... Carol - the mama of 3 beautiful girls. Annitta is the oldest. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">She has never spoken... </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">never taken a step... </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">never fed herself...</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg595SI1hOHqN8j6uqv0r-kMgMhi_BJb6LQo_SGCJHLZ8_LCLxByyIYRnnWx6F6ATA_-9OYVjrUhieoMd-JeIMwEl81i6KNFFp6MTQC-HyyDxyHE3jD3lbXdNfvAyxuCGYGvA14KCbgaLQB/s1600/IMG_0648.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="566" data-original-width="960" height="376" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg595SI1hOHqN8j6uqv0r-kMgMhi_BJb6LQo_SGCJHLZ8_LCLxByyIYRnnWx6F6ATA_-9OYVjrUhieoMd-JeIMwEl81i6KNFFp6MTQC-HyyDxyHE3jD3lbXdNfvAyxuCGYGvA14KCbgaLQB/s640/IMG_0648.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">With the terrible "roads" here in our community, a wheelchair would never work...</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">So, Mama Annitta has </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>carried her </b></span><span style="font-size: large;"><b style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">every single place</b><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">she has ever gone. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOEpeiZWUiBCI98zalCITBLuVLzpe9vhN86CotxFmhUgBsQzHJWRNnV2E6n3vU6J0dQDErn5EHgTt178T_w3YlSMswGSOmajEdNvBDN42AxLc0dg7RMi-5OkyRDmP3mLDNa6kM4-fat2av/s1600/IMG_5635.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOEpeiZWUiBCI98zalCITBLuVLzpe9vhN86CotxFmhUgBsQzHJWRNnV2E6n3vU6J0dQDErn5EHgTt178T_w3YlSMswGSOmajEdNvBDN42AxLc0dg7RMi-5OkyRDmP3mLDNa6kM4-fat2av/s320/IMG_5635.jpg" width="240" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">I have never heard a word of complaint from her lips. Mama Annitta has been left by her husband - who refused to accept his daughter with her struggles. She has fought on alone. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>Carrying her girl...</b> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">over rough roads and onto public transportation... </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">all with JOY.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP8XroTNcl2MxBqCmfftt5ZQqCqeOshOTqcyxhn71-oIWt7VVmUYIu75jYB6vbZesDSOahuj99TBnS8FPFr6Th4wOmnRdON6BILJzWdpbHZqL1wVycpYIikS90LhhYOAh77qGsJhQl5Q47/s1600/IMG_6405.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP8XroTNcl2MxBqCmfftt5ZQqCqeOshOTqcyxhn71-oIWt7VVmUYIu75jYB6vbZesDSOahuj99TBnS8FPFr6Th4wOmnRdON6BILJzWdpbHZqL1wVycpYIikS90LhhYOAh77qGsJhQl5Q47/s320/IMG_6405.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Does that even sound right? It sounds like a hard life - but truly, from the bottom of her heart, Carol LOVED her daughter - and found JOY in her!</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbJcv2R56CCu58_MbaYDvhNpWiFMJB1xKz1taywCRNpW-COo1O5C-gdVhB1TCBb2lYmPD0oKaaVZndeYF5ocxco-tGfuJ0_9egyeYQwZSzjMmT_fmIFl_t2BsYMYgKsOvCcuJbd4MK3qbR/s1600/IMG_7987.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1308" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbJcv2R56CCu58_MbaYDvhNpWiFMJB1xKz1taywCRNpW-COo1O5C-gdVhB1TCBb2lYmPD0oKaaVZndeYF5ocxco-tGfuJ0_9egyeYQwZSzjMmT_fmIFl_t2BsYMYgKsOvCcuJbd4MK3qbR/s320/IMG_7987.jpg" width="261" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">This weekend, I was filled with deep emotion as I watched Mama Annitta </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>carry her girl for the last time</b>. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">She boldly took the handle of the coffin and walked to the grave along with all the strong young men who had been asked to help.</span></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTtrJsqWOuLQEzXSiQhezCqOqGLxYWWmlelAmhTBYR9cLCGB3otHSV-Eva3aTXJzzu6rP_d4tQgaVvZSRmh4Mlz8hMWJ8NbA-yoxX7DpFq7wlYHeA5FAg-0WRjAa3sUsv2teGGu82QPcBZ/s1600/IMG_7992.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1145" data-original-width="1600" height="458" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTtrJsqWOuLQEzXSiQhezCqOqGLxYWWmlelAmhTBYR9cLCGB3otHSV-Eva3aTXJzzu6rP_d4tQgaVvZSRmh4Mlz8hMWJ8NbA-yoxX7DpFq7wlYHeA5FAg-0WRjAa3sUsv2teGGu82QPcBZ/s640/IMG_7992.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mama Annitta in the back, holding the middle handle of Annitta's coffin</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Carol, </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">I pray for you now - with your empty arms...</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">I have no platitudes to offer.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">My prayer is that just as you have carried your girl these last 16 years, that you will feel carried by your Heavenly Father as you walk forward.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><i>The LORD is the strength of his people</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><i>He is the saving refuge</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><i>...save your people...</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><i>Be their shepherd and <b>CARRY them forever</b></i></span></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Psalm 28:8-9</span></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Thank you for everything you have taught me!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">I pray that some of your JOY and LOVE flow though me as a result of the time I've gotten to spend with you and with your precious girl, Annitta!</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSFkcO43C8dVomhA4bBx5iWdPmIvM986VfAme-kkFoWjM_K_uCSlnVoCAHFaTrh02wnxzJbYEmam8AhskSuLoSiuoIwE5_Kg8O-B4JAGOPi3QRB4XgsT6u5IujGcgy4rppyMqiIjye9wFP/s1600/IMG_7988.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="1280" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSFkcO43C8dVomhA4bBx5iWdPmIvM986VfAme-kkFoWjM_K_uCSlnVoCAHFaTrh02wnxzJbYEmam8AhskSuLoSiuoIwE5_Kg8O-B4JAGOPi3QRB4XgsT6u5IujGcgy4rppyMqiIjye9wFP/s320/IMG_7988.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<br />Our Journeyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00160172429148991941noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5465087746770015555.post-31312166865272667922018-03-26T11:12:00.000-04:002021-11-05T06:21:43.168-04:00When the Storm Swirls, There is REFUGE!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuwqslezXM_zNdroYiGhQ1FU8f_orUsBZEY8E_Q1OlH9XsyEG6fRhF7mLdIpdba9uehIRx2h2lb4rvlhvEjkWL2DDycy_wtQ3_wqZGwU7mgZ7o0lEdsQ_WIvVnHO9BEagi_DYqoK6KuGp4/s1600/IMG_5070+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="531" data-original-width="640" height="530" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuwqslezXM_zNdroYiGhQ1FU8f_orUsBZEY8E_Q1OlH9XsyEG6fRhF7mLdIpdba9uehIRx2h2lb4rvlhvEjkWL2DDycy_wtQ3_wqZGwU7mgZ7o0lEdsQ_WIvVnHO9BEagi_DYqoK6KuGp4/s640/IMG_5070+2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">About a week ago, it rained... and rained... and rained.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">We'd actually been praying for rain! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">But, the result of our prayers being answered ALL at once was devastating to many homes built in slum areas here in Nairobi.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">As we woke up throughout the night, with the rain pounding hour after hour on our tin roof, I couldn't help thinking about our neighbors whose houses were undoubtedly flooding.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">The same homes flood every rainy season. It's the newest families that move there - during the dry season. Usually the poorest of the poor, as the rent there is very low - for obvious reasons. Often these families don't have any furniture - which makes the flooding all the more devastating (nothing is off the floor). The rising water also affects every pit latrine, so the flood water is not just rain water... not even just muddy water - but water filled with sewage from these overflowing outhouses.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlgEJe3plw0VMEHY2fGI5ff6mlTTbMsL847bQl4mjfxgWHCkBzoyBbEo1ebo9_MvC-N_7S1Xyg-gRbKqp8MG2btGe1GQgl2ihbpV36YQbIXGu9cErSVzymtOe2vAkP_7-7BtNM8syk-XWY/s1600/IMG_5075.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlgEJe3plw0VMEHY2fGI5ff6mlTTbMsL847bQl4mjfxgWHCkBzoyBbEo1ebo9_MvC-N_7S1Xyg-gRbKqp8MG2btGe1GQgl2ihbpV36YQbIXGu9cErSVzymtOe2vAkP_7-7BtNM8syk-XWY/s320/IMG_5075.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">As soon as the rain slowed to a drizzle, Brad and I met a pastor and set out to visit the homes that we knew must have flooded.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">There were many, each with their own story - but I want to tell you about one.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">As we approached the home, a mama peeked her head out the door. She had already washed </span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">the family's beddings </span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">and hung them out to "dry" - the continuing showers made the prospect of anything actually drying hopeless - but she was doing the best that she could! Her two children were stocking footed on the cold, damp cement floor. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">They were all just standing inside. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">There was no furniture. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">No place to rest. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Nothing dry to cuddle up in. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">The only "mattress" was the less than 1" thick piece of home, dripping on the line outside.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">What haunted me after we prayed with this little lost family was the look in this mama's eyes. My heart felt the pull of her hopelessness. How would anything dry for tonight? Obviously, there were no funds to run out and buy some new blankets. Then, the promise of rain the next night and the next and the next were surely very high (it's rainy season after all)! Would her children get sick? How would they survive this situation?</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">I left with a deep, deep sorrow.... </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>But GOD had also seen this Mama's eyes.</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">As Brad and I talked, trying to discern our own next step, God literally had me bump into someone who had a bed to offer this family! By that night, she and her children had a "safe" place to sleep - even if the flooding came back, their bed and new mattress would stay dry!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Most importantly, this MAMA knows - GOD saw her - cared about her - and miraculously brought HOPE into her situation!!! </span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjt0BHZSOic2l1qN0GHV5uLF7wRblIGNBjuaCAVGqIO-daMIN-mdqUdc6XZC7xrxYV38lF5HB2nf4PDIuDrRuxvgsbCYoQx-PAsSXWeDBMLaP3CSXZTHB4qUqJHDOWYDBGsMIHAO_DwAbZ6/s1600/IMG_5077.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjt0BHZSOic2l1qN0GHV5uLF7wRblIGNBjuaCAVGqIO-daMIN-mdqUdc6XZC7xrxYV38lF5HB2nf4PDIuDrRuxvgsbCYoQx-PAsSXWeDBMLaP3CSXZTHB4qUqJHDOWYDBGsMIHAO_DwAbZ6/s400/IMG_5077.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The water line on the tin wall shows how high the water had gotten overnight.</td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhu9gTum-ASTPrVE2Ux0S7xAoocA7mgcYAlbu6emZ6HOUzuqOWlt2NqQVFqZXi3e2_NRu4p_6yo2peXCQd7Ar948tCvA1jeXAjpHPItDq2FwEUt3Cz51kfY8b8nYLlaenJlQx5_OSwx6lcS/s1600/IMG_5083.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhu9gTum-ASTPrVE2Ux0S7xAoocA7mgcYAlbu6emZ6HOUzuqOWlt2NqQVFqZXi3e2_NRu4p_6yo2peXCQd7Ar948tCvA1jeXAjpHPItDq2FwEUt3Cz51kfY8b8nYLlaenJlQx5_OSwx6lcS/s320/IMG_5083.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjz1M5PrH_ge2wpxbIU78lNdLB04xlhpWhcGuFRGRZov4J8uyFlGpxfScUHoEpJoqrPcBNPgyHvCDmVSV5N89WwuaXOAoBtxL_JNDV6eNseYuTUxKRnC6Y93pb9L1LffU7_2XKjlMDZBsdV/s1600/IMG_5087.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjz1M5PrH_ge2wpxbIU78lNdLB04xlhpWhcGuFRGRZov4J8uyFlGpxfScUHoEpJoqrPcBNPgyHvCDmVSV5N89WwuaXOAoBtxL_JNDV6eNseYuTUxKRnC6Y93pb9L1LffU7_2XKjlMDZBsdV/s320/IMG_5087.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">I've had a mental picture of this little family in my mind for the last week.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">They felt so alone and forgotten. They literally had nowhere to turn!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">They didn't ask for help.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">But GOD saw them.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">He chose to lead us to their home.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">He longed to bring HOPE to this Mama in a tangible way!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">And we pray that this God - encounter will bring this family to HIM!</span></div>
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<span class="text Ps-46-1" style="box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "verdana" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px; position: relative;"><br /></span></div>
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<span class="text Ps-46-1" style="box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "verdana" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px; position: relative;">God is our refuge and strength,</span></div>
<span class="indent-1" style="box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "verdana" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px;"><span class="indent-1-breaks" style="box-sizing: border-box; font-family: monospace; font-size: 0.42em; line-height: 0;"> </span><span class="text Ps-46-1" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; position: relative;">always ready to help in times of trouble.</span></span><br />
<span class="text Ps-46-2" id="en-NLT-14593" style="box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "verdana" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px; position: relative;"><span class="versenum" style="box-sizing: border-box; display: block; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 12px; font-weight: bold; left: -4.4em; line-height: 22px; position: absolute; top: 0px; vertical-align: top;"> </span>So we will not fear when earthquakes come</span><br />
<span class="indent-1" style="box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "verdana" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px;"><span class="indent-1-breaks" style="box-sizing: border-box; font-family: monospace; font-size: 0.42em; line-height: 0;"> </span><span class="text Ps-46-2" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; position: relative;">and the mountains crumble into the sea.</span></span><br />
<span class="text Ps-46-3" id="en-NLT-14594" style="box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "verdana" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px; position: relative;"><span class="versenum" style="box-sizing: border-box; display: block; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 12px; font-weight: bold; left: -4.4em; line-height: 22px; position: absolute; top: 0px; vertical-align: top;"> </span>Let the oceans roar and foam.</span><br />
<span class="indent-1" style="box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "verdana" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px;"><span class="indent-1-breaks" style="box-sizing: border-box; font-family: monospace; font-size: 0.42em; line-height: 0;"> </span><span class="text Ps-46-3" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; position: relative;">Let the mountains tremble as the waters surge! </span></span><br />
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<span class="indent-1" style="box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "verdana" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px;"><span class="text Ps-46-3" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; position: relative;">Psalm 46:1-3</span></span></div>
Our Journeyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00160172429148991941noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5465087746770015555.post-69795990060484893142017-11-21T05:15:00.002-05:002021-11-05T06:21:44.741-04:00When the HIV test comes back positive.<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; background-color: white; font-size: 16px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Last Sunday morning, the worship song repeated over and over…</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">“The earth is filled with His glory”</span></span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">“The earth is filled with His glory”</span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9SE82ekND_ln25HwzdD7g_kJ8NK0vgn_gubqVnD5YQ1q0taCvk0hWq7_KLiNRbkmkPAqwi_usjR2Afj0zchmGiVf66it2d-TPLWGnJc4kxHYS0nWO_QJWNLTBK-AFWlBygR-YMqM-uYvU/s1600/IMG_9725.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9SE82ekND_ln25HwzdD7g_kJ8NK0vgn_gubqVnD5YQ1q0taCvk0hWq7_KLiNRbkmkPAqwi_usjR2Afj0zchmGiVf66it2d-TPLWGnJc4kxHYS0nWO_QJWNLTBK-AFWlBygR-YMqM-uYvU/s640/IMG_9725.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I couldn’t sing along. All that kept going through my head was the pain and suffering that seems to be filling every corner I look into. I wasn’t sure where that glory was hiding! It seems that the earth is filled with …just plain HARD… UNFAIR… HURT… SUFFERING…</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Then today, I was asked by a pastor to join him in taking a very sick mama to the hospital. Another story of horrible grief. Gang raped… abandoned by her husband for another… And so sickly that when I met the mama, fear gripped me - I don't know if she will live! </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I sat in the small, stuffy HIV testing tent with her as we awaited results. </span></span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The doctor returned with the answer... </span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large; font-weight: bold;">Positive.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><b><i><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Where is your glory God?</span></i></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Her tears… her questions… her main concern - <i>my baby is too young for me to die</i>!</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><b><i><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Oh God, where is your glory in this situation!</span></i></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Then, I looked around the benches. A pastor and 2 mamas from the church were surrounding her with compassion… </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><i><b><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">God was bringing his glory through their eyes and words - through their LOVE!</span></b></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">A minute later, a familiar face walked into the clinic, a friend who has experience with HIV for some time. I choked up as I watched her interact with a new victim of this dreaded disease. She walked her home… promised to visit tomorrow… prayed… and most of all, offered HOPE - you won’t die!</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><b><i><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">God was bringing his glory through someone's own story of suffering - through her offer of HOPE!</span></i></b></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpOpnuktlrOSkkXw_Bqas8hpw21wydU7pAHHgUKjbiNKHxCK2cTLnq7mdnMntOcCS_LpUNDxBjbcMz7zTAKHyEUYD8Efnr42CkYCLEXdTR1GAwKS40vTRC5k2WJtlh13Ksk9PVmrtYI6ES/s1600/IMG_3278.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1250" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpOpnuktlrOSkkXw_Bqas8hpw21wydU7pAHHgUKjbiNKHxCK2cTLnq7mdnMntOcCS_LpUNDxBjbcMz7zTAKHyEUYD8Efnr42CkYCLEXdTR1GAwKS40vTRC5k2WJtlh13Ksk9PVmrtYI6ES/s640/IMG_3278.jpg" width="498" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">My favorite photo of the day... one mama walking a very sick mama home</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I knew the mama was too weak to care for herself in any way. I learned that 3 ladies from the church are taking turns checking in on her, cooking and caring for her. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><b><i><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">God’s glory being proclaimed through their SACRIFICE.</span></i></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I’m no theologian… just wondering…</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Maybe God’s glory isn’t forced on this earth. Actually, when the world just goes its own way, God doesn’t usually receive a whole lot of glory. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><i><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Maybe that’s just up to me… up to you… up to all of us, who feel suffocated by suffering but need to breathe hope into one life, one situation, one home, one person’s eyes.</span></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">And bring glory to God.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I think perhaps we need to rework that worship song a little - and I’m not a poet either… or I would. </span></span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This earth isn't filled with God's glory... until we, God's people bring His HOPE, His LOVE, His SACRIFICE into dark places.</span></span></div>
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Our Journeyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00160172429148991941noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5465087746770015555.post-67371603995381874372017-09-13T05:22:00.000-04:002021-11-05T06:21:44.626-04:00Witchcraft<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<b><i>Ephesians 6:10 Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power.</i></b><br />
Every now and then strange things end up in our yard; thrown over our fence or gate. Pictured left is the latest item found at our gate this morning. A small wallet with feathers carefully placed inside, a note with a name on it, wrapped with a metal wire.<br />
My first reaction is yuk. It just looks gross. Then I wonder who would want to do such a thing and why? Who does this belong to? Is someone trying to harm us by putting a spell or curse on us? Why? Is this the enemy's attempt at trying to scare us?<br />
Witchcraft is common here in Kenya. It is connected to traditional religion and the black spiritual realm. There are witch doctors and seers in our community. Even our next door neighbor has been know to do black magic. <br />
It does not surprise us when the devil tries to scare us, steal our joy, or throw a curse at us. But the enemy knows that his days are numbered, Jesus said "it is finished", we are covered by the blood of Jesus. The devil's schemes will not work against us. We will not give in to fear and let such things paralyze or slow us down.<br />
Many people here are lost in this darkness. Someone, a person obviously planted this "charm" in our gate thinking it will affect us somehow. I am saddened by their ignorance and relieved by my covering in Christ. There is a common belief here and likely in most cultures that God and the devil are equals. The common good vs. evil story. The spiritual realm is vibrant and active in the daily circumstances of life here. No-one would deny the presence of spirits, particularly evil ones. What is not know is that God, the Creator, is far superior than the devil and all things. God's power is far greater and able to overcome anything that the enemy puts in front of us. "It is finished" counts for today. I claim it and remind the enemy of this fact. Jesus and his heavenly hosts are at work, defeating the enemy and protecting us, his children. He has even empowered us, by his name, to fight the fight against such things. Praise God!<br />
I went on to burn the items I found this morning, prayerfully claiming Jesus' protection over us and praying for the person who planted it in our yard. They need to know Jesus. We don't know if the name on the piece of paper is somehow connected. May she also know God's protection. <br />
We will continue to tell the truth, share the Good News and teach the story in the scriptures, so that others may be free from this bondage and devilish schemes. May God be glorified! <i>Ephesians 6:10 Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power.</i>Our Journeyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00160172429148991941noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5465087746770015555.post-38202702497143922382017-05-17T07:38:00.000-04:002021-11-05T06:21:43.418-04:00Will you please sign my name?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Brad was honored to be invited to a community civic meeting...</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Helping to educate the poor before elections, informing them of their rights, and hearing their voices...</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">He sat in the back.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">The community made space for him - "W</span><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: large;">elcome, Baba Sam".</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">You are one of us.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">He happened to sit next to a mama we know. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"><i>The meeting was deep... </i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"><i>the poor voiced their hurt...</i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"><i>their lack of representation... </i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"><i>their longing for justice...</i></span></div>
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">But the moment that stood out...</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Was when the register was passed around.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">With a humble look, a Mama passed Brad the pen.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"><b><i>"Will you please write my name here?"</i></b></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;">Illiteracy</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"> - it <i>showers shame</i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"> - it <i>limits employment</i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"> - it <i>dooms a mama to poverty</i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"> - and most often, <i>it spells the future of her children as well</i>...</span></div>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">My heart aches for this Mama - and so many others who don't know how to write their own name.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"><b>God knows your name, dear mama... </b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"><b>He knew you even before you were born!</b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"><b>And He loves you dearly!</b></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhF1oIcbXf914NfICbv8tFQa_Suapn3iKIldxohy4yAxIAmDb3o91vHQz3ngrkj8AsiHCoO7vTOkUEfU_dhHPUajgVj7xP1ZYo48cQuZ2c53VlmmW7lyXcmL08xcvbbMNXR3w8w83cwYpZT/s1600/IMG_7071+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="574" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhF1oIcbXf914NfICbv8tFQa_Suapn3iKIldxohy4yAxIAmDb3o91vHQz3ngrkj8AsiHCoO7vTOkUEfU_dhHPUajgVj7xP1ZYo48cQuZ2c53VlmmW7lyXcmL08xcvbbMNXR3w8w83cwYpZT/s640/IMG_7071+2.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>Our Journeyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00160172429148991941noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5465087746770015555.post-32288167166704677532017-05-15T02:04:00.001-04:002021-11-05T06:21:43.251-04:00If only I had a million dollars...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhW2aFzLj0ve_VoPeVpTeVyLhea30B9T7qgM3JPEUkgYXkcgFz29O4CCHmt0zyXYYrn7f2XcFDUVv9ltF4Y-axlDbkFCFDpBkEeiigQypXDBNIaLjr7vnxocZueNJFgECYy3Fb8E-JNJTXa/s1600/IMG_9085.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhW2aFzLj0ve_VoPeVpTeVyLhea30B9T7qgM3JPEUkgYXkcgFz29O4CCHmt0zyXYYrn7f2XcFDUVv9ltF4Y-axlDbkFCFDpBkEeiigQypXDBNIaLjr7vnxocZueNJFgECYy3Fb8E-JNJTXa/s640/IMG_9085.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><i><br /></i></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><i>If only I had a million dollars...</i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Those words actually came out of my mouth yesterday. I'm not even sure I've ever <b><i>thought</i></b> those words before! </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><b><i>... But the overwhelming grip of need overtook me </i></b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><b><i>as I walked back away from a visit.</i></b></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Earlier, I had been chatting with a group of mamas, helping to wash chairs - a Saturday rainy season job - so that when people come to church on Sunday, they will have a clean place to sit. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">A mom and her friend walked past us, then stood in front of the church. The somber mood immediately drew my attention to them. I noticed the bundled package of 2 month Abrahim was the focus.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK3vFyQ-qsSKW6B8kCJ9i7MmTdkVEk7fazTRsy7a-3xQQ-0OBaOqr-pQzJTiDIISbsvRRax_qC905cinM7qD35gHPdqhrKMEjnziowb44tysRQ2hLTtrOl3ggIya6_ObRsr7B3LFhqPpQb/s1600/IMG_8915.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK3vFyQ-qsSKW6B8kCJ9i7MmTdkVEk7fazTRsy7a-3xQQ-0OBaOqr-pQzJTiDIISbsvRRax_qC905cinM7qD35gHPdqhrKMEjnziowb44tysRQ2hLTtrOl3ggIya6_ObRsr7B3LFhqPpQb/s640/IMG_8915.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I left my "chair washing task" and joined the ladies. Abrahim was sleeping. He'd been sleeping since noon the day before - which was the last time he had eaten. 30 hours!?!? He was limp as we raised his arms. Unresponsive.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I was already picturing a late night hospital visit ... or worse yet, another infant's death in our community (there were 2 that I know of only last month).</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Together we entered the church. We must get this boy to breastfeed! As a group of mamas, we gathered, coaxed and prodded. After awhile, Abrahim awoke and ate a little. We cheered. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmUd9e3jGVhhw-BKcw47CSBAi0B_ub5zi4t5mTsRQQzSB12RujEqU6XwnZjU_ERgpWkPtsBLDncYSWS7deyRzpYUwzYI7ZkJFnr1ambGdm6R4aZMFEc5q2TPBVtx0XLnxeQvBbRc_Mo6Qr/s1600/IMG_9646.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmUd9e3jGVhhw-BKcw47CSBAi0B_ub5zi4t5mTsRQQzSB12RujEqU6XwnZjU_ERgpWkPtsBLDncYSWS7deyRzpYUwzYI7ZkJFnr1ambGdm6R4aZMFEc5q2TPBVtx0XLnxeQvBbRc_Mo6Qr/s640/IMG_9646.jpg" width="624" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">We sat together. Because sometimes in moments like these, that is what we do.... It's not all about words - it's about being... being together.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">After I stepped outside, I was told - this mama herself has not eaten in 2 days. She and her 4 children (including Abrahim) have been in a desperate place for some time. The local church has been reaching out to them. They have been responding to that love! </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><b><i>But when there is no food, then mama doesn't have much breast-milk... depression sets in... and babies get sick... and the desperate cycle spirals down and down all too fast...</i></b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZgiZkbnX8NZkwsWzrpxkUlbEk8F7dUpGi3E_rC_dBBD2pc_CDENOeG5iQ_jWG0KuYCtaoenny6k6MyKDeOrKO-g9dnbqe-wwid2b43GUeSPTux4y2iv5H49SxMzu7ZPpFbyPEvWp2Xzl6/s1600/IMG_9088.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZgiZkbnX8NZkwsWzrpxkUlbEk8F7dUpGi3E_rC_dBBD2pc_CDENOeG5iQ_jWG0KuYCtaoenny6k6MyKDeOrKO-g9dnbqe-wwid2b43GUeSPTux4y2iv5H49SxMzu7ZPpFbyPEvWp2Xzl6/s640/IMG_9088.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mama Abrahim in front of her home</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">So... this is when I wished for a million dollars. Because this is not the only hungry family that we know! Actually, there are quite a few precious kids out of school too - they lack school fees! And a church that needs some repairs. A victim who needs rent money... The list is absolutely overwhelming to us - every day! We could probably blow through a million dollars pretty quickly! Maybe I should be wishing for 2 million!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I've continued to ponder these painful stories. And my response. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">You see, as I left Mama Abrahim, I had not given her food. But I sat and prayed with her. I encouraged her that God loves her deeply. I actually wept on that visit. I long for her to find HOPE and GRACE even in her time of need.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><i>(We did send the church some money to make sure the family would eat that night!)</i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">But my brain is joggled.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Could money REALLY solve these problems? If we bring food and pay school fees yet don't bring HOPE in Jesus, what have we really done? </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">My heart aches as I pray. As I look into a mama's hungry eyes - who I know ache more for her children's hunger than her own... As the words come out of my mouth that Jesus knows and cares about her pain. That He loves her deeply. That He wants her to long for Him as much as she longs for food and safety. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I wonder... is that even possible?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Honestly? If my children were hungry would I be able to turn my heart and longings toward GOD? To find His peace and joy in the midst of my situation?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Our prayer is that as we walk with the local church that walks with this mama, we will see her find His PEACE and JOY and HOPE. She has been invited into our women's Bible Study group - which will also bring her the opportunity to learn beadwork and many other practical skills. </span><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><i><span style="font-size: large;">But, God please protect us always from the temptation of solving earthly desperation with earthly solutions (a million dollars would be great!)... without addressing the enormous eternal desperation with </span></i></b><b><i><span style="font-size: large;">God's GRACE and HOPE which are the truest, deepest answers!</span></i></b><b><i><span style="font-size: large;"></span></i></b></div>
<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivMkkNxVcXPVdGD7xKUMAEbMPRJWiMY0i7isWIxYuKxSvj2F6kJMcfz6fb-h9eQ80PXi0n6FG8bWkZnBGkyfQf7E4hFvQemmgMDjvcHBT3Vnv4VcBeeM6J848bc5S1aTdBDQARJLsUguBs/s1600/IMG_9649.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivMkkNxVcXPVdGD7xKUMAEbMPRJWiMY0i7isWIxYuKxSvj2F6kJMcfz6fb-h9eQ80PXi0n6FG8bWkZnBGkyfQf7E4hFvQemmgMDjvcHBT3Vnv4VcBeeM6J848bc5S1aTdBDQARJLsUguBs/s320/IMG_9649.jpg" width="314" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Abrahim's big brother</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b><i><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4jqxCCCvCS8TjWZ6zfrYEdK-EixD-BzQE0sHliG5Yh3QYdarXR9qdpipizl4YCNhPaCT2idDRgSNCVeq8sHgvM3XD9B2wAEy4lG95gih8N_afw5-W3ZOq3r8F3ctzwB23xw1zt_BsogAo/s1600/IMG_9651.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4jqxCCCvCS8TjWZ6zfrYEdK-EixD-BzQE0sHliG5Yh3QYdarXR9qdpipizl4YCNhPaCT2idDRgSNCVeq8sHgvM3XD9B2wAEy4lG95gih8N_afw5-W3ZOq3r8F3ctzwB23xw1zt_BsogAo/s320/IMG_9651.jpg" width="316" /></a></span></i></b></div>
<b><i><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></i></b><br />
<br />
Today, my prayer for myself is this:<br />
That I learn to DESPERATELY long for Him.<br />
That I recognize Him as more important than anything else in my life.<br />
That I see HIM as a more valuable gift to others than a million dollars would be!<br />
<br />
<h1 class="passage-display" style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 1.1; margin: 0px 0px 20px; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><i><span class="passage-display-bcv" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; display: inline; margin: 0px; padding-right: 10px;">Psalm 63:1-8</span><span class="passage-display-version" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; display: inline;">The Message </span></i></span></h1>
<h1 class="passage-display" style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 1.1; margin: 0px 0px 20px;">
</h1>
<h1 class="passage-display" style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 1.1; margin: 0px 0px 20px; text-align: center;">
<i style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><b><span class="chapter-2" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box;"><span class="text Ps-63-1" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; position: relative;"><span style="font-size: small;">God—you’re my God!</span></span></span></b></i></h1>
<h1 class="passage-display" style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 1.1; margin: 0px 0px 20px; text-align: center;">
<i style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><b><span class="indent-1" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box;"><span class="text Ps-63-1" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; position: relative;"><span style="font-size: small;">I can’t get enough of you!</span></span></span></b></i></h1>
<h1 class="passage-display" style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 1.1; margin: 0px 0px 20px; text-align: center;">
<i style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><b><span class="text Ps-63-1" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; position: relative;"><span style="font-size: small;">I’ve worked up such hunger and thirst for God, </span></span></b></i></h1>
<h1 class="passage-display" style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 1.1; margin: 0px 0px 20px; text-align: center;">
<i style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><b><span class="indent-1" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box;"><span class="text Ps-63-1" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; position: relative;"><span style="font-size: small;">traveling across dry and weary deserts.</span></span></span></b></i></h1>
<h1 class="passage-display" style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 1.1; margin: 0px 0px 20px; text-align: center;">
<i style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><b><span style="font-size: small;">So here I am in the place of worship, eyes open,</span></b></i></h1>
<h1 class="passage-display" style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 1.1; margin: 0px 0px 20px; text-align: center;">
<i style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><b><span class="text Ps-63-2-Ps-63-4" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; position: relative;"><span style="font-size: small;">drinking in your strength and glory.</span></span></b></i></h1>
<h1 class="passage-display" style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 1.1; margin: 0px 0px 20px; text-align: center;">
<i style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><b><span class="text Ps-63-2-Ps-63-4" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; position: relative;"><span style="font-size: small;">In your generous love I am really living at last!</span></span></b></i></h1>
<h1 class="passage-display" style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 1.1; margin: 0px 0px 20px; text-align: center;">
<i style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><b><span class="indent-1" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box;"><span class="text Ps-63-2-Ps-63-4" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; position: relative;"><span style="font-size: small;">My lips brim praises like fountains.</span></span></span></b></i></h1>
<h1 class="passage-display" style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 1.1; margin: 0px 0px 20px; text-align: center;">
<i style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><b><span class="text Ps-63-2-Ps-63-4" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; position: relative;"><span style="font-size: small;">I bless you every time I take a breath;</span></span></b></i></h1>
<h1 class="passage-display" style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 1.1; margin: 0px 0px 20px; text-align: center;">
<i style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><b><span class="indent-1" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box;"><span class="text Ps-63-2-Ps-63-4" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; position: relative;"><span style="font-size: small;">My arms wave like banners of praise to you.</span></span></span></b></i></h1>
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<i style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><b><span style="font-size: small;">Because you’ve always stood up for me,</span></b></i></h1>
<h1 class="passage-display" style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 1.1; margin: 0px 0px 20px; text-align: center;">
<i style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><b><span class="text Ps-63-5-Ps-63-8" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; position: relative;"><span style="font-size: small;">I’m free to run and play.</span></span></b></i></h1>
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<i style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><b><span class="text Ps-63-5-Ps-63-8" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; position: relative;"><span style="font-size: small;">I hold on to you for dear life,</span></span></b></i></h1>
<h1 class="passage-display" style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 1.1; margin: 0px 0px 20px; text-align: center;">
<i style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><b><span class="indent-1" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box;"><span class="text Ps-63-5-Ps-63-8" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; position: relative;"><span style="font-size: small;">and you hold me steady as a post.</span></span></span></b></i></h1>
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<br />Our Journeyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00160172429148991941noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5465087746770015555.post-41397338469372664582017-05-08T05:32:00.001-04:002021-11-05T06:21:43.580-04:00May this story change me... may it change you too!!!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I want to tell a story... but I'm struggling a little. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">While this story is interesting, I don't want anyone to hear it just because it's interesting - that would somehow be disrespectful to the enormous ways that lives were impacted yesterday...</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><b><i>I want to be changed by this story.</i></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><b><i><br /></i></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><b><i>I want you to be changed by this story.</i></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Saturday night, a stark text broke into our home... a 10 year old girl had been raped by her step-father. The pastor in that community took the girl home for the night. But there was no rest. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">You see, amongst the poor, there is often no justice... so the community will take it upon themselves to administer their own "justice". </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">This crime was bound to be paid for. An early morning - desperate call from our pastor friend... this man will be killed - please, can you help us find some police! As Brad arrived at the scene - only a few hundred meters from our home, he encountered an enormous mob of hundreds of men. In the front, leading the way were 2 policemen - armed with machine guns... and a shackled criminal. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">The mob followed - chanting "rapist... rapist...rapist" as he was paraded through N'gando. The pastor was in the crowd, holding the hand of the 10 year old victim. Brad followed along - staying to the side - out of the way. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">The mob made sure that the man was deposited in the cell at the chief's camp - many stayed, some dwindled back to their day. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">The "cell" is just a corner of the room where the girl and her mother (remember, she is "married" to the criminal) are questioned about the whole story. Hours passed, while Brad waited outside - with mamas who were friends of the lady - children who had followed the crowd - men who were determined to see that justice was done...</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Once the full account was recorded, the policeman came out. Brad had taken our car (which seats 5) down to the chief's camp - ready to drive the girl and her mama to the hospital. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">The police informed him that he would also be dropping the criminal off at the prison. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">So, our car carried - all together - the rapist - in the back luggage compartment. Two police, armed with their machine guns. Pastor. And mama with her baby girl who had already been through so much trauma. (That's 7 people crowded in!)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">When they left the police with their charge in the prison, Brad was asked to give fare for the police to get back to Ngando.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Now the girl and her mama were finally attended to. The hospital they went to is sponsored to treat rape victims for free... but the first thing they did was to demand 1000 shillings before seeing the girl. (This 10 dollars US may seem small - but it would have been prohibitive to this mama, whose rent, that she struggles to pay is 15 dollars). Brad questioned this charge - reminding them of their claim of philanthropy and they immediately dropped the charge. Once again, we see the poor being left out - if there is no-one there to stand up for them, they don't see justice.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Mama was handed paperwork to fill in - the look of humble bewilderment immediately revealed that she didn't know how to read. Pastor gently took on the task for her.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">And this story will go on... </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">A girl - wounded for life - may she find GOD'S love in this church that has so carefully reached into her pain. <i><span style="font-size: x-small;">(Hatua is praying for a counsellor who would be wiling to walk with her and so many other victims in our setting)</span></i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">A mama - now a single mama - struggling to provide - may she find hope in the GOD who saved her from an absolutely devastating place... may she reject the cycle of abuse and harmful men in her life... may she learn to read so that ultimately she can provide... <i><span style="font-size: x-small;">(Hatua is praying for funds to launch a literacy program for desperate mamas like this one)</span></i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">A man - whose life is now ruined by the alcohol and poor choices he had made up until now... </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">A community - who want justice - who want to protect their own - who need Jesus to flood each home.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">A church and a pastor - who faithfully walk in the middle of this pain... who tirelessly stand, give, love, and long to see lives change - because of the love of JESUS.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Brad and I see it as a privilege to get to walk into these stories... we pray that we can be faithful... that each horrible situation gives us a chance to help churches gain credibility in their settings and position to disciple people.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b><i>So, how does this story change me?</i></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b><i><br /></i></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b><i>How can this story impact you?</i></b></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I have no application... to be honest, Brad and I are still feeling that this is all surreal... right now, this story has only made me more determined to be faithful.... to keep perspective.... to focus on the eternal.... to love well...</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">(This little girl was a part of our Bible Clubs all last week!)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><i>Let's all reflect together... </i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><i>let's let suffering change us... </i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><i>to help us become more like Jesus!!!</i></span></div>
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<br />Our Journeyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00160172429148991941noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5465087746770015555.post-39566006841369019742017-04-30T08:32:00.000-04:002021-11-05T06:21:43.499-04:00Village Life In An Urban Setting<style>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHqWH6_ufgUctEBMd6g6r26k3HVTjLQJq791AX_0rgkVknvXpSi264L3zfzVX-nd9P1imAVleL9hOtMwqc4nqOFqLnX4stmMiBWl7vNs5ZdmFbjZ1FbERudWM6W4Qfo1BLDqyMTYj9irUb/s1600/tM1tJ4Tkpe8UIMiijncZcjaZBqCFmWLiaARjIwO9KJuygEYiObvZVJuHRp8DSUOgbV2swa7y45ZXit2EUSoV3cCVnr8QksS_xNGhX4ok-Cz2DEfah8RguQ-eyntZ_zMSNhytY6rfzod-WNj05LSC_MgIhyjgOMkDnXLPAaJUKE5oH1fR6Kf7CCdNmICBkcozQ9j8IpPAz7Pj9xtTvJ-FIZCDAIZ.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHqWH6_ufgUctEBMd6g6r26k3HVTjLQJq791AX_0rgkVknvXpSi264L3zfzVX-nd9P1imAVleL9hOtMwqc4nqOFqLnX4stmMiBWl7vNs5ZdmFbjZ1FbERudWM6W4Qfo1BLDqyMTYj9irUb/s320/tM1tJ4Tkpe8UIMiijncZcjaZBqCFmWLiaARjIwO9KJuygEYiObvZVJuHRp8DSUOgbV2swa7y45ZXit2EUSoV3cCVnr8QksS_xNGhX4ok-Cz2DEfah8RguQ-eyntZ_zMSNhytY6rfzod-WNj05LSC_MgIhyjgOMkDnXLPAaJUKE5oH1fR6Kf7CCdNmICBkcozQ9j8IpPAz7Pj9xtTvJ-FIZCDAIZ.jpg" width="180" /></a>Home-life in our Ngando village enables us get to know
people we otherwise would not cross paths with on a regular basis: repair guy -
things are always breaking. Repairs include – things around the house like plumbing,
electric or leaky roof. Usually works out well since labor is inexpensive. Shoes
repaired, button or clothing sewn<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>(20 shillings/cents).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Water delivery guy (these guys work hard!)- since our neighbor siblings in the homestead started arguing, we haven’t had running water coming to the house,
so we get it delivered weekly by pull cart (10 cents per 20 liters but I always
give them a little extra since they work so hard. They only pocket 3 of the 10
shillings).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Our local produce lady - village
life allows us to get fresh produce around the corner and at a better price
than the grocery store.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Pretty much
anything and anyone except ice-cream.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I
always keep a few coins in my pocket since I never know when I might want a cup
of tea or a banana on-the-run or Camie might call asking me to pick up a couple
tomatoes on the way home (each only 10 cents).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><br />
<br />
While we probably could fix our own repairs or shop conveniently at the
big grocery store, the important thing is that purchasing from each one of
these people gives us an opportunity to make a friend and <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">position for discipleship</i>. It’s tough to do that with someone you
don’t see regularly. And it also helps support their business, puts food on
their dinner table and keeps their kids going to school. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Pray for us as we do life in our
neighborhood.</div>
Our Journeyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00160172429148991941noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5465087746770015555.post-72172911730139125492017-04-23T08:32:00.000-04:002021-11-05T06:21:45.075-04:00Does My Life Really Count?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieLqQ4bCQ-9jSx8-4mobzvLo3kUuyOPPA1GeTEmrw8ixaDaHa3XmwNKJhMANgok4INJCBYwW_-BZ9fWLrkfQX_lI4RphY0D7NSsxxYvH8rcbhzAa79XgE3eVwriM0yUvleu2EBhYbvbXy4/s1600/IMG_8767.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieLqQ4bCQ-9jSx8-4mobzvLo3kUuyOPPA1GeTEmrw8ixaDaHa3XmwNKJhMANgok4INJCBYwW_-BZ9fWLrkfQX_lI4RphY0D7NSsxxYvH8rcbhzAa79XgE3eVwriM0yUvleu2EBhYbvbXy4/s640/IMG_8767.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><i>I was born...</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><i>I have had my birth certificate since that day...</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><i>I have a passport...</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><i>A driver's license...</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><i>Even a Kenyan ID card...</i></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVg0kwxd_DqJPmdo5JnrtMiiTsAQaW50yO0zEhYWVBDsczr8582KfbUCqx2FMwlvAXSHZF9MLN9lnoFdIeyys2_N_ZEKeBVDuHL6pTL6KBP9RExPpRGKindVtzU4-zEogJc5M25PWH99mG/s1600/bib+cl+%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"></span></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">If I were hit by a car and died today, someone would look in my purse, see who I was, and my family and friends would be informed, know, and care...</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">and I sort of take all this for granted!!!</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVg0kwxd_DqJPmdo5JnrtMiiTsAQaW50yO0zEhYWVBDsczr8582KfbUCqx2FMwlvAXSHZF9MLN9lnoFdIeyys2_N_ZEKeBVDuHL6pTL6KBP9RExPpRGKindVtzU4-zEogJc5M25PWH99mG/s1600/bib+cl+%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVg0kwxd_DqJPmdo5JnrtMiiTsAQaW50yO0zEhYWVBDsczr8582KfbUCqx2FMwlvAXSHZF9MLN9lnoFdIeyys2_N_ZEKeBVDuHL6pTL6KBP9RExPpRGKindVtzU4-zEogJc5M25PWH99mG/s640/bib+cl+%25281%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Recently, we've run into a situation with <b>a young boy in Ngando</b>. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">He was accepted into a school with full scholarship - based on an exam he took. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Yes, he's really smart! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">... on the way to take the exam, on a small stop for tea, he self-consciously shared that he had never used a serviette (napkin) before and wasn't sure how to.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgH3u_1xCHF9wtZL5RVK0ltKx7Q8OT2j6JVcJG3yiocG2LJMmX8nDYgwmkFXEsCKs_k3o9LIFLWHxMOhykkn9QEuf2R2Ii9uWyyjSFBy78oB-jmeuJ1suwkuZE8dT7WSfHkJhnO_p5yq7Ly/s1600/IMG_8944+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgH3u_1xCHF9wtZL5RVK0ltKx7Q8OT2j6JVcJG3yiocG2LJMmX8nDYgwmkFXEsCKs_k3o9LIFLWHxMOhykkn9QEuf2R2Ii9uWyyjSFBy78oB-jmeuJ1suwkuZE8dT7WSfHkJhnO_p5yq7Ly/s640/IMG_8944+3.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><b><i>Yes, this dirty, barefoot boy has struggled and been thankful for each meal he's eaten - and gone hungry much of the time too!</i></b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">After passing the exam, we were given the "next steps" to get him enrolled. Top on the list was to submit a copy of his birth certificate.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><b>But when your mama is a prostitute... and your grandpa is the known drunkard, odds are against getting that ID!</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">As a matter of fact, as we dug in deeper, his mama doesn't have a birth certificate or an ID either!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">And so they have lived...</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Uneducated...</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Uncared for...</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Unidentified...</span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">I try to imagine this life - this struggle for identity.... </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">this feeling that "I don't really matter"... </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">"Does my life really count?"</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">It is the root of so much hurt and pain </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">that has gone into the downward spiral for generations in this family!</span></div>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtlWbRAezAK9yZNs_z6zsK7Cd9Mn6-eYSJPZkOXErzhbD71gIQLo-gJxfWnOM9cfgCTjY_MgpP7_6Hi3LUl3jQn4RV5diPb8eulfZkMNeLBe_ZYVZcl-MXBWAtHWaMUGSw1FsMqK5VfUno/s1600/IMG_8706+2+%25281%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtlWbRAezAK9yZNs_z6zsK7Cd9Mn6-eYSJPZkOXErzhbD71gIQLo-gJxfWnOM9cfgCTjY_MgpP7_6Hi3LUl3jQn4RV5diPb8eulfZkMNeLBe_ZYVZcl-MXBWAtHWaMUGSw1FsMqK5VfUno/s640/IMG_8706+2+%25281%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><b>Our prayer is that they will find their identity</b>... first in the GOD of the Universe - who cared for them so much that he sent his own SON to rescue them! </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">And then, that we can help them to get their national ID's as well!</span></div>
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<h1 class="passage-display" style="box-sizing: border-box; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Verdana, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; line-height: 1.1; margin: 0px 0px 20px; text-align: center;">
<span class="passage-display-bcv" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; display: inline; margin: 0px; padding-right: 10px;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">Isaiah 49:15</span></i></span></h1>
<h1 class="passage-display" style="box-sizing: border-box; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Verdana, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; line-height: 1.1; margin: 0px 0px 20px; text-align: center;">
<i><b><span class="text Isa-49-15-Isa-49-18" id="en-MSG-7959" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; position: relative; text-align: start;"><span style="font-size: small;">“Can a mother forget the infant at her breast</span></span></b></i></h1>
<h1 class="passage-display" style="box-sizing: border-box; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Verdana, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; line-height: 1.1; margin: 0px 0px 20px; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i><b><span class="indent-1" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; text-align: start;"><span class="text Isa-49-15-Isa-49-18" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; font-size: small; position: relative;">walk away from the baby she bore?</span></span></b></i></span></h1>
<h1 class="passage-display" style="box-sizing: border-box; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Verdana, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; line-height: 1.1; margin: 0px 0px 20px; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i><b><span class="text Isa-49-15-Isa-49-18" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; font-size: small; position: relative; text-align: start;">But even if mothers forget,</span></b></i></span></h1>
<h1 class="passage-display" style="box-sizing: border-box; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Verdana, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; line-height: 1.1; margin: 0px 0px 20px; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i><b><span class="indent-1" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; text-align: start;"><span class="text Isa-49-15-Isa-49-18" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; font-size: small; position: relative;">I’d never forget you—never.</span></span></b></i></span></h1>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><b><span class="text Isa-49-15-Isa-49-18" style="box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "verdana" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; position: relative;">Look, I’ve written your names on the backs of my hands.</span></b></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="text Isa-49-15-Isa-49-18" style="box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "verdana" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; position: relative;"><br /></span></div>
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<span class="text Isa-49-15-Isa-49-18" style="box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "verdana" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; position: relative;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">And as this boy and his mama </span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">rea</span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">lize </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">how loved they are - that they will also realize that </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">their lives in Ngando matter too!</span></div>
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<br />Our Journeyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00160172429148991941noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5465087746770015555.post-47289380394590960832017-03-16T05:51:00.000-04:002021-11-05T06:21:43.745-04:00This isn't my dream life!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgct-PpDUgGn_JuP2V8uy2GS7qk7WMyaJP-mYaD0hLGYrschaG_rWL7uhXWVq6uoVrO04DYM-V0z5QjiJaHz8pwTZNWyhuD3g3MNYSeFHFDTAKUw9djONdGqZK77LVpgkdb5o4E-L3RZXpT/s1600/bib+cl.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgct-PpDUgGn_JuP2V8uy2GS7qk7WMyaJP-mYaD0hLGYrschaG_rWL7uhXWVq6uoVrO04DYM-V0z5QjiJaHz8pwTZNWyhuD3g3MNYSeFHFDTAKUw9djONdGqZK77LVpgkdb5o4E-L3RZXpT/s640/bib+cl.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I looked across the table into the eyes of a good friend</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b><i>"This is NOT my dream life!"</i></b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">There... I had said it... </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">My words echoed in the silence that followed - the relief of admitting what has been echoing in my head flooded into my being.</span><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNYUXiSYTvdgwX06je5yGEM2qyPliFQy6IEDDb9aBtGBP7J_B_zUOV5h0xGPT4vMO5hNPWRA64Mxg_JNhihG5mYr7MvGbBn8GnbQDrFnBYJB3Qf_Rya_nIcHbCj_ilhjPCfpm5TadBgM_E/s1600/IMG_7405.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNYUXiSYTvdgwX06je5yGEM2qyPliFQy6IEDDb9aBtGBP7J_B_zUOV5h0xGPT4vMO5hNPWRA64Mxg_JNhihG5mYr7MvGbBn8GnbQDrFnBYJB3Qf_Rya_nIcHbCj_ilhjPCfpm5TadBgM_E/s200/IMG_7405.jpg" width="157" /></a><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I think it shocked both of us!</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAA21MmpoPIBkvZeZSg7LN3Vwlq3O4YogMxKDYsLiigijK7QDvD2HjBqvKv84ujiAhLlOjOAe7Ow507lw5EozRDG7JVRr407v_6758AH7858F4CuTSBV4FKZJ1-vSeSeNRPKjeWoxBAaqZ/s1600/IMG_1678.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAA21MmpoPIBkvZeZSg7LN3Vwlq3O4YogMxKDYsLiigijK7QDvD2HjBqvKv84ujiAhLlOjOAe7Ow507lw5EozRDG7JVRr407v_6758AH7858F4CuTSBV4FKZJ1-vSeSeNRPKjeWoxBAaqZ/s1600/IMG_1678.jpg" /></a><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">This has been a week for me wherein I have focused on counting the cost of living here in Kenya... grieving over small and big sacrifices that God has called us to.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I've taken 2 showers in the last 3 months - both on a camping trip, where the site had outdoor showers!... <i> I LIKE showers!</i> I don't love bucket baths... </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSqSCopbt8nc94sNOJLTsL4vz5ln-GvR8tRXHHRu9_kr5jaPoSk67Mg-0xMsBCKavrTgAw7DQ3uxeer8xQ26KZR4gqQP4Li8bVmZj-bS1y0qRE11QF9AEV2UGnuQh3s846YZ-Sx8DO9xbD/s1600/IMG_5884.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSqSCopbt8nc94sNOJLTsL4vz5ln-GvR8tRXHHRu9_kr5jaPoSk67Mg-0xMsBCKavrTgAw7DQ3uxeer8xQ26KZR4gqQP4Li8bVmZj-bS1y0qRE11QF9AEV2UGnuQh3s846YZ-Sx8DO9xbD/s400/IMG_5884.jpg" width="300" /></span></a><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><b>My daughter will be going on her first school break with no family to go "home" to</b> (Kenya is just a little too far away!) I cry every time I think of how I wish I could spoil her - knowing this has been a tough semester for her! Wishing I could take her out for a long breakfast, with endless coffee refills and conversation... cook her her favorite meal... wash all her laundry for her.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIn7Kh4dupQUYwF3gg5jt7UOnmudgqW4NjaxrWcQTIouWPHRXkiJBYW05YU0i6tEFkGeqHVsq8M0UacbI1Mvo3uUyMAW9atUl-JY9uj0HLDtnbOV0RkIKj71-bASVZ0NPoeaSNMVsqxFFN/s1600/IMG_8469.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIn7Kh4dupQUYwF3gg5jt7UOnmudgqW4NjaxrWcQTIouWPHRXkiJBYW05YU0i6tEFkGeqHVsq8M0UacbI1Mvo3uUyMAW9atUl-JY9uj0HLDtnbOV0RkIKj71-bASVZ0NPoeaSNMVsqxFFN/s400/IMG_8469.JPG" width="258" /></span></a><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><b>I'm missing my son like crazy</b> - being so far away, it's hard to even know how he is really doing! I want to be able to pop in on him - see his smile... to feel that he is OK. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">The needs around us feel overwhelming...</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Struggles in ministry have been intense.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><i>These and other costs have felt very deep to me - the costs of living here in Kenya- sacrifices that GOD has asked of us. They stand tall along with some hard situations we have faced here on the ground in Ngando - and I wonder - is this all really worth it? </i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj89WhxXK16YbZEGmN5tVOvHfXyW4MAf19A6D34pMHYAwExqS-v2DSSjI5pjrILq50BJB9gwRyc6_rHUB9dSXzD5JpJOebuWd2UCCO4p4liQ8PwqutFSK_Pbe1Nb2FDsU5yqkr8bK4Bflfi/s1600/IMG_6825.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="632" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj89WhxXK16YbZEGmN5tVOvHfXyW4MAf19A6D34pMHYAwExqS-v2DSSjI5pjrILq50BJB9gwRyc6_rHUB9dSXzD5JpJOebuWd2UCCO4p4liQ8PwqutFSK_Pbe1Nb2FDsU5yqkr8bK4Bflfi/s640/IMG_6825.jpg" width="640" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>This is definitely NOT my dream life!</b></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">But, I'm lucky... I don't have to look more than a few meters outside my front door to find people who have NEVER had a hot shower... who's child is with them, but dying... whose dream life includes food for supper, $30 dollars for the month's rent, and a husband who will come home sober tonight...</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">This pushes me to gain perspective!! How spoiled I feel when I realize that the things I feel like I'm "suffering" without aren't even on my good friend's list!</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTTypCxlLrPcNJy1CERJlpFARgVkMGIb8FKENXkzNZHPQyjFVlLzPRWbZELjYdwWtadlQNiH_NixFPM6qg_wim-uI7NRwpc8pwlHPvnJCcGpqqOBmIiTPEmwgJx9AiwugYXQZiYgVsMR8h/s1600/shiku.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="296" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTTypCxlLrPcNJy1CERJlpFARgVkMGIb8FKENXkzNZHPQyjFVlLzPRWbZELjYdwWtadlQNiH_NixFPM6qg_wim-uI7NRwpc8pwlHPvnJCcGpqqOBmIiTPEmwgJx9AiwugYXQZiYgVsMR8h/s400/shiku.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b><i>I've spent a lot of time this week, forcing myself to face this question...</i></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b><i><br /></i></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><b><i><span style="font-size: large;">What is my DREAM life?</span></i></b></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGL10rf-mTmA2Iwk_PYdw6nGUySuiOkh7VloHDWYV3mmcglp52BLRWg02ZdXqmUdEqO_BjhbVX7agoWnKXiyQ_Yqac8sPcAGmzyGoLRfGCaTjFcUClrDwnwFpQgNmNDDIpyUWWzk7Tla-D/s1600/ngando.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGL10rf-mTmA2Iwk_PYdw6nGUySuiOkh7VloHDWYV3mmcglp52BLRWg02ZdXqmUdEqO_BjhbVX7agoWnKXiyQ_Yqac8sPcAGmzyGoLRfGCaTjFcUClrDwnwFpQgNmNDDIpyUWWzk7Tla-D/s640/ngando.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">And when I dig deep, when I truly answer that question, I realize - </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><i>maybe THIS is my dream life after all... </i></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><i><br /></i></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><i>Because these are my deepest longings, my truest desires, once I get past those things that would make my life feel better today:</i></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">I long for a deepness... </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">a purpose... </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">a commitment... </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">a walk with GOD that goes far beyond my hot showers and family nearby... </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">a faithfulness... </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">courage to grieve, yet to embrace the life that God has given me...</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">and a HOPE...</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">And so, I lean into the HOPE that he has promised me - not a hope that my life will ever be exactly how I wish it was - that I will attain my "dream life" - But the HOPE that I get to live out GOD'S purpose for my life with the promise of His love, mercy, grace and presence. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">This is the ANCHOR for my SOUL </span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; text-align: start;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><i><b>We who have run for our very lives to God have every reason to grab the promised hope with both hands and never let go. It’s an unbreakable spiritual lifeline, reaching past all appearances right to the very presence of God </b></i></span></span></div>
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<i style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; text-align: start;"><b>Hebrews 6:18-20</b></i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2Kh3hPio309fkrgrHrf9OJFUQBqR257xwcGc7DyL-PI6Iyqa1DwbTxdaS-c3VSOUdgtbj7-t0zMAR_oqLr2qnawtrNA0b4_DLrd_YRa3dq4mSyMk5WpBeGlNDwtudqohP95iTUgbDhHkG/s1600/camie.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2Kh3hPio309fkrgrHrf9OJFUQBqR257xwcGc7DyL-PI6Iyqa1DwbTxdaS-c3VSOUdgtbj7-t0zMAR_oqLr2qnawtrNA0b4_DLrd_YRa3dq4mSyMk5WpBeGlNDwtudqohP95iTUgbDhHkG/s400/camie.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><i> I Thessalonians 4:13</i></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><i>...don't grieve like people who have no hope</i></span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJPoJ8WuzECvpKRU3DJlT7blaH_nIb9wVqOweugw3mck9u9JwdEuUq_xD4PR4CYZCDCKzYI4nEHyDSBrJvwCwOnDT3tz8KWTeGsEBCuPZn2bxNExG0Td7q-_Ys0PZDquvUuAjiN_092GRy/s1600/IMG_7034.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJPoJ8WuzECvpKRU3DJlT7blaH_nIb9wVqOweugw3mck9u9JwdEuUq_xD4PR4CYZCDCKzYI4nEHyDSBrJvwCwOnDT3tz8KWTeGsEBCuPZn2bxNExG0Td7q-_Ys0PZDquvUuAjiN_092GRy/s1600/IMG_7034.JPG" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Brad didn't even know I was writing this blog, wrestling through this things, and he brought me this video last night... it hit me right where I'm at and provided great encouragement for me!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/search/top/?q=desiring%20God&ref=eyJzaWQiOiIwLjg2NzMzMzgwMzYyOTA1NjgiLCJxcyI6IkpUVkNKVEl5WkdWemFYSnBibWNsTWpCSGIyUWxNaklsTlVRIiwiZ3YiOiJiZWUwOWY5M2ZhNzMyY2ZhNTlhMWNiNmQ5ZjQ1MGQzODkyNDI0ZTQ5In0" target="_blank">Click here for ENCOURAGEMENT!</a></span><br />
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<br />Our Journeyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00160172429148991941noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5465087746770015555.post-22272643880897284152017-03-01T03:54:00.000-05:002021-11-05T06:21:42.599-04:00March Monthly Partner Update<br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 11pt;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbqD1zTbVGTDoKpoV5FzT6E1qjLw3cTRYMnHdc5ZK_x3VUHLKiI7BXrGn7HmtBPmVX_WV3o7F3NYHBuZHI5TxjlVlAedQM18PKp2mneUurDuouckZP-9GoOzwyHYLf-JZBUdh8YtgJVh7_/s1600/IMG_3792.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbqD1zTbVGTDoKpoV5FzT6E1qjLw3cTRYMnHdc5ZK_x3VUHLKiI7BXrGn7HmtBPmVX_WV3o7F3NYHBuZHI5TxjlVlAedQM18PKp2mneUurDuouckZP-9GoOzwyHYLf-JZBUdh8YtgJVh7_/s320/IMG_3792.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 11pt;">Family</span></b><span style="font-size: 11pt;">:</span></span><br />
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<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 11pt;">Keep praying for our kids back home<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">: </span>Abby <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">at </span>Bible School, Nathan <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">and a <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">possible promotio<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">n at work</span></span></span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> and</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> Gen<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">é <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">with college studies</span>.</span></span></span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 11pt;">Sam is <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">doing <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">we<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">ll in school</span></span></span>. Pray for him as he desires to lead his friends to walk with Jesus.<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Being in a</span> multi-cu<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">ltural school <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">is a special and <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">unique experience for Sam</span> but also can create other relational tensions. Pray <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">that the school w<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">ould</span> be free of a<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">ny </span>prejudice<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 11pt;">We still do<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> no</span>t have running water at home. Pray for a solution.</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 11pt;">For continued spiritual cover over our home and our lives. We are at war<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">against <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">the enemy.</span></span></span></span></span></li>
</ul>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 11pt;"><b>Hatua Centre: ministry on the ground</b></span></span><br />
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<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 11pt;">The women's ministry<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> - </span>Girls With Vision - <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">has begun</span> monthly training for<b> </b>making household items for them to use and sell. Pray that this may lead to continued discipleship.<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> </span></span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 11pt;">Pray
for our Bible school students. Encouragement and determination to work
hard. The online technology and tablets is an uphill hurdle for some
of them.</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 11pt;">Pray
for a new group of interested Bible school students in the
town of Meru. There are 18 ne<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">w students from 5 <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">churches currently <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">going through the Firm Foundations/Story of God B<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">ible study. Pray for Pauline as she is leading the <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">training - <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">travel<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> safety, energy<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">. </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 11pt;">Pray that our engagement with the local churches will deepen. Not more programs but deeper things for the sake of the Gospel. Pray a<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">gainst fals<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">e teaching that tends to creep into local churches<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">/pastor's bad theology; <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">such as</span></span> pr<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">ophecy, animism<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">, </span></span></span></span>traditional beliefs, pro<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">sperity gospel. This is spiritual warfare<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">!</span> Pray that they wil<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">l<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> be open to</span> the Holy Spirit's leading and <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">seek the truth of the Gospel.</span></span></span></span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 11pt;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Prai<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">se/</span>Pray for <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">open doors re<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">lationally as we plan to expand <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Hatua Community Centres to other slums in <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Nairobi. Looking for "persons of peace<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">" as we enter into new areas.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 11pt;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Upcoming presidential elections in August - <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">pray for peace and unity. Ele<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">ctions are very divided within trib<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">al lines<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> and can easily turn b<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">itter or violent.</span></span></span></span></span></span> </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></li>
</ul>
Our Journeyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00160172429148991941noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5465087746770015555.post-70230578347824934542017-02-03T02:31:00.005-05:002021-11-05T06:21:44.824-04:00What Do I Do When I See Suffering?<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Times; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 12px; text-align: center;">
<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-size: large;">Arriving back in Ngando, </span></span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-size: large;">the SUFFERING has smacked me in the face. </span></span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none;">It’s <b>unavoidable</b>… it’s <b>lucid</b>… </span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Times; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 12px; text-align: center;">
<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none;">It’s behind each pile of trash and stinking pit latrine… </span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Times; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 12px; text-align: center;">
<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none;">.. under the ringworm on a child’s bald head…</span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Times; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 12px; text-align: center;">
<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none;">.. inside the home of a bed ridden mama… </span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Times; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 12px; text-align: center;">
<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none;">.. lurking behind hungry eyes… </span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Times; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 12px; text-align: center;">
<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none;">..weighing down the lowered head of a child who can’t go to school… </span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Times; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 12px; text-align: center;">
<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none;">...Suffering…</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQLzzb4nIPjhQYUXtNiDpzYFFmRqz7zM2MvUiFTItLq9X75Y-pfb56iQ4KJrVtm5nJHCwT167XQW7viGql6LgoawRzRC77JNDsYd4aNy51fB0zEZcTp7Hmd1irhyYXLzkfuZUQdYG5xJxk/s1600/IMG_6825.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="316" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQLzzb4nIPjhQYUXtNiDpzYFFmRqz7zM2MvUiFTItLq9X75Y-pfb56iQ4KJrVtm5nJHCwT167XQW7viGql6LgoawRzRC77JNDsYd4aNy51fB0zEZcTp7Hmd1irhyYXLzkfuZUQdYG5xJxk/s320/IMG_6825.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none;"><b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Times; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 12px; text-align: center;">
<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none;"><b><span style="font-size: large;">I long to relieve the suffering!</span></b></span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Times; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 12px; text-align: center;">
<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none;"><b><span style="font-size: large;">My heart aches as I encounter it!</span></b></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKQN5hxZWmSoDBPme9lZN2dLdL0mJOTBSvUDtFeAoEJ3tZYNMYO96jU8jggTz1WUA5lmIqz_96tck1kMB6HO396adU05cLaxrhxb6v56SppmbJBOOPn20C7zs7739M1wE7THpua4Y8NhSm/s1600/ngando.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKQN5hxZWmSoDBPme9lZN2dLdL0mJOTBSvUDtFeAoEJ3tZYNMYO96jU8jggTz1WUA5lmIqz_96tck1kMB6HO396adU05cLaxrhxb6v56SppmbJBOOPn20C7zs7739M1wE7THpua4Y8NhSm/s640/ngando.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjniZ3d5ZaCybjN_jGU8mmT2qyGPIeZ2Auu8EVZk1XZ__ExYSxrhMm7D4n-WmdBx6N05N_6Z2hr25rnpb-e9sV7u0z4mUHwvrLsvnYz_gd1M1NzNtuUcXyO7s0D__3BAgBaA0VDcnzX3HRx/s1600/11144081_891936430864655_6301694845022904447_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="261" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjniZ3d5ZaCybjN_jGU8mmT2qyGPIeZ2Auu8EVZk1XZ__ExYSxrhMm7D4n-WmdBx6N05N_6Z2hr25rnpb-e9sV7u0z4mUHwvrLsvnYz_gd1M1NzNtuUcXyO7s0D__3BAgBaA0VDcnzX3HRx/s320/11144081_891936430864655_6301694845022904447_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none;"><b>But come to find out, most of the time I can’t… </b></span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Times; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 12px;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;"><b>…not here in Ngando, </b></span></div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: Times; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 12px;">
<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none;"><b>…and not back in the US (where the suffering is just as present though much more “unexposed”)</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none;"><b>And so, Brad and I often ask ourselves - why are we here? </b></span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none;"><b>If we can’t relieve the suffering, how do we even know that God is working through us to transform people’s lives?</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><b><span style="font-size: large;">Yesterday I saw the most BEAUTIFUL picture of God’s healing GRACE… His work… transformation…</span></b></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCBbPh1RqbxH-fke0Dnjx41njgk30-_m4pjU0DXZqm05n7KXzWQBO082sNJGpRA32HYg4kz28Xn-DjG9OjeRq9ELZj6uzB0UHvCpq6ilrXu652lBcmV0l5yLgix5H07pNk9V_WbweRzHDX/s1600/IMG_7479.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCBbPh1RqbxH-fke0Dnjx41njgk30-_m4pjU0DXZqm05n7KXzWQBO082sNJGpRA32HYg4kz28Xn-DjG9OjeRq9ELZj6uzB0UHvCpq6ilrXu652lBcmV0l5yLgix5H07pNk9V_WbweRzHDX/s400/IMG_7479.JPG" width="300" /></a><span style="font-kerning: none;"></span></div>
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<b style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial;">In checking all of the jewelry that was finished last month - checking for quality, to our dismay, <i>Sally </i>had made 38 of her bracelets wrong! </b></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><b>They would ALL have to be redone! </b></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><b>We knew she would be DEVASTATED.</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><b>We also knew she DESPERATELY needed the pay for the work on those bracelets!</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><b>I arrived at the center the following day wondering how she had taken the news.</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><b>When I entered the room where beadwork is done, <i>Sally’s</i> bracelets were spread across the table… but <i>Sally</i> wasn’t even there!</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><b>Two other ladies were carefully redoing her work for her.</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><b>She may never even know what they fixed.</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><b>As I watched these grace-filled, work-worn hands repair another’s mistakes, in my mind, I reviewed the needs they have in their own lives. The work they could have been getting done for themselves, in order to earn more money for their own pressing problems. But, they had chosen to take this day to bless someone else.</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><b>To take their eyes off of their own blaring needs and comfort another…</b></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioeCE-LDv1vkd1scgd7ofDNNEEed7IzXC2feUn_l4o8P4UkBBzRGp4O9ZWuUQPLwBO8dhSLYYaHePlF30icW19FKSZu1h1LqZaoTPLdyaUSuaQjI7-NKP8pwBIQvx4VkCkOHaJCoJaNzNk/s1600/IMG_7270.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioeCE-LDv1vkd1scgd7ofDNNEEed7IzXC2feUn_l4o8P4UkBBzRGp4O9ZWuUQPLwBO8dhSLYYaHePlF30icW19FKSZu1h1LqZaoTPLdyaUSuaQjI7-NKP8pwBIQvx4VkCkOHaJCoJaNzNk/s640/IMG_7270.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><b>This is GRACE</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><b>This is not NORMAL suffering…</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><b>This is wholeness, community, love - love that only comes from HEART TRANSFORMATION!</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><b><i><span style="font-size: large;">Self-preservation is the first law of nature, </span></i></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><b><i><span style="font-size: large;">but self-sacrifice is the highest rule of grace</span></i></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><b>We have actually come to measure healing amongst the poor by a different standard… </b></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><b>NOT whether suffering has been eradicated… Even Jesus didn’t have the goal of wiping out poverty!</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><b>Healing is apparent as we answer this question with a “yes”… </b></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><b><span style="font-size: large;">C<i>an I give even in the midst of my own neediness?</i></span></b></span></div>
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<b style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial;">But this isn’t just for the poor!!! </b></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><b><i>It’s for ALL of us!!!</i> </b></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><b>You see, when I suffer, most of the time I focus on myself. While others around me suffer deeply, my own need DEVOURS my attention - I have nothing to give.</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><b><span style="font-size: large;">But this is NOT what God intended.</span></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><b>When I have encountered suffering… in my own life… I have received such abundant GRACE and COMFORT! And I am blessed.</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><b>When I suffer I can’t just stop there… When I am comforted I can’t just stop there…</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><b>Because when the river of blessing flows through me, I can’t build a dam and keep them to myself! That is not GRACE… that is not what God intended! I need to be a conduit through which that GRACE and COMFORT flow on to others.</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><b>That is TRANSFORMATION!!!</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><b><span style="font-size: large;">This is something only Jesus can do in my life… and yours… and in the lives here in Ngando!</span></b></span></div>
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<h1 class="passage-display" style="box-sizing: border-box; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Verdana, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; line-height: 1.1; margin: 0px 0px 20px; text-align: center;">
<i><span style="font-size: small;"><span class="passage-display-bcv" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; display: inline; margin: 0px; padding-right: 10px;">2 Corinthians 1:3-5</span><span class="passage-display-version" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; display: inline;"> (NLT)</span></span></i></h1>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i><b><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Verdana, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif;"><span class="text 2Cor-1-3" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box;"> God is our merciful Father and the source of all comfort.</span> </span><span style="font-family: Arial;"> </span></b></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i><b><span class="text 2Cor-1-4" id="en-NLT-28765" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Verdana, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif;">He comforts us in all our troubles so that we can comfort others. When they are troubled, we will be able to give them the same comfort God has given us.</span><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Verdana, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif;"> </span></b></i></span></div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">* Names changed in this true story</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">*If you'd like to support the ministry by purchasing any of our jewelry, find the link below! </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbMmcnX4K8Sj4Tx8gambY5MGXvdYKbauISb-9UtEVC1BPoYu57-M9sl3xQkxicd9a9RSbRoTt4rlgB9kUetvDjeoJYIY8LDgcBMlS1d5RJci3GSbD5BYYWrzEaM6xxzq4gEMupCQyJ0xkX/s1600/IMG_7104.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="262" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbMmcnX4K8Sj4Tx8gambY5MGXvdYKbauISb-9UtEVC1BPoYu57-M9sl3xQkxicd9a9RSbRoTt4rlgB9kUetvDjeoJYIY8LDgcBMlS1d5RJci3GSbD5BYYWrzEaM6xxzq4gEMupCQyJ0xkX/s320/IMG_7104.jpg" width="320" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiBtIbJdfTJj2IIGc-XeDNMNu3WIwGQKIZSzgws6Zlq9OFwjW8IkNb4SayeNEI-VjrCOk_gRPjnpBQta-JcQe7e8TIDe_RHyKGqkLLWBOeppCaTU_tJHVDkHZS__pLHsq3jn6PRFNMIXJU/s1600/IMG_7077+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiBtIbJdfTJj2IIGc-XeDNMNu3WIwGQKIZSzgws6Zlq9OFwjW8IkNb4SayeNEI-VjrCOk_gRPjnpBQta-JcQe7e8TIDe_RHyKGqkLLWBOeppCaTU_tJHVDkHZS__pLHsq3jn6PRFNMIXJU/s320/IMG_7077+2.jpg" width="236" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">If you'd like to support this ministry, you can find this jewelry at our little shop over here:</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/GirlsWithVision?ref=hdr_shop_menu" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: x-large;">SHOP</span></a></div>
Our Journeyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00160172429148991941noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5465087746770015555.post-59280929175871055132017-01-31T04:06:00.000-05:002021-11-05T06:21:43.993-04:00February Monthly Partner Update<h3 class="post-title entry-title" itemprop="name">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Please keep us in
prayer:</b></span></h3>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">
</span><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkOWhjkErfdKBl5aJoFJlSZAYfL22W5W4N2rZ2wV914_gHmQze9WPNorJRwdHmLOLa_RjcpUiNrKtgCY3H9IMb4UJPgOcsQtxV2PcD-i1ykY5MZmbtHrJMEiv3qIpgbltK71wzXElc6sb_/s1600/220EB847-E2BD-4717-BC4E-FD90521087A7.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkOWhjkErfdKBl5aJoFJlSZAYfL22W5W4N2rZ2wV914_gHmQze9WPNorJRwdHmLOLa_RjcpUiNrKtgCY3H9IMb4UJPgOcsQtxV2PcD-i1ykY5MZmbtHrJMEiv3qIpgbltK71wzXElc6sb_/s320/220EB847-E2BD-4717-BC4E-FD90521087A7.JPG" width="240" /></a><i> </i><br />
<br />
<i>(These Bougainvillea flowers and thorns surrounds our house. They are a constant reminder that we are covered and protected by Jesus' blood )</i><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 11pt;"><br /></span></b></span><br />
<h1 class="passage-display">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span class="passage-display-bcv">Ephesians 2:4-6</span><span class="passage-display-version"> (ESV)</span></span></span></h1>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"> <span class="text Eph-2-4" id="en-ESV-29217">But God, being rich in mercy, because of the great love with which he loved us,</span> <span class="text Eph-2-5" id="en-ESV-29218">even when we were dead in our trespasses, made us alive together with Christ—by grace you have been saved—</span> <span class="text Eph-2-6" id="en-ESV-29219"><sup class="versenum"> </sup>and raised us up with him and seated us with him in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus,</span></span></span> <br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 11pt;">Family</span></b><span style="font-size: 11pt;">:</span></span><br />
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 11pt;">Keep praying for our kids back home - Abby, Nathan &<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> Gen<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">é</span></span></span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 11pt;">We have settled back in our home in Nairobi and have a lot to be thankful for</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 11pt;">Sam is back into a school routine. Pray for him as he desires to lead his friends to walk with Jesus</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 11pt;">We still don't have running water at home. Pray for a solution</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 11pt;">Praise that we were able to purchase a good vehicle</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 11pt;">For continued spiritual cover over our home and our lives</span></span></li>
</ul>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 11pt;"><b>Hatua Centre: ministry on the ground</b></span></span><br />
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 11pt;">The women's ministry is starting monthly training for<b> </b>making household items for them to use and sell. Pray that this may lead to continued discipleship.</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 11pt;">Pray for our Bible school students. Encouragement and determination to work hard. The online technology and tablets is an uphill hurdle for some of them.</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 11pt;">Pray for a potential new group of interested Bible school students in the town of Meru. The Bible school is expanding to other regions. The new students will first go through some months of a foundation Bible course then apply to the Bible school. Pray for wisdom with the new group and for travel over the next few months. Meru is about 4 hours away.</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 11pt;">Pray that our engagement with the local churches will deepen. Not more programs but deeper things for the sake of the Gospel.</span></span></li>
</ul>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 11pt;"></span></span>Our Journeyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00160172429148991941noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5465087746770015555.post-27745268677545038192016-10-29T14:09:00.002-04:002021-11-05T06:21:43.007-04:00January Monthly Partner Update<style>
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</style>Tomorrow we head back to Kenya! We are full of emotions; ready to get back to our home but also struggling to say goodbye to family and friends.<br />
We give God the glory as He has shown his awesome grace and faithfulness to our family.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Please keep us in
prayer:</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">
</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 11pt;">Family</span></b></span><br />
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 11pt;">Readjusting to home life in Nairobi.</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 11pt;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">We have been given the funds for a vehicle<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">.</span></span></span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 11pt;">Abby </span></b><span style="font-size: 11pt;">in Bible School in Michigan - studies, work,
finances.</span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 11pt;"> </span></b></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 11pt;">Nathan</span></b><span style="font-size: 11pt;"> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">living </span>on his own<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> in Indianapolis.</span></span></span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 11pt;">Sam</span></b><span style="font-size: 11pt;"> adjusting back to his school in
Kenya mid-year. He starts school <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">at West Nairobi School on</span> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">the</span> 11th.</span></span></li>
</ul>
<br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 11pt;">We will keep posting updates <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">once we arrive and settle in.</span></span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 11pt;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Happy New Year! </span> </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">
</span>Our Journeyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00160172429148991941noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5465087746770015555.post-7892109778389406722016-10-29T14:09:00.001-04:002021-11-05T06:21:41.897-04:00November Monthly Partner Update<style>
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</style><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Please keep us in
prayer:</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">
</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 11pt;">Family</span></b><span style="font-size: 11pt;"> </span></span><br />
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 11pt;">Moving back to Kenya fully on January 2, 2017 - travel,
airfare, re-adjusting, only 3 of us.</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 11pt;">Pra<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">yer has been answered! Thankful<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">! <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">We jus<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">t got notice that</span></span></span> our visa/work permit was renewed for another <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">2 years.</span></span></span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 11pt;"> </span></b></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 11pt;">Abby </span></b><span style="font-size: 11pt;">in Bible School - studies, work,
finances.</span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 11pt;"> </span></b></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 11pt;">Nathan</span></b><span style="font-size: 11pt;"> at Starbucks, future direction
and moving out on his own.</span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 11pt;"> </span></b></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 11pt;">Sam</span></b><span style="font-size: 11pt;"> adjusting back to his school in
Kenya mid-year. </span></span></li>
</ul>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; mso-outline-level: 3;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; mso-outline-level: 3;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b><span style="font-size: 11pt;">On
the Ground in Kenya </span></b></span></div>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 11pt;">Hatua Community Centre - <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Pauline</b> as she manages ongoing ministry; that she would be
encouraged and see God's healing, protective, providing hand.</span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 11pt;"> </span></b></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 11pt;">Pastor David and
family</span></b><span style="font-size: 11pt;">
- that they would be encouraged and see God's healing/protective hand.
We/they are experiencing strong spiritual opposition, manifested in
physical ways inexplicable medical conditions. God has healed. Pray
for spiritual protection over his family.</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 11pt;">24 <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Bible school
students</b> beginning the final term for the year. Pray for next
years applicants, that we would have a good number of committed students.2 new churches have just begun. Planted by 2 of
our Bible school students - <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Florence
Oduor and David Simidi</b>. Please pray for their spiritual
protection, endurance and encouragement.</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 11pt;">Children’s Bible clubs in November.</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 11pt;">For clarity of the Gospel to be
freely understood with each of our steps. We are
continuously up against blinding spiritual evils, false teaching,
witchcraft,<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>animism and prosperity
faith. Pray that we would hold strong to putting on "the armor
of God" (Ephesians 6). </span></span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 11pt;"> </span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 11pt;">Nairobi Chapel and our
partnership.</span></span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 11pt;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 11pt;"> </span></span></span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 11pt;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 11pt;">Our house/housing in Ngando – maintenance and repairs –
Our <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">landlord John</b>.</span></span> </span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 11pt;">Peaceful elections next year.</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 11pt;">Future growth of the vision in
Nairobi, rural Kenya and Tanzania– that we would be available and walk in
the Spirit: CTC Bible schools, community centers, medical facility, dress
project.</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 11pt;">Praise
for recent, big bead-work jewelry sales and contacts.</span></span></li>
</ul>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; mso-outline-level: 3;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; mso-outline-level: 3;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b><span style="font-size: 11pt;">Needs</span></b></span></div>
<br />
<ul type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo3; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 11pt;">We are at 70% of our monthly support</span></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo3; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 11pt;">A 4WD vehicle to help us access muddy roads and rural
areas and for better safety on the roads. $25,000. We are at
20%.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We currently do not have a
vehicle.</span></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo3; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 11pt;">Bible club funds for November</span></span></li>
</ul>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">
</span>Our Journeyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00160172429148991941noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5465087746770015555.post-83985723665990453062016-09-29T12:53:00.000-04:002021-11-05T06:21:45.655-04:00October 2016 Monthly Partner Update<h3>
<b><span style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Please keep us in prayer:</span></b></h3>
<h3>
<b><span style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Personal</span></b></h3>
<ul>
<li>Brad had a very encouraging and productive visit to Kenya in September. We are feeling the attacks from the enemy but there is plenty to rejoice about. We will not allow Satan to steal our joy. God has opened doors for us and continues to encourage us to move ahead. </li>
<li>Moving back to Kenya fully in January 2017 - travel, airfare, re-adjusting, only 3 of us.</li>
<li>Pray for a smooth process in the renewal of our residency/work permit in Kenya - Expires Nov 2016. Our paperwork is submitted and is being processed.</li>
<li>Abby in Bible School - studies, work, finances. </li>
</ul>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: .25in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<h3>
</h3>
</div>
<h3>
<b> On the Ground in Kenya</b>
</h3>
<ul>
<li>Hatua Community Centre - Pauline as she manages ongoing ministry;
that she would be encouraged and see God's healing, protective, providing hand</li>
<li>Pastor David and family - that they would be encouraged and see
God's healing/protective hand. We/they are experiencing strong
spiritual opposition, manifested in physical ways inexplicable medical
conditions. God has healed. Pray for spiritual protection over his family.</li>
<li>24 Bible school students beginning the final term for the year.
Pray for next years applicants, that we would have a good number of
committed students.</li>
<li>2 new churches have just begun. Planted by 2 of our Bible school students - Florence Oduor and David Simidi. Please pray for their spiritual protection, endurance and encouragement.</li>
<li>For clarity of the Gospel to be freely understood with each of our steps. We are continuously up
against blinding spiritual evils, false teaching, animism and
prosperity faith. Pray that we would hold strong to putting on "the armor of God" (<a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Ephesians+6%3A10-18&version=ESV" target="_blank">Ephesians 6</a>). This continues to be true.</li>
</ul>
<h3>
<b>Needs </b></h3>
<ul>
<li>We are at 70% of our monthly support needed. (<a href="https://www.mvi.org/donations/" target="_blank">Give</a>) <span style="font-size: x-small;">- Field Coordinator Ministry - Preferenced for the Matlacks. </span></li>
<li>A 4WD vehicle to help us access muddy roads and rural areas and for
better safety on the roads. $25,000. We are at 20%.</li>
</ul>
<h3>
<b>Upcoming Travel in the US</b></h3>
<ul>
<li>Camie will be in Orlando, FL October 11-18th focusing on Girls With Vision bead work.</li>
<li>Philly area, PA- October 20-23</li>
<li>D.C., Northern VA - October 23-26</li>
</ul>
Our Journeyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00160172429148991941noreply@blogger.com