A Breath of Fresh Air

Heat. Travel. Unstable electricity Things not working. Heat. Things needing repair. Going to town to buy something only to find out "It is finished." Internet issues. Heat. Driving a motorcycle to villages in the strong sun. Not "seeing" any change/growth in the church or congregation. Wondering if "anyone hears." Heat. All of these may seem like small things. But, day after day, they can wear on a person.

Enter, a breath of fresh air. It came in the form of six people from Highworth Community Church, Highworth, Swindon, UK. They came to Lawra for a couple of reasons, one being to encourage me in my ministry, see what God is doing in this part of the world and to pray. And, pray, they did!

They prayed at the clinic.

They prayed at my house.

They prayed at the market.

They prayed at a funeral.

They prayed in Kunyukuo and they prayed in Kalsagri.

One of the things that this team did was to pray throughout my house - a house blessing. I was touched by the faith and conviction with which they prayed...and the blessings they prayed. 

We also had "down time" to share stories of life and faith.

Of course, some were more tired than others!

On Sunday morning, Pastor Matt and the group taught a song to the congregation. His sons did a drama to reinforce the morning Scripture. Then, he preached. It was really nice to hear a sermon in English! I know that all who were present were blessed.

Pastor Matt preaching in Kunyukuo.

All too soon, their time was up and the group had to leave. Lots of farewells and hugs and blessings were given. The visit was short. But, it was enough to strengthen me, to let me know in a concrete way that I am not alone here in Lawra, that others are here with me. (That is easy to forget since I get so few visitors and rarely anyone not connected with TMS Global.) I pray God will continue to bless Highworth Community Church, its leaders, and their mission focus. 

Who would have thought this partnership and friendship would happen? God is so good! Only He could have orchestrated this. Thank you for visiting. You are welcome to come back anytime. The door is open.

Grateful for Six Years

In February, I celebrated six years in Ghana! Six years. In some ways it seems like I just got here. Other ways it seems as if I have been here forever! When I came, I had in my mind that I would be here for at least ten years. IF I decide to leave after ten years, I have passed the halfway mark. I have only four more years! But, I don't sit around and count the days. What good is that?

Today I choose to be grateful for the time and the opportunities that God has given me. I came to Ghana thinking I would be working with children who were AIDS orphans. And I did for a while. But, God had other ideas.

I have had the privilege of: working with disabled children; being a "home away from home" for volunteers from the US and beyond; working in a clinic; being grandmother to a bunch of local children; and facilitating trainings for church leaders and Sunday school teachers. 

The last four years (has it been four years already?) I have been the equivalent of a lay pastor in two village churches, Kalsagri and Kunyukuo. I am so glad God put me in Kalsagri first because if it had been the other was around, I don't know if I could have done it. In Kalsagri, the congregation is made up of a variety of ages. The children and youth WANT to learn and many of them have attended Bible studies, English classes and trainings that  have been available. Even those in Junior High School are helping to lead the church. Kunyukuo is mainly made up of widows, a couple of young mothers and LOTS of young children. So far, I haven't seen the interest in growth among the people of this church. It is as if they are sleeping and need to be awaken. Both churches have a large percentage of illiterate people in their congregation. Both churches have welcomed and accepted me, for which I am grateful.  

It hasn't been easy. God has stretched me beyond what I could imagine. I drive a motorcycle! I prepare a sermon most weeks. I have seen the needless and preventable deaths of both adults and children. I've attended more funerals in the last six years than I have in my entire life before I moved here. I have seen people who are oppressed and need the peace of the Lord. I have seen people who try to feed their families and don't have the means to do so. I have known young men and women who want an education and can't afford it. I have had illnesses that I never thought I would have to worry about. I have seen way too many flying insects up close! And, now that we are entering the hot season...Ugh! 105 degrees and higher is NOT fun.

But,the blessings, oh, the blessings...a Ghanaian family... Being part of someone's life, watching them grow in their faith and be baptized and confirmed. Listening to testimony after testimony of how God has worked in lives. Being a part of a church where the blind, lame and disfigured worship and praise God side by side of others - and witnessing their confession of faith and baptism.Seeing people who have been outcasts become accepted. Watching boys and girls try their best both in school and at church, leading the worship services. Hearing children of all ages call out, "Maakum!" to me. It makes me smile and know I am blessed beyond measure.

Six years down...only God knows how many are in my future.

Flexability, a Lifestyle

As an American, I like to plan out my schedule...plan my workday, plan my weekends, plan my traveling. I want to know, "When? Where? How? Why? How long?" That doesn't work here. I love the fact that each of my days are totally different one from another. They start the same...coffee or tea, time with God, then, I "go to work." Even if I plan something, it rarely goes that way.

On a recent Saturday, I traveled on my motorcycle to Kunyukuo to be with the mother of a child who had died. As I was with her, I received word that the step child of a church member in Kalsagri had died and the burial would happen soon. So, I hopped on my motorcycle and I was off. (Rev. Clifford, Razak and Steve were there, too.)

When we arrived at Kalsagri, we were greeted by family members and taken to a shady spot to sit. A cold drink was given to each of us. As we spoke with the family, we discovered that the minister of the deceased was not able to come. So, Rev. Clifford was going to do the grave side service. He had no liturgy book with him. But, I had my phone with me. So, I "Googled" Christian burial service" and found several. We were ready! When the time came, Rev. Clifford preached, Razak translated and I helped out with the prayers. We all worked together and God was glorified. The grieving family was most appreciative. And, when we left, we knew we had done the right thing.

Did we have other pland for the day? Yes.Did it matter? No. We went where we were needed. It was a God appointment. This or something similar happens ALL the time. Flexability has to be part of life. If it isn't I wouldn't survive. I guess another way to put it is I need to always be looking for how God intends to use me. It's right in front of my eyes. Lord, may I see the opportunities You set before me.

My Kalsagri Peeps

I drove out to Kalsagri for what I thought would be a quick trip. I needed to pick up some information for a letter I was writing. I was wrong. It wasn't a quick trip. Here's what happened...

I stopped at Alex's house for the information I needed. No one was home. But, I did hear voices nearby. A couple of little children came to greet me. I greeted them and, in my "best Dagaare," I said I was looking for Alex. They looked at me like I had three heads! My Dagaare wasn't THAT bad! Then, a man came over. I told him that I needed information from Alex or at least the key to the church, so I could look it up myself. He said his father wanted to see me. And, while I went to his father, he would find Alex. So, I went to see his father - the Chief Regent.

I greeted the Regent and others. His daughter, Grace, was there with her baby, Richmon. I could tell right away Richmon was not "normal." And that is why the Chief Regent wanted to see me. He was concerned for his granddaughter. He wanted to know if I could help. I explained that I do not have a medical background. But, I have seen many children like this. (My guess was CP, but, I didn't say anything.) I told them that the possible cause of the child's problems could be a variety of reasons. I have seen children like this whose parents cared for them, loved them, included them in family life and, in time, they learned to walk. Sometimes it takes years, but, it could happen! I gave Grace a few suggestions of things to with her daughter. And, then, we prayed.

Alex did finally come. He gave me the information I needed and we began to talk. Nicodemus joined in. They were telling me about the church and how much they missed me. They told me Wisdom broke his arm and Razak went to Clementia's husband's funeral when I traveled. We talked of Rev. Baiden's funeral and people expressed how much they loved him. They told me of the problems with the new Caretaker. (They want me back. It's nice to be missed. These people are family. For a culture that doesn't express much emotion, my Kalsagri family hugs me!) They are going to speak to the pastor this weekend. 

Then, we went to Clementia's house to greet her. She was still in mourning. I spoke with her, telling her it is okay to grieve, to cry, to be sad. They all have their place. I also told her that Christ will give her peace. and comfort. I encouraged her to hold on to her God and He would give her strength.

These are just the people I spent time with. There were so many that greeted me and asked about my travels.  They don't treat me like a "rich white woman." These people have become family to me. They have accepted me as their own. 

And I wonder...God, why me? What did I do to deserve all of this? All of these blessings? And I am grateful. Very grateful.

Today's Prayer

4 December 2015

Good morning, Lord! You are the Giver of Life! You know my comings and goings. You love me just as I am and tenderly teach me to follow Your ways. I need You, Lord. Come, help me. There are things on my mind that don't seem to want to go away. I have been here almost five years. What have I accomplished? What have I accomplished for You? I have shown love to the least and the lost - and to the last - I think about the kids with special needs. I have helped them to become accepted, helped the parents to know that they aren't alone and their children are gifts from You. Your Word is filled with stories about the unwanted, unloved and lowly being lifted up by You. Thank You for these lessons.

But, Lord, where is my ministry going? When I use all the correct "church type" words, I get confused. All I have done was to be here...to love and accept people and show them You. A lot of this has been done in Kalsagri. Has it been enough? Do people really know You? Or do they still cling to their own ways, customs and traditions when it comes to things of faith? And, now, Lord, in a couple of short months, I will be moving on to the church in Kunyukuo. Is my work in Kalsagri done? It doesn't feel like it. It feels like there is more to be done. It's hard to let go, Lord. I want Kalsagri to expand, to grow - not only in numbers and in giving, but in faith, in following You. Watch over them, Lord. Continue to work in their hearts. Continue to develop the leadership of the church in Kalsagri. I pray that when it is time to leave Kalsagri and move on, that the "farewell" and the "good byes" are done well and all of us can look to the future with great expectation. I want to finish well, Lord, for both You and for me. 

I pray for the Kunyukuo church. Prepare their hearts and minds to welcome and celebrate our Saviour and His birth. Prepare me, give me knowledge, strength, compassion, love and vision for this new chapter of ministry. 

One of my concerns today, Lord, is monetary. Giving to my ministry here has gone down. Donations haven't met my monthly expenses in almost a year. I know some of it is due to changes in life circumstances for some people. And, Lord, many have given to this ministry for five years and more! I am so grateful for that. You have always provided through your people. Help me to trust You to continue doing so. Show me, too, what I should be doing to help in this situation. Lord, I am praying for five more years.I know You can make a way. Show me the people with whom I need to connect.

That's another thing, Lord. A partner in ministry sure would be nice...another person to share the joys and sorrows, to see the possibilities and to spur each other on. Hmmmm...

Well, Lord, You know what's in my heart. I give it all to You today. Take it and use it for Your glory. It is in Your holy name I pray. Amen.

A Hunger and a Thirst

October 2014 was a very special month for the Dagaaba people of Ghana. Why? Because it is the month that the Dagaare New Testament was published by the Bible Society of Ghana. Up to this point, there was no printed Bible in the language of the people with whom I work. The Bible was read in English and then interpreted into Dagaare. Many of the people of my church are illiterate. Some are not. There is a hunger and a thirst for God's Word, especially among the younger people of the church. Josbeth, pictured above is a quiet person, not loud spoken at all. A year ago, when asked to read English in church, he would read haltingly, not sure of himself at all. He would read the shorter passages for the worship services. Now, Josbeth comes to church and volunteers to read even the long passages in Dagaare, reading with conviction, as if he really believes what he reads. 

This is Comfort and Samuel. Samuel has been teaching all those who want to learn to read Dagaare and those who can read, but want to read better. Samuel is a church leader and Comfort herself will be a leader some day. Comfort attends Bible study and our English/Dagaare reading classes. She, too, has a hunger and thirst for God's Word. Samuel is hesitant to assign people to read during the services because he wants people to volunteer to read because they have a desire in their heart to serve God in this way.

These two boys are Wisdom (grade 5) and Godfred (grade 6). They walk from their village about a half hour away to attend worship services and when they are able, English/Dagaare reading classes. Wisdom often leads devotions at his school, giving the message. He wants to be a pastor when he grows up. They both have shown that they are hungering and thirsting for the Word of God. The day this picture was taken, they sat under the nymn tree and read the Scriptures aloud for 20 minutes before the service started.

It has been such a blessing to watch these young people grow not only in their ability to read, but in their desire to know the Word of God. New Testaments are made available to those who attend classes and take their turn reading in church during the services. For others of the church, they are made available at a reduced cost. Pray that God's Word would be planted in hearts and that someday, these young people would make a difference in their community and beyond!

A Husband, a Father and a Spiritual Battleground

 

My church members told me last Sunday (Easter) about a man who was crazy. His wife attends our church with his young twins, a boy and a girl. The people of the church wanted me to visit him, but, since they told me that he is sometimes tied down because of the way he acts, I begged off until Monday. That way, Razak and the pastor would be in Kalsagri and if something happened, they were stronger than me. As it turned out, we didn't go on Monday because the man wasn't home. So, we went today. Not with Razak and the pastor, but, with at least twenty people from the church.

 

"He lives just over there," I was told. Fifteen minutes later, we arrived. We asked permission to visit and it was granted. We were led to a place under a large mango tree where two benches were set out for us. My eyes saw what they never saw before. And, my spirit wept. For there, in front of me, sitting on the ground was a man in a dirty, ripped up green shirt and filthy trousers. But, that wasn't what made me weep. That is almost normal in Kalsagri. What made me weep were the shackles on his wrists and ankles. Ofonso, the person we came to see, was in shackles because he has been harming others. He literally picked up a couple of men and threw them to the ground. I kept praying, "Jesus. Jesus." And, I kept thinking of the Bible stories of Jesus casting out demons. And I kept thinking, "Jesus loves you."

 

Samuel was our spokesperson. He talked with Ofonso and led us in prayer. The women sang. It was a holy time. And, here is the spoiled American (me) thinking, "I wish I could snap a picture." But, it wasn't the time or place. It would have been rude and inappropriate. As we prayed corporately, I wept for this tortured soul. Oh, how Jesus loves him. I prayed against the powers of the evil one. I prayed for his restoration. I prayed that he would be given visions and dreams that he would know personally the Lord and Giver of Life. I prayed that he would answer the knocking at the door of his heart and welcome Jesus inside. I prayed that he would one day live his life for the Lord.

 

After we prayed, Samuel spoke with Ofonso some more. He spoke of grace and mercy and the love of God. As we finished up, we asked if we could visit again in a few weeks. He said, "yes." So, please, I beg you, pray for this man, that God would restore him and give him life. And, that Ofonso will live his life to glorify God.

Meh! (No Longer)

Are you on Facebook? You know where it asks, "how are you feeling?" One of the emoticons available says, "meh!" I guess it means that I am not happy, I am not sad, I am just here. That's how I felt today...this morning, "meh!" I needed a change of scenery. So, I packed my bag, got on the 'cycle and drove out to Kalsagri. As I drove, I felt God setting me free. When I arrived in Kalsagri, I visited with the women waiting to have their shea nuts ground at the mill. Then, I went to the church, put a table under the nym trees and had my quiet time and worked on my sermon. Several people stopped by to great me. A few of the children came to play. It was a lovely morning. I returned renewed and refreshed. It is amazing what happens when distractions are removed and time is spend in God's word!

The Battle for John

 

Have you ever felt helpless? This afternoon I was at the Kalsagri Church waiting for people to show up for Bible Study. God had a divine appointment for me during that time...

 

As I was sitting under the nym tree, a young boy came up to me. He looked scared and very distressed. He told me that the wizard was after him, trying to kill him. Now, before you laugh this off and dismiss this encounter, please understand that I live in an area where spiritual warfare is very real, and takes place on a daily basis.

 

I brought out a chair for this boy, and found out his name was John and he was 17 years old. He doesn't go to school, but, he spoke English quite well. His father is dead. His two brothers are dead. His sister is dead. And, now, the wizard wants him dead, too. (Wizard is a term used for the traditional priest. They cast spells, they talk to the evil spirits. In many peoples eyes, they are very powerful.)

 

I told John that the God of the Bible, the one, true God, is much more powerful than any wizard. I asked him if he believed that. He said yes, he did. I read to him from Scripture:

 

Fear not, for I am with you. Do not be dismayed. I am your God. I will strengthen you; I will help you; I will uphold you with my victorious right hand. "See, all your angry enemies lie confused and shattered. Anyone opposing you will die. You will look for them in vain—they will all be gone. I am holding you by your right hand—I, the Lord your God—and I say to you, don’t be afraid; I am here to help you. Isaiah 41:10-13 (TLB)

 

We talked some more. Then, we prayed. We prayed for protection. John told Satan to leave him alone. He told Satan that he (Satan) had no power over him (John.) He prayed and said that Jesus was stronger and more powerful. He asked Jesus to come and protect him. John asked Jesus to replace the fear he had with His peace. We talked some more. I asked John to stay for Bible study (he stayed for most of it) and invited him to church.

 

I don't know all that is going on in John's life. I pray I will see him again. And, I hope I can share Jesus with him again. Please, pray for John, for protection and for the salvation of his soul. Pray that he will be able to connect with others that are faithful to Christ so John can learn more about what it means to be a follower of Jesus. Pray that John will personally experience the love and mercy of our Lord, Jesus Christ.

 



New Life



 

It is FINALLY rainy season. Everything that seemed to have died has come back to life! The desolate, dry farms now have the signs of yams and groundnuts growing. Maize is waist high. Farmers are busy.

 

The same is true of the small Methodist Church in Kalsagri. It has been "dormant" for several years. When I returned to Ghana in March 2013, the pastor of the Lawra Mission Circuit appointed me as caretaker of the Kalsagri church. What does that mean? It means that I am "almost a pastor." Worship services began on Pentecost Sunday, 19 May 2013. We had 59 people in attendance. Since then, out high was 102 with an average of over 80! People are hungry for the Word of God. They want a church in their village. They want to gather together to sing, dance and praise God. And, during testimony time, these same people who have absolutely nothing, give thanks to God for providing for them throughout the week! Even when we met for worship 2 1/2 hours early on Market Day, during farming season, 74 people attended!

 

The new life at the Kalasgri Methodist Church doesn't stop there...a weekly health clinic has been started. Over 70 people are given medical treatment each week. And, on Sunday, they thank God for it! Saturday afternoons, time is taken to go over the Scriptures for Sunday's service. They are read in English, explained in Dagaare and in English. The people who attend practice reading in English. Prayers are prayed. The first week, six students came for this class. Last Saturday, we had twenty students, ranging from primary class 2 to a young man who has completed Senior Secondary School and hopes to further his education.

 

Thanks to our brothers and sisters in America, the church building itself has received new life, too. A new roof, a new floor, four windows, a door, a water filter, fourteen benches, and six chairs are now at the church. The congregation has donated four brooms, two bars of soap, two pieces of cloth and a drinking cup so far. There has been a work day to clean up the grounds around the church; it was well attended.

 

People who have not heard God's word, are hearing. People who have been lost, have been found. People who have been outcasts have been welcomed. People who have been grieving have been given hope. New life comes in a multitude of ways, all given by the giver of life, the Lord God Almighty. My He continue to work through me and through others to bring about His Kingdom on earth...all for His glory!

A Busy Week

 

 

One of my favorite times of the week is Sunday morning, between 7 and 7:30, when I drive my motorcycle out to Kasalgri. The air is still fresh and clean and crisp. Hardly anyone is on the road, only those walking the long way to the Catholic church for mass. My body gets a bit chilled. Ahhh...Then, I arrive at church where at least 20 children are waiting for me. Francis, an 18 year old student has already picked up our benches from the chief's house. He has our little church ready for service. He will teach one Sunday School class to those who are in their teens and older. I will teach the younger ones.

 

We wait until 8:15 to start class. There are 40+ children. Benches are carried out under the big trees and we sit in the shade. With the breeze blowing, it feels almost perfect! I teach the Creation story, saying a few things in Dagaare. I am so grateful when the words come to me! Next, worship service. There are close to 100 in attendance. We are trying to work out how to best arrange benches to allow for dancing. Francis interprets for me. He is learning. (We meet with some other teens on Saturdays to prepare for the service.) The preaching is up to me, with help from the Holy Spirit. After church, people bring me their sick children and their questions. Next, we visit a small girl with a tumor in her mouth. We are hoping to get her the medical attention she needs. I go home and rest before I visit people in the late afternoon.

Monday, is a day of preparation. Fortune, the woman who comes and does some work for me comes in the morning. Anokye will come this afternoon with the water filters for distribution tomorrow. But, mid morning, I receive a phone call from him. He is already in Wa! So, I hurry to Priscilla's house to work with her. I want to have that finished before Anokye arrives. I call the pastor to inform him that Anokye is only 1 1/2 hours away, at most. When Anokye arrives, it seems like my day is finished because I am busy making plans for tomorrow or doing other things, preparing for later in the week.

 

Tuesday, Razak comes on the pastor's motorcycle, I take mine and we drive out to Kasalgri. The pastor is with Anokye and Mary, Anokye's daughter. We visit two communities, greeting people, preaching, telling them of friends in America, showing people how to take care and use the filters and finally, we distribute the water filters. Lunch is served at the pastor's house. Yum! Fufu! Then, I arrive home, mid to late afternoon, exhausted. It looks like rain...

 

 

Wednesday is a health clinic in Kalsagri, the first one. There are challenges...no tables, no chairs, no anything! Everything has to be brought from the chief's house where some of those things are stored. We work without other things. Seventy-seven people are seen today. Most have insurance, some don't. Boy, I thought I was tired yesterday. That was nothing compared to what I feel now!

 

Thursday was SUPPOSED to be my day off...but, I have an afternoon meeting. So, I sit at my desk with several Bibles open and prepare for Sunday's service. I attend my meeting and mention that I was planning to go to Wa on Monday to renew my visa. I found out Monday was a holiday. After the meeting, I rush home, prepare a letter for my pastor that needs to go with the visa documents. He approves it. I get it signed and arrive home about 3 minutes before the rain comes! It only rains a short time. but it did rain!

 

Friday, I got up and got ready to go to Wa. I left my house before 6:30 in order to get back from Wa by mid afternoon. I arrive at Immigration by 9:30, documents, passport, and fee in hand. "Please, God, let everything be acceptable." At 10:30, I leave the office, passport in hand, stamped with my new resident visa. "Thank You, Jesus!" Now, market and home! I do walk in my door before 3 pm.

 

Saturday, I finish preparing for Sunday. I also prepare for our "English" class...going over Sunday's Scripture and Bible study with the Junior high school students. I don't get home until 5:30 or so. It has been a VERY busy week. Lots of things have been accomplished. Mostly, I am tired and am looking forward to a Sunday afternoon nap!

Bura-Ang

 

Today I heard about the death of Bura-Ang, one of our special needs children. She died on Friday, May 24, 2013, in her home in one of the  sub-villages of Kalsagri. Bura-Ang was born with Cerebral Palsy. Here, she would have been called a "baby snake." As time went on, Bura-Ang was able to stand all by herself. The last time I saw her, she haltingly walked to me. She always had a smile on her face.

 

I was told that she crawled to a big iron water pot, pulled herself up, lost her footing and fell in. She drowned. It was an accident. I have seen these pots. They are HUGE! I can picture a small child grasping it and then falling if not sure-footed. Her father told us a different story. He said she was shivering, shivering, shivering...and then just died. Which, to me, sounds like malaria.

 

You see, here in the Upper West, most people are Traditionalists. Fear is a big part of the survivors lives because it is believed that these special needs or "malformed" children have evil spirits. And, when they die, where does that evil spirit go? Everyone in the family is afraid that it will go to them. Plus, a young child like this is not grieved. There is no funeral. And it is part of the tradition to bury right away, as soon as the grave is hand dug. Death is a part of life all too often.

 

As I sat with the family, I was able to share what the Bible says about "these little ones," heaven and the hope we have in Christ. I don't know if I was heard or not, but, it HAD to be said.

 

On the way home, I contemplated the paradox of this death. The mother wants to grieve. Bura-Ang was her child. Angelina (the mother) loved her. Yet, on the other hand, there is no place for a special needs child in this culture. What would become of the child? How will she live? So, a part of what is being felt is relief. Love...relief. What a combination! Yet, a part of every day life.

 

I pray seeds will be planted, doors will be opened, and just as this little girl is dancing before Jesus, I pray her family will come to know Him and some day dance before the King of kings!

The Difference a Week Can Make!

It has been a very busy week! Last Sunday was the first service in almost three years at the Kalsagri Methodist Church. The roof was falling down, the floor was coming up. The walls were in various stages of falling apart. Windows are needed. A door is needed, too. There are no benches to sit on and no drums to play. Yet, people came. People came because there was worship in their village. Is everyone who came a believer? I doubt it. I can see juju on the children. But, give us time. Allow the Holy Spirit to work.

 

When asked what was needed for the church, a new roof was decided on by the people worshipping last week. During the week, an estimate was gotten and approved. And, work began. Off with the old, on with the new.

 

It was also a big week for me. This past week, I drove my motorcycle by myself. I wanted to see what was happening as the work on the roof was being done. So, I drove by myself. The first ride went pretty well, thanks be to God! My arrival at the church wasn't as smooth as I would have liked it...no, I didn't fall or crash...it just wasn't smooth. But, the next day was much better. And, in that time, I actually passed a car! Oh, I suppose I should be truthful and let you know that this particular car was parked! The second day I drove, there was PLENTY of traffic. I drove out to the village twice. And, I saw a total of three trucks, six cars and about twelve motorcycles!

 

The new roof looks quite fine! The carpenter also made a cross with two pieces of wood, one old piece and one new piece and attached it to the church. So, when people came to church today, they saw the cross, they saw the new roof. And, they thanked God for them. Our worship was amazing! People with so little can really praise God! Today there were 86 people at service. Last week there were 59. Next week is Market Day. So, we will have service at 7 AM. I'm not sure how many will come. But, those who come will worship!

 

Being at this little church has really helped me put things into perspective. There is a six week old baby, Vikpenibe, who is so very tiny. His mother has no breast milk. There is a six year old boy, Zumeyuor, who is deaf and dumb. There is a five year old girl, Naamal, who has a major malformation of her mouth. What kind of services are there for these children? Who will help them? National Health Insurance will not cover the types of expenses they will incur. And, I, I complain that some of my supporters have quit giving or are giving less. What is that compared to these issues? Lord, I trust you with these children and with my small petty problems. I want to keep my eyes on You.  Help me be your hands and feet at this church, in the village and everywhere I go. Because of the difference You have made in my life, help me make a difference in the lives of others. In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.