We have enjoyed two nights of rain . . . more than the Kenyans have had in three years we are told! The people are rejoicing and we are glad, even though we are a little muddy from the work sites! The team asks that you send money because we would like to stay longer but are are not certain we could earn our keep!
We continued our work on the staff flats on Thursday, adding a 5 x 9 foot addition to the staff flat of one of the cooks and spreading concrete for the flooring of a new staff housing complex. We have learned many new skills . . . "slushing" concrete; using relcaimed lumber and innovative carpentry techniques; cutting, nailing and sawing with no power tools. Nothing goes to waste here!
The scripture for chapel this morning was Jeremiah 31 . . . "I will love you with an everlasting love . . . I will build you up again . . . I will make you dance and you will rejoice. . . You will be like a well-watered garden and I will turn your mourning into gladness." I love the words of Jeremiah because they remind us of God's care for us when we are in the "exile places" of our lives, but they take on new meaning when we hear them in the midst of persons whose lives are difficult every day. Surely God is here and these are faithful people who depend on these words of God for their daily encouragement. The pastor reminded us that the steadfast love of God is greater than our sin and surely that is true for those of us who take for granted our abundance. We were reminded to "remember the quarry we were drawn from" and to always acknowledge that the person we are serving in created in God's image. How very true we have found that to be as we have served with these beautiful people.
Daily life here is not easy and we are reminded everywhere of the daily burdens of simply living. Nevertheless, the people have warm smiles and are so very gracious in the ways they serve us.
10 comments:
What a blessing you are to the people of Kenya, as you are to us. We know you are all doing great work and making a difference in the lives of the people you encounter. Grace and Peace to each of you.
May God Bless and Strengthen each of you as you minister to our brothers and sisters in Kenya. I know you are bringing smiles to lots of faces as God's love radiates through you. I love Reann's focus and determination in the photo that you posted. It made me smile as I think of how very special each of you are. My prayers are with you daily and with everyone you see!
Ann Schmidt
What does it profit, my brethren, if a man says he has faith but has not works?. . . . . ., and I by my works will show you my faith. James 2:14,18
How great to be living your faith! Thanks for sharing your days with us through words and pictures. What an eye opening experience for you and the people there as you share blessings with each other. God must be smiling each day as He watches over you.
Wish I was with you - my prayers are there each day.
Janet Hagley
Happy Birthday, Dawne! God bless you....each one of you!
Love,
Suzanne
Hi Candy: How are you doing so far in Kenya - we heard you got some well-needed rain for the people and animals. How hot is it there? Have you seen any elephants or lions or tigers or bears?? We miss you lots and can't wait to see you at THanksgiving - take lots of pictures and bring them with you
Love Carly and Andrew
Hi Candy: Pop and Sophie miss you lots Candy ! We wish you were back here with us but we know you are having fun there and doing lots of great things in the name of the Lord !! Can't wait until you are home.
Love Grant and Sophie
Hi Candy! Our prayers are with you as you do the Lord's work! Love From Brenda, Bill & Your Mom
Hi Candy...sounds like a fantastic experience.. the boys and I are enjoying the postings.. Grant and Sophie will be glad when you get home on Saturday.. they miss you tons.. I have been reading the postings to him... I look forward to seeing you and Grant the first weekend in November..
Love you,
Lori
We are so proud of all of you for your work in Kenya. We continue to pray for you, and look forward to seeing you home soon. Happy Birthday, Dawne. Where are you planning on spending your birthday next year!?
Blessings to each of you,
George
Candy, I am so excited that the Club MAD pictures were well received! I know the kiddos here will be excited to have you back with many stories to tell!
Dawne and all,
Alan Gibbs died this morning. He had gone on hospice just last night. Also, Charles Brownlee had a heart attack or possibly stroke and is in Plaza Med, stable, but serious. Sorry to pass on bad news, but your prayers for them are important! We love you and miss you all. Hope everyone is well!
Love,
Suzanne
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