We arrived safely on Tuesday June 14, and praise God we were able to get all of our luggage without them charging customs fees/taxes, etc. Then began the long journey to the branch location. Since we were beat from traveling for a couple of days and jet-lag we all slept for parts of the ride. Upon our arrival we were introduced to the majority of the missionaries staying here, distributed our luggage, met our host families and went home them after munching on a baked potato bar (it was delicious!). The rest of the week was more relaxed, we were given further orientation to the area (food safety, health, etc.) and some more serious language training.
Over the weekend, we got to get a brief glimpse of the market, played ultimate frisbee with the rest of the branch members and other Americans that are staying in the area. Sunday was delightful, we were blessed to go to a Swahili speaking church. It was definitely an interesting worship service, and it is amazing how God works things out - the man who preached that day shared about his calling to work as a missionary in another location. God is so amazing how He intertwines our lives together with fellow believers, prayer warriors, and persons of peace (those who the Holy Spirit has been working on, preparing them to hear the Gospel).
Throughout the week, we got to meet with different individuals of the branch and chat with them over lunch, training, etc. One thing that really sticks out in our mind is comment that someone had made to one of the missionaries we are working with when she was in Bible college years ago, they declared that they "could never to the mission field because then [they] couldn't sleep knowing of all the people who were dying and going to hell."
Did you catch that statement? Unless we do something about it countless millions will never know the hope that we have in Christ Jesus. Friends if this does not stir our hearts then maybe we need to repent because we are not where we need to be in our walk of faith.
Jesus said in John 13:34-35 "A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another, even as I have loved you, that you also love one another. By this all men will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another."
"O LORD give us a heart for the lost. Do not allow us to have any rest until we are burdened for the lost to the point of action. We pray that You will stamp eternity on our hearts that we may always do the things which will matter on that Day when You return."
Sounds like your schedule stays full!! Have you learned to speak Swahili? I so enjoyed reading an earlier post about a day in the life of a missionary!! Sounds like there is also a "fun side" to your mission!! Of course, knowing you both, I wouldn't expect otherwise. Thoughts & prayers to you every day--we miss you both!!
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