Life on Karanja

2007-12-29T17:07:00.000-08:00

A host of events occurred since the last listed post on this vehicle of information sharing. However, due to some internet difficulties in Kenya, I was unable to post and switched to scottwilliams.myadventures.org. You can find all the lost archives of life betwixt then and now at this locale.

Regardless, I will do the best imaginable to keep this up and running along with the other, depending on whichever you prefer.

On January 9, 2008, I will be leaving the Piedmont Triad Airport in the late afternoon to head back to the place we called home for so long, Kenya. When I return I will find new living quarters, a new team (arriving shortly after myself), and yet still the same delightful people the Lord blessed us with on the last stint.

This time around will find us all having learned more from the King of Kings, having greater expectations and in a few new avenues of ministry. I know these will all be fantastically orchestrated by our Guide and His glory will be seen at every junction. Praise be unto Him and all gratitude owed Him in advance for all that which He accomplishes.

2007-05-29T03:05:00.000-07:00

Rebirth in the Compound…

After arriving back to our place on Sunday evening, I was rather tired from the day’s full schedule and the wearying return, in tow with the drunken Masai. I entered our compound and unpacked my things, finishing a few matters of business before I embraced the comfort of the bedchambers. Just as I was to go to bed I heard a knock at the door produced from the efforts of Moses, one of our delightful guards at night. He informed me that the weekend night guard wanted to be saved. A spark leapt within my soul and I went out to talk to him.

I discovered that they had been discussing some wonderful issues when I arrived and the other guard realized that although he had lived properly, he could not recall when he decided to make Jesus Christ his Savior and Lord. He shared a few words revealing his need and proper understanding and prayed the sinner’s prayer then and there.

It really was a delightful end to a busy weekend as new life was found in our own compound. How great are the ways of the Lord and the work He allows us humans to participate in! May He be praised!

2007-05-28T03:04:00.000-07:00

Return From Nakuru...

After the night of sufficient sleep, we awoke to a sunny morning there in Ronda. We walked to the pastor’s house for some breakfast consisting of plenty of tea and some buttered bread (a definite staple regarding breakfast in Kenya). Again I found the television was on, broadcasting some preaching from Mombasa. We watched this for some time and found that even though Sunday School was to begin at 9:00, the pastor did not leave his own house until nearly 10:00. We followed him about half an hour later and found that the church numbers were down to about six or seven as we lost some of the pastors in attendance from the day before.

Service technically began at 10:00 and was said to last until 1:00. Jackson, my traveling companion shared a few words regarding the Prayer of Jabez after about an hour of singing. Fortunately the Prayer of Jabez has not become so commercialized here in Kenya, being displayed upon paper weights, t-shirts, letter openers, coffee mugs, pens, socks, tattoos, belts and the sort as one may find in the USA. This being the case allowed those people to have never heard the concept and they accepted it with open arms.

It was my turn after some more singing to bring the preaching although it was after 12:00 at that point. It seems to me that if the main service doesn’t start until after the noon hour that it should really be considered an afternoon meeting. Nevertheless, not wanted to get caught up in the technical, I brought a message about the all surpassing glory of the Spirit dwelling inside earthen vessels. It was received well, although with a few less ‘amens’ than the previous crowd.

Service ended for the ‘morning’ session and we were told the elders and pastors wanted a meeting before the afternoon session. We met with them in which they presented their requests and desires for the church, things like new instruments (the Kenyan term involving anything to do with the sound system or keyboard) and so forth. I must say that the small meeting place they had merited no need for a sound system as the human voice was strong enough. Nevertheless, the one they had seemed to do the trick and I am sure it will last for some time. Also they wanted some guidance for the sake of evangelism and reaching the community as they knew nothing of the matter. This was certainly an area that will be focused on and after I am gone Jackson will continue to be assisting them in that area.

The afternoon hours passed on and although we desired to leave by 3:30 pm to head back to Nairobi, the church tied us to another session that began abruptly at the 3:30 hour. Due to our need to reach Nairobi before the late hours we moved quickly and I preached a very short sermon on the imminent return of Jesus Christ. The torrential rains subsided just as we finished and by 5:00 we were on our way by the return matatu to Nairobi. As we were boarding our chariot to be carried back home, we noticed a very drunk Masai man who was in the vehicle. He was not just a bit tipsy but terribly drunk and I knew that would make the ride all the more interesting.

Not more than thirty minutes into our journey he began yelling and complaining loudly in Swahili. I learned that he was complaining of having a full bladder. The shouting probably continued for another hour until the driver finally stopped to provide a reprieve to the full bladdered man as well as the passengers affected by his vocal protests. He warned him strongly to keep it down and he did for the next hour or so until his bladder again grew full. He began repeating himself but to no avail, the driver refused to stop.

We were almost in town when the matatu blew a tire and we were forced to stop. The inebriated passenger was convinced the driver stopped on his behalf and after taking care of business told the driver it was time to go. However, at this point the driver was addressing the needs of the tire and within thirty minutes we were back in transit. We reached town and hopped another matatu to bring us back here to Kibera. By 9:00 we were back in our places of domicile, reeling from the wild journeys of the weekend!

2007-05-27T03:01:00.000-07:00

Nakuru Revisited: The Going

Not long ago our neighbor and friend, Jackson Atsango, asked if I would like to go to Nakuru with him to minister at a church he knew of. I checked the schedule and longing for a chance to get away, gladly accepted the invitation. This past Saturday we departed to spend the afternoon there and the first portion of Sunday. The last time I was in Nakuru was in 2005 when I was here with AIM’s ambassador one month team. Although our time there was not entirely the best experience of the city, I thought I would give it another go. I knew the journey would take about four hours but wanted to put the notion to a test. Gross underestimations seem to be rather prevalent here and I was told shortly before leaving that I could be in Nakuru in thirty minutes, a far cry from four hours. Nevertheless, we left at 9:00 Saturday morning and indeed arrived in Nakuru shortly after 1:00 pm.

As we were passing through the town of Nakuru, I saw no small crowd of people walking near us carrying signs, each one progressing in like step. At first I was sure it was some sort of political sort of protest as they have been increasing in number with the soon arriving elections this winter. Nevertheless, they neared and I noticed they were a peculiar looking people, wearing potato sacks and some looked as if they had gotten into a fight with a large mound of talcum powder. I read the sign and then realized the nature of their march. They were advertising a national day of repentance to take place this coming weekend. I think they were calling for the entire nation of Kenya to come to their knees and repent for the various moral ails the country has fallen into. More to come on this.

Upon our arrival in the city itself, I was told we were to go to a slum on the outskirts of town called Ronda. Thinking this name was a bit peculiar for an African slum, I inquired of its origin. It was not at all in any Kenyan dialect but named for some settlers who previously owned the area. In its glory day it was a large garden, providing food and delights for its Western owners. These days it is one of the largest slums in Nakuru. In either case, that solved the origin of the name.

We found our way to the pastor’s house and sat there talking for some time, eventually moseying over to the church to begin our afternoon session. Upon arrival at the church I saw that we were not going to have any problem with crowd control. The church was filled with around nine people, five of whom were pastors and three of those five were from other churches. I could tell it was probably best to go into a home church sort of atmosphere to keep things simple. Moreover, realizing that we were in an area steeped in syncretism, mixing traditional beliefs with the Word of God, I spoke about Jesus being the only way, truth and life. I learned later that at its beginning stages the church was led by a woman who used charms and spells to assist the members of the congregation, a bit of a no-no according to the Word.

The afternoon session ended near the hour of six o’clock and we went back to the house of the pastor for some supper. Since they had very little I felt as if we were taking the very food from their mouths but ate as we were commanded. Despite their low financial position, they did have electricity and a television in their small one roomed dwelling. I have not watched TV in some time and got caught up on all the news around the country. After the news was a Kenyan favorite, Walker Texas Ranger. Everyone here seems to know Chuck Norris and delight greatly in him as the Texas Ranger. Sometimes we get requests asking if we know him. After Chuck Norris came another Kenyan favorite, Dance 360. It is some sort of program from the Western world where people randomly dance for cash prizes and iPods and the sort.

The entertainment faded on the television as did our energy levels. We walked some distance to a small motel sort of place where we were to spend the night. The place we stayed was right over a bar which played loud music until the wee hours of the morning. Nevertheless, we did get some good sleep and rose the next day to embrace whatever it would bring.

2007-02-26T08:17:00.000-08:00

The Road to Eldoret: Part 3

Sunday morning dawned upon Eldoret, finding us well rested and more prepared to take on the day that was before us. Eating a bit of leftover food from the night before and drinking perhaps a gallon of tea each, we set out for the church. Service began at 9:30, when we arrived, and we were met with more singing and rejoicing. Jackson had been called upon to lead the Sunday School portion and he did so, talking about forsaking fear and its effects. After he finished I suppose the regular service, as it was called, began. More singing came in which one of the ladies leading the procession began shaking violently. I am not certain what she was accomplishing but everyone seemed okay with it so I went along with things.

After a bit of singing the young children came in, singing songs that were distinctly Western. Their first selection was Soon and Very Soon We Are Going to See The King. I wondered if that was one they practiced because an English speaking fellow was coming to the church. Whatever the case, it was delightful to hear them all join in unison to sing a song that I have never before heard in Africa. Following them was more singing and more shaking and then the call for me to come and address the crowd.

Far more people had gathered than from the previous day as the number of fifteen had been left in the distance. With a packed room I began preaching on the imminent return of Jesus Christ and the need for urgency to complete His work among the church. I gave all I could, making sure my last time speaking with them was up to par. Jackson told me we would have the Sunday morning service and that was all. So I finished, ready for a bit of a break and maybe some time to see a bit more of Eldoret that I may know where I was.

The pastor stood and through a translator I understood lunch was coming and then we would reconvene for the last session. He said they would all be in anticipation until then to hear what I would close our time together with. Woops. I missed that somehow in the translation earlier or, in true African fashion, it just wasn’t mentioned. So we went to a lunch of more slaughtered chicken and I was thinking about what the Lord would have us talk about. In my mind a few things were bouncing around and I was getting more set to give it one more go.

When we came back after lunch the singing cranked back up and the shaking lady went into her antics once again. The people were getting more and more wound up and after about a half an hour I heard a great commotion behind me. Out of my periphery I saw this gal waving violently about and some ladies trying to get a hold of her. My immediate thought was that she was demon possessed, which would certainly change the course of the service as we would then need some sort of deliverance message. However, once again no one seemed to be worried so it appeared that her thrashing and tearing off through the chairs was also a scene of normalcy.

Rain had started its pitter patter outside and as we were winding down with worship it began gaining in strength. I was introduced once again, this time the PA system fighting with the loud clamor of the rain. By the time I stepped up front, the rain had turned into a roar upon the metal roof and it was all the one speaker could do to magnify my voice and the translators above its din. Nevertheless, I lit into preaching on the topic of spiritual armor and warfare in the kingdom.

No more than twenty minutes into the progression of speaking the power went out which means I lost both the light and the PA system. The black clouds did their job blocking out enough light that I couldn’t read the Bible in that dark hall and now it was me fighting with the rain’s yell. Fortunately the Lord birthed in me a rather loud mouth, which I was often chided over in my formative years. Moreover, He brought to my mind the remembrance of His Word so we were able to continue without skipping a beat. By 6:00 we finished our time there, having educated and exhorted the people as much as possible. The rain eventually surrendered and the power even came back on as we were leaving the church. The members were delightful and very kind in their regards and blessings.

Upon finishing we went back to Paris’ house for, you guessed it, more chai and some fellowship. Some opportunistic pastors cornered us in the house seeking money and several weeks of our time to spend in the area going to their churches. Unfortunately we had neither to give them and they left with seemingly frustrated looks on their faces. The entire time they were there, those three ducks that lived in the house were fighting under the couch. Occasionally one would bite me in the ankle whereby I would return his gesture with a kick in the head. I am still not sure if they were pets or being fattened up for a future meal. Either way they were not going to make it long if they continued their behavior.

The 9:00 hour rolled around and we boarded our bus, having one more cup of chai and bidding our new friends farewell. We had the same bus driver as we had on the way to Eldoret, who did not know the way nor how to avoid large potholes. However, by great fortune we had no drunk people harassing the passengers and we made it back in only seven hours. So, in less than 50 hours we had gone to Eldoret, held a revival and made it back to Nairobi in one piece. Heading back to our house at 4:30 in the morning a verse from 1 Peter 4:11 was coursing through my mind, “If anyone serves, he should do it with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ.” I was overjoyed to be reminded we are doing the work of the Lord and with His energy, so I only play a small part in that equation. This was a good feeling to know that He did His work and I got to go along for the very quick but fulfilling ride!

2007-02-25T08:16:00.000-08:00

The Road to Eldoret: Part 2

Having arrived in the great city of Eldoret at 6:00 am, I was somewhat weary. However, we had no time to sleep as we were soon met at the bus depot by Jackson’s cousin, Paris. She led us onto a matatu that dropped us close to her home where we would be spending most of our time when not at the church. Once dawn broke upon the land she took us for a quick tour of the slum area surrounding us, called Haruma. We came back to her house after observing the clear distinctions between that slum and the one in which we usually dwell. The slums there have far more room and even areas to have gardens that bring forth a fair amount of food.

Back at Paris’ house we drank what would become many cups of Kenyan chai, a staple to any day. One once told me he could go many days without eating without even skipping a beat, yet to miss a dose of chai was to send him to an immediate lethargic state. Whatever the case, it is not something to be overlooked. Many spoke less English than expected, so as they conversed I found myself slipping into punctuated periods of slumber. Then the waking statement came: time to go to the church.

The time was probably 10:30 and we walked about seven minutes away to a small corner building with a large megaphone looking speaker poking out of an open window. Inside fifteen or so believers gathered, singing to the fullness of their being. Certainly being the only white person there in the whole slum drew enough attention and we were paraded up to the front where several plastic chairs had been reserved for us. I was told I would be speaking that morning but I was unsure at what time or how long they desired, but first worship must run its full course. They sang, danced and praised their way into the heavenly throne room and then it was time for the message. We were introduced but I was able to gather that it still was not our time and then it became clear: the first speaker had to share his word; then it would be my time.

I will confess and be honest in saying that I fell asleep through the most part of the preacher’s diatribe. Naturally I would like to be able to admit that I have never found myself asleep during a service but after traveling over miles of harrowing and sleepless roads I just didn’t have it in me. Somehow I awoke towards the end of his message, the content of which I still don’t know. It was just in time to come to our feet and sing a bit more and then the microphone was handed to me. The moment of truth had come, was their any way I could somehow gather enough energy to tell these people something important from the Word of God?

After a brief prayer, inwardly pouring out all manner of desperation to overcome the flesh, I begin sharing on becoming a living sacrifice from Romans 12. The ideas going in my mind was preparing these people for the service of God there in Haruma. So we began with getting the power of God to them, with the goal of moving to getting the power of God through them and culminating with the urgency of God’s work in their midst. I remained awake during the time I was speaking which was certainly a blessing and led us to the hour of 2:00.

We broke for lunch that had been prepared by the ladies of the church. No doubt they had slaughtered a few chickens earlier that morning and they fed us quite well. Now, not only was I full but content and partnered with the level of fatigue, I was certain to fall asleep while standing on my two feet. Lunch brought a conversation predominantly in Swahili but I have learned that if you laugh when other people laugh it helps things to go a bit more smoothly. Perhaps some of those times I have been laughing at comments made at myself but I am none the wiser and I am sure they are entertained so everyone is still on good terms.

The post-lunch era brought more singing and dancing, leading up to session two, or maybe three; I can’t quite recall what they called it at that point. I began once again, this time teaching about the Holy Spirit’s arrival and His enabling of us to be ambassadors of Christ from 2 Corinthians 5. The people seemed to be with the idea or either the translator was doing damage control, repairing what I was saying, who is to be the wiser? Nevertheless, we finished around 6:00 and had just enough time to run to the bus depot so as to gather tickets for the next night’s trip out of there.

Fortunately we were not sleeping in Paris’ house as there would have scarcely been enough room for her, her husband and children if we were to have invaded. Plus there were three geese that slept in the house who I would have hated to tangle with in the middle of the night. Ergo, we took a side journey to the house of a fellow named Adam, where we were able to bed down for the night. He had a nice place, complete with a black and white television. He had placed some sort of blue-hued plastic sheet over the TV so it wasn’t really black and white but only various shades of blue.

All of that made no difference as I was ready to sleep and for a very long time. However, before sleep they demanded that we eat something. At that point food was a secondary need compared to sleep, but so as not to offend, I hung on to the waking hours long enough to eat a bit of stew. The moments following are not lodged into my memory but I know they culminated with me laying down my weary head. Slumber came quickly and I fell into the land of dreams and the sleepy passage of time.

2007-02-24T08:15:00.000-08:00

The Road to Eldoret: Part 1

A dear friend here, Jackson Atsango, had been talking about venturing to Eldoret to do some ministry there. I wasn’t paying attention to the dates of the trip but realized I had only a day and a half after arriving back from Eburru to get things in order to go. I will be honest and confess that I did not have everything in readiness upon the time to depart, but the Lord was gracious in His dealings with us. Friday night, after teaching at the school, Jackson came by with the announcement that we would be leaving in ten minutes. I was only halfway packed so I threw in the remaining items, knowing not whether I would need them or not.

We hiked down to the matatu stage and jumped a van bound for the bus depot. Our bus was to leave at 10:00 pm but would be boarding at 9:30 pm. The matatu took us to our destination in downtown Nairobi and we arrived in ample time to board and get settled in. By great foresight, Jackson bought our bus tickets in advance and selected the front two seats of the left side of the bus, ensuring plenty of leg room and no chance of claustrophobic reactions. As we settled into our seats, the other passengers filed on, all conducting unknown business in our final destination of Eldoret.

Just prior to the bus pulling away, a fellow boarded the bus who was terribly hunched over, staring blankly into the rows of seats and drooling slightly. I was confused at his appearance and then it became evident that he was drunk beyond all proper definitions of the word. He was escorted to his seat by the bus conductor and I was wondering if he would pass out on the way to be seated. The bus left the depot with a jolt and we were on our way to a place that I had never dreamed I would go.

Around thirty minutes into our transit, I noticed a dark suited figure approaching in my periphery. The lights on the bus had been turned off but the passing headlights revealed the face to belong to that drunk fellow who nearly missed the bus. He began complaining in Swahili to my traveling companion and was redirected to the bus conductor. In asking Jackson what he said, he revealed that the man was saying he had no seat and in his drunken stupor thought that he was the bus conductor. Someone in the meantime the drunkard became unsatisfied and sat down in the aisle of the bus, refusing to move in an almost childlike posture of pouting.

The bus conductor was able to get him up and back to his seat, only for the same process to be repeated several more times over the next hour. I could not understand the heated conversation in Swahili other than the fact that if he didn’t shape up, they were going to leave him on the side of the road. As we neared Naivasha, the bus driver pulled over at a police check point, dismounted the vehicle and explained the situation to several policemen. A rather large Kenyan man entered the bus and began speaking with the drunk man who refused to leave the bus. After the policeman forced him out of the bus he became very humble and apologetic yet it was too late. They put him in the local jail for the night that he may become sober and find some transport the next day.

We had already lost one passenger on the trip and I wondered what other kind of nonsense would ensue during our trip there. The blackness of the night did not permit any views of the surrounding land other than the knowledge that it was vast and spacious. However, the headlights did a good job of illuminating the pothole filled road which the driver had a difficult time dodging. Due to the quality of the road and the elementary skill of the driver, sleep did not come which was a small problem as we were to begin ministry early in the morning. The time passed slowly but provided ample opportunity for thinking about life’s important questions, like what would happen if someone were to splice the DNA of a mosquito and an elephant, or what if a giraffe really did get a sore throat, what then? Anyhow, at 6:00 am on the nose we pulled into the bus depot in Eldoret. Little did I know the adventure that would be waiting around the corner.

2007-02-21T08:15:00.000-08:00

The Eburru Sojourn: Day 5

Wednesday was the day many were looking forward to as we were promised an opportunity for hiking around the area. Our good friend Francis had been born and raised in ‘them thar hills’ and was an expert guide. We set out at 9:00 to visit one of the nine volcano craters that dotted the slopes of Eburru’s mountain. Just as always, travel down the road to the crater was moderately harrowing, causing my life to flash before my eyes only a half a dozen times during this particular transit.

Once safely arriving, we made our descent to the interior of the crater, finding acres of flowers and unique African plants. On the opposite slope of the crater we saw several indigenous colobus monkeys jumping from tree to tree. It is always a delight to see an animal in its natural habitat and this time the area provided for a better viewing of the monkeys than even the NC Zoo can match.

As we reached the top of the rim in our departure, our guide was no where to be found. A few minutes passed and I heard his voice calling from an incalculable distance within the forest. A brief walk carried Brandon and I into a clearing where Francis stood with his shirt off amidst a massive steam vent. We quickly saw the benefit in this and lost our shirts, bathing in the earth-generated steam. Francis told us we will never get sick due to the strength gained from the steam vent and it indeed proved to be healthy for the skin and the sinuses. Upon leaving and talking it over with Brandon, I think we actually found something akin to the fountain of youth rather than an ordinary steam vent. However, we have decided to keep the location secret and just between us.

In leaving the volcano’s crater, we journeyed up the highest peak which promised a great view of the Rift Valley. As we reached the top we were in no way disappointed as we could see for miles and miles in every direction. Some large caves caught our eye and it only took one mention of them for Francis to go bounding down the slopes, leading us to the caves. The particular cave we entered was about fifteen or twenty feet deep, opening up into a room spacious enough for a good card game. However, since good Christians don’t play cards we stood there and talked for a bit and came back out. We were told that a certain species of spitting cobras like the caves as they are fairly warm from excess geothermal energy. Not wanting to meet one in a tight place, we forsook the caving and came back to the camp.

We packed up in a relatively speedy fashion and hit the road with able vehicles and a promising journey back to the slums. The travel went well and without any major glitches, leaving us arriving back right at 5:00, the time I am to be in class at the Bible College. Parking the vehicle I quickly gathered my books and left to go teach, making it just before the students began to despair over my absence. All in all the time in Eburru was a delight and I have no doubt that we will soon return.

2007-02-20T08:14:00.000-08:00

The Eburru Sojourn: Day 4

Tuesday dawned bright and early and our presence on the construction site was requested earlier than we had planned. Mary Njenga, a nurse, has long been wanting to open a clinic and dispensary there in Eburru. However, money and resources have been scarce until the present. They had just received enough cement and blocks to begin the construction of a permanent facility, for which they were most pleased. Five Kenyans and a team of green Americans set out to work together to pour the footings of this 20 by 40 foot building.

Naturally everything was done by hand: the footings had been previously dug, the rocks hauled in, the cement carried over and water (which was to come) was all to be combined. The process was not at all explained to us and random shouts in Kikuyu were all we had to go on. However, we learned the immediate need for water and Brandon and I were quickly assigned to the water detail. We were responsible for hauling the water 200 yards from the tank to the site. This was a continual process throughout the entirety of the morning. Once the water arrived, they begin mixing all the contents: rocks, cement, sand and water, directly on the ground, shoveling them into wheelbarrows for transport to the footings.

This process continued over and over until we neared completion near lunch time. Lunch promised to be especially exciting as it had arrived on a bicycle the day before. The work went on without a hitch and finished with excitement on the part of both Kenyans and Americans. We all posed for one of those “look what we just did together” type photos just inside the newly poured footing and gathered our tools for lunch at the main mud hall.

The previous night, just before sundown, a man came riding up to camp with a sheep on the back of his bicycle. People there can haul all manner of things on their bicycles and this sheep was certainly no exception. The rider dismounted the sheep from the back, tied a rope around the sheep’s leg and tied the other end to a tree. Everyone looked at each other a bit strangely, but in my mind I already knew: a meal had just arrived. The morning of the construction, just prior to the work’s beginning, the sheep was untied and led to the back of the camp.

Curiosity fueled the presence of some while sheer grotesque horror drew the others. I suppose many had never seen an animal slaughtered before and the process came swift and effectively. Our friend and resident handy man had slaughtered over a thousand prior to this one, by his own confession, so he worked with precision and speed. The sheep was slaughtered, cut up and put in a stew before we knew it and by lunch time it was to be ready. Once lunch came around, several had made the claim that they would eat no lunch as they had seen it walking around the day before.

I have to admit the sheep was good. Perhaps I shall even go so far as to say that I liked it better on the plate than standing around making all kinds of guttural noises during the night. Either way he was met with mixed reactions. Brandon named the sheep and wrote a song about him while others avoided the creature all together. We had one team member who has not only sworn off of sheep but eating meat in general. I suppose a hungry enough appetite will cure any previous vows of vegetarian behavior.

After lunch we were given a brief reprieve before surprised with a spontaneous open air service. Instead of much rest, I found myself summoned by some workers in the field who were cutting the tall weeds with machete-like contraptions. I began helping them as fast as my arms could slash the field until I saw the rat’s nests nestled in the fallen stalks of old corn. Adequately distracted, I began digging up their nests and hunting for the voracious ‘spoilers of crops’ as the residents called them. Wielding a shovel, I marched through the hacked up weeds hunting for rats and killed several as the afternoon progressed on. I like to think that word had already reached that far of our rat exploits here in the slums but that may be hopeful thinking.

Once the rat hunting had reached an end it was time for the open air service. Not more than ten minutes down the road was a small convening area where many villagers came to trade and buy goods. Although the number was significantly less that afternoon than is usually there, we sang, acted and preached the Gospel in as many ways as possible. The night fell on us quickly and we had to leave earlier than we thought, but all in all, many were blessed even though conversions were not counted very high.

2007-02-19T08:13:00.000-08:00

The Eburru Sojourn: Day 3

As Monday dawned, we were preparing to go door-to-door to minister to the people that lived around the Eburru area. Due to the type of setting we were not able to walk and cover enough ground, so we all jumped in the van for transportation to our targeted sites. The Njenga’s had planted some corn which yielded a suitable harvest. They had the corn in large bags we were taking with us in order to pass out some food along with the message of the Gospel. We as a team had bought some beans that we took there for the same purpose, in easing the physical hunger of the people there.

We drove along a moderately well traveled road, passing out food on the way and sharing the Gospel with many at one time when the opportunity provided itself. After the corn and beans had been exhausted, we set out on foot to go pray with those in need and share the Gospel to the unknowing. In our first house we found a mother concerned over her child who had a badly infected cut. We prayed first for the child, believing God to restore the little one’s health as he was running a bad fever. Then in communicating with the mother through a translator, I learned that she had not been to church in nine years.

She had previously gone to a church in the area when one of the members had mistreated her in some way. As a result she was bent on never returning and had kept her word. The conversation went on and we learned she was not saved, in addition a lady nearby was overhearing our talk and she came in to listen. She too was unsaved and we rejoiced to be able to lead them both in the prayer of salvation. We told them the church we were working with and gave her contacts and directions that she may begin fellowshipping there.

After this, we found a few fellows working in the field, who we also shared the Gospel with. They said they believed in God but saw no great hurry to be saved. I exhorted them with the Word and did everything I could think of in order to spur them onward toward a decision and to relate the urgency of the message we carried. They didn’t get saved then but if the Holy Ghost continued to work on them as He was doing, it would not have been long after when they would have felt strong conviction.

The door-to-door time, although short, was quite a blessing as several were saved in other groups as well and a good opportunity to distribute some much needed food. We returned to the camp for just long enough to eat lunch and then left to minister at the school. The school in the area was a fair distance from where we were and a terrible road stood between us and them. However, by the grace of the Lord (which now I know is the only thing that fuels our vehicles) we safely arrived.

The children at the school often came from long distances away, walking over an hour to attend classes in the morning and making the same journey back at night. Nevertheless, the teachers were qualified and had a passion for the children there. We led a general group time and then split them into classes in order to minister to them one on one. As the time was drawing nigh to end, one class remained in session and we wondered why the delay in ending as the students had to be leaving to go home. I was then informed that some students in the class were not saved and at that moment three were in process of surrendering their lives to Jesus Christ. Hallelujah for the faith of a child!

The day ended well, with us safely leaving the school and arriving back to the camp. We ate supper and laid down, ready for the construction that was to be waiting for us the following day…

2007-02-18T08:12:00.000-08:00

The Eburru Sojourn: Day 2

The night was still heavily upon us, yet Brandon and I desired to see the sunrise and perhaps the elusive peaks of Mount Kenya, said to be visible in the early morning hours when the sky was clear. Brandon set his watch for 5:30 and we rose to await the dawn and the scenes that it brought with it. Unfortunately the sun did not rise until about 6:30 but we had no way of knowing with equally tall mountains surrounding us. Moreover, and far more disappointing, was the fact that the morsel of information regarding Mount Kenya being seen over the Aberdares was completely false. No ounce of truth remained in that statement, and we were crushed to learn of its falsehood.

Undaunted by the patient sunrise and lies about Mount Kenya, we set out for church, at the new location because of the recently purchased plot of land. Our whole team rolled up to their church tent to find some other Western people there, from the US, Canada and Holland of all places. They had ventured there from the nearby Kijabe mission base and partnered with Steve Njenga from time to time at the Eburru Church.

The congregation seemed to have grown since we were last there, now reaching over 350 members. The church started only a couple of years ago and had five people attending the first meeting. Obviously Steve is being used mightily by the Lord and could teach his own classes about church growth and ministering to God’s people. The Sunday requirements were certainly long as we were there at 8:30 until around 3:00. However, we saw many people and joined in their passionate worship of the Lord.

Sunday afternoon was free by way of scheduled tasks but we spent some time fellowshipping with others and exploring. Brandon and I hiked up Eburru’s tallest peak, only to be thwarted by the thick scrub encircling the top and the deep lava caves that appeared at random. For the sake of remaining alive and uninjured, as well as quickly losing daylight, we gave up the quest for the top for the day. Night fell with an equally grand display of the sky and an even colder temperature. We slept well in our dust free huts and dream filled slumber.

2007-02-17T08:06:00.000-08:00

The Eburru Sojourn: Day 1

We had previously visited Eburru back in November, but were there only for a couple of days, not nearly long enough to see all that the place had to offer. Therefore, our knowledge was limited and our anticipation in discovering more about the strange place called Eburru fueled our onward progress. We left on Saturday morning around 10:00, fully loaded in two vans, as one would not have come close to carrying our team, supplies and donated articles of clothing and medicine to leave there at the camp.

Our main concern regarding the trip happened to land upon the vans that are unpredictable and terribly problematic, both a dangerous combination. Nevertheless, we now know they don’t run on diesel fuel as much as they run on a double dose of God’s grace. After bathing the vans in much prayer as well as our team, we set out on what was a three and a half hour journey to this remote area of Eburru.

Upon arrival we were greeted warmly and it truly was good to be back in such a delightful area. We arrived at coming to this place through our good friend Pastor Steve Njenga. He of course greeted us with excitement and we began to settle in to three of the five huts that comprised the camp, a five star establishment when juxtaposed with any other alternatives. The mud huts had been plastered with cement since we were last there as well as acquiring concrete floors. This certainly kept the dust calmed down and gave us an optimal sleeping environment.

After getting settled in, the fellows led a Bible study for the men while I tried to work on the van’s battery connections as well as faulty door handles. These issues did not delay us but certainly were a pain to deal with in their presence. I was only moderately successful, while on the other hand, the men’s study went wonderfully well. The later afternoon hours were free as our time continued to be arranged and planned for.

As the night fell upon us we ate a great meal and found ourselves getting increasingly cold. The elevation there is the highest we have yet been, as it is 9,300 at its peak. The elevation, combined with the blackness that comes at night, turned the temperatures very cold. I was ill prepared for any such coldness but knew that the colder it was the earlier bedtime would be. This didn’t bother me in the least. The nighttime clouds began to clear and roll back revealing a sky filled with stars that are unable to be viewed here in Kibera. With that pleasant scene, we drifted off into the land of slumber, anticipating what Sunday should hold.

2007-02-12T01:44:00.000-08:00

I am always excited to go to a new church to see the various avenues of worship and congregating that different areas make use of. This past Sunday was one such day that I was able to attend a new church in an area that I had not yet been. Pastor Timothy and I were asked, although for different days, to come and speak at a church in Dagoretti. The pastor who invited us is a student at the African Bible College which explains the connection for the preaching appointment. Being efficient, Pastor Timothy said we should go together and the church would get a double dose of “visitors” and potential speakers. We left out around 10:20 Sunday morning and after a forty minute, pothole marked journey, we arrived at the church.

The church was a rather large structure, housing up to 300 people on a good Sunday. I suppose the numbers was slightly less than that but still a good strong body of believers who we found in full swing of worship when we arrived. The pastor wasted no time in introducing us and called up Pastor Timothy first. He said a few words and then called me up to share a few words. I did so and then he said he thought it would be a good idea if I were to bring the message. Fortunately, after such a situation seems to repeat itself, I was ready for his “delegation.” With that being the case, I shared a bit about the readying of the body of Christ for the soon coming of the Lord and the need to make the most of every opportunity.

After the preaching ceased, Pastor Timothy was approached by a woman who needed prayer. I thought that she was in bondage in some way or perhaps ill. They talked for about a half an hour and I later learned that she was asking for prayer for a husband. That was quite the unusual request in an African church but a legitimate one I suppose. When he finished speaking with her we were caught away to a small building nearby that housed tremendous amounts of food. They fed us tremendously well with a meal consisting of beans, rice, potatoes and more chapati than anyone could eat in a day. A cat belonging to someone was roaming the area looking for a dropped morsel as we were eating but having been dissuaded, fell asleep in the corner.

We sat and talked for sometime about the church, the pastor’s vision, the faithful members and general ecclesiological sort of banter. Just as we had finished the meal, the pastor said he was going to usher us back to the church as they were preparing to embark on a two hour fund raising service. By great fortune, Pastor Timothy told him there was no need for us to sit through the service as we already knew what donation we would make to the church. At that we were released to leave in order to make it back home by dark. What a day it was, a day that truly was a blessing as I was once again able to see another local body of believers join the global body of Christ in worship and adoration of the King of Kings! Amen!

2007-02-04T02:23:00.000-08:00

Our time here has been terribly busy as of late, which is most clearly displayed at my poor efforts in updating this page. However, things are returning to a somewhat normal schedule that does not involve fighting so many fires and solving unexpected problems. This past week was excellent as we began a new course at the African Bible College. I think the potential pastors will thoroughly enjoy this new course: Bible Doctrine Survey. If nothing else, they like discussing and will enjoy talking about lofty concepts.

On Friday mornings we are learning about the book of Revelation. I have read many books on the matter as I passed through a class on Revelation during seminary. However, it never becomes routine and holds great hope amidst the tribulation and destruction of the earth. I think above anything, the imminent return of the Lord encourages His people not to waste a single moment in completing the work He has assigned, for our time has now grown short.

Just Tuesday night I dreamt of the rapture once again. I was outside and saw a couple of rainbows side by side. Thinking it a bit strange, I turned to ask if the fellow beside me saw the same thing. When I looked I found him gazing heavenward as well. Glancing back I saw that the two rainbows had become many and then that glorious trump resounded, calling the church home. Beams of light fell from heaven and snatched away the believers on that field. Who knows, one day soon this very well could take place.

Yesterday I was feeling a bit weary as I must have consumed something which robbed me of all energy, vigor and vim. However, today I have been raised from the depths of fatigue and in due time for I was on deck for preaching. Today I went to the church at Toi Market, a daughter church of my own here in Kibera. I have known the pastor, Humphrey Jamwaka, for some time as well as his family. In lieu of so many opportunities and directions being pulled I had not yet gotten to visit his church until this day. I found it to be a delightful place and certainly full of many who are passionate about their walk with the Lord.

I preached on the life of Joseph and the supernatural positions our God took him. I couldn’t help but get excited watching the seemingly hopeless journey he was on and yet the powerful and swift manner God raised him to second in command over Egypt. This was certainly impossible in the natural as Joseph was a Hebrew. The Egyptians would not even eat with a Hebrew, let alone have one as a leader of any kind. However, that is just like the Lord, to do the impossible.

As I was preaching in the front of that small, shack-like building, I noticed a flash of fur in the corner of the roof. Later I learned that I was being surrounded by scrambling rats on the top of the walls. I think this is a purposeful and disrespectful action from the world of rodents as they, in some fashion, attempt to pay me back for the deaths of their relatives. However, I was not dissuaded and the work of the Lord continued. They shall ne’er be found in our homes OR more important still, standing in the way of preaching the Gospel.

2007-01-22T04:06:00.000-08:00

We have been increasingly busy while here over the past couple of weeks. Ergo, I have had little time to document the course we are currently on. Nevertheless, know that life is grand, things are well and even though the times are demanding, we are soaring on the wings of eagles as Christ so allows. The ministries are going well and everyone has fallen back into the schedule that existed before Christmas, with a few alterations. I am teaching at the African Bible College once more and am one class away from ending the Preparing Biblical Messages and Pastoral Ministry course and beginning with Biblical Doctrine. This will certainly be a pleasant switch as Biblical Doctrine is far more exciting than planning catalog systems to track the attendance of members and visitors at church. Haha This, of course, is certainly necessary but is far from being my forte.

Having returned after the base’s closing over Christmas, of course we discovered that we were overrun with mice which now all seemed to depart with the appearance of the large rat. This rat no doubt bullied them out and had taken up permanent residence in our kitchen. After we found some partially eaten carrots a couple of days ago, I realized this was the last straw. I can’t quite understand the mind of a rat that would take a bite out of each one of the carrots instead of just eating one whole one. It is this sort of behavior that makes me realize the actions are out of spite and terrorism, not a selective diet.

With all this unfolding I realized it was time to take the rat hunt up a notch or two, especially since they were avoiding the traps that were set. I probably would have avoided them too if I had access to carrots and bananas. Nevertheless, I purchased some rat poison that guaranteed their rapid death. Having purchased this shortly after lunch time yesterday, I placed it in the perfect hidden corner in the kitchen and began the wait with a joyous heart. I didn’t prefer this method although it being swift and complete, it would send the rat into a tiny place to die and then I would have to fish out his rotting corpse days later. Regardless, I waited, hoping to see him with an inebriated sort of swagger, sauntering out of the kitchen and then collapsing in death at the threshold of the house.

Later in the evening I took one last trip into the community house to refill my water bottle and in looking down noticed a wriggling tail before my shoe, attached to the large body of a rat. Trying to think quickly, I alerted the other occupant in the room (who was peacefully reading a book) to bring something blunt that I may smash the rat’s head. Just as said occupant stood, halfway believing me, the rat made a run for the kitchen. Obviously the food it had consumed was weighing it down for I have never seen a creature laboring so vehemently yet gaining so little ground. With his lumbering gate I had ample time to reach for the narrow ended push broom, swing it over my head and bring it down in a firewood-splitting motion.

The noise was deafening as the broom struck the floor and I could hear my adrenaline induced heart beating quickly in my ringing ears. As the explosion of power dissipated and I regained my bearings, I saw that there upon the floor laid the stretched out body of the rat, giving a few last twitches before its life on this planet ended. The broom had caught it just above the shoulders in a guillotine style strike, rendering it in a deceased state immediately. I was still stunned by the outcome of the short but decisive conflict and by that time the noise had drawn a small crowd.

A few screams from shock and some from horror escaped the mouths of those standing around the carcass. Some, like myself, were so aghast that breathless silence was the only response. As an ease crept into the atmosphere, realizing our foe would berate us no longer, a celebration ensued. I almost had a glimpse into the army of Israel when Goliath had been dropped in one fell swoop. We rejoiced over the oppression that had been lifted from this rat’s tyrannical rule on the kitchen’s throne. I then carried his lifeless corpse behind the house, where it was left as a testimony to all who attempt to get the better of us. Worry not for we are now mouse AND rat free and will carry on with the work we were sent here to do. Bwana Asifiwe!

2007-01-11T04:09:00.000-08:00

I am delighted to report that Christmas was everything I hoped it would be and more. Thank you all for all the kind words, prayers and fellowship. The time at home was indeed a blessing and I am grateful for that which the Lord allowed and provided. Nevertheless, we are back in business and continuing the work the Lord has for us here in Kenya.

The flight over here was a rather rough one and we were jostled about to no end. However, the same wind that tossed us around was the same wind that took us at near supersonic speeds to London. A tail wind of 150 mph ensured that we made it from Chicago to London in under 7 hours. With this monumental task taken care of, we had just enough time to catch a few breaths before boarding the British Airways flight to Nairobi.

The automatic landing in Nairobi was smooth and precise and we departed to gather our luggage. While there at the baggage claim, we discovered that the flight was full of missionaries, traveling to various locations throughout Kenya and East Africa. I sat beside a pastor from Oregon, going to minister in Western Kenya and met a team of twenty going down to Tanzania for ten days or so. It has become apparent the Lord is mobilizing His church to glean the harvest within these last days.

I was a bit surprised to see how overrun our house had grown with mice in our absence. Knowing the condition of the rodents here I knew they would be awaiting us, yet I did not plan on them being in such large droves. However, I planned for this moment and returned with four, foolproof mouse traps acquired from America. Although I do not wish to endorse any one brand, the traps I gathered are known as Tomcat traps. With a name like Tomcat, you are guaranteed not to miss a kill.

I set up the traps and found instant success as just hours later one furry creature had been ushered into his afterlife between the jaws of the Tomcat. The plan was going well until I was in my room and had a most harrowing encounter. As I was sitting there minding my own human business, a rat the size of the average American cat sauntered into my room as a pompous king would enter his throne room. He sat upon his haunches, oblivious to my presence, and looked about the room admiring his domain. While this is transpiring I, shocked beyond belief, stared wide-eyed at the beady-eyed monster.

I was frozen with unbelief at the mockery this creature was making of my room and I stomped my foot for lack of anything better to do. I looked around for something to strike the gargantuan giant with but found nothing suitable or large enough to inflict any damage. Nevertheless, at the sound of my foot against the floor, he fled. I assumed he left, not out of fear, but out of resolve to collect his rat buddies and all attack me at once.

At the moment I was a touch fearful, but when I gathered my wits I remembered a large rat trap that had been provided weeks before by Melissa. I located said trap, baited it with a piece of chocolate, as all rats delight in chocolate and began waiting for the magic to unfold. The trap was difficult to set and took nearly two of us, but once set it was an explosion just waiting to happen.

Due to jet lag I was unable to sleep last night and while completing a beginner’s level Sodoku puzzle at 3:00 in the morn I heard the night’s silence shattered with the sound of a thousand grenades. Knowing this was the trap being discharged, I cautiously tip toed my way into the communal room where the snare resided. Casting my light around the corner I saw the trap flipped upside down with no rat within. Instead I saw a wee little mouse, split nearly in half from the tremendous force of the heavy metal arm. The poor fellow stood no chance against the rat machine and quickly passed. However, there was no rat.

Disappointed I went back to bed. I wasn’t so disappointed over the catch, as that is one more mark to chalk up for the human victors, yet that mangy monolith is still at large. Will he appear tonight? I don’t know. Maybe tonight, maybe tomorrow, who knows? But of this I am sure, when he strikes it will be swift and with the force of rippling rat muscle. The most important consideration is that I get him before he gets me. The human race depends on it; the world depends on it; let the battle begin!

2006-12-15T03:19:00.000-08:00

As the end of the semester has arrived, we have traveled to the local YMCA to seek residence and solace there. While staying here it is our goal to praise the Lord for the work He has done this past semester, evaluate the ministry thus far and set goals for next semester. The YMCA is simple but nice. We have mosquito nets (albeit with a few holes), clean bedding, a bathroom with running water and even hot showers if you go down the hall. They also have a very good carrot soup with a hint of ginger, which I just consumed for lunch.

No matter, we have been intermingling our sessions of re-entry to Western society, evaluation, and planning with a bit of fun here and there. Tonight we will have a gift exchange, somewhat like a secret Santa. The catch is that the giver must have spent no money and must be as original as possible. I shall be quite intrigued to see what this stunt shall deliver to some of the teammates.

The YMCA also has a pool; a welcomed sight for all, for it is the only pool we have seen since arriving here. I myself have not dropped so much as a toe in the pool due to various reasons, the latest being the simple fact that I ate less than an hour ago and would hate to get cramps and drown this close to going home for Christmas. However, upon my return I think it best to swim a few laps just for good measure.

Apart from this, life is grand, all has been going well and we are looking forward to that time of departure, some on Sunday, and others on Monday. In between now and then we have one more church service, some farewells and packing that holds us in Kenya. I will see you soon and hope all is well!

2006-12-11T01:22:00.000-08:00

Here we find ourselves beginning the last week to be spent in Kenya before the travels Christmas entails. It is a challenge to make the most of these last few days and the opportunities they hold. On Wednesday we will all be venturing to the YMCA to spend some time processing the success and shortcomings of our time here. We will be planning how to make things better and more efficient for the next semester if improvement needs to be made. More than anything else, we want to take time to celebrate and worship the Lord for the goodness and grace He has shown us while here.

It would take more space than this small outlet would permit to document all the amazing things and wonders He has wrought in our midst over the last three months. Our time would be consumed from now until far in the future if we were to sing His praises for only the work He has done here. Therefore, it is with a full heart we experience this week and the blessings it holds.

Merry Christmas early, for the season has already enveloped us and the day itself is drawing nigh!

2006-12-08T01:17:00.000-08:00

This week has been full of tremendous blessings from the Lord. Within one week I had the opportunity to meet Helen Markelova, my lifelong friend, the two men from Thomasville, NC passing through the African Bible College and then last night, some of the most delightful folks yet. I was at the One World internet café, finishing my work when I walked out to meet the surprise of all surprises. A fellow called my name and greeted me, obviously shocked to see me. Imagine my own shock, even greater still, to be looking at Mitch Sanford a dear friend who I had not seen since graduation in the last millennium.

As I turned to face the group I found a collection of people who had blessed my life so greatly in my younger years. David Sanford, my middle school principal, stood to greet me. To his right sat a long time friend, Terry Moffitt, and seated with them were many from their church back home. This was nothing short of a divine encounter, for had I left earlier or taken another route out of the internet café, I would have surely missed them.

I heard rumors of their presence in Kenya over the past several days but feared I would be hard pressed to see them amidst their busy schedule. They were working with New Life Homes in all facets of ministry, assisting them in many ways and in many locations. No matter, for yesterday was filled with great favor from the Lord in being able to cross their path. I sat and talked with them until the time came to depart and left shaking my head and smiling. Only our Lord could allow His children to encounter one another halfway around the world in a quaint little place like the Java Café. Halleujah!

2006-12-07T00:33:00.000-08:00

Visitors of Two Kinds

Yesterday was another teaching day at the African Bible College and I was delighted to find some fellow Americans there upon arrival. The accent I was greeted with sounded awfully familiar and as it turned out, the two fine fellows in attendance were from Rich Fork Baptist Church in Thomasville, NC. It was certainly a blessing to cross paths with a couple of Americans doing work in Kenya, but an even greater joy to find they are practically neighbors to us in NC. They were representing their church and the ones they traveled with, New Directions.

It was a great privilege to talk with them both and discover that some friends and acquaintances were mutual in our knowing. Nevertheless, they had been amidst quite the busy schedule and were just on their way out of Kenya. The pastors at the school were doubly blessed by their work as they held a few seminars and training sessions for them. Whatever the case, it was a tremendous encouragement to talk with them.

The teaching went well as did our team time last night, but when I arrived back in my room, I discovered a stowaway beneath a set of shelves. We have already discussed what a poor habitation this house is for said mouse as there is no food within. However, he must have found something suitable here as it has been his residence for three weeks or so. He, being rather wise, knew to avoid the trap and had done a good job at just that. We knew he was still around because of his tale tell droppings and the fact that we saw him sitting on our desks and other furniture.

He had made himself at home which was not so bad as long as he did not bother us. However, I spied him in my room and saw him climbing atop my bed. Being that I don’t care to share the bed with any such beast, I retrieved Brandon, also known as Bonesaw, and we crammed a towel under the door swearing an oath that only two life forms would leave the room. The encounter would decide just who those two were.

In a frenzy, we threw furniture and all manner of articles upon the floor out of the way as we raced around the room after him. The floor is quite slick which worked to our advantage as he was unable to gain traction. In one wrong turn he ran right underneath Bonesaw’s club and there met his demise. Bonesaw smote his ruin upon the cold concrete floor with a definitive and precise strike. In one fell swoop the club had made brain pudding out of the rodent’s head. It was a high day here in the Baraka house (which means ‘blessing’ in Swahili).

As anyone in the old wars may have done, we made a public spectacle of the lifeless mouse corpse. I think it was a small victory in and of itself, yet a larger message was conveyed: no mouse shall live within unless he is prepared to face a perilous journey during his untimely stay. Rest easily tonight knowing we are all still masters of this castle and no stowaways have any place here.

2006-12-06T00:55:00.000-08:00

The Conquering of Mt. Longonot

This past weekend I was forced to take some time off and decided to take that time in Kijabe. Three others had the same goal and we traveled together by way of matatu to one of the greatest places in Kenya. We hiked around the countryside on the day of arrival to prepare us for the next day’s hike up the mountain of all mountains. Kenya has so many natural joys to observe and even if one was given a lifetime to pursue them all, he would not reach his goal.

The day of Longonot dawned and we jumped a taxi to the base. The mere transportation should not be mentioned but will be for a good chuckle. Since we took a taxi and since we were traversing some of the foulest roads in the area (which we learned are in process of being repaired) the car faired rather poorly. Large rocks sitting in the middle of a very dusty road probably rendered the undercarriage of the car into a state of mangled metal. However, apart from the rough road we arrived safely and quickly found that what we thought to be a 500 shilling entrance fee had spiked to 1400 per person. Yet the mountain lay before us and we would not be mocked by a mere hike in price. However, the hike of the mountain was a different story.

As we began the hike up the side of the volcano of Mt. Longonot, we found an ample supply of zebra and antelope to our left. However, we quickly left them behind as the ridge grew in altitude. Taking breaks along the way, we found our energy level was quickly being depleted due to the altitude and strenuous nature of the hike. Yet the arrival at the top proved to be one of the most magnificent sights to behold. Longonot is an extict volcano that still spews forth a bit of sulfur through several steam vents along the rim. Since it is a volcano the crater inside is quite the impressive place. Our goal was to hike around the rim, a journey that would take nearly four hours, and then descend into the inside crater.

In hiking around the rim we encountered many people, nationals and non, all doing battle with the inclines of the mountain. The balances had been weighed and we were found possessing what was required to hike such a demanding trek. Nevertheless, the stunning vistas and views of the Rift Valley were more breathtaking than the thin air and the burning muscles. We saw snakes, birds of all kinds, insects of the strangest variety and even thought we saw a dinosaur (although this was not confirmed and was most likely a gazelle from a distance). However, we wanted to hold onto hope that dinosaurs still lived inside the crater.

The inner walls of the crater were tremendously steep, some being nothing more than sheer rock faces. Although we had been told a trail led from the top into the crater, we quickly learned this was not the case. However, as mankind always has been driven to do the impossible, we decided we would find a way. Some portions of the rim appeared to be at least 600 to 700 feet from the crater floor while some were no taller than 300. It was at this short expanse we decided to descend into the belly of the beast.

We started down the grassy incline that was no less that 60 to 65 degrees in elevation, grabbing on to any thornless plant we could find. As we dropped to the lower levels we were in the direct pathways of swifts flying about our heads as if we were invaded a protected area. Our time was waning quickly and we only made it about three fourths of the way into the crater, never touching the floor of the bowl. However, we know there is an unexplored world down there, possibly with animals mankind has never seen. Next time we shall go to the bottom and next time we will return victorious, David Livingstone you African explorer, here we come.

2006-12-01T00:58:00.000-08:00

Words cannot express the joy that is felt when an encouraging word or letter arrives from home across the waters. As amazingly wonderful that these are, even better is having the privilege of meeting an old friend across the waters over here. Just yesterday I had the supreme privilege to meet with Helen Markelova, a dear friend from many years back. She is here attending a conference related to her job. However, the favor of the Lord shone upon us both and gave us an opportunity to meet up near her hotel.

Being that our transportation is a bit unstable at present, I decided to take the public transportation to the Jacaranda Hotel where she was residing. I have only driven there myself before and was quite unsure which bus or matatu to select in order to get to the final destination. It just so happened that while at the bus stop I met a dear man named Salah Hamadan. He was from Sudan where he worked among the military and traveled a great deal.

He directed me to a certain bus and told me he was going to the same destination as I. Not only did he ride the whole way with me, but also paid for my travel fare on both legs of the journey. He jumped from the bus to the next matatu and insisted on paying for that as well and even gave me a blow pop he had just purchased at the store. These small acts of kindness began to add up and I was extremely blessed to have made his acquaintance. He was a delightful fellow and we had a good forty-five minutes to an hour of conversation time.

Upon arriving at my destination, I bade him farewell and journeyed to the hotel to meet Helen. I found her easily and was delighted to see that she was well and enjoying her time in Kenya. We took some time to catch up on what life had involved in the past few years as we sat at a delightful coffee shop in the nearby mall. After reflecting on the good times we moved to a small eating place not far away for a light supper. We continued talking about plans and catching up on all we had missed.

As the evening waxed onward the time to leave arrived, but not until I had been greatly blessed by her visit. Being away from home has its own challenges, all of which the Lord provides His grace. Yesterday that came in the form of a dear friend and a much needed visit. Praise the Lord for His divine orchestrating of His children’s pathways!

2006-11-29T01:04:00.000-08:00

While living abroad there are minor things that you never think of before hand, but once you arrive, it becomes a moderate concern. For instance, I have finally reached the point where a hair cut is an absolute necessity. Naturally had I been at home I would have visited my barber, a professional honed by years of practice and success: my father. However, here one must seek out a kinyozi just down the road. Being that I wanted to remain with a bit of hair since I shall soon encounter the cold of North Carolina, I decided to opt for option two.

A girl on the team claimed to have some skill with the scissors as she cut her brother’s hair when at home. She said he seemed to be fond of the haircut and that was plenty of proof for me that she would be suitable for the task. Monday night it began to rain, not some of the gentle rains that have fallen upon us as of late, but rather a severe downpour that threatened even to breach the threshold of our house. It was amidst such a rain and its resulting cacophony that I sat down to have a trim.

The gal did a delightful job trimming around the ears and another combined her skill to shave the neck. I think one’s apparent hair worth is determined by a good clean neck and now I can make such a claim. Clearly I will have had enough of a trim to make it until arriving home in a few weeks. However, it is always true that on the mission field you must be prepared to do more than just preach the Gospel; learn to cut hair, for it may come in handy some day down the road.

2006-11-27T01:34:00.000-08:00

Today we were forced to move today. Not our own dwelling but one of the houses that Adventures in Missions had been renting. The owner decided he wished to sell and as a result the renting of the house had been terminated. We have until Wednesday to be out and today was moving day. In order to get the deposit back that was paid at the onset of renting, it was necessary for the inside to be thoroughly painted. Yesterday the painting crews came in with a homemade ladder and a few brushes.

We awoke this morning to begin the day as early as Kenyans care to, about 8:00 am, and found five men ready to work until the job was done. With them was a two wheeled cart that was about as large as the bed of a small sized pickup truck. They were professionals at arranging the articles from the house, no matter the size, on the cart they possessed. In four trips they had carted all the essential items away and carried them up the narrow stairs to the second floor office about a quarter of a mile away.

After assisting the move, we went back to the house to find the electrician removing all the extra wiring they added. Earlier in the morning the plumber took out the plumbing that had been added along with a tank around the side of the house. The week before, we dug up the plants in the yard and took out the blocks that comprised the patio. The notion around here is to remove anything that was added to a place, meaning that if it is not nailed down or attached, it is to be taken. Moreover, even some things that are nailed down are to be removed. We will be taking a portion of the fence that surrounds the house and a few other things that were added during the residency of the last tenants.

I chuckle a bit as I watch the landscaping removal process and the stripping of other things that were added. The resemblance of a sidewalk was even removed and placed in our mission compound. The joy of doing businesses internationally, as well as different cultures, is wonderfully delightful. It certainly keeps one on his toes!

2006-11-18T23:28:00.000-08:00

Today is our church day. Our involvement with Calvary, the church we are working with, lasts for a good portion of the day. We arrive at 9:30 for the youth service, stay through and contribute to the main service and then hold a Bible study afterwards for the men and women in their respective gender groupings. Yesterday it was my turn to preach and I did so, preaching a message on the imminent return of the Lord and our need to be found faithful. Following said time we convened for the men’s fellowship as the women went to their own.

As we talk to the men we are encouraging them and exhorting them to be greater leaders in the community, better husbands, better fathers and so forth. Regardless, yesterday we were talking about becoming better husbands and did not quite recognize the weighty task we took upon ourselves. Roughly twenty-five men, mostly church elders, joined in a classroom to learn from whatever the white folks had to say. There we were, aged and wise African men, all married, being taught by young, single, white men about marriage. I must say, the odds did not look practical and I questioned of what validity we spoke with.

Nevertheless, they lent their ear and absorbed what was said. They were taking in the information as a spectator would until the issue of proximity arose. One of them asked why men and women were so close in the US and why they seemed so distant there in Kenya. It is quite true, one never sees a husband and wife sitting together in church or walking about in public together. I am told some even sleep in different rooms of the house. Moreover, some were asking the question (even though they didn’t use the specific word) about romance between a man and a woman.

So there we were in quite a fix, wise sages in African society inquiring what they could do to better serve their wives. Knowing that even culture does not separate basic qualities between men and women around the globe, we exhorted them in the way we best knew how, using only the Word as the authority instead of our gross lack in experience or intelligence. The time lasted far longer than we had planned as the men had many questions. We ultimately had to depart and told them we would continue next week. However, I still can’t help but chuckle at the clueless men of the church desiring to become more romantic and tender towards their wives. Perhaps culture and tradition will fall by the wayside as the men begin to “love their wives as Christ loves the church.”

2006-11-18T01:24:00.000-08:00

A man by the name of Joe came to Kenya from Adventures in Missions. His mission was to install a water purification system in order to alleviate the many trips to buy water as well as the cost that said water consumes. Today he is scheduled to leave and we can say without a doubt that he has been successful in his venture.

The technology that causes this water purification is quite novel. I don't know if it is brilliant technology or a bit of magic, but however the machine works, it produces clean water for the drinking. Through the alteration of some plumbing, a new metal stand and a 165 liter drum, we are set for drinking as much water as we could possibly desire.

This is a good thing as our latest mouse pursuits may require additional energy and water consumption. I feel as if the hunt is beginning again with a new sighting just last night. Fear not, man has made it this far through life because he has dominion over the beasts of the earth. This situation is no different and it is just a matter of time before this mouse joins his ancestors, abandoned in the grave.

2006-11-17T02:40:00.000-08:00

Due to the poor air quality as well as the impending allergy issues, I have been delighted to find various local and international remedies otherwise not found in the US. For instance, in the realm of breathing/respiratory aid resides many fragrant and mentholated oils and pastes. One such product I have found great results with, by the name of Cogoni. This is an oil made in India someplace but includes the following ingredients in certain percentages:

Cinnamon Oil 4.445%
Clove Oil 6.668%
Menthol 6.668%
Peppermint Oil 4.445%
Camphor 8.890%
Thymol 8.890%
Eucalyptus Oil 1000%

The figure associated with the Eucalyptus Oil is not entirely correct but as it does not specify, I find it substantial to guess at such a lofty percentage. The directions on the vial read as follows: “Two drops with Tea or Water for cough, colds, flu, gastric troubles, vomiting, etc etc.”

This appears to be a cure all, “good for whatever ails you.” I have successfully consumed two mugs of tea thus far with a few drops of this product within. Other options for use are dropping a bit in hot bath water, placing a few drops on a handkerchief to be inhaled, and similar uses. It did not go so far as to specify, but I am certain it can also be dropped straight into the nasal passages for instant breathing assistance.

Regardless, I find the local remedies to be quite interesting and I am sure half of them would never be approved in the US due to extreme potency. Worry not if you are finding yourself desiring such a vial of wonder oil. If you desire your own, I shall be glad to purchase some and bring it back to the US when I return. This decision should only be made after much contemplation if you truly desire to find the miraculous powers of this conglomeration of fragrant oils. Think about it!

2006-11-16T01:36:00.000-08:00

It is with great dismay yet a sense of hidden adventure that I report the return of the mice. Just last night I found myself back in the African Bible College, teaching future pastors of Kenya. It had been two weeks since I was there as I was detained by travel for a part of the time and sickness the other. Regardless, I returned back to the base following the class and learned that there had been a mouse sighting in the community house, not far from the death of the last one.

At best I have rationalized the return to a new generation of mice. I am not sure how long it has been since the last one was slain, yet I have a notion that the second generation of mice have been born and reached maturity. This second generation of mice do not know of the carnage that was previously unleashed on their ancestors. As a result, history shall repeat itself. These will come, they will be destroyed and their efforts will be mocked by us for weeks to come.

Apart from this bit of exciting information, we continue to spend time living large in Kenya. Life on Karanja Road continues to be rainy and cold at times. However, our spirits cannot be dampened nor frozen as the fiery ministry of the Father is in our midst daily. I will continue to keep you posted on the happenings and delight in your continued interest in the happenings of Kenya.

2006-11-15T01:06:00.000-08:00

It has been some time since I updated those who follow this page as to what life is holding here in Kenya. Due to the travel time around the country these past two weeks I was attacked by a sinus infection which sidelined me for several days. Knowing the severity of the infection and due to having them before, I knew what needed to be done but found no hope in a local clinic. Then, and only then, did I learn that at the local chemist here (our version of a pharmacy) one can acquire prescription medication with no prescription or doctors visit.

Armed with this knowledge I marched in and demanded a new antibiotic, which she graciously gave me after exchanging a moderate amount of shillings. After the first dose began to do its work I was revitalized and have been fine since. However, the illness took a bit of my time here and I missed out on a bit of ministry.

I was strong enough for the journey to Eburru, that was made after both of our vans had major issues befall them. We arrived and found the place to be quite beautiful although a unique location for a village. Eburru sits upon a dormant volcano as most of the mountains there in the Rift Valley are. As a result, water is a big problem in gathering as well as growing crops during the dry seasons. This struggle of life did not create issue in sharing the Gospel and many were blessedy by the Lord.

We have returned back to our home here in Kibera and all is well. The sinus infection has been destroyed and work has returned to its normal schedule.

2006-11-09T05:05:00.000-08:00

I haven't much to allow at this juncture as the week has been spent recovering from last weekend's trip and preparing for this weekend's. This weekend, come Saturday morning, we will be departing to Eburru for two days to do ministry there. Our time will include the normal open air, youth, children, Bible Study and church sort of schedule.

The place plans to be quite an experience as I am told it is unique and unlike any other place in Kenya. This we shall soon see. Eburru sits atop a volcano, ensuring a pristine view of the Rift Valley but also causing life for the inhabitants to be a bit difficult. I anticipate a grand report upon our return of mighty movings of the Lord in the lives of those there. Be blessed!

2006-11-06T01:21:00.000-08:00

The Narok Chronicles: Day 4

Our time to depart had arrived and we awoke bright and early Monday morning to pack up our belongings and begin the arduous journey back to Nairobi. For whatever reason, the fellows we were with decided they wanted to wash the van. Since the rains had come and been duly collected, there was no shortage of water. However, the van was sitting in mud, which would ensure its pristine exterior for only about five seconds after the journey began. They cleaned the inside and out and we packed up our few bags along with a few things acquired in the village.

The whole town certainly turned out to see us off. I was rather intrigued that someone from the village had a camera. It was an old 35mm style, faithful but true. To be honest I doubt that it really had film in it. Moreover, I believe if it did have film, the exposures were over about halfway through our time there and they were just snapping pictures that were going unrecorded. Our departure was delayed at least forty-five minutes due to everyone wanting to pose in a picture with the white folk. The life of a celebrity is a hard one indeed and something I should never care to partake in. It was slightly frustrating because we could do nothing without someone fighting to be in a picture with us. Alas, I was humbled by their desire to capture the time on film but I also felt a bit like the bearded lady in a traveling carnival.

We left to go home carrying more than we did traveling there. Our van held the following: thirteen people (we picked up a couple of ladies who were going to town and one had a rather small baby in tow), the sound system and related goods, a large bag of corn, several gallons of fresh milk, two pumpkins (donated by someone in the church), other random bags of corn and vegetables donated to our passengers, a good bit of water for the overheating engine and three chickens that rode underneath the seats and atop the feet of the vehicle’s inhabitants. With all our goods we headed down the road to get as far as we could before overheating.

Our expedition began well, although rather rough on those roads going through the bush. We passed many breathtaking scenes and had to stop from time to time as the Maasai led their cattle and goats across the road. We dropped one lady off just as the dirt road turned into the paved one and the other stepped off in the town of Narok. There we met up with the village elder who promised me his daughter, to see if we could get the van fixed from overheating. We added air to the tires, filled up with diesel but due to the delicate process of cleaning our particular radiator, he suggested we go slowly to Nairobi and fix it there. This would turn out to be quite the chore. We bade him farewell and set off once again towards our final destination.

Each time we would overheat we would pull to the side of the road, uncap the erupting radiator and fill with water. Only a half a dozen times later we neared the region of our home. Even the lone giraffe we passed on the way there came back to the road for a visit, wondering why we continued driving and stopping. Towards the end of the trip the chickens grew restless and were fighting among themselves, even fighting some of the passengers at times. The riders were getting weary and it was a welcomed sign to see Nairobi looming in the distance.

We made it. We went there, we shared the Gospel and we came back. The van has since been remedied and life is grand. I miss Tendwet somewhat but I also missed the slums. The work of the Lord has been done and we now prepare for our next venture this coming weekend. Travel is wearying here in country but I am confident that one could travel all over the face of Kenya and would not be able to see in a lifetime everything that it has to offer. God is good!

2006-11-05T03:40:00.000-08:00

The Narok Chronicles: Day 3

Church was supposed to begin at 9:30, or rather; we were supposed to be at church at 9:30. However, in true Kenyan fashion, the tea time was extended to a point that we did not arrive at the church until 10:30. Naturally they are free to do such things as no one had a bulletin or expectations for beginning and ending times. The church doesn’t have a permanent building; instead we were meeting beneath a tremendous tree upon a hill overlooking the valleys below. It truly was a beautiful place to have a church service.

We were first to hold Sunday school and broke into groups in a rather impromptu fashion. The service officially began after we talked to the three groups: children, youth and elderly women (rather peculiar classes to break into). Naturally it was a big day for the church of nearly eighty people; to have visitors from across the waters. Therefore, we were seated in benches at the front, facing the congregation, while they were all scattered out, sitting on the grass. They performed several songs for us while we sat and finally our time had come to share.

The whole time the service had been unfolding, I was watching our backs as a band of rain was heading our way. It appeared that it was just a matter of time before we ourselves would be caught in the rain and sure enough, just as I stood to preach, the storm hit will all its fury. A nearby schoolhouse had an empty room and we all ran to gather in that room for the remainder of our time together. The whole church crowded into a room that was perhaps made for forty people and I had the honor of preaching the Word. They were ecstatic to receive the message and we even found a dear lady that could translate directly from English to Kalenjin, that was a blessing for sure.

Prior to the end, a call for salvation came and many in the church gave their lives to Christ. I suppose I assumed that all were saved since the church was rather small; however, some visitors must have snuck in to see what the white folk were all about. As we were wrapping things up a lady came forward desiring prayer for her child. After a translator revealed her words, I learned her child was possessed by a demon and the mother was there standing in the gap for her. We prayed fervently for the deliverance of the child and believed for the Lord’s mighty deliverance.

Service ended free from the rain and they began to pass out clothes that they had gathered from the church we work with in Kibera. In my mind I was wondering how one would pass out clothes in such a situation and feared for the worst. The worst did happen as people were awfully grabby and some protested that they were not getting what they were due and so forth. Fortunately some order was restored; at least I think it was, as we were departing.

One of the church elders and also a village elder invited us to his house to partake in the luncheon meal. He opened up his very beautiful home on ten of the finest acres around Tendwet. The meal was truly one of the best we have had since arriving in Africa. He treated us with the greatest measure of hospitality and truly blessed us tremendously. Naturally he desired that we pray a blessing over the home and pronounce some manner of Word from the Lord. I read a passage of scripture and thanked him and his family for their kindness and hospitable reception of us foreigners.

He stood to provide the benediction of sorts there in his home and introduced his family in closing. Lastly he mentioned his daughter who is studying law in Nairobi. She is his youngest and he was equally proud of her as he was his two sons who own three cows each. Regardless, he finished and then looked at me extending both arms and exclaimed, “she is yours.” I of course was honored to have been given the youngest daughter of the village elder but not quite sure what it all involved. Only later have I learned that he is hoping I shall take her to the U.S. He offered to pay for her plane ticket to America as well as continued schooling there. Two weeks from now he plans on visiting us in Nairobi and bringing her along. That means I have two weeks to scheme and figure a way to get out of marriage and to get out of coming home with a bride at Christmas time!

The meal ended, we departed from what could be my future father-in-law’s home and arrived back in time for the afternoon open air service. Lingering rains put a damper on the meeting until around 6:00 when they began a bit of singing and dancing. After their musical introduction it was my time to bring the Gospel to the thirsty ears of the inhabitants of Tendwet. I preached on the goodness of the Lord and His love in the most contextualized way I knew how and turned things over to Pastor Benard who closed the meeting.

Again there were several who grasped a hold of Jesus Christ or perhaps it was He who did the grasping. Nevertheless, we ended the day with many added to the kingdom and a full spirit from the Lord’s tremendous work. Before bed we had some tea (round one) and a delightful meal followed by some more tea (round two). Sleep came quickly for the day following would be a busy one.

2006-11-04T03:31:00.000-08:00

The Narok Chronicles: Day 2

After a swell night’s sleep, we all awoke to find that we were amidst a very beautiful land. The black of the night cloaked the landscape as we arrived and we were unable to see that we were amidst some of the greenest and finest land of all Kenya. We also discovered that the town we arrived in was called Tendwet. I had never heard the name before, but was glad to be there.

Breakfast was served: all the tea you could drink and some buttered bread. The day’s plans had been set in motion as we were to split into two groups and go door to door to evangelize. However, prior to going, my group was required to pick up a generator for the open air meeting later that day. The village had no running water or electricity; ergo, we were required to find an alternate source of power. The one group headed down the mountain and I drove the other to the unknown location of said generator.

On the way to the generator rendezvous, we stopped at the house of one of the church members. They welcomed us warmly and I recognized that they spoke no English and very little Swahili. We were glad to have a translator who spoke their mother tongue, Kalenjin. While there the man of the house went to fetch his father that he may greet us. His father, in Kalenjin, seemed to be saying something conveying his vast excitement. It was only later that I learned he was thrilled to see a white person. He was seventy-eight years old and had never seen a white man before him. Later that day we came to learn that no one had seen a white person as none had ever been to that village. Through such a truth I have learned that the life of a celebrity is a demanding one. Prior to leaving the house, one of the sons confessed his need for Jesus Christ and we prayed with him there. This began the day of many mighty works from the King.

About halfway to our destination, I recognized that the road was getting awfully narrow. On one side was a perilous cliff while the other side went nearly straight up. Eventually the road ended with no apparent method of turning around and backing up was not an option. At that moment I was thinking in my mind, ‘I signed up to preach the gospel to the world, not drive around the bush in horrific conditions.’ Well, whether I signed up for it or not didn’t change the fact that we were in a terrible fix. The Kenyans saw no issue however as enough nationals can push, or lift, a vehicle anywhere.

We eventually got turned around and decided to leave the van to begin door to door evangelism. The first man we met was a fellow by the name of Mosoli. He was a true Kalenjin, understanding no English. On his head he wore a cap that said ‘Jesus loves you’ and over his shoulders was draped a blanket, their traditional covering. I haven’t a doubt that he found us white people rather novel and am sure in his eighty years of life he had never planned on seeing a white man.

Due to tremendous lingual issues, I had to speak to him through two translators: one from English to Swahili, the other from Swahili to Kalenjin. Yet in speaking to him although he was not saved, I learned that he had a strong grasp on his need for Jesus. The whole time he had been wearing a hat, proclaiming the love of Christ yet never knew it for himself. Ergo, there in the steady rain of Tendwet we dropped to our knees and he asked Jesus Christ to create him anew. What a blessing to see someone so old accept the Gospel! From there we visited several more homes with every inhabitant getting saved. It was a high day in Tendwet this Saturday as so many came into the kingdom.

Later in the day, after our lunch of rice and some sort of soup, we held an open air service in the main square of the village. No less than two hundred people were there, gathered to hear what manner of word was to be shared. The presentation of the Gospel came and several came forward to be saved, one being another old man from the village. Truly it was unusual to see so many older people coming to the faith; these things just don’t happen on a regular basis in Africa. Clearly the Lord was moving powerfully among the inhabitants of Tendwet!

We went to bed that night, after a meal of ugali and some collection of bitter greens. It was rather easy to fall sleep after having walked the hills of the area carrying the Gospel. Praise the Lord for his work, for He has done tremendous things in our midst!

2006-11-03T03:17:00.000-08:00

The Narok Chronicles: Day 1

Much excitement surrounded our departure to Narok and naturally our targeted time of leaving at 10:30 did not happen. We had to drive through the slums to load up the van with far more cargo than I had anticipated. Instruments, a sound system, bags of clothes and a few extra passengers came aboard at the church. When all was said and done, we were ten strong and had enough cargo to run a large gospel crusade.

Our passengers were the following: Pastor Benard, associate pastor at Calvary in Kibera; Umbeo, a renown church member; Francis and Edward, worship leaders from Calvary; Benjamin, a keyboard player, singer and translator; Soi, a man who knew no English but knew the area we were going as it was his homeland (and was rather savvy with mechanical matters); and we four American folk. All of us joined as one to go minister in Narok. There we were, a merry band of ministers venturing down the road with yours truly at the wheel. I just learned a couple weeks ago how to drive a manual vehicle and now it was up to me to get us from the start to the end. This was going to be an interesting trip!

The drive began well but the van we were taking overheated not thirty minutes outside of Nairobi. We stopped, uncapped the volcanic radiator and added some water, a process we would have to repeat several times during the day. Regardless, we climbed the hill towards Kijabe and then zig-zagged across the rim of the Great Rift Valley into the plains. Driving through the flat expanses of the Rift Valley was a beautiful sight, allowing views of the dormant peaks which once were grand volcanoes. We were even afforded a glimpse of zebras, antelopes and a lone giraffe who looked mostly confused and lost.

It was not until four hours into the trip that I realized we were not going to Narok town but passing through, still in the Narok district. Our destination was two hours yet beyond the town through some of the roughest roads one could ever imagine. Ergo, the last two hours of time on the ‘road’ were some of the worst one could conceive in his mind. It was somewhat like a game, dodging the potholes but then the potholes disappeared, giving way to large gullies. The game was over, the sun had set and the van had been overheating even more.

I have come to learn that the estimations made by Kenyans are grossly low from the actual outcome. We were told that it is ‘not far’ from Narok town but as we wound through the bush of Africa, over roads that would be rough terrain for even the most capable vehicle, we learned that ‘not far’ is a relative term. The time was clicking along until we reached the hill. This was not just a hill; this was THE hill of all hills. As we were driving there we saw a storm in the distance about half an hour earlier but thought nothing of it. However, when we reached the hill, we realized where the storm was.

The paved road had ended a couple of hours back and thus the dirt road had become a large track of mud. About half way up the hill we were unable to go any farther due to the terrain; we had reached an impasse. In true form, we dismounted the vehicle and all pushed to see if we could budge the van up the muddy slide. We pushed and pushed, straining against the metal beast which fought back just as hard. Only by the grace of God and perhaps the assistance from unseen angels, we saw the van make it to the top of the hill.

We had nearly given up all hope and resorted to walking the rest of the way. One who had been there before told us it was only about a forty minute walk (gross exaggeration number two). Since we made it to the top, we drove to our final destination, which was perhaps fifteen to twenty minutes down the road. Walking that distance would clearly have taken twice the estimated time of forty minutes.

Upon arriving we were shown where we would make our berth and unloaded. The small hotel was just that. Ten of us were sharing three rooms that were the size of some closets I have seen in America. However, know that after all our travel, this hotel was the most luxurious place we could have imagined. Ergo, after some tea and a few cheese sandwiches, we made our way to the room to collapse and wake the next morning to discover what the place truly held.

2006-11-01T01:18:00.000-08:00

And they came…

Last night as I was laying down my head for another night of rest here in Kibera, the rain began. It was no ordinary sprinkle but seemed more like torrents and sheets of water falling upon us. I fell asleep to this noisy downpour and awoke several times during the night to hear it continuing. This morning upon waking the rain was still going strong and the thought struck me that it would be a very muddy day here in the slums. However, in the back of my mind was a curiosity as to whether the termites alluded to a week or two ago would make themselves known.

In walking from our house to the community house I noticed there were several termites in the mud, obviously beaten into the ground by the rain. Their wings were too matted together and I thought they posed no threat. However, not half of an hour passed until I looked out to see columns of their vast numbers pouring out of the ground. They were finding escape in the smallest of holes and subsequently became airborne to fly wherever any good termite would fly.

I can’t say that it was of plague-like proportions all over the slum, but it just so happens that we live nearly atop one of their underground lairs. As they came forth in their vast hosts, some of the street boys came and were catching them. Knowing they were the ones who ate them I asked the best way to prepare one for a meal. They said it was important to take the wings off so they would not get caught in the throat. I thought that made sense so I pulled the wings off and ate the little thing to truly embody the Kenyan spirit. In my mind I was thinking, after all, ‘when in Rome.’ Perhaps that saying is a more secularized version of Paul ‘becoming as all men.’

Regardless, I shall not try to make any excuse for eating the small morsel; curiosity was the ruling factor more than anything else. The termites didn’t taste bad but I couldn’t agree that they tasted good either. One of the young lads nodded his head as I ate one saying, ‘very sweet.’ I nodded back in agreement but inwardly could not support the statement. After all was said and done I have concluded they are not so bad eating but if one was to make a meal of them it would take a whole lot more rain and a large net to capture the ones from the nest!

2006-10-29T23:58:00.000-08:00

Not long ago I met a dear lady named Dorothy, who worked in one of the local markets. We talked a bit about the Gospel as she knew I was here for the sole purpose of missions work and she herself was a believer. Amidst our conversation she revealed that she had no Bible. We parted ways that day and I made a mental note to acquire one for her and deliver it when time allowed. Yesterday was such a day and I dropped by her small shop to bring her a copy of the Word. She was elated and extremely grateful for such a valuable gift. We talked a bit more and I left her to her work as I headed back to our base.

On the way we passed the big crusade that has been going on since Thursday. The crusade started every day at 3:00 p.m. yet the main evangelist did not arrive on the scene until around 6:00 p.m. It just so happened, that he was up front as we were going by and seizing the opportunity, I stopped that I may listen in to what he had to say. His posters that have been around town for about three weeks boasted of salvation, healing and miracles at his crusade and I thought I would see if he preached a message of truth and conviction.

I stayed for about ten minutes, five of which were spent thanking the various groups that assisted with the crusade. He then entered ‘battle mode’ in which he attacked the NIV for being a poor translation and heralded the KJV as the only true Bible. He spoke of the inerrancies of the NIV and the overwhelming accuracies found in the KJV. His words were delivered with passion and a slight air of arrogance. It was clear the fellow had not been trained as an evangelist but knew he come get a large crowd there off of Kibera Drive.

As I listened I surveyed the crowd that was estimated as being 5,000 strong. We were all scattered across the hillside and my first thought was of Jesus feeding a number of such great proportions. Then I looked at the tremendous opportunity to preach the Gospel to many who were unsaved and needed the Lord’s touch. Instead the message was about the importance of the KJV when in reality scarcely anyone in the crowd had a Bible to begin with. After all, if he is so set on the precision of the original, he should honor the word by preaching in Greek and supporting the New Testament’s original Greek manuscript.

I mean not to criticize his ministry, as I am sure he was convinced in his own mind he was preaching the gospel truth, but I had just come from giving someone a Bible who had none. How can anyone preach a message of such seeming insignificance when compared to the masses that don’t even know the God of the Bible? Moreover, how can one so dogmatically claim superiority to ones who have never seen a copy of the Word? So I leave with that thought, frustrated when man gets in the way, yet hopeful because the ones here are still hungry for the Gospel!!

Just by way of note, I in no way support nor disregard any version nor suggest anyone do so. However, if we really keep the big picture in mind, I believe we will find that some issues of contention are rather irrelevant when juxtaposed with the overwhelming importance of salvation and God’s plan.

2006-10-26T04:53:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was my day to be at the African Bible College teaching classes. I previously had spoken to Pastor Timothy, the one responsible for the college’s existence, and he passed along the material I was to teach. The classes I am now teacher for are going through the course of “Preaching Biblical Messages and Pastoral Ministry.” Ergo, the basic matter is that I am teaching a course that I myself have not been through. Haha but I hope you will not send a message to my superior revealing that fact.

Despite having ample classes on teaching, I have not had a single one on preparing a sermon or ‘biblical message.’ However, I have the course manual and I can teach myself; that shall have to suffice at this point. When this course is finished I will be teaching Biblical Doctrine followed by New Testament Survey. These should be a bit more complete as I have passed through this myself.

Regardless, I am teaching the same class back to back, now I realize how pastors and teachers must feel who have multiple services or classes. The first class I get good practice on and I believe I am sufficiently warmed up for the second. Alas, that is the rub, for the second class is some kind of class indeed.

The idea we were covering yesterday was finding the contextual subject of a Biblical passage and determining the ‘completers’ or points of support for the subject. The course material outlined several of these and then offered a section in which one would complete the assignment on his own. I am sorrowful to report that we never reached that section despite it being only three pages forward in the book.

We started off well but one of the examples listed was about the man in John 9 who was healed of blindness. The basic subject was that not all illness is caused by sin. Yet, we somehow drifted to the issue of divine healing and then the gift of healing and then the gift of prophecy and then the office of a prophet and then the issue of discernment and finally ended when our time expired. Wow, I am amazed at the diversions and side roads the conversation will take. I think it would be easier chasing a rabbit through a tall stand of grass in the plains. Haha so be it; it matters little as everyone is still learning and the Lord is still glorified!

2006-10-23T03:28:00.000-07:00

I have nothing major to report except a new exotic smoothie I tried at a local restaurant. We the leaders escaped tonight for a few moments in order to get a delectable treat from a local shop just a few minutes drive from our place. These moments are usually few and far between and we cherish them when they present themselves. Therefore, it was a tremendous blessing to be able to go and grab something sweet.

My intention was to get some of the delightful Kenyan tea for which they are well-known for, but my mind was swayed when I gazed at the menu. I had never had a smoothie from this place but thought I may just give it a shot. The majority of the smoothies contained ginger and I, being a proponent of ginger, decided that would be the more proper route to take. Ginger has long been praised for its medicinal properties of well-being and has been used for years by way of remedies and support of proper health. With that in mind, I ordered a smoothie named ‘Immune Booster.’

Simple logic would say that something to boost one’s immune system is never a bad thing. As a matter of fact, being in a slum, it is a good idea to keep one’s immune system in peak performance. This immune boosting concoction contained various portions of the following: lemon sherbet, orange juice, sliced bananas, dates and the aforementioned ginger. The fellow placed all the ingredients together and went in the back for the ginger.

He emerged with two sizable chunks of ginger root asking me which I desired. The one large piece was comparable to an economy size glue stick. On the other hand, the smaller piece was more along the size of a large thumb. I would venture it to be about two inches long and fairly fat in the middle. I told him I would gladly take the smaller which he immediately placed in a juicer and extracted at least two tablespoons of pure ginger extract. Mind you, the smoothie itself was not any more than eight ounces and that ginger was overpowering just watching him juice it.

Well, the moment of truth had come, he had finished compiling all the contents; they were pureed and poured into a cup. The first swallow could only be compared to swallowing flaming diesel fuel and each subsequent swallow at least the same intensity. I have never swallowed flaming diesel fuel per say, but I can only imagine if I happened to do such a thing, there would be little difference between the two.

I was able to drink most of the immune boosting tonic, leaving only two swallows at the bottom where the really strong mix was. If the effects it has are based on taste alone, I shall not be sick for the next thirty three years. All ended well, but my once burning passion for ginger products has been quelled somewhat with tonight’s extreme overdose!

2006-10-22T02:15:00.000-07:00

I delighted in reporting the demise of the mice that frequented our area; however, a new threat is on the horizon. Today for the first time in a month or so it really rained. We didn’t get a friendly little sprinkle as it has been doing off and on over the past week; instead it was, in the terminology of the South, “a frog strangler.” The rains came and did a fine job settling the dust and the ever present smog. However, the rains served as some sort of summons in which the water called to the hordes and the masses to emerge.

Rains here do not just fall with an end in mind; they bring the renewal of life in many various shapes. Tonight the rain called out the flying termites. I have heard that the short rains in November really lure these winged beasts out from their underground lairs and that tonight was naught but a preview. Whatever the case, we are going to have difficulty on our hands.

Shortly after the rains ceased I saw the first termite alight in the community house where we had gathered to eat. It naturally posed no harm as none of them do, but there are a few on the team who are petrified of flying insects, especially those with large wings. These termites appear to have two sets of wings, each wing about double the size of its little body. Once the creature stumbled into the house there was all manner of screaming and running about, even worse than at the onset of the mice.

I write knowing full well that there is no such avenue to dispense of the termites as was for the mice. However, I write also with the knowledge given to me, that come November they appear in droves of Biblical proportions. The times now we shall enjoy and celebrate because soon enough we will have half of our team in bunkers avoiding these flying devils.

According to the boys that live just down the street, the termites can be eaten and have the flavor of a lemon. Mind you, when they appear in their mighty numbers, we shall experiment to find out if in fact this is true. From what I understand, it is important to take off the wings so they do not get caught in the throat. Moreover, I wouldn’t mind frying them with a bit of seasoning so they would be a bit crunchy and more flavorful. It appears that our only ally in combating these will be our friendly gecko that had taken up residence in the corner of the house, but even he has a limit to how many he can eat.

2006-10-21T02:04:00.000-07:00

The team up to this point has been above the norm as far as health is concerned. By the grace of our King of Kings we have been in good health as a whole, avoiding any life-threatening ailments. However, due to the foul air, smog, smoke and dust, several have experienced respiratory difficulties. These have sought remedies at the clinic just a three minute walk from our place of domicile. The small medical clinic is a quaint but sufficient place for treatment of the normal maladies of the area.

Nevertheless, I went with a fellow today to the clinic as he has been plagued with what, at best guess, would classify as a sinus infection. We entered the clinic and found no one before us, ensuring a speedy diagnosis. While we were there in the waiting area, the head ‘physician,’ Nancy, was preparing for the visit. For those who are waiting to be seen, a TV sits in the corner for their viewing pleasure. It is nothing more than a thirteen inch black and white TV residing in a rather large iron grate, padlocked and sealed, preventing it from being stolen.

I am unsure of the various television channels that are available here as we have no access to a TV. We waited for a few minutes prior to being summoned by Nancy, availing ourselves to the TV programming that was available. You will be surprised to discover that the channel which was selected was airing none other than Western wrestling. We watched in awe as professional wrestling, US style, was being pumped into that little office. The announcer was yelling and carrying on just as one is used to in passing by the channel back home. Mind you, we have only heard about that kind of wresting as we know good Christian people never watch wrestling or even converse on the matter.

However, I could tell the lady working the books over in the corner was greatly intrigued by the moving pictures she saw on the screen. I told her that not every American was like that, to which she posed a query, perhaps the defining question of the age: “Is professional wrestling real?” She desired to know whether American wrestling was real or fake or a mixture of both. I felt as if I had an opportunity to confirm her dreams or dash them in pieces on the ground. She could have asked no more difficult of a question as it was equivalent with our big questions in life: Is the tooth fairy real? Does chewing gum really stay in your stomach for seven years? Is a duck’s quack really the only sound that will not have an echo? Is the show Survivor rigged or more about playing the game?

Well, these questions and more flashed through my mind when she asked and I was torn; do I tell her the reality behind the wrestling match or just let her continue believing that all Americans enter the ring from time to time to throw each one around a bit. Going against my better judgment, I revealed to her that wrestling indeed was a farce and really it was nothing more than a male soap opera, masquerading in the form of athleticism. Perhaps I should recognize that in bringing truth to Kenya, this truth takes many forms. With this in mind, today the truth became one shade clearer for a dear lady, as one less person is convinced of our wrestling pastime.

2006-10-20T01:26:00.000-07:00

Today was filled with teaching on Acts and the foundations on which the first century church began. As we have been learning what Acts has to say about God’s ministry through His human vessels, it has become clear that it is a ministry of power and not so much of human effort. John the Baptist made such a delightful claim in John 3:30 when he said, “He must increase, but I must decrease.” Is that not the ultimate goal, to decrease so much, to the point that those who witness the Lord working remember not the effort we humans put forth, but the overwhelming glory that the Lord manifested through our openness to Him.

Nevertheless, we are in the midst of a great study and each new time of meeting together brings more knowledge of the Word and God’s mighty work. After the time of teaching, we planned for family ministry that will be taking place on Friday, as well as we fellows planning for our trip that we will be taking a week from today. Doing ministry together as a team is just a blessing in coming together with all the gifts and the talents the Lord has brought under one canopy.

A dear friend by the name of Richard came for a visit this afternoon. I met him about a year and a half ago when I was here before. He works for a ministry, Diguna, that is based mainly on transportation of ministries and goods throughout Kenya and Tanzania. I just discovered that they also have a base in the Congo, Uganda and Sudan. That is neither here nor there because the true blessing was being able to visit with him for some time. He taught me a lot about ministry here in Kenya and in developing a heart for the nation. Richard is from the Maasai tribe, one of the most colorful and traditionally rich tribes in Kenya. He got saved and heard the Lord’s call to ministry loud and clear. As a result he has touched many lives, both African and American. The day was well spent in vast amounts of learning and ample times of catching up with a dear Kenyan friend.

2006-10-19T01:23:00.000-07:00

Our house, although rather fancy due to the exquisite rug on the floor, lacks other amenities which would ease life here, currently running water being of those lacking niceties. Anyhow, the roof sits directly on the beams running parallel with the house and the beams are exposed underneath. Mind you, exposed beams are a tremendous fashion statement and who would not desire them in one’s own home. However, with the baking African sun, the roof heats up and transfers that heat in a microwave fashion into the rooms of the house.

Necessity certainly does breed invention and due to the no-ceiling problem, I thought I could remedy the heat transfer through a novel method in nailing up some bamboo mats. I found the mats at a roadside vendor for only about two dollars per four by eight foot mat. So I go drop a little under ten dollars and acquire several of these mats for use around the house, some of which were to find permanent residence as my ceiling. You will rest assured in knowing that I have made said ceiling and it has already helped in keeping the place cooler. It even gives the room a novel thatched roof appeal.

Regardless, as I was working yesterday to affix this bamboo on the ceiling, I was greeted by a young fellow just outside who wanted me to read a parchment he held in his hand. I took the page from him and noticed it was handwritten and bore a story that revealed the following: He was an orphan as his parents had passed away some twenty years previous; as a result of this loss he was forced to live with his aunt who was a terribly mean and bewitching lady; yet despite all these unfortunate circumstances he knew Jesus still loved us and He would provide for the young lad.

After reading the note I look over the lined, handwritten page at the mere babe of a fellow and asked how old he was. “Twelve” was his response. I look back at the note, marveling that his parents died twenty years earlier. So I inquired of the matter asking him about his parents and he related the same story to me that was there immortalized in text. I shook my head and said that I just didn’t understand it and handed the note back to him. I told him he had no needs that I could meet as he was a walking miracle and went back to my work.

Then just today, two people from the team approached me, both with stories of a young lad whose parents died prior to his birth. I told them they must have met the miracle child and they agreed, saying they too had laid eyes on his handwritten note.

It is sad, but here people make use of others. Some mothers or fathers will often send their children out begging and then take the money they get, never to be seen again by those children. Or vast stories will be fabricated to tug on the heartstrings of passing Americans in order to get some money from them. However, after you have been here for some time and here the same story related of the same disaster that occurs once a week, you begin to understand who is playing the game and who is not.

I hate being in a position where trust is such a huge factor in ministry, but then again this is why we work with the churches that we do. Many will get saved when coming to talk to an American for the sake and hope of getting something materially from the American. However, when it comes time for church, they are no where to be seen. Therefore, since we support the local ministries here, financially and by way of manpower, we have no qualms about sending them to the church for their relief. Unfortunately very few go, either unwilling to pay the price or just not that needy to have to deal with the invitations of the church.

2006-10-18T03:38:00.000-07:00

The week has been a grand one, a little rain, a little sun and lots of ministry. Perhaps one of the greatest matters of the place we are staying is the gardening that our dear national fellow is doing on the grounds. The homestead we make our berth at is lackluster in comparison to anything at home, however, as of late; it is quickly becoming a floral palace. I would not doubt but what Solomon’s Gardens shall soon pale in comparison to this lush expanse. In reality it is not anywhere close but for what we dwell in, it is the world.

I had the privilege of addressing one of the classes at the African Bible College last night. It is amazing their incorporation of Western visitors into their midst. In talking with the one who runs the Bible College, he told me to come and be ready. I asked him what he would like me to speak on as I knew they were going through some manner of course material. He refused to tell me and just said to come ready to talk about anything.

Ergo, I arrived in hopes of talking about the incarnation of Jesus Christ as the Word made flesh along with the anointing of the Holy Spirit on His life. We were going well until one of the members of the class said he thought I was referring to the Holy Spirit too much as “power” and not enough as a person. I assured him that I knew of both comprising the incarnation of Jesus Christ but he obviously thought otherwise. We spent the remainder of the class with him throwing out random verses referring to the Holy Spirit and ended with a comparison to a match in a box. I still don’t know what the match in the box referred to, nor did I ever determine what material the class was actually supposed to be going through.

The humorous time ended with me heading back through the post-fasting Muslim crowds amidst the latter evenings of Ramadan to the seeming lush gardens of Karanja Road. I am supposed to show up to the classes twice per week and intend on the matter but know little more than of my arrival.

Just by way of information, I shall have you know that no mice have plagued the premises since the last one that served as an example for the others. The mice threat has thus been downgraded from red to somewhat of a pastel rose color.

2006-10-16T03:17:00.000-07:00

Two more mice fall in the line of duty…

I write once more with joy that two more of the rodent kind have been slain. This past weekend was full as we were involved in an area youth rally. Many youth were in attendance, all were blessed and several were saved and others rededicated their lives to the Lord’s will. The time was grand but quite consuming.

However, last Friday dawned and we were all gathering for our team time when a loud snap echoed from the kitchen. Immediately knowing that some foul beast was fooling around with the small peanut butter sandwich on the mouse trap, I jumped up to see what damage had been done. As I arrived upon the scene there was no mouse in the trap but it had been tripped.

Then I saw him, the small creature laying about a foot away from the trap. Apparently the force of the snap sent him reeling and left him lying nearby with a massive head wound. He expired and I carried him out, the last time he would be among the kitchen area. This was a delight to add one more notch to the fallen number of mice in the house.

Later on, after our session of teaching on Acts and after lunch had been consumed, we came together to plan for the afternoon’s ministry. Walking in the kitchen I noticed the opposite trap was out of place and there in its jaws was the corpse of the latest victim. Once more my heart leapt with joy as I knew there would be one less creature nibbling away at our food stash. With these events occurring, know that the homosapiens living at the end of Karanja are rodent free and are the dominant species once more.

2006-10-09T05:00:00.000-07:00

People here are so clever and life is certainly more practical in some ways and extremely unpractical in others. However, currently in mind is a scene we witnessed while on the way to Kijabe. Since bicycles are wonderfully efficient and fairly affordable, many people ride them here. Some are so talented that they can ride the things with tremendous loads of wood, eggs, construction materials, chickens, rocks, etc etc…pretty much anything you may imagine.

Anyhow, based on their pervasive presence, it is not at all strange to see a bicycle heading down any of the highways here. The problem comes when going up a hill with a large load on the back of this two-wheeled mode of transportation. As we were driving to Kijabe, going up a hill of course, we looked to see a large bus truck with a new era of hitchhiker on the back. A fellow was on his bicycle and holding onto the back bumper of a bus. The bus was awfully smoky, no doubt causing unpleasant breathing and near asphyxiation, but he seemed to be enjoying his effortless ride up the long hills of the Great Rift Valley.

The cleverest notion of it all is the simple fact that people do whatever is necessary to get around. If that means holding onto the bumper of a bus, being pulled by a donkey or riding a top a load of pineapples, so be it. I fear that laws prevent this sort of novelty in the states but with any luck one day we will see the rise of bicycles in the US once again.

2006-10-08T05:43:00.000-07:00

We arrived back from Kijabe yesterday. Our time there was very profitable as we had an ample mix of rest as well as ministry. The weather in Kijabe is quite pleasant and rather cool as it is nearly a thousand feet higher in elevation from here. Breathing is far easier as the air is quite pure and not nearly as smoggy as in the slums. Moreover, the water in Kijabe is the only place in Kenya where it can be safely consumed from the tap. We were very thankful for those simple niceties and recognize how terribly missed those things are.

On Friday we were able to visit the wards, praying for people who were injured and healing. Many were believers and we were able to encourage them in the Lord. The hospital, although one of the best in East Africa, was rugged by our standards. Many beds were crammed into large rooms and the patients all lay there together. There was a certain sense of hopelessness for those who were wounded beyond a quick recovery. However, their faces did brighten when we walked in with the love of Jesus Christ. We rejoiced as one gave his life to the Lord and was left with assurance of his salvation.

Friday night we had a little campfire outside and roasted marshmallows, a real American treat. The local Kenyans had never heard of marshmallows, let alone see them roasted and consumed. Due to their lack of exposure, we thought it necessary that they participated and they truly enjoyed it, even if they did have difficulty in pronouncing and understanding the “S’Mores.”

It would be unfair if they found a new cultural ideal and we did not, therefore, I was pleased to find a bag of roasted rocks in a small store there. I asked the fellow what roasted rocks were all about, for they really were just a couple of stones in this small bag. He said it was used mostly by pregnant women who had cravings to eat rocks. For those who had such cravings, they would be glad to find that they could enjoy roasted rocks. When asked about the roasting process, the fellow said it involved putting the rocks in an oven and roasting them…naturally. Why didn’t I think of that? Why have I not roasted rocks in the past? I shall never know, but rest assured, we have them in abundance. Just one more Kenyan delight for the culturally savvy.

2006-10-04T05:36:00.000-07:00

Things are progressing well here in Kenya. Today wraps up our ‘official’ time of Kenyan ministry training for the students. Although learning and training never really stops, we will be in full swing regarding the regular schedule come Monday. Even as I type this, the team is out participating in door-to-door visitation.

Tomorrow we depart and journey to Kijabe, somewhat of an oasis here in Kenya, for a bit of a break and re-commissioning. We are excited to make it there as the water can be consumed straight from the tap and the air is not quite as foul, lacking the dense smog and dust found here in the slums.

I am sorely losing the fight with the mice at this point as so many triggerings has rendered it only moderately accurate. However, at some point I am assuming the mice will be too large to move around quickly from the tremendous amounts of peanut butter they have assimilated.

Tonight will be spent with the students from the orphanage just down the road. Our team has adopted a student each from the orphanage and will be spending time with them weekly. This particular evening allows a meal to be shared with them as well as the Kenyan tradition of opening our home and fellowshipping with dear friends. We look forward to this time bringing a suitable influence and touch of mentorship to the students who are otherwise lacking such a friendship.

We continue to see small divine appointments as we go about our days here. To God be the glory. The community has been wonderfully welcoming to our presence and equally so with the Gospel. Many have been touched and this is even without us officially going out with that purpose. I long for our time to begin actively pursuing the needy this coming week and beyond. May our King be praised as we carry His light high upon the hills here in the slums!

2006-10-02T06:39:00.000-07:00

The area that we live in is not dangerous, per say, but the occasional rogue will pass through in attempt to stir up trouble. On the same token, local drunkards may meander by, unconscious of the folly they engage in. Regardless, as a result, the mission houses have a guard that is posted twenty-four hours a day. Such is the case for many similar establishments nearby for the well-being of all considered.

We have a guard who looks after matters during the daylight hours, by the name of Ben, and one who does the same at night, named Moses. Both are delightful men, strong in the Lord and kind in spirit. Moses I see often and when asked what he is doing as I pass, he responds, “Just studying the Bible.” I doubt I have seen many in my lifetime who has been so dedicated or so hungry for the Lord as he.

Most nights I will hear him singing in the Spirit or covering the place, as well as all of us, in prayer. He will walk around the compound praying for the majority of the night as we are awake and then fall into our slumber. I haven’t a doubt that the safety we experience here is brought about by the divine hand of God. Moreover, I haven’t a doubt that Moses sings and prays down the very angels of heaven to take their posts around our dwelling. Glory to God for men and women interceding for the kingdom as they go about their daily tasks. Be blessed!!

2006-09-29T05:58:00.000-07:00

Each passing day is bringing more Kenyan excitement than the one before. Today marks the two week point of being here in country. For the time that we have been here, a small family of mice has resided in the kitchen of the community house. I personally was not so burdened over their presence, apart from the food that they voraciously stole. Nonetheless, when the team arrived the mouse situation was not met with pleasure.

A portion of the team is not afraid of mice, but rather of girls who are. The screams became excessive and the throwing things grew to just as much; therefore, something had to be done. I purchased two smaller traps from a local hardware store that was nice enough to have traps, baited them up with peanut butter and awaited in anticipation for their demise.

Half of a day passed with not so much as a sighting and then turned to night. I was certain the seedy beasts would be active at night but awoke to find none in the awaiting jaws of death. However, around brunch today came the news, “Two Mice Slain in the Kitchen.” The moment we had waited for finally arrived and I went in to survey the damage. The one thing about mouse traps found in Kenya is that they are 100% metal in construction, with a row of serrated teeth where the wire trap meets the edge. Knowing this, I was expecting carnage of mouse-like proportions.

Upon further review, the mice were not damaged beyond recognition, however, they were dead. The one did suffer a gruesome death which I was glad no one was forced to witness. A quick maneuver threw them into the vines behind the house and I was certain our woes were over. As the story turns out, where there are two mice in Africa, two hundred are sure to follow. It appears that not all have been acquired but only time is necessary to bring the others to their doom.

2006-09-28T05:53:00.000-07:00

A fair has come to town. Well maybe not really a fair, maybe a carnival or maybe an expo. I am not really sure what it is, but those are the terms the locals refer to it as. The ‘function’ that has arrived in town has monopolized the water in the area and as a result, there is no water to be had during the day. They are kind enough to turn the water back on into the slums at night. However, this water is more like a trickle and if we desire any we must help it out of the faucets.

In addition, this ‘function’ that has arrived, is no doubt putting a great strain on the power as well. At random times the power will flicker or go out completely. Tonight we had invited the pastors and their wives to our house that we may dine with them. We prepared a traditional Kenyan meal of ugali, rice and stew and were delighted that they were going to be with us.

They all arrived in time for supper as one who lives in Kenya is never late going anywhere. Supper began and we were having a tremendous time dining with the local pastors and family, talking about the plans for the slums and what God had been doing among His church here as of late. We were nearing completion of the meal and the power went out. When the power goes out, it doesn’t just go out, but its absence seems to suck any remaining speck of light into the abyss with it. So we were there in the blackest of night, with not even a match to bring a hint of a glow into the room.

I was all too presumptuous, however, for the nationals kept right on with their conversation and finished eating. As I acquired a kerosene lantern for the sake of light, the power came back on and permitted everyone’s departure in safety. How unpredictable is this place, but how grand its people.

2006-09-26T06:44:00.000-07:00

Kenyan life is in full swing and I am glad to be back. It has been nothing short of sheer joy to be able to rekindle old friendships and have already made many new ones. The weather is quite pleasant, no doubt cooler than it is back in Trinity, NC. It is just cool enough to sleep at night and just warm enough during the day to merit a short sleeve shirt. To be honest it seems uncommon for a country that sits upon the equator.

The team arrived last Friday morning amidst the crowd pouring out of the airport like bees from a crowded nest. They have found the culture to be intriguing and unusual, but so warm that it is disarming in almost every way. Their first two weeks here will incorporate a more site-specific training, that they may properly understand the way one relates to the Kenyan culture.

Yesterday we ventured out into the Nairobi Arboretum, a rather peaceful place in the middle of a bustling city. The grounds were lovely, featuring trees from all over the world. I suppose the climate, being as it is, creates a proper environment for those various varieties. As we dealt with official matters, a group of monkeys handled their own affairs of the day as they stalked us with plans of sabotaging our time as well as our belongings. However, proper foresight maintained our course of action and our food.

The expansion of the Gospel will be greatly benefited by the days that lay ahead. We have already been blessed to see one come to Christ and many more touched by the love of our King through the team. With the more people we meet, the more we are humbled to be living in a culture so rich and so loving. Continue to pray that the Lord will plow up the heart’s soil that the seeds of the Gospel may be lodged deep within those who we share life with.