There is just not enough time in the day here to do everything that I want to, and part of that includes emailing you all individually. I want you to know that I have received all of the emails, and they are blessing me. Please keep sending me stories from home. I am sorry if I have not resonded, forgive me.
Thursday was community day, and I am so thrilled to be sharing my experience with you. I traveled to George compound, and the community school we are involved with there is called Jesus Cares George. They are a new school which has never before worked with Family Legacy for Camp Life.
Some of the roads the bus traveled on were exactly the size of the bus so that we were brushing shopkeepers stands as we drove by. It was a little scary, I am always afraid they are going to hit someone. When the bus arrived at the school, there were probably about 100 people standing around. We briefly prayed, and then the kids were off to boldy proclaim the freedom offered through Christ.
I couldn't possibly have enough time or room to share everything, but what I do know is that George is one of the most poverty stricken areas in Lusaka. The need for the gospel there is so unbelievable, and so raw and genuine. Every home that we visited people were eager and ready to hear the words of Christ, and when we were finished people were standing in line for us to come and talk to them. One man who was so drunk he could barely walk approached us and said, "I want to accept Jesus." Then the children prayed for him and went through the evangecube and this grown man just began weeping....right there!
I can't tell you how many times this happened, over and over. The people of these communities are desperate for the love and power of Jesus Christ. They LOVE the evangecubes! It's funny to me, that this is a tool that probably many Americans would make fun of. But to these people, it is essential. It is a perfect visual of the story of Christ, and to have children explaining it is very powerful because usually not much value is placed upon them.
We talked to entire families! People began weeping in the streets. Now, I know that others on our team did not have similar experiences, so I know that the Lord was paving our way and blessing us with opportunities. I have never experienced anything like this, even when I have come before. We were truly blessed.
Amongst the poverty, the death, destruction, struggles, injustices....I'll tell you, there is something that the people have very right here. The NEED for Jesus. I feel so incredibly at home here. Literally, when we are in town, tons of people walk up to us and want to know what it is we are doing here. We have connected with so many people. God is powerfully at work here, and I am so blessed to be a part of it.
I wish I could write of each encounter that we had today, but I am running to meet my friend Raphael for coffee. I am so happy that I have been able to write as often as I have. I still have a cough, but my spirit is well, and I am encouraged. Please continue praying for the new group of children that will come this week, and please pray for me that the message of freedom in Christ would indeed free my own soul in Christ. That the same bondages we are breaking the children of would also be broken in me. ANd PLEASE continue praying for direction and leading from the Lord. I don't know what His plan for me is, but I know that it is big and I am feeling more confidence that He may be calling me here longer term. I love you all!
Saturday, June 16, 2007
Wednesday, June 13, 2007
Story of a Boy Part 2
Yesterday was the last day that I had to go to Matero to see the little boy whom I was giving penicillin injections. Every day that we have gone the family has invited us into their home and we were able to visit and share the gospel for about an hour or a little more. On several occassions, there were 4 or 5 people from the community who came to the house to also listen to the gospel. Even the little children stay inside to hear us read the Word of God.
You know, sometimes when you hear the message of Jesus for the first time, you just want to hear more. So that's what we did, we shared more and more, and everyone in the place listened intently. It turns out that the little boy's name is Christopher. He had told me at camp that his name was James, but that is in fact his older brother. The entire time that I have been seeing him, he has said about one word to me. He's very shy and I'm not sure what is going on with him, but he just sits in my lap and allows me to hold him the entire time I am there. Did I mention that he is one of the cutest little 6-year olds I have ever seen? Well, then again, they all are.
I hope to be able to post some pictures soon, but I have not yet had an opportunity. Christopher missed picture day so he didn't get a "snap" like all of his brothers (who also came to camp). So while I was there, I took a picture with him and his entire family and at some point this summer will get it to him so that he can hang it up on the wall. They were discussing trying to save some money in order to get a picture frame for it. So sweet!
On another note, some really crazy things have been happening at camp. I can tell you that this year is far more powerful than any other year that I have been. As you know, our theme is "victorious in Christ." Our sub-theme is "breaking the chains in Zambia." Let me just tell you, digging deep into the lives of these children and praying for the chains that are binding them to be broken....Satan is not happy. Several people have been witnesses to releasing demons, and although I have never personally witnessed this, I can tell you that it is very real here in Zambia. The number of children that are plagued by nightmares of eating raw meet, drinking blood, and being brought to a graveyard is phenomenal. Some children confess that they feel like someone is tugging at their throat and not allowing them to speak, or choking them, and they have physical marks on their bodies! I tell you, I wouldn't believe it if I hadn't witnessed it for myself.
The exciting thing is that God really is breaking the bondage that these children are in, and I have seen some very powerful acts of God here. It is scary, and exciting all at the same time. I would love to write to you more later, but I have to get some zzzzzz's now. As always, I love you all and am so happy that you are traveling this journey with me!
You know, sometimes when you hear the message of Jesus for the first time, you just want to hear more. So that's what we did, we shared more and more, and everyone in the place listened intently. It turns out that the little boy's name is Christopher. He had told me at camp that his name was James, but that is in fact his older brother. The entire time that I have been seeing him, he has said about one word to me. He's very shy and I'm not sure what is going on with him, but he just sits in my lap and allows me to hold him the entire time I am there. Did I mention that he is one of the cutest little 6-year olds I have ever seen? Well, then again, they all are.
I hope to be able to post some pictures soon, but I have not yet had an opportunity. Christopher missed picture day so he didn't get a "snap" like all of his brothers (who also came to camp). So while I was there, I took a picture with him and his entire family and at some point this summer will get it to him so that he can hang it up on the wall. They were discussing trying to save some money in order to get a picture frame for it. So sweet!
On another note, some really crazy things have been happening at camp. I can tell you that this year is far more powerful than any other year that I have been. As you know, our theme is "victorious in Christ." Our sub-theme is "breaking the chains in Zambia." Let me just tell you, digging deep into the lives of these children and praying for the chains that are binding them to be broken....Satan is not happy. Several people have been witnesses to releasing demons, and although I have never personally witnessed this, I can tell you that it is very real here in Zambia. The number of children that are plagued by nightmares of eating raw meet, drinking blood, and being brought to a graveyard is phenomenal. Some children confess that they feel like someone is tugging at their throat and not allowing them to speak, or choking them, and they have physical marks on their bodies! I tell you, I wouldn't believe it if I hadn't witnessed it for myself.
The exciting thing is that God really is breaking the bondage that these children are in, and I have seen some very powerful acts of God here. It is scary, and exciting all at the same time. I would love to write to you more later, but I have to get some zzzzzz's now. As always, I love you all and am so happy that you are traveling this journey with me!
Monday, June 11, 2007
Oddities of Zambia
Bats....there are bats....everywhere! I here them all the night long, squeaking. They sound like child or dog toys.
Oh, and here in Zambia, the police can take you to jail for no reason at all. A week or so ago one of our drivers was harassed by the police. The police don't have to give you a reason for why they chose you, but then they start asking for money and you are demanded to give it to them. If you don't have it, you go to jail. If you do have it, they take it and then you go to jail. Crazy I tell you.
Oh, and tonight...the students were rioting outside of our compound because the government had not given them their lunch allowances. I'm not kidding. To top it all off, as punishment the city cut off the water to supply to the village so we now have no water. I'm really not joking about this...oh my goodness how different things are here!
In addition, today while we were having camp a former presidential candidate showed up with his political party to convene for a meeting. Nakatendi Hall had overbooked. This man's name is Sata and from what I can tell he is a very prideful man. They came in and started making all kinds of noise while we were having a teaching time for all of the teachers of each school. We were kind enough to move our meeting outside, but I stayed in to work with Adrian on a project. Sata's assistant demanded that Adrian and I come to speak with him. I informed him that we were in the middle of a project and could not be disturbed (really I was buying time to find Moses Zulu the FLMZ director). He looked very put out by this, but I didn't really care. He began yelling at one of the girls in my villa. He told her, "Why are you teaching these orphans about Jesus? They don't need Jesus, they need food."
I just wanted to tell him that I had witnessed what Jesus has done in the lives of these kids. In fact, I've personally witnessed that spiritual food is better for the child than physical food. Many of the children come crying that their stomachs ache after eating (because they are full). Now they definitely NEED the food, but physical food doesn't fulfill the child or make the children happy. Being loved in Christ does!
I've seen the boy with the burned/stoned finger again everyday since I last wrote to you. Everyday we have gone to give him injections and share the Word with his family. It's fascinating to me. People from all over the community come freely to here the teachings of Christ. Even the children are fixated on the teaching. No one talks, they just listen. It's like they are craving to here more. Then, when we are finished they will ask their questions.
Please continue praying for me. My health is not good, I am fighting off a cough and some respiratory issues. I think it's due to the pollution and dust here, as many others are experiencing the same. This happens to me every year, and my spirit is good. I just need prayers for energy and healing. Being closer to the equator and higher in elevation is causing many of the Americans to feel nauseous and drained of energy. Pray for our team. I have to run quickly and get to bed early for some much needed rest. I love you all!
Oh, and here in Zambia, the police can take you to jail for no reason at all. A week or so ago one of our drivers was harassed by the police. The police don't have to give you a reason for why they chose you, but then they start asking for money and you are demanded to give it to them. If you don't have it, you go to jail. If you do have it, they take it and then you go to jail. Crazy I tell you.
Oh, and tonight...the students were rioting outside of our compound because the government had not given them their lunch allowances. I'm not kidding. To top it all off, as punishment the city cut off the water to supply to the village so we now have no water. I'm really not joking about this...oh my goodness how different things are here!
In addition, today while we were having camp a former presidential candidate showed up with his political party to convene for a meeting. Nakatendi Hall had overbooked. This man's name is Sata and from what I can tell he is a very prideful man. They came in and started making all kinds of noise while we were having a teaching time for all of the teachers of each school. We were kind enough to move our meeting outside, but I stayed in to work with Adrian on a project. Sata's assistant demanded that Adrian and I come to speak with him. I informed him that we were in the middle of a project and could not be disturbed (really I was buying time to find Moses Zulu the FLMZ director). He looked very put out by this, but I didn't really care. He began yelling at one of the girls in my villa. He told her, "Why are you teaching these orphans about Jesus? They don't need Jesus, they need food."
I just wanted to tell him that I had witnessed what Jesus has done in the lives of these kids. In fact, I've personally witnessed that spiritual food is better for the child than physical food. Many of the children come crying that their stomachs ache after eating (because they are full). Now they definitely NEED the food, but physical food doesn't fulfill the child or make the children happy. Being loved in Christ does!
I've seen the boy with the burned/stoned finger again everyday since I last wrote to you. Everyday we have gone to give him injections and share the Word with his family. It's fascinating to me. People from all over the community come freely to here the teachings of Christ. Even the children are fixated on the teaching. No one talks, they just listen. It's like they are craving to here more. Then, when we are finished they will ask their questions.
Please continue praying for me. My health is not good, I am fighting off a cough and some respiratory issues. I think it's due to the pollution and dust here, as many others are experiencing the same. This happens to me every year, and my spirit is good. I just need prayers for energy and healing. Being closer to the equator and higher in elevation is causing many of the Americans to feel nauseous and drained of energy. Pray for our team. I have to run quickly and get to bed early for some much needed rest. I love you all!
Friday, June 8, 2007
Story of a Boy
The first week of camp is officially over and I have so much to report that all I will say is...God never fails to amaze me. There are so many ways that God showed His glory and power that you will just have to ask me about them when I return.
What I want to tell you about this evening is the experience that I had today. On Wednesday, a little boy named Christopher came to see Gertrude and I at the nurse's station. His right pinky finger had been severely burned and was completely full of pus. It looked terrible. There was a big blister that had popped and pus was oozing everywhere. I want to be graphic because I want you to understand what it is that I saw. He reported that his friend had shoved his finger in a fire, but even that story could be false. You wouldn't believe me if I told you the lack of information that is available in this place.
So, Wednesday was his frist day to come to camp. We treated his finger and informed him that he needed to come back to see us. Thursday was shoe day, so it was to crazy to even see children at the nurse's station, so today we found James. His finger looked worse, pus was still oozing everywhere and wreaked of infection. Now, our nurse's station is strictly basic, cleaning and treating minor wounds, tylenol and advil for headaches, etc.
I knew immediately that I could do nothing for him. Luckily there is a clinic right down the street and I received permission from Greer to take him to the clinic. Gertrude and I took him to the clinic where we received some antibiotics and treatment for worms as well as some painkillers...all for the cost of $1.00! And yet still, no one bothers to take this child to the clinic! The depravity of these children is extraordinary. The nurse at the clinic told me that he would need to be getting penicillin injections for the next 5 days and that he would need to come to the clinic. Well of course, how am I supposed to make sure that his caregivers take him? This woman was extremely gracious and agreed to give me all of the shots so that I could go to Christopher's home and give them to him. Afterwards Gertrude informed me that this was extremely rare, and that God had blessed us through the nurse.
This afternoon, we traveled to his house (which involved alot of walking) to give his father instructions on giving him the medication. All the while we were walking, 40 or so kids just followed us around. I kept picking them up and holding them, greeting them in Nyanja (which they love) and loving them. When we finally arrived to Christopher's home, we met his father who is sick with Malaria. I spoke to him in the brief Nyanja that I knew and then Gertrude and Paul helped to translate. He warmly invited us into his home and informed us that Christopher had told him about the enitre day. He thanked us for what we had done. I gave him some instructions on how to give the medication and asked if I could come each day to give Christopher the injections. He kindly agreed and then we sat around and shared the Good News of Christ. We explained to him that in Christ he was loved, that he was accepted into God's family, secure if he believes faithfully, and that Christ offers freedom!
The expression on the man's face instantly changed from sadness to joy! He said that he wanted to have all of those things and Paul led him in prayer. We then offered to pray over him for his health and he accepted. The man thanked us repeatedly and said that he was looking forward to seeing us tomorrow.
This experience was beautiful for me. The teachers of the school came with us to the house, and they were able to witness Christians carrying out the word of God and they informed us that they were changed by their experience at camp this week. It was a joyful experience for all, and I love communing with people in the communities. I wish I could convey to you what it was like to be here, and travel all of the dusty dirt roads to seek out those who are hurting. Somehow this is wonderful to me, and the Lord continues to bless me extravagantly!
What I want to tell you about this evening is the experience that I had today. On Wednesday, a little boy named Christopher came to see Gertrude and I at the nurse's station. His right pinky finger had been severely burned and was completely full of pus. It looked terrible. There was a big blister that had popped and pus was oozing everywhere. I want to be graphic because I want you to understand what it is that I saw. He reported that his friend had shoved his finger in a fire, but even that story could be false. You wouldn't believe me if I told you the lack of information that is available in this place.
So, Wednesday was his frist day to come to camp. We treated his finger and informed him that he needed to come back to see us. Thursday was shoe day, so it was to crazy to even see children at the nurse's station, so today we found James. His finger looked worse, pus was still oozing everywhere and wreaked of infection. Now, our nurse's station is strictly basic, cleaning and treating minor wounds, tylenol and advil for headaches, etc.
I knew immediately that I could do nothing for him. Luckily there is a clinic right down the street and I received permission from Greer to take him to the clinic. Gertrude and I took him to the clinic where we received some antibiotics and treatment for worms as well as some painkillers...all for the cost of $1.00! And yet still, no one bothers to take this child to the clinic! The depravity of these children is extraordinary. The nurse at the clinic told me that he would need to be getting penicillin injections for the next 5 days and that he would need to come to the clinic. Well of course, how am I supposed to make sure that his caregivers take him? This woman was extremely gracious and agreed to give me all of the shots so that I could go to Christopher's home and give them to him. Afterwards Gertrude informed me that this was extremely rare, and that God had blessed us through the nurse.
This afternoon, we traveled to his house (which involved alot of walking) to give his father instructions on giving him the medication. All the while we were walking, 40 or so kids just followed us around. I kept picking them up and holding them, greeting them in Nyanja (which they love) and loving them. When we finally arrived to Christopher's home, we met his father who is sick with Malaria. I spoke to him in the brief Nyanja that I knew and then Gertrude and Paul helped to translate. He warmly invited us into his home and informed us that Christopher had told him about the enitre day. He thanked us for what we had done. I gave him some instructions on how to give the medication and asked if I could come each day to give Christopher the injections. He kindly agreed and then we sat around and shared the Good News of Christ. We explained to him that in Christ he was loved, that he was accepted into God's family, secure if he believes faithfully, and that Christ offers freedom!
The expression on the man's face instantly changed from sadness to joy! He said that he wanted to have all of those things and Paul led him in prayer. We then offered to pray over him for his health and he accepted. The man thanked us repeatedly and said that he was looking forward to seeing us tomorrow.
This experience was beautiful for me. The teachers of the school came with us to the house, and they were able to witness Christians carrying out the word of God and they informed us that they were changed by their experience at camp this week. It was a joyful experience for all, and I love communing with people in the communities. I wish I could convey to you what it was like to be here, and travel all of the dusty dirt roads to seek out those who are hurting. Somehow this is wonderful to me, and the Lord continues to bless me extravagantly!
Tuesday, June 5, 2007
Community Schools
Mwachoma Bwanji! (Good afternoon)
Well, today is the second day of camp and I can honestly say that after being an administrator for two days, I have never given enough thanks and credit to those in full time ministry. It is tough. There are so many people to please, and so many great ideas that work....in theory. Practically those ideas are a nightmare. :) The Lord is definitely growing me and stretching me and I am glad for it.
Last Friday I was able to tag along with two of the discipleship leaders (Innocent and Naomi) to visit three of the community schools that are here for camp this week; Jesus Army, Restoration, Swesta, Ibex Hill, and Bethel. We went out to the schools to distribute tyvex, the paper arm band that all of the children must have on to come to camp life. Attendance at camp is based upon school attendance so that the discipleship leaders can follow up with the kids year round. Though some other children show up around the time of camp because they know it is coming, they are not allowed to come. Camp life is an incentive for school attendance and the discipleship leaders go to each school every day.
When we showed up we were invited to the small 8X8 room that was called the director's office. We greeted one another and then gave instructions on tyvex (remember last year some of the director's were selling them to community children to make money for themselves, very sad situation). After we were finished, we walked into several of the classrooms to visit the children. Innocent was the first to walk in and oh my goodness the children were so excited right away. They started yelling, Uncle Innocent, Uncle Innocent! Then Allan (another summer staffer) and I walked in and the kids went wild. As I have been practicing my Nyanja, I spoke a few sentences to them and they all laughed. They were taken off guard that I was able to speak Nyanja and absolutely love it when you try to speak their language. It also sounds funny because their accent is so different, although my Zambians tell me that my pronunciation is quite good. I am very happy to be able to have an extended period of time to learn and practice the language. The sounds are completely different from English.
I was so amazed that each school we went to, there was a similar reaction. You can tell that the children ADORE the discipleship leaders, and I know why. All of them are unflappable! They are full of love, patience, kindness and big smiles. They all are such a joy to be around and I am so very blessed by their presence. There are more Americans than ever this year, but I find myself wanting to spend more time in community with the Zambians. I have so much to learn from them, and they have such beautfiul spirts, always giving the glory to God for everything. I am very encouraged when I spend time with them.
So as we went around to the schools I realized what a special time it is for the kids when they are able to come to camp. Their faces light up when we talk about camp. We travel in blue, volkswagon type vans that are labeled "His Bus". When the children saw us arriving, they all began chanting "his bus, his bus, his bus." When we walked into the classroom, they all began singing camp life songs.
I just cannot tell you how overjoyed I am to be here, to love these kids, to love these people. I am so thankful for God's provision in my life and for the amazing opportunity to experience community with my Zambian brothers and sisters. I have so much more to say, but my time is limited. I hope to be able to write to you soon regarding the first days of Camp! Nikukonda (I love you). Tizaounana Mailo (see you later).
Well, today is the second day of camp and I can honestly say that after being an administrator for two days, I have never given enough thanks and credit to those in full time ministry. It is tough. There are so many people to please, and so many great ideas that work....in theory. Practically those ideas are a nightmare. :) The Lord is definitely growing me and stretching me and I am glad for it.
Last Friday I was able to tag along with two of the discipleship leaders (Innocent and Naomi) to visit three of the community schools that are here for camp this week; Jesus Army, Restoration, Swesta, Ibex Hill, and Bethel. We went out to the schools to distribute tyvex, the paper arm band that all of the children must have on to come to camp life. Attendance at camp is based upon school attendance so that the discipleship leaders can follow up with the kids year round. Though some other children show up around the time of camp because they know it is coming, they are not allowed to come. Camp life is an incentive for school attendance and the discipleship leaders go to each school every day.
When we showed up we were invited to the small 8X8 room that was called the director's office. We greeted one another and then gave instructions on tyvex (remember last year some of the director's were selling them to community children to make money for themselves, very sad situation). After we were finished, we walked into several of the classrooms to visit the children. Innocent was the first to walk in and oh my goodness the children were so excited right away. They started yelling, Uncle Innocent, Uncle Innocent! Then Allan (another summer staffer) and I walked in and the kids went wild. As I have been practicing my Nyanja, I spoke a few sentences to them and they all laughed. They were taken off guard that I was able to speak Nyanja and absolutely love it when you try to speak their language. It also sounds funny because their accent is so different, although my Zambians tell me that my pronunciation is quite good. I am very happy to be able to have an extended period of time to learn and practice the language. The sounds are completely different from English.
I was so amazed that each school we went to, there was a similar reaction. You can tell that the children ADORE the discipleship leaders, and I know why. All of them are unflappable! They are full of love, patience, kindness and big smiles. They all are such a joy to be around and I am so very blessed by their presence. There are more Americans than ever this year, but I find myself wanting to spend more time in community with the Zambians. I have so much to learn from them, and they have such beautfiul spirts, always giving the glory to God for everything. I am very encouraged when I spend time with them.
So as we went around to the schools I realized what a special time it is for the kids when they are able to come to camp. Their faces light up when we talk about camp. We travel in blue, volkswagon type vans that are labeled "His Bus". When the children saw us arriving, they all began chanting "his bus, his bus, his bus." When we walked into the classroom, they all began singing camp life songs.
I just cannot tell you how overjoyed I am to be here, to love these kids, to love these people. I am so thankful for God's provision in my life and for the amazing opportunity to experience community with my Zambian brothers and sisters. I have so much more to say, but my time is limited. I hope to be able to write to you soon regarding the first days of Camp! Nikukonda (I love you). Tizaounana Mailo (see you later).
Thursday, May 31, 2007
Visiting Lifeway Christian School
Greetings my friends! Today has been an extremely long day, and I am exhausted. Yet I couldn't wait to get here tonight and write to you about the amazing day I had yesterday.
Yesterday we visited the Lifeway Christian School. This is a school that Family Legacy started last August for grades 8-12 along with providing them group housing with a house parent. Children in Zambia have to pay money for school beyond grade 7. 39 kids were selected to come and participate in grade 8 at Lifeway. So yesterday, we went to visit them.
Now they are currently on break, even though the other schools in Zambia attend year round. The kids made a special trip to school so that we could see them. With us we brought brand new school books, backpacks, notebooks and pencils. I have video that I wish I could show you, because the kids hooped and hollered over those items! One boy, named Abram, just kept rubbing his head and covering his face over and over again. It was beautiful.
We then were able to go and see the kid's homes. There are three homes, one girl's home and two boys. All of these children were chosen from the poorer community schools to attend Lifeway. All 39 of the kids were sponsored by Americans, so that they would be able to attend school and have full-time housing for free. Most of them are double oprhans, which means they do not have any parents. You would not believe how thankful these children are for the opportunity to attend school, not to mention being removed from their abusive situations.
On the way to the houses, everyone rode in the back of an open bed 18-wheeler. It was great! The men seranaded us with Zambian praise songs, and I was able to sing along with the ones that I knew. I cannot convey to you the beauty of the Zambian's singing and the look of joy that comes across their faces when they worship. It is a moment that I will tuck away to be sure, and enjoy over and over again.
The girls house has one big bedroom with about 10 bunk beds. The houses are very quaint, but kept very clean. There is running water in the house so that they are able to easily cook and clean, which they are taught to do for themselves. Two of the discipleship leaders, Chilufya and Naomi are the house moms. At the boy's houses, they had planted Chinese cabbage and had a plot of land that was available for more planting.
Each of the boys houses has 2-3 rooms, only about 12X10 and contain approximately 4-5 beds. They are practically on top of each other, but I guess boys don't care about that. The children were so excited to have us come to where they live and I had the opportunity to speak with several of them about what they are learning. Their English is getting quite good, and one boy Cephas was telling me that they were exploring Genesis in their Bible classes.
I don't know how many of you have seen my Camp Life video, but if you have....this is for you. The little boy who is crying and singing on the video.....Kelvin is His name. Well, he is quite a few years older now but he is in the school and quite possibly the most precious boy I have ever seen. He is quiet and humble, but so incredibly full of the Holy Spirit that he makes everyone around him joyful. He has the heart of a servant.
The girls were thrilled to have us also. One in particular attended camp life last year and told Susan (Greer's wife) that she was about to be taken by her auntie and uncle who abused her. Susan prayed with her that God would rescue her from her situation and the girl was tormented. However, she was chosen to attend Lifeway, but we did not have the names of the children attending the school so we did not know she was there. Well, she ran up to Susan and said, "Do you remember me?" Well of course Susan did, and the girl was telling us that she thanks God so much for rescuing her from having to live with her abusive auntie and uncle, and how the girls in her home were her family!
My heart overflows in thanksgiving for what God has done in these children. I am thankful to be able to take part in this project and bring the Word to these kids, who need it more than anything. I anticipate when they will grow to be adults and be raised up to be the leaders of their country. I long for the day when they will go on and make many disciples and transform their governments and churches into bodies that glorify Christ.
I have noticed that our Zambian brothers and sisters are much more quick to attribute all of the work to the Lord. For example, when Greer commended Bwalyia (he is the principal) for doing an incredible job with the kids, his response was: "Oh, I did nothing, it was all the work of the Lord." And....he MEANT it. He wasn't just giving lip service, his heart was genuine and sincere. I think that it what I love about these people. Just when i think I've got the humility thing down, my fellow believers show me that I need to be giving much more of the credit in my life to Christ.
It is good to praise the Lord
and make music to your name,
O Most High,
to proclaim your love in the morning
and your faithfulness at night,
to the music of ten-stringed lyre
and the melody of the harp.
For you make me glady by your deeds,
O Lord;
I sing for joy at the works of your hands
How great are your works, Oh Lord.
How profound are your thoughts!
Yesterday we visited the Lifeway Christian School. This is a school that Family Legacy started last August for grades 8-12 along with providing them group housing with a house parent. Children in Zambia have to pay money for school beyond grade 7. 39 kids were selected to come and participate in grade 8 at Lifeway. So yesterday, we went to visit them.
Now they are currently on break, even though the other schools in Zambia attend year round. The kids made a special trip to school so that we could see them. With us we brought brand new school books, backpacks, notebooks and pencils. I have video that I wish I could show you, because the kids hooped and hollered over those items! One boy, named Abram, just kept rubbing his head and covering his face over and over again. It was beautiful.
We then were able to go and see the kid's homes. There are three homes, one girl's home and two boys. All of these children were chosen from the poorer community schools to attend Lifeway. All 39 of the kids were sponsored by Americans, so that they would be able to attend school and have full-time housing for free. Most of them are double oprhans, which means they do not have any parents. You would not believe how thankful these children are for the opportunity to attend school, not to mention being removed from their abusive situations.
On the way to the houses, everyone rode in the back of an open bed 18-wheeler. It was great! The men seranaded us with Zambian praise songs, and I was able to sing along with the ones that I knew. I cannot convey to you the beauty of the Zambian's singing and the look of joy that comes across their faces when they worship. It is a moment that I will tuck away to be sure, and enjoy over and over again.
The girls house has one big bedroom with about 10 bunk beds. The houses are very quaint, but kept very clean. There is running water in the house so that they are able to easily cook and clean, which they are taught to do for themselves. Two of the discipleship leaders, Chilufya and Naomi are the house moms. At the boy's houses, they had planted Chinese cabbage and had a plot of land that was available for more planting.
Each of the boys houses has 2-3 rooms, only about 12X10 and contain approximately 4-5 beds. They are practically on top of each other, but I guess boys don't care about that. The children were so excited to have us come to where they live and I had the opportunity to speak with several of them about what they are learning. Their English is getting quite good, and one boy Cephas was telling me that they were exploring Genesis in their Bible classes.
I don't know how many of you have seen my Camp Life video, but if you have....this is for you. The little boy who is crying and singing on the video.....Kelvin is His name. Well, he is quite a few years older now but he is in the school and quite possibly the most precious boy I have ever seen. He is quiet and humble, but so incredibly full of the Holy Spirit that he makes everyone around him joyful. He has the heart of a servant.
The girls were thrilled to have us also. One in particular attended camp life last year and told Susan (Greer's wife) that she was about to be taken by her auntie and uncle who abused her. Susan prayed with her that God would rescue her from her situation and the girl was tormented. However, she was chosen to attend Lifeway, but we did not have the names of the children attending the school so we did not know she was there. Well, she ran up to Susan and said, "Do you remember me?" Well of course Susan did, and the girl was telling us that she thanks God so much for rescuing her from having to live with her abusive auntie and uncle, and how the girls in her home were her family!
My heart overflows in thanksgiving for what God has done in these children. I am thankful to be able to take part in this project and bring the Word to these kids, who need it more than anything. I anticipate when they will grow to be adults and be raised up to be the leaders of their country. I long for the day when they will go on and make many disciples and transform their governments and churches into bodies that glorify Christ.
I have noticed that our Zambian brothers and sisters are much more quick to attribute all of the work to the Lord. For example, when Greer commended Bwalyia (he is the principal) for doing an incredible job with the kids, his response was: "Oh, I did nothing, it was all the work of the Lord." And....he MEANT it. He wasn't just giving lip service, his heart was genuine and sincere. I think that it what I love about these people. Just when i think I've got the humility thing down, my fellow believers show me that I need to be giving much more of the credit in my life to Christ.
It is good to praise the Lord
and make music to your name,
O Most High,
to proclaim your love in the morning
and your faithfulness at night,
to the music of ten-stringed lyre
and the melody of the harp.
For you make me glady by your deeds,
O Lord;
I sing for joy at the works of your hands
How great are your works, Oh Lord.
How profound are your thoughts!
Tuesday, May 29, 2007
Mwachoma Bwanji
Mwachoma bwanji (good afternoon)! Today I am writing you from Spar, which is the grocery store here in Zambia. As I sit in this cafe, i can hear at least 4 or 5 different languages being spoken. I love that.
So this week has been full of more preparation for the American volunteers which will be arriving on Saturday. A hand full arrived this morning, but were shipped off immediately to their tour of Victoria Falls. When they return they will be rested and cured of jet lag and ready to give their hearts to the orphans!
Every Sunday, we attend church here in Zambia and this week we went to Lifeline Community Church where my favorite Pator Eddies speaks from the pulpit. Unfortunately, he was not here this week and the associate pastor gave the sermon. He kind of lost me halfway through, but his main message really touched me. The premise was that "if you knew what God had put into the person next to you, you would treat them better than you do."
I started to realize that if I just considered this along with how we are called to love each other as Jesus loved us...how much more fruitful and joyful my life would be. That we are called to encourage and support one another, and if we realized what God wanted to do in each person that we encountered, how much fruitful we as a people would be. We would be spurring each other to our fullest potential. There is definitely not enough of that going around. Just a thought.
I love the Zambian church. It is so alive with spirit. There is acapella singing, there is dancing, there is rejoicing and there is praying aloud...alot of it. It is such a beautiful experience to be able to see another culture worship their God. It is a little glimpse of what heaven will be like when a people from every tribe, tongue and nation come before the throne and worship. Nothing could make my heart more happy.
I am hoping that tomorrow is the day that I will be able to go with one of the Zambian discipleship leaders to the schools. I am very excited to see all of the children, and hear all of their singing again. I want to live a day in the life of one of the Zambians, and be able to take part in it.
I just found out that we will not be returning to the INternational School for camp. A new principle has taken over and he will not allow us to come there because we are a Christian organization and he is an atheist. This is very sad, because the ISL is one of the BEST places to host camp life. Instead we retreat to Nakatendi Hall for then entire summer, in the middle of downtown and it is much smaller. Perhaps the Lord has chosen this as a better place to witness. We will see.
I have noticed that Lusaka is becoming a more prominent place to be. The Zambian money (called Kwacha) is getting a better exchange rate these days, and prices are continuing to rise. I hope that this is a good change and will affect the people of Lusaka, and not just the government.
Last night we met a lady who works with a program that tries to get street kids off the street. The numbers of them are increasing every day and there are more street kids here than ever before. OH, if we could only have the Tree of Life Village built now, so that we would have a place to love and house them. There are so many problems here. The community schools are very poor, the teachers who teach there sometimes only have the equivalent of 3rd or 4th grade education. The children are only able to attend school for a few hours a day, even then you can imagine the quality is very poor. The children are continuously moved from extended relative to extended relative, making it difficult to stay in one place, and therefore one school. Or they are removed from school to go and "work." For girls, that means mostly prostitution and for boys, breaking rocks. Please continue praying with me for these children.
Next week we will be teaching them how to be VICTORIOUS in Christ! Mulungu aku dalise muzanga (God bless you my friend). I love you all, and I hope to be writing again soon!
Mwenda mushi, (go well)
So this week has been full of more preparation for the American volunteers which will be arriving on Saturday. A hand full arrived this morning, but were shipped off immediately to their tour of Victoria Falls. When they return they will be rested and cured of jet lag and ready to give their hearts to the orphans!
Every Sunday, we attend church here in Zambia and this week we went to Lifeline Community Church where my favorite Pator Eddies speaks from the pulpit. Unfortunately, he was not here this week and the associate pastor gave the sermon. He kind of lost me halfway through, but his main message really touched me. The premise was that "if you knew what God had put into the person next to you, you would treat them better than you do."
I started to realize that if I just considered this along with how we are called to love each other as Jesus loved us...how much more fruitful and joyful my life would be. That we are called to encourage and support one another, and if we realized what God wanted to do in each person that we encountered, how much fruitful we as a people would be. We would be spurring each other to our fullest potential. There is definitely not enough of that going around. Just a thought.
I love the Zambian church. It is so alive with spirit. There is acapella singing, there is dancing, there is rejoicing and there is praying aloud...alot of it. It is such a beautiful experience to be able to see another culture worship their God. It is a little glimpse of what heaven will be like when a people from every tribe, tongue and nation come before the throne and worship. Nothing could make my heart more happy.
I am hoping that tomorrow is the day that I will be able to go with one of the Zambian discipleship leaders to the schools. I am very excited to see all of the children, and hear all of their singing again. I want to live a day in the life of one of the Zambians, and be able to take part in it.
I just found out that we will not be returning to the INternational School for camp. A new principle has taken over and he will not allow us to come there because we are a Christian organization and he is an atheist. This is very sad, because the ISL is one of the BEST places to host camp life. Instead we retreat to Nakatendi Hall for then entire summer, in the middle of downtown and it is much smaller. Perhaps the Lord has chosen this as a better place to witness. We will see.
I have noticed that Lusaka is becoming a more prominent place to be. The Zambian money (called Kwacha) is getting a better exchange rate these days, and prices are continuing to rise. I hope that this is a good change and will affect the people of Lusaka, and not just the government.
Last night we met a lady who works with a program that tries to get street kids off the street. The numbers of them are increasing every day and there are more street kids here than ever before. OH, if we could only have the Tree of Life Village built now, so that we would have a place to love and house them. There are so many problems here. The community schools are very poor, the teachers who teach there sometimes only have the equivalent of 3rd or 4th grade education. The children are only able to attend school for a few hours a day, even then you can imagine the quality is very poor. The children are continuously moved from extended relative to extended relative, making it difficult to stay in one place, and therefore one school. Or they are removed from school to go and "work." For girls, that means mostly prostitution and for boys, breaking rocks. Please continue praying with me for these children.
Next week we will be teaching them how to be VICTORIOUS in Christ! Mulungu aku dalise muzanga (God bless you my friend). I love you all, and I hope to be writing again soon!
Mwenda mushi, (go well)
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