TJ and I are going to be in the Kibera slums for 3 days. Sure, this is something we both really felt like we needed to experience, but I must tell you, this is the first time I have put all my trust and faith in Him.
So what changed morning? Well, reality has finally set in. Kibera is the largest slum in Kenya. There are 1.2 million people living in the slums. Rarely is there running water, I’m assuming there’s no electricity and shall I mention it’s VERY dangerous! (Not exactly what any parent wants to hear.) So I’ve been told not wear jewelry, wear closed toed shoes so the worms won’t get into our toe nails, and to basically look as if you were a poor American.
So what are my emotions at this point? I’m terrified, nervous, anxious, excited, and through all this, just ready to see God work through myself. This next month isn’t going to be a vacation; it’s going to be a challenge. This week I have been constantly reminding myself of the passage in Philippians 4:11-13 it says, “I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or want. I can do everything through Him who gives me strength.”
I’ll admit, I love having the wireless internet at home, I enjoy taking a nice hot shower in the morning and blow drying my hair, and I love going to a cold refrigerator to get a glass of Vickee’s sweet tea. But I know in Africa it’s not going to be anything like this. So in any and every situation I must learn to be content.
Please keep me in your thought and prayer please. Especially when we’re “slummin’ it.”
Here’s the three orphanages we’ll be staying at...
In Kibera:June 12-14
In Nakuru:June 14-19, July 4-12
In Kakamega:June 20-July 4
"Blessed is the man who trusts in the Lord, whose confidence is in Him." Jeremiah 17:7
3 comments:
"Be Strong and of Good Courage, Do Not Fear nor be Afraid of them; for the Lord your God, He is the One who goes with You. He will Never leave you nor forsake you." Deuteronomy 31:6
I feel like a mom or something, cause ive been worried sick about you and tj. i hate not knowing if you are okay! i guess i will just have to wait for a new blog and that will be my sign.
I felt this verse was very fitting for you the first three days of your trip in africa. Just keep this in your mind and you will have no worries for God is with you always. I continue to pray for you always.
I love you.
kesh
Dad and I are hoping you and TJ made it safely to Kenya. We are very proud of the work you are both doing. Please be safe. Our thoughts and prayers are with you constantly. Even though it may look like God has forgotten these children, He has blessed the them by sending you to share in their lives. We love you! Mom and Dad
kylee .. (and Teej) wow! i finally got on here to read your blog..i feel like i've been neglecting you guys! everything i read on here sounds just amazing; i'm so proud of you two it just brought tears to my eyes! kylee i miss you and i can't wait till you're back in the sunday school class..the kids miss you too! i told them that next week i'm bringing a globe to show them where you and tj are at and i'm going to print off your blog and read part of it to them..they were excited! keeping you guys in my prayers..can't WAIT to see you 2 again..love you. kirsten
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