because He lives...:)

August 7, 2008

Hello Everyone! I hope everyone is doing well! First, I want to give each of you a big THANK YOU for your prayers and emails that you’ve sent. I even arrived to some cards and two packages in Nairobi! It really has meant so much to me to hear from all of you…even those who I have never actually met in person. I hope you can be as encouraged as I am that your prayers are being answered in a big way. I’m adjusting to all of the differences here in Kenya and the Lord is comforting me more than I ever imagined.

I’m beginning to get to know the children – trying to remember 87 children by name is a task! I’m blessed to be around some of the sweetest 87 children I’ve ever met though so they’ve been gracious in reminding me when I need a little help. I’m growing closer to the house mother more and more as she makes sure I’m eating, I’m comfortable, and I’m safe everyday. I’m also getting blessed by my church services on Sunday as I get to know the congregation a little more each Sunday. They do their best to translate just about everything in English – even a few English songs thrown in there! We sang “Because He Lives” last week and as many times as I have heard that hymn growing up, it was especially meaningful that day. In one little chorus, what I’ve learned over the past 3 weeks was summed up. I’ve been here long enough to realize it’s different and it isn’t easy, but it’s worth it. When little Faith, the three-year old I’ve attached myself to, falls asleep on my shoulder and hugs my neck like she’s known me her whole three years…I wouldn’t trade the cold showers for the world! Or when Jamlick asks if he can have a picture of me to keep while I’m in Nairobi just for the weekend…yep, it’s all worth it. Our God has been more faithful than I can put into words as He has been my comfort, protector, healer, provider, friend….and much more!

Yesterday, I left Tumaini to come to Nairobi for a long weekend and I was able to catch a ride in with two of the SIM leaders. They were bringing up three new friends to live with me at Tumaini!! As if that wasn’t enough of a blessing, all three of them sure are from North Carolina! And then on top of that, we found out in conversation that we all three went to UNC! Who knew I would come half way around the world just to live with more Tarheels? Needless to say, these new friends are a blessing and one more reason to praise the Lord!

I’ll be praying for you as you pray for me! Thank you for lifting me up in prayer over the last month so often that I’ve learned…

“Because He lives, I can face tomorrow. Because He lives, all fear gone. Because I know He holds the future and life is worth the living just because He lives.”

Prayer Requests:

That I continue to build relationships

Bible Lesson time on Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday nights

Health and safety for all here at Tumaini

Reasons to praise God:

New friends at Tumaini

Health and safety thus far

Tumaini’s 6^th Anniversary