I thank the Lord that I haven't been too homesick. Being in Nairobi satisfied my craving for the comforts of home. We were in a house with plumbing, went to the beach, got to eat really nice things (like tacos and guacamole!) and experienced wonderful San Diego like weather. Lately, I have been missing everyone, though. Especially my new niece whose snugly infant time I am missing. Fortunately I get lots of emails and pictures from home which helps.
I am continuing to learn and trust the sovereignty of God. He has given me a peace that my life is in His hands. Whatever may come my way, it's all for a reason. I am learning to be satisfied with where I am and not worry about the future. As long as I am following Him today, He'll work everything out. Two things have been really special to me lately: Oswald Chambers “My Utmost for His Highest” and the book of Psalms. I had “My Utmost for His Highest” for a long time, but I never read it. Suzy had a spare copy so I have been reading that daily. It is really good! He really challenges you to take your relationship with God very seriously and urges you to abandon all to serve Him. Also, I have been reading a Psalm everyday for a while now, but lately, I have found much comfort in them. I recommend anyone who is looking to shake up their devotions (or start doing them everyday) use both books. The Psalms provide a lot of comfort, but they have also taught me so much about God's character. Just wanted to share what has been helpful to me recently.
We have officially entered into the hot season. It is really Africa hot here. Last night I couldn't sleep because I was so hot. Even just lying down, I sweat. The hard part is there is no escape from the heat. We have no air conditioning...anywhere. I really look forward to my shower every evening. The two most refreshing things in Sudan are clean feet and cold water. Both accomplished in the shower!
Things in Tonj have been quiet over the last few days. No additional gunfire, praise the Lord. We have still been hearing of tension between Tonj and Chuibet. Sabet doesn't think it is a coincidence that this is happening close to the election. I don't know what the connection is, but I am afraid it's a sign of what is to come. For sure, Suzy, the kids and I will be leaving before the elections. Our flight to Nairobi is scheduled for April 9th. Right now, we don't have a flight scheduled to return. Of course we are coming back, but we will wait for it to be safe. Hopefully we won't have to be gone for more than one month.
Even though there is fighting between the tribes, we are safe in the compound. People aren't upset with us and they know we are here to help them. Sabet is very in touch with what is going on here and will get us out if needed. He'll be staying here during the elections along with some of the other staff. It's weird to be going to Nairobi again after being back for only seven weeks, but I know God has a plan for us there. I'm sure there is plenty of ministry work that can be done there.
I am so happy that we have a cook. I had just accepted the fact that I would be in the kitchen for the whole year. God is so good. I had even stopped praying to be out of the kitchen because I knew God must have wanted me there. I'm so glad the Holy Spirit intercedes for us and knew the desires of my heart. Jane is doing very well. It has been so nice to give her some instruction and leave the meals in her hands. I really enjoyed my time in Nairobi, helping Suzy and Sabet administratively. That is what I truly like to do. I now feel free to help them in ways I am more naturally gifted in.
The clinic has been busy, but is going really well. They continue to treat on average 100 people per day. Recently we have received some vaccinations so we have been able to vaccinate many children as they come to the clinic for treatment. I have resumed helping with triage for an hour in the morning. Occasionally I go there in the evening when there is a birth or emergency. I can't do much, but I am happy to hold a flashlight or do anything I can to help. Our nurses and doctors do a wonderful job at helping this community. They are on call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and work tirelessly to save lives.
The pastors school is in it's third term. They will be finishing up in the next few weeks. Then they will be on a break for about two months. They were scheduled for a one month break, but due to the election, their fourth term has been delayed. The pastors are fun to have around and are so eager to learn the Bible.
Things you can be praying for:
1. Long term volunteers – short term volunteers are great, but Sabet and Suzy can delegate much more work to someone who is here longer. Plus, being here longer allows someone to really get to know the people and dive into the ministry.
2. That the temperature will decrease! I know it's silly, but being so hot all the time zaps my energy. I can't wait until the rainy season comes.
3. Peace – it's completely possible for the elections to go smoothly. The culture tends to be a violent one. They need to know God and have their hearts transformed.
4. We need a someone skilled in construction and plumbing to finish the new clinic. Our last guy went on a break to Uganda and didn't come back.
For the last three months, I have met my support requirements. Thank you everyone for your donations and prayers. I know I say this a lot, but I couldn't do this without you. I am able to serve God here because you have sent me. If anyone is wanting to donate, here is how you can do it:
1. Go to www.indeedandtruth.org. Click on donate and you'll see a my name listed and can designate a donation to me.
2. Mail a check to: In Deed and Truth Ministries, PO Box 51253, Colorado Springs, CO 80949 Please don’t forget to write my name on the memo line. Donations are tax deductible.
I hope you all are doing well. If you want to email me, you can do so at spacie19@hotmail.com.
God Bless!
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