(Saturday and Sunday postings were both done this evening because internet service just regained)
Today was a long, hard day. Most of it was spent on the road, 4 hours of which was a bone shaking, teeth clacking, brain rattling drive. It was all worth it because we got to enjoy two hours of worship with our friends in Gunchire. We couldn’t understand a single word that came out of their mouths but we understood every word that poured forth from their heart. When we stood side by side worship and received communion, our common belief in Jesus as Savior and Lord was cemented. Back home, a two worship time would have felt like forever, here it went by in a flash.
Melissa had a great meeting with the Mayor of Gunchire and the head of the Women’s Ministry last Friday afternoon. Conversations are progressing on the library that will be constructed with your birthday gift to Jesus. We are excited to hear that land has been reserved for the library in the center of town and on the path most students take on their way to school. A dialogue has started with a local organization that can help stock and maintain the library.
The coordinator of the Women’s Ministry happily reported that more and more women are claiming ownership over their bodies and not practicing the self mutilating tribal customs of their clans. Melissa has also planted a seed that may lead to us teaching them the art of canning. Much of the harvest from their crops spoils because their means of preservation is little. We hope they will embrace the canning concept and it will spread across the whole nation. You talk about making an impact!
The women’s and pastor’s training resumes tomorrow in Addis, Monday January 31, with a different group of pastor’s and their wives. We are praying that the Holy Spirit will again move in powerful ways for the 2 ½ day event. Every single one of us are physically exhausted but we are spiritually super charged. This trip has reminded me of a very important formula, work hard, prepare well and then depend on God for the rest. The depending on God part is what has enabled us to keep going when we didn’t think we could move another step. It is has also given us incredible energy and clarity of thought just when we needed it. Praise be to God!
We have slept in four different beds in four nights so though we are walking on air because of our great experience, we will all be ready to see the front door of our own homes and the smiling faces of our families on Thursday afternoon.
I woke up this morning at four to pray for the Saturday night celebration and paused to do the same at the appropriate hour for the Sunday morning celebrations. Please keep praying for us even as we pray for you.
Peace,
Rick
