Leap of Faith

Another early morning...breakfast, then up the hill with a lot of heavy breathing and screaming quads in this case. Our altitude is higher than Denver and we're still adjusting. It could be the only quiet time experience of our day other than the time we spend with our LORD. Our team loves to laugh and we have found plenty of things to laugh about. I love it that we can be transparent with each other yet find the humor. Such a love for each other is growing as only God can create in His family.

Paul arranges our days with the CURE hospital staff daily. Through his efforts, each of us has been able to plug into different and unique experiences for the past two days. Has anyone mentioned how thankful we are for “Pastor” Paul – a true shepherd. He has drawn all of us out of our comfort zones through thought provoking questions and assignments constructed to enable us to become more real.

Daniel, Greg, DJ, Michael, and Paul were in the warehouse this morning to inventory once again, an assignment which has been much appreciated by the overseer, Naomi, and the CURE Hospital staff in general. Knowing the “haves” and “have nots” in the warehouse will enable them to know how to better plan for their patients and continue to perform with the skill and excellence which they have come to be respected.

Daniel and Greg spun off after lunch to share their IT knowledge in the business office. They have begun the long process of “cleaning up” the computers there which have become really slow because of viruses and other evils picked up on the internet. What a respect I have for their ability in this area – so alien to many but so natural and second nature to them. They have no idea what kind of respect that commands in most of us.

Michael spent his afternoon with one of the hospital ministers. He actually was given the opportunity to speak to the families in the ward and share his insight into the blessing of community and relationship that he has witnessed in the Kenyan culture so far. He did an amazing job for someone who claims a fear of public speaking.

DJ shared his admin knowledge and know-how with the business office before also being drafted by the ministry team to share his testimony in the ward. They all had a laugh about his name – apparently knowing our slang for “disc jockey” - but ended up taking him very seriously for his testimony of a changed life and secure walk with his Lord Jesus.

Elaine, Hannah, and Kristen were in the Play Room this morning. Many of the children waiting for theater (surgery) come there to be distracted from their hunger pains. They are ordered NPO – nothing per oral – before surgery. Other children have already had surgery and just need “kid stuff” to keep them from being totally bored and distracted from the healing process. We read a book with Francesca, who oversees the Play Room. She interpreted our story of Jonah into Swahili. Her version was about 3 times as long and seemed a lot more interesting than what I was reading!! We all wished we could have experienced it. The kids were fascinated with her storytelling. Afterwards we all made tambourines for the ward to praise the Lord - “Bwana Asifiwe” in their language.

Elaine and Kristen took over for the guys in the warehouse in the afternoon and Hannah had another amazing experience in the operating room. Hannah told us she wanted to look for the little guy she was working with in the Play Room after lunch. He was to be taken to surgery after lunch. The Lord pressed on her heart during the surgery to hold the hand of the child on the operating table. After being given permission to hold this child's hand during the surgery – she was totally shocked and blessed to discover it was the little boy she wanted to “look for.” His face had been partially draped for the surgery.

Beth and Leah were able to join Dr. Bob in clinic at the Kijabe Hospital in the morning. Their experience has been really useful and in demand for both CURE Hospital and Kijabe Hospital. But today was a learning day for them with Bob, who loves to teach. They loved it. After lunch they were able to observe a spinal surgery.

We are so thankful for the house staff: Anne, Grace, Keziah, Samuel, and Steven. They have fed us so well and washed all of our clothes! We will all be coming home a little rounder and certainly spoiled! Bob and Julie spoiled us tonight with home made tortilla chips, which Julie is perfecting (she's there!). They also joined us for dinner. We had great fun sitting around the table, swapping stories, and (of course) laughing. The Mendonsa family's hospitality has been such a blessing to our team. They have shared their hearts with us. God is doing His work through them for the Kenyan people they have come to serve but has also been faithful to stretch and grow them. He is so apparent in their lives! We have also loved their sense of humor and appreciation of the lighter side of life here.

Things to pray for:
Pray for rain as, right now, the entire area we are in is without running water. It is most likely just being rationed, but is a marker on how much Kenya needs God to provide rain for them. Each team member has voiced an area in which the Lord is dealing with them personally. Please join us in praying that God will be victorious in these areas. Please continue to pray for safety & health. Pray for open hearts to serve unselfishly – using our hands and our voices as the Lord leads, seeing through the Lord's eyes, hearing with His ears and loving with His heart. Pray also for the Mendonsa family – for continued strength & confidence to walk the path set out for them. Pray also for an affirmation of their ministry. Pray for assurance from the Lord. We love this family dearly (with a deep, abiding love) and want them to walk in the fulness of all Christ has for them. We are excited to see what He's doing in our beloved.

-Elaine

That Just Happened

Today was an early morning compared to our previous days. All of us were ready to go and out the door at 7:45 for our first day in the hospitals!! We made it in time for morning devotionals at the CURE Clinic. We shared in singing worship songs, praying and studying the Word with the CURE staff. After devo time, the group as a whole group joined up for some presentations.

The first presentation covered a more in depth history and information about the medical ministry of CURE. Then we heard from Earnest who is one of the members of the Spiritual ministry team. He explained their multifaceted approach to meeting the spiritual and emotional needs of the children and their families. Their ministry goes from the hospital ward all the way out to surrounding villages. It is in the villages that they join forces with pastors there to share the gospel and disciple new believers. They also introduce children with physical needs in these villages to the ministry CURE offers.

Then we were able to take part in a traditional Chai tea break...Kenyan style... with two scoops of sugar. Yumm. Now that we had our sugar fix we divided into groups and each sent on our way for the remainder of the day.

Leah and Beth were able to experience Kijabe Hospital where they used their experience in oncology and palliative care (end of life care) to consult with and share knowledge with the nurses there. Elaine and Kristen spent time in both the recovery area and operating room of the CURE hospital. Having never worked in these areas, both were blessed to watch and learn from the nurses in this area. Ginny, a physical therapist, with Hannah as her assistant were able to share ideas, answer questions and teach those from both the CURE hospital and the Kijabe Hospital. Michael, Greg, Daniel and D.J. began the morning in the warehouse starting the process of inventory on medical supplies that had been donated to CURE, including those donations we were able to bring from The Village. They were then able to join me (Kristen) and Elaine in the Theatre (Kenyan term for the operating room.) So all six of us were able to watch Dr. Mendonsa, a.k.a. “Smooth Operator” work his magic and perform a below-the-knee amputation. This surgery would enable this child to be fitted with a prosthetic leg and be able to walk again. The guys couldn't stop talking about what they had witnessed the rest of the day. Man Card = Earned!

After lunch we split up again. Leah and Beth to Kijabe Hospital and the rest of us to CURE. At CURE we all went to the warehouse to continue to inventory supplies. 2,600 sutures and one more chai break later, we called it a day and headed back to the house.

The day was topped off with a sweet time as a group. Kristen and Elaine shared their testimonies and then we were able to share encouragement for each of them. It was wonderful to take time to edify each other, and we look forward to being able to do this each night for the remainder of the week for all other team members!

Things to pray for:

Sensitivity to God's leading in where He desires us to spend our time within the CURE hospital. There are multiple opportunities to serve the staff, the children, as well as their families. We desire to be open and obedient to where He wants to use us as we go into our second day in the hospitals. Please also pray for Previns, the young man (probably 10) who had his leg amputated. While this was a needed procedure and will help with both the quality of life and the social stigma attached to his issue, there is much healing and adjustment ahead. Please also pray for out team leader, Paul. This is an amazing man of God, without whom this trip simply wouldn't be the same. Yes we trust God to use anyone, but he chose Paul in his infinite wisdom. Pray for Paul's own wisdom and guidance in being a liaison while dealing with a radically different culture. Thank you!

-Kristen

Sheboygan

Kenyans really know how to Sabbath well, as Sundays are reserved solely for church.

The morning started off with warm milk and monkeys in the back yard. Then we left around 8:30am to head to the small village of Eburru, in which we endured an hour and fifteen minute drive on the bumpiest, rockiest road in order to worship with them. Upon arriving in the village, we were immediately noticed as mzungus tend to stand out pretty well here. We were welcomed by a sea of children who, after a short period of confused timidity, lowered their walls and loved us well.

A Kenyan worship service knows no time. The congregation was led by a series of songs, dances, and prayers in which many women and children were invited to participate. Everyone danced without reservation, without inhibition, and without any fear of what others might think of their worship styles. Needless to say it was an incredibly joyous worship service.

Kenya has 42 tribes, in which 7 are represented in the Eburru church. Today happened to be the day where all of the tribes were individually recognized and appreciated, as the emphasis during service was on unity. And yet, as we are obviously different than the tribes, we are one body, serving one purpose, worshipping one God.

Paul was allowed the privilege to deliver the message today, with an interpreter at his side to translate (into Swahili) for the other members. After struggling a little bit in preparation for this message, Paul informed us that he was continually led back to Ephesians, and what book was the church currently studying? You guessed it, Ephesians. Again, God in His infinite wisdom...

Afterwards, the tribes prepared traditional dishes to share with everyone to celebrate the unity within the church. We partook in traditional goat fat, which looked and tasted similar to wet dog food with sand mixed in, potatoes, and butter sandwiches. What is a butter sandwich? It's butter, between two slices of bread. This was, by far, the most delicious thing at the festival.

After the celebration, we had some more time to love on and play with the children of the village. The kids got a huge kick out of us taking their picture and then turning the camera around so that they could see themselves. Having 30 kids pile on top of you, braid your hair, and irritate your sunburn was incredibly refreshing.

Pastor Steven then invited us back to his house for a second lunch. They went all out for us with rice, potatoes, beef stew, green beans, and carrots. This meal was much better than the butter sandwiches.

We then headed back to Kijabe with full stomachs on a long, bumpy, rocky trail. And after an hour of being home, it was time to eat again. The cooks prepared incredible curry chicken with rice and vegetables – our 3^rd meal in 4 hours. As you can tell, our blessings have been numerous on this trip.

Things to pray for:

Tomorrow will be our first full day in the CURE hospital. Please pray for each of us to be as patient and flexible as possible, as plans tend to change continuously here in Kenya. Most of us have Type-A personalities, so perpetually changing schedules have the possibility of hurting our ministry here at the hospital.

-DJ (proofed by Leah)

Happy Birthday Kaden!

Happy Birthday Kaden! I love you - from Aunt Ginny

They Got The Zebrahs, Only In Kenya

Blog day five.

Today was our off day. The Kenyans have a very different work ethic than ours. They take their weekend very seriously. Ergo, the hospital was closed, and thus we got a free day. We got this chance to spend some relaxing time with the Mendonsas.

We started today off with a hearty breakfast courtesy of “Team Breakfast Club” (Beth, Leah, Michael, D.J.) consisting of fried eggs, banana bread, english muffins, sausage, and local Kenyan coffee. Michael got a chance to teach Leah how to flip a fried egg. Now Michael is convinced that she is better than him.

We all hopped in the vans with the Mendonsas to head to Crescent Island, a sanctuary farm. The land normally is an island but due to the drought, was a peninsula. The park was run by a British couple and contained zebras, wildebeests, water buffalo, gazelles, horses, hippos, sheep, and giraffes. The Mendonsas have been to this park on many occasions, so we refused the tour guide as Bob Mendonsa would lead us. We saw our fair share of Zebras and were thrilled by them. As we spotted a small herd of giraffes about a mile off, Bob gave us instructions on how to surround the group so we could get close to them. We began to spread out and flank them. It was a blast. It was incredible to see this picture-perfect backdrop with the mountains and the lakes with the beautiful animals in the foreground. They also told us how timid the wildebeests are, as Will and Emily (the Mendonsa kids) ran with full confidence towards the beasts. Later we got a shot (above) of Leah doing the same. We later had lunch and shared some new experiences with the Mendonsas. A few of the team members got a chance to have lamb for the first time.

It was so rewarding just to spend time with the Mendonsas and minister to them just by hanging out with them. Again, the power of presence here in Kenya. Please pray for them as it is easy for those who leave their home to get moved to the back burner of the brain. They are doing amazing work here and deeply desire your prayer and your words. We thank Jesus for this incredible family.

Going to and from the safari adventure, we had a great time bonding on the two hours we spent in the van together. There was lots of laughter and lots of growth as we got to know each other a little better. God has been faithful in constantly increasing the unity of this team to accomplish His work here in Kenya (and back home later on). This in turn spurred on deeper conversations and convictions tonight and is drawing us deeper into the Lord and unifying us with Him.

After we got back we got to spend some more OKSAT (see previous post) till we had dinner at 6:30p. We all had dinner at our guest house with The Mendonsas and three guests (with Lost Orphans International) that are staying with them also from the DFW metro area.

We finished off the evening off with some quality time including praying for Paul who is one of the preachers for tomorrow at church. We crave your prayers for this as well as he seeks to bring the message God has given him to share with the Kenyans. It's always a crazy day in church when the Mzungu (white people) show up. It'll be an all day event, and we'll most likely be asked to talk and may even have to sing a song or something for them. Fun times.

To be continued...

-Greg (proofed by Michael then by Daniel then again by Greg)

Comfort The Children

The team was deeply impacted by the ministry of Comfort the Children yesterday. Way more than could fit in a single blog post (let alone a daily summary). So we want to tell you a little more about the ministry and some experiences we had there.

When a child is born with a deformity (either physical or mental), the family wants nothing to do with him. The father will try and get rid of the child, but if the mother refuses, he will often leave the family (and be accepted for this). Great shame is brought upon the mother of a special needs child. Even to the point that those who associate with these children or help take care of them are counted as nothing by friends and family. This is why the mothers making eye contact and having the confidence to address us yesterday was such a big deal.

Jeremiah, the man in charge, has an amazing passion for these kids and mothers. (Hello James 1:27) The mothers bring their kids to CTC and work in their shop, learning how to make bags. This both helps supplement costs for CTC and teaches the mothers a trade and helps dignify them (in the eyes of the culture).

We had range of functionality with the children. The teachers told us stories about the growth in functionality of some of the children which was encouraging. Several of us worked with very low functioning kids and realized the higher functioning ones were once there. This points back to Paul's post on Thursday about God's with-ness and the power of presence. It is amazing how that physical touch, the loving of God's creation, can build up a child. Even though I say child, the children were as old as 21. They certainly didn't look it. We thought the teachers misunderstood us when we were asking the children's age.

Even in the short time we spent with them, we could see response and growth (with complete strangers!) This definitely stretched the team with everything from dealing with snotty kids and losing personal bubbles to praying desperately how to connect with a child who might not understand you even if you spoke Swahili. It was an emotionally trying and beautiful time. One moment being when Ginny was trying to fix a splint for one of the kids (who constantly hid his arm from us, feeling the shame of it). Once he realized she was trying to help, he reached over to grab his own arm to help her strap it on despite the discomfort it caused. Even though this was uncomfortable, he was willing to go through it because he already loved her and felt the love of Christ in her. This was a heart breaking moment for those experiencing it. And it is only one of at least 16 stories going on at the same time.

Please pray for this ministry. They deeply love the Lord and his work. Pray for more places to sell their bags to generate income for the ministry. Pray for more workers and volunteers to pour into these children. Pray for the continued growth of these children. Pray for wisdom and vision for Jeremiah. Pray that the mothers and children find their identity in Christ and not in this culture. Pray for the culture itself that the hearts of these people may change and see the beauty of Christ in ALL his people. Amen!

-Daniel

Save a Tree, Eat a Goat

We started off day four with a wonderful breakfast made by “Team A” (Elaine, Paul, and Kristen). Then we experienced our first OKSAT (Obligatory Kenya Screw Around Time) while we waited on our transportation into Maai Mahiu. We were told to be ready by 1030, however our transportation did not show up till about 1130. During our first OKSAT, Kristen kept us busy with Africa Trivia cards. Pretty much D.J. and Elaine kicked everyone's butts.

When our transportation arrived, to our surprise, it was the Cure Ambulance! Long story short, we turned the ambulance into a four-wheeling, off-roading, monster. We headed down the mountain to Maai Mahiu to Comfort the Children Ministry (www.ctcinternational.org). This is a ministry run by an amazing man named Jeremiah. The ministry reaches out to disabled children and their mothers in a community that rejects and shuns them. We learned that many times these children are killed or neglected while their mother's are shunned or abused. At this ministry, the children come during the day to a school where they are loved and taught, while their mothers sew bags that are sold in order to raise profits to keep the facility open. We were blessed to be able to play with these children.

God taught us many things like how just being physically present can bring a child and their mother a sense of peace and strength. These children and women have overcome many obstacles and will continue to run into obstacles during their lives. When we met the mothers, the told us their name and spoke English. Jeremiah said this would not have happened two months ago. Growth is happening here! While we were there we colored, danced, sang and just held the children. We were able to discuss with their teachers how some of these children have overcome obstacles that we cannot even imagine with just a little love and attention. It is amazing to be able to see how God is working throughout the nations!

After we visited Comfort the Children, we had our first real authentic Kenyan meal, nyama choma (which is roasted goat meat with a side of corn flour type bread). When we arrived back at our “home,” we rested, ate dinner and watched a beautiful sunset over the mountains. We had an awesome group time and discussed how God blessed each and everyone of us through our time at Comfort the Children. We also experienced a Little Susan Boyle to appease our fearless leader Paul. Then Mendonsas invited us to our house where we celebrated Michael's 30^th Birthday! We enjoyed fellowshipping with them. It was a fun day full of adventure. And we have many days still yet to experience.

Bwana Asifiwe (Praise the Lord)!

-Beth (Edited by Daniel)

Day Tree

God is good! We arrived in Kijabe today, from Nairobi, with a few stops along the way. We took in the beautiful Great Rift Valley, learned some important lessons on bartering for goods (like “be sure to slash the offered price in half”), and saw baboons on the side of the road!

Our facilities are amazing, and the staff here is a huge blessing. We toured the hospital and got a feel for our surroundings here. We also spent some time with the Mendonsas. The entire team (all 11 of us) squeezed into Julie's car and went to watch Will's soccer game. It was a great “team bonding” experience, as we went up the trail together to his school.

We continue to bond well as a team. Beth has started a quote book of the funny things we have each said during moments of jet lag. Yes, I am sure some will be shared on this blog.

Tonight we discussed the blessing of God's “with-ness” as we strive to be a witness here. We remembered the Great Commandment—to go and make disciples—as being coupled with Jesus' promise that He will always be with us. Pray that we experience His presence in a powerful way as we minister to the people of Kenya!

Blessing,
~Paul

We've made it!

Hey everybody, thanks for praying for a safe flight! We're finally in Africa and at a hotel for the night. Everyone is safe and excited to see what the Lord is going to do in us and through us these next couple of weeks.

Unto Him be all the glory!

Let's do this!

http://flightaware.com/live/flight/BAW192

Kenya trip info video

Prayer Itinerary

While we plan to post daily updates, we wanted you all to have an upfront glance at our trip itinerary, along with some ways to pray. Our activities in Kenya are subject to change, so please pray that we would have open and willing hearts before we head out!

September 22 - 23

Please pray for safe travel, for our baggage to show up, and for no issues at customs:

· BA 192: Dallas to London; Depart on 22 Sept at 5:35p; Arrive at 8:40a

· BA 65: London to Nairobi; Depart on 23 Sept at 10:20a; Arrive at 8:55p

Pray we have a good night’s rest in Nairobi and wake up feeling rested!

September 24

Day One in Kijabe (Thursday) will consist of resting, enjoying time with the Mendonsa family, and touring the area. The evening will include planning for the next day.

Pray for the Mendonsa family (Bob, Julie, Emily, and Will), that we would bring refreshment and encouragement! They now live full time in Kenya, serving with CURE.

September 25

Day Two (Friday) will be hospital orientation and ward fellowship (interacting with patients and their families). We will play with kids and share our stories.

Pray for our Kenyan hosts. They have worked so hard to prepare for our arrival. Ask that we would be a blessing to them—that we would be humble servants.

September 26

Day Three (Saturday) starts the weekend, when activities will be light. We can spend some of that day just looking around the nearby area. Also, we may go hiking.

Pray for our team health and unity. Ask that we would adapt to the Kenyan pace of life.

September 27

Day Four (Sunday) will be church. It will take up the morning into the afternoon. Also, that evening we will meet as a team to prepare for a week of activity in the hospital.

Pray for the Church in Kenya. Ask the Lord to bless His word as it is preached.

September 28 – October 2

Days Five thru Nine (Monday – Friday) will include us splitting into smaller teams. Four of the nurses (Beth, Leah, Elaine, and Kristen) will be serving in various medical environments, but mostly observing and partnering with CURE nurses to prepare for PALS testing in October. Ginny and Hannah will be serving in the ward, with Ginny leading out on training in PT work. The rest of us guys will be doing ward fellowship and serving in the business office. Greg and Daniel will do some IT training. We will all need to be prepared to use our VBS activities during “free time” around the hospital.

Pray for the families that we will be ministering to, in a variety of ways. Pray that they would enjoy a relationship with Jesus Christ, as we share the good news. Ask that they would experience God’s love, to overcome any obstacles or shame that would keep patients or their families from fully receiving the help available through CURE.

Also, please pray for the staff at the CURE hospital and neighboring Kijabe Hospital. Ask that God would connect us in special ways, as we serve alongside each other.

October 3

Day Ten (Saturday) is recreation day in Nairobi. Bob and Julie will be taking us!

Pray for safe travels and a sweet time of fellowship. Begin praying for our trip home.

October 4-5

Day Eleven (Sunday) will be church in the Lunga Lunga slums. Then, we will head to the Maasai market for last minute shopping. Then, off to the airport!

Then, here is our return trip home, again for family to keep tabs with us:

· BA 64: Nairobi to London; Depart on 4 Oct at 11:10p; Arrive at 5:55a

· BA 193: London to Dallas; Depart on 5 Oct at 11:40a; Arrive at 3:40p

Please pray for our time reconnecting with family and friends here. Though it is a two week trip, our worldviews will be impacted greatly by this trip. Ask that we would have opportunities to share our stories and that we would struggle well upon our return.

Continue to pray for the amazing ministry of CURE, as they impact lives around the globe. Ask that God would bless their work in Kenya and beyond.

C.D.I.