Thursday, July 10

July 10, 2008

TUMAINI, Timothy McConnell

This morning we visited a clinic supported by Rev. Tolley, who came to speak to Meadows in February when we had a mission dinner to support the trip. It was a joy to see the dreams and promises of a new clinic dedicated to underprivileged children coming to fruition. While we were there, we found out that just this morning, before we arrived, the government official in charge had come by to deliver a long awaited letter certifying the clinic for operation! What a divine coincidence that we were there to celebrate this new beginning with Eve and her friends.

After that we traveled to a large hospital that exists by cooperation between PCEA (Pres. Ch. East Africa) and PCUSA called Tumutumu Hospital. The conditions were difficult, although so much better than what is often expected in Africa, and the visit brought tears to our eyes and deep emotions. God is truly given joy when any of the least of these are comforted in their illness.

Next to Karatima market, which our hosts attest is the second largest open air market in Africa. We moved through there very quickly! No shopping yet!

VBS is going great, and today was the fourth day of hosting over one hundred children between two different sessions. We all cherish this time, because we get to see the children smile, we get to hear them sing songs of worship, we get to hear them laugh at silly skits and games, and we truly feel that God has given us a privilege with this opportunity to bring joy to children who have known such grief.

So God has continued to show us little miracles each day that keep us inspired, and keep us laughing. We laughed yesterday that I had put Huruma Home (a different orphanage run by the same administration) on the prayer calendar for that day long before anyone knew that we would be there that very day! But today I regret asking you to pray about sickness among us, because sure enough, one of the team was quite sick this morning--but your prayers must also have helped as she now feels fine.

What really counts is the story of the faith in Jesus Christ found among these children, and bursting forth in their every word and deed. It is hard to be so far from home, but it is so amazing to give these precious little ones a taste of the love and happiness we know every day back home.

Thank you for your prayers! Keep it up, as we can feel your prayers keeping us going.

PS -- a special "hello" to Ellie, Jack, and Peter. Hi! We love you dearly and miss you every day, but we share your love with these dear kids who are just like you but without Moms and Dads, and we'll be home soon. So sorry email is still not working, but hopefully it will soon!