KENYA, AFRICA
Jambo (pronounced - J-ah-am- bo and means greetings),
Although not part of my A/G mission, I thought you would enjoy experiencing what God is doing in another area in the world.
Just when I thought I was taking a quick break and getaway, tables turned and I got to experience missionary life in Kenya, Africa! On September 13th, I embarked for what I thought was going to be a few days on safari and alone time with the Lord to sort out my next year's agenda in Egypt.
A missionary friend of mine in Kenya invited me to come, spend time, and experience God's animal kingdom. By the time I arrived, there was a schedule change and my friend was asked to cover a teaching position for a colleague who was being called to America.
As usual, God orders our steps and I was able to witness field work in another third world country (as well as go on safari). But, mostly God showed me just how alive He is!
KENYA THE COUNTRY:
There is no mistaking God's creation when you catch sight of the luscious green country; noble mountains and the panoramic Rift Valley; abundance and varieties of flowers, plants and trees; and of course the awesomeness of the animals that Kenya is so known for. Each turn of my head, opened up a new insight on how complex and original our God in heaven is.
I stayed in a village called Limuru which is on top of a mountain. Below the mountain is the city of Nairobi. In between the two are acres of tea and coffee fields and spattered on their borders are huts and shacks designated to the tribes and common folk of Kenya. Some of these huts are residences, some are shops, restaurants, and other public facilities.
And what's more? Every 10 to 15 feet, on any stretch of road, there is an advertisement for a church or a signpost expressing that Jesus is Lord. Yes, Kenya is a Christian nation and there is no oppression in exhibiting one's belief.
KENYA, THE FIELDWORK:
Kenya, however, is a poor nation and is not able to sustain their churches without the help of other countries and missionaries.
I joined in as my friend taught male and female layworkers and pastors who wanted to further their theological education and earn either their bachelors or masters degree. As I was awestruck with the openness of sharing the gospel in Kenya, I challenged the students to actively pray and intercede for Egypt.
Before class started, worshipers edified our Lord with their tribal chants and songs. These Kenyans were on fire! It was so easy to join in and worship our Lord with them. I truly felt no inhibitions as I tried to catch the beat and move my feet with the African rhythms declaring praises to God, even if I couldn't understand the words! I knew God was smiling down.
I was also able to visit The Rift Valley Academy (RVA) which is home to hundreds of missionary kids from all over the world. RVA is a boarding school and is the largest of its kind in the world. And, blessed are the children who call RVA home, with mountains above and valleys below, the scenic splendors can only enhance their academics.
KENYA, THE SAFARI:
For those of you who know me to be a "picky" eater. You will be very pleased and proud to know, I ate ostrich and goat. Yes, I joined in on the adventure of trying something new. Believe it or not! My mom would be so proud! Right mom?
The safari took place in the tribe of the Maasai. The place, Maasai Mara. Starting our day at 4:00 a.m., we traveled one hour to the Mara, and didn't return until 7:00 p.m. that evening. God blessed this day as every animal seemed to be grazing. From wildebeasts, lions to hyenas, to elephants, zebras or giraffes, God's creation of animals is so intriguing to watch. The detail, design and shapes of these 4-legged carnivores are so exciting to see in motion. We became excited as we witnessed a giraffe just two feet from our vehicle, stretching his neck toward the closest tree. I was able to photo so many of these animal with my telephoto lens. Memories forever.
Many of you may have seen the movie "Out of Africa". I have now seen it in living color. There is a town named after the woman the movie was made about. The town is called Karen. And, many of the buildings are still standing and the Kakuyu Tribe that Karen was most noted for in saving their land, are still there this day. Upon returning from safari, we indulged in the movie "Out of Africa". How perfect a setting for such a movie. How real to life this movie and the life of Karen became to me.
KENYA, THE TRIBAL PEOPLE:
And, the people, of course, were brightly colored in their tribal clothes and wraps, each adorned with vibrant bracelets, necklaces and other accessories. Although they prefer not to be photographed, I was able to politely offer a few Kenyan shillings (a days wages) for a quick photo moment. The wage was no comparison to the treasure I acquired with my lens.
KENYA, THE CHALLENGES:
Rain is lacking. The rainy season has past and very little rain has fallen. This effects the power. For a year now, Kenya has been on electrical rationing. Each day is different, and some days, there is no electricity from 6:30 a.m. until 11:00 p.m. that evening. Once you have the routine down, one can schedule in a hot shower or hair washing, computer work, reading by lamp and not candle light, or just sitting in a brightly lit room. Electric rationing is truly a sacrifice.
I have found Egypt to be, even with my challenges here, much less of a sacrifice in the way of food and water in comparison to Kenya. In Kenya the closet grocery store with a variety of American-type food, is at least 30 minutes by car away. There are a few little huts near by that one can purchase a few needed staples. But, mostly, it is a challenge to run out of something. One evening, we were going to cook chicken. No chicken to be found. Either shops were closed or no chickens were in stock. We were satisfied by soliciting the local diner to boil us a couple half chickens. One must be resourceful and creative in Kenya.
I don't think I walked into one bathroom that had the hot and cold water faucet adjoining in order to find a warm temp to splash my face. The same for the bathtub/shower.
These are all conveniences that we take for granted in the USA, and truly, we should all admire and pray for those who sacrificially live out day to day in these environments all for the sake of our Lord.
Kenya was an awesome experience that I praise the Lord for allowing me. I have widened my horizons of missionary life in another third world country. I have experience the marvels of our Lord! I hope you have enjoyed hearing about it.
In awe of Him, Donna
