Journey of Faith - Uganda and Beyond

Keep it Straight and Simple

2012-02-08T08:20:00.000-08:00

I have a tendency to complicate things.

I have said that if there is a hard way to do something, I will find it. This is especially true if it has anything to do with mechanical "thing-a-ma-jigs" or numbers. Either one tends to short-circuit my brain.

Unfortunately, I also seem to complicate my life of faith. Lately I have been reading in Genesis and have so enjoyed the simple and straightforward faith of men like Noah and Abraham. They believed God, and they obeyed Him, even when such obedience drastically set them apart from their world.

And back then they had less peripherals to bolster their faith. There were no churches, weekly Bible studies, Bibles, radio evangelists, contemporary Christian music, e-devotionals, small groups, or a myriad of volumes on any topic of spirituality you can imagine. Perhaps that is why Jesus encouraged us to have faith like a child (Matthew 18:1-4). A child receives a word and believes it, usually with no questions asked, nor seeking for more assurances.

Last weekend I sent out an e-mail update, sharing what God has been teaching me concerning not confusing my priorities of ministry and my relationship with the Father who called me here. Here are some excerpts:

"This morning I read: 'Beware of any work for God which enables you to evade concentration on Him. A great many Christian workers worship their work.' (From "My Utmost for His Highest" - April 23)

"Ouch. That hurt.

"Finding value in what I accomplish is often a trap for me. At times I think, 'I am missionary. People are supporting me so I can get things done here. They need proof of their investment.' However, the truth is I am called by God (not by others) - just as you are, if you are a follower of Jesus Christ. God calls me foremost not to a task, a role or a mission, but to a relationship with Himself. And the overflow of the relationship with my Heavenly Father fuels and directs how I use my time, energy and resources. Lately, I have been reminded and challenged by these truths, especially as I enter a busy season here on the island.

"This past week marked the beginning of a new school year for many students, including our own who are attending Lingira Living Hope Secondary School. It is with excitement and some trepidation that I think about stepping back into my roles at the school - working in the financial office, teaching computer classes, and befriending and mentoring the girl students through the weekly Bible study and in some one-on-one discipleship. Honestly, sometimes I get overwhelmed - by the needs, by the culture, by what may be expected of me, by expectations I put on myself.

"But again I am reminded, God is not looking to me for the results, but to be faithful in my relationship to Him, and in what He has called me to. Phew, that is a stress reliever.

"'There is no responsibility on you for the work; the only responsibility you have is to keep in living constant touch with God, and to see that you allow nothing to hinder your cooperation with Him...We have no right to judge where we should be put, or to have preconceived notions as to what God is fitting us for. God engineers everything; wherever He puts us our one great aim is to pour out a wholehearted devotion to Him in that particular work. 'Whatever thy hand findeth to do, do it with thy might.'" (From "My Utmost for His Highest - April 23)

In the busyness of life, don't forget your first priority - your relationship with your Creator. Everything else is secondary."

God has been confirming this lesson in so many ways recently that I could probably write several blog posts, but I will stop here.

Wherever you are at, remember to first put God first.

Image Source: Microsoft Office Clip Art

Going for the Big "C"

2012-01-24T06:47:00.000-08:00

Whoa! It has been nearly 3 weeks since I last posted! It has been a busy "holiday" (the British word used here for "break" or "vacation") for me in the last month. A bout with malaria right before Christmas, visitors from the states, an out-of-the-country visit to a famous tropical location, and a trek to western Uganda were among the highlights of recent weeks. You will hear more about some of these adventures in future posts, but for now I want to share a recent lesson I have been learning.

When I was asked to be the Sunday preacher at our recent ministry staff retreat, a topic kept surfacing in my mind. It was a subject I knew God was instructing me in and the appropriateness of the message seemed to be confirmed in the staff discussions leading up to Sunday morning.

You are likely familiar with the statement, "The grass is always greener on the other side." Is it really, or do we just think so?

As I prepared to leave 2011 and enter 2012 and another phase of ministry, I found myself struggling with contentment, or rather the lack of it. Was I going to go through another year being single? How long would God keep me in this season, with no apparent changes on the horizon?

My unsettled heart was put in the spotlight when I received a Christmas gift from my parents - the book "The Resolution for Women." In encouraging women to make Christ-centered "resolutions," the book's first section focused on contentment and how to be "Surprisingly Satisfied." Ouch.

Discontentment can be like a plug on the spring of blessings which God desires to pour through our lives - blessings meant for His glory and the benefit of others. We are meant to be "channels of blessing," but discontentment can dry up our supply.

In my studying I discovered that when I am focused on what I do not have I do not appreciate what I do have, and am stingy in sharing my resources because I believe they are limited and must be rationed. In focusing on "green grass" elsewhere, I also do not appreciate the fertile field I presently am in, and shortchange myself in present blessings, relationships and opportunities. And can God continue to pour in and through me, when I won't release the flow?

Basically, discontentment is telling God that what He has provided for me right now is not good enough. Imagine saying that to God's face? Yikes.

Conversely, contentment "is the faith-filled belief that what God has bestowed now is worthy of gratitude and appreciation, not merely because it is enough, but because it is good.” - "The Resolution for Women"

My sermon was on how to "cultivate contentment" and here are the highlights:

1. Remember Who is in control.

· God is control of the world and my place and days in it.

· Psalm 103:19, Proverbs 21:1, Psalm 37:23, Psalm 139:16

· God is fulfilling His purposes, not mine. He has chosen, called and equipped me to be part of His plan to bring blessing and extend His kingdom. Thus, He has set me in particular seasons.

2. Focus on God’s conclusive promises. (They leave no doubt!)

· Hebrews 13:5, Philippians 4:19, Matthew 6:25-33, Psalm 37:25, 2 Peter 1:3, 2 Corinthians 9:6-12, Luke 6:38

· These are among the promises of God’s presence and provision as we trust Him for our needs. God also promises blessing as we are generous with others (not rationing our resources).

· These are only a few of the countless promises of God’s presence, protection and provision.

We serve a wealthy, loving and caring God!

3. Remember my own contemptible/corrupt state.

· I am not deserving of anything, let alone God’s incredible blessings.

· Contemptible: “Deserving of contempt (to be worthless, to be despised).”

· Paul recognized he was unworthy. Ephesians 3:8 (“least of all the saints”), I Corinthians 15:9 (“least of the apostles”), I Timothy 1:15 (“worst of sinners”).

4. Keep in mind the conclusion.

· This world is not our home and we are not made for it, therefore we should feel some discontentment amidst the pain, suffering, death and trials.

· Thus, we are to “strive for the prize,” live for eternity, and lay up treasures in heaven.

· Our present afflictions are light compared to future glory.

· Philippians 3:7-14, 2 Corinthians 4:17-5:10.

My discontentment may likely reveal that I am seeking satisfaction in other people or things. If you are struggling with the big "D" and are seeking the big "C," go to Christ and ask Him to search your heart and reveal the truth.

Contentment is “embracing (not settling for) my situation and circumstances at this moment, believing God has provided everything I need, and beyond so I may generously give to others.”

Image Source: Microsoft Office Clipart

Surrounded by "Family"

2012-01-02T11:09:00.000-08:00

Because I live in a different country and culture, I have learned not to have great expectations when it comes to celebrating holidays or observing special days. Things are done differently here - not wrong, just different from what I have been used to for most of my life.

This was my third Christmas spent in Uganda - first in 2006, then 2010 and this year. Each one has varied from the other, with usually a fusion of American and Ugandan traditions.

As I listened to my selection of Christmas music in the ~~days~~ weeks leading up to Christmas, I absentmindedly found myself singing, "I'll be home for Christmas...," then would catch myself with the realization that this would not be true. I would not be "home" - or would I?

One of the great realizations I have had on the missionfield is how very big the family of God is. As lovers of Jesus, we have brothers and sisters on every continent and in nearly every country. I have delighted in meeting "cousins," "parents," and "siblings," who are related by blood - the blood of Christ.

So although I was not with my dear mom, dad, sister and other relatives in Oregon, I felt immeasurably blessed this year to be surrounded by the family of God and in turn to feel "at home." Many of these dear ones are co-workers in the ministry and dear friends. When you work, eat, live, pray and worship alongside people on a regular basis you become community, but more like family.

God is the founder of the institution of the family, but I believe He had a much broader vision when He called Himself our Father and us His children. I am privileged to be in "the" family and I hope you feel the same way.

And in conclusion, here are some snapshots of my Christmas, including the days before and after:


Christmas morning at the Peterson home


Baking and decorating Christmas cookies. Me, left; Janae Peterson, upper right, and Immaculate Wafula, lower right.

From upper left clockwise, the Rudolph family visiting from Wisconsin over Christmas and New Years; SHIM staff Christmas party on the island; David Smith with some silly glasses; Peterson family Christmas tree; Janae and Pastor Bob Peterson presenting a Christmas song he wrote at a local Christmas gathering in Jinja; Christmas dinner - beef, chicken, rice, potatoes, cassava and greens - yum!; Johnathan Smith demonstrating his quickly-developing crawling skills; Spots - the Peterson's playful and cuddly kitten; SHIM staff Christmas party; stockings at the Peterson home (mine is on the far right); center photos - Santa visits Uganda, and a visit to see the Twali family - Julius, Ruth, Andrew and Baby Joseph, who was born Dec. 30.

Today, Jan. 2, we trekked out to Itanda Falls - the most impressive waterfalls/rapid area I have ever seen. It was awe-inspiring as we took in the width of the Nile River and the water that roared and rushed in massive volume downstream. Pictures do not do it justice. It was the closest thing I have seen to the incredible power of the Pacific Ocean off the Oregon coast. I can't easily upload videos, but would certainly love for you to have a better "taste" of Itanda. I guess you will just have to visit. : )


Itanda Falls Collage - People pictured: Top left, Peterson kids - Joshua, Jon, Janae and Josiah; center, the Rudolphs; lower right, me.

I pray you had a blessed Christmas and a happy New Year - surrounded by family, whether of physical or spiritual blood.

Going Home for Christmas

2011-12-23T11:39:00.000-08:00

This season two dear friends went home early for Christmas.

They said goodbye to the decaying earth and this brief discordant prelude to eternity, and "moved" to their heavenly abode.

After the Bible camp a couple of weeks ago, I learned that Deana, a gal I had worked with at the newspaper for a long time had passed away only a few days before. A long hidden illness had cut her life short quickly.

The news was jarring and I found myself frozen in moments of shock in the days following. She was among the first people I met at The Chief and she taught me much about the inner workings of a newspaper. We spent many hours in the office, working side by side - our desks hardly ten feet apart for a number of years.

At 42, Deana's life seemed cut short, and I wondered why. She seemed to have so much more life to live, dreams to pursue, goals to meet, family and friends to be with and enjoy. But her Creator called her home.

Though I will miss her smiling face behind the desk, I will remember and treasure the things I learned from her, especially those beyond the printed page. Devotion to Jesus and her church, loyalty and love for her large family and her wide circle of friends, creativity shared in generous ways, selfless dedication to her work - these qualities of Deana's remain in my heart and my memory.

Then this week I learned of the passing of Grandpa Grass, a father, grandfather and great-grandfather of some dear friends of mine. I also called him Grandpa and so enjoyed the times I saw and visited with him. One such a time was just days before I left again for Uganda this past summer. I cherish those memories.

He was 91 and had bravely endured pain and suffering for some time. His dear bride of many years had gone before him earlier this year and I know his heart was aching to be reunited with her. I can also only imagine how he longed to see his Savior face to face - the one he had loved and served for many years.

As I write, my heart is aching as I miss these dear souls. I wish I was in the states to be there to help provide comfort and support as their family and friends honor their memory in various services. I will miss seeing Deana and Grandpa Grass when I return home. I think the sense of loss will be felt once again.

Yet, they say you cannot be in two places at one time. And as we prepare for the imminent celebration of Christ's birth and His coming to earth, I imagine Deana and Grandpa Grass are very glad to be "home" for Christmas this year.

A Merry "Malaria" Christmas?

2011-12-22T05:25:00.000-08:00

I seem to have a knack for getting sick around a holiday.

Chickenpox came Thanksgiving Eve when I was just a little girl. Later, in my mid-teens,I sprained my wrist shortly before July 4th and my birthday (July 9th).

And then the most recent "celebratory" illness occurred this week. Sunday evening and Monday I was feeling "odd," which prompted me to go to a Jinja medical clinic. After having a blood test done, I was told I had "much" malaria in my blood.

I had been holding my breath (not in anticipation) for some time for my first encounter with this oh-too-common Ugandan illness, that at some point nearly every missionary here has to face. I right away began my medicine and wondered what I was in for in the coming days.

Female mosquitos are the carriers of the malaria parasites, which invade the human's liver and red blood cells. (BTW, male mosquitos are vegetarians, eating only plant nectar.)

"The parasite is relatively protected from attack by the body's immune system because for most of its human life cycle it resides within the liver and blood cells and is relatively invisible to immune surveillance." - Wikipedia

I have heard rather terrible stories about malaria and its range of symptoms. They can include fever, chills, joint pain (like your body was "run over by a Mack truck"), headache, vomiting, diarrhea, anemia, general overall weakness, jaundice, convulsions, retina damage, and an enlarged spleen. If, however, malaria goes untreated it can progress to even graver symptoms and can be deadly. This is not a disease to mess with.

"There were an estimated 225 million cases of malaria worldwide in 2009.An estimated 655,000 people died from malaria in 2010^, a 5% decrease from the 781,000 who died in 2009 according to the World Health Organization's 2011 World Malaria Report, accounting for 2.23% of deaths worldwide. Ninety percent of malaria-related deaths occur in sub-Saharan Africa, with the majority of deaths being young children." - Wikipedia

I did feel as if I had the flu for the last few days, but am so very thankful my symptoms were not as bad as some. I don't know why, and I don't know if it will be the same in future encounters.

I am feeling pretty "normal," or as normal as I can get. ; )

Right now, I am glad I will have a merry and malaria-free Christmas. Thank you so much to all who prayed for me - indeed God heard and answered! He is greater than any illness!

Information Source: Wikipedia
Photo Source: Microsoft Office Clipart

A Wild Week at WOL!

2011-12-17T04:29:00.000-08:00

It has been a week since I returned from Bible camp, and I am just finally writing a blog post on it. Sorry! This week has been a bit busy!

The camp that I and 10 island students attended last week was like a miracle becoming reality. Earlier this year we were offered 10 free scholarships to a Word of Life (WOL) camp near Kampala. But the logistics of organizing something and my being gone on furlough, pushed out the possibility until this month.

First was the task of choosing who among the nearly 100 students at the school could go. With counsel from the school's headmaster and discussion among those of us in the child sponsorship program, God laid 10 names on our hearts. New and struggling Christians, zealous student leaders, believers who lack depth in their walk, a Muslim and a Catholic - these made up my group. Amazingly enough, all agreed to go and received permission from their parents or guardians. For almost all, this would be their first-ever camp experience.

The second miracle is that they all showed up at the meeting place in Jinja - within an hour or so of the set time (not bad for Ugandans!). Fred, who came from an island beyond Lingira that morning, told how his boat was "strangely" early, and with a knowing smile said he was praying. It must have been his prayers that pushed the unaware boatmen to reach Jinja early. Several others also came by boat - in a storm. Agnes trudged through the rain from Kampala and arrived soaked to the skin. However, they all managed to find me at the meeting place - a gas station - even though I had given the wrong directions. I marveled and praised God that He made sure all of us were in the right place at the right time.

After a ride of several hours (including traveling on a very bumpy road) we arrived - in a beautiful camp, set atop a hillside, overlooking rolling hills and facing the western sky and amazing sunsets. These photos just don't do the scenery justice.

The week was full - morning to night with worship times, Bible teaching, devotional and discussion sessions, many fun and interesting activities, meals, sharing, etc.

David, the main speaker, shared on the "I AMs" of Christ several mornings at camp. They were thought-provoking and very applicable messages.

Amanda, a fellow Global Outreach missionary, was an amazing camp counselor - very attentive and very encouraging to the campers.

Lucy (Ruth) led in our worship times - singing a mix of English and Luganda songs to our Saviour!

Five nights of the camp had themes - "Primary (Elementary) Night," "Professional Night," "Go Green Night," "Wild West Night," and "Christmas Night." We were encouraged to dress accordingly and make presentations in songs, skits, poems, etc. to earn points for our respective teams. To try and be a good team member and encourage the other campers, I got a bit crazy (sheepish grin). Okay, crazy for me, anyway.

Yes, that is me with half of my face painted green. I also wore a green hat and shirt.

More "green" girls.

Our competition on the "green" night was against the boys and I can say we had an overwhelming victory. Even my simple poem of:

"Roses are red,

Violets are blue,

I am all green,

What's wrong with you?"

...was (strangely) a big hit. :)

Christmas-theme night...

Yes, that is a shepherd with a squeegee, third from left.

In my Christmas get-up - a red shirt, my green "hat," and my green wrap-around skirt (using my sheets!).

Chris, from the island, participating in "Professional Night's" fun "debate" to answer the question: "Which is better - doctors or lawyers?"

Mornings and afternoons included some outdoor activities, like the "Crazy Olympics":

Throwing small basketballs into tires - easy, right? Nope.

Working with your five team members to move together to move the slide forward - challenging.

Spinning five times around with your head planted on the end of a baseball bat has a dizzying effect - literally. Afterward, I stumbled around and then fell over!

Skipping to a victory...

One of my girls, Sarah, center, with her two counselors, Jackie and Ketra.

Word of Life also has primary and secondary schools at the same site, thus the swings for the "little" kids, though my girls also enjoyed them. From left, Zubeda, Sarah and Veronica.

Organizing for the group photo. Notice Agnes, far right, affectionately holding her mango. I think she ate a dozen or more that morning!

The island gang! Back row, from left: Fred, Atieno, Sarah, Veronica, Robert and Jackie; front row, Abed, Chris, Zubeda, me and Agnes.

I know each of "my" kids left camp having gained so much and having been challenged and changed in some way. Please join me in prayer that the seeds that were planted at camp will grow and bring forth fruit for eternity!

Please Verify Your Identity

2011-12-14T07:29:00.000-08:00

I just spent 10-15 minutes trying to log on to my credit card's website.

I entered an old password because I didn't recall that I had changed it awhile back - because I couldn't remember it then. Today I knew something was amiss when I was being asked security questions such as:

"What was the name of your first boyfriend or girlfriend?" Since I have never had a boyfriend, I wasn't sure how to answer the question.

Then there was: "Name your favorite sports team." The LA Dodgers, the Portland Trailblazers? My mind searched for what response I might have given when I chose the question so long ago. Or did I even choose that security question?

I liked this one: "What was the name of your first pet?" Ah, yes, an easy one - Fuzzy - our first-ever orange tabby cat. :)

After logging in and out of the site several times, I finally accomplished what I had set out to do - make a payment. Phew. A lot of frustration for a little work.

It seems that passwords, user IDs, pin numbers, etc. are required at and in so many places - ATM's, Amazon, e-mail, Facebook, and a myriad of other Internet sites. Unfortunately, my memory is challenged, especially when it comes to remembering numbers. I have tried to come up with ways to compensate for that. ; )

All of this reminds me how grateful I am that I don't have to "log in" when I want to talk to my Heavenly Father or go through an automated routing service just to have some quiet time with Him.

Can you imagine such a scenarios as: "Press 1 to talk to an angel to make an appointment with God," "Press 2 to being your quiet time," "Press 3 to log in to learn what the Holy Spirit is speaking to you"?

Although I am one among nearly 7 billion people on earth, God knows who I am and everything about me. I don't need to submit a password to verify my identity with Him.

We make things complicated, God keeps them simple.

I love the following promises:

"Before they call I will answer; while they are still speaking I will hear." - Isaiah 65:24

"Sacrifice thank offerings to God, fulfill your vows to the Most High, and call upon me in the day of trouble; I will deliver you, and you will honor me.” - Psalm 50:14-15

What does God want? Not passwords, nor IDs.

"'For I know the plans I have for you,' declares the Lord, 'plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart. I will be found by you,' declares the Lord,' and will bring you back from captivity.'" - Jeremiah 29:11-14a (emphasis mine)

I am God's child and He wants me to seek Him with all of my heart.

Gaining New Vision

2011-12-03T22:45:00.000-08:00

(The following is a recent e-mail update I sent out.)

I remember clearly the day I received my first pair of glasses (half my lifetime ago). My parents were prompted to get my sister and I eyewear when they discovered we couldn't properly see distances. Ordering the same frozen dessert from Dairy Queen because I couldn't properly see the sign was getting a bit old. ; )

As I slipped on my my new glasses on that special day, I was taken aback by the brightness and clarity of the world around me. There were so many things I had apparently been missing. Details - like a man's unshaven face and leaves on trees jumped out at me. I wouldn't trade a clearer vision for those pre-glasses days! The "burden" of putting something on my face every day, all day, is no comparison to the great benefit of being able to see clearly.

In early November I began a four-month journey in an online course - the "Perspectives on the World Christian Movement." Just a few minutes ago, I finished listening to a lecturer speak about God's movement through history - from Biblical times up to our day, and how He has used people all over the world to advance His message of love, grace and redemption.

Through this course, I feel as if I have put on new spiritual glasses, gaining a greater vision of what God has been and is doing in the world. Taking a huge step back, I am gaining a greater glimpse of God, His incredible purposes and how He wants to involve each of us in His global, history-enfolding and unfolding plan.

During one of my recent Bible studies with the island girls, I asked them why they had received salvation. Most replied, "to be saved from sin" or "to go to heaven." These are true, but are really only a small part of a very big picture. I asked the girls that if they had a cure for a horrible disease, would it not be wrong to withhold that information from people who desperately needed it?

You and I have indeed been saved from sin and thus we are destined for eternity in the presence of God in heaven, but being a follower of Christ is so much more. Before Jesus ascended to heaven, He gave "marching orders" to His disciples.

"All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always to the end of the age." - Matthew 28:18-20

"And this gospel of the kingdom will be proclaimed throughout the whole world as a testimony to all nations, and then the end will come." - Matthew 24:14 (emphasis mine)

Many of us long for the return of Jesus, but may not realize we have an important part to play to help usher in His second coming. The Great Commission (given in Matthew 28) was not Jesus' words only to the 11 disciples, but to all of His disciples in all future generations. I am a missionary, but so are you. If you are a Christian, you are automatically a missionary - to be a witness for Christ. You have been given a message, a mission and a mandate. We have information about the "cure" for the horrible worldwide "disease" of sin.

"But," you may ask, "I don't feel called to a foreign land." All around us, whether in the U.S., Africa or in any place around the world, there are lost people - needing to know the hope of salvation and God's incredible love and purposes for them. You can be a missionary to people that other Christians will never meet or reach.

I encourage you to find out what God is doing around you and in the world, and take your part in the big picture. You will be amazed as you gain a greater vision of God's incredible heart and desire for peoples of every tribe and tongue to someday worship Him.

May God bless and strengthen you as you serve Him in your corner of the world!

A brief update on what is happening here:

This week I am taking 10 students from our island school to a Word of Life Bible camp outside of Kampala. (Read this previous post for more information.) Some of the students are new Christians and/or those who need deepening of their faith. One young man in our group is Muslim and one young lady is Catholic. I have been praying for "my" kids as well as the others who will be at the camp - that they would see God in a new and deeper way, and thus be drawn to walk closer to Him. I would so appreciate your prayers this week!
The island school concluded its year on Nov. 24 and now the teachers and students are on holiday until late January, when the new school year begins. Please be in prayer for the students - for God's protection of their minds and bodies. Some come from non-Christian homes and villages and peers who often pressure them to make wrong choices. We desire the island students to be lights for Christ in their homes and communities!
The Morning Star Ladies' Bible study is also on break. In my last time with the girls, I challenged them to memorize Ephesians 5:1-17 during their two-month holiday. Pray that the words of this chapter would penetrate their hearts and minds, and that the lessons on purity taught during the Bible study in the recent term would be recalled to rightly direct their decisions and behavior.
Christmas time is coming! The SHIM family will soon be going on a holiday break, but there will still be a lot of activity going on, with visitors, traveling, and holiday gatherings in the coming weeks. Pray that our focus would remain on Christ during this special season and that we would have opportunity to share His hope with whoever we meet.

Thank you so much for your continued prayers, support and encouragement! I am so very grateful to God for each of you!

May God bless you abundantly and grant you joy, hope and peace as you reflect on His blessed birth in this special season!

P.S. I highly recommend the Perspectives course to any and every Christian. Classes are available online and in classroom settings around the U.S. and the world. Visit www.perspectives.org for more information.

Photo Source: Microsoft Office Clip Art

Camping...

2011-12-03T10:38:00.000-08:00

...in December?

Yes, I am going to camp this week! I never thought I would ever camp in the 12th month of the year. Coming from the part of the world that is currently among the coldest, needless to say quite wet, I always thought camping season ended around mid to late September.

Actually, when I was young that is usually when we scheduled our family camping trips - when all of the public school children were back in class and parks and campsites were generally less crowded. We made some great family memories during those treasured September trips. But that is another story...

Tomorrow myself and a group of students from our island school will be going to a Word of Life camp near Kampala for a full week of fun and learning. Earlier this year God blessed us with 10 free scholarships to send some of our students to camp. As we prayerfully considered who to send from the nearly 100 students at Lingira Living Hope, God laid certain names on our hearts.

Some are new Christians, while others are considered leaders among their peers. Some have professed Christ for a long time, but appear to lack depth in their walk with Him. One young man is a Muslim. The Catholic young lady has softened so much toward Christ since I first met her, and I believe she is on the verge of receiving salvation. Each has a story and at least some kind of encounter with Jesus Christ.

I am praying for each of these young men and women, as well as the other young people who will be attending the camp this week. God knows their hearts, lives, challenges, secrets, dreams, etc., and He wants them to know Him more than ever before. Will you join me in prayer this week that God would have His way in each camper's life?

I am excited to see what God will do this week! (Look for a report next weekend!)

P.S. Unlike the camping I did as a child, we will not be sleeping in tents this week, for which I am actually grateful. ;)

Photo Source: Microsoft Office Clip Art

Indeed, I Am Thankful!

2011-11-24T09:17:00.000-08:00

While many of my friends in the Western Hemisphere are just preparing for their Thanksgiving day and its feasts, family gatherings, fellowship, fun and even some football, I am reflecting on a full day and a full stomach. : )

Among the things I am most grateful for today is that I did NOT miss the boat for Thanksgiving! Rain that began last night continued into the morning hours and a boat that I normally take for the 1-1/2 hours to Jinja, skipped my village.

Disheartened and fighting back tears, I trudged through mud and puddles, praying I would find a boat at the other end of the island. As I approached the shore, my grateful eyes saw a boat landing, which would take me to Jinja. Yay!

This afternoon I joined fellow missionaries, most of whom are serving here in Uganda with Global Outreach, in a special time of fellowship, praise, and feasting at Good Shepherd's Fold (GSF), an orphanage outside Jinja.

For those of you wondering what we eat here in Uganda for Thanksgiving - let me tell you, I don't think any traditional element was lacking. We enjoyed savory turkey, fluffy mashed potatoes, brown gravy, green bean casserole, cornbread pudding, macaroni and cheese (okay, it's not traditional, but it is American), cranberry sauce, sweet potato casserole, salad, rolls, cookies, pies... Oh, no wonder I am so full!

After almost missing the boat in the morning, I was very thankful I didn't miss this special Thanksgiving celebration with my "family" here - those among the children of God in Uganda.

Here are some photos, to give you a "taste" of my day. : )


Bob and Michelle Peterson leading us in some praise music. (Michelle is holding Johnathan Smith.)


The Smith family enjoying their Thanksgiving meal.


We even had Indians at our feast! From left: Katie (from England), who is working as a nurse at GSF, Sarah, a visitor and cousin of Amanda, far right, who is here teaching missionary children and ministering to children and youth at GSF. Can you see Katie's patriotic "warpaint" on her cheeks? She was really getting into the spirit! :)


The feast


The feasters


Drinking ginger soda


David with one of his favorite buddies - Josiah Peterson I love this little guy (Johnathan Smith)! He was wearing a "Thanksgiving" outfit, complete with turkeys and other holiday-related pictures, and a patch that read "1st Thanksgiving." I want to wish all of you a most happy and blessed Thanksgiving! May our thoughts and praises be toward our Awesome God - from Whom ALL blessings flow!

Island Life, Part 3 - "Dos and Don'ts"

2011-11-16T01:23:00.000-08:00

(This is the third in an occasional series about life on Lingira Island. For part 1, click here. For part 2, click here.)

Life on an island can be an interesting experience. But maybe you have already figured that out if you read the first two posts in this series. This post is about the "dos and don'ts" of life on Lingira.

We do not have vehicles on the island, perhaps because there aren't roads, only paths. There is one motorcycle, which was given to the police, but they wondered what to do with it without roads to run it on. So someone is using it to ferry people and loads, for a profit, on one of the more level paths that runs between two villages. SHIM has its trusty "car," an orange wheelbarrow, which comes in very handy for transporting things around our property, or down to the school or boat. On Wednesdays, I would frequently load up the wheelbarrow with several computers, the generator, extension cord, power cord, and my teaching materials and wheel it all down to the school for classes.

David and Andrew enjoying some time in SHIM's island "car."

You do not pass someone without offering at least a simply greeting. You do say something like "Oli otya," a combination of "Good afternoon and how are you," or "wee bali" ("thank you"), or "jee bali," which means "well done." You say the latter no matter what the person you pass is doing, even if they are just sitting there. : )

As noted in other posts, we do not have running water here. We do have three water tanks, however, which hold rain water caught off the roofs. Whether you are washing dishes, bathing, washing clothes, mopping, etc., you must first get your rainwater, putting it in a bucket or basin. No indoor plumbing also equals no flushing toilets. We have some nice pit latrines (outhouses) though. ; )

Workers last year building our 7,000-gallon tank for catching rainwater off the roof of the admin. building.

Though we don't have running water, we do have Internet. There are priorities, you know. : )

There are no electrical instruments or equipment used in our island church, but honestly I don't think we need them. In a recent conversation with one of the island teachers, he commented that those things were missing, therefore I might also miss them. No, I said, if I had to choose where to worship in Uganda, I would choose our simple, but exuberant island church. I love the combination of the traditional drums, the rythmic clapping, the deafening shouting, the joyous dancing and the overall enthusiasm of the people to be in God's house. A keyboard or mics maybe would add something, but in my opinion they would only detract from the island people's wholehearted gift of worship and praise to their God.

This video is actually of another island church, but the exuberant praise and worship is much the same as my own church.

We do not have supermarkets on the island, but we do have simple island shops where you can buy the basic items - flour, soap, sugar, soda, biscuits (cookies), etc. By the way, soda and biscuits are necessary items, especially if visitors land on your doorstep. It is customary to give them something to eat or drink.

We don't have apples or grapes, but we do have pineapple, mangos, papaya, oranges, lemons, as well as tomatoes, eggplant, lettuce, maize (corn), pumpkins, watermelon, passion fruit, sweet potatoes, millet, sesame seed, cassava (a root, like a potato) - all grown on this island! Much of these things I mentioned are grown in the SHIM gardens. It is like living in a fruit basket!

A glimpse of SHIM's flourishing gardens. They are under the oversight of the visionary and talented Julius Twali - our "agriculture man." He is shown in the top and lower middle photos. Justus, a helper, is shown on the left in the lower photo.

There are other island "dos and don'ts," but they will have to wait for a future post. I do have other work to get done, so I don't get behind. :)

Inspirational Friday: "You Were Meant to Be"

2011-11-11T04:00:00.000-08:00

I may start a new series called "Inspirational Fridays" where on an occasional Friday, I post something inspirational. : )

I recently bought Steven Curtis Chapman's album: "Re-Creation." I like all of the songs, but there are a couple that I really enjoy that I am sharing with you today. I find them "inspirational," especially when I am undertaking my daily (and sometimes monotonous) task of sweeping and mopping the floors of our admin. building.

If you are struggling with where you are now and with what God has you doing, I hope you are both blessed and inspired by the following songs.

In case there is any doubt,

"You are perfectly, wonderfully,
Beautifully meant to be
You were meant to be
Meant to be..."

Island Life, Part 2

2011-11-05T02:39:00.000-07:00

(This is the second post in an ongoing "Island Life" series. For the first one, click here.)

After my first visit to Uganda (in 2006-07), people asked about my favorite part. Without hesitation, I would reply, "The people." My answer would likely be the same today.

I have met some amazing people here, and some of my favorites live on the island. Let me introduce a few to you.

Papa and Mama O - Okoro and Olive

Papa and Mama O teach in a Family Ministry seminar.

Papa and Mama O, as they are affectionately called by nearly everyone, have lived and served on the island since 2000. They were serving with YWAM (Youth With A Mission) when I first met them back in 2006. They have been with SHIM since the first half of 2007 - joining shortly after Shepherd's Heart was established.

The Os remind me of my own parents. Papa O loves to talk, tell stories and make people laugh - like my own father. Papa is great as the head of hospitality as he truly desires for every visitor to feel "most welcome." He is known for his traditional dancing, his singing, his impersonations of "American" accents, and his funny sayings and stories.

Mama O with their firstborn Harriet and Harriet's twin daughters, born last December.

Mama O provides a wonderful balance to Papa as she is the more reserved, more organized, more detailed one - much like my own mom. She is the hardest working person I have ever met - often working from dawn to dusk. Mama O is also very compassionate, generous and discerning.

As a complementary team, the Os make great leaders of our Family Ministry branch - organizing seminars in churches, visiting island homes, and sharing God's perspective of marriage and family. Their ministry is authenticated by their own lives, having been married for 25+ years with six beautiful God-fearing adult children, five grandchildren and another on the way.

They are not from the islands, but felt called to serve here 10+years ago. Trained as a teacher and nurse, respectively, Papa and Mama turned their backs on secure careers, respect from peers and family, mainland life and security, much like the call of Abraham. But as Papa O shared recently, God has provided for them and their children. Three of their kids have completed their university education, with the most recent finishing at the top of his class.

As the Os have been faithful to God's calling, God has been faithful to meet their needs. They are not seeking lands, houses or treasure on earth, but are storing up riches in the heavenly kingdom as they minister to the individual and families of the islands and beyond.

I think you can see why I love this couple! : )

Island Teachers

Three of our island teachers, Joy, Topista and Violet, shown with the girls of this year's graduating class.

Our island secondary (high) school - Lingira Living Hope - was founded in February 2006, and in the last 5+ years there have been quite a number of dedicated teachers who have served among its staff.

To live and work on the islands is a sacrifice, especially for most Ugandans. These places are often despised. Those who work here often have families living elsewhere and perhaps houses, land and businesses on the mainland that they have to leave unattended. Many Ugandans fear water and will not cross it to make a living. But our island teachers do just that.

Of the eight teachers on staff, three are mothers who balance teaching with caring for their young ones - 2-1/2 years and younger. There are five male teachers, most of whom do not yet have families, but are still responsible for younger siblings, parents and other relatives. Because they have a stable job, many look to them for support.

The Headmaster (Principal) Sam and Deputy Headmaster (Vice Principal) Fred both completed university degrees this year - using their holiday breaks from the school to become students themselves, filling their free time to hone their professions.

Headmaster Sam Okello, right, with a visiting university professor from Oregon.

The teachers' perseverance, dedication and sacrifice are amazing to me as they tirelessly instruct and mentor the 100+ students in their care.

I find the teachers of Lingira Living Hope amazing and I know God honors their faithful dedication.

The Students of Lingira Living Hope
When I came back to Uganda in early 2010 I had no idea I would be as involved with the school and students as I am now.

But God showed me in late November 2010 that youth and teaching are among the "passions" He has put in me. I find great joy in interacting, teaching and just being with the young men and women of Lingira Living Hope.

They are unlike any group of youth I have every worked with in that there are language, cultural and racial barriers that can and sometimes do exist between us. But as in most relationships, when you show care, people respond by opening up their hearts and lives.

Anna - one of my favorite students. She is small in stature but big in joy, love and service to God.

Some of the boys and girls come from difficult homes and circumstances, others are basically on their own with no parents or guardian to look after them. Rejection from family is among the consequences some face for choosing Christ. Many worry about where their school fees will come from, how to buy soap or other basic needs, or how they will live during the school breaks. Their challenges are often beyond what I can relate to.

When I look at them, however, I see huge potential - as those created in the image of God, as the future of the island and of Uganda. For many, an education is a hope to secure a better future for themselves and their families. School may be a chance of survival.

Students and teachers of Lingira Living Hope

My greatest desires for these young people are for them to catch a glimpse of how God sees them, and to embrace the abundant life and purposes He has for them. Life is more than survival - indeed God wants us to thrive in Him. This is my hope for the students of Lingira Living Hope.

I never thought that people on a remote island in a small African country would capture my heart, but they certainly have.

Island Life, Part 1

2011-10-21T06:20:00.000-07:00

I live on a tropical island.

It's true.

Lingira Island is found on the world's largest tropical lake, Lake Victoria, and is just north of the equator. We have days and weeks and months of sunshine, with the only occasional cloudy and/or rainy day. The rain here comes and goes quickly.

A birds-eye view of the island. "Lingira" means "peeking" in Luganda. :)

We have pretty much the same amount of daylight year-round. Out here there are a number of varieties of colorful and unique birds, as well as many species of flora and some fauna. A gentle breeze often cools the air. Big puffy clouds float across the sky and the evenings often close with brilliant sunsets, ushering in the star-studded nights.

"Island" Collage

Now if the words "tropical island" conjure up images of swaying palm trees and me sunbathing on a beach with a cold drink in my hand, well, let me clarify. By the way, there are no palm trees here.

I love the island - it is peaceful, beautiful and some of my favorite people live here. But life here is interesting.

For instance, take the last 24 hours. Once darkness settled yesterday evening, so came the "plague" of lake flies. These seasonally gnat-like creatures "crave" light. They swarm by the thousands (maybe millions!) around any light they can find - porch light, flashlight, phone, etc. After eating dinner (and probably a few of the critters in the process) I took refuge in my semi-dark bedroom and went to bed early. I dared not turn on any light. (Note: I wrote about lake flies in Feb. 2010 in this post.)

This morning their little bodies were scattered across our floors. Sweeping and swiping away the cobwebs became a tedious job as these wispy bugs flew about.

In front of Andy and Karina's house, I carted away probably a dozen buckets of these greenish, smelly things. It looked like a small snowstorm had hit the Smith home, but it was only...bugs.

The small "mountain" of lake flies I removed by the bucket-full from in front of the Smith home. My shoe is there for perspective.

Bugs are everywhere here. Do not dare leave any food out or the small, army-like ants will quickly locate it and call in for back-up troops. The island's strange-looking critters also include crickets with long antennas, flat spiders, flying beetles and bees that resemble B-24 bombers.

Industrious wasps called mud-daubers fly about literally building little mud houses everywhere (including on clothes, on books, on walls, on just about anything). They then lay their eggs inside and stock the little house with dead spiders for their young to feed on. Can I just say yuck?

Mud-dauber "houses" built in the corner of a room.

Then this morning while cleaning up the obnoxious lake flies, my right foot came in contact with an iron sheet (used for roofing here), cutting the base of my small toe. By the amount of blood dripping off my foot, I suspected the cut was deep and called for Mama O, a trained nurse. She came and quickly attended to my foot, cleaning it and applying "plasters" - band-aids.

Now with my right foot in a sock to keep it clean, I am hobbling about, sorta.

For any of you planning a trip to the island, don't let this post scare you. There are many other interesting, but good things, about my little 'ol tropical island, but they will be unveiled in future posts.

Now, let me get back to my book and cold drink...

P.S. Did you know that the word "insect" comes from a Greek word meaning "cut into sections." Strange.
(Source: Wikipedia)

Whose directions are you following?

2011-10-16T09:29:00.000-07:00

I believe there is a fine line in ministry. A line between accomplishing "necessary" tasks and goals, and being with and meeting the needs of the people around you. Sometimes the two mix, sometimes they don't.

Are you a task-oriented person ((TOP) or a people-oriented person (POP)?

I am a task-oriented person and an introvert. While I enjoy people, I can also spend hours alone, fixated on a project. After spending any substantial time with people, I often find it necessary to get away and "recharge." I realize God created us differently - in personality, in giftings, and in the issues and people which stir our hearts.

Lately, I have been thinking about the focus of my ministry here, or rather the Lord's ministry that He has invited me to be a part of in Uganda.

My involvements and responsibilities have increased since I returned to Uganda two months ago. On one hand, I am grateful to be busy and active. On the other hand, sometimes I become weary after trying to accomplish my "work," that I don't have enough energy remaining for people. I put "work" in quotes because I have a hard time using the word as it can suggest something like a 9-to-5 job, which is not how I want to portray what I am doing here.

Sometimes I wonder how Jesus did it during His ministry on earth. I am sure there were certain things and tasks that had to be accomplished as part of His mission, yet He always seemed to take time for the people - the hungry and pressing crowds, the sick and despised individuals, the minimized outcasts, the needy disciples, the "sinners." How did He do it?

Jesus testified over and over again that He was on earth to do His Father's will, not to accomplish His own agenda. Here, the incarnate Son of God, willingly placed Himself under the authority and direction of His Father - reflecting their perfect unity and divine eternal relationship.

"Jesus gave them this answer: 'I tell you the truth, the Son can do nothing by himself; he can do only what he sees his Father doing, because whatever the Father does the Son also does. For the Father loves the Son and shows him all he does. Yes, to your amazement he will show him even greater things than these. For just as the Father raises the dead and gives them life, even so the Son gives life to whom he is pleased to give it. Moreover, the Father judges no one, but has entrusted all judgment to the Son, that all may honor the Son just as they honor the Father. He who does not honor the Son does not honor the Father, who sent him.'" - John 5:19-23

Each step, each word, each act of mercy, each encounter of the Son was directed and inspired by the Father. I believe they were in constant communion. Jesus accomplished all that the Father had given Him to do because He was never out of contact (aside from the few hours surrounding His sacrificial death).

How do I know what is good, better or the best of what God wants me to do? How do I know if this task or that person is of the highest priority? Knowing myself, I know I need to put more emphasis on the people around me. The souls of people are the only things that will continue past this world. And, God has called us to play an important role in sharing the incredible Good News of His amazing love and salvation with the souls around us.

Yes, God made us differently - introverts, extroverts, A-type and B-type personalities, varying spiritual gifts, abilities and experiences, and more. Obviously God did this on purpose, but in all, whatever our makeup, we must remain submitted to the Father and the directing of the Holy Spirit. This may mean allowing "interruptions" or the rearranging of our schedules and to-do lists for the "divine encounters."

Whether you're a TOP or POP, let the Father be your Guide in all that you do.

May we say as Jesus said, "I can do nothing by myself."

A Recipe for Uganda's Future Success

2011-10-10T01:09:00.000-07:00

Uganda was only a teenager - 18 - when I was born. Yesterday, it marked its 49th year of independence from its surrogate mother - Britain - which came October 9, 1962. Before independence, Uganda was under British rule and care for 68 years - since 1894.

Yesterday, when I came off the island and arrived in Jinja late morning, I was not aware of the important holiday. But when I saw two large groups of soldiers gathering on one of the streets, I became concerned. "What is going on?" I asked my boda (motorcycle) driver. "It's Independence Day," he responded. Later as I shopped in one of the local supermarkets, a celebratory band marched past, performing an upbeat tune and parading proudly down Main Street.

Later in the day, as I watched one of the news stations report on the day's festivities, a question was asked. It was along the lines of "In 49 years since independence, do you think Uganda has made great strides as a nation?" I knew I personally couldn't answer that question. I wasn't born when the nation was birthed in 1962, and really had little knowledge of the country until my first visit in 2006, only five years ago.

By the way, it was on Uganda's Independence Day, Oct. 9, 2006, that I left the U.S. for my first trip to Uganda. : )

Throughout the day, I pondered the station's question and what my response might be.

Uganda is a beautiful country in East Africa, thus earning it the exquisite title of "Pearl of Africa." The people, their tribes, their languages and many of their cultural ways are beautiful. The green, fertile, rolling landscape is breathtaking. The mighty Nile, which flows north to Egypt, finds its source in the massive Lake Victoria. That "Source" is just a few miles from where I sit now.

Looking toward the "Source of the Nile" - where Lake Victoria empties into the Nile River.

Majestic and unique animals, vivid flora, varying landscapes, bright blue cloud-filled skies, star-studded nights...Uganda is truly breathtaking in so many ways.

Sometimes I think the people don't realize how much they really have. Uganda is extremely fertile. It has two growing seasons and crops grow about 2 to 3 times faster than those in my home state of Oregon, which is much farther north, is colder, wetter, and has only one growing season.

Ugandan Tea Fields

A radio station reported yesterday that the Buganda king (yes, there is still the presence of the pre-Britain tribal kingdom), was asking young people to return from the cities and work the land once again. In my humble opinion, Uganda must develop all of its resources - both the natural and the man-made - to succeed in the coming years. Yes, the land must be developed and cared for, and yet the young people need to learn other trades and skills in order to lead Uganda into the future.

For Uganda to survive and thrive, it must get past some serious issues that can stunt its growth:

Corruption is like a serious contagious virus here. Hardly any time passes before you hear of someone - a government official, a worker, someone entrusted with valuable resources, and others from all classes and statutes taking what does not belong to them. Unfortunately, Christians, including pastors, have not been exempt from this sin.

In a recent conversation on corruption with the island school's Headmaster, he noted that when people are in a job or position they often want to get the most from it as they don't know how long they will be there. It is a "survival mentality" - "take everything I can get now, as I don't know what I will have available tomorrow." They seem to abide by the Scripture, "Eat, drink and be merry, for tomorrow we die." (Luke 12:19)

However, many seem to steal out of genuine or at least "perceived" need.

In a recent situation that was somewhat close to me, a young woman took some money from a house she was employed at. She then used some of it to buy a phone for her father and pay school fees for younger siblings. She did not waste it all on herself, but sought to assist her family. I am not condoning theft at all, but I find it interesting the reasoning that propels people to steal and practice corruption.

What they may not realize is that why they are picking pockets, someone is likely picking theirs. Corruption is a vicious cycle that must be broken.

This small country has the third highest growth rate in the world. Last September, Uganda's population stood at 33.8 million people - about 9 times that of Oregon's 3.8 million. Comparatively, Uganda's land area is about the same size as Oregon. The median age of a Ugandan is 15. The average woman here gives birth to seven children.

Lingira Living Hope's Senior 4 Class

The "Pearl" is rich in young people. Schools often have a hard time accommodating so many students. Jinja Senior Secondary School here in Jinja, has a student population of about 5000 and is said to be the largest secondary school in East Africa. To ensure Uganda survives another 49, 50, 75 years, these young people must be trained to lead. Many schools are doing a good job of shaping the young men and women, but there is always room for improvement.

One last area that I believe Uganda needs to develop to succeed, is to truly gain independence.

This small country is one of the most talked about when it comes to foreign and humanitarian aid, missions efforts, and other forms of help. My mission agency, Global Outreach International, has its largest group of missionaries - 20+ - in Uganda, more than any in other place in the world. There are likely a couple of hundred missionaries based in the Jinja area alone. And I know many others are located in other parts of the country.

Awhile back I came to the conclusion that Uganda is "spoiled." Spoiled in the fact that it has received so much help that it has forgotten how to care for its own. When a mzungu or foreign presence is around, people often shirk their God-mandated responsibilities. In our child sponsorship program, we frequently have to remind our students' families and relatives that we have not taken over care of the child - they are still responsible in so many ways.

A Ugandan girl

I am not saying that past or current help is not needed in Uganda. Many here are suffering and do have genuine needs. But those of us on the ground must be careful not to practice paternalism - doing for others what they can do for themselves. Finding that fine line can be very difficult here.

Uganda must learn, at some point, to begin standing on its own two feet. This begins from the top down. The president, the members of parliament, and others in authority - they must set the example. But it can also begin in the humble homes and villages throughout this land.

Discipleship class graduates - Training island leaders in God's ways

I am proud to be working with SHIM, a ministry that focuses on coming alongside the nationals and equipping them to recognize and fulfill their God-given potential and responsibilities.

It is in God's Word that we find the "recipe for success" that Uganda so greatly needs.

"He has showed you, O man, what is good. And what does the LORD require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God." - Micah 6:8

"And now, O Israel, what does the LORD your God ask of you but to fear the LORD your God, to walk in all his ways, to love him, to serve the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul, and to observe the Lord’s commands and decrees that I am giving you today for your own good?" - Deuteronomy 10:12-13

"Fix these words of mine in your hearts and minds; tie them as symbols on your hands and bind them on your foreheads. Teach them to your children, talking about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up. Write them on the doorframes of your houses and on your gates, so that your days and the days of your children may be many in the land that the Lord swore to give your forefathers, as many as the days that the heavens are above the earth." - Deuteronomy 11:18-21

Happy 49th Anniversary, Uganda! Indeed, may the years ahead be those of Divine success and blessing!

Update on "Oppressed Princesses" Post

2011-10-07T11:13:00.000-07:00

I learned today that the young woman I referred to in the "Oppressed Princesses" post likely suffered a seizure caused by a high 103-degree fever, a complication of possible malaria. While it may have appeared as a demonic attack, there seems to have been a real physical cause for this girl's suffering. She was treated today and is improving.

While I was mistaken in the actual circumstances of this young woman, I still believe there is an oppression of women here in Uganda and throughout Africa. I do not doubt oppression's spiritual roots and that it can and is a tool of Satan against God's prized creations. Only God's power can free them.

Thank you for your prayers!

Oppressed Princesses

2011-10-06T07:34:00.000-07:00

This morning as I walked to the school I heard students singing. It wasn't the normal day for their mid-week service, so I was curious as to why they had gathered. As I drew closer, I realized the singing was coming from the teachers' housing block, which I found even more unusual.

When I reached the school office I learned that some of the students were praying and interceding - on behalf of a classmate. A classmate who was suffering from a demonic attack. At different times, amid the singing and praying, I heard her cry out and scream. At one point, several girls held her, bringing her back to the room for further prayer.

It wasn't until I came to Uganda that I saw the spiritual realm in such a visible way. Satan is not shy here. The practice of witchcraft and demonic activity are not uncommon, and the Prince of Darkness does not let former prisoners go easily. Africa was once known as the "Dark Continent" because so little was known about it. But, I also believe it is because Satan has had such a long and strong foothold here.

The young woman under attack this morning had given her life to Christ earlier this year. Since that time, God had put her on my heart for discipleship. When Andy held a discipleship class in March and April and we were discussing those who needed it, I brought her name forward, concerned that this baby Christian receive some instruction and guidance.

Some of the girl students of Lingira Living Hope Secondary School

Even as I returned to the U.S. for my furlough, this young woman remained on my heart, and I planned that when I returned, I would begin meeting with her one-on-one. But with getting back into the swing of things and assuming some extra responsibilities, I have yet to initiate the discipleship. However, this morning's incidents pressed her name and situation deeper upon my heart.

As I talked with the school's Headmaster about this young woman, he spoke of her uncle who had performed some kind of demonic covenant - against her continuing on to higher education. I had never heard of such a thing. But it rang true.

There have been many young women in Uganda who have not been allowed to study - because they were either forced to marry young, or any money available went to the boys' education instead. Culturally, women are seen as "lower" than men, and their main (and sometimes only) function is to take care of the home and raise children. Many young women at our island school seem to suffer from "mysterious" illnesses and other hardships.

A few of the Lingira Living Hope "Princesses"

It is not as common today, but women of the area tribes were not permitted to eat certain foods - chicken, eggs, fish, etc., as these were reserved for the men. Women and children also ate separately from the men. On the islands, where there has not been as much development, nor teaching of Biblical principles, women are still devalued and undervalued, even among church leaders. Pastors have been known to mistreat and abuse their wives and children. Thankfully, some of these practices have and are beginning to change. But in some places, they are still too common.

I am not a feminist, but I do believe God created us - men and women - equally, but gave them differing roles and responsibilities.

Satan's entire aim is to destroy humans - the apex of God's creation. The enemy of mankind does his work by all means possible - bondage, abuse, stealing, killing, lying, destroying, oppression, poverty, and many other "tools." The fact that witchcraft is performed to prevent girls from studying is just another way for Satan to oppress and destroy what God deems so valuable - the young women of this country.

In my conversation with the Headmaster, I mentioned that when girls feel devalued and suffer such attacks, they are more prone to "sell" their bodies in sexual activity. Some are forced by parents and others to do so. Some do it voluntarily as a means to earn a bit of money, or to find "love." Few young women here remain pure until marriage. If they are not valued by others, why should they value themselves?

God's Daughters of the Islands

My heart goes out to these young women. I want them to see themselves as God views them - valuable, chosen, cherished, loved - princesses created for a special purpose. While Satan wants only to destroy them, God their Father wants to redeem, restore and liberate them.

Will you join me in prayer for the girls and women of the islands, of Uganda, and of Africa?

Image Source: Microsoft Office Clipart

Pigment Perplexities, Part 2

2011-10-02T13:44:00.000-07:00

(This is the second part in a two-part series. To read part one, click here.)

I desire sincere and honest relationships with Ugandans. However, even with those I feel close to and have spent a lot of time with, I still find myself wondering if they view me differently because of my skin, culture and background. I want to be treated as a friend and as a sister in Christ, not as a "foreigner."

At times I find it frustrating to be seen as "different" simply because I have less pigment in my skin. This "different" may mean being treated very well, almost like a guest of honor in a home or church that you might visit.

Or your "dollar skin" might give a seller, shop owner, or motorcycle driver a heads up that they can charge you a higher price, because obviously if you are white, then you must be "rich." Having a white among a group of Ugandans can actually cost the Ugandans more money if they are traveling, eating out, etc. If a Ugandan is associating with a "mzungu" then it may be assumed they are "rich," too.

Speaking of "pigment perplexities..."

During a recent trip on the boat to the island, I received a "marriage proposal" from a 50-some-year-old-man from an island village. When he learned he couldn't have me because of ministry rules, he asked me to find him a mzungu wife among my friends. With some exasperation I asked him and another Ugandan man sitting nearby why they wanted white wives, when there were beautiful and intelligent Ugandan women. "Because they (white women) make us feel good." I am definitely NOT attracted to that kind of thinking!

Once again, many Ugandan men see white women for only their skin and fail to see that we vary greatly in our personalities, backgrounds, character, etc. One size does not fit all! Honestly, I don't like to be "liked" or treated differently because of my skin color. But it is a reality, which I believe is an effect of our fallen world.

We want to put people on different levels. You're from this country or area? Then you belong here. You're a woman? Well, you fit only there. You only went this far in your education? Well, then, I know where you belong.

We "classify" others by skin color, height, hair (or lack thereof), appearance, background, family, heritage, nationality, language, marital status, disability, educational and professional accomplishments (or the lack of them), proficiency in a skill, etc.

I despise India's caste system, but we can commit the same sin our hearts and minds. How God must hate this.

"For the Lord your God is the God of gods and Lord of lords. He is the great God, the mighty and awesome God, who shows no partiality and cannot be bribed. He ensures that orphans and widows receive justice. He shows love to the foreigners living among you and gives them food and clothing. So you, too, must show love to foreigners, for you yourselves were once foreigners in the land of Egypt." - Deuteronomy 10:17-19

I confess I have committed this sin of partiality - often without even thinking about it. "Partiality" means "A favorable bias or prejudice." I judge the book by the cover, the people by what I see with my eyes. Yet, the physical body is only a shell for the most important part of the person - their soul.

"But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, and easy to be intreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy." - James 3:17

"He doesn't care how great a person may be, and he pays no more attention to the rich than to the poor. He made them all." - Job 34:19

The Bible clearly condemns partiality. God intends for us to honor and respect our fellow human beings, but not to lift up some and despise others. Each person is made in the image of God and therefore has His "stamp of approval."

I created him. I designed her. I loved them so much that I died for them.

Let no one judge what God has called good.

Images Source: Microsoft Office Clipart

Pigment Perplexities, Part 1

2011-09-22T06:41:00.000-07:00

I was so enjoying my time at church. The rain that had threatened to dampen the morning had come and gone, the sun was shining, the walk was enjoyable, and it was good to be with family in Christ as we worshiped our God and heard from His Word while sitting in the fresh air under the trees. It had been a long time since I had been to this church, and it felt good to be back.

Early on in the service a young woman clutching a baby sat down next to me. The woman looked young - probably younger than 20. I introduced myself and asked her name and the baby's too. I am not sure how it happened but she began sharing about the death of the baby's father and how she was left to care for it, though without resources. She wondered what I would do to help her. Later she said the baby cried very little and was good natured. It was as if she was "selling" her baby to me. I am still not sure if this young woman was the mother or not of this dear little girl.

Such questions and pleas are so common for the "mzungus" ("white people") who serve and visit here. I have had other similar conversations in which I am basically asked "What will you do for me?" Ugandans often assume that because we are white we must be "rich" and have access to vast resources. Am I target for requests because of the pigment of my skin?

As I pondered such things on my walk back from church, I wondered if God sometimes feels the same way. That His children only come to Him when they need or want something. We ask for His blessing, His protection, His healing, His provision, His guidance, His ______ - fill in the blank. But do we seek to simply be in His presence, so that we may spend time with Him, so that we may know Him more, not to know His blessings more? Do I go to God only when I am lacking? Do I see Him as my "Sugar Daddy?"

As I thought about this young mother's situation and her misguided request, I was convicted as I reviewed my prayer life. How many times recently had I gone to God with petitions, not praises? With wants and not worship?

"Let all that I am praise the Lord; with my whole heart, I will praise His holy name. Let all that I am praise the Lord; may I never forget the good things He does for me. He forgives all my sins and heals all my diseases. He redeems me from death and crowns me with love and tender mercies.

"Praise the Lord, you angels, you mighty ones who carry out His plans, listening for each of His commands.

"Yes, praise the Lord, you armies of angels who serve Him and do His will!

"Praise the Lord, everything He has created, everything in all His kingdom.

"Let all that I am praise the Lord." - Psalm 103:1-4, 20-22

Our God deserves all praise, glory, honor and worship! May this be the first priority as we enter His presence.

Image Source: Microsoft Office Clipart
Photo Source: http://www.flickr.com/photos/supersonicphotos/4009163139/#

Be Thou...Flexible & Patient

2011-09-13T03:30:00.000-07:00

"If you want to grow, you must be willing to stretch." — Anonymous

If you asked me what qualities are necessary for a missionary to possess, flexibility and patience would be near the top of my list.

I was reminded yesterday of the importance of these qualities in a conversation with a fellow missionary. They shared that plans, affecting multiple people, had to be re-set because of another's changing schedule.

"Be firm on principle but flexible on method." ~ Zig Ziglar

When you live in a different culture, come from a different country and background, speak a different language, work with people with different priorities - flexibility and patience are absolutely necessary.

"Be infinitely flexible and constantly amazed." ~ Jason Kravitz

One of my favorite sayings here in Uganda, is "Hurry up and wait." The boat may leave anywhere between 8:30-9:30 a.m., and a 45-minute journey can stretch into a couple of hours. The meeting you were invited to will likely begin at least an hour later than the announced time. One day the Internet or phone network can work "perfectly," and the next day, they appear "broken." Electrical power nor water are assumed constants - they may or may not be available. Project plans and budgets cannot be set in stone. It seems there are more factors to consider here - weather, family, other relationships, education, understanding (or the lack of it), shortage of resources or manpower, others' plans and ideas, etc. Any one of these things can derail a "plan."

Schedules and expectations have to be fluid in Uganda (and probably in most of Africa) or you will get out of joint very quickly. I am not saying this is bad, and it actually lends a more laid-back lifestyle. But for those of us who are used to a different way of life, it can take some getting used to.

"Thus, flexibility, as displayed by water, is a sign of life. Rigidity, its opposite, is an indicator of death." ~ Anthony Lawlor

My personality loves routine. I like to know what is happening and when. I prefer to have a schedule so I can get the most accomplished. I find comfort and security in these things. I am learning, sometimes painfully, that time and routine are not top priorities in Uganda. I like to laughingly say, "I'm flexible - just don't bend me the wrong way." ; )

"One minute of patience, ten years of peace." ~ Greek Proverb

Patience is another valuable quality, not only on the missionfield, but anywhere. Patience is trusting that God remains in control, when situations or people may seem "off kilter." To lack patience is to lack trust in a sovereign God. I frequently marvel at our Creator's incredible patience as I read the accounts of the Israelite people and their rebellion, captivities, etc. Phew! God has an abundance of patience - not just for His "chosen people," but for you and I, too. You will give up on yourself much sooner than God ever will.

"Patience is not passive; on the contrary, it is active; it is concentrated strength." ~ Edward G. Bulwer-Lytton

Like most character qualities, flexibility and patience have to be tested and stretched to truly grow.

"Patience is the companion of wisdom." ~ Saint Augustine

"My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations; Knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience. But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing. - James 1:2-4 "Patience" in other versions is translated "steadfastness," "perseverance" or "endurance."

"Hope is patience with the lamp lit." ~ Tertullian

This morning I read in my Bible commentary, accompanying Acts 5, that "The purpose of life is to glorify God by building character through truth."

When God is developing our flexibility and patience, it is important to remember these truths: 1. He is good and always brings about good, 2. He knows my situation and is sovereign, 3. His glory is more important than my comfort or happiness.

"Faith is not simply a patience that passively suffers until the storm is past. Rather, it is a spirit that bears things - with resignations, yes, but above all, with blazing, serene hope." ~ Corazon Aquino

My friend Flex, who accompanied me to Uganda, is good picture of flexibility, thus earning him his name. He is made of rubber and he can be pushed and pulled in varying contortions. Yet, he always maintains a smile on his face.

If you are learning the lessons of flexibility and patience - take heart. God remains in control and if you trust Him, He will stretch and strengthen you, molding you into an even greater witness for Him!

"The principle part of faith is patience ~ George MacDonald

Quote Sources: www.finestquotes.com, www.characterjournal.com
Image Source: Microsoft Office Clipart

Hope Grows

2011-09-09T04:18:00.000-07:00

Our God is amazing!

So let me explain the background for my opening. :) I love the spiritual illustrations that can be had from a simple seed. Honestly, I am amazed at how a seed, even those that are about the size of a pin-head, can be planted and grow into something so much bigger - many times the size of the original. This just baffles my mind and makes me reverently thank my Creator for His "amazingness."

And so many times He also "plants" an idea or a thought or an action that grows, and grows and grows.

When by God's prompting I started The Suubi Project in May while home on furlough in the states, I really had no idea where it would go or how it would grow. ("Suubi" means "hope" in Luganda.)

I wanted to help the island secondary school - Lingira Living Hope, and find something to do in my downtime. I have made cards for a number of years and a few years ago began using my photos for the cards.

So The Suubi Project was launched - to raise money for school building projects, to raise awareness of the school and the ministry on the island, to give me "something" to do, and to share my Ugandan photos with folks at home.

By the time I returned in mid-August to Uganda, the "project" had generated $1100 for the school projects! Family, friends, fellow missionaries, supporters, and friends and co-workers of family, bought the cards. I even had a recent request from here in Uganda! :)

What God did with The Suubi Project "seed" amazed me!

Even as I write there is a team of workers at the school. They are building the new girls' "pit latrine," (outhouse).

The boys' dorm, which was not finished when I left the island in April, now has windows, doors and started being used by the boys last term. Now the new pit latrine is underway and there are plans for a new girls' dorm.

The boys' dorm at Lingira Living Hope

So, what is the future of The Suubi Project, now that I am back in Uganda? Well, my mom graciously agreed to continue making the cards. I will continue to receive orders by e-mail and thanks to technology, can easily pass them on to my mom. : )

Since the school's building projects seem to be going along well, I am thinking of changing the project's focus a bit.

The girls' pit latrine being "built." Unfortunately, two monitor lizards already found the bottom of this deep pit.

Earlier this year, Shepherd's Heart International Ministry (SHIM), which I work with, and specifically our Child Development Program, of which I am the "coordinator," teamed up with the school (LLHSS) to begin a new program, with the aim of benefiting more island students. The "cost-sharing" program pays 40% of students' fees, if they or their parents/guardians can pay the other 60% within the first month of the term.

In the past, the school has struggled to "collect" all of the fees in a timely manner and students are sent home again and again, to bring back more tuition. But they also miss valuable class time and their grades can suffer.

The cost-sharing program has been a huge success, with about 90% of the students benefiting from it. However, it was a program begun in faith. When we started it, we did not have a designated funding source, and still do not. We rely on the generosity of sponsors and other givers to SHIM.

So in the future, until God says differently, money raised by The Suubi Project will go to support the cost-sharing program, which is benefiting a number of island and mainland students.

As I have said before, education here in Uganda is a privilege, not a right. Young men and women literally cry and beg to be able to go to school as they know that is a key to a better future. (BTW, check out the article I wrote for my hometown newspaper, The Clatskanie Chief - "Publishing Hope".)

If you haven't seen it already, check out "The Suubi Project" page on this blog (see top, below banner). There you will find photos of the school, students, and the Ugandan photo cards, that are available for purchase. :) Also, The Suubi "Hope" Project is on Facebook, so be sure to stop by, "like" it and say hi, too. And if you would like to promote the "project" on your blog or site, grab the button at the top right of the page. I would be so grateful. :)

Like I said at the beginning of this post, our God is amazing! He can take small, seemingly insignificant things, like a seed, and grow them beyond what we could have ever imagined. Thank you to all who have given to The Suubi Project.

If you would be interested in giving to SHIM, the school or the cost-sharing project specifically, financial gifts can be sent to Global Outreach International, P.O. Box 1, Tupelo, MS, 38802. Please note what the money is designated for. Any contribution, no matter the size, does make a difference. :) Just remember the seed...

"I tell you the truth, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, 'Move from here to there' and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you." - Matthew 17:20

Image credit: Microsoft Office clipart

All that fits...on a boda-boda

2011-09-01T04:46:00.000-07:00

I held my breath and clung tighter to my burden as the driver attempted to gently navigate the speedbumps, potholes and other rough places along the road. My burden? A plastic bag of groceries and a cardboard "crate" of 30 raw eggs. In front with the driver was also my heavy backpack and another plastic sack.

My "crate" of eggs - two cardboard forms, tied together with twine.

I have gained a notorious reputation here for breaking eggs left in my care. Not on purpose, of course. Once while carrying a box of eggs to the Smith home, right before reaching the porch, the bottom of the box fell out, in an untimely release of my precious load. Not all of the eggs broke, but a good number did.

Then another day while carrying a plastic sack of eggs across main street in Jinja, I slipped on the curb and fell with the eggs, resulting in some "fatalities."

The other day, as I precariously sat on the back of the "boda-boda" (motorcycle), with my burden and bound for the boat to the island, I began thinking about this form of transport.

Motorcycles that you can hire for as little as 25 cents to take you from here to there are a very common form of transport in Uganda, as well as in many other African countries. When you don't have your own car, they make getting around pretty easy. They were dubbed boda-bodas as they travel from "border to border." We often just call them "boda" for short.

A friend and I on the back of a boda.

I have shared in other posts how riding on the back of a motorcycle is my favorite way to travel here. It certainly beats being packed with up to 20 others in a public taxi the size of a VW bus. And I love the wind whipping through my hair, how close you feel to your surroundings, and the view that beats any seen from a car or bus.

Just about anywhere you go, especially near a city or village, boda men and their bikes congregate on corners, waiting for their next customer. If they spot you nearby, usually one or two will ask if you need a ride, or honk to indicate their question. You can "hail one" by waving or sometimes simply by raising your eyebrows if you are close enough. (Yes, I have done this before.)

Next you need to negotiate a price. Often there is a set cost for going a particular distance, but some boda men may try and take advantage of "white" or "dollar" skin, as most whites are seen as "rich." Once a price is agreed on, you hop on - either straddling or sitting side saddle on the seat. Then you're off! And hang on! I have had some scary and fast rides, but for the most part I feel safe as the driver navigates the roads.

Taking a photo from the back of a boda.

Bicycles or piki-pikis (peechee-peechees) are another similar way of getting around, though slower than the motorcycles. They were the original "boda-bodas," but have been superseded as motorcycles have become more common and taken over the bulk of the two-wheeled transport business.

Because motorcycles and bicycles are common and fairly inexpensive, people use them for carrying many, many things and not just themselves. I have seen up to three adults riding on the back of a motorcycle. Sometimes a child or two can be added with the driver in the front.

A stack of soda crates, a bedframe perched on end, a bookcase, large sacks of charcoal, boxes and bags of food, chickens, containers of water and more are among the "loads" these two-wheeled vehicles can carry. Sometimes I wonder how they do it and if there is anything they can't carry. And then I can't help but smile when I see yet another type of "cargo" being hauled by a boda. (I am sorry I don't have any photos to show some of these "loads," but will hopefully be able to take some as I have opportunity. Most of the time I don't seem to have my camera handy at these times.)

One thing I have learned from Ugandans is ingenuity and "where's there's a will, there's a way." They can pack the most people and the most things in a taxi or on a boda-boda. Usually every bit of space is used.

My eggs and I made it safely to the boat the other day and across the lake to the island. When I reached the island SHIM base, I learned only one egg of the 30 had "escaped." The remaining 29 were still in their crate, and had fared the journey well. Perhaps number 30 is enjoying a "swim" at the bottom of the boat.

For some interesting reading, check out the Wikipedia article on boda-bodas, http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Boda-boda.

This photo really has nothing to do with my post, but I thought it was funny. This boat, bound for Lukoma Island, was tied at the port when I left for Lingira Island. I like its phrases: "No smoking" and"Keep the time." I have never seen anyone smoke on a boat (smoking is actually pretty rare in Uganda). "Keep the time" means exactly that - don't be late. :)

Assumptions and Impossibilities - Not in God's Vocabulary!

2011-08-27T23:24:00.000-07:00

Rembrandt's "The Return of the Prodigal Son"

Don't take it for granted that what you see or hear is really reality. Be careful not to make a judgment without knowing all of the facts. Never assume.

This was a lesson I learned repeatedly as a newspaper reporter. Never assume someone's name is spelled the way you think it is. Never assume so-and-so meant this when he said that. When you are going for the facts, don't rely on opinion or speculation. "Assume" means to "take for granted or without proof." So where am I going with all of this?

This "never assume" lesson was brought home again this week with two students whom I have interacted with through Shepherd's Heart's sponsorship program.

Earlier this year we cut off Gerald's sponsorship. An island orphan, Gerald had been helped with his school fees by Karina and then SHIM since 2004. But in recent years we saw his life taking a downward course. We wanted to help, and we tried, but it seemed Gerald only grew harder, increasingly argumentative, and more and more negative. It was as if there was an aura of death and self-destruction around him. His choices made it unethical for us to continue supporting him.

When we released Gerald from the program, we helped for the last time with part of his school fees, as he enrolled in a school in Kampala. We didn't know where his path would lead, but we felt it would likely not be a good outcome. It was like releasing the prodigal.

When I saw him on the island this week for the first time in a number of months, I expected the same old Gerald. And I found myself inwardly bracing for a debate or a slew of negative comments.

It was with surprise and initial doubt that I learned it was definitely not the same old Gerald who had paid us a visit. While at school, God had used people and circumstances to bring him to the point of acknowledging his need for a Savior. And the supernatural work of transformation has begun. In his own words, Gerald has left alcohol and vulgar language. He is no longer seeking recognition or approval from man, but is waiting on God for His words of guidance and divine truth.

We had given up on Gerald. We assumed he would only continue barreling down his self-destructive path. But God did not forget Gerald. And He didn't assume the prodigal would not return home.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

It was a question I asked to make small talk with David. We were trying to fill time as we waited to conduct some business in the SHIM office yesterday afternoon. I like David. He is a good student, and a well-behaved and polite young man. He is quiet, so though he is one of our sponsored students, I admit I don't know him as well as some of the others.

"David, when did you become born again?"

His answer to my question took me aback.

"This year."

In surprise I said I had assumed he was born again because he showed such good behavior.

David said that although his parents are Christians and his dad a pastor, he had not received salvation before January 2nd of this year. My surprise turned to joy as I realized what this shy boy was sharing with me - He was a true follower, and no longer a pretender.

He shared that the fear that had once gripped his heart when called upon to drum in church, or when given opportunity to testify, was gone. With salvation came a freedom from such fear. David now drums and testifies in church without fearing. God is doing a transformational work in the life of this shy young man.

The lesson learned:

I assumed Gerald's hard heart was impenetrable, and his death-bent course nearly unalterable.

I assumed sweet, compliant David had been living as a Christian for years.

God did not assume - He didn't have to as He knew the truth about these young men's hearts and their paths. The Heavenly Father recognized each son was a prodigal at the core. And it was with great joy and love that He welcomed them home.

A second lesson learned this week is never assume that what you are investing in another individual is for naught. If God asks you to pray for, give to, encourage, challenge or admonish someone, but there seems to be little effect or fruit, don't assume it is in vain. Seeds take time to grow. Be obedient and let God bring the fruit in His time.

As Christians we should never assume when we serve an all-powerful, awesome, loving and sovereign God, whose ways are far above our own.

"For nothing is impossible with God." - Luke 1:37

Kulikayo!

2011-08-22T06:48:00.000-07:00

The view toward the lake from the front veranda of my "home" on Lingira Island.

It has been like music to my ears to hear "Kulikayo!" and "Welcome back!" in the last few days since I arrived on Lingira Island - my second home. "Kulikayo" (pronounced kuh-lee-keye-o) is Luganda for "welcome back."

After not riding in a boat since I left Uganda, I headed to the port Friday afternoon. Within a minute of arriving at Masesee, the rain came and I ducked under a tin-roofed building to wait out the storm. I was pleasantly surprised to meet one of our sponsored students there who was also headed to Lingira, so I chatted with her as we waited.

After the rain stopped, I decided to board the board, which was not a wise decision. It has been only a handful of times that rain has caught me while on a boat, so I thought it was humorous that on my first trip to the island since my furlough, the rain found me. Thank the Lord for black tarps to hide under and kind people who made sure my bags stayed mostly dry. : )

The cost for the trip to Lingira has gone up about 20 cents since I left, so I am thinking the increase went toward the free shower I received. : ) "Wet Season Special - Fare to Lingira Island - Includes Free Shower."

Thankfully, the rain did not follow us the entire 15-mile trek to the island and partway we were able to come out from under tarps to enjoy the warm air and the pleasant views.

Upon setting foot on Lingira, I was graciously welcomed by some of the secondary teachers (who I was surprised to see since the school is on holiday), a couple of students, members of my SHIM family and other friends.

At left, the new student garden at the secondary school.

Below, sweet potato mounds in the student garden.

Friday evening was topped off when a "film" was shown at SHIM, with the teachers, some of their family members, and other friends as our guests. Buttery popcorn was served and the lights were extinguished in anticipation of a movie featuring incredible animals created by our awesome God. It was a joy to hear and see the Ugandans' reactions to the creatures projected on the wall, and the amazing features and abilities God has given them. I am sure they had never laid eyes on some of the critters, like salmon, penguins, polar bears, an Australian lizard and others.

I am happy to see how the SHIM base on the island is thriving - especially the gardens! I grabbed my camera this afternoon and thought I would share with you what is growing around here (aside from David and Johnathan - who are incredibly cute!)

Oranges! We have five orange trees on our island property.

Passion fruit - it makes a delicious juice.

It was pure delight to be back in the island church Sunday morning. The lively and joyful worship was refreshing and the messages seemed so fitting. The people also graciously extended me a hand of welcome.

The Smith family enjoying the Sunday worship service.

Sunday afternoon found Grace and Agnes busy roasting "sim-sim," sesame seeds, above, while Mama O, below, "pounded" millet to prepare it for grinding.

On Monday, a friend, Emma, with a little help from David, helped prepare a nursery bed to plant some of the seeds I brought from the U.S. I have never been a "green thumb," but I am excited to try again. : )

Ready for seeds!

It is good to be back on Lingira Island - my second home. : )

I'm Here!

2011-08-15T05:38:00.000-07:00

Yes, I am in Uganda!

After good flights from Newark to Amsterdam, from Amsterdam to Kigali, Rwanda, and Rwanda to Uganda - I arrived at the Entebbe airport at about 10 p.m. Friday night. Amanda walked up to the exit door just in time to see me. : )

Saturday morning was the wedding of Chief and Gloria, who at one time worked with Shepherd's Heart as our account and secretary, respectively. I was quickly reminded that I was back in Uganda when it took Amanda and I about two hours because of traffic to go approximately 20 miles from Entebbe to Kampala where the wedding was held. We showed up at the church for the last seven minutes of the wedding. At least we got to see the bride and groom exit the church! : )

The happy couple - Augusto "Chief" and Gloria

After enjoying pizza with the Smith family, we attended the reception and enjoyed visiting with SHIM family and other friends, and hearing live music and the "speeches." Every special occasion here includes speeches. : ) Unfortunately, we had to leave right before the big meal was served, but all in all it was a fun day.

Johnathan - a smiley little fellow - gazing at his daddy

David driving the shopping cart. Not sure why he closed his eyes, but he did when I asked him to smile. : )

Two beautiful ladies - Amanda and Karina - my dear sisters, friends and co-workers in Christ. And, oh yes, Johnathan is pictured, too. In between the wedding and the reception we enjoyed a pizza lunch at a Kampala mall.

After spending another night in Entebbe, Amanda and I headed to Jinja and arrived mid-day today (Sunday). Now we are enjoying the rest of our day of rest. : )

Thank you to all who prayed for a safe journey. It was very safe and I even enjoyed an empty seat next to me for extra stretching room for sleeping from Amsterdam to Rwanda. : )

I will be spending the next few days getting re-established and reconnecting with various people before likely heading to the island before the weekend.

Thank you again to those who prayed!

Me at the wedding reception in Kampala.

(Note: This was sent out yesterday in an e-mail update, so sorry if you already read it. If you would like to receive my e-mail and/or snail-mail updates, write a comment. I will read it, but won't publish it.)

Upheld Hands

2011-08-10T13:25:00.000-07:00

(I sent this out today as my e-mail update, so I am sorry if you already read it. If you would like to receive my e-mail updates, drop me a line at reporterruthie@yahoo.com.)

“Whenever Moses held up his hand, Israel prevailed, and whenever he lowered his hand, Amalek prevailed. But Moses’ hands grew weary, so they took a stone and put it under him, and he sat on it, while Aaron and Hur held up his hands, one on one side, and the other on the other side. So his hands were steady until the going down of the sun. And Joshua overwhelmed Amalek and his people with the sword.” – Exodus 17:11-13

What an interesting method to wage a war. When Moses’ hands were up, the Israelite army prevailed, but when they fell, the opposing country gained an upper hand, so to speak. And when Moses became tired, Aaron and Hur sat on either side of him, to hold up his hands. And by the end of the day, God’s people had won.

This passage of scripture came to mind the other day as I thought about returning to Uganda and the many people who have been so supportive, both while I have been in Uganda and at home.

My furlough was great and I was blessed to spend quality time with my family, friends, church family and many others. Thank you to all who blessed me while in the states! I was so refreshed and encouraged by your expressions of love, care and support. I was also excited to share about Uganda and what God is doing there with several churches and anyone who wanted to listen. : )

Tomorrow my sister Leah will drive me from Pennsylvania, where I have been visiting her for a few days, to Newark, N.J. to catch my flight to Uganda. I arrive in Uganda about 10:15 p.m. Friday or about noon Pacific time. : )

I am excited to return and see my SHIM family there, as well as friends and others I have missed for 3+ months. I am excited for the next season that God has planned, both in my life and in the ministry on the islands. I am excited to try some new things that God has put on my heart.

Ministry is about teamwork as evidenced in the Biblical story above. We need each other, that is how God designed it. He used the illustration of the body for a reason - we are all connected, we depend on one another, we function better together, and we are united under Jesus – the Head.

We need to hold up one another’s hands as we fight the battle to spread God’s light and truth. I need you and you need me.

Thank you to each of you who have held up my hands by your financial support, your faithful prayers, your words of encouragement and other forms of love. I want to do the same for you, so please feel free to continue sharing your life with me so I can uphold you, too.

Someday the battle will be won and we will celebrate together forever. Yay! Won’t that be great?!

May God bless each of you wherever you may be serving Him. Your continued prayers are much appreciated as I travel in the next couple of days. I look forward to staying in touch – from Uganda!

“Rather, speaking the truth in love, we are to grow up in every way into Him who is the head, in to Christ, from whom the whole body, joined and held together by every joint with which it is equipped, when each part is working properly, makes the body grow so that it builds itself up in love.” – Ephesians 4:15-16

Undeserved Blessings

2011-08-07T14:10:00.000-07:00

Me next to a replica of the Liberty Bell inside Wisconsin's capitol building in downtown Madison.

I know blessings usually are undeserved, which is why they are called blessings. But, I was the beneficiary of some recent blessings that I truly felt were undeserved and some caught me by surprise.

I almost started crying. Not sad, goodbye tears, but grateful tears. Thursday morning was busy as I took care of last minute details at home, weighed luggage and shifted items around to make sure all three of my bags were at or below 50 pounds. Then there was the hour or so drive to the Portland airport. Because I had three heavy bags and two heavy carry-ons, my dad dropped my mom and I off at the curb while he went to park. After grabbing two luggage carts, I looked up to see a man who had seen our dilemma graciously lifting the bulky bags on to the carts. He recognized a need and stepped in to meet it. I was so grateful that I almost began crying. What an unexpected blessing.

With the three check-in bags, I knew I would be spending a bit of money. Most domestic airlines are now charging for check-ins and the bag limit is usually 2, with the cost for a third considerably more. But between carrying my own things and things for others in Uganda, I had needed to pack 3.

When I mentioned to the kind ticket agent that I was flying to Uganda Aug. 12, she immediately worked on waiving the fees for my first two bags (hooray!). She then patiently waited as we weighed luggage, shifted items and then re-weighed. I was so, so grateful for her kindness and patience.

Madison Scenes: Top photos - inside the capitol building; lower left, the capitol as seen from a downtown rooftop terrace; lower middle, one of the many lakes around Madison; lower right, a five-piece brass band performing near the Capitol Farmer's Market on Saturday.

I met Amanda and Jessica during my first visit to Uganda, from October 2006-March 2007. They were living on the Lingira Island YWAM base and were neighbors to Karina and I since we all lived in the same building. We four American single gals made lots of good memories together. And they became very dear friends. I believe Amanda and Jess are a key reason that I did not suffer from much homesickness as expected and I enjoyed that first visit so much. Almost three years after I last saw them in 2008 (when I flew to Wisconsin for Jess' wedding), they hosted me again for a few days this weekend.

Adorable Olivia - daughter of Chris and Amanda (She's even cuter in person!)

Food, laughter, lots of fun and good sharing and fellowship marked my visit here in Wisconsin. Oh, and did I mention good food - like fried cheese curds? ; )

Amanda and Jess love Uganda and the islands and are continuing to share that love with their husbands, families and friends.

I feel so refreshed after my time with these good friends and I am so very thankful for the undeserved blessing of special relationships. God knows what we need, and always bestows above and beyond what we could imagine.

At left - Me with Chris and Amanda

Now I am excited to hop on a plane to Pennsylvania and visit my dear sister Leah for a few days. Yay! I will try and keep you posted on my further adventures! : )

What undeserved blessing have you received lately?

At right - Me with Jessica and Ben

Making the Days Count

2011-08-03T08:50:00.000-07:00

Yesterday when I was struggling with thoughts about leaving for Uganda and being gone for sooo long away from family and friends, I received a timely word of encouragement.

From my Marmee. : )

In a Facebook note, she said, "God has a calling on your life, Winkers!! I always like to think that even tho' the miles separate us in this life, we get to spend an eternity together!! Yea!! Go with God, Ruthie, and love all those precious folks for us over there in Uganda - being the hands of feet of the Lord!!"

"We get to spend an eternity together..." - I so much love that thought! The year and a half or so that I will be gone is less than a blink compared to the forever of eternity.

Last week at church camp, a friend used a powerful illustration to demonstrate the quickness (not sure that is a word) of life. He sprayed a mist in the air and after only 5-10 seconds, the vapor that had been clearly visible was untraceable.

As if God was reinforcing the message to my heart, my Bible reading today was in Psalm 90.

Verse 12 popped out at me:

"Teach us to number our days aright, that we may gain a heart of wisdom."

Or in the NLT:

"Teach us to realize the brevity of life, so that we may grow in wisdom."

And I love what my NLT commentary had to say:

"We number our years, not our days, but all of us have to live a day at a time, and we do not know how many days we have left. A successful life is composed of successful days that honor the Lord."

It is interesting that the Eternal God gave us bite-size pieces of time to work with - days, weeks, months, when a day is as a thousand years to Him. How we spend our days determines how we spend our lives. Each day is an opportunity to honor and glorify our Heavenly Father. And in a sense, no amount of time nor any seemingly "small" task is unimportant.

So whatever God has called you to today, do it for Him. Each day is important. And remember, someday we will get to spend a forever, never-ending glorious eternity with our Awesome God and the family of God. Let's get our work done!

P.S. Today is my final full day at home and it will be filled with packing and preparations. I fly out tomorrow (Thursday) morning and go to Wisconsin for a few days to see friends and supporters, before flying to Pennsylvania on Sunday to visit Leah. I leave the states on Aug. 11, from New Jersey and land in Uganda late Aug. 12. Your prayers would be so appreciated!

Counting Down the Days...

2011-07-25T09:40:00.000-07:00

Phew, there are so many things to think about when one is preparing to go, which is the main reason why you haven't heard much from me lately.

Alot of last night and this morning was spent packing. Clothes - check. Toothpaste - check. Pillow - check. Camera - check. Sleeping bag - check. Wait a minute...sleeping bag? I'm taking a sleeping bag to Uganda? No, but I am taking it to camp. ; )

Today marks the first day of one of my favorite weeks in the whole year, in fact I scheduled my furlough to make sure I would be home for it this year. After reading reports and seeing pictures of everyone's great time at church camp last year, and feeling the most homesick of any other time while in Uganda, I KNEW I could not miss another church camp.

A full week of tons of fellowship, fun, teaching, singing, games and food are just some of the highlights of camp. So I am going to scoot, throw my sleeping bag in the car and head off for a memorable week. I'll post some pictures when I get back. : )

Oh, and it is about 10 days until I leave Oregon (Aug. 4) on my journey back to Uganda. And I would so appreciate your continued prayers! Thank you!

Publishing Hope

2011-07-15T12:04:00.000-07:00

The following story was published in this week's edition of The Clatskanie Chief, my hometown weekly newspaper. I worked at The Chief for 11 years before I became a missionary.

The piece was printed in The Trident column - the space reserved for comments by the editor, Deborah Steele Hazen. (Her initials follow the "Editor's Note" at the beginning.) While I wrote hundreds of article during my tenure at the paper, this is only the second time to have my writing featured in The Trident column, and I consider it quite an honor.

God used my years at The Chief to grow me up in a lot of ways, and prepare me for the future He had in mind. : )

(Editor’s Note: Before departing Clatskanie to serve as a missionary on Lingira Island in Uganda, Ruth Howard served as a reporter/photographer for The Clatskanie Chief for 11 years. Currently back in Clatskanie visiting with family and friends, we asked Ruth to write a column about her mission. - DSH)

Ugandan Students Find Hope for Brighter Futures

by Ruth E. Howard

Guest Columnist

At times I am without words.

Their stories, circumstances and backgrounds are foreign to me, even though I hear them often repeated.

Rejection by family, hunger that forces unwanted decisions, crippling sickness, anxiety over the next meal or the next term’s school fees – the students face these fears daily. The burdens are greater than their young shoulders should have to bear.

When they come to me for counsel, I often feel I cannot find the right words.

Poverty seen from a distance can make you feel helpless to help, but when you observe it daily, it can be very overwhelming.

More than 95 percent of the population of the small Ugandan island I live on struggles below the “poverty level.” It is no comparison to what westerners define as “below the poverty line.”

Yet when circumstances seem the bleakest, that is when hopes shines the brightest. Even a candle’s small flame can disperse a room’s cloaking darkness.

Ugandan students are finding hope and brighter horizons. Half a world away, in a place where education is often not valued or may be out of reach for various reasons, students are discovering new paths to broader futures.

A Second Home in Uganda

For most of my life I never dreamed of missions work in Africa, though now I can’t imagine my life apart from Uganda. A resident of Clatskanie for more than 22 years, I found a second home on a small island in this East African country.

I am serving under Global Outreach International, based in Tupelo, Miss., and with Shepherd’s Heart International Ministry (SHIM). A multi-faceted ministry based on Lingira Island, Uganda, SHIM was co-founded by Karina (Thomas) Smith, a good friend of mine who is also formerly of Clatskanie. I feel privileged to have witnessed the birth of Shepherd’s Heart during my first visit to Uganda, from October 2006-March 2007.

Leaving the states in January 2010, I flew to Uganda to spend a year, which extended into nearly 16 months. I came back to Oregon May 1 for a three-month furlough and will return to Uganda in mid-August.

In my time in southern Uganda, I found my heart stirred and drawn to the students with whom I interact almost daily. These young men and women attend Lingira Living Hope Secondary School (LLHSS), a private, Christian-based institution - only a few-minutes walk from where I live and work at SHIM. I love the school and the bright hope it represents to the students and to the islands.

Lingira Living Hope and SHIM are found near Kyoya (pronounced “Choy ya”) village on Lingira Island - a small island in the northern region of Lake Victoria. Lingira is one of 52 islands in the Buvuma Island chain - the second largest chain on the lake. Lake Victoria, which empties into the Nile River near Jinja - the city nearest me, is the second largest freshwater lake in the world. More than 3000 islands are on the lake, which is shared by Uganda, Tanzania and Kenya. It is safe to say several million people live on the lake.

LINGIRA LIVING HOPE SECONDARY SCHOOL, pictured above, is making education a reality for students of remote islands in southern Uganda. A former Chief reporter, Ruth Howard, works with Lingira Living Hope and its students in Bible studies, computer classes and more. The school is located on Lingira Island where Ruth recently spent 16 months until coming back to Clatskanie in May. She will return to Lingira Island in August.

A Turning Tide

The island areas of Uganda are unique. Few call them “home,” fondly referring instead to the mainland villages of their birth. Consequently, change and development are difficult to implement and even slower to be embraced. The islanders consist of refugees who fled from conflicts and wars elsewhere, criminals, or those simply looking for work in the once-thriving fishing trade.

While schools can be found on nearly every block in Uganda’s cities and larger towns, they are rare on the Buvuma Islands, especially those for secondary school students. So when Lingira Living Hope began in February 2006 it was like the dawning of a new hope for the islands.

Distance and money have kept island students from attending mainland schools, and the idea of earning money today rather than investing in an ongoing education has diverted girls and boys from continuing past the primary level. Young men opt instead to become fishermen and the girls are often married off or enlisted to help at home.

But the tide is turning. The nearby Lingira Primary School saw an increase from eight students in its top class in 2006 to more than 100 in 2010. Many of those students then advance to the island secondary school. Education is now an achievable reality.

“I thought I was in heaven!”

Even before I officially met Suzan, I was captivated by her beaming and ever-present smile.

Her ready grin gave the appearance that she was always happy. As a newly-sponsored student through SHIM, I took time to get to know Suzan and learned it was gratitude that fueled her joy.

From Namiti, an island three hours beyond Lingira, Suzan was the top performing girl among more than 100 area students.

Though her grades would have made Suzan welcome in any school, it was money that kept her from studying. Despite her family’s best efforts, they could not afford to send Suzan to secondary school.

“God, you can answer my prayers, please answer me,” Suzan fervently prayed one evening after being sent home from school once again for a lack of fees. When an aunt called the next morning to inform Suzan of a sponsorship to attend Lingira Living Hope, Suzan responded ecstatically, “I thought I was in heaven!” She describes the school as the “best thing I have seen since I was born.”

Once an Orphan, Soon a Teacher

He was left a young orphan and then as a teenager was rejected for his Christian faith by his Muslim polygamous family. Yet a difficult past has not tempered Timothy’s desire to help others.

After finishing at the island school in 2008 and taking two more years of school elsewhere, equivalent to a junior college level, Timothy was invited back to Lingira this year by the school’s headmaster. After teaching some science classes and assisting with “Scripture Union” - a weekly Christian worship service and Bible study - Timothy believes God is calling him to be a teacher.

Having never before considered the profession, Timothy seems surprised himself that God would plant such a desire in his heart. Yet, his compassion for students much like himself is stirring Timothy to attend a teachers’ training college, and someday return to officially teach at the island school.

Timothy has tasted freedom and hope in his relationship with Jesus Christ and in his continuing education, and wants to share them with students who need the same.

I am inspired by the stories of Suzan, Timothy and others. And I am challenged to continue to pray, teach, serve and give as I interact with students like them. It is a joy to mentor them in Bible studies, computer classes and in other settings.

INTERACTING WITH UGANDAN STUDENTS like Lovinsa, at left, brings much joy and satisfaction to Ruth Howard, at right, formerly of Clatskanie. Ruth is working as a missionary with Shepherd’s Heart International Ministry in Uganda.

Education Not the Ultimate Answer

While I love Lingira Living Hope and the change it is kindling on the islands, I know education is not the ultimate answer to the needs of this disadvantaged area.

Nor do I believe that knowledge holds the key for Uganda, the rest of Africa or the entire world. It is only a vehicle to spread the “living hope” - God’s light and truth.

I and the other Christians with whom I work, both American and Ugandan, understand that poverty extends beyond the lack of basic necessities.

Ministry is not only about feeding starving stomachs, but even more importantly about feeding starving souls. More than anything, I want to see the island students find true hope and freedom in Jesus Christ - the Way, the Truth, and the Life (John 14:6).

Once known as dark and “forgotten” places, the islands are being lit and changed by Christ’s transformational light. Their darkness is being dispersed by the increasing “candlelight” of ministries like SHIM.

The various ministry branches of Shepherd’s Heart - water and sanitation, discipleship and evangelism, family ministry, women’s craft initiatives, economic development, child and educational development, and agriculture - touch all aspects of island life. (For more about SHIM and its growing work on the Buvuma Islands, visit www.shimuganda.com.)

When the students’ stories and needs overwhelm me and I am left without words, I am reminded of God’s incredible and unchanging love for them and the others of the Ugandan islands. God sees and cares for individuals throughout the world. I rest in this unchanging truth.

To learn more about my time in Uganda and to continue following my work there, visit my blog: www.journeyoffaith11.blogspot.com.

The Suubi Project Looks to “Build” Hope on Island

by Ruth E. Howard

After housing staff and students in “temporary” and inadequate mud buildings for several years, Lingira Living Hope is in the process of constructing permanent concrete buildings.

More dorms and pit latrines are needed at the school.

The price for building on the island is more expensive than in other parts of Uganda, because of the cost to transport supplies over the lake.

To help fund this expensive endeavor, I have launched what I am calling “The Suubi Project.” I have made notecard sets using photographs I took in Uganda, and am offering them for sale with all proceeds benefitting the building project. The photos feature animals, flowers, sunsets and other scenes of Uganda.

“Suubi” means “hope” in Luganda - one of Uganda’s primary languages.

I believe that with more adequate facilities, more students can find hope of an education at Lingira Living Hope.

To see samples of the notecards, visit the “The Suubi Project” page on my blog www.journeyoffaith11.blogspot.com, find “The Suubi ‘Hope’ Project” page on Facebook, or send an e-mail to reporterruthie@yahoo.com.

Never Done that Before!

2011-07-12T17:06:00.000-07:00

There is a "first time" for everything, so they say. I just didn't realize some of my "firsts" would take place in Uganda - a country so far from home.

Yesterday I was thinking about some of the things I experienced for the first time in Uganda. Here is what I came up with:

- My first trip to Uganda, October 2006-March 2007, was my first time outside the U.S., except for one day in Canada in 1991, which hardly counts.

With island children during my first trip to Uganda.

- It was my first time to be away from home for any length of time.

- It was also my first international flight that took me to Uganda. My return to the U.S. in March 2007 was my first time to fly alone.

- I had my first ice cream on an airplane as I flew back to Africa in January 2010. Though it was served at the equivalent of breakfast time, I ate it because I didn't know the next time I would enjoy chocolate ice cream.

- It was my first time to live on an island or in a place without running water and electricity.

- In that visit four years ago, I used an Internet "cafe" for the first time.

- It was my first introduction to "flash drives" as I kept seeing people with these "sticks" hanging around their necks.

Me on a boda-boda

- I had my first motorcycle ride in 2006 in Uganda. Boy, was it scary as I perched side-saddle on the seat behind the driver, with a too-heavy backpack on my back and held on for dear life. I thought the driver was going way too fast and too close to other apparatus on the road. Now I love motorcyle rides and they are my favorite way to travel in Uganda! I love the wind whipping through my hair and being able to see the passing scenery better than you could from a vehicle. By the way, this type of transport is called boda-boda (pronounced "bo-duh, bo-duh") and supposedly comes from the fact that they go from "border to border."

- I had my first tailor-made dress in Uganda. There it can be less expensive or equal to having a dress made for you, compared to buying a new one in a store. And it is fun because you get to design it!

- I bought my first high heels. To go with another tailor-made dress for a wedding of one of the island teachers. : )

April 2010 - Amanda and I wearing our tailor-made dresses and preparing to attend a wedding.

- Okay, so this isn't necessarily a first, but I painted my toenails on a regular basis during my recent stay there. Prior to going to Uganda, I could probably count on one hand the numbers of times my toenails had been painted.

- I had my first ever pedicure - on my 30th birthday - in Uganda. I always shied away from them because I know how extremely ticklish I am. I survived and enjoyed the first pedicure, but the second one was quite different. I had a hard time sitting still as it seemed my ticklish nerves were right under the surface!

- Speaking of birthdays, my 30th was my first-ever birthday to be celebrated away from family. But, it was certainly a very special and memorable one. (Thank you, Amanda!)

A collage of my birthday activities - breakfast, pedicure and manicure, "Crazy" golf, a delicious lunch, swimming and a surprise dinner with dear friends at Ling-Lings in Jinja.

- Okay, not quite another first, but I wore sandals and flip-flops almost all the time in Uganda. This is the girl who rarely wore sandals in the U.S., except for in the summer and at one time, disliked flip-flops (didn't like something rubbing my toes). I also was not one who previously enjoyed going barefoot, even in my own house. Well, I always go barefoot inside at the island SHIM base. It is part cultural and partly to keep the floor cleaner. : ) Now I go barefoot all the time at home. : )

- I enjoyed my first cooked bananas. There are many different kind of banana varieties in Uganda, and matoke is one of the most common. It is not very sweet and is prepared by boiling it for several hours. It is usually served with some kind of sauce. I particularly enjoy matoke when it has the consistency of mashed potatoes.

- I saw wild animals, like lions, monkeys, hippos and others outside of cages on a safari in December 2010. See videos on my "video" page for a close-up look and check out my blog post "When I in awesome wonder..."

- I started a blog when I knew I was going back to Uganda, thus the genesis of "Journey of Faith."

December 26, 2006 - Karina and I (Yes, we officially celebrated Christmas the day after - on "Boxing Day." It was for no reason other than we were too busy to observe Christmas on the actual day.)

- It was the first time I ever celebrated Christmas away from home, family and friends. But, I did get to observe it in December 2006 with dear friends, Karina, Amanda D. and Jessica (all from the U.S.).

- For the first time, I shared a room with someone other than my sister and long-time roommate Leah. The first was Karina, and then Amanda. : )

Amanda and I wearing our matching tailored dresses.

- For the first time I rode a bicycle and was not the one pedaling. Piki-pikis (pronounced "pee-chee, pee-chees") are another way to travel in Uganda. Hop on the back of a bicycle and pay just a few hundred shillings (usually less than 50 cents) to get from here to there. Just don't take one if you are in a hurry. :) (Okay, I take that back. There was a time when I was a younger when I was just too exhausted to continue on a family bike ride. So my dad attached a bungee cord to my bike and pulled me along.)

Me preaching in our island church. Brainard, a dear friend, was translating.

- I preached my first sermon in Uganda. It was in my home church in the Kyoya village on Lingira Island. I think the topic was about as we look to Jesus, we are changed. I have preached several times since then and taught Sunday School. Being instant in season and out is so important there. One time I was given all of five minutes' notice before teaching the youth Sunday School class.

- Living in Uganda it was my first time to not be able to drink water from the tap, and strictly to drink purified, boiled or bottled water.

- In Uganda, specifically on the island, I learned to take "bucket baths" - taking a basin of water into a shower area and using a cup as the dipper. : )

- In Uganda, I learned a foreign language, aside from some American sign language a few years before my first trip.

- In Uganda I cooked for the first time over something other than a stove or campfire. Cooking over charcoal stoves is a challenge, so I usually leave that to others. A two-burner gas stove is a luxury on the island.

Late 2006 - Making peanut butter balls over a one-burner propane stove.

- I learned to really dance in Uganda - well, sorta. : )

- In April I had a major first and a chance to face one of my biggest fears. Despite my life-long anxiety over water, I went whitewater rafting on the Nile. And, I loved it and would go again in a heartbeat. : ) I will not, however, be facing my fear of heights and go bungee-jumping.

April 2011 - Whitewater rafting on the Nile River

- In Uganda, it was the first time I realized God was calling me to be a missionary. It was never something I dreamed of or longed for, but God has His ways of bringing us to where He wants us to be and causing us to be truly fulfilled in that place. Now I cannot imagine my life apart from Uganda.

- In Uganda I made my first friends of a different nationality. Now they are family to me.

Okay, so I am sure there are more, but these are the "firsts" that came to mind. I am so grateful to the Lord for the opportunity to experience a different county, a different culture, a different way of life. There are challenges, but the opportunities, blessings and adventures outshine any difficulties.

I am not naturally an adventurous, spontaneous risk-taker, so it took God putting me so far out of my comfort zone to really learn to experience life in a much-fuller way. I am so, so thankful!

So, what have been some of your recent "firsts"?

One of My Most Favorite People in the World!

2011-07-07T17:10:00.000-07:00

I can't remember a time in my life in which she was not a part of it. Folks have asked if we are twins, while some have even questioned if we are sisters. I asked my aunt the other day if my sis' and I resembled each other at all. She admittedly said no.

We are pretty different in personality, too. She is methodical and patient. I have the "get-it-done-as-fast-as-possible" attitude and don't have as much patience. Leah is naturally a planner and I am learning to become one. She is neat and tidy and I have "pile-it" programs on my desk, the floor, in the cupboard, etc. Leah being a mercy is the family peacemaker and dislikes conflict. I don't like conflict, but have been known to share my opinion too freely. As a teacher, I like facts and want the story straight. She is an extrovert and LOVES to have people around. I am an introvert and love blocks of time by myself. She is a talker, I am a writer. She is a self-sacrificing server and I am learning from her example.

Though we are so different, we do find much in common.

Leah is my only sibling and my best friend. She was home in June for 12 days. It was the first time we had been together since October 2009. I would never have dreamed as we grew up - and did nearly everything together - that someday we would live 1000s of miles apart on different continents and have virtually separate lives, with different focuses and ministries.

But time nor distance can separate the hearts of sisters. I am blessed to share my sis' with others and proud that God is using her in such incredible ways. I just thought I would share with y'all just how much she means to me - hence this post. :) (BTW, for those of you who don't know - Leah works at Mt. Zion International School of Ministry in Pennsylvania. She graduated from Mt. Zion as valedictorian of her class in 2007 and has been on staff since then.)

When we were younger, it was tradition every one to two years for my mom to take us, in matching outfits, to a photo studio. Those photos are now scattered around the house. I just thought I would share a few with you, as well as some other less formal shots. :)

1983 - Our first professional photo together. Leah refused to smile, so the photographer was doing everything to make her crack a grin - even, as my mom says, bouncing balls off her head. In later years, Leah was much more cooperative. I believe she was probably around 2 and I was 3.

1983

March 1985 - I think we had just had an argument.

My little sister wishing me well on my first day of kindergarten - Sept. 1985.

1985 - She hasn't stopped smiling for photos since. :)

1986?

1987

Angels in the Christmas Program (1986 or 1987?)

Who's taller? 1991 - Leah has been taller than me for sooo long. The photographer set up the photo on the right, and then my mom kindly asked if we could stage one where I was taller. Presently, we are only a half-inch apart in height. Yes, she is still taller. :)

Various years. Notice that between 1993 (top left) and 1994 (top right) we had our long hair cut.

Singing with Mommy at Mayger's Family Camp. (Not sure what Daddy is doing, but I am sure it was helpful.)

2000 - Leah's graduation photo

2000 - My graduation photo. Yes, we graduated together, though we were two years apart in school. We were blessed to participate in a homeschool graduation with four other graduates. This is just one of life's milestones that Leah and I have shared together - baptisms, driver's permit and licenses, GEDs, and more. I wouldn't have chosen to share them with anyone else!

Father's Day 2011 - Indian Beach, Oregon Coast

We may not look alike or have identical personalities, but I am so grateful I share so many other things with my dear Leah - our family, friends, our faith, experiences, memories, curly hair ; ), and that we are sisters and best friends.

I love you so much, Leah Joy! You have brought incredible joy to my life!

There is just something about...

2011-07-05T11:57:00.000-07:00

...celebrating July 4th in your hometown. In the 22+ years I have lived in Clatskanie, I have missed only one July 4th celebration. That was last year when I was in Uganda and I celebrated America's independence on a tropical island with a group of other Americans by roasting marshmallows indoors over a big charcoal stove and making our own "fireworks" with confetti poppers. : )

After missing this big holiday in my hometown, this year's Heritage Days celebration seemed all the more special. It was absolutely perfect weather - bright sunshine and blue skies. And I finally got a chance to darken my well-faded Ugandan tan. : )

Grand Marshals - Kathy Boyd & Phoenix Rising - the band that put Clatskanie on the "musical map"

"Twelve More Miles to Clatskanie" was the theme for Clatskanie's annual round-up of festivities - the biggest thing that happens here with a full slate of activities that extend over multiple days. The BIG day - July 4th - includes the annual parade, logging show, barbecue, fireworks and more. The 2011 theme was taken from a song by the same name, produced by the band Kathy Boyd & Phoenix Rising. The tune garnered the most votes in an international Internet-based City Love songwriting contest. Yes, Clatskanie was voted the most-loved city in the universe as it beat out odes written in tribute to much larger cities like Paris, Sydney, Los Angeles and others around the world.

When you cross the Lewis & Clark Bridge spanning Oregon and Washington and prepare to head west - you have only twelve more miles to Clatskanie. It was 8000 miles for me to come home for these three months - and I am enjoying every minute of it. I love this one-stoplight town, nestled in tree-clad hills, where people know your name and your story. It is a cherished place where peace, family, friends, beauty, faith and history are embraced and upheld.

So, I thought I would give you a small glimpse of what makes Clatskanie so special.

Our lovely mayor - Diane Pohl - who is also a Christian, riding in the parade.

"Twelve More Smiles to Clatskanie" - a clever twist on the celebration's theme.

We have everything from horses, to clowns, to classic cars, tractors, walking sandwiches, to Sasquatch in Clatskanie's parade.

Couldn't resist not posting this one "12 More Piles to Clatskanie" - the elected and lucky "pooper-scooper" following the horses. :)

Love those John Deere tractors!

A local church always does a great job of putting the focus back on our Founding Father - God - who established this great nation.

Couldn't have said it much better. : )

Our local emergency vehicles - sirens and all - mark the end of the parade.

After a full day of the parade, logging show, chicken barbecue, live music, games and contests, catching up with friends and neighbors, and more, then comes the grand finale - a great fireworks show. These photos and videos were taken from our deck - where we have a great view of the colorful and spectacular display.

Hope y'all had a blessed and celebration-filled July 4th!

May God continue to bless America!

P.S. You can get a free download of "Twelve More Miles to Clatskanie" at http://www.reverbnation.com/play_now/song_396891.

Early Summer Fun!

2011-06-21T16:40:00.000-07:00

Wow! Time flies! Especially when you are having fun. : ) So I have been soo busy lately that I haven't written in a post - for about a week.

Here's what I have been busy with...

Welcoming Leah home! (On Tuesday, June 14)

Visiting with family from southern California.

Spending time with friends

Celebrating Father's Day

At church...

And with a trip to the coast...

"Super Dad"

My beautiful sister!

Waves crashing, pounding...what an incredible sight! A great reminder of God's awesome power!

I love the rugged beauty of the Oregon coast!

Tillamook Head Lighthouse

"Leah was here!"

Daddy and Mommy

And finally, I am doing "Missionary Moments" at WCC's VBS this week...and having a lot of fun!

The music team at VBS.

Hope all of you are enjoying your summer thus far!

Voices from the Past

2011-06-14T12:50:00.000-07:00

I stumbled on a neat page yesterday and found a treasure-load of missions quotes. I love quotes and love missions, too, so I thought I would share some of these with you. Hopefully you will be both inspired and challenged.

"God had an only son and he was a missionary. A poor, poor example of him I am. But in this work I now live. And in this work, I wish to die." ~ David Livingstone, 1813-1873, missionary to Africa

"Remember, when you see a missionary coming home broken in body and weary in soul, it isn't the privations or dangers or things he's done that leave a deep hurt; it's the things he couldn't do that break his heart." ~ Anonymous Missionary

"I never made a sacrifice. Of this we ought not to talk when we remember the great sacrifice which he made who left His Father's throne on high to give Himself for us." ~ David Livingstone, 1813-1873, missionary to Africa

"If we are going to wait until every possible hindrance has been removed before we do a work for the Lord, we will never attempt to do anything." ~ T.J. Bach, 1881-1963, Missionary to Venezuela

"It is remarkable that God began this work among the Indians at a time when I had the least hope, and to my apprehension the least rational prospect of success." ~ David Brainerd, 1718-1747, Missionary to North American Indians

"The greatest missionary is the Bible in the mother tongue. It never needs a furlough and is never considered a foreigner." ~ William Cameron Townsend, 1896-1982, Missionary to Peru and Mexico and Founder of Wycliffe Bible Translators

"We are a bunch of nobodies trying to exalt Somebody." ~ Jim Elliot, 1927-1956, missionary martyr in Ecuador

"There are grave difficulties on every hand, and more are looming ahead - Therefore, we must go forward." ~ William Carey, 1761-1834, Missionary to India

"Every step in the progress of missions is directly traceable to prayer." ~ A.T. Pierson

"The harvest here is indeed great, and the laborers are few and imperfectly fitted, without much grace, for such a work. And yet grace can make a few feeble instruments the means of accomplishing great things - things greater even than we can conceive." ~ Hudson Taylor, 1832-1905, Missionary to China

"We visited sixty-six islands and landed eighty-one times, wading, swimming (to shore). Most of the people were friendly and delightful; only two arrows shot at us, and only one went near -- So much for savages!" ~ John Coleridge Patteson, 1827-1871, Melanesia

"One can't save and then pitchfork souls into heaven...Souls are more or less securely fastened to bodies... And as you can't get the souls out and deal with them separately, you have to take them both together." ~ Amy Carmichael, 1867-1951, India

"If you are ever inclined to pray for a missionary, do it at once, where ever you are. Perhaps he may be in great peril at that moment." ~ Amy Carmichael, 1867-1951, India

"Unless there is the element of extreme risk in our exploits for God, there is no need for faith." ~ Hudson Taylor, 1832-1905, Missionary to China

Source: http://www.toeverytribe.org/missionquotes

"Through Christ...

2011-06-09T09:56:00.000-07:00

"....strengthening us we can do all things, not otherwise; therefore He must have the glory of all we do, with our humble thanks for enabling us to do it, and for accepting the work of His hands in us." - Matthew Henry

Ponder this one for a bit.

A Videos Page

2011-06-08T23:01:00.000-07:00

Hi All!

I have taken a lot of videos during my time in Uganda and I wanted a place for them on the blog, so I just created a "Videos" page. Many of them were "filmed" on Lingira Island in southern Uganda, where I am serving as a missionary.

Click the "Videos" tab above, grab some popcorn (just kidding!), enjoy and stay tuned for more! :)

Choices

2011-06-07T21:26:00.000-07:00

Choices. We make them daily and daily they make us.

Lately I have been thinking about choices in light of seeing and catching up with people since being back home. The changes in their lives seem more evident to me - someone who has not seen them for a year and a half.

I rejoice over the "kids" who are graduating and entering college or the next "life" chapter God has opened up for them. It is amazing to see young people discovering and flourishing in their gifts and talents. I delight in the growth of friend's children and the little ones they have welcomed into their world while I was across the globe.

Some people and their professions or activities really haven't changed so much in these past months. But, perhaps they have grown, matured or expanded their vision in some way.

The evidence of some choices is difficult to discern. But over time choices and habits - good and bad - even if apparently small - can and usually do catch up to you.

I grieve over some dear to my heart who have chosen a path - away from God, away from family, and away from an amazing future in the center of God's will. Seeing how far they have continued down this proverbial "wide way" is very saddening.

I am proud of those who in their younger years chose such a "destructive" path, but now are doing their best to "make things right" and regain the life and relationships they lost. I have a cousin who is doing this and I am so proud of her.

For each of these groups of people, and those I haven't mentioned, their lives are and have been shaped by their choices. Some decisions were well thought out and some were rash and almost instaneous, but resulted in life-long consequences. Some have only earthly results, and others have both earthly and eternal repercussions.

I have and do regret the choices I made not to make certain choices, if that makes any sense. And, I am sorrowful over choices made that I would erase in an instant if possible.

During one of our weekly girls' Bible studies on the island, one girl asked me if God knew Adam and Eve would make the choice that they did in the garden why He didn't forewarn them. I am sure that is a question that has been asked everywhere from children's Sunday School classes to university campuses. I attempted to answer Agnes and explain the idea of a free will. After my feeble attempt, I concluded by telling her she could ask God when she got to heaven. : )

God did give us a free will. And I believe it was so that we would choose to love and serve Him, and not be robots that do what they are told because they don't have a choice.

Our days and our lives are filled with choices. And our choices most often determine the next step and our future - earthly and eternal. Our choices affect those around us and those who will come after us.

We do not have to be the product of our circumstances, environment, past, or relationships. God has given us free will and choice for a reason.

"Now what I am commanding you today is not too difficult for you or beyond your reach. It is not up in heaven, so that you have to ask, 'Who will ascend into heaven to get it and proclaim it to us so we may obey it?' Nor is it beyond the sea, so that you have to ask, 'Who will cross the sea to get it and proclaim it to us so we may obey it?' No, the word is very near you; it is in your mouth and in your heart so you may obey it. See, I set before you today life and prosperity, death and destruction. For I command you today to love the Lord your God, to walk in his ways, and to keep his commands, decrees and laws; then you will live and increase, and the Lord your God will bless you in the land you are entering to possess. But if your heart turns away and you are not obedient, and if you are drawn away to bow down to other gods and worship them, I declare to you this day that you will certainly be destroyed. You will not live long in the land you are crossing the Jordan to enter and possess. This day I call heaven and earth as witnesses against you that I have set before you life and death, blessings and curses. Now choose life, so that you and your children may live and that you may love the Lord your God, listen to his voice, and hold fast to him. For the Lord is your life, and he will give you many years in the land he swore to give to your fathers, Abraham, Isaac and Jacob." - Deuteronomy 30:11-20 (NIV)

Each day we are given a choice - to choose life or death, blessings or curses. We can choose to draw closer to God or walk away from Him. We have the option to recognize Him as "our life" as verse 20 says.

You may have already firmly set your feet on a path of life and blessings by determining to love and please God as He commanded in the above verses. But there are very likely people around you - older, younger or peers - who are struggling with such choices. Some may not realize they even have an option to choose life. Or perhaps do not really understand where their daily and life choices will eventually take them.

Will you choose today to not only pursue life yourself, but help others find that path as well?

A Button!

2011-06-01T16:48:00.000-07:00

Wow! I just added my first-ever button to my blog (see right). It only took several hours of searching Blogger and other sites to figure out how to do it, but I learned some things along the way. : )

So, to help promote The Suubi Project, would you consider adding the button to your blog? All you have to do is click "Grab this Button," which means you don't even have to copy and paste a URL. Unfortunately, this only seems to work if you have a Blogger blog. For any of the rest of you, well, you're kinda on your own. But, if you can figure out a way to do it, please share with me.

Don't forget to add the button! Thank you! : )

Uganda Prezi

2011-06-01T09:30:00.000-07:00

As I have made various presentations on the ministry in Uganda in the past few weeks, I have been using a combination of photos and videos and Prezis. I love Prezis! They are like PowerPoint, but much easier to put together and I think they are more interesting, too.

Here is a Prezi I created about Uganda that has been modified several times. If you are interested in creating your own Prezi (up to 100MB for free), then go to www.prezi.com.

Uganda & Helping the Poor on Prezi

P.S. Advance the presentation by clicking the arrow below the screen or by using your right arrow key.

A New Page!

2011-05-25T15:02:00.001-07:00

You may have noticed that my blog now has two pages - the home page and "The Suubi Project" page. Pretty exciting!

I would encourage you to click on The Suubi Project tab to read more about a new little venture I felt led to start. : ) Check it out!

"Two Weeks in Africa"

2011-05-24T20:26:00.000-07:00

I heard this song today and I really liked the message. My favorite lines are:

"And we put the walls up but Jesus keeps them standing

He doesn’t need us but He lets us put our hands in

So we can see, His love is bigger than you and me"

God doesn't need our help to reconcile the world back to Himself. But He invites us to join Him in this great work, so we can witness the power of His incredible love around the world.

"Whatever!"

2011-05-23T20:22:00.000-07:00

I love live music, especially piano and guitar. I believe the measure of a "professional" musician is if they make playing look easy. I just picked up my violin again today, after 16+ months of not playing it. It felt so good and I was surprised how some things came back to me so quickly. I am far from a professional, but I enjoy "trying" to make good music.

As I soaked up some live, well-played and beautiful piano music yesterday afternoon, my soothed mind went back to a verse discussed in my Sunday School class earlier that day - Colossians 3:23-24.

"Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving."

"With all your heart..." Some versions say "heartily," which according to Wesley's Notes means "cheerfully, diligently." It literally means "from the soul" and "with personal interest."

Wesley makes this comment: "Menpleasers are soon dejected and made angry: the single-hearted are never displeased or disappointed; because they have another aim, which the good or evil treatment of those they serve cannot disappoint."

In verse 22 of the same chapter, Paul is speaking to servants, admonishing them to "obey in everything" their earthly masters, doing so sincerely and with the aim to please God, not men. In verse 23, he carries the admonition further - "Whatever you do" do it "heartily"!

I suppose you could say that verses 23-24 only apply to slaves, but the basic Biblical principle can be applied to us all. In his letters Paul says we are no longer slaves to sin, but bondservants of Christ. A bondservant was one, who although offered his freedom, willingly chose to stay with and serve his master. Paul referred to himself as a "bondservant of Jesus Christ." And, in verse 24, the Apostle reminds the slaves who he is addressing, that although they have earthly masters, ultimately they are "serving the Lord Christ."

So, yes, I do believe Colossians 3:23-24 applies to all Christians - "bondservants" of Christ.

What does piano music then have to do with being a bondservant? I like the "whatever" in verse 23 because it means exactly what it says - whatever you do. So, whether it be playing the piano, writing a blog, sweeping the floor, caring for children, washing the dishes, doing schoolwork, working in a secular job, visiting with a neighbor - the list is endless - do it all from your heart and to please the Lord.

He is our Master and it brings Him such pleasure when we use what He has given us, whether it be time, resources, talents, gifts, jobs or tasks.

I like this quote from Martin Luther King, Jr.

“If a man is called to be a street sweeper, he should sweep streets even as Michelangelo painted, or Beethoven composed music, or Shakespeare wrote poetry. He should sweep streets so well that all the hosts of heaven and earth will pause to say, here lived a great street sweeper who did his job well.”

I personally believe that God cares more about our heart attitude in "whatever" we do, more so than the "what."

"How happy would true religion make the world, if it every where prevailed, influenced every state of things, and every relation of life!" - Matthew Henry

Update on Amanda K.

2011-05-19T22:24:00.000-07:00

Praise God! My missionary friend Amanda K. has made what I consider to be a miraculous recovery from cerebral malaria. Just about a week ago, she was in very serious condition. But, according to a report earlier this evening, she is well on her way to recovering.

Here is the most recent update from her family: "SHE'S BACK !!!!!! She is wide awake and quietly talking, she is smiling and making fun of her sister and brother and laughing. She is making comments about herself and cracking us all up. Her sense of humor didn't get affected and it is soooo good to hear it again! Her throat is of course a bit sore yet, but she is eating ice and saying she is hungry, wanting something to eat. We hope she is moved to a regular room soon and able to have a bit more freedom, I'm sure she will be raring to go tomorrow. She will also be asking for her phone and computer very soon and will be catching up to you all. Thank You ALL for your thoughts and prayers, we have seen some wonderful examples of God's control and healing power this past week."

Hundreds of people around the world have been praying for and caring about Amanda this week. And, God has definitely worked on her behalf. Thank you to those who prayed!

To God be all of the glory!

Trusting the Great Physician

2011-05-16T10:35:00.000-07:00

Sometimes it is taken for granted that someone is "safer" in the U.S. than overseas. America has the best medical facilities and thus access to a plethora of medicines, state-of-the-art tests, treatments, etc. But, that is not always the case.

Amanda K. center when she and fellow short-term missionaries, Debbie, second from left, and Meredith, second from right, visited Shepherd's Heart and Lingira Island in March. Amanda Taylor and I are shown far left and far right, respectively.

My friend Amanda Kruppenbacher is also a Global Outreach missionary and has been serving for nearly a year as a teacher of missionary children at Good Shepherd's Fold, an orphanage near Jinja, Uganda.

Amanda came home to the states just a couple of weeks ago to be with her mom, who is facing serious medical challenges. But, Amanda also came home with malaria. In Uganda, malaria is blamed for just about any sickness anyone comes down with, whether it is the real culprit or not. There, malaria is fairly easy to test and to treat as tests and medicine are readily available. However, you have a window of only a couple of days to begin treating malaria before the parasites in your bloodstream quickly multiply and the sickness develops into something worse, even fatal.

Amanda's malaria did develop into something worse - cerebral malaria, which means it affects the brain, causing swelling and other symptoms. Just a few days ago, Amanda was admitted into an ICU in a Pennsylvania hospital.

Medicine was not readily available and had to be shipped from Atlanta. But, praise God! Amanda's parasite levels in her red blood cells dropped from 41% to .2% in like a day - a total miracle! Her brain swelling is decreasing and she is becoming more responsive.

If you think of Amanda K., please pray for a full and complete recovery. I believe God still has much work for her at Good Shepherd's Fold and in Uganda.

Amanda's story is a reminder that our life and breath are very much in the hands of our God - the Great Physician. He is truly the Giver and Sustainer of all life!

Amanda's blog: http://alkruppenbacher.posterous.com/ (She wrote about her March visit to Lingira Island in a post entitled "Let us be thankful.")

New Videos!

2011-05-09T12:04:00.000-07:00

It has been a long time since I posted videos on here. I tried multiple times to upload videos to YouTube while in Uganda and nearly always failed. So, I am thrilled to be back to hi-speed wireless so I can better share with you what God is doing on Lingira Island!

These videos (see below) are ones I took of the school - Lingira Living Hope Secondary School (LLHSS) - the day before I left the island (April 24, 2011). Since its founding in February 2006, God has raised up Lingira Living Hope and made it a light to the islands and beyond. Permanent buildings are going up, enrollment has increased and there is a spiritual fervor and an insatiable hunger for God and His Word among the students.

Lingira Living Hope in February 2007 - one year after its founding. The structure was wood and boards were almost constantly having to be replaced because of termite damage.

Only God could raise up such a school in a place where education is hardly valued and parents struggle so much to pay for their children's education. It is one of only two secondary schools on the 52 islands that make up the Buvuma chain on Lake Victoria.

Me in November 2006 speaking to the students inside their wood-walled classroom.

Before LLHSS, students had few options after they completed the primary (elementary) level. Because mainland schools are expensive and not easily accessible, young island men and women often quit studying and began working. The boys turned to fishing and it was not unusual for the girls to be married off at 13 or 14.

"But God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise; God chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong." - 1 Corinthians 1:27

When the school began, many in the nearby camps prophesied its demise. And up until this school year (which began in February), the challenges (financial, issues with staff, working with the government, etc.) seemed insurmountable. But, this year, after many heartfelt and persistent prayers, we began to see God meeting these challenges in a big way.

The school was recently chosen to receive some government funding and is very close to being approved as a testing center for our top class. (In the past, our Senior 4s had to spend about six weeks at another unfamiliar but "registered" school, away from their own teachers and peers, before they took their final exam at this level. Our kids often got sick and were not treated or cared for properly, thus affecting their results.)

Lingira Living Hope - April 2011 - sustained by God's grace and thriving after five years.

The office and classroom building is no longer wood, but is of permanent brick and concrete and boasts glass windows and solar power. Other permanent buildings are going up, too! Even more students are expected to come for the second term, which begins May 23.

One of the students being baptized in March. More than half of the 13 new believers baptized in Lake Victoria were LLHSS students.

I am excited for what God will continue to do in and through Lingira Living Hope as it fulfills its vision - "Hope for Transformation."

Enjoy the videos! (Sorry in advance for the quality. :( )

Please keep praying for LLHSS - its teachers, students, financial needs, and most of all that God would be glorified in this island school!

P.S. For more about LLHSS, visit the SHIM website, http://www.shimuganda.com/ and the "Educational and Child Development Programs" page under the "Branches of Ministry" tab.

Ambassadors of Reconciliation

2011-05-06T09:56:00.000-07:00

Sickness, family problems, loss of loved ones, unemployment - the needs are so real. And, when people you care about are facing them, your heartstrings are drawn taunt.

As I sat and listened to these "prayer requests," I was reminded that people around the globe need the hope and encouragement found in Jesus Christ.

You see, these needs were being verbalized, not in Uganda, but here in Oregon.

Distressed, run-down, discouraged and "poor" folks are everywhere. Chances are, if you live in this fallen world - at some point in time you have fit one or more of these categories and very likely know others who have been there, too.

I was reminded today of the definition of "poverty" in the book, "When Helping Hurts," (which I highly recommend). "Poverty" is the result of broken relationships, whether our relationship with God, with others, our self, or creation. And, we all fit somewhere in there.

Just as I am frequently saddened by the ever-present state of poverty in all its forms throughout our world, I am just as much encouraged by Jesus' ministry of reconciliation. I love the passage in 2 Corinthians concerning this.

"All this is from God, who through Christ reconciled us to Himself and gave us the ministry of reconciliation, that is, in Christ God was reconciling the world to Himself, not counting their trespasses against them, and entrusting to us the message of reconciliation. Therefore, we are ambassadors for Christ, God making His appeal through us. We implore you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God." (vs. 18-20)

It is mind-boggling to me that not only does Jesus reconcile us to God, "not counting our trespasses" against us, but includes us in His incredible ministry as "ambassadors of reconciliation."

Just as I was deeply touched by the needs I heard shared earlier in the week, I have also been so encouraged by the ministry going on at home by Christ's ambassadors.

We need ambassadors at home and abroad. Your neighbor, your relative, your co-worker, your student, and the stranger in the grocery store all have very felt needs. And, they need to hear of Christ's love, forgiveness and restoration power.

You may be the exact person God has sent to deliver the message.

The International Adventures of C.T.

2011-05-01T10:08:00.000-07:00

Bad weather in Memphis, Tennessee delayed my flight out of Tupelo, Mississippi this morning. So, I missed my connection in Memphis and I am spending a few unplanned hours in the airport as I wait for my next flight.

To kill some time, I did a photo shoot of my traveling companion - C.T. I have been accompanied by this faithful friend from my journey's start in Jinja, Uganda and continuing to Nairobi, Kenya, then to Amsterdam, Holland, to Memphis, Tennessee, to Tupelo, Mississippi, and back to Memphis. He has been in and around airports, restaurants, cars (in the trunk and in the front), airplanes, and a home. He's a quiet fellow, but I am somehow comforted by his presence.

He can't do much - speak, stand, wave or sit, thus, I carry him everywhere. But, if I needed to, I could use him as a weapon. : )

My friends, meet C.T.

Memphis has a rich musical history, so C.T. insisted on a photo with a painting in the airport spotlighting this fact. He also said he could be an instrument if he wanted to. Not so sure about that...

Since we had to get up shortly after 5 a.m. to make our flight out of Mississippi, C.T. was pretty tuckered in the airport and tried to find a place to rest. I can't imagine he was very comfortable though.

Finding a souvenir shirt to fit C.T. was a challenge, especially considering that he doesn't have arms. :(

C.T. suggested that if we got stuck in Memphis, we could stay the night in the "Heartbreak Hotel." ; )

C.T. wishes we had time to visit the Memphis Zoo and see this cute panda.

C.T. was a bit put out that I didn't share part of my airport breakfast sub with him. But, I said he shouldn't feel bad as he doesn't have a mouth to enjoy it.

Memphis is the home of the NBA Grizzlies basketball team. C.T. wanted to try out, but I told him he wasn't quite tall enough and having no arms was a bit of a handicap.

C.T. didn't like the fact that I carried him into the women's restrooms, but he was reassured that they could be used as a "severe storm shelter area" in case of any more tornadoes in the area.

Unfortunately, this was the best sighting we had of Elvis while we were in Memphis.

C.T. insisted that my Starbucks sleeve would dress him up a bit. Silly fellow.

Just a couple of more hours and C.T. and I will be on our way to Salt Lake City and then on to Portland - our final destination. I can't wait for my parents to meet him. : )

P.S. C.T. stands for "Cardboard Tube." Inside C.T. is a canvas painting created by an artist in Jinja, Uganda. I will post a photo of it in a future post.

Home Sweet Home...Almost

2011-04-29T14:44:00.000-07:00

I breathed a sigh of relief, mixed with happiness when I landed yesterday in Memphis, Tennessee. I was back. Back in the good ol' U.S.A. I should have kissed the ground, but didn't.

A short flight then took me from Memphis to Tupelo, Mississippi, where I will be for a couple of days. Right now I am in the Global Outreach International home office. Tomorrow I am appearing before the Global board of directors to be officially accepted as a Global missionary. I'm hoping I don't get evicted...or whatever you call it when a missionary is kicked out. ; )

It has been a blessing and a joy to see those of the home office. My appreciation for them increased incredibly while I was in Uganda. They do so much for their missionaries, so that we can stay focused on the ministry on the field. A staff of about a dozen works hard to assist nearly 200 Global Outreach missionaries. They are an amazing group. For more about Global, visit http://www.globaloutreach.com/.

Yes, I am home - to the U.S - but, I won't reach "home" until Sunday. I fly out of Tupelo early that morning and will land in Portland, Oregon at 1 p.m. Clatskanie is then 61 miles away.

I might kiss the ground then. : )

How do you say "McDonald's" in Dutch?

2011-04-28T00:22:00.000-07:00

I am sitting here in the Amsterdam airport, taking advantage of the one hour of free Internet. I am gradually feeling the transition back to the "western world," especially when I saw McDonald's and Starbucks here in the airport : )

The McDonald's in the Amsterdam airport

Yesterday was my "departure day" and my journey began a bit harried as the Ugandan taxi driver I hired to take me to the airport was 1-1/2 hours late. It is very common that things run on a different schedule there - lknown as "Ugandan time" - with nearly everything being late - meetings, church, etc. But, I knew airlines don't operate on "Ugandan time" and I was becoming quite nervous knowing I had a 3-4-hour trip to the airport ahead and little more than to get there before my plane departed.

But, the driver made it in record time - 2 hours and 38 minutes (Amanda noted that) and I arrived at the airport more than an hour and a half before my flight.

However, I began wondering if I wasn't meant to leave Africa when the airlines couldn't find my ticket from Entebbe, Uganda to Nairobi, Kenya, and then when I was strangely "offloaded" from the passenger manifest in Kenya for no apparent reason. Thanks to the help of a nice man named Boaz (I'm not kidding!) and with only minutes to spare, I did make my flight out of Entebbe and was seated in first class - so cool! I thoroughly enjoyed my spacious seat and using real glassware and silverware. : )

And thankfully, I managed to get "onloaded" (or however they put it) back on my flight from Nairobi to Amsterdam. The 7+ hour flight to Amsterdam was uneventful (except for the fact that I was eating more American-type food than I had in a long time!), and I did manage to get some sleep. I have a few hours left in Amsterdam, before I journey on to Memphis, Tenn., and then to my final stop of this leg - Tupelo, Miss. where I will be for a couple of days, before finally reaching Oregon on Sunday. : )

Thank you all to have been praying for me and my journey! Keep praying!

Flying home!

2011-04-26T22:24:00.000-07:00

My countdown has turned from months, to days, now to hours.
At 8 p.m. Uganda time today, Wednesday, I will fly out of Uganda's Entebbe airport and begin my journey back to the U.S. (BTW, 8 p.m. is 10 a.m. in the U.S. West Coast and 1 p.m. on the East Coast.)

I can hardly believe this day is here! After more than 15 months in Uganda, I am so excited to go back and see my dear family, church family and friends! : )

View from the top of Lingira Island

I am incredibly thankful for God's mercy, grace and provision during my time in Uganda. I have been blessed in so many ways, I cannot even begin to count them. It is an incredible privilege to be serving in this beautiful country, among beautiful people, and witnessing God's transforming work on the islands and elsewhere in Uganda.

I will definitely be leaving part of my heart here - with my SHIM family, other friends, and especially the island students. I am excited to return to Uganda in three months and see what good things God has been doing while I was away. : )

I would really appreciate your prayers as I have a long journey ahead. In total I will be traveling for about 47 hours - including flights and layovers. Tonight I fly from Uganda to Nairobi, Kenya, then to Amsterdam (with an 8-hour layover there), then on to Memphis, Tenn. and finally to Tupelo, Miss. - landing there at 8 p.m. Thursday. I will be spending a couple of days at the Global Outreach home office in Tupelo and appearing before the mission's board of directors.

Then on Sunday morning, May 1, I will fly from Tupelo to Memphis, to St. Paul, Minn. and then finally land in Portland about 1 p.m. Sunday. Yay!!

Thank you so much to each and every one of you who have been so supportive in so many ways during my time here. I can't repay you, but I pray God abundantly blesses you in every way! I hope I get to see many of you while I am home! : )

Ugandan tea fields

Today...

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...began with a beautiful morning on the island - sunshine, blue skies and white puffy clouds.

...I read the story of Christ's resurrection in my English NLT Bible, watched a video of it - narrated in Kiswahili, and heard it read in Lugandan.

...was a celebration with my church family on the island as we reflected on God's love and the incredible display of it in the gift of His Only Son.

Fishermen on the lake

...I packed up the remaining items in my island room in preparation for my departure to the U.S.A. (about three days away!).

...was the last day on Lingira Island (my home for about 15 months). : (

Me on one of the SHIM boats

...was the last trip across a choppy Lake Victoria for some time. : )

...I saw a boy in church wearing a Palm Springs, California t-shirt, yet it is possible he has never left the island.

...I exchanged smiles with a young girl with a broad smile, who sat as close to me as possible on the wooden bench during the service.

...on my walk to church I saw a young boy tugging with all his strength on one end of a rope, that had a very stubborn goat on the other end.

...was a day of new life as twin goats (one black and one white) were born to the SHIM family, and another pair of carmel-colored "kids" entered the world at the Ripon landing site in Jinja.

...I enjoyed a delectable dinner of tender beef fillet, heavenly mashed potatoes, delicious gravy, scrumptious muffins, crisp green beans, and take-me-back-to-my-childhood Jello - all lovingly prepared by Mama Michelle. : )

...was a day of loss as I was sorely beaten in Nerts (like Dutch Blitz) and Spoons, though I did win a round here and there. ; )

David in December - discovering a new use for hair clips. :)

...I enjoyed watching a sleeping boy (David) cuddled up to his mommy and daddy as we traveled on the lake together.

...I was again mesmerized by the beauty of Uganda with its lush green landscape and broad cloud-filled skills.

...was a day of blessing as I relished the fellowship and hospitality of members of my SHIM family (thank you, Petersons, for the great evening!)

...I am thankful for Christ's resurrection, the abundant life found in Him, God's grace and provision, and the blessing of family and friends!

...was Easter Day - a day of remembrance, joy and celebration!

How was your "today"?

Standing Out

2011-04-21T04:13:00.000-07:00

Sometimes I wish I could blend in. But my white skin color makes that nearly impossible here in Uganda - a land full of dark faces.

Despite my attempts to tan, I still look quite white compared to some of my friends. :)

It is almost a guarantee that if I visit an island village or walk down a street in Jinja, I will hear "Mzungu! Mzungu!" "Muzungu" means "white person" in Lugandan. Usually it is children who call this out and they frequently accompany it with the few English words they know, "How are you?" No matter how many times you say "I'm fine," their simple question is repeated as long as you are in sight.

Earlier this week I went to Jinja for a couple for days. As I traversed the streets I made the mistake of walking near a truck mounted with a speaker system and a man with a mic. As soon as he saw me, he called out "Mzungu! Mzungu! Mzungu, I love you!," which was broadcast to anyone within hearing distance of the speaker. I tried to escape down the street as quickly as possible.

I have contempated buying one of the shirts, sold in local tourist shops, that read "My name is not Mzungu."

When I am viewed and judged by the color of my "dollar" skin and thus inevitably seen as a wealthy American, that is when I wish I could be treated just like anyone else here. When I am favored over others, even those older and of a higher position than I, how I long that my skin was not a barrier. As I struggle with these feelings, I try to make some spiritual application. And, I do think there is one.

As Christians we are called to not blend in, but rather to stand out. We are to be different, not because of our skin, our background or the country we call home, but because we are followers of the Living Son of God.

This morning I read John 15. Verse 19 says, "The world would love you as one of its own if you belonged to it, but you are no longer part of the world. I chose you to come out of the world..." (NLT)

Elsewhere we are told, "Live clean, innocent lives as children of God, shining like bright lights in a world full of crooked and perverse people." (Philippians 2:15)

"You are the light of the world - like a city on a hilltop that cannot be hidden. No one lights a lamp and then puts it under a basket. Instead, a lamp is placed on a stand, where it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your good deeds shine out for all to see, so that everyone will praise your Heavenly Father." (Matthew 5:14-16)

As Christ-followers we are not to blend in, to conform to the world aorund us, but just as Christ was different because of His adherence to God's truth and light, so are we to shine like bright lights. Our love for Christ and the resulting desire to perform good deeds should make us stand out - more than our skin ever will.

Where will you shine for Christ today?

Lovin' Lingira Living Hope

2011-04-16T08:19:00.000-07:00

This afternoon as I walked through the grounds of our island secondary school, I felt as if in a ghost town. The classrooms and dorms were virtually empty, the noise of chattering voices had ceased, and the familiar sight of students dressed in blue and white uniforms had vanished.

Just a short time before I had waved goodbye to the last boatload of students, who were headed home for the holiday - to an island about four hours further into the lake.

Lingira Living Hope's recently-completed classroom block

Friday marked the end of the first term of 2011 for Lingira Living Hope Secondary School. And, I miss the students already. I said and heard "I will miss you" many times during the last few days. And, it is with bittersweet sadness that I think about leaving the island in little more than a week.

The two and half months of this term have been some of the busiest and most challenging during my 15 months in Uganda, but those weeks have also been among the most fulfilling for me. God has grown and deepened my love for the school and the students during this time. I have so enjoyed these young people as I have taught computer classes, led Bible studies with the girls, smiled proudly as I watched them perform in the choir and lead in praise and worship, chatted after classes and had meaningful one-on-one conversations with different ones.

A few of the Lingira Living Hope girls, from left, Christine, Marion, Rose, Anna and Esther

God has given me a passion for young people and I feel so blessed and privileged to be working with the school and the students here.

The school is improving as new buildings are going up and the enrollment increases. But, it is the students who really bring life to Lingira Living Hope. They contribute so much to the school, to Shepherd's Heart, to the church, to the community and to this island. And, that is so obvious when they go on holiday (breaks between terms) and the campus is quiet and empty.

I wholeheartedly believe that these young men and women are the future of this island and the communities throughout Uganda from which they come. I also believe God will use them in a mighty way to fulfill the school's mission of "Hope for Transformation," through Christ, our "Living Hope."

I will miss the students very much, but I look forward to when we meet again.

Morning Star ladies after our last gathering of the term

I'm It!

2011-04-04T05:41:00.000-07:00

At left, me on one of the SHIM boats.

I'm "it" in that I was tagged by Lauren of the blog "One Bright Corner." The "tag" means I received the "Stylish Blog Award," but also that I must reveal seven "random" facts about myself. : )

I don't consider myself very "random," but sometimes rather boring, so after wracking my brain, here are my seven facts.

1. I like order and routine - it's just part of my personality. I admit that sometimes I can carry "routine" a bit far. I have been known to eat the same thing for breakfast for weeks on end or do the same chore day after day after day. While in Uganda I have been nicknamed "Mrs. Monk" after the OCD (Obessesive Compulsive Disorder) detective in the "Monk" television series. I really obsess about having things straight...

Katie, a visitor from 2010, and I washing dishes. I did dishes (one of the routine chores I enjoy) on most mornings last year.

2. For about five years, I weekly "published" "The Family News," well before I started working at a "real" newspaper. Before our family had a computer, I handwrote the small paper every week, then circulated the one copy among my immediate family members. Features included: quotes; what had occurred in history during that week; birthdays of family, friends and famous Bible people; a weekly Bible verse; an advice column written by a cat, I believe; "Daddy's Corner," and more. Once our family was given a computer in 1998, I began formatting "The Family News" on the computer, which made its preparation faster and easier on the eyes of my readers. : )

3. I have a fear of water. Yep, I do, which is why I think God definitely has a sense of humor in placing me on an island on the world's second largest lake. My mother tells me I screamed when she tried to bathe me as a baby. Thankfully, I no longer scream when bathing. ; ) To help me conquer my fear, my mother enrolled my sister (the "fish") and I in swimming lessons. This helped, but without consistent practice, I forgot most of what I learned, and still have a fear of the "deep end." The funny thing is that many Ugandans also fear water, but I tell them that "the God of the land, is also God of the water." And, God very often gives me His peace during frequent trips across the lake.

My friend Flex also enjoys tea - specifically Ugandan black tea. :)

4. I used to dislike tea, until a good friend properly introduced it to me. While coffee is my first beverage of choice, especially in the mornings, I frequently enjoy a cup of tea in the late afternoon or evening. "Constant Comment" and "Chai Spice" are two of my favorites. It's a good thing I now have a love for tea, as it is the most popular drink in Uganda!

5. My favorite foods are rice, beans and potatoes - all staple foods here in Uganda! I think God created my tastebuds for here. ; ) Incidentally, there are few Ugandan foods I don't care for, which is good for adapting to the culture, but bad for my waistline. ; )

6. Some of my nicknames are "Winkers," "Twinx Baby," "Rowdy," Rudy," "Sissy," "Roofie," and "Lucy." ; )

7. I much prefer even number to odd numbers. Which is funny since I was born on the 9th day of the 7th month. At least my birth year is an even number. ; ) And, the fact that this list ends on an odd number, well, that just disrupts my routine. : )

Well, that's enough about me, so I hereby "tag" any reader who wants to reveal seven random facts about themselves. : ) Have a blessed day! : )

An island sunset.

Thank you...

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...to Lucia of "From Under My Little Umbrella" for creating my beautiful new header! Thank you, Lucia!
Be sure and check out her blog at http://www.one-beloved.blogspot.com/

Basins of Blessings

2011-03-17T07:06:00.000-07:00

Outside the Smith home - basins set out to collect the rain.

Several times this week our senses were stimulated by familiar sounds and smells. But what we were about to experience had been long anticipated. And, as it began, we joyfully put out our basins to catch all that we could of this blessing.

After weeks without rain, God opened the skies of heaven and that welcome precipitation poured down, creating small rivers in the dry, hard soil, quenching the thirst of parched plants and animals, and replenishing our empty water tanks.

I couldn’t help but say excitedly as the rain came first on Sunday, “Yay, God! Yay, God!” as I did a little happy dance. Then it rained on Tuesday and again today, Thursday.

One of our largest basins collecting rainwater. It was nearly full after Tuesday's storm.

A couple of weeks ago we received a text message from the Ugandan Office of the Prime Minister which said it looked as if we were in for a long dry season, and food, water and pasture would become short in supply. Lately, we have been hearing reports of “skyrocketing” food and fuel prices.

The evening I received the ominous message, I read Isaiah 41:17-20.

“When the poor and needy seek water, and there is none, and their tongue is parched with thirst, I the Lord will answer them; I the God of Israel will not forsake them. I will open rivers on the bare heights, and fountains in the midst of the valleys, I will make the wilderness a pool of water, and the dry land springs of water. I will put in the wilderness the cedar, the acacia, the myrtle, and the olive. I will set in the desert the cypress, the plane and the pine together, that they may see and know, may consider and understand together, that the hand of the Lord has done this, the Holy One of Israel has created it.”

Rain has been an item of prayer here at SHIM and we are so grateful for God answering our prayers!

I have also been blessed in recent weeks by the "thirst" among the island’s secondary students for God’s Word. Last March Amanda and I began the “Bible Project” and with the support of our home church, Westport Community Church, we have been able to provide Bibles to the students. To receive a Bible, a student need only memorize and recite the books of the Bible in order. In the 2010 school year, I believe we presented about 30 Bibles. But, recently in 17 days, 33 students, both boys and girls, have earned their own copy of the Bible! Yay, God!

One evening, seven excited girls recited the books. A group of them gathered around me near their hostel. With beaming faces and broad smiles, they encouraged one another, and cheered when each one successfully completed the recitation. They were so enthusiastic, you would have thought I was giving away money!

A group of Lingira Living Hope students with their new Bibles.

I have been so blessed to see God's answers to our prayers, whether for rain or for the island students to respond to His truth and light. Thank you, too, to those who have prayed for these needs!

Praise God from whom all blessings flow!

I've Been Published!

2011-02-23T09:36:00.000-08:00

I was honored to be featured as a guest blogger over at "One Bright Corner"! My article "We're All Below the Poverty Line" was featured yesterday (Tuesday)! Visit http://www.onebrightcorner.blogspot.com/ to read it. You will have to scroll down a bit to find it, as they are featuring a new post every day this week.

And, while you are there at "One Bright Corner," become a follower of the blog. It is one of my favorites as I am often blessed, encouraged and challenged by the posts. : )

Blessings Kindled by "One Bright Corner"

2011-02-21T09:39:00.000-08:00

I am blessed when Christians are faithful in the place where God has put them. I am inspired by those who shine the light and love of Jesus at home, work, school, and as they go about everyday business. I am challenged by the lovers of Jesus who take every opportunity to be a witness and tell of His goodness and faithfulness in their lives.

I have been blessed, inspired and challenged many times by Lauren and Mikaela as they "brighten" their corner regularly at their blog, http://onebrightcorner.blogspot.com/.

This week they are celebrating the second anniversary of "One Bright Corner," and they have lots of special surprises in store. Today they announced a giveaway, which you will definitely have to check out. :)

And, I hope if you visit their blog, you will also follow, because I have no doubt you will be blessed whenever you enter their "corner."