November 23, 2011

My camera usually leaves home when I do, but there are many scenes that I cannot capture. This week I want to share some captured and uncaptured scenes which I pray will lead you to seeing our world and joining us in prayer.

Many recently viewed scenes include mud and more mud. After years of poor rains, Kenya is having a proper rainy season which comes with blessings of flourishing crops and overflowing water reservoirs. The good rains also leads to the suffering of floods. This is especially a problem in slum areas with buildings constructed of throw-away items. Also many Kenyans rely on foot power, which means they are rather damp these days which leads to illnesses with many having limited medical care. Another problem: Areas affected by famine are not yet benefitting from the new crops and relief trucks are mired in mud, unable to make the journey. For more on the Horn of Africa drought, go to the “Too hungry to cry” - Africa Stories (1)or to BGR Updates and Videos at Horn of Africa Drought Crisis (2).

There were also many unexpected scenes last week. Driving to church last Sunday, we questioned if our car was invisible as we faced many near collissions as big and small vehicles sought our spot on the road. Then a motorcycle with a special cargo appeared – which relieved our tension and helped us focus on blessings and joys rather than our discouragements.

A unexpected scene not captured was meeting a woman while shopping. The woman said several times in Swahili, “You are a woman, you have children. Mine are starving, please give me money.” I had money to offer, but I know the Holy Spirit opened my eyes to note the woman’s good health and the dazed look in her eyes. It broke my heart, but I knew the Holy Spirit was telling me that this was not a time to give, but to pray for the woman.

Later in the week, a young man shared with us how he had lost his house and possessions due to the illegal action of others. We had only a few shillings in our pockets that day, but the Holy Spirit led to assure him of our prayers and a later financial help. We rarely leave home without encountering people in need, which leads to a needed constant prayer: Alertness to the guidance of the Holy Spirit as we decide how/when to respond to the needs around us.

Please don’t read of these experiences and ‘feel sorry’ for us or think we live a ‘hard life’. There are many joys in our lives – which will include a traditional Thanksgiving lunch with co-workers tomorrow. We are thankful for where God has called us and the gift of doing His work – which leads to a few prayer requests: For guidance and sensitivity as I share stories from East Africa, especially as the annual Lottie Moon Offering time approaches.

Pray also that our co-workers will be encouraged as their stories are shared. Pray for Jack as he travels this weekend to a central Kenyan Bible School. Pray that he will strengthen these pastors as he teaches how to share our Father’s love with followers of other faiths. Pray for Jack also as he begins another two week teaching session next week at our seminary, KBTC.

One more thanksgiving before I close: Thank you for all the ways you support us through your prayers, sending personnel and giving to the Cooperative Program and Lottie Moon Offering! BERT YATES

--- --- --- --- ---

(1) “Too hungry to cry” / Africa Stories – http://www.africastories.org/

(2) BGR Horn of Africa Drought Crisis – http://www.baptistglobalresponse.com/projects/view/horn_of_africa_drought_crisis