Bwana Asifiwe!
Praise the Lord! After arriving in Kenya and quickly getting settled into African life, my emotional and spiritual processing is on overdrive. We took a tour through Kibera a few days ago, trying to start our 2 month ministry in the lives of those who live there. I can’t really tell you what I was thinking while walking through it, seeing the children in tattered clothes sitting in the muddy streets, others running full force from their mud-walled homes to greet us with handshakes and shy smiles while shouting in unison “howareyouhowareyou?!” as if it were all one word.
Things are simple here. Simplicity is awakening my soul to all new emotions and lessons…lessons about the world and about the living presence of God in a place filled with crime and hopelessness. A phrase my team and I have fully adopted when we don’t understand the cultural or social differences is this: TIA (this is Africa). Things are drastically different here and I’m learning to choose into these differences. I choose to share in the suffering, in the joy, and in the culture with open arms and an open heart. I choose to feel fully and love deeply.
I’m excited to see the healing and transformation in the lives of those we build relationships with. I’m just as excited to see the transformation in our own lives over the next 3 months, as we break down barriers and allow Christ to penetrate our hearts in new ways. So for now, my mantra is this: I choose in.
Katie,
What a joy to hear how God is working in your life! You are such a blessing to us here in Salinas, that I’m sure you’re an even bigger blessing to those you are in contact with. We are praying for you. Alvina
Hi Katie,
You are meeting your expectations, big time! God is already changing your heart. I am excited with you about all you are learning. We miss you here, but I’m so glad you are there! 🙂
Love,
Diane
Hi Katie,
All I can say is Amen. You have a teachable spirit and a willing heart. I learn from what you say 1/2 way around the world. God bless you sweetheart!!
I love you,
Mama
Thank you for sharing your journey with us. I envy your time in simplicity. Take advantage of this time when your focus is entirely on God…….and then try to bring that home with you.
Have a wonderful time!!
Hi Sweetie,
I am so thrilled to get your message. I sent you a valentine card before you left the states. I check the clock often and think what is Katie doing now and say a little prayer.
Love you so much,
Grandma
Hi Katie
Grandma and I have been thinking about you and praying for you. We are happy that you are enjoying the country of Africa
and it’s people. You never know what is going on in other countrys until you have been there. I’m sure your are as much
a blessing to them as they are to you. God bless you sweet heart.
Love you
Grampa & Grandma
glad to hear you’re settling in and taking it all in. i love to hear about the simplicity you’re experiencing in the culture. keep learning. you’re loved!
KT,
Thanks for writing about “choosing in” – I am looking forward to pondering this idea…
I was just so glad to read your words, too! Fun to hear from you all the way across the world!
We miss you here…but are more glad than ever that you are serving our King where you are.
Praying that you are being led well, learning just what you need to learn, and experiencing his rich mercies, new every morning.
Love you sweet friend!
Sarah