Those we have grown to Love

In the midst of the blogs and posts, I can't forget the reason we've come--the precious people of Rwanda.  I cannot imagine the uncertainty the staff and children must have felt as they saw their directors leaving.  

Change has been ongoing in this compound.  There have been several directors over the last few years.  Children have grown up and left, and the staff have shifted.  More recently, as the orphanage shifted into closing, 3/4's of the children have left.  Despite these changes, the children and remaining staff have welcomed us with open arms, ready to love and be loved.

The 17 remaining children range in age from 7-17.  Some are true orphans (no known living relatives), and others are orphaned with distant or estranged relatives.  Either way, the ultimate goal is to see each child placed in a home where they will be safe, fed, cared for, and given an opportunity to complete their education.  The process can take time, or, we could suddenly lose several children in a short period.  

Because we don't know for sure how long we have the children, we want to make the most of every opportunity we have to pour into, teach and love these kids.  Evenings and weekends are special.  We can teach a craft, read a story, pray for/with the children and just have fun.  Soccer is played near the church with our kids.  Whenever Kim is checking on or fixing things, he has several young boys with him.  When I go outside, the kids are asking me about stories, missionaries or our next family night.  The girls sort beans, cut vegetables and talk together.  As we figure out our full routine, we want to include more games, crafts and teaching time on Saturdays.  

We've also been impacted by the staff.  They work with such a quiet and gentle manner, willing to serve wherever needed.  They see the children as a ministry and serve here with joy.  We love and appreciate them all!  

Just before we arrived, the Bible College started on the property.  Included in the 43 students are 2 from Kenya.  It has been fascinating to learn about not only the Rwandan culture, but also that of other countries.  What a great opportunity!

Church has also been opened up to the community.  This last Sunday, we had 96 people attend.  It's exciting to see how the community is able to join us.  In the next few weeks, we hope to train some of the Bible School students in children's ministry, so Sunday school can begin.  This will be a great addition to our Sunday service.

Our family continues to adjust.  Yes, the culture, the land and "everything" is very different, but our family is able to draw closer to each other and work as an effective team.  We are learning to communicate with one another and function together in ways we've never experienced.  We truly see this time together as a gift.

Prayer requests would include:

--wisdom, as we direct here. There is much responsibility, but God is with us.

--health, some have tummy troubles here and there

--continued ability to adapt to and learn this beautiful culture.

Alien Fruit, Monster Rain and other Grand Adventures

Our crazy adventures continue here in our Rwanda home.  It's been only two weeks, but the experiences are one that are building great memories we will treasure always.

This morning I wasn't feeling 100%, so I sent Kim to the market with a detailed list.  In Canada, he always came back with a "bonus" item (usually something unique or unidentifiable).  

Here in Rwanda, he did not disappoint.  The fruit was large (think misshapen basketball size), heavy, slightly prickly and close to lime green.  Naomi and I decided to crack it open for lunch.  Cautiously we cut into the "alien" fruit.  The texture was brain-like, rubbery and like nothing I've seen before.  Pods encased in stringy material each held a large seed.  When you pull the pods out of their melon shell, they are rubbery (like calamari). This is the edible part.  It tastes kind of like a chewy banana.  Not bad really, just an adventure getting to it!  It's part of our lunch today--fruit salad, pumpkin muffins and sliced Gouda cheese.  

Food has been interesting.  No Walmart just down the street.  We have the local market each Wednesday.  Fresh fruits and vegetables are available for a good price.  There's a few stores, we can get flour, tomato paste and superglue (odd combination, I know).   Eggs, fanta (pop) and rice MAY be available.  The rest of our needs (cleaning supplies, milk, meat, cheese and toilet paper) have to come with a trip to the city.  

We've been enjoying steady heat (27-30) during the day.  The evenings are pleasantly cool, usually making it very comfortable to sleep.  On days it's peaked 30, we've noticed thunderstorms popping up.  It's usually around 2 or 3 in the afternoon we are quickly scrambling to grab our clothes off the line.  The rain usually only lasts 10-15 minutes, then it's back to the warmth and comfortable humidity.  

Last Saturday we had a "monster rain".  The skies darkened quickly and the wind (we hadn't experienced that here yet) picked up.  When the rain came, it was so loud, poor little Ethan sobbed on our bed that he wanted to leave the country and go to a place it didn't rain.  Once we gave him earmuffs and a game, he calmed down.  As the rain poured, the wind drove it into our home through the windows and vents.  Water flooded in from under the door.  Because of the concrete, it's no big deal, we just squeegee the water back out.  Every building had water, but no damage, just a squeegee to the floor and it was taken care of. This was a good taste of the rainy season to come.

We are feeling settled in our mission house and look forward to visitors whenever God opens the doors.  We've been so impressed by the generosity of the people and amazed at how hard-working and happy they are.  The staff here at the home are truly a blessing and we are already growing to love and appreciate them dearly. 

We love receiving the encouraging emails and messages.  Thank you for reminding us that we are not forgotten!

Prayer request for this week:

--favour for the last bit of visa (hopefully today we can get it submitted)

--health for everyone

--continued ease in adjustment for the kids

 

The Beauty of Church

It was Sunday today.  Climbing the hill to church, I felt weary, it had been a long week of learning so many new things.  We are still getting used the different sounds at night, the warmth of the days and the new routine.  

As people streamed into the church, I was impressed by the reverence and focus. Instead of visiting with their neighbours, individuals would come in, sit and take a few moments to collect themselves. When praise and worship began, the focus was completely on God.  The singing, dancing and praise that came from each person was so pure it brought tears to my eyes.  It felt as though every burden had been left at the door, so when the congregation came in, they were ready to put 100% of themselves into worshipping and praising God.  It was more than action,  it was the underlying attitude that was shifted.

Hmm, how often have I came to church with the hope that church would lift my spirits and give me something to carry me through the week?  What I saw today was people coming in with an attitude of "what can I give?" as opposed to "what can I get?".  If this was our attitude every time we went to church, can you imagine the difference?

Back to today . . .the main focus was thanksgiving.  This is a regular part of Sunday service--counting your blessings, sharing what God has done and giving Him glory.  Interspersed through is also songs of praise, singing, dancing, and so much enthusiasm!  

What brought a smile to my face was the youth choir--the mamas and girls from our home.  They sing with all their heart and dance beautifully.  In the middle of the choir is one mama--Epiphany (a dear, 75 year old mama).  She sings and dances with the energy of a young woman, totally in love with her Saviour.  Oh have I a lot to learn. 

When it comes to tithes and offerings, young and old are encouraged to give--joyfully.  For new believers, it may be a new concept, but nevertheless encouraged.

Last week, Pastor Ed (the director we took over for) preached.  This week, it was Kim's turn.  As he preached about faith, it was great to see how the congregation accepted his message.  We pray that they will take to heart the importance of having faith and trust in God.

We kept a quiet day today, reading, resting, playing a few games.  We want to guard this day of rest and make sure that we honour God by setting this day aside as a holy day.  This is not to sound religious, but setting a boundary in making sure that we are taking care of ourselves, as a family, so that as we pour out, we can be filled.

Thank you for your prayers.

This week, please pray specifically for:

--Speedy applications for the birth certificates, we get them notarized and sent to Canada

--Favour as we return to the visa office (no more surprises) so that we can get our 2-year missionary visas without further delay.

--Wisdom in shopping and cooking for me (Renae), to find a healthy balance so the teens are not always hungry

--Continued clarity as we learn the day-to-day running of the property and the culture.

Contrasts, Needs and Reality

Rwanda is a beautiful country with amazing people.  However, the extreme need is everywhere.  As a family coming here to serve, it's very easy to get overwhelmed if we don't keep in mind the job we were sent here to do.

Last night, as we were coming home from the city, we stopped to get fuel & airtime for our cell phone.  Beside us was the busy highway, people walking everywhere and a young man in a wheel chair, about 1/4 into the busy road. As he was propelling the old chair forward, the rubber came off the wheels.  He froze.  A couple people came over to help, and got the rubber back on, but in the fixing, the entire wheel came off!  Buses, cars and trucks speed by, honking, and he's there, stuck.  These two men help get the wheel on (while dozens continue to walk by), and they leave him.  He just sat, head down, in the busy road, not moving.   As we watched, a sense of helplessness washed over us.  It was late, we didn't have much money with us, there was really nothing we could do to make a difference in this person's life.

We were told to prepare for this.  The extreme needs are everywhere here.  Reality is, we can't help them all, we can't impact many, but we can focus on the job God brought here for and make an impact on those we are to help--the orphans in our compound, the students at this Bible School.

A couple nights ago, we decided to celebrate Naomi's birthday a day late and Joel's birthday 2 days early.  We baked a cake and they decided it would be fun to share it with the kids at family night.  A few nights a week, we have "family night" with the orphans.  This often is a time for the mamas and Rwandan parents to deal with problems, work on character, etc.  We have decided it would be a time to pour into the children.  

After a successful story time with the kids in the summer (they still remember the stories of Moshe I told them), we decided to continue with this tradition.  This time, reading stories of Christian heroes through history who made a difference for Christ.  Our ultimate goal?  To teach these precious kids that their Source is God, their key is God's Word and their help in time of need, is Christ alone.  

This is our primary calling--to be the hands and feet of Jesus to these children for however long we have them (as the government continues to slowly shut down the orphanages).  

When the children are cared for, we will continue to reach out to the community through the Bible School, teaching ESL, encouraging and building into these young people.  So much is happening right now, it is exciting to see God at work!  

We are now on our own, as the former director has returned to America.  The task in front of us feels overwhelming, the learning curve, high, but the God who called us here has promised to never leave us or forsake us and give us wisdom as we ask.  All we can do is trust in Him.

Please pray:

Wisdom as we manage--with budgeting/finances, staff

Clarity through transition--the Bible College is only in it's second week

Understanding as we try to learn this very different culture

Health & Protection for our family 

Market Day Fun

Buses slowed, people pointed and we kept walking.  I am not sure what the village crowd thought of the four strange white people following a local mama into the crowded morning market.  Children shyly greeted us, faces beaming as we shook their hands.  Heads turned and whispers of "mzungu" echoed through the crowd.  

Just off the road and up the hill, vendors were setting up their displays of fabric, clothes and shoes.  We crossed through and wove our way uphill, between the buildings to the food market.  The hillls were steep--and crowded!  Worn tarps covered the ground with produce and baskets piled high. In order get to the vendor with the best prices, we needed to squeeze through an already crowded area (tighter than shoulder to shoulder).  First on the list, carrots.  While negotiating the price, I had a man trying to sell me zucchini--300RWF ($.50) each, or, great price, 3 for 1000RWF!  I didn't buy the zucchini.  The carrots were sold by the bin--stuffed in, overflowing.  The same with the tomatoes.  I chose carefully and soon had a bagful of vegetables for under $3.  We bought bananas ($.15 each), mangos (small ones for $.15 each) and guava.  Onions, 3 bunches for $.50 (100RWF each) and beans, a large container for $4.  People pressed in at all sides and smaller children eyed my purse, hoping for a coin or two to drop.  Larger bills (of $9) were discouraged, as most did not have sufficient change.  

Once we were done our shopping, we followed Mama JoJo as she finished her purchases.  It was interesting to watch the bartering, facial expressions and bantering.  Each item is carefully selected, weighed out and packed in a worn shopping bag.  After squeezing once again through the tight crowd with a rather extreme pungent odour (keep in mind no deodorant or perfume is worn), we managed to get back down to the main road.  The crowd was thicker, as it was approaching 8 am now.  One item left on the list--meat!

With slightly trembling knees, we approached the butcher shop.  The room was tiny, with a large counter.  A part of a cow was hanging with some other unidentifiable pieces of meat (or hide?).  Flies were everywhere and the stomach was spread on the table.  The butcher would chop, weigh and toss the meat on the floor (I couldn't see back to tell if a bin was there).  The chopping was a bit over zealous and bits of meat flew everywhere.  The smells . . .well, let's just say fresh air was a welcome relief.

The walk back to the property was filled with laughter and visiting with friends from everywhere. We were introduced all around.  Hands were shaken or held and pleasantries exchanged.  Once at the home, the produce unpacked and bags stowed until the next market day.  Hands were thoroughly washed and a quiet, open living room in the mission house was a welcome relief.  

Learning, Living, Experiencing

We have not been here a week, but in a way, it seems like a lifetime--in a good way.  Our new world is so far removed from anything familiar.  We knew there would be differences, so this is not entirely unexpected.  Overall, the family is adjusting well.  The kids are connecting with the orphans here and getting settled in the mission house.  

I have to be honest in saying that I really feel for them.  The gravity of what they've given up weighs on me.  They are living "one day at a time" and trying not to focus on what was left behind.  Please pray for clear communication and a quick adaptability for each of them.  They are maintaining incredible attitudes and doing very well in connecting with this new world around them.

For me, cooking is a new challenge.  We are looking carefully at what is available and trying to prepare meals based on that.  Beans, fresh fruit, vegetables and potatoes are readily available, but meat Is pricey, so I've been trying to cook with less meat.  We are all feeling a bit hungrier, but hopefully will adapt soon.  Anything prepared ahead of time costs extra (bread, etc), so it's back to cooking from scratch.  Shopping is fun, too, as you need to visit several shops/markets to find the best prices on things. It's a good learning curve.

Small tasks (like repairing a pig pen) that would be so easy at home, take extra time here because the cost of the wood and finding the right tools.  It's amazing what is taken for granted, isn't it? Oh well, this is Africa (TIA).

We are taking a crash course in "missionary survival" and "running an orphanage 101".  I think I am learning a bit about Kigali and can (maybe) find my way around . . .with a good map.  It's a start.  Learning the ins and outs of running the home feels overwhelming, but Kim and the teens are learning right along side, so it helps tremendously.  Only a couple more days of training and the former director leaves.  Wow!  Thankfully, we can do ALL things through Christ who gives us strength!!

We are seeing small miracles daily.  For example, the missing crate (that is probably unlabelled) is supposed to have arrived in Kigali!  As well, I just found out I can get the birth certificates needed (ours were rejected) shipped right here--for a big price;).  Even the fine threads of communication are being woven between us and the staff here.  

These differences are good, they are expected and they are welcome.  When we chose to step out in faith, we knew that everything familiar would be stripped away and we would be brought on a journey of relying on God in an entirely new way.  It is different, it is good!

Welcome to Rwanda

As I write, the frogs, crickets and night sounds play a symphony.  I am tired, but not exhausted (it's 8:30 pm), the kids are all in bed and all is quiet in the missions house.  It's been a busy 2 days in Rwanda, but we are managing quite well.

The traveling went incredibly smooth.  I was amazed how the younger ones settled into the pace at the airport and enjoyed their plane rides.  When we arrived in Rwanda, we were tired, but functioning.  A delay came when we discovered a crate missing.  Kim has been back to the airport to file a claim and we remain cautiously optimistic.  

The next day, we headed into the city to start the missionary visa application.  There has been some hiccups, so please pray that everything comes together quickly.  

When we arrived back at the home, our kids quickly connected with the children here, especially Joel and Ethan.  They immediately made some new friends and it's been hard to keep him here at the house.  

The teens have been doing well, too.  The uprooting was much more shocking for them, when they had to go from regularly connecting to friends to sketchy Internet.  

Despite the drastic chances, we know God as a plan and we are in good hands. The worries of the missing luggage, visas and all that needs be learned pales in comparison to what can do (and has done).  

On a side note, Nathan was ecstatic to find a keyboard at the church!

I have to sign off, the chorus outside and a bit of jet leg are lulling me to sleep. Please pray for:

Paperwork for visas, that we would have favour

Missing luggage, that it would somehow be returned

Clear understanding as we work with the former director and gain an understanding of everything

Thank you for your prayers and goodnight from Rwanda!

Go

It's once again the middle of the night as I begin to blog.  This time, it's not stress, worry or details keeping me up.  Instead, it's been time with my parents, downloading a few things and the fact that we will be leaving in under an hour for the airport that keeps me from sleep.

The last 48 hours have flown by in a blur--details, packing, repacking, moving, etc kept us all going from morning to night.  Even leaving Lethbridge was later than planned.  It was a scramble to get to the church, run a couple errands and then . . .rest.  After driving up out of the coulees, it felt as though the pressure of being ready stayed behind.  The closer we drove to Calgary, the more relaxed I became.  Whatever was left behind, stays, whatever forgotten, isn't necessary.  Any details remaining, will be fine and taken care of in due time.

We arrived at our hotel and were warmly welcomed.  The staff was quick to accommodate and family was waiting for one last farewell.  It was great to have the Director of Victory Missions come by for a final prayer, encouragement and send-off.  We swam, talked, hugged, prayed and whispered "see you in a little while" to family.  Now, I wait quietly before we wake the kids and meet the shuttle to get us to the airport by 3 am.  

How do I feel?  The goodbyes are hard, but not as painful as I imagined.  I am sure the loneliness will hit later, but for now, there's peace and a quiet resolution that we are firmly pointed in the direction God would have us go.  The reality of Rwanda is here and there's a love and anticipation growing stronger as each hour passes.  I feel like we are cresting a hill after a long hike uphill.  We are tired, but nearing the top where the adrenalin kicks in and the fatigue lifts when you see a destination point ahead.

 

The airports, flights and customs lie ahead, but I am not worried, God will give me the grace and strength I need just for this moment.  We know we are surrounded by love, support, prayers and encouragement.  Thank you, you are making this path much easier for our family.  Here's what the next 36 hours look like:

Flight from Calgary to Montreal 6:00 am departure (4 1/2 hrs)

Layover close to 7 hours

Montreal to Brussels, 7:30 pm departure (8 hours)

Layover 2 hours

Brussels to Kigali, 10:40 am departure (7 1/2 hours)

Arrival in Rwanda:  7:55 pm (11 am Alberta time) Thursday.

Friday morning, we dive right into what needs to be done for paperwork and visas.  

Prayer Requests:

1. traveling mercies on the family--that we would sleep when we need to and that the younger ones especially would be at peace.  

2. no trouble with customs, etc.  may God continue to make our path straight!

 

Success, Seeds, and Sowing

This last week, we were thrilled to be able to connect with friends who were in Mexico building a home and serving where we visited a year ago.  Because it was the same area, our request was to check on the family where we had built before.  It had been so exciting to play a small role in impacting their lives, so we were eager to hear an update.

The world measures success by results--the house, the bank account, the business, stability, etc.  We often like to see that as well (and can easily become discouraged if we don't see those same results).  God seems to have an entirely different perspective.  Remember, when God was choosing a king for Israel?  He reminded the prophet Samuel that while man looks at the outward appearance, He looks at the heart.  

We can look at tragic circumstances, addiction, imprisonment, poverty, etc as failures or devastation, but God sees them as incredible opportunities to let His light shine at very dark times.  In Mexico, the family we built the home for has faced some very tough circumstances, but does that make the trip from last year unsuccessful?  Not at all!  We have no idea of the impact of seeds that were sown.  

I wonder if God measures success more by obedience and willingness to trust Him rather than results?  If our success is based on results from our efforts, it comes back to us.  When God asks us to do something, aren't the results up to Him?  

I think of a farmer planting seeds.  Can he will them to grow?  Does he control the weather?  Can he determine the quantity or quality of harvest?  The farmer's responsibility is to prepare to soil, equip the machinery, watch the weather and work incredibly hard during that planting season, but after he's done all he can do, the results are ultimately out of his hands.  

How is it so different with us?  God may prompt us to help someone, step out in faith, offer an encouragement, etc.  This is part of planting seeds, we don't know the results, but God does and He will bring in the harvest in due season.

It's a TEAM Effort

"Letters of encouragement, prayer, financial support, meals, watching kids, pop bottles, caring for or adopting pets, house sitting, renting, cleaning, moving . . ." too many things to mention when I begin to count our blessings!  The journey to Rwanda has been filled with support and there is no way we could even begin to consider such a feat on our own.  Daily, our family is in awe by the support of those around us.  We are humbled by those who believe in us and overwhelmed by the task before us.  Thankfully, we are not embarking on this journey alone.

Each person who has encouraged, supported and prayed for us is part of this journey.  They have joined the team to Rwanda, even though they may never set foot in the continent of Africa.  As we go to Rwanda, we are representing not only our church, but each and every one who have supported us. It has been and will continue to be a team effort as we serve.  We bring along your love and support to the people we will be working with.  

Goodbyes are challenging, tears are starting, but anticipation of this adventure is building.  We seriously ask for your continued prayer support as we wrap up the final details, travel for 30+ hours, apply for missionary visas and adjust to a new world. 

 

Specifically:

--peace upon our family over the last days in Canada, especially Joel & Ethan

--completeness for the final business details

--strength for our family for the traveling (starting with being at Calgary International Airport at 3:00 am on Wednesday morning).

Thank you for your support and encouragement, we look forward to sharing this adventure with you!

Hiccups, Help & Hope

The 26+ hours of traveling are looking more welcome each day.  Moments to just sit and think (or rest) are getting more rare.  It is the final days of packing up the house.  Once we finished a showing yesterday, we knew we had to pack up aggressively (tomorrow is moving day).  When we found out the house was officially rented--an answer to prayer and a clear reminder God is in control--rooms began to be turned upside-down in prepping for Rwanda.  

As I surveyed the chaos yesterday and sought out a quiet spot to just rest for a moment, I was taken aback when I couldn't find one room undisturbed.  In a way, it was a picture of how my life seems to be.  In the process of surrender, it feels as though nearly every area of my heart has been shaken, rummaged through, sorted and decluttered.  It's been uncomfortable, challenging, but, in a strange sense, comforting.  Fears and insecurities are being brought to light and unloaded.  The thought patterns, habits and way of life I once held so dearly are being shaken and broken so that the new can be carved out.  What's reassuring is that this stage of transition won't last forever.  In our house, the boxes will soon be packed and moved and the luggage for Rwanda will be soon unpacked.  We will settle in and adjust to the new routine.  The state of transition will be over and we will be able to forward in this grand adventure God has laid before us.  

So what are the lessons of this transition we've learned so far?

1. There will be hiccups along the way.  Every time we've moved, there's been something that's come up as an obstacle.  Instead of giving up, God showed us the way through.  

2.  Don't try to do it on your own.  

I look up to the mountains— does my help come from there? My help comes from the Lord, who made heaven and earth! (Psalms 121:1, 2 NLT)

God will be our strength and our Source, all we need to do is trust Him!

3.  If friends offer to help, take it!  There's nothing more humbling than having your friends step in to help when you feel so weak and tired.  It's been hard to accept help, but honestly, we've needed it.  This journey has been draining--physically, emotionally and spiritually, but as we allow friends to step in and help, they become part of the journey.  As believers, we are not meant to walk solo, but to be a team, working together.  We have really appreciated those who've come along-side to be the hands and feet of Jesus.

4. Be honest.  I've tried to rein in my emotions in order to be strong for my family, but the reality is I am feeling the grief of saying goodbye and the sobering reality of surrender just like everyone else.  Yes, we are excited about the move, but at the same time, it's HARD to pack up, say goodbye and leave everything familiar. 

5.  God truly can be trusted.  God knows our hopes and dreams.  He knows what we need and He will provide.  When God calls us to do something, He also makes a way.  Don't try to figure out how He's going to do it, just know He will.

No Weapon

It's midnight and I am curled up with my grandma's afghan, clearing my head before I go to sleep.  I woke up this morning in a panic, thinking I had only one day to finish everything--oh wait, there's another week!  So, ten days from now, will I be curled up on the couch, sorting out my thoughts and sipping decaf tea while hearing the chorus of frogs, toads and crickets serenade me each night?? It's hard to comprehend where we will be on the evening of the 16th...in the meantime, here I sit.

I am reminded that " no weapon formed against me shall prosper".  So, late payments, broken ornaments, stressed spouse and children, painful goodbyes, mounting paperwork and exhaustion will not be weapons to break our family . . .no matter how hard it is!  I can see how overwhelmed my family is and somehow God gives us strength for another task.  I see the weight of surrender and the intense stress of change in my husband's face and somehow God can give an encouraging word or bring along the right people at the right time.  I can even choose to NOT dig into the box of Christmas ornaments that fell from the rafters (to inspect the damage on the collectibles) because I can't change what's happened and if they sit for 2 years, they will still be just fine (deep breath, relax).  I know that when I sit down to tackle the paperwork in front of me, God will direct me clearly.  No weapon formedwill prosper  and only God can keep me in perfect peace.

The intensity of this week honestly doesn't surprise me.  We've seen God directing us through this journey, so why would we be shocked when the "heat" is turned up just before we leave?  It won't be cliches like " night is darkest just before the dawn" that walk our family through--we don't know what tomorrow holds.  What gives me the strength is knowing that no matter what tomorrow brings, God will give me the strength and wisdom I need.  How many times do we need to be reminded to not look at our situation with earthly eyes?  Oh to have heavenly vision and see what God sees!

There's a reminder in the Old Testament, where Elisha is with his servant.  They had been warning the king of Israel where the enemy was at, so the enemy decided to retaliate and attack Elisha.  The city was surrounded and Elisha's servant was terrified.  Elisha asked God to open his eyes and the servant saw the enemy surrounded by chariots of fire and a heavenly army prepared to defend. God prevailed and the enemy defeated.

We need to be reminded that we are not alone.  There are times when circumstances are dire, hopeless or terrifying, this is where we need to ask God to open our eyes so we can see that no weapon formed against us shall prosper.  God doesn't just lead us to our battles, He goes through them with us and fights along side us.  It is in His strength we have Victory!

Speed Bump Ahead

Life has been intense.  Looking back over the last year or two, our family's life had been on high speed with no sign of slowing down.  Just a couple of days ago, one if my teenagers asked me if I thought that God was giving us Rwanda as a speed bump?  A speed bump?  Didn't see that question coming!  I instantly thought of the speed bumps in Mexico.  They were present on the major higways, signs warned of them and if you didn't slow right down to cross them, you could get hurt.  These bumps are placed deliberately to get your attention to slow down in order to protect yourself and others around you.  

So, taking the question deeper, are speed bumps positive or negative?  My first instinct was to get defensive and question the very concept of a speed bump (and yes, I did question my teen on this).  A speed bump is not a roadblock, forcing you to change directions, instead, it is a warning to slow down--immediately. Slowing down for the sake of others and yourself is a benefit to you!  

So how can Rwanda be a speedbump?  First of all, it shifts our focus.  Instead of our family goals being divided, we are streamlined and focused on one common goal.  True, our job descriptions may very, but overall, we are on the same page, heading in the same direction, focused in thought and prayer and even walking a parallel journey.  This shift alone has enabled us to be less scattered and distracted.  We are discovering the joy in working and serving together.

Secondly, a focus on Rwanda includes giving up distractions.  The distractions can be "good (work, school, even too much involvement in church)-- but if they rob us of having the time to listen to God, connect and grow as an individual or as a family, maybe it's too much.  Busyness does not equal productivity or spirituality.  

Thirdly, Rwanda will give us an opportunity to let go of our North American distractions and learn to appreciate what is truly valuable in life.  For all that a developed nation has to offer, there are some beautiful traits that we can end up missing out on.  Quantity often replaces quality and rushing can squeeze out relationship.  The never-ending push to excel or reach the next level can trample dreams and crush hearts.  For our family, specifically, this will be a gift of two years to invest and grow as a family, while experiencing the joys, sorrows, challenges and miracles of an overseas mission.  

We leave with five children and return with two adults.  So, to have this speedbump forcing us to slow down will be an incredible opportunity and gift.  The time spent as a family will build connections, deepen relationships and allow our roots to stretch down deep as our family grows through this experience together.

So Close, so Real

It has been a while since I've had a night where sleep hasn't come easy. I am thankful for the rest I've had, especially the much-needed deep sleep without waking too often in the night.  It's funny how I find myself back to where I was with very young babies, wondering if I will ever sleep again . . .

My mind just cannot compute that it is just 12 days until we head to Calgary to fly to Africa.  Granted, we are not falling off the face of the earth, but Rwanda??? Wow, all I can say is its been quite a journey.  

So, an update on where we are at:  no, no renters yet.  When we first listed our house, I sensed we would have to say "no" to someone.  We did that today.  Thankfully, our teens and Kim and I were all sensing the same thing, so when the references did not come back positive, there was no hesitation.  I am relieved, but . . . still choosing to trust, even when my mind screams something different.  We are working hard at packing up the house.  When we finish deciding on what stays or goes, I will sift through our growing "Rwanda" pile and choose the essentials for the 10 crates, 2 normal and 2 oversize suitcases.  There will also be our 7 carry-on suitcases and 7 backpacks to fill.  We will also have our "wish list" suitcases to be brought with teams at later times.  With the house cleared out and furniture beginning to go, the move is real.  The kids, especially our second youngest, are feeling the strain.  Time is running out to squeeze in "one more visit".  Kim is in a bit of a daze.  His livelihood of the past 18 years has been willingly laid down.  Preparing for change is hard for anyone, but the enormity of what we are doing it is almost paralyzing.  As for me . . .I honestly don't know how to answer when people ask me how I am doing.  I know that the strength that is keeping me going forward is truly from God.  There's no way I could handle any of this on my own.  It's hard to see the sadness in my friend's eyes . . .and hard to hear of the plans for the rest of January onward--after we leave.  

Where do we go from here?  I was so encouraged by a book I read, "Love Has a Face" by Michele Perry (thanks, Lynn, for recommending it:).  What stood out to me was the difference between taking on responsibility and walking in response-ability.  I've been trained to be "good" and "responsible", and have taken on the weight of responsibility without fully understanding the repercussions.   Is God truly asking us to be "responsible" (bearing the weight on our own)?   If so, I would surely be crushed.  The author pointed out that perhaps we are called more to respond to God--His leading, directing and prompting--and step out with His "ability" in obedience.  What's the difference?  By waiting on God, we are surrendering our timing, our control, our very selves, to wait for God to direct us to be His hands and feet.  At the same time, we are no longer carrying the weight of the results or our view of perfection, but trusting in an Almighty God who sees the heart . . .and the end result!  

Taking it back to exactly where I sit tonight, I am to trust the God will show me what needs to be done, day by day and choose to respond in obedience.  Running ahead and taking it all on my shoulders won't benefit anything, neither would ignoring God's voice and staying in bed all day accomplish what needs to be done.  

Philippians 4:13. I can do ALL things through Christ who gives me strength. 

Renae's testimony from fundraiser (pt1)

It is a great honour to be able to share with you today about what God is doing both in my life and in the lives of my family.  Thank you especially to those who’ve worked hard to make this day happen and to you all for coming.  The outpouring of support and encouragement has been overwhelming. I’ve been a part of this church for 18 years and I think that as we look at moving to Rwanda, the most difficult part of this step of faith will be leaving this church family

If I could choose a favourite passage of scripture that best describes my life, it would be Jeremiah 29:11. 

¹¹ 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.

Looking back on the journey God has taken me thus far, I can see His hand on my life.

My mom was only 15 when she discovered that she was pregnant with me.  Despite offers from family to help raise me, she made the very difficult decision to give me up for adoption. 

One of my favourite stories growing up was hearing how my parents came to a shopping mall to pick me up . . . and how my dad almost drove into the ditch several times on my first car ride home.  I was welcomed in as the oldest granddaughter on my dad’s side and the youngest granddaughter on my mom’s side.  I got the best of both worlds.  God’s hand was on me as He placed me in a home that would teach me His ways. 

For as long as I could remember, I wanted to make a difference someway--somehow. I was always a bit shy, and found it much easier to be busy doing something to help bring a smile to someone else’s face.  I took great delight in being able to help my grandmothers—either my dad’s mom, who shared the same yard as me, or my mom’s mom, who lived nearby in Olds.  These precious ladies taught me so much!  Grandmas, don’t underestimate the how much influence you have on your grandchildren.  God will give you amazing moments to pour into those around you. 

I graduated early, at the age of 16 and when I couldn’t make up my mind of what I was to do with my life, I decided to go to Bible school. 

At FGBI, in Eston, Saskatchewan, I was reminded of how much I loved to work with children.  I majored in Christian Education and loved it.  There, my heart was drawn towards missions.  Plans were made to visit a children’s home my grandmother had supported in India.  While I had hoped to go in late fall, plans changed and I found myself preparing for a mission trip with only 10 days notice just as the school year was wrapping up. 

In the middle of the craziness of finals and prep for India, God spoke very clearly to me, “Would I be willing to lay down my life for Him in India?”.