Messengers of the King

This week we finished our third week of ministry in country. We also had Pastor Jon Wixtrom from home join us for the next three weeks. We spent the week evangelizing in Kidera with Pastor Joseph Odongo. Since the team arrived here, we have kept the mindset and attitude of, not ones who can save, but rather, ones carrying a message from their King. This has provided a freedom from guilt - for those who refuse to heed the message. But also, they carry a confidence and joy as they deliver the Good News throughout the land.

     

While in Kidera, our team was blessed to spend time with students from Mama's Heart Nursery and Early Primary School. We had opportunities to teach, play, sing and dance with the children. Ella spent a whole day as a teacher, while the rest of us took to the field with evangelism. On Sunday, Emily taught the kids, while Ella and Sydney helped. Working with the children was a fantastic experience. Jack had another opportunity to teach adult Bible Study, which was wonderfully received and encouraged good discussion. 

The people of Kidera were very welcoming and treated us like family. And while only God knows who is responding to the message, it serves as a great encouragement to see people each Sunday that we reach during the week. 

                                                   

As of today, all of us have been downtown Tororo at least once. It is quite a sight for the westerner. Shops, shanties, and open air market vendors litter the area. And with regards to litter, it adorns the streets and walkways, like flowers in a garden.

But despite the strange sights and smells, it always promises a beautiful sunset. In fact, Ugandan sunrises and sunsets are stunning, and the magnitude of their beauty cannot be captured in photos. Even more beautiful, are the faces of the people we meet. How privileged we are to be part of such a ministry that brings life.

  

Five members of our 9 person team have only 2 1/2 weeks left! Time is flying too quickly. They are getting excited thinking of returning home, yet sad to leave the wonderful new friends they've met here. Our prayer is that all of you back home will continue to pray for their remaining weeks here, that the Lord will continue to use them for His glory. I also pray that you will hear their stories and be encouraged and strengthened in your own walk and faith. We pray you will all be proclaimers of the truth - messengers of the King!

Now, we are featuring thoughts from another team member - Sydney Wixtrom (16 years old)...

"I have really enjoyed my time in Uganda and I can't believe I have just over two weeks left. The ministry has been wonderful. I have gotten to speak to very different people while evangelizing. Sometimes, I leave a home joyful and encouraged. Other times, I leave exhausted and discouraged. Yet, no matter the response of the people, I know I am where God has called me and that gives me an incredible peace of mind."

"Preach the word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke and encourage  - with great patience and careful instruction." ~ 2 Timothy 4:2