The Final Curtain...

My dearest friends and family in Christ, as the final curtain prepares to close on our blessed journey, I want to thank each of you for going the distance with us through prayer, messages, phone calls, monetary gifts, and all of the other ways you loved and supported us. I pray you have seen some of the results of our efforts. Whether it was much or little, your love and generosity will have an impact that most of us will not see this side of eternity. It is for this, I am most grateful. 

Ella with Marion and Caspher at their sleepover

Last week, we said goodbye to Marion and Caspher (Janet's girls), who headed back to college. We sent them off by having them for a sleepover with Ella. It was a fantastic night, with typical girl laughter and fun. We are all going to miss them, but Ella in particular is feeling their absence. This week, Ella and Jim attended and helped lead Bible study at Rock Baptist Church. The attendance has grown, even since our arrival. It has been a wonderful time of study and fellowship for all of them. 

Yesterday, we celebrated Eli's 16th birthday. Our friend, Sam, arranged a small surprise party for him, which was indeed a joyous event. People who have so little, give so richly. Eli, along with all of us, have been shown amazing love from Sam and his whole family. Oh, how we shall miss them. 

Eli's party at Sam's

                                                                                                

After over eleven weeks in Uganda, we have traveled all over the district of Tororo, to the mountains of Kapchowara (far eastern Uganda) - and because of your prayers and support, we, by the grace of God, were able to evangelize in nine towns/villages, two prisons, three pastor conferences, one youth conference (this week), conduct multiple Bible studies with various churches, street preaching/teaching, children's ministry, radio preaching, ministry to the sick and shut-ins, church renovations, and assisted several churches in strengthening doctrinal teaching and setting up accountability measures, to prevent corruption within the body of Christ. Apart from the aforementioned, there are a few of you who have selflessly chosen to sponsor a child for school - as there is no free schooling in Uganda. We, collectively, have accomplished much, and it is only because of what God has done through us. We are nothing without Him. Although there is still much to do, many to reach, brothers and sisters to help, we pray your support continues that the Lord may use you in these areas. Many of our Ugandan brethren are reenergized and are teaching, unashamedly, the truth of Christ to the fallen world. Our prayer is that they remain in the armor of God, soaked in the Word, and bold before all they speak.

                                 

I know I am a few days late with this blog, but we have been spending time this week with our friends and ministry partners here. With less than one week left, my head is spinning and my heart is so sad. I am overwhelmed with emotion and feelings that I need more time...I haven't done enough, reached enough, nor spent enough time with the people I love so much. Today I stand broken as I think about leaving the sweet souls, my brothers and sisters, this mission field...my beloved Uganda, for an undetermind amount of time. 

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This week, we shall continue our street ministry within TororoTown, home evangelism, women's ministry, a crusade, and we shall conclude with a district wide youth conference on Saturday. 

                                                

   

                                                                             
                               
    
Home is on the horizon, but many a tear shall fall as we draw closer to that moment. Pray the we all can make a final impact for the kingdom of God, during our last few days. May our efforts not be fruitless, and our love and example be that of Christ Jesus. Our prayer is that we be remembered for the message we preached, the love we shared, and the life we live. Let it be Christ who is seen, not us.

"Being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus." ~ Philippians 1:6

"This is the day that the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it." How this rings true for me each day. Every day is a gift, and one we are not owed. Each life-breath comes from the Creator and Giver of all things. Each time we travel to Uganda, I am brought low by the realization that God entrusted us to bring the greatest message to this part of the world. What a responsibility! But, we work diligently to carry this mission out faithfully - and, now with only two weeks remaining here, we want to invest ourselves deeper than we ever have before.

When I think about all of the memories we have made previously, as well as this year, it makes my heart so happy and it overflows with joy.  It is hard to believe we've already been here ten weeks and how fast the time has slipped by. While there are things we do without here in Uganda, it is much more of a privilege and honor to serve here, rather than a sacrifice. It can be difficult to be so far from our friends and family, but we have our Ugandan family here too, which has made our lonely times so bearable.

While we have traveled to many places within Uganda, Tororo has a special place in our heart, and it is where we call home while we are here. This year has been such a special one, as we were able to share this adventure with so many others. We pray the team that came with us will never forget their time here and all the lives they touched with the Gospel of grace. Eli and Ella have continued reaching souls throughout the towns and villages - particularly spending time downtown Tororo. They preach to the market vendors, taxi drivers, and shop owners, in hopes that, even one, will hear the truth and have their eyes opened.

The kids spoke to one young man, named Simon, who had been in church his whole life, yet had never heard about repentance. They told him about sin, repentance, forgiveness, and grace. While not expecting to see him again, we were blessed to see Simon in church with us on Sunday. We took him to lunch and talked for hours about Christ and what it means to serve Him. He told us he would meet us again next Sunday too! It was such a blessing for all of us.

We've been trying to make a few more different and fun memories this time. For instance, Ella invited Janet's daughters, Casphar and Marion for a sleepover. It was fantastic, as they watched movies, did each other's hair, and talked all night  - in typical girl fashion. We also took our friend Sam out for the day. As most of you know, Sam has been paralyzed for 7 years, and hasn't had a day out since then, so you can imagine the joy and excitement.

So, although we've missed a lot at home, as well as the first day of Homeschool Co-op, we have gained even more though friendships, experiences, and memories than we could ever hope to imagine. Thinking about leaving makes me sad, because we never know exactly how long it will be until we can return. But, God remains ever faithful, and we trust He will continue to bring us back at His perfect time. Until that day, we rejoice in all God has done for us and through us.




This week, we will continue in market street ministry, as well as finishing up plans for the youth conference in less than two weeks. Please lift up the team in prayer, as we prepare to finish strong, and that God will continue to be the focus of all we do. For those of you who have partnered in ministry with us, your generosity helped provide clothes, backpacks, and school fees for a few needy children, three Pastor Training Conferences, Bibles for churches and new believers, repairs and renovations on four area churches, and evangelism and doctrinal resources for area church leadership. You will never know the impact of such gifts this side of eternity, but please know, you have blessed more people than you will ever realize, and for this we are so grateful.

Blessings and Grace to you all!

A Time to Live...A Time to Die

Uganda is our family's second home. I truly love it here. However, out of all the places in the world, it's one I would have never chosen to fulfill the Great Commission.  As I told a friend this week, about being here in Uganda..."it's hard, smelly, filthy, uncomfortable, exhausting...beautiful, fulfilling, lovely, and exciting all at the same time. The spiritual and physical poverty is so extreme...and many try to take advantage of you because of your assumed wealth..." This place and the people have a hold of my heart now, and being able to share it with the team that came this year brought me so much joy. It is odd and fantastic how God places people and places in your path, in order for you to be used for His glory!

Me...in the middle of Uganda - well, sort of

This week was chock full of ministry, challenges, and emotions. We completed evangelism in the far village of Muwusi. It was a very wonderful experience, with difficult days. We fought sickness and stubborn people, while watching the Holy Spirit open the eyes of others throughout the week. Eli preached to a witch-doctor, who was very receptive to the message. Jim, then led a Bible study about husbands and wives. Although this message came straight from Scripture, it went against many cultural practices here in Uganda. It was a tough message, but it prompted many wonderful questions and, seemingly, some understanding. 

Sadly, many couples here in Uganda (to include many pastors), are not legally married. The main reason is money. Ugandans have an expectation for marriage, that is unattainable for so many. In such a poverty stricken nation, it is foolish to spend one's hard earned or inherited money on a one day event. Yet, like many Americans, if the loving couple does not have enough money to host the event of the century - no marriage. This consists of "The Introduction", or more commonly described as an engagement party on steroids. So much money is spent on this event, which is where the bride price is paid. *If you've read previous years of the blog, you will remember the bride price. It is the price the groom is expected to pay to compensate the family for the loss of their daughter (worker). Sadly, this practice has been abused by many, and unreal expectations are placed on these young men, (5+ cows, 5+ goats, furniture, clothes, and a plethora of other things). Rather than realizing the family is taking away from their daughter's new life, many place this burden on the man, because of greed. Not until this fulfillment is met, can a couple marry. Even those who have married without paying the dowry, are shunned by the community and their own families. If no dowry is paid during the life of the couple, when the wife dies, the clan will not bury her until it is paid! Thus, many live together, have families, but are not married - causing other problems when it comes to biblical practices versus cultural tradition. Much prayer is needed for this practice, as it complicates the role and requirements of many in ministry, especially pastors, elders, and deacons, particularly with regard to what the Bible says.

Jim and Julius teach on husbands and wives

     

 It has been an emotional week, as our dear friends have lost people close to them. There have been burials throughout our time here, but this week has been extremely difficult for our friends...and our sleep (due to the wailing and loud music). Loss is something this culture experiences frequently. Unlike Americans, Ugandans are all too familiar with death. Yet, though accustomed to the wailing and weeping, few are truly prepared for the icy hand that steals away life's breath. After all, most of us don't wake up thinking..."Hey, I could die today. I wonder how I should spend my last few hours on earth." No. In fact, I venture to say most people steer clear from such talk, and when it is brought up, most are quite uncomfortable.  Few of us want to think about dying, because we truly love life. But death is inevitable, and whether we ignore it or not, it will one day knock on our door. The question is, will you be ready? It was the reality of a few burials in a row, that had my head reeling..."Where are they now? Did they know and follow Christ? Did anyone preach to them?..."  As our time here grows short, I cannot help but feel as if I've not done nearly enough. There are so many...still so much to do. I do not want to miss an opportunity, here or back home, to throw the only lifeline there is, to those still on their way to hell. 

Each time we go out to the field we are met with some who are passive and passionless, some who are stubborn and angry, and others who are broken and hungry for truth. When we tell others of the saving love of Christ, we begin by helping them see their lost condition in comparison to the perfection and holiness of God. If someone does not believe they are sick, why would they seek medical attention. This is why Jesus told the Pharisees, "It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick...For I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners." (Matthew 9:12-13)

Eli preaching to a witchdoctor

Our prayer is for each of you who have joined us through this journey, by taking time to read our blog each week, to continue to pray for each soul who has heard the message. Pray for the hearts who have received the Word, that it would take root. Our time here is short, and we do not want to waste a moment, but at the same time, we are very tired. I am taking a lesson from our young American Olympian swimmer, Katie Ledecky. She told the press that during the 800m race, she wanted to throw up on the last lap, but she just went for it, thus capturing her 4th gold medal. I wondered, how much more effective might we be, if we had the same attitude about ministry. Pray that God continues to sustain us to go the distance, without regret or holding back - that we leave everything, all we are, and all we have to offer, in the field, and in the minds and hearts of those we've come to love.

The haunting African sky before a storm

"All people are like grass, and their glory is like the flowers of the field; the grass withers and the flowers fall, but the Lord endures forever." ~ 1 Peter 1:24-25 

Truth, Trust & Trials

If you read last week's blog, you know that it wasn't my usual, upbeat, excited adventure. It was difficult, and perhaps harsh. Monday's are the only opportunity I find time to blog, and today finds me exceptionally sad and annoyed. I can think of a handful of reasons for this, but I can't seem to pinpoint one. Perhaps it's people who turn a blind eye to truth, who go back on their word, or don't know the power of hurtful words. Maybe it's circumstances which I have no control over. Maybe I'm tired and homesick. One thing I know, that has me feeling such a way, are those who mask as agents of light, preying on the weak and weary, misleading, lying, and taking advantage of their need. This week, I've encountered more than my fair share. I am still needing to biblically address some of them, so I cannot name names. But please pray for my own heart to handle things righteously, as well as those who are deceivers or blindly following, to see the light of truth, repent, and know that there is forgiveness, hope, and blessings in the presence of God.

    

We traveled to a distant village this week, that took us down a very  long, dust-laden path. This village/town had more Muslims than other places we've previously gone. It seemed, for some of us, every other home was Muslim. Some of the men were friendly, but the majority of women were rude and unkind. I was chased twice from a home when I began explaining the Gospel and how there is no comparison with Islam. I even pleaded with her to listen, as my message might have eternal consequences.  

 

Ella worked with students at a local school, where the Director is also the pastor, and the school and church are in the same building. As she taught throughout the day, she realized her translator was not translating what she was saying "exactly". As she mentioned God, she heard the word "Allah". Ella quickly stopped and asked the teacher what she was saying. The teacher explained that since Muslim children attend the school, they liked to balance the stories to meet the beliefs of all the children. Ella was like, (paraphrased) "NO! That is not why I am here, and that is NOT what I said! You tell them just what I said. Nothing more, nothing less." Needless to say, this took all of us by terrible surprise. Thus confirming a terrible situation within the church/school...they were employing Muslims. Now, while we encourage children of all beliefs to attend so they hear the true Word of God, employing those with a faith diametrically opposed to Christianity is not beneficial to the staff, the parents, or most importantly, the children. 

The very next day, the team went to the pastor, translators, and teachers to talk to them about proper doctrine and practices within a Christian church/school. At times, it seemed as if the guys were talking to a wall. The teachers consist of only one that attends that specific church, four Muslims, and three from the Miracle Center (Word of Faith practices). These frustrations, coupled with the challenges out in the field, made this village especially difficult. We were faithful in bringing the message, but the overall feel was burdensome, leaving us heavyhearted. Not to mention, we got two flat tires on the way home. Whoohoo!

On Friday, we revisited another place, where we had hoped to find things the pastor and staff had promised to do, undone. We expected to hear truthful testimonies from those within the care of fellow believers, but it was evident that those we spoke to were coached about how to answer and report. I dare say, my trust in certain people has been shaken. This is not at all saying I've lost hope. There have been brothers and sisters since our first arrival four years ago, who have been more faithful than family. But it pains me, that some we intended to help, have put doubt in our minds, and trust is a difficult thing to win back. My hurt and disappointment run deep, but I know God is ever-faithful in a very faithless generation.

Despite my sorrow and rough week, I do not love Uganda any less! She is still where I call my econd home, and where God has called us to minister and proclaim His Gospel. With that statement, I realize, we now have under one month left in country. This sends a sort of anxiety through me thinking about how soon it will come to an end, not knowing when we may return.  I also know I have many obligations upon returning home. I do not want to be focused on what awaits, but rather, what there is yet to do, so please pray for our time remaining, that is the most valuable and productive yet. 

Heartbreak and Blessings

As our team approaches the downhill slide for our time here, I have a flood of emotions with regard to all we have experienced and shared during this time in Uganda. Many of these blog entries have been about where we've gone, what we've had the honor of doing, and our prayers for the areas we cover. However, there are untold stories...some that have truly left me broken. I wrote about the mountains of Kapchowra and the beauty of God's majesty, along with the ministry we were able to do...but I failed to write about the tragic, cultural practices that perpetuate darkness and death. Kapchowra and the surrounding areas suffer from one of the largest HIV/AIDS populations we have experienced here. The practice of tribal, group circumcision is one of them, as well as similar practices on females, which imprisons so many in the bondage of disease and sorrow. While our mission is that of evangelism, we cannot turn a blind eye to the plight of so many. Please pray that the light of Christ will reveal the darkness of such practices, and that those who stand for justice and truth will lead others to stand for the same. My heart aches as I look into the eyes of children, who's lives are being cut short, due to the shameful, sinful practices of the adults they trust. May God have mercy on them all.

We were privileged to spend the past week in the village of Kochomo. This brought another bout of sadness and reality to the effects of sin and why we are here. This village previously encountered "Baptist missionaries" who, while claiming Christ with their mouths, denied him by their greedy, corrupt lifestyles. All of this took place without the knowledge of the churches back home, who supported these people. This painful experience made the church leaders very skeptical about our visit. However, we soon displayed that our hearts and motives were pure and true. As we traveled home to home, we were met with story after story of so many hopeless lives. One young wife and mother of four is a Christian, who married a non-Christian. He told her that if she continued to go to the "born-again" church, she can find herself another husband. Since then, she has failed to attend church, suppressing her faith to the point of near despair. Another young girl of 17, had a baby at 16, with no idea of who the father is. Because she cannot finish school (as she is caring for the baby), she will either get pregnant again or prostitute herself out in order to feed her child(ren). We have had local area politicians ask us for prayer as they struggle with alcohol abuse. We have had those claiming to have evil spirits ask us for prayer, as they are tormented. And although we pray that God's will be done as we request healing, we know there is NO POWER in us! The ONLY power that can heal is that of Christ Jesus. We cannot cast out demons, or heal the sick, or turn anyone from sin - but we serve the One who can.

Kochomo was a great blessing, and we are thankful to God for the opportunity to serve there. We only wish we had more time. We experienced some soft hearts, but as with every place we've gone, there was much rejection too. Some shake their fists in anger, while others chase us out to the road. We have had both welcoming words and insults alike, yet, Christ is always glorified. Ella was, once again, in her favorite element...surrounded by many children. She is indeed a kid magnet. Not only do the children love her, but so do all the people. Her love for each child she meets will be long remembered, even after she returns home. Ella brings a bold passion to the field, as she presents the Gospel to anyone who will listen. She wastes no opportunity. Even as we are waiting to go out in teams, she finds someone around the area or on the road to talk to. She even had the chance to minister to an older man, who was partly responsible for leading Uganda to her independence. On Sunday, the man showed up at church for the very first time.

There are churches here that are in need of financial assistance. Our team was able to raise some funds for a few of them, and some back home are committed to this cause. For this we are eternally and sincerely grateful. But so many others have no help. Some churches have mere mud walls that erode with the elements, creating an unsafe shelter, others have no secure windows to protect against thieves and vandals, while another church has many children they help care for, with the meager funds they receive at offering. Please note that this is not a plea for money. I am only bringing to light, the struggles many churches here face. I do recognize we have many economical challenges at home too. I do ask you to pray for these churches here and at home, as they are trying to be a light in the darkness, and a shelter for those in need.

Finally, my burden this week goes beyond Uganda. As I catch glimpses of the news back home, and the sorry state of our nation, I am left in tears. It seems the world has clearly gone mad. While politics seems to have the headlines, I am concerned about things closer to home. Even before leaving the U.S. to come here, I have personally witnessed many I love and care for, fall into sin or at least celebrate things that are clearly an abomination to God. Please don't stop reading! This is not my judgement on anyone. I write this out of love, compassion, and fear for the souls of my friends. Even many who call themselves believers have fallen into this trap. They claim, "God is Love", which is indeed true. But do not deceive yourselves by ignoring or trying to cancel out the equally important attributes of God...He is HOLY, He is TRUTH, He is JUST...He is JUDGE! He hates sin and will punish those who remain in it. Oh friends...I have no more words, except those I plead with you in tears, REPENT! Do not continue in things that the Bible clearly warns against. It is not to take away your pleasure, but rather, lead you to life. Stop calling good - evil, and evil - good. Love what God loves - Hate what God hates. If you are a believer, share this...tell others. Do not stand idly by, condemning those with your thoughts and words, without proclaiming the need to repent in hopes that some will be saved. Do you hate sinners so much that you won't tell them the truth about sin? Have you forgotten that you too were once in their shoes? Do not be a Jonah, wishing destruction on Ninevah. Be the one who pleads with those who are blind, deaf, and heading to death. Be the light!

 

We have just over one month left here, and my heart is heavily burdened with what is yet left to do. If you take the time to read this blog, please take the time to pray for us and all those we meet. Pray for the people, pray for the churches, pray for Uganda, and pray for America. As believers, we know the hope we have will one day be a reality, as we see Jesus, face to face, and dwell with him forever. Never lose sight of that hope.

"You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden." ~ Matthew 5:14