Saturday – “Yes, we really are in Kenya!”

Pictures of Bible Clubs in Kibera

“Jambo! Karibou!”  Enthusiastic greetings of welcome from the time we walked through customs at the airport to our arrival at the retreat center.  Hospitality here makes you feel so very much at home.  After such a long journey, we all enjoyed a great night’s sleep, ready to see Kenya in the daylight this morning.  It always seems a bit surreal to leave one day in the US and wake up in Africa……to the sound of exotic birds and the sight of lush greenery and beautiful flowers that surround the center.  And there is perhaps no greater welcome than that of the voices of children as we made our way into Kibera, the largest slum in Africa, where more than one million people live within 600 acres.  Part of Homecare ministry is to minister to orphaned and vulnerable children (OVCs), of whom there are thousands in Kibera.  To reach out to these precious children, there are six Bible clubs situated throughout Kibera where children are invited, loved, introduced to Jesus and learn from His Word.  Volunteers faithfully love on these children every Saturday.  Knowing how little some of these children get to eat, part of the program involves a breakfast snack and a hearty lunch.  So these children are fed physically and spiritually on a regular basis.  Our team split into two groups so we could visit two clubs.  We arrived as the children were having their porridge snack, eagerly drinking it down and greetings us wide eyed and curious.  Club began with singing; I think nothing must thrill the heart of God like the praises of children!  When we entered our center, the teacher had already written Ephesians 6:1 on the blackboard, “Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right….”  As I planned to share the story of Jonah with them, this was a great opener to talk about what obey means and why we should obey God and our parents.  They listened intently, answered questions thoughtfully, revealing that many of them knew this story and what it meant.  It’s wonderful to see children being taught the scriptures, and importantly, understanding what they mean to their lives.  After more singing, we moved outside for some games and activities.  Our group returned to meet up with the rest of the team at the Salvation Army Center where they had been with their Bible club. Diana and Maureen had shared Bible lessons with the children and they had moved outside where Nick had become a human jungle gym with several little ones crawling up and down his back.  Each team member was instantly engaged with the children, loving, comforting, laughing, and singing.  It’s easy to connect with these sweet ones who so desperately want loving attention.  Somehow the surroundings of Kibera fade when you gaze into the their faces.  It’s not the abject poverty, muddy trails, mud and stick homes, lack of water, power, and sanitation that draws your attention.  Yes, it’s all there, but the eyes of these children, longing and anxious to feel loved and special, that connects. 

After Bible clubs, we had the privilege and joy of going to the home of Judy Mbugua, Tirzah’s director for Kenya and founder of Homecare Fellowship.  When I think of an open, welcoming center of hospitality, it is their home!  Day in and out, people move in and out, always welcome, shown gracious hospitality and served great food.  We had the joy of spending time with Judy, some of her family, and others who work at Homecare.  We’re grateful to have had that time with her since she has to leave tomorrow for a conference in South Africa, and it was the best orientation to Kenya one could have.

What a sweet introduction into ministry in Nairobi!  Our first day has been full, sweet, and full of new friendships.  We look forward to worship tomorrow, which is always a highlight of our time in Kenya.  We thank God for our safe journey here, for the gracious care we are receiving at Homecare Retreat Center, and our wonderful hosts.

We will try to update you daily, as internet is available.  If there is a gap, just know that sometimes there is no power or internet connection, but we are well, getting over jet lag, and anxious to experience all the Lord has for the coming week.  Thank you for praying for us!

Diane for the team