For the past eight weeks, I have been in California reconnecting with family & friends and sharing stories, with anyone willing to listen, of what is taking place in the health ministry in Kipkaren. I have been speaking on behalf of those who do not often have a voice: widows, orphans, the sick & poor. Over the past 5 ½ years, God has been confronting my tendencies towards complacency and reshaping my worldview so that these are the voices and cries I do hear. I want to say thank you to the many of you who were willing to listen and compelled to respond. Thank you for your compassionate actions. Personally, I was humbled & truly encouraged by the ways I was genuinely received and embraced by my family & friends as well as the many I have come to meet along the way.
I must remember...
I don't often admit it, but I have a memory problem. In the busyness of life, I can be quick to forget that God has been faithful. As I dream about where God is leading and prepare to return to Kenya, I have also felt the need to be still & simply remember the things He has already done. 1 Samuel 7 documents a time when Samuel did just this. The army of Israel had just been granted a miraculous victory over the Philistines as God had used thunder to confuse their army. The story goes on to say: "Then Samuel took a stone and set it up between Mizpah and Shen, and called its name Ebenezer (Stone of Help), saying, 'Thus far the Lord has helped us'" (1 Samuel 7:12). As I look back upon this past year of ministry in Kipkaren; I, too, must say: "Thus far the Lord has helped us". There are faces that come to my mind of people who did not expect to live to see 2005 and are still alive today to speak the praises of God. There is HIV testing accessible at the village level and HIV medications available to those already infected. There is a community of individuals who are willing to extend compassionate care to the sick, to orphans & widows. Where once there was only fear, a deep sense of hope has been born.
On Monday, I will return to Kenya knowing that there is much work to be done. There are challenges to face and dreams to dream. However, as I reflect upon what God has already done, I am filled with thanksgiving. I have come to know the Lord as My Helper and am learning to trust Him with what lies ahead.
CD release...
Over the past year, I had an opportunity to record an album of songs I wrote. The lyrics are reflections from my journey of following Christ. Traditional Kalenjiin chants were recorded in Kipkaren and are interwoven throughout the project. If you are interested in purchasing a CD, please make checks payable to ELI ($15/CD). All proceeds of this album will go towards the Empowering Lives International's Health Ministry. Please be sure to include your mailing information and mail to PO Box 67 Upland, CA 91785.
Thank you again for your continued partnership and support in ministry & life. Juli
Thank you again for your continued partnership and support in ministry & life. Juli
Tax-exempt donations may be sent to Empowering Lives International
PO Box 67 Upland, CA 91785 Phone 909.476.6822
