Healing 2 The Nations ~ Dr. Claudia R. Wintoch ~ Blog May 2006

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Wednesday, May 31, 2006

Shock

Simeon called me tonight and asked, whether he could come over to talk to me. I said yes, wondering what he wanted to talk about this time, what he would complain about. These past few days, things were not working out with him at all.

I spent some quality time with the Lord - it's been a while since I had such a sweet time with Him. And He also shared some insight into Simeon's situation.

Simeon finally showed up, and set up the question he wanted to ask me, by saying, I might be shocked by it. Then he asked, whether I saw us getting married in the future. The way he put it, I didn't quite understand, who were supposed to marry, so I asked whether he talked about the two of us, and he said yes. I was shocked and answered with NEVER. I spoke very openly to him after that, told him where these feelings had started, how the enemy had come in through the door he had opened. I shared with him how I had once fallen into the same trap, when I was in need of much healing in my life. I did him I was shocked this was still even a question for him! I thought I had made myself clear last summer, when he sent his email telling me God wanted us to get married. Obviously not. Tonight he said he understood and that I had been very clear. I did ask whether I had ever given him a reason to have any hopes I'd marry him, but he didn't reply.

Purchases For Our Kids

Today we bought two more mattresses - next week the 3 kids and Paul are moving into the house. I also bought 4 metal boxes, one for each, to put their stuff inside. They were so happy, and immediately put everything inside.

Since I'm leaving for Paris tomorrow, partly to do shopping for them, they have a list of stuff they want. First on the list: an X-Box or the like to play video games.

Kids' Program With American Kids

Today was the big day the missionary kids in Bamako had been looking forward to. 9 American kids and 4 adults showed up today to do the program for our kids. One of kids spoke Bambara, and none French. They started with games, three different ones for different age groups, and they all enjoyed themselves. We had about 20 street kids today, many new ones again. After the games, they did one song, which the kids enjoyed. Then they did a skit - the Good Samaritan. After that, I reviewed last week's verse with them, as well as the teaching. Our visitors were in the back listening and watching, until it was their turn again, with another song, and then another skit. Since they hadn't prepared a gospel presentation, I gave a short gospel message myself and nearly every kid got up to give their lives to Jesus. We prayed together, and the program was over. We still had a few minutes until the meal, so they all played games again. All our visitors stayed for the meal, and mingled with the Malian kids. It was great! I believe the Americans were touched and will come back to minister to the kids.

Our Own Doctor!

Before any of them had left, Doctor Alan showed up - or "Docteur Alain". He's a Christian doctor whose number I was given, and he stopped by to get to know us. We talked for some time, and he's coming back tomorrow, to remove the stitches on Abdias's head. He seemed very interested and in favor of being our doctor, helping us with what is necessary - accidents, vaccinations, nutrition. He saw Sarata - who is visibly malnourished - and Hama. I also told him I'd like for our kids to have a healthy diet. Tomorrow he's gonna give some advice to Fanta, on how to feed her daughter, and on how to cook better for our own kids. Praise God!

Marie's Departure

The time has come for Marie to leave. Tomorrow morning, at 6 am, I'm gonna take her to the bus station. All three kids have said they'd come with me. Marie has been a blessing, and she'll be greatly missed. In many ways, she would be the right person to stay with us and watch and teach the kids. Marie is leaving for 4 months, and after that she's getting married.

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Tuesday, May 30, 2006

Days Of Rest & Shopping Ahead

Today I picked up my plane ticket - I'm really going to Paris this weekend. I'm leaving Thursday night, after Bible School, and I'm flying back Tuesday night. Right now I'm so tired, so frustrated, I just want to get away.

Today we tried to go to the training center with Hama again, but the lady was still not there. They said she's working at the main center downtown right now. That means, it will have to wait till my return for us to go there. The only one happy about this is Hama, who's been there twice, without being hurt (in his reasoning).

Since we came back early again, we did a few hours of school. In the afternoon, Jean showed up, and we had no choice but to pick up the fridge - whether it works or not, I'll find out soon enough.

Back home, after having picked up my plane ticket together with Sekouba, we did an hour of French class - songs, games, dialogs. The kids enjoyed it!

Later, the kids wanted to see a movie again. They've watched one a day these last three days. I gave in, and they watched a Christmas movie. Since I hadn't watched it yet myself, I stayed to watch it with them. I enjoyed being with my boys. Abdias was on my left, and Sekouba on my right, leaning against their Mom.

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Monday, May 29, 2006

Boom, Boom, Boom,....

And another shot.... BOOM. No more arrows, now it's shots. To the point that I suddenly felt sick physically and had to lay down for an hour, praying, before being able to get back up, having received an answer from the Lord for a particular situation.

It feels like we're in an earthquake and everything is falling apart all around. My immedate thoughts were, that which is built on the rock will stand.

But right now, everything is falling apart, and I don't know how much will stand in the end, if anything at all. Will I myself stand?

If the shots were coming from outside, it'd be one thing. But they are coming from inside. The church is killing itself.

Times of transition are rarely fun, and I guess, that's when the uncommitted leave.

The love of money is the root of all evil, and I've never seen a place where people love money like here. Truly, the poor are in bondage to the poverty spirit, to Mammon, as much as the rich. In Mali, it's the one goal everyone has in life - to make money.

Today I was confronted twice (or three times) with that spirit in people, in our own team. If they cannot get rich being in this church, working with me, they're free to go.

Follow-Up Hospital Visit

In the morning, Seybou's family of four went to the NGO with me, to start Hama's training. However, the lady wasn't there, and so we had to go home.

Back home, Paul and Abdias got in the car, and we went to the big hospital on the other end of town to go the brainscan results. God was gracious to us. Arriving there, we found out they don't give out results before the afternoon, and it was only just after 10. But they were kind to us, and had everything ready within half an hour. The picture shows Abdias with his results - everything's fine. Then we even found a nurse who changed his bandage - and we didn't even have to pay anything additionally!!!

Tomorrow morning, I'm taking Seybou and family to the NGO again, to start Hama's training. On Wed we're having our kids' program, and so we won't be able to start our school again until Thu.

I desperately need a break, a vacation, and am praying about going to Paris next weekend. I need to decide by tomorrow.

I solicit your prayers for the the current situation!!!

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Sunday, May 28, 2006

Painful Changes

Once more I was amazed as the Lord put the words into my mouth this afternoon, in our service, as I was preaching and communicating what God had spoken to me this week. I was reading 1.Cor 12 on the church being a body made of many members, and Eph 5 on the church being glorious, without spot or wrinkle. I told them, when you prune a tree, it hurts, it may think it's gonna die, but in the end it's gonna be even more beautiful. I thought I'd be preaching shorter, but I ended up talking for an hour and a half, aware of God's leading, as He was giving me pictures, illustrations, and passages.

I informed them that we won't have any more movie nights, no more English class, and the services would change their format. Also, we'd be going to our property in Yirimadio on Saturdays to reach out to our new neighbors. It's time to truly become a family. We need to go where the wind is blowing, do what the Father is doing. No need to just do something because it's always been done that way. That would be religion.

Abdoulaye's New Name

For weeks I've felt uneasy about Abdoulaye's name, wanting to look up its meaning. I finally did. It means "servant of Allah". I found "servant of Yahweh" which is Obadiah. In French, that's Abdias. So today I told him all that, and that his new name now was Abdias. At first he was happy, but later the other two kids laughed at him when they heard the English version of his name, and now he doesn't like his name any more. Marie was expecting a friend called Abdias tonight - I hope he comes so that he can talk to him.

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Saturday, May 27, 2006

Thank God For A Christian Carpenter

One thing that's very frustrating in Mali is that any person you do business with only thinks of money, without doing quality work, or really caring. Like the never-ending fridge story; this week I went there 5 days out of 6, just to see that the repaired fridge works. No success.

Now that we have to have 2 bunkbeds made, I sent an email to the missionary community to find a good carpenter, rather than the ones who've done our furniture so far. They've been expensive, and after a few months the chairs fall apart etc. I was overjoyed when I found out about a Christian carpenter, even pretty close to us, who has his shop on the compound of the Baptist mission. This morning we were there, and I gave him the job. I will have quality work and by an honest man. Wow! Next Saturday he'll come put the beds together at the house: Then Paul will move in as well. That means I have this week to get a daily schedule together, so that the kids get some discipline in their lives.

Early Start Today

I'm not a morning person, and I usually get up at 8 o'clock. Today it was 6:30 - and not planned. Strong wind started blowing, and then the rain came. I got up to see whether Abdoulaye is okay, and had the other two kids come inside - they were already up having breakfast. Marie usually gets up early for her job, so she soon joined us - the perfect time for worship and Bible study. We sang a few songs in Bambara, and then I read 1.Cor 13 and 1.Jn 4, the passages on love. Then we all prayed, each one of us. By the time we were done, the rains had stopped, and the two went back outside, while Abdoulaye lay back down.

Abdoulaye is pretty miserable that he cannot get up or go outside. He needs to rest, not move around. In any case, he's doing really well. I think the brainscan was really quite exaggerated. We'll have the results on Monday.

Prayer Meeting

Paul practiced the Bambara songs for the service tomorrow with the kids, and then it was time for the prayer meeting. It was interesting to see who was there - like a confirmation of what God has been speaking to me this week, about the changes to be made. It was just the core team who was here today, the core family. The ones who will be here all the time in the future. Tonight we took care of something necessary for Hama's healing, and since he's starting his therapy on Monday. Seybou told me a few days ago, that they had once gone to a Chinese doctor for acupuncture to heal Hama. They repented of that, asked God's forgiveness, and we broke it over Hama. Now he can be healed.

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Friday, May 26, 2006

Running Out Of Steam

Our weekly movie night has just started, and as much as I'd like to be there like always, I had to excuse myself because I simply cannot do any more today. I just want to REST. I ask for your prayers to sustain me in this time. Changes will be made in this ministry here in Mali, and I'm gonna announce those on Sunday.

Abdoulaye's Brainscan

Abdoulaye slept well, his first night in the "prayer room". I got up early this morning, after a rather short night, so that we could go to the hospital for Abdoulaye's brainscan. I was thankful that Marie had today off - possibly her last day off before her trip. Marie and Abdoulaye got in the car, and off we went to the big hospital that is on the other end of town, on a hill. None of us had ever been there before. We parked the car and went in, to the reception desk. The guy there told us we'd have to get an appointment first. I told him, that this was an emergency, as he had an accident yesterday, and that we were told at the other hospital to come TODAY to have it done. Finally, he told us to go with a staff member to the radiology department, and off we went. We got there, and the nurse went in to the doctors. When she came back out, we had an appointment for TUESDAY. I objected, saying, that if he hurt himself yesterday, that that was a little long - what if he was seriously injured? We went back in, and talked to the guys there. Finally, they gave in and said, we could have it done today. We were sent back to the reception desk to pay for it. I expected this to be expensive, and it was - $100 (80€). Once more I asked myself how any Malian could pay that kind of money. Money truly rules this country - even more that Austria or the US.

The brainscan paid, we returned to the radiology, where we had to sit down and wait. There were lots of people sitting there as well, and I expected sitting there for the rest of the day. However, thank God I was wrong. We waited maybe an hour, or not even, before they called us. Marie had to wait outside, but I was allowed to stay. They put a lead coat on me to protect me from the x-rays. Abdoulaye was strapped onto a moving bed. I had told him that this was only a picture of the inside of his head, and it wouldn't hurt. He was still a little apprehensive. Then the bed started moving slowly, step by step, with a picture taken all around each time. The doctor(?) asked me some questions about myself, but I wanted to know whether they had seen anything on their monitors. He said, he wasn't a specialist, but he hadn't seen anything anormal. Then they told us, we had to come back on Monday for the results. Great! Still not over! We also have to go to a "health center" to have Abdoulaye's bandages changed. And we have to go to two places with Hama as well.

We left and made it back home just in time for our telephone appointment with our French friends in Paris. We all sat down around the speaker phone, and the kids enjoyed immensely talking to Pascale and Corinne. We all did. Especially Sekouba still talked about it hours later.

Fridge Story Continued

The break was short, because we had to go to the fridge guy again - the fourth time this week. Marie and Sekouba came along. I drove all the way there, only to find out (again) that the guy was neither there, nor was the fridge plugged in - or rather, they had a power outage (again). So we drove back, making another appointment for tomorrow.

On the way back we stopped at a carpenter's shop - a Christian guy who was taught by missionaries. FINALLY a decent, honest, quality carpenter! He will make us the two bunkbed for our kids. And if he's good, he'll do much more than that. You need to know that you always have to have your furniture custom-made in Mali. And since the civil war in Ivory Coast, the wood prices have gone up drasticly. All wood is imported from there.

Back home, I had a few minutes before the literacy class started. I taught my three students for an hour, enjoying it, and by then, it was time to get ready for movie night.

Now, I'm gonna grab a bite to eat, and then I'm gonna lie down. They'll have to do without me tonight.

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Thursday, May 25, 2006

Running To The Emergency Room

What a day! I've finally had the experience of a Malian hospital - though only the emergency room, thank God. I'm glad Abdoulaye didn't have to stay there.

If you want to know what happened, I wrote the story to be sent to everyone, so it's in the NEWS section, right here.

Right now, Abdoulaye is sleeping in my former prayer room, just opposite my room, snoring slightly.

Wednesday

It rained hard the night from Tue to Wed - so hard that I saved the kids and had them sleep inside the house for the first time. Normally they sleep on the veranda (with a roof), where it's much cooler than inside the house. But since the rain was accompanied by wind. they weren't save anywhere.

Due to the rains, we also had few kids show up to our weekly program on Wednesday, but still, we had a good number of new kids. We did our last session of the 13 weeks on the BLOOD OF JESUS, and it went well. Next week, 9 kids of the Bamako Christian school are coming to do the program for our kids. That's gonna be interesting! Especially as they speak neither French nor Bambara!

White Missionary Friends

After hitting rock bottom on Monday, I called a white missionary friend here in Bamako. Wed night, I finally had a chance to go see her, as well as another friend who lives in another part of Mali. I was able to share my heart, and received wise counsel, and they also prayed with me. I stayed for dinner, before I finally went home.

I was very blessed by that time of having someone to talk to, someone who understands exactly. Today (Thu) I already saw some fruit from that time. Thank you, Jesus!

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Tuesday, May 23, 2006

Hama's First Visit To A Rehabilitation Center

We were finally able to find the rehabilitation center someone told me about a few weeks ago. It's an NGO that helps blind and handicapped kids, and they have a center not too far from us.

I took Hama and his Dad with me, just to find out whether they can help us and/or if we need to go to their main center. We found it, and found the lady in charge. It's very small, and few people are there. I asked a few questions, trying to get some information from her. she said they can help Hama walk. He and his parents have to come twice a week, to watch the exercises they do and be able ro reproduce them. The lady showed us today with Hama what exercises they do. When she started working on his bad leg, he started crying real bad, because it hurt so much. She just kept going, then working on his arm. Hama looked at me with tears in his eyes - it nearly broke my heart to see him suffer so much. I hope he won't think I'm just watching instead of helping and saving him. When she was done, Hama fell into my arms, holding tight onto me. When the lady stretched out her arm so say good-bye, Hama jerked away in fear.

It's not gonna be easy to do this, but it has to be done. The lady said his Mom has to come also, so we have an appointment on Thursday, when they will get started. We'll also have to go to the main center once so Hama can be examined by a doctor. Hopefully we can do both on Thursday.

Never-Ending Fridge Story

It's now been a month when I bought a fridge. To this day I do not actually HAVE a fridge, nor my money. Yesterday Emma's friend Jean who's been helping me with this exploded. Today he was still angry with me. We went there yesterday, and today again. None of the fridges they've offered us so far have worked. I'm deeply regretting this whole thing, and don't want to ever see a fridge again really....

Our Kids

Yesterday Sekouba hit Abdoulaye again - we really need to do inner healing sessions with all kids. This week we don't have school, because Marie has to work and Paul has his final exams. We did work a little yesterday and today though, to keep them busy and to help Fousseni catch up.

Just now there was another conflict - this time between Sekouba and Seybou, who was very angry. He says that Sekouba has taken something from him, while Sekouba says somebody else gave that to him. We couldn't resolve the issue. Sekouba started crying, and Seybou ran away angry.

I fear for my kids. The last few days haven't been going very well, and I'm reaching a point of exhaustion that's scary. I feel like crying at every little thing that's going wrong. And I fear for my people. It's as if everything's falling apart, or rather every person....

I've seriously considered taking a week-long break, using my free flight... But I probably won't. Where would I go?

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Saturday, May 20, 2006

Prayer Meeting On Our Property

Tonight we met earlier to all drive over to our property to pray. We've only once been there, with a government official who showed it to us. Tonight, I took more team members with me who hadn't been there before. Only Simeon came the second time.

We took dates with us to hand out, to befriend our neighbors. We got there, and everyone was excited to finally see our Promised Land. We walked along the borders of the property, talking to our neighbors, and giving them the dates. They were all very welcoming and friendly. When we had walked along half the borders, I looked to the sky and saw the rainbow. It was stunning! God was reminding us of His promises. Wow! A neighbor took this picture of our team with the rainbow in the background - can you see it?

When we had gone full circle, we went to the middle of the property to pray. We started walking in a circle and praying. While we did, the kids came running to watch us. After some time praying, we sang a few Bambara songs, which the kids enjoyed. More and more came, and it was time to grasp the opportunity. I started singing some of the songs with actions we always do with our kids. You should have seen those kids, how much fun they had! There were about 40 of them. When we stopped, I had all these faces of women and kids looking at me. So I gave them a short speech that Jesus loves them and died for them, and that we love them and will be there for them. After that Seybou handed out more dates to those who hadn't had any before.

We left, our hearts full of joy. I wished we could already minister to all these kids and neighbors, and maybe we'll do stuff from time to time until we move. When we left, all the kids surrounded us, saying good-bye, and "see you tomorrow" :-)

Child #3 - Fousseni

Tonight I had the interview with our third child who wants to stay, and in fact already stayed last night. Here's his story:

Born in Ivory Coast, Fousseni's parents are from Burkina Faso, and that's where he spent the first few years of his life. Until his Mom died, and his Dad was up to too much opposition from the family, so that he decided to move to Bamako with his 8 kids. He never remarried. In Bamako, Fousseni (who was one of the younger ones) stayed with his Dad for a year until his Dad decided Fousseni needed to do something. So he sent him to a Quranic school, to a marabout. However, Fousseni still spent the nights at his Dad's house. After his first year there, his father runs out of money and has to take him out of the school. Instead, Fousseni becomes an apprentice with a carpenter - a work he loves, and a profession he still wants to learn. However, his boss beats him regularly, and his Dad would beat him more because he wouldn't believe Fousseni. In fact, his Dad had been beating him since he can remember. After one year with the carpenter, Fousseni leaves and starts pretending going there every morning. However, his father finds out and punishes him by not giving him any more food. That's when Fousseni - now 14 - runs away from home. He spends one year on the streets, in one of the worst parts of town, before he hears about our Easter Party with food, clothes and gifts and comes. He's been coming faithfully since. God put him on my heart, so that I was worrying for days when he didn't show up once. Now he's part of the family.

Fousseni is very happy to stay, and I think Abdoulaye has found a friend. Since Fousseni has never been to school, it's gonna be a challenge to teach him, with the others being so much further along. Imagine, he's never written or read ever...

But I love that young man, who now also needs to find a sponsor. We need to buy him some clothes. When the French ladies were here, Corinne gave him some clothes, but he entrusted them to a friend to keep them, who then took off with them.

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Friday, May 19, 2006

Regular Life

Time for school in the morning. Marie's 3-month trip hasn't started yet, so she was able to help with teaching the kids. We had music again; they're both learning to play the piano. Thankfully we now have one. In the afternoon they were both practicing a bit (Abdoulaye in the picture), though they were both lacking some discipline.

Like every Friday (and Tuesday) we had literacy class. We now have 3 students who can all read by now, but who struggle still a lot with writing. It's rewarding to see the fruit of your work. We always have lots of fun together.

Child Sponsorships

Now both our kids have sponsors. Praise God! Now that they are taking care of, we can think of taking in number 3. Fousseni has been on my heart for 3 weeks, and I'm looking forward to taking him in.

In fact, tonight was movie night, and he showed up. He fell asleep during the movie. At the end, I put up my third mattress and told him to just sleep here tonight. Tomorrow we're gonna do the interview with him, to find out his story and consider his case.

It's the little things that give me satisfaction these days - my kids, my students, their joys and victories. It's for them I'm here.

Tonight, I called Abdoulaye and Sekouba and announced to them that they have sponsors now. They both nearly summersaulted!! They were so happy! I told them they can write their sponsors and draw pictures for them, and that I'd give them a picture of their respective one.

Emma and Paul with me in the back,
Sekouba and Abdoulaye in the front.

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Wednesday, May 17, 2006

We Saw The Promised Land!

Finally! After over four months of trying, they finally showed us our property-to-be. We met with the guy, who's drawn the maps, where all the elders of Yirimadio sit all day. We waited 45 min before he showed up. Then we followed him to the village chief, who gave his consent to him showing us the land. So we followed him, out of the village center, to the foot of the hill where our property lies. I was excited! It's like a new little village is being built there, with most houses under construction. And right there, our property lies, surrounded by little houses; even on our own property there are houses that will need to be torn down. Some of the houses in the background on the picture are on our property and will have to be torn down.

Of course, a white person visiting was quite a sensation in this remote part of town. In fact, the neighbors on one side of our property don't live in Bamako any more, because our property is on the border. All the kids came running - our new neighbors!!! I'm looking forward to getting to know them and love them.

We walked along the (invisible) borders of or property. On Saturday, we will have our prayer meeting there.

What are the next steps?

On the goverment level, we need to wait a little longer for the approval of the maps. Once that's through, we will receive the property. Our regular gifts (sigh) for the officals make sure it's gonna work out. Then, they have to move the people on our property. After that, the guy from today needs to redo the property limits, and we can build a wall along the limits to clearly mark it. After that, we'll be able to start the construction process.

Our timetable is for the construction to begin in October. Hopefully it will work out.

Emma Is Leaving Us - Temporarily

But the discouragement has also been great these past few weeks. Tonight Emma told me that he's "taking a break" from us, retreating, so that he can sort his life out. I'm not gonna say any more, only that that's a big blow to me/us. And I have to be careful not to blame myself for everything going on...

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Wednesday, May 17, 2006

Weekly Children's Program

Today we had fewer kids than usual, but thankfully we now have a couple of regulars, who are candidates to stay with us. But we don't even have sponsorships for the first two kids yet!!!

We've been doing a series on the blood of Jesus, and today I explained the Last Supper, which we then took. Two of the new kids first gave their lives to the Lord. It was a precious moment.

Abdoulaye

Yesterday we had a serious conversation with Abdoulaye, that went very well. He wants to stay and said he won't leave again. I asked him, how many days on the property his punishment should be. He said, 5 or 10 days. I told him, he'd stay until I'd tell him he could go outside. He accepted that, and it's been okay with him since.

Sekouba's First Icecream

In the afternoon I had an appointment with the president of the Malian association of churches. We've applied to become a part, and he wanted two more papers and answers. I gave him the papers, and brought him up to date with all that has happened at CAM. I also asked him a few questions on legal issues, which helped somewhat. Sekouba had put on his best clothes, and the president talked to him also, asking him a few questions. We had crossed town - a long trip - yet only stayed 20 minutes, before doing the long trip home. We were gone for 2 hours all in all.

On the way home, we stopped at a gas station downtown to put air into the one tire that loses it constantly. Unfortunately only few gas stations have air, and that one didn't. But, it's the only gas station that has an icecream machine, and I wanted to buy one for Sekouba. So we did. He was happy! I hadn't realized he had never had an icecream before! He loved it.

Unexpected Family Night

I was just gonna go into the prayer room to pray, when Paul showed up. We all sat down for a few minutes, and somehow, we ended up going inside to watch a video from my adolescence. The video of my ballroom dancing career! Of course, they all thought it was hilarious to see me waltz and dance rock'n'roll. Twice, the electricity was cut off, and both times we went outside where it was cooler. During those two breaks I told them about my astronomy career and explained to them what they were seeing in the sky. They enjoyed that. Marie was interpreting for me, while Sekouba and Abdoulaye were fascinated.

After the dancing video, we also watched my water baptism video, and then it was really time to quit. I hadn't been aware how late it already was.

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Monday, May 15, 2006

School Again

After we talked to the kids seriously last week, whether they wanted to study or not, we were after all able to start school again today. Thanks to Marie who's waiting for her boss to tell her when to leave. While she's here, she can take Paul's place. Paul has two more weeks of school before he's free to help me.

So we started at 9 o'clock. Sekouba was all up beat, while Abdoulaye was downcast. And it stayed that way. Abdoulaye had a pretty bad attitude all morning. And though we corrected him several times, he didn't change it. Rather tiring when your students are like that.

Abdoulaye Returns To The Street

In the afternoon, Jean came by, and together with Sekouba we went to town to pick up my deskchair. On the way back, just after the bus station, where all the street kids are, Sekouba suddenly saw Abdoulaye on the street. Now, when he moved in, we laid down the rules clearly, and one was, don't ever go back where you came from. You don't belong there any more. I was shocked to see him. We made him get back into the car and drove home. I asked him what he was doing there. He gave me different lies as an answer - "pick one". I told him that that was a serious transgression, and he's free to leave. Take your clothes and get out. Every day, Abdoulaye is willfully breaking the rules, disobeying. What to do?

I told him we'd talk seriously that night, when Paul would be here. And if he wanted to stay, he could show some goodwill by respecting his punishment of not leaving the property the rest of the day, and he wasn't allowed to attend the party either. After the conversation we'd decided whether he'd have to leave.

Conveniently, he fell asleep during the party, and we couldn't talk to him any more. We're gonna talk tomorrow.

In any case, Abdoulaye has an uncle in Bamako who has treated him well. He could easily return to his family.

Birthday Party

To the right you see the 4 "birthday kids" we celebrated tonight: Sarata (1), Sekouba (15), Paul (18) and myself (33). On the picture, we're blowing out the candles on our little cake. We were 17 people, so that everybody just had a little bite (I got the cake yesterday). Sekouba had invited his friends to his party (without asking me), so in the end we allowed them in anyway.

On the little table in the middle we had lots of gifts - I was surprised at how many there were! We each opened one gift at a time. Sarata alone had 6 gifts, and she loved each one (except the little white doll that she was afraid of). Paul, when he opened one gift which was a cellphone, he twirled around because he was so happy! Praise God! He sure is like a little kid! Sekouba was also happy about all the clothes he got - he sure needs them! Paul also received clothes which he needs desperately. I myself got two letters, a picture Sekouba drew, clothes from Simeon, and Paul cooked my favorite dish for me. Paul also gave his best shirt to Sekouba - that surely is sacrifical giving!!!

Property

It's been pretty quiet when it comes to our property in Yirimadio. Nothing has been happening or moving forward. But now we finally have an appointment Thursday morning to be shown our property!!! Praise God! I hope it's gonna work out this time. We had no choice but to give money gifts to different people today, so they'd finally do something.

And on Wednesday I have an important meeting with the leader of the Malian association of churches. They want me to answer a theological concern, give them a copy of our state recognition, and I'll have the chance to ask a few questions and get hopefully helpful advice on legal issues so we can advance.

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Sunday, May 14, 2006

Not So Good Weekend

What a weird weekend! Saturday was a strange day, though I was by myself most of the time until the prayer meeting arrived. The prayer meeting started at 6 pm, and only Simeon, Paul and Sekouba were there. Seybou came 20 min late, Emma never showed up, Marie was at a wedding, and Fanta simply chose not to come. We started with a Bambara worship song, and neither Sekouba nor Abdoulaye sang. I told them to bring a sacrifice of praise, that we're to praise whether we feel like it or not. Abdoulaye just wore a constant frown and refused to sing. I told him to keep standing so he wouldn't fall asleep again.

We worshipped in French for some time. Already I felt troubled. I put my guitar down, and just prayed for a few minutes, telling them all to pray in tongues, that we needed to do warfare in the Spirit. I knelt on the floor, as grief swept over me. Grief that we (corporately) weren't listening to the Lord's warning, but continuing in our ways. John 15 came to my mind. I looked it up and read some verses. When we obey, we remain in His love; when we disobey, we're no longer in His love, and therefore separated from Him. A branch separated from the vine cannot survive, but will be burned because useless. And we cannot ask stuff from Him if we don't obey Him. Therefore, there was no point in bringing our requests to God at that moment. Instead, I encouraged everyone to search their hearts and respond to God.

While doing so, I saw a clock, and the time moved from 5 to 12 to 4 to 12. Scary. Paul saw a continuation of the picture from 2 weeks ago; we were still surrounded by enemies, but only a few had taken up arms to fight.

My Birthday

The fear of the Lord had come afresh on me, and all day Sunday I was torn, scared for our church, that people don't have ears to listen and will continue in their ways. Are we gonna make it? I'm truly not sure.

Paul was supposed to preach, but I told him Saturday after the prayer meeting, that there was a possibility I would preach after all, since one passage had been burning in me all week.

On Sunday, I allowed the enemy to bring discouragement to me, and I thought, good thing Paul is preaching. An hour before the start of the service I realized that Emma had left town suddenly and unexpectedly, so we didn't have an interpreter for Paul. I also realized that I would be the one preaching after all. In any case, the message was all in my head. A prophet's message, not a pastor's.

After the time of worship by singing, we prayed for each birthday kid. Paul intervened when I didn't mention myself and prayed for me.

Then I preached on Ananias & Sapphira, John 15 from the night before, and the passage that had been on my mind all week, Luke 13. The owner of the fig tree is ready to cut it down, but allows the gardener to give it one more try, dig around it, put manure on the ground, and give it one more year to bring fruit. We're that tree, and the Lord gives it one more try, to see if we bring good fruit; if we take the right road ahead of us.

In the end, I called the church to a week of prayer and fasting, to repentance, humbling ourselves before the Lord, and ridding our hearts and lives of any and all sin. Many came forward at the call, to repent before the Lord, and I can only hope they meant it.

Birthday Meal

Here I had just proclaimed a corporate fast, and now we were heading towards a restaurant. I grabbed four of my kids and we went. It was my birthday, and I fancied some nice food with my family. I knew if I took Sekouba, I also had to take Abdoulaye. And if I took Paul, I also had to take Simeon, so the five of us went. The restaurant is on the other side of the bus station, and I was amazed at how many street kids there knew me. Constantly kids were walking by, calling my name. It was both surprising and touching. I wished I could have bought them all a meal! And I wished I could have taken them all with me!

The five of us had much fun, in any case. We enjoyed the meal and the fellowship. Back home, Marie, Sekouba, Abdoulaye and I still played a few board games, but Abdoulaye lost interest when he was losing. The rest of us had fun anyway.

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Friday, May 12, 2006

Never-Ending Fridge Story

For over 3 weeks now this fridge story has been going on, and no end is in sight. I've had 3 different fridges in my kitchen, and none of them worked. I got number 3 again, because they said they'd repaired it, and it still doesn't work. Jean, who got it for me, is frustrated and fed up, I am, and everybody else as well. Now they're gonna come again tomorrow, to repair it a 4th time. I don't believe any more it's gonna work out. And they're not gonna give the money back either.

Abdoulaye Delivered

This afternoon I sat down with Paul to help Abdoulaye, to have another healing/deliverance session. Yesterday we just made sure he understood salvation and became a child of God. The opposition of the spirits was obvious, as he had a hard time staying attentive and grasping what I was saying. But he understood and prayed to become a child of God.

Today, I wanted to find out more about all the demonic activity in his family - the sorcery, the rituals, everything his parents had done and he himself had done. I explained to him that he needed to renounce those things and turn from them. He understood. So I led him in renouncement declarations of the things his parents and he himself had done, according to what he had shared, and what was implied. He asked forgiveness from the Lord, and was forgiven. Then I prayed over him, cutting him off from all these things, and commanding the spirits to leave. He sat calmly on his chair.

Then, it must have been the Lord's inspiration, I decided we need to soak him in prayer for a while. I told Abdoulaye to close his eyes and think of Jesus, and that we'd pray for him in tongues. Paul and I, we both started praying in tongues for Abdoulaye, when things started happening. Both his hands and arms starting tensing, squeezing our hands (we each held one hand), with amazing force. Then he'd cough and relax. I don't know how often this was repeated, but it was quite a few times, more than 10. It was as if each time a spirit had come up and then left. Finally we wanted to bring it to a close. I prayed a prayer to seal what God had done, for him to be filled with the Spirit, and for the spirits to leave and never return. As I prayed this prayer, he suddenly contorted hard, his whole face, and he was nearly crying. We asked what was happening, and he said that the spirits were trying to get back in. But they couldn't. Praise God!

I held him some more time, before we needed to quit, because other people were waiting for me. Some time later, I noticed how free and joyful he seemed. We still have to sit down at least one more time to deal with his broken heart, so he'll be healed from childhood traumas.

Other Stuff

There are a lot of demands on me these days, but I also love it. During movie night, I sat next to Abdoulaye for some time, his head on my shoulder, and Hama on my lap, who fell asleep there like every week. I love my kids, and I love Sekouba, who though only 2 years older than Abdoulaye, is so much more adult. After the movie tonight, he came to me because his big toe was hurting bad. He'd injured it while playing soccer. So I sat down and prayed for it.

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Thursday, May 11, 2006

School Suspended

Before ever starting the third day of school, we suspended it. It was ridiculous, really. It was 9 am, time to start, when I went outside to greet Paul and the kids. Abdoulaye was asleep on the ground, and Sekouba neither looked at me nor responded to me. I tried several times, yet he ignored me and kept starting to the ground. Finally, we decided to not have school, but to give them a day to think about whether they want to learn anything or not. They would have to stay on the property all day.

And they did; except that Abdoulaye left the property in the evening - so he has to stay another day on the property. In the evening, I also wanted to talk to both of them to find out what conclusion they had come to. Unfortunately, Abdoulaye was already asleep. Sekouba said, that he wanted to learn, to study.

Now, I cannot do this all alone - already because of my insufficient Bambara. And Paul has two more weeks at school, the next two weeks. So, after that we're gonna start seriously. In the meantime, I'm just gonna teach them a little, where I don't need to explain anything complicated in Bambara.

I'm praying that God would send us a Malian teacher who could start teaching them in fall. It doesn't look like he'll come from our own ranks.

Please pray also for sponsors for my two kids - and a few more would like to be taken in.

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Wednesday, May 10, 2006

Rushing To The Hospital

We had our weekly kids' program, which went well. After the program, we were putting stuff away, the kids had left, when we realized there was a conflict between Abdoulaye Sekouba. I let Marie handle it, who said it was Sekouba's fault. I then realized it was not all his fault, but both their fault. Sekouba had done something jokingly, but Abdoulaye didn't take it as a joke and insulted him. I said a few closing words and left them.

A few moments later I heard a lout cry - Abdoulaye. Sekouba hit him with all his force on the side of his knee. Abdoulay was lying on the floor in pain, crying, as if he had left this world for another. I talked to Sekouba, as well as Abdoulaye, talking about repentance and forgiveness and had Sekouba ask forgiveness of Abdoulay - he did. And Abdoulaye said, I forgive you. Then I had Sekouba lay his hand on Abdoulaye's knee and pray; so did I. After that, Abdoulaye was still sitting on the floor, sobbing, his leg slightly turned. Some said that the joint was out of place, but I didn't think so. Since they insisted, I thought it wiser to go to the hospital with him. But what concerned me much more was the emotional/spiritual state Abdoulaye was in. He seemed catatonic, his eyes gazed ahead as if he wasn't there. I tried talking to him, tried telling him Jesus was with him, and to hold on to him.

I drove with Abdoulaye, Sekouba, and Marie to a nearby hospital. Sekouba carried Abdoulaye. We finally found the right little room and a doctor came. I held Abdoulaye's hand, while the doctor padded and moved his knee, which hurt Abdoulaye so bad he was crying again. And he was still in that state, like a shock. The doctor gave me a prescription for 3 things and recommended we'd go to another hospital where they can do an x-ray.

We left, stopped at the pharmacy, and went home. By then, Abdoulaye got out of the vehicle and walked inside. We put the stuff on his knee and gave him a tablet. Sekouba seemed pretty shaken.

Well, four hours later, I just played badminton with Abdoulaye, and he jumed and twirled, and even sat on his knee!!! I wonder how bad it really was.

In any case, he needs deliverance big time. Yesterday, he was talking loudly in his "sleep" again, because the spirits told him to share everything he had learned that day. Later, he awoke and Marie offered him some food she had made for herself and her fiancé. He said he'd go eat it together with the spirits. She said, "If you give it to the spirits, I won't give it to you." Obviously, we need to talk again, and have a deliverance session.

It's not yet 7 pm, but I'm exhausted. Please pray for strength. I'm considering forcing myself to go to bed earlier today.

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Monday, May 8, 2006

Our School Starts

Our school has started! Paul came to help me, and we started at 9 am with a short Bible exhortation, two songs, and prayer. The first class was Reading Bambara, then we had Writing Bambara, then French und lastly Maths. It went pretty well. Paul translated where necessary, and they were both eager to learn. At times Abdoulaye more than Sekouba, because Sekouba is easily discouraged.

In the end, I was pretty tired, more than the kids. Paul went home to eat, the kids outside to eat, and I made myself something. In the afternoon Paul is coming back to help the kids with their homework.

Abdoulaye is very sensitive, and is craving love. Last night, after our service, I needed to leave quickly to go to town, to meet up with the missionaries after their service, to have fellowship and go out to eat with them. Sekouba just hopped in the car, and I had to explain to him that he couldn't come along this time. In the meantime Abdoulaye stood outside and started to cry - he thought I'd take Sekouba but not him. I finally made myself clear, and left.

We actually need to sit down with Abdoulaye some time to minister to him. When we start praying, he "falls asleep", and starts talking. Today we asked him what had happened those two occasions. He said, an angel had come to him and told him to count to a hundred. So he started talking, but he couldn't do it. Then Jesus came and chased the spirit away. The following day it happened again, but I don't know whether Jesus came to help him again. I told him not to listen to that spirit, but to call on the name of Jesus, and that we're gonna sit down to pray for him some time, so that no spirits would bother him anymore.

Tonight it rained again - for the first time since Corinne & Pascale left exactly a week ago. I had the kids come in, and together we reorganized some book shelves. We had a fun time. Then I gave them each a tooth brush and tooth paste (see picture), and showed them how to use it. Soon, Abdoulaye was lying on the floor, sleeping again. It also seems that he's sick. He might have malaria. I've gotta treat him tomorrow. In any case, today I started giving them vitamins and medication that keeps them from getting malaria.

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Saturday, May 6, 2006

Fun-Time With Kids & Prayer Meeting

This morning both kids were excited to go to town with me. The three of us got into the car, and off we went, to the big supermarket to buy some groceries. Abdoulaye had never seen a store like that before, and was wide-eyed. He rode an elevator for the first time (it was Sekouba's second time), and wasn't quite sure what was happening. It was quite funny. We wandered around, and as it is when you go shopping with your kids, you buy them stuff you wouldn't have bought otherwise. So they both got a ruler and a chocolate egg with a little toy inside. They were happy, and I enjoyed seeing Sekouba laughing again and playing around.

Then we went on to the appointment I had with a leaving missionary, to look at some stuff he's selling that might be useful to us. I had been interested in his TV (a big TV for our kids, for the Christian movies), but $600 is simply too much. So I just got a ladder, two lamps and two little bookcases. Then we went back home.

In the evening, we had our prayer meeting. Most everyone was there. I asked what aspect of God had been the most meaningful to them this week, and to my surprise, no one referred to last Sun and Mon when God spoke to us very seriously and clearly. I told them, for me it was the fear of God, and that I also fear that we don't have ears to listen. The Lord is digging around this tree one more time to see whether it produces fruit.

We had a good time of worship and prayer. I enjoy seeing Sekouba grow; he came forward to pray for one of the topics. Praise God! Abdoulaye still needs to learn, and he fell asleep, right on his feet! :-)

We also ministered to Emma, who has been under attack severely this week, healthwise. I'll find out tomorrow how he's doing.

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Friday, May 5, 2006

Sekouba etc.

Marie was around today, which made me very grateful. I asked her to take my place with the kids for some time, which enabled me to get some things done. I put a table outside, so that the kids could work there in peace.

I'm glad Sekouba has his joy back; I like him a lot more like that.

At 5 pm we had the first worship team practice ever. They're a great team - Paul (leader), Marie and Sekouba. Abdoulaye was there too, and Hama. Hama cannot sit still, when worship music is going. So he danced, holding onto my hands.

Tonight was movie night. We showed THE HIDING PLACE. I sat next to Sekouba, telling him in Bambara what was happening, with Hama on my lap who eventually fell asleep.

Sekouba did this drawing today; God's house with different inhabitants. And every inhabitant has a heart of a different color.

Things with Simeon are not going so well. Please pray for him.

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Thursday, May 4, 2006

Tired

Once more it's 1:30 in the morning, and I'm still working. My schedule has changed, having 2 kids around the clock. I need to find a decent rhythme, and help. With the kids around, I'm not getting anything done. So the only time I can sit down at my desk and work "in peace" is at night. But it means I have a hard time getting up and I'm tired during the day.

Sekouba (15) & Abdoulaye (13)

Sekouba still hasn't smiled, since Pascale and Corinne left three days ago. He doesn't respond to questions, doesn't want to do anything. I miss his laughter and playing around.

Abdoulaye visibly enjoys being here, and is starting to flourish. He is also eager to study; as of his eagerness to know Jesus, it's not that clear yet.

Today I made a schedule for our school. We're starting on Monday, five days a week, from 9 to 1 pm, with Reading, Writing, Maths, French, Music and half an hour Bible & Prayer every day. I'm gonna be the one teaching it for now. Paul's school year is soon done, and then he'll help me full-time. I can't wait for that day!

I've also talked to Sekouba alone, and to both kids, trying to find out what's going on, why they avoided each other, whether Sekouba is jealous. Sekouba doesn't talk right now, so I don't know.

Both kids now need a sponsor. If you're interested in sponsoring either Sekouba or Abdoulaye, please contact me.

Bible School 3rd Trimester

Tonight we started the third trimester of our video Bible School. Both Simeon and Paul didn't have sufficient grades at the end of the 2nd trimester, but where close enough to get a second chance and redo parts of the trimester. Paul passed, but Simeon didn't. Simeon received a second chance, but failed again. That means he now has to wait until next time we do the 2nd trimester, because he needs to do it again before continuing on to the 3rd.

Obviously, Simeon wasn't happy about this. He's feeling bad enough already. I then even had quite a strong dream about him, after not having been able to sleep and having prayed myself to sleep.

He needs your prayers. All my team members received prophetic words when the French ladies were here, and his was about all his foundations being shaken, and everything being destroyed, so the Lord could build in his life.

The Fear Of The Lord

The fear of the Lord keeps being on me (and that's a good thing), ever since Sunday and then Monday. It's now been 3 days, and I'm somewhat concerned whether any and how many had ears to listen. I believe with all my heart it's true that we're on the edge, at the point of turning or no return. May His fear be on us all, as well as His mercy!

Money Matters

It's a constant up and down, but right now it's a serious down - no money for the May rent and other expenses, though thankfully I can make more debts at my bank. When my French friends prophesied over me 10 days ago, they spoke about provision, and the oil and flour never running out, I should just make the last loaf of bread.....

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Tuesday, May 2, 2006

Busy, Busy Day

My life will never be the same again. And I'm praying, neither the life of any of my team members. If not, it'd be very serious.

At first, I had planned on spending the whole day with the Lord. Of course, the literacy class starts at 4 pm. Then I had an appointment at 3 pm, then I had to go to town with Emma, then Marie was home and the kids around...

Sigh. But I got to spend some quality time with HIM before all that - I was so glad! The fear of the Lord was still all over me, as I prayed, read the Word, and sought His guidance and wisdom.

Then I helped Marie with something, helped our kids with school work, teaching them, and then Emma already showed up. Emma, Sekouba, and I then went to town - drove to town with our vehicle :-) A ministry in the US sent us Bambara tracts in Jan 2005 - they just arrived, after 16 months. Then we bought fabric for Sekouba, to have new clothes made. Before leaving I had a look at what he's got - it's not much, and all those clothes are old and full of holes. Now we got him really nice fabric, and we'll have a nice Malian boubou made out of it. People won't recognize Sekouba!!! Wait till you see the picture.

I also bought school books for Sekouba and Abdoulaye (see picture), because it's time to start with school now. I got two math books (first 2 years) and a book to learn French - one for each kid. Abdoulay has already done 4 years at school (he's 13), and Sekouba 3 years. But Abdoulaye was beaten severely by his teacher, which is also the reason why he left school. I could tell today that he knows very little.

Sekouba was very quiet all day today. Unfortunately he never tells you why his joy is gone. I wonder whether it's because of Pascale & Corinne who left last night. In any case, Hama was asking for them today, and was crying because they weren't here.

I got back home, and Jean was already waiting. Jean has been running around because of our new fridge this past week. If I told you the whole story, you wouldn't believe it. In any case, after the third fridge and several repairs, and a week of daily trying to solve this, the fridge is still not working. Maybe this is not the right time for a big fridge. Tomorrow they're picking it up again, and it's a miracle I'll have the money back (hopefully). Since I'm out of money, the fridge money will allow me to pay the rent for May.

So, it was nearly 3 when Jean left, and I had five minutes before my appointment with Myclair. And I hadn't even eaten yet, and I'd be teaching from 4 till 9 pm. Myclair didn't show up, which allowed me to get ready for the 4 pm class while helping the kids at the same time.

And all classes took place today. The literacy class, and then the two English classes, for beginners and for advanced students. Simeon was watching his 5 Bible School sessions, because he needs to redo a part and pass the exam to be able to do the 3rd trimester. Tomorrow he will take the exam. I don't have much hope that he will pass.

Paul and Marie were there for the first class, and Hassan 1 and Hassan 2 for the second class. We had much fun together, all the while I was hungry, tired, and thinking of the tons of work that were waiting for me.

After English class, at 9:30 pm, I had another important conversation. Emma came back to help with it, and we sat down with Seybou and Fanta. We had to talk clearly about how much money it will really cost to feed Sekouba and Abdoulaye. We were able to determine the amount (which was less than said earlier), and everyone was happy.

Then I still had to bring up the topic of hygiene. I told them, they need to change Hama's clothes when he urinates on himself, and they need to wash him at night and put fresh clothes on him in the morning. While the French ladies were here, they once had him sleep and spend the day in the same clothes that were stinking from his urine. I also told them to show their kids how to brush their teeth. I brought tooth brushes and kids' paste with me for them. I mentioned a few other things, concerning the way to treat their kids, and then Seybou thanked me. I was very glad they received what I had to say.

And I'm very proud of Emma. I don't know whether my own eyes have changed, or he has, but I see more maturity, I see him for the pastor he is, and I long for him to be 100% with us - for his sake and for ours. There's so much he could do, he could help with. We need him, and would be able to go further with him. He himself has dreams and ideas and things he'd like to do, but can only do if with us all the way.

Please pray for him, for courage and resolve, to talk to his parents soon and take that important and very necessary step of doing God's will instead of his parents'.

Jean and Emma left, I had more stuff to take care of with some people, until I was finally able to sit down at my desk and eat my lunch (at 11 pm), while starting to prepare for the kids' program tomorrow. Having done that, I started writing this report - it's 2 am, but this needs to be written for eternity.

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Monday, May 1, 2006

Last French Class & Abdoulaye

Photo: Pascale & Abdoulaye

Pascale & Corinne's last day in Bamako! Both their hearts were already heavy because of the impending departure. I missed Corinne's joy and vibrancy all day - instead she wore sunglasses to hide her tears.

We started the day with the fifth and last French class. Though it was a day off, few kids came - all the better, because it enabled us to actually accomplish something. Corinne did another children's songs with actions, which they liked - about soap to wash yourself, and Jesus who washes you. Then we played games again to revise vocabulary and grammar. Sekouba gets discouraged very quickly, and I had to exhort him, telling him that making mistakes was a necessity and part of the learning process. In the end, he finally participated again. We closed our class with another paper where they had to find the differences and then color it. Since we still had lots of food from the day before, I invited the kids to stay and eat. They all did, and ate plenty. While I was taking care of the kids, Corinne & Pascale took some time to pray. When the children had eaten and left, I decided this was a good time to sit down with Abdoulaye and do his interview, to find out more about his life. After all, he's slept here a couple of nights already and obviously wants to stay. So we sat down, and Paul translated for me to find out his story:

Abdoulaye was born in Welesebougou (Bougouni/Sikasso region in the south) in 1993. He lived with his parents and went to school for 4 years. During those 4 years, his Father divorced his Mother, and according to local customs, the children belong to the Father and have to be left with him when the wife is sent away. His Mom married again and moved to Gao - the city the furthest away possible (north-east, at the edge of the Sahara). At school, his teacher beat him severely, to the point of his physical state becoming critical, and he had to leave school. For two years he was at home with his Father and stepmother, not doing anything but help out - from age 10 to 12. During that time he decides to leave home and find his Mom and live with her. Again, those two cities are the farthest away possible within Mali. At the age of 12, he leaves, making his way to the capital Bamako, where he needs to take the bus to Gao. He has an uncle in Bamako who he is staying with, but that uncle doesn't want him to go to Gao. Though he treats him well and takes care of him, Abdoulaye doesn't receive everything he wants (his words). His goal is still to find his Mom, so he leaves his uncle's house with the intention of working and saving money for the bus ticket. That's how he ends up on the streets, at the bus station, and that's where he is invited to come to our Wednesday program. When he came to us a week ago (April 26), he stayed with us right away because of an injury he had on his leg that we treated. Abdoulaye still wants to go to Gao to find his Mom, but he also wants to stay with us. Pray for wisdom what to do - help him find his Mom, or let him stay a while and become strong, in the Lord and physically, before trying to find his Mom. He is 13 years old, but you'd think he's only 8. And today they told me that he eats A LOT, more than Sekouba.

The Afternoon

At the end of the interview we prayed, and in the meantime Pascale & Corinne were also ready to go have lunch at a restaurant, as planned. So we got in the car (no problems this time) and left. At the restaurant I found out I was invited because we were celebrating my birthday (two weeks early). Corinne was very quiet, because of having to leave and also more incidences with the way Hama is treated. I believe all our hearts have been broken quite a bit during this past two weeks because of that.

We still had a good time at the restaurant, talking. I've enjoyed getting to know them better - especially Pascale who I hardly knew before. They've become friends, and I'm gonna miss them. Thankfully, I get to pass at the church in Paris several times a year. Next time in July.

Back home the never-ending story with the fridge continued (see May 2 blog), and the kids were back to learn, to study, to write and read. Okay! I didn't know where the time went, because suddenly it was after 4 pm and time for Simeon's inner healing session. We had asked Paul to assist as well, to have a man amongst us. Well, two hours are not much, and they sure flew by. We hardly scratched the surface, and never got to really get into things. It was a conversation for most of the time - a fruitful conversation to see more of the roots, and to see his heart, and we were happy when he took the step to forgive everyone he hadn't forgiven. But by then the time was up. In any case, Pascale spoke very frankly with him, not keeping any truth from him. My prayer is that those words fell on good soil.

Severe And Final Warning From God

The time was up, and the time had come for the meeting Pascale had asked to be scheduled, with the whole team, before their departure. I just knew it had to do with what God did yesterday in the service, and that it was some serious stuff, and correction. I'm glad I recorded it. For me, life will never be the same. I've tasted the fear of the Lord - Sunday and even more so today - like I've never before, and anyone who can go on like before, must be totally deaf to the Spirit of God.

We sat in a circle, nobody knowing why they had asked for this meeting. Paul was interpreting, and I got my Bambara Bible to read the passages in Bambara. Already from the speech Pascale had given to Simeon privately, I was pretty sober. And I knew something was up. And my hopes were also up, that things would change. I turned on the recording, so we could all be reminded at a later date of what God was speaking today. I'm so glad I did.

Pascale read a few passages and started speaking general stuff about authority, spiritual authority, submission, obedience, etc. I have to say, they have really seen some ugly moments that would make me blush for them to happen in front of "outsiders", embarrassing moments, moments that made me cry inside and discourage me, moments like there have been too many these past two years, those incidents that steal your energy and joy and you don't know what else to do because they don't listen.

Pascale & Corinne have seen those things, and God has allowed them to see those things, so He could speak to us the truth, and actually TRUMPET it in our ears, if we can't hear any other way, and if they won't hear it from my lips.

Pascale started referring to some of those incidents, as she brought correction, expressing her shock at people's behavior, and their lack of humility and obedience. While she was talking, the Spirit of God was at work in me, and after some time, I couldn't help but had to prostrate myself on the floor, deeply convicted, the fear of the Lord sweeping over me like I've rarely felt in my life. I started sobbing and sobbing and did so the rest of the meeting while Pascale was speaking. I was the only one on the floor, and the only one sobbing (which was surprising to me, the way God hit me).

Pascale said many of the things again that the Lord had spoken yesterday, in the service (you have to read the April 30 blog if you haven't done so yet!!!), where I started to prophetically proclaim what God was saying. I was even shouting - something I've never done from the pulpit before. Pascale repeated those things, saying this was a final warning from God, since He has spoken for at least year to us about these things. And if any one person can't live with a woman pastor, she told them to leave. And if nothing was gonna change, this ministry, this church, would fall apart, would not last, and God would take me elsewhere to start over. What hit me the most was when she/He corrected our prayerlessness. We used to pray before the service, before the movie night, etc., but with people not showing up, those meetings also stopped. Oh my, did I repent!!! Honestly, I didn't think I could even lift a finger for the rest of the day, that's how heavy the fear of the Lord was on me!

But the meeting ended. Pascale had us all stand in a circle, hold hands, and pray. So I forced myself to a kneeling position and took Paul's as well as Fanta's hand. But still, I was pulled to the ground. They started saying thank you and good-bye, and I knew I just HAD to get up. I forced myself up, and gave them each the card I had made where everybody had signed, as well as a CD with all the pictures and all the sessions they had taught. Then some people wanted to say something to everybody. Seybou started, and I was surprised. Then Paul took the mic. And then Simeon. And Simeon asked forgiveness from everyone. Not the first time, but I want to believe with all my heart it was serious. Even Sekouba knelt down and asked Corinne & Pascale for forgiveness.

Emma

It was time to leave for the airport. I asked Emma to drive, and it turned out that God knew why he had to be the one accompanying us to the airport. We had a conversation in the car that I've had several times with him, but again, it coming from Pascale made a difference to him. He listened carefully, as God spoke very clearly to him again to make the decision to do HIS will and not his family's will. Emma became very quiet and pensive, as he analyzed the whole situation. He is a great analyzer. I believe this time he really understands that he HAS to make this step to get rid of the confusion, of being torn apart, and to enter into what God has for him, and into peace and fulfillment. Please pray for him.

Making Changes

The following morning, Tuesday, I IMMEDIATELY took action to respond to the word of the Lord. I wrote down a few things and gave the paper to each person. From now on, we'd pray again before meetings, and everyone was expected to be here. No more jealousy, no more backbiting, no more rebellion, no more fighting each other. It would not be tolerated any more. The worship team will have to meet once a week to practice and know IN ADVANCE what they will sing. And a few other things. The time of playing is over. Now we're in a war. Change is expected from everyone, no one could be like before any more.

May the Lord have mercy on us, and may none of the team members disregard the words of the Lord!

I got home from the airport, any my knees were still weak. I saw Sekouba and Abdoulaye, and so much love flowed from my heart to them. Sekouba was visible sad. I asked them to sit each next to me and put my arms around them. Then I prayed for them and told them I loved them.