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

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Friday, September 29, 2006

Abdiel's Life Story

Abdiel was born in the Segou region, in Misira, in 1995 - when he doesn't know, as most people in Mali. His father has three wives, and he is the third child. Though a Bambara, his father takes care of cattle and sheep. Abdiel is 7 years old when a marabout (Muslim teacher) from Bamako, a friend of the family, comes to visit and asks Abdiel's parents to give him their son. So Abdiel leaves with the marabout and moves to Bamako. In the beginning, he receives a lot of gifts, but soon the beatings start. In fact, Abdiel's back is covered in scars. After around 2 years Abdiel has had enough and leaves, starting his life on the streets. He first hangs out around the train station, then comes to our area, living at the bus station where the drug addicts and prostitutes are. One of the older boys takes him under his wings, and then brings him to our children's program. Against my habit, I take Abdiel in the very first day he comes, but he only spends 2 nights with us before he has to go to our doctor's hospital, where he stays 3 nights, to take care of all the sicknesses he brought with him.

Yirimadio

Before we left to go to our property for our weekly program, we rehearsed the sketch one more time. Then we prayed together, packed up, and wanted to leave. But several of the kids had seriously been acting up, until the last straw was reached. We ended up leaving without the kids, and we had the best program ever there. The kids there listened, and several wanted to start following Jesus.

In the evening, I had to seriously talk to our kids again. Sigh. I then prayed before blessing each kid, and I asked God to do His work, because we were at the end of ropes about what to do.

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Thursday, September 28, 2006

Pastor Enoch Receives His Bike

Today pastor Enoch came by and I gave him his bike. You should have seen his joy! He was speechless! Then he told me about all the people he can now go visit. Praise God! Thanks for making this possible!

He wants us to come to his village to show the Jesus movie before I leave for Austria, but I doubt that will be possible. He's eager to have us come and do ministry there.

Sekouba

Thank you for praying for him. Today he was back to normal, thank God! Maybe just teenage hormones.

Abdiel - A Challenge

Today we went to pick up Abdiel. The doctor gave me more medication for him, to take care of the worst sicknesses.

When Abdiel first got there, they thought he was mentally ill, but it seemed it was just his timidity. However, now that he is back home, he sure behaves weird. In any case, he has much to learn, since he's basically spent all his life on the street or with the Muslim teacher. Tonight, when it was time to wash yourself and get ready for bed, he only pretended to wash himself, because he didn't want to. In the end, Firmin had to take the soap and wash him, with Abdiel protesting. While we were praying, Abdiel started talking, and you do wonder sometimes the way he looks.

But we'll have to give him a few days' time. I just hope he starts to obey, because even the two days he was with us before going to the hospital, we had a hard time getting him to do something, but I blamed his sickness for that.

Medical Expenses

I had a few minutes to talk to our doctor tonight, when I picked up Abdiel. Firmin, Abdias, and Saloum also came with me, which was good, since Firmin was able to talk about his problem. In fact, Firmin will have to be operated. All his life he's had a hernia, which means that his intestines are spilling through an opening, causing pain. The operation will cost $200. Lord, send it!

Sekouba will have to have a gastrocopy done to determine exactly what's wrong in his stomach and deal with it effectively. Another expense.

Then the doctor said that they should really all be tested for HIV - a costly test. He's coming on Tue to take blood from everyone for that.

The injections for the most important things will also cost a fortune and should be done as soon as possible. It's over $60 per person - polio, tetanus, meningitis. In the future we should also do hepathitis and other stuff.

Possible Teacher

In any case, it was good to have a few minutes to talk to Alain, share some of the current situation. And it seems that he might know just the right teacher. A 50-year old man who took early retirement, and has taught 30 years of his life. Alain said he'd bring him along on Tue, if he has an interest. An older Christian man would surely be a good influence for our kids!

Well, once more I'm very tired, and I should go to bed as soon as possible. Blessings on you!

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Wednesday, September 27, 2006

The Search For A Teacher

Today another applicant for the position of teacher for our kids came by. It's too bad. The first one had all the qualifications, but something in my spirit said no. The one today I immediately liked (Sarata and Hama also immediately connected with her), but she doesn't have the qualifications, and even wants more money than the first. However, she can drive, use computers, is a nurse, and works in children's ministry in her church. What she COULD do is to drive the boys to kindergarten and back, and teach Hama and Sarata for 2 hours, doing computer office work for the other two hours.

But, it would mean I'd still be the teacher, and in the end, it wouldn't relieve me much. As soon as Seybou has his driver's license, he's gonna drive the kids back and forth.

We'll see if there is another teacher who'll come to apply for the position.

Sekouba

I'm worried about Sekouba, because for days now he avoids me, doesn't look at me, shuns me. Today he was freer, laughing around with the others, but as soon as he sees me, the smiles are over and he goes the other way.

I've tried to talk to him but to no avail. Paul told me today that Sekouba was willing to talk to him about it, but it didn't work out for them today. Paul has started school, and he has long days!

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Tuesday, September 26, 2006

Struggles Continued

I think today I had a revelation as to the origin of the chaos reigning these past few days. It all started with the beginning of Ramadan on Saturday. With the country uniting in prayer and fasting to the powers of darkness, there is a tremendous increase of demonic activity, and since our kids not entirely free yet, they respond to that activity.

I for myself am struggling with the effects of lack of sleep. I cried tonight because of the weight on my shoulders, because of my shortcomings, my behavior due to that tiredness, the irritation, the lack of gentleness, the severity. I will have to ask everyone's forgiveness tonight again. In any case, I was crying out to God, simply crying HELP, because of everything - the lack of workers, the lack of money, the children's behavior, the pressure from all sides, etc.

Lord, send the solution!!!

I talked to Marie tonight. She agrees to be our teacher, but she won't start until Dec 1. I don't think I can teach until then without a breakdown (thank God I'm going to Austria in Oct!). Maybe I should hire a teacher after all. What do you think?

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Monday, September 25, 2006

Day Of Rebellion

Paul had his first day of school today, and I was left alone with Firmin to teach the kids. Ever since Abdiel came, there has been an increase in rebellion and disobedience, and all kinds of bad things. Today was not an exception, and I was shocked at my kids' behavior. They really take advantage of Firmin, who has a very quiet and subservient personality, and who does not correct or discipline them, but does everything they want.

During our family time tonight, they had nothing to say, but I was inspired by God to share from the depths of my heart about my worries concerning them, my concern for them, the seriousness of rebellion and complaining, and how it hurts the hurt of God, as well as mine. Nobody replied anything, and I proceeded to lay hands on each one and bless them, as every night. As I did, tears started coming to my eyes. When I was done with them all, I prayed to the Lord, and my heart was nearly broken for what's happening in this house.

I can only pray and hope that some of them have taken my words to heart. Abdias once again fell asleep while I was praying. Abdias and Fousseni often don't listen during Bible class or prayer time; I think it's spiritual.

Abdiel In Hospital

Abdiel started not feeling well yesterday, and getting worse. This morning Seybou took him to our doctor's clinic, and he kept him there. Tomorrow I'll hear the test results but it seems that he's suffering from different things, including malaria, malnourishment, and infections. He's now on a drip to regain some strength. When one in the doctor's team first examined him, he said that he was mentally ill because he barely responded. but our doctor later found that not to be true. It's a scary thing to go from being alone on the street, to being in a house with crazy Christians, and ending up in a hospital with strangers yet again. He's just very shy and frightened, which our doctor recognized. Abdiel has a long journey ahead of him.

Marie Is Back!

After three months, Marie came back today. She did a project for an organization with necessitated her traveling. It was hard to see her go, because she has a clear call of God on her life, and we thought she'd be our school teacher.

I've asked her once again, whether she'd want to do that, but she hasn't replied yet. Marie is getting married on the 11th of November, which is now her main concern.

You should have seen the way the kids rejoiced when she arrived. They were so happy!

Theophostic Training

I've been excited at how an email of mine ended up with Ed Smith, the founder of Theophostic Prayer Ministry, an approach to inner healing. He is traveling with a team to Accra, Ghana, at the end of November, and he personally wrote to me, expressing interest in the work in Mali. I invited him to Mali, and told him I'd try to come to Ghana with Paul, since he is the one assisting me in praying for the kids and adults. However, today I found out that one return ticket costs $800, which would mean $1600 for both of us - too bad :-(

In any case, he's sending me materials, which makes me very happy, since I tried to purchase some this summer, and it just didn't work out.

Visitors

Johanna arrived safely back in Austria. She misses us, and we miss her. Fousseni's sponsor Tina is planning on visiting us in December; she's an "expert" in agriculture and will help us do the vegetable garden and plant the fruit trees. There is also a couple from Austria (most likely not believers) who would like to come to Mali for a year and help out.

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Sunday, September 24, 2006

Night Of Reconciliation

After the service tonight I finally managed to grab Emma and talk to him. I strongly felt to do so last Sunday, but it didn't work out. I humbled myself and asked Emma's forgiveness. Ever since he said he's leaving us, my heart has been very hurt, and I had a hard time seeing him and talking to him. I knew this had to end, and it happened tonight. We talked normally, and cleared up things. Emma is not gone all the way; he's still gonna help where he can.

He also shared some things that bothered him about me, and things he had seen and heard from others in the team. So I suggested we'd all sit down together right away, to take care of everything, and so we did. Things were put on the table, spoken out, and forgiveness asked and extended. We talked for quite some time, until the kids started hammering on the door because they were hungry and it was already 9 pm (and we fast lunch on Sundays). Reconciliation happened, and we decided to all start over together. May it be so!

Abdiel

Abdiel was still fine in the morning, but then he got sick - probably malaria, as well as a cough. He couldn't participate in the service or any other way, and he kept to the side and himself all the time. I hope once his health is restored, he'll be able to integrate and obey. Hopefully the doctor can come over tomorrow.

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Saturday, September 23, 2006

New Addition To The Family

Today we had the first real kids' program again at our current location, since the last few weeks it never quite worked out for different reasons.

We had a small group, but a good group. Two of them have been coming for quite some time, but they're already 18 and therefore unfortunately too old to be taken in. A few new ones came as well, among them Abdoulaye. I noticed Abdoulaye because his clothes were very dirty, and for an illustration in my teaching, I needed to give away a T-shirt to someone. He was the logical choice.

I also noticed Abdoulaye because he was very shy and timid, hardly participating and sitting in the back. In the end, when a good number of children prayed to become children of God, he was not among them, but sleeping in the back.

And yet, my heart went out to him. He was one of the last onces to leave, and I took advantage and asked him a few questions about himself. I found out that he is 11 years old, and that he was given away to a marabout (Muslim teacher) at a very early age. However, he would visit his family regularly, therefore he knows them. He once tried to stay with them, but the marabout came back for him. Now he doesn't live with the marabout, but he goes there every Friday, living at the bus station the rest of the week. One of our long-term 18-year-olds, who is like his chaperon, brought him today.

As I was asking him all those questions, I asked also whether he didn't want to leave the street, and whether he'd like to spend the night here. He said yes, and stayed right away. I took the horrific old T-shirt off, and put the new one on. I took the dirty pants off, and put on new ones. He immediately looked so much better! I took a picture of him, but had a hard time getting him to smile. He sure is a sad young boy.

In the evening, it started to rain pretty hard. The rainy season is slowly coming to an end, but tonight we're having a good downpour. It became clear that he couldn't sleep out in the open. What to do? The rule is that a new kid has to sleep outside for a month before being taken in (for security reasons). So we ended up putting Sekouba's old tent up on the porch, since it would protect him from the rain, and put a new mattress, sheet and pillow inside. I also gave him a tootbrush and toothpaste and explained him what it was. Then I gave him some underwear and a T-shirt he could use for sleeping. He was all set!

Still he was rather quiet, though when he played darts with the kids, and shared "war stories" from the street with the other kids, he thawed somewhat. Then they watched a Christian movie in Bambara, that explains the gospel from beginning to end.

After that it was time for bed, and we had our nightly meeting. I talked to Abdoulaye again, sharing the gospel, and whether he wanted to pray and become a child of God. He agreed, though I sensed a lot of confusion and lack of comprehension. We all prayed a prayer of salvation together. I told him that he was now a child of God and could not be called "servant of Allah" (the meaning of Abdoulaye) any longer. He would now be called Abdiel, which means "servant of God" in Hebrew. I don't know whether he understood what I was saying.

Then I explained what our Sunday would look like, and more confusion came to him when we explained that we Christians do not keep Ramadan though we also fast. Fyi, Ramadan starts tomorrow. This might be the first time he's ever met anyone who's not a Muslim.

It's gonna be quite a start for him tomorrow, the first day being a Sunday, and I pray that he's not gonna be overwhelmed by everything.

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Friday, September 22, 2006

Happy Birthday, Mali!

Today is Mali's Independance Day. All the schools are closed, and I was overjoyed not to have to drive the kids to kindergarten. It meant spending all that time with Him, which made me so happy. For our kids, it was a day like any other. In fact, the Malian school-teacher who stopped by yesterday came this morning to test-teach for 2 hours.

The kids enjoyed her, but I have some reservations, besides us not having the money to pay for a teacher. I also have to talk to Marie to find out whether she's gonna be our teacher; she's coming back on Monday. And I'd like to see a few other teachers. While watching this one today, I was swaying back and forth between saying, yes, let's take her, and no, I'd rather teach them myself. For the kids' sake, it would be the latter, but for all our sake's, I should hand over the job of teacher to someone else, so I can concentrate on other things and not be so tired all the time.

In fact, in our nightly meeting tonight, I not only had to correct the kids, but I had to ask for their forgiveness for my lack of gentleness (a fruit of the Spirit). 5 out 6 forgave me (Sekouba didn't say anything). I lied down for an hour in the afternoon, setting my alarm, and didn't even hear it go off. A few minutes later I woke up when it rang its second time, and I was so tired, I had a hard time getting ready to go to our property to do children's ministry. I was irritable and snappy. Once on the property, when we started praising Him, we all had fun and danced and sang. After that we did a game, and we had about 90 kids. After that we did the teaching and all that's around that. There were fewer kids, but it was very challenging (again) to teach because they all talk all the time. These are younger kids, younger than the street kids coming to us on Wed. Also our own kids couldn't sit still and not talk, and I had to reprimand them several times. Sigh.

Back home, I felt so discouraged, and withdrew into my room, until our nightly meeting. After having asked forgiveness, it was Paul's turn to bless the kids. While he went from one to another, tears ran down my cheeks because I had been so little like Jesus today.

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Thursday, September 21, 2006

Glorious Prayer Meeting

It's 10:20 pm and I nearly took my kids' advice to go straight to bed. They thought it was really funny to see me so tired, unable to keep my eyes open, and leaning on them while praying for them. Yes, I did play around with them somewhat, but not much.

Not long before that, we finished our weekly prayer meeting. It's HIS meeting, and He can do whatever He wants. Since the guitar was broken a second time last Sunday, I used the keyboard tonight. We just started off worshipping God, not knowing that we'd end up doing just that for two hours. The past four Sundays I've talked about praise, worship and His glory, because no one knows how to worship, and because we're called to live in His glory. Little did I know that tonight would be a time of "putting it into practice". I ended up singing prophetically more than ever, and it was powerful. The presence of God came down, and nearly everybody was on his knees on the floor. God spoke about coming up into His presence, about purifying ourselves, and getting ready for the glory tbat was coming. I actually saw a little glory-cloud in the distance, small as a man's hand, that was on the way to us. God also spoke to just come to Him, spend more time with Him, and He would just take care of all the needs and requests.

When the two hours were up and I lifted my hands off the piano, it was just WOW. I knew nothing more could be added, nothing more said. I had wanted to give un update, pray for things, but not tonight. God had a different idea, and I felt uplifted, having met God. I asked the kids whether they had felt God's presence, but only Salim had. In fact, Abdias and Fousseni have a very hard time, and it's definitely spiritual. Every time I preach or teach them the Bible, they don't hear a word I'm saying. And Abdias always falls asleep in the prayer meeting. This afternoon he slept several hours, so I didn't think he would tonight, but he did.

Today, all the kids kept talking about Johanna, calling her "for fun", because they miss her. Johanna was a great blessing, and she wants to come back.

A schoolteacher?

Last night I finally sent out an email to the Christian community in Mali that I was looking for an elementary school teacher, and this morning I already had an answer. The lady even came over right away, and we talked. She seemd very quiet, I had to drill every answer out of her, and she's desperate to earn money. She wants nearly double what I offered (but I know my offer wasn't very good). With all the lack we already have, how would I pay a teacher $90 a month! But I told her anyway to come test-teach one morning, because I just wanted to see the way she teaches. She's coming tomorrow already. After that we'll ask the kids, what their impression is, whether it's a red or green light - a great application for hearing the voice of God which I've been teaching them.

Marie is back on Monday, but she'll be busy preparing her wedding. Originally she was supposed to become the teacher. She said we'd talk when she's back.

By the way, things with Simeon have been going TREMENDOUSLY better since the ONE inner healing session we've done, where it seemed that we didn't get very far. Praise God! We need to do more sessions.

This week we were gonna pray for one child each day, but it ended up only happening once, on Tue with Fousseni.

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Wednesday, September 20, 2006

Good-bye, Johanna!

All day today the kids were aware that tonight Johanna would leave, after one month with us. There were tears and sadness. They all wanted to go to the airport, and so just after midnight we crammed into the car - 8 people - to take Johanna there. Once arrived, Abdias turned very silent, and as always, Fousseni tried to get away from being hugged (though he really wants it). This picture shows Johanna hugging Abdias, but it was not the final good-bye, so Abdias (wearing Johanna's sweater) is still smiling.

My Physical Well-Being

Again, I got up early to take the kids to the kindergarten. It's during the time I've usually spent with the Lord, cutting that very short. Coming back, it was nearly time for our corporate worship time and my teaching them. When I sat down to teach, I could barely keep my eyes open, but when I started, it was getting better. I started having a headache that was really bad and made me irritable. In the afternoon I wanted to lie down for 2 hours or so, but either the phone rang or there was a knock on the door. I did sleep a little, but the headache was still there. I took something against it, which then helped me get through the rest of the day. I had a very busy afternoon with different visitors and errands. Today I've done a lot of driving. Driving I wouldn't have to do if I wasn't the only one with a driver's license. I can't wait for Paul and Seybou to get their license. Their exam is next week Tue and Wed.

One of the intercessors warned me, saying I was on the same road as before the summer. That is true except that I now have my time with the Lord every day and don't allow that to be taken away (of course, having to drive them to the kindergarten is right now affecting that). All summer I was thinking and praying about what the solution is, and I never came to a conclusion except that I need HELP, that I need more WORKERS. If I had a teacher, I wouldn't have to teach the kids. If I had a driver's license, I wouldn't have to drive around. Etc. Marie is coming next Monday, but she'll be busy with the preparations for her wedding, so I really doubt she'll be any help at all. I did send out an email to the missionary community today that I'm looking for a teacher.

In the meantime, keep praying for WORKERS and for FINANCES! And for a new car/van/truck.

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Tuesday, September 19, 2006

Day Of Tears

It started with an email I had this morning; a long awaited email from BE A HERO. Wes had finally come home and talked about our meeting, and learned that right now they are already overstretched with all the projects they have and are not taking any new ones on. Those news were like a punch in my stomach, because Wes made it seem a done deal that they were taking us on. I totally hadn't expected that. Dreams, expectations, shattered, and tears flowed, lots of them. Fyi, BAH was gonna match all the donations given for the construction, as well as be a way for me to receive Canadian donations.

Hama In The Kindergarten

The next reason for tears came when I went to pick up the kids from the kindergarten. When I stepped into the courtyard, there was Hama, near the door, all alone. I picked him up, and went to get the other two, Paul's brothers. Again I was told to see the director. The director then told me that Hama couldn't come to the kindergarten any more. The other parents were complaining about a kid that can't walk and has saliva drip down all the time, and threatened to take their kids and go elsewhere. The teachers also said he can't understand, and today they isolated Hama from the other kids. I was shocked! And my heart hurt. But then, I shouldn't be surprised in a culture like the one in Mali, where children have no value, and handicapped children are never seen. The director - a Christian - apologized, saying he didn't have a choice.

In the end, it's better for Hama to be with us where he is loved, if the people there cannot love him and include him. I have to say that our kids were pretty upset about this as well. All the while, Hama seemed to have enjoyed kindergarten more today, saying bye-bye as we left.

Paul's Brothers

With Hama no longer in the kindergarten, the question fo Paul's brothers also came up. Now that Seybou's son no longer goes there, how to get them back and forth to school. Paul and Seybou take their driving exam next Tue and Wed. But Paul will be in school, and Seybou sleeps in the morning after a long night of watching the house. What's the solution?

Paul got somewhat agitated, as did I. He said it was too complicated, let them stay home. I said, there is always a solution, let's focus on that. In the end it looked like we had found a solution. We'll try for a few weeks, and if it doesn't work, it doesn't. But after all, soon we'll be three people with a license, and one car. Until then I'll just drive them every morning at 8 and 11:30.

Fousseni's Heart

Back home from the kindergarten, it was time for an inner healing session. We started with Fousseni today because of an incident yesterday morning, where he opened up and shared how he was mistreated and contemplating suicide as a young boy.

We took just over an hour, where God touched him, the tears freely flowing, bringing healing and forgiveness to his heart. We learned that the uncle & aunt he lived with at one time where beating him all the time, and that his aunt killed his baby brother, feeding him food the baby couldn't yet. He relived the day his baby brother died, and the beating from his aunt, but he forgave her, and saw Jesus take his happy little brother take to heaven. In the end he saw stars, and I immediately thought of Phil 2, that we shine like stars.

Thank God for the healing that took place today!

Salim's Father

Yesterday Salim's father called for Paul, but it didn't work out for him to go. At the same time I thought that I should go with Paul, since I'm the one in charge. So tonight we went over there.This time Salim's violent father even smiled a few times. The reason he had us come wasn't just Salim but that he wanted to borrow money from me. He was just given a little "Sotrama" (the little green buses transporting people all over town) and he still needs $200 to start his new business. He said he needs those to put his papers in order and start. I told him, we also needed to get our papers in order, and needed his signature to allow Salim to stay with us. So basically it's come down to this being an exchange.

It looks like God gave a solution where there was none before. The only problem is the lack of money. I'm making debts at the bank right now.

No's it's after midnight, and I'm just so very tired. I wished I could have some rest, and I really need to write an email update for everyone. I sleep an average of 5 hours per night now, and it's just not enough.

Tomorrow is gonna be a very busy day. Children's program - last time on a Wednesday - and then we expect three visitors in the afternoon. The carpenter is gonna come bring a desk and shelf, then pastor Enoch is coming from the village, and finally our construction manager who wants to see our property and talk to the electricity guys to see what it would cost to have it go all the way to our property.

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Monday, September 18, 2006

First Day Of Kindergarten

Today I had to get up at 6:45, after four and some hours of sleep, to be able to spend some time with God before having to leave with Hama at 7:30 to go to the kindergarten. I picked up Paul's brothers Etienne and Anatole, and off we went. We dropped the three off at the kindergarten, and waited a few minutes so they'd be comfortable and not cry.

I arrived back home in time for breakfast. I was so tired, I had a hard time. Then we had a time of worship, and of teaching them to hear the voice of God. Since it was the fourth lesson, it was time for an exercise. It ended up taking us much longer than expected, nearly an hour. There were only 45 minutes left - not enough for an inner healing session, so we postponed it. Instead we had school. Then I left to pick up the kids from the kindergarten.

When I got there, the kindergarten teachers said I had to go see the director because of Hama not walking being a problem. So I went over to the primary school and found her. I had mentioned that Hama couldn't walk to her before, why was it a problem now? He said they said he was not talking or understanding either. I explained to her that Hama has only spoken Dogon until recently, and that he's only just starting to understand Bambara these last few months. Now it was all French around him - what do you expect? She accepted that. I just hope they treat Hama right. I'd hate for him to feel rejected by the others in the kindergarten, including the teachers.

After checking into the option of enrolling Paul's sisters there as well, we returned home. I had another hour of teaching until it was 1 pm and time for lunch. We used it well. In the afternoon I kept pretty busy. Time was passing rapidly, and before I knew it, it was 4 pm and time to study with the kids. When we were done, Johanna and I left to go visit Alassane, my former school director at the school I used to teach at. After one year, I returned there and it was good to see those old familiar faces again. Unfortunately Alassane himself wasn't there (in Europe), but I got to talk with other people. From there we left to run some more errands.

Back home, it was soon time for dinner, and after dinner we crossed the street to visit with our influential neighbors who I have favor with. Johanna hadn't met them yet, and they were hers and my former's Bambara teacher's family. Also, Paul had just told me that Salim's father demanded to talk to Paul - not to me, but to him. He didn't have much peace about that.

My neigbhor Fanta (who lived 8 years in Austria in the 70s) enjoyed our company, and we hers. However, concerning Salim, she doesn't want to intervene in this situation. When Paul later went to see Salim's dad, he was already sleeping. So tomorrow, I'm actually gonna accompany Paul there. Please pray for that meeting with this violent, mean man.

Can you imagine that my head has actually fallen down because I fall asleep typing this? Nights are sure too short. It's nearly 1 am now.

The kids have requested to go swimming tomorrow - but it costs a lot of money for so many people....

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Sunday, September 17, 2006

Sunday On The Glory

Today I was able to touch God during my time with Him - something rather rare in Mali, unfortunately. It was not long before the service, so I was expecting Him to do some special things. Also there was a number of attacks, from different sides, that made me think God would do something special. In fact, on one hand those things made me angry, but on the other I had to laugh about it, which was weird.

Paul started leading Bambara worship, with Sekouba playing the djembe as always, and with Firmin playing the tambourine today. They were great. Unfortunately our metal construct to protect us from the sun crashed this week under the weight of the rain on the plastic tarp, so that we weren't protected against the sun today. People suffered. I did the announcements, and had Paul give an testimony about Bible School. Two of the new students were present. Right now we have about 4 new students. We're starting again in two weeks. I also prayed for those starting school tomorrow - Hama, and Paul's two brothers as well as his sisters. Then we welcomed Firmin and also prayed for him.

Then I did the 4th part of the series I've been preaching, on the progression from praise to worship to glory. Last week I talked about the glory, but I had so much to share, that I continued today. Again it was wonderful to see God lead me and speak through me. We had a lot more people also; several who hadn't heard the first 3 parts, and they listenend intently. Even Emma showed up halfway through the sermon.

When I was done, we went into a time of worship like I've done in the past few weeks. There is something to doing the worship time in the end, as a response to the word. I was leading with the keyboard again, Johanna playing the guitar. The piano is my instrument, and I love leading with it! We were worshipping, or trying to for some, and then I asked those forward who wanted to be prayed for, for a greater anointing of his presence and glory. Nearly everyone came, and Paul and I prayed for them. Sekouba was very touched and knelt on the ground.

Then I did what I had nearly forgotten; Johanna stood in the middle and everybody surrounded her and prayed for her. On Wednesday she's returning to Austria. The kids all prayed and a few others, and tears were running down her cheeks. She had pretty red eyes later, when we left for the restaurant.

Finally, it was Abdias's time to go out with us. So far he always disqualified himself with his behavior. I decided to take Johanna to my favorite restaurant across town, where I hadn't been in a very long time. Well, it ended up taking us a whole hour! I took a bad street, with a traffic jam, which cost us much time. Then I got a little lost, and suddenly two soldiers stood at my window, telling me I was going the wrong direction in a one-way street. I apologized telling them I didn't know, and I was lost, and I'd just turn around. They said I had broken the rules, but I asked their forgiveness. The guy just looked at me, and told me to leave. WOW! That's a miracle!!! They let me go without taking money!!!

Arriving at the restaurant, I had a wonderful surprise when I met an "old friend" there I hadn't seen in a while. We joined their table until they left. After that I talked with Johanna most of the time, while Abdias was just happy to snuggle up to me the whole time. And the food was marvelous!!!

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Saturday, September 16, 2006

Yirimadio

I was too exhausted to go anywhere in the morning, and sent Paul alone to the interdenominational worship meeting. He loved it. I tried getting some things done, since I really didn't have any time to lie down again, but I wasn't very effective. In the afternoon the kids practiced their skit one more time, since they would play it that afternoon in Yirimadio, and then it was already 4 pm and time to pray, pack up the car, and go. We were too many with too much equipment to go all at once. I dropped off a first group where the paved road ends and had them walk. Then I returned for the rest of them plus the equipment. To my surprise the first group had already arrived at our property when we returned.

We set the sound system up, and the kids were already gathering. We did one game to start with, and then we sang a few songs, which they loved. After that our kids did their skit, and then I started teaching them on who God is and what He is like. I had plenty of illustrations which they loved. Several adults were also there and listened more carefully than the kids. In fact, they even scolded the kids that were talking, telling them to listen to us. There were about 70 kids gathered, but less than half of them were listening. In the end, a good number of them gave their lives to the Lord, and I prayed for them. By then the sun was already very low and it was time to go home. Again, one group had to walk while I took the other group home, then I came back and picked them up at the end of the paved road. Again, our car fell apart a bit more - the trunk lock fell out, so that we cannot open it any more.

But glory to God, lives were touched and saved tonight!

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Friday, September 15, 2006

More Car Troubles & Prayer Meeting

Like every other week or so, our car had a complete breakdown again. The carpenter had come to put two more bunkbeds up in the boys' room, and when he was done, we took him back to his workshop. When the 4 of us wanted to leave there to go home, nothing worked anymore, not the least sound or reaction.

So I called Emma once more who came, and he was able to take care of the problem, at least temporarily.

In the meantime our prayer meeting had already started back home, and they were praying for us. When we got there, I shared some updates, and then we started praising God. During the first fast song, I saw us jumping and dancing on the enemy and on all our problems in the middle of the room. I shared that and invited them to do so during the next song. We all did, with all our might. It was powerful!!! Johanna also said what a great prayer meeting it was!

We ate late, and then it was already time for bed. Salim's first night in the bunkbed, and Firmin's first night with us altogether. Being 8 people in the house, we've now maxed out the space around our table when we eat. I also don't have any more sheets or towels left. But we do have two more beds for the next kids.

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Thursday, September 14, 2006

Saving Lives

What a day!

After our morning devotions - individual and corporate - we got ready to leave for Dio. But before that I asked the kids to pray for me. After several short nights, and another short night, I was so tired, I could hardly function. After the kids prayed for me, I felt stronger.

All seven of us piled into the car, and we started our 1+ hour journey north. In the little town Kati before reaching the village, we bought a 50kg sack of rice to give to the pastor for all the kids. It's 18% cheaper there than in Bamako. When we reached the village, we asked for the pastor, and there he was already walking towards us. He showed us the way to his little compound. To the right you can see his little church building.

We were greeted by a group of kids and his wife. We went inside the church and talked some, as well as playing with the kids. I'd brought some ballons, and threw them in the air. All the kids joined in the game and loved it!

Then it was time to eat. This poor pastor (money-wise) had seven additional people to feed with us!!! But he gave sacrifically; we each received a piece of chicken, and some rice with sauce. I had the honor of saying grace.

Pastor Enoch showed us around a little (it's small anyway), and introduced some people. Johanna drew some water from the well, and tried pounding corn into powder. Our kids were having fun with the kids there.

I was talking with Enoch, getting to know each other, and mentioned that I loved praying for healing. He then mentioned that there was a little boy called Mamadou. His pagan parents had brought him a few times to receive healing prayers - they had tried everything else out there. 3-year-old Mamadou was still not walking and did still not talk. Of course I said let's go! Paul and Sekouba came with us as well.

We were walking for quite a long time. Pastor Enoch is too poor to have a bike and takes care of families in villages several kilometers away, having to walk everywhere. My heart really went out to him. Wouldn't it be great if we could finance a bike for him? It's not more than $30.

We finally arrived and were greeted warmly. I put Mamadou on my lap, and the guys also laid hands on me while we prayed. My heart went out to this little boy. All the rituals his parents have already put him through! No hope, no Christians around, except for the pastor. We broke off stuff and committed Mamadou into God's hands. He did some crying at different times, and I wonder what happened spiritually there. Let's believe together for his healing and deliverance!

We were walking back. Both ways, Sekouba was grabbing my hand, so we walked hand in hand. He was joyful, and his heart of compassion was touched by the little boy. Back at the compound, we didn't have much time left, since Paul had to be back for driving school. So we got the kids together and did two songs with actions with them. They loved them!! Then I handed out some candy.

Time was already up, time to go home. I really like pastor Enoch. He is a humble, gentle man, who loves the kids. He is doing his best to feed them all. Most of them have one parent, who usually can't take care of them. I told them if he has total orphans (no Mom or Dad) and couldn't take care of them, we'd take them. He said there are 3-year-old twins who don't have anybody, but they weren't there today. He appreciated the offer. He also said he'd like for his daughter to be baptized in our anniversary service end of November. I really believe God has connected us for a purpose. I love his place, and I feel compelled to help him out.

Salim

We were sitting down like every night tonight to talk about the day. I couldn't keep my eyes open any more, being too tired, when Salim made known that he'd been kicked out of his parents' house (again). We're now in the same position again we were in in July. His Father refused to sign the paper, allowing him to stay with us, and still he would. Salim said his Father said he doesn't have a son any more, and his Mom wants him to leave to save Salim.

So we put up the one remaining extra mattress, and got a blanket, pillow, toothbrush, pyjama, underwear etc. Tomorrow the carpenter is coming to install two more bunkbeds. Now one is already full - with Salim and Firmin, who's moving in tomorrow. That leaves two more beds for more kids.

Two more mouths to feeds, two more bodies to clothe, and two more spirits to nourrish.

My eyes refuse to stay open any longer, so I just have to go to sleep.

Please pray for rest, for time to rest, and supernatural strength and refreshing for myself! And that I would get some OFFICE work done.

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Wednesday, September 13, 2006

A Regular Day

This morning we did a full school schedule for the first time. We recently switched breakfast with personal time with God, so now they first spend 45 min with God, then there's half an hour for breakfast, and at 8:45 we start our time of worship and Bible study together and have school till 1 pm. Today we started with Maths, and since they're now all on the same level in reading Bambara, we started reading new papers together. I greatly enjoyed teaching them, and things worked somewhat better than normal.

Why did we even have school since it's Wednesday today? Because it has rained more than I've ever seen in Mali. Our metal structure for the plastic tarp crashed under the weight of the water on the tarp, and because of the rain, we also had to cancel the program. Too bad.

So we took time today for our time of worship, Bible study and prayer together. We hadn't done communion in a very long time, and after last night, I felt it was good timing to do it. We had a precious time together.

Since we are talking about going swimming next Monday, they have incentive to behave better. I told them it'd depend on their behavior. I don't know whether it played into their better behavior today.

In the afternoon, just Fousseni acted up unnecessarily, but later he was okay, and we were able to work effectively for 2 hours.

In the evening we decided to finally watched the best movie I brought home - Narnia. You can't imagine how much the kids loved it! They said they'd want to watch it again tomorrow!

I was gonna work while they were watching, but ended up being with them most of the time. Sigh. I'm hardly getting any work done!

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Tuesday, September 12, 2006

Today Opposite Yesterday

It's 9:45 pm and in a few minutes I'm supposed to sit down with the kids to talk about the day and pray for them, blessing them individually. Right now I'm contemplating letting Paul do our nightly get together without me. Today the kids have gone beyond the limit, and by far. I'm shocked, I'm said, and I'm wondering what I might have done wrong for them to consist of demands, complaints and expressions of disobedience.

In Bambara, when you're sad, you literally say your heart is weeping, and that sure describes the way I feel.

ADDITION WRITTEN LATER: I gathered up my resolve to go join our nightly meeting and left my room when two kids fell onto me and hurt me. I decided then that no way could I talk to them reasonably now and returned to my room. Paul would have to do it alone.

I heard them talk in the other room. After some time Paul showed up and asked me to come join them. I really didn't want to but came. Paul did some talking, and then each kid asked forgiveness for their behavior. Tears started rolling down my cheek. Was it truly repentance? I had heard those words before. Would tomorrow be any different? I told them I'd forgive them, but we'd see whether they had truly repented. Silence. Then suddenly Sekouba started praying, and he was choking as he was asking God for forgiveness. The other kids followed suit (but without emotion). Then Paul prayed for each kid, in quite a mighty way, and even spoke words of encouragement and prophecy to me. When he was then, I knew I had to tell them that their behavior does not cause me to love them less, but BECAUSE I love them it hurts so much.

[end of addition]

Doctor Again...

Change of subject. Today I went to our doctor's clinic with Sekouba. There was so much traffic, it took ages. All the kids have so many issues, revealed mainly by the testing that's been done. Now Sekouba got more medication, as did Fousseni. Will that ever end? And Sekouba needs glasses, so on Thursday he's going to an eye center to have his eyes tested.

On The Upside

This morning we did an exercise to listen to God again. Fousseni now is the only one who hasn't heard or seen anything yet. Today Abdias had something to share for the first time: he saw Paul drive a red car. Now, we do have a read car that is 19 years old, has no engine, is rusting away in the water (rainy season), and has not had the customs papers done. If we could take care of those things, it would sure help to have two cars, since our little car is really to little for all of us plus equipment.

Dio Village

I finally reached the pastor in Dio, and we're going there on Thursday. I've already packed clothes for the 10 orphans there, because they neither have clothes nor food nor anything else. We're also gonna take a 50kg sack of rice with us. And then we'll see what else we could do, and whether we're gonna take some of those kids with us.

Wednesday Kids' Program

Tomorrow we're gonna start the curriculum teaching them the basics of Christianity. Paul and Simeon went twice to invite kids, so I hope we have more kids tomorrow than last week. Also for the sake of our own kids, who have prepared a little skit in Bambara, sticking with our subject.

Tonight I just HAVE to go to bed earlier. The last two nights have been very short, and both days without naps because there was no time.

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Monday, September 11, 2006

Day Of Joy

Today we've really seen a release of joy - in everybody. Salim who is quiet talked more than I've ever seen him talk. Abdias was giggling and giggling, unable to stop. Sekouba jumped around, having fun, and shouting, and so did Fousseni. And we adults were also full of joy. Though I only slept just over 4 hours last night, and didn't get to take a nap, I was pretty active doing some physical work in my room tonight.

Firmin

Today Simeon called me to tell me Firmin was back in town. Simeon had sent word through Firmin's relatives that he should come back to Bamako and see me. It seems he came pretty quickly. Simeon told me a little about Firmin's desperate situation, and he himself told me more details tonight. His father just disappeared 3 years ago; he was also sick, and they think he is dead. After his disappearance, Firmin, who had just moved to Bamako to do the last three years of High school, had to move in with an uncle. That uncle died about a year ago, and his widow didn't have the means to take care of Firmin, so that Firmin had to go hungry and walk all the way to school every day. He never shared any of this with me, and I asked him why. He said he was ashamed. Shame is very strong in Mali, and they are ashamed of things we'd consider ridiculous. I told him if we'd known we could have prayed and helped him out. Then I told him about our need for help and asked him, whether he'd move in with us to work with me. He agreed. I didn't have a home, and you gave me one. I didn't have food, and you fed me. I didn't have clothes, and you clothed me.

The new bunkbeds should be ready tomorrow or the day after. Then he's gonna move in, for a one-month trial period at first. I really hardly know Firmin. He's from catholic background and started attending our church some time towards the end of 2005. He is a very quiet, calm person, and everybody is really happy about him moving in. Firmin is also gonna attend our Bible School, and I think he's gonna grow rapidly.

Different Updates...

Paul and Seybou started their second week of daily driving school, and they both LOVE IT.

We went to the kindergarten today, to give them the pictures of the kids, and I got to talk to the school director who is also a pastor. He knows somebody with connections at the Ministry for Kids, and is gonna use them for us to form a relationship with the Ministry. Praise God! He also invited me to preach at his church.

What the kids love most of all is to go swimming. Today I told them we'd go swimming next Monday, before Johanna leaves, IF they behave well. Fousseni and Abdias have been behaving really bad, while Sekouba has shown a lot of maturity lately.

I've been talking much about worship and the glory, and tonight Paul shared how it is totally beyond him how you can worship God for an hour or even hours. He's seen some on the DVDs I've brought home, and he said he'd watch some of them. That is an excellent idea, because the kids need to see that too. I've been encouraging them to take baby steps to learn to worship, but not seen them do much at all.

Today we ran some errands, like withdrawing money from the ATM. Sekouba went with me, and it was a wonder to him, to put in a card, and get all the money. I explained to him that you needed to have that money in the bank. Though in today's case, I had to borrow it from the bank.

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Sunday, September 10, 2006

His Glory

Today I preached part 3 of 3, on the glory of God. We really had a great service. Because it was raining, we had to do it inside. While praying before the service, I was grieving because of the kids' behavior today. But I was also drawing close Him, desperate for Him to intervene.

During Bambara worship, there was more freedom than I've ever seen in our service. Sekouba was playing the djembe, and the other three boys were dancing freely before the Lord. It was contagious! I grabbed a flag, and so did Johanna, and we danced as well.

After that, I did the offering and then started preaching on the glory. Like last week, the Lord took over, and it always so excites me when He does! I get so excited when he gives me illustrations on the spot, because they're so cool! In any case, I realized there was so much more to say, and decided to do the second half next week. After the preaching, I went to the piano to lead the French worship time. I've found this to be pretty effective, to worship in the end, after having heard to Word, to respond to what He's spoken. This is the third time I used the piano, Johanna playing the guitar, and it worked wonderfully. It's much easier to accompany with the piano than I thought. The piano has always been my first instrument. (I learned classical piano for four years, intensively, with exams and concerts.) So we played worshipful songs, and it looked like people were entering in. I certainly did. Then I invited those forward who wanted all hindrances gone, who wanted to get into the glory of God. Abdias and Simeon responded. With Abdias I felt to ask him whether he wanted the gift of tongues, and he said yes. So we prayed, and he started speaking in tongues. God also touched Simeon. After the session with him yesterday, it seems that I am the one who is different. I have more compassion and love for him again.

After the service, it was time to go to the restaurant again. Who to take with us? Abdias's and Fousseni's behavior excluded them from being eligible, and Sekouba went last time. So we chose Salim (though I found out tonight that he played a big role in today's incident). But then we took Sekouba along as well, so Salim wouldn't feel lonely or out-of-place. Sekobua's behavior has been exemplary, so he deserved it.

So most of the time I talked with Johanna (which I don't get to do much), and the boys talked with each other, but we also had fun together. I had a chance to ask her about her relationship with God, and tell her about my church in Austria.

Back home, we found Paul and the boys dancing with an African worship video, and the other boys joined in. They were all rejoicing and dancing like crazy. What a wonderful sight!

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Saturday, September 9, 2006

Day Of Salvation

At 10:30 am Simeon showed up to have me, assisted by Paul, pray for the healing of his heart. We spent 90 min together, and the Lord was with us. It really was a good time, even though only little progress was made. Please pray that the Lord would completely heal and deliver him, and pray for me and Paul, that we'd know how to help. It's not sure yet when the next session is, since we're not free next Sat.

In the evening, we went to our property in Yirimadio, to show the second half of the MATTHEW video in Bambara. The battery for the sound system was charged up again, and the generator for projector and DVD player still had enough gas. Paul climbed onto the half-finished and abandoned house, and put stones on the white fabric which would be our screen, hanging down from the wall.

The sun was going down rather quickly, and so we were able to start the film. We had about 60 people that night, most of them kids. We put our big plastic tarp on the ground, for them to sit down on, and most of them did. We watched for about an hour, finishing the movie. The kids got more quiet towards the end, when Jesus got arrested and crucified.

When it was over, I went forward, and shared the gospel with them. I had their full attention! I asked who wanted to be forgiven and become a child of God, following Jesus the rest of their lives. Several hands went up, but I couldn't see how many in the dark. I gave them some advice of what to do in their new lives, and asked them forward so I could pray for them. Eight people came to be prayed for; eight people who had just given their lives to the Lord. They confessed it in front of me. Praise Him!

I prayed for them, and also prayed for some people for healng. The boy who was nearly deaf in one year, was here again. His Mom said that he was hearing better since we last prayed for him last week, so we prayed again today. Paul was my interpreter, Abdias held the lamp, and Sekouba stood behind me praying with me.

I was elated as we were driving home. Eight new citizens of heaven! Hallelujah! Next Saturday I'm gonna start teaching the course on the basics of Christianity, originally written for kids, but adults love it too. In fact, Kassim, who just got saved, he carefully listened to many of those teachings.

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Friday, September 8, 2006

Sekouba

This morning, after our teaching session, we had a time of prayer. I mentioned a few topics, and each one picked one. Sekouba picked the 10 orphans in the village, who the pastor can't take care of, and who need food and clothes. While he was praying for them, tears were running down his cheeks. Sekouba has such a heart for the kids out there!

Prayer Meeting

In the evening we had our weekly prayer meeting. We had a great time.

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Thursday, September 7, 2006

Hearing God

Every morning, after the kids have spent 45 minutes in the Word of God and praying, we gather to sing & worship together, study the Word, and pray. A few days ago I started teaching a new curriculum from KIDS IN MINISTRY about the prophetic, about hearing God's voice and the gifts of the Spirit. Every day I do one of four parts of a lesson; after every fourth time we have a practial application time, which was today.

I invited them all to put their hands on their bellies, and prayed for their spiritual ears and eyes to be opened. Then we just listened for a few minutes, not long at all. Johanna was first to share what she'd heard - "those who seek, will find". Then Paul shared two pictures/mini-visions he'd had. Then Salim, and Sekouba. Sekouba is very prophetic. Abdias and Fousseni said they hadn't heard or seen anything. But this is only the beginning of the course!

Village Pastor Visiting

During the conference last week, a village pastor called Enoch approached me. He saw me with the kids, and he shared his desperation of having been given 10 orphans no one wants, and not having the means to care for them. I get approached often by people who want money, but this time I felt a stirring in my heart, not to close it right away to this one. I felt this was a God-thing, and today, Enoch came to visit us.

We talked some more, and probably next Tuesday we're gonna drive to his village to see the situation for ourselves. Enoch is all alone. The network he is a part of has done nothing to help him, and he's having a hard time providing for his family, unable to do anything for those kids people give him. I told him we don't have room yet - not until we've moved to Yirimadio. But we could take two or so. Maybe some of the smaller ones. Maybe we could also help pay tuition for the others, the older ones, so they can at least go to school. I told Enoch that right now I don't have any left myself. But I know that my God provides!

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Wednesday, September 6, 2006

First Construction Estimates

Today Kossi, our construction manager, came over with the nearly final estimate of what the first building phase is going to cost:

Well 30,000 USD
Wall around property 22,000 USD
My house 38,000 USD plus solar panels/generator
Seybou's house & Paul's family's house 46,000 USD plus solar panels/generator

Lord, release the finances so we can build your house!

Even if we had the money, we still need the property papers to start building. Pray for that blockage to be removed!

First Wednesday Children's Program

Today we did our first Wednesday program again, after a two-month break. Simeon is the one who always goes to invite the kids. Today only one kid came - a 19-year-old who's come pretty much regularly in the past. I was somewhat disappointed, but hope more will come next week. I've asked Paul to accompany Simeon next week to invite them.

Having been back for two weeks, I finally pulled Simeon aside today to talk to him, fed up with his behavior. We talked, but he didn't listen. I told him there are two options (1) he finds healing & deliverance, (2) he finds another church. I told him I'd give him a chance, if he would open his heart, to pray for him this Sat morning. He finally agreed. Please pray for that session; I will have Paul to help me pray for him. Pray also for my heart, that I would have nothing against him in there.

Abdias

Abdias is the 13-year-old who needs so much love. Yesterday and today he did some pretty bad things. He came an hour and a half into our 2 hour afternoon study time, so I had him do two full hours, while the others were already done. In the end he was just sitting there. Looking into his eyes, I could see the demonic activity. Finally, compassion arose. I sat down opposite him and told him what he had done was bad, but that I loved him no matter what. Then I took him into my eyes, and he didn't resist. I held him tight, and he held me real tight, while I softly prayed for him. He finally went into this sleep-like state, still holding unto me tight. After some time I put him on a bed in their room to let him "sleep".

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Tuesday, September 5, 2006

Struggles & Salvation

Do you remember Kassim? Kassim is a university student (English & German) who was in my English class, here at the house. He would also show up often for our Wednesday kids' program, and would come to the movie nights. Before the summer I once talked to him more about God. He was searching, and I gave him a few books to read. Kassim is more the intellectual type.

During our New Year's Eve prayer night, we decided to pray for the salvation of three people (possibly) daily this year; Kassim is one of those three people.

Tonight Hyacinthe came by, and he told me that Kassim has given his life to the Lord, and he testified at the conference that took place last week. WOW! He didn't know any more details than that (except that he shared how his father is opposing his "new religion"). I can't wait to talk to Kassim myself. I wished he came by to tell us those great news. Kassim is a wonderful young man. I hope he will join our family to grow with us.

Those were great news tonight, but the overall tone of this day was that something needs to happen. The kids' behavior is most unacceptable. They complain all the time about everything, they don't obey, school is drag, and they are even worse with Johanna - what a shame. I told them it couldn't go on like that. That they'd have to make an effort. And one thing we could do and would do was to sit down and pray for inner healing for each one of them. Nobody volunteered for the first session.

I really don't know what to do. Put them in a school? The 15-year-old will barely want to sit in class with the 7-year-olds.

This afternoon I was able to lie down, and I ended up sleeping really long, but I sure needed it. I was so much more effective in the evening.

Now it's after 1 am, and I need to get up in just a few hours. I'm not a morning person, and am terribly tired when they hammer on my door because once again I haven't heard my alarm clock.

Tomorrow we're doing our first Wed program, but I'm not starting with the curriculum yet. I can't wait to take in new kids! The first bunkbed should be about ready to be put together in the kids' room; need to call the carpenter tomorrow.

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Monday, September 4, 2006

Expenses For Schools, Doctor etc.

KINDERGARTEN - Today I took Elisabeth and Seybou and went to the kindergarten with them, where their kids are gonna go starting Sep 18th and to sign them up.That way they also got to see the kindergarten. They liked it. This time the "boss" was there; he not only has several schools, but he is also a Foursquare pastor. I enjoyed talking to him, and suddenly was inspired to ask whether he has any contacts at the Ministry for Kids & Women. He said yes, he would contact someone, and then we would go there together. Praise God!

Costs I need help with: Tuition for 3 kids, $200 each.

Etienne (5) Anatole (3) Hama (5)

HIGH SCHOOL - Paul wanted to transfer to the same guy's High School, but it's only their first year, and they don't have his grade yet. He was disappointed. Now he's going back to the same school he was at last year. School starts on Sep 25.

Costs I need help with: Remaining tuition for last year $100. First installment for this year $100.

DRIVING SCHOOL - Today Paul and Seybou started driving school. It's a two-week, 5 days a week, course, 2 hours daily. Today it wasn't even an hour because it started raining. Paul was all excited when he came back, because he had already driven the car. Once they have their driver's licenses, I'll let them drive on easy roads for quite some time. Traffic in Bamako is crazy and dangerous. But them having their driver's licenses will help tremendously, because they will be able to run some simply errands themselves.

Costs I need help with: Tuition for 2 people $170 each.

DOCTOR - Today the doctor came back with the results of the tests we did for everyone (9 people). 8 out of 9 had something wrong with them, even if it was little. The former street kids naturally had the biggest health issues. Already three of the four teenagers are on antibiotics, and today all former street kids got more medication prescribed because of parasites in their bodies, for the most part. Sekouba and Fousseni also have to take another test.

Costs I need help with: Doctor $100 per month, medical tests $130.

SCHOOL STARTS - Today I started teaching the Bible course on how to hear God's voice. It was great; I love having the visuals (I brought them back from the US). After that, I taught a French class, and it went well. Johanna is gonna take over teaching that class in a couple of days. In the afternoon, we also did some reading. I'd like Salim to catch up with the others, since he's done more years at school than all the others, and he's having an easy time for the most part.

First day of school, and I'm already so tired. I was barely able to get up this morning. And then the electricity stopped working and we needed to call an electrician. It took him a long time to find the problem and fix it and restore electricity to our house. So I lost the time I could have had for a nap, trying to stay awake, to the amusement of the kids.

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Sunday, September 3, 2006

First Service Outside In Months

This morning, Paul and the three boys went for the last time to the conference, hearing the Burkinabe preacher. I for my part enjoyed a quiet morning with the Lord - my favorite time in the week, Sunday morning. At 2 pm we did our worship rehearsal. Last Sunday I used the keyboard for the first time, but it was today it worked really well; I was better prepared. It was great to have Johanna play the guitar (who plays very well), and to be able to play the keyboard, the piano being my favorite instrument.

After all the rain yesterday, we had blue sky today. No danger for our service outside. We moved the services inside in June, I believe, so it was great to have it outside again which works much better. Unfortunately we didn't have more people today. Just us, and Emma.

Paul led the Bambara worship, with Sekouba playing the drums, and Salim the tambourine. The kids all enjoy the tambourine I brought back from the US. When I took the mic, I had Abdias and Fousseni testify about what God did yesterday morning. I took them courage, but they did. Then I started preaching, on worship. Last week I talked about praise, next week about the glory. Today it went GREAT. God took over, and I was amazed myself at the illustrations and words that came forth. I hope they will take it to heart. Our church needs to learn to worship.

And in fact, we put it into practice right away. We did the French worship time at the end of the service. I played the piano, Johanna the guitar. I invited everyone forward (Elisabeth had also shown up by then) and had them close their eyes to look at Jesus. After two songs I read Revelation 4, having them imagine it before their eyes. I for my part started feeling the presence of God even while preaching, and He was sure there while we were worshipping in the end. They did an effort, and I hope they will strive to come closer to him and enter into worship.

When the service was over, Johanna and I were planning on going to the restaurant to eat. Johanna wanted to take one person with us - but who? She was gonna cast lots. Unfortunately Abdias and Fousseni were no one to be seen, so we ended up taking both Sekouba and Paul with us. And we had a great time at the restaurant, eating good food, and enjoying each other's company.

Coming back home, we found three unhappy little guys with stony faces - Abdias, Fousseni and Salim. They were angry because we hadn't taken them. We told them we had wanted to give them a chance too, but not found them, but that didn't comfort them.

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Saturday, September 2, 2006

Conference & Yirimadio Movie Night

Like yesterday, Paul and the kids took a taxi this morning to go to the conference going on this week, with a Burkinabe preacher. Sekouba's back was hurting, so he stayed home. Johanna also stayed, as she did yesterday. I stayed to get things done. We were waiting and waiting, and they were still not back home.

Finally, just after 2 pm they showed up. Fousseni and Abdias stormed into the house, all excited, shouting, "I've seen Jesus!". It turned out that the speaker prayed for people at the end of the service, and it was a very powerful time. Paul said that he prayed for him and prophesied over him, though he still hasn't told me any details. And the boys said that they had their eyes closed, but they saw Jesus walking by and He touched them. Abdias said Jesus laid his hand on his chest and healed his heart before walking on. And Abdias saw Jesus lay His hand on his head and on his chest. They were so excited! Praise God!

We only had an hour, before it was time to start preparing for our "party" on our property tonight. The challenge was transporting everything over there - from the food, drinks, to the sound system and movie screen. We had two very full car loads to get it all over (the picture includes Abdias and Johanna). Which means, in all, I've done the trip 4 times today, and I don't want to do it another time! If it was all paved road, it wouldn't be such a big deal, but I had to deal with big potholes, with lots of water and horrible dirt roads, as well as very narrow places on the "road" at times. Emma told me to avoid our old car being shaken, but it's impossible!

All day long the dark was sky, and it was raining a lot. I thought, good thing, let it rain now, so that it won't be at night. We were praying for the rains to stop in time for our event. When we loaded the first car, it was raining. I was discouraged. Several times now we had to cancel things because of rain. Should we even bring the sound system? We only loaded the food-related stuff in the car, in case we couldn't show the film. Before I left the first time, I extended my hand towards the sky and commanded the clouds to move and the rains to stop. By the time we arrived at the property, the rain had stopped and the sky was clearing up. We unloaded, and I drove back home for the second load.

Back at the property the second time, it was high time to serve the food. Each of our kids had his task. The picture shows Sekouba putting the couscous on the plate, Fanta adding the sauce, and Salim taking the plate to give it to somebody. We had prepared food for 100 people, and at least 120 people ate. Sekouba told me later that he could see the food multiply in the big pot while he was dishing out the couscous.

While they were serving the food, we were preparing the movie. It was the first time we used the battery and generator. I had familiarized myself with how everything worked, but I had never actually used them.

One challenge was where to put up the screen, and we had to remove the wooden beams, because they wouldn't fit in the car. So Seybou climbed up the wall of the unfinished house on our property, which worked perfectly for the screen, putting heavy stones on the white fabric hanging down. We had also taken down the big plastic tarp we use in our garden to protect ourselves from the sun during kids' programs on Wednesdays. It was perfect for putting it on the ground and having people sit on it.

At first, I couldn't get the sound system to work with the battery. Thankfully I had brought the manual and found what I hadn't done. The sun was already disappearing and it was time to get started. Everything was connected, the generator set up, and it was working. Praise God, it was all working! I took the mic, and welcomed everybody. I told them who we were, and what we were planning on building here. Then we started the movie. It was great to see it work! We showed them the MATTHEW Jesus movie in Bambara. I sat down on the tarp, Abdias at my side, and Hama later joined me.

About 45 minutes into the video the battery turned dead. I had been unable to fully charge it, because it would kick our fuse at the house repeatedly because it needs so much energy. Even just now while I'm writing it, the power went out because I'm charging it. So we had to stop the movie, and asked them whether they wanted to see the rest of it next week. At first they all said nothing or even know, but then after asking a few more times, they said yes. So we're gonna show the end next week.

But before I released them, I told them Jesus was still alive today, and He still heals today, and we would love to pray for them for healing if anyone needed it. It was dark, but they were all crowding around me. Paul was at my side to translate and pray, while one after the other came. I'm curious to hear next week who was healed. There was one deaf boy, who could only hear very little, and he said he heard more after we prayed for him. His mother was excited about that.

By the time we were home it was pretty late. I had to go twice to get everyone and everything home again. Back home the kids got ready to go to bed, and we had our daily time of talking about the day, and what is ahead tomorrow, and of praying for each one, blessing them each. Salim now makes a point of staying, so he also gets a blessing.

We also have this new "mother son" thing since my return. I demand a hug from each one of them before they go to bed. So while we pray, I already get up and stand in their path to their room, and they're having fun trying to get around into their rooms and beds, using all kinds of means, but of course they do want their hugs in the end. Changing a nation one person at the time!! (Malians don't hug.)

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Friday, September 1, 2006

Getting To Know Our New Neighborhood

In the late afternoon we all left to go to our property in Yirimadio, to pray, and to invite people to come to our movie night the following night. We split into four teams, each going into a different direction, with papers to give to people to invite them over. My team included Abdias and Sekouba. Sometimes Sekouba did the talking, sometimes me, or both of us. Abdias was always at my side, holding my hand, or my arm around him. And more and more kids from the neighborhood started following us. The picture shows me with Abdias and all those kids (Sekouba took it). We went from house to house, talking to people, and were received well. More and more people now learn about us and that we are building a church on that property. That's good.

Back on our property, we put up some papers around there as well, to help people find us.

Then we gathered to pray. We sang a few songs, and all prayed. In the end, Simeon said he wasn't doing well. He knelt down in the middle, and everybody laid hands on him and prayed for his healing.

It was getting dark by the time we left to go home (around 7).