Send me your comment on this blog

July 2007
June 2007
May 2007
Apr 2007
Mar 2007
Feb 2007
Jan 2007
2006
2005

back to top

archive home

Friday, August 31, 2007

You might have noticed that I didn't write a blog yesterday - the first blog-free day in a while :-). I actually spent the whole day at home, catching up on emails and other things needing to be done, which was so wonderful.

At night, my friend Linda gave me a purse filled with some practical stuff. I was amazed! After being given all those beautiful clothes, I was thinking, now all I still need is a purse and shoes. And then she gives me this purse! Wow!

When I came to Kansas City to live 6 years ago, the Lord sent me to World Revival School of Ministry (Smithton Outpouring) though I knew nothing about it and had never been there. When I got there, a dream came true and my life was changed forever.

Though I'm now supported by another awesome church in KC, every time I'm back to town I visit them on Fridays. I enjoyed seeing many old friends, and after the service I had a chance to speak with pastor Steve & Kathy Gray for a few minutes. They were excited to hear what God is doing in Mali.

back to top

Send me your comment on this blog

July 2007
June 2007
May 2007
Apr 2007
Mar 2007
Feb 2007
Jan 2007
2006
2005

back to top

archive home

Wednesday, August 29, 2007

After weeks of day after day of amazing, exciting blogs, finally a day where I won't have to write much :-).

I was so glad to be able to sleep in today, catching up a little on sleep. I had lunch with my good friend Elisabet, which was wonderful. She took this picture in the restaurant; I wished I had one together with her.

I then drove to IHOP (Mike Bickle's house of prayer) and spent a little time there. I was somewhat disappointed at the changes they've made since my last visit. Less space for people, and every seat is either taken or reserved. No more room to lie down on the floor or set your computer on a table. That's too bad.

My friend Elisabet found a movie we'd both like to see, and so we went to the dollar theater and saw OCEAN'S 13. After the movie, I went to Walmart and did some grocery shopping. You can buy anything you want (if you have the money)!

Back home, I started catching up on reading and writing emails, and enjoyed spending a little time with my hosts and friends Bill & Linda, who minister many months out of the year in Uganda. I've enjoyed my evening, and it's gotten late once more, nearly 2 am, but I can sleep in tomorrow. Praise God!

back to top

Send me your comment on this blog

July 2007
June 2007
May 2007
Apr 2007
Mar 2007
Feb 2007
Jan 2007
2006
2005

back to top

archive home

Tuesday, August 28, 2007

I had been blessed with a night at the beautiful hotel on the grounds where CBN is located. It's one of the biggest Christian TV stations in the US, founded by Pat Robertson, who also moderates a daily show called 700 Club. I've been watching this show on and off thanks to it being online.

The Mom of the wonderful family I've been staying with works for CBN, and she arranged for me to be in the audience of the show today, and then have a tour of the studios. Wow! It was awesome!!!

Having watched it for years, I now had the chance to look behind the scenes. I sat in the first row, and the only hindrance to my view were the TV cameras that would sometimes be right in front of me.

Today Pat Robertson and Terry Meeuwsen moderated the show. Terry is friends with the family I've been staying with, and a lunch with her had been arranged. Awesome!

I think what impressed me most was to see how genuine both are. They are the same in front of the camera as when they are off. They are the real deal! I watched them during the reports and saw they were genuinely moved by the reports and shocked by others, and interested in the guests. The picture was taken after the show that ended with the BRING IT ON questions - Pat is sitting on the right, and Terry is the one in the green on the left. Then I was even more amazed as Terry came up to the audience and started shaking every person's hand and asking where they were from. She was so warm and interested in each one.

This pictures shows me sitting on the set where the guests are interviewed. It is a prophetic picture because the day will come...

I then had a 90 minute tour of the studios, but had to leave a little early. I loved it! I wished they had told me all about the technology, but instead the tour guide was an art lover spending 80% of the time talking about the paintings in the hallway.

I went back to the hotel to go have lunch with my host family and Terry. We had a wonderful 90 minutes of fellowship. I love Terry and her heart, especially for orphans. She was genuinely interested in knowing more about story and what's happening in Mali. In fact, she already knew quite a bit since she was at a fundraiser Ryan had organized for us. She's a lovely lady, and in the end she shocked me when she said she'd be praying for me. It was a warm good-bye, and "we'll see each other again".

I then had to say good-bye to Beth, and went to spend some time talking with Ryan. It was wonderful hearing more of what's been going on over here in the US and what's on their heart for the future. And now the great news I could hardly believe by email:

They have raised enough to finish the wall - $16,000 - and more is on the way! Can you believe that??? Radical lovers of God, all around 20 years old, changing the world.... This is the generation to take the world for Christ!

Back in the hotel it was time to pack, and then Frank took me to the airport, where I had to once again say good-bye to another loved one.

Now I'm on my way to Kansas City, with a layover in Cincinnati. I'm arriving at 10 pm, and for the first time I'll be on my own, getting a rental car and driving to my friends who I'm looking forward to staying with.

back to top

Send me your comment on this blog

July 2007
June 2007
May 2007
Apr 2007
Mar 2007
Feb 2007
Jan 2007
2006
2005

back to top

archive home

Monday, August 27, 2007

Is there a limit to how much blessing we can take? I think so. Tonight I asked myself this question when another potential blessing was thrown out there of what people here wanted to do for me. But I also believe that our capacity to bear the good as well as the bad is much greater than we generally think. I'm reminded of an experience I had with God in England in 1995. I was doing a 2-week outreach with Intervarsity, and it was in the very beginning. We all camped out in a church, and it was a church that had been transformed by the renewal coming from Toronto. The following paragraph describes in my words from back then what happened:

Every night during the mission I played the piano as long as possible (up to midnight) and then enjoyed having my time with the Lord while everybody went to bed, singing and talking to Him in this big church hall, with the doors shut of course.
It was the second night in Bournemouth when I again went into the hall and started praising the Lord and singing to Him. I was so full of love for Him and thanksgiving! After a short time, I suddenly fell forward to the floor. What was happening? I hadn’t really fallen under God’s power yet being with Him alone. So I lay there wondering and enjoying God’s presence, waiting what would happen. Suddenly God just poured out His Spirit on me in an absolutely amazing way! Wave after wave of His love came on me, even increasing till I nearly had to say, stop, it’s too much! And then I started to sing in tongues in a way I had never before! It was so beautiful and God was so close! I didn’t want to stop at all! When I finally got up and went to bed, about one and a half hours had passed.

I still remember the intensity of the waves of God's love, and how I thought I couldn't take any more. Somehow I'm reminded of that as I think of the blessings the Lord has poured out on me recently, using His people over here in the States. I'm so full of thankfulness, so overwhelmed by His goodness, there is no way I can express it with words. I thank the Lord for His people, and for using them as His reflection. I thank the Lord for sending people into my life who love me with His love and who honor me as a daughter of the King.

Let me start from the beginning of this day:

Another short night, but at least for an exciting reason. I got up early to do a theophostic session with Frank. He took time off, and I was very thankful for it. Frank does this full-time, so he's very experienced. We went to his office, where he had nearly 4 hours set aside for me. It was a tremendous session where the Lord took me to a traumatic early childhood memory and brought deep healing and resolution. I was so full of joy and of His presence when we were done, and so overwhelmed by my heavenly Daddy's goodness. I was also so very thankful for Frank and His time and His extending himself to bless me in this wonderful way. Lord, bless all this marvelous people and repay them multiple times! They don't even know how much all of this means to me, but God knows.

Frank then took me to the mall, where his sister was waiting for me to take me shopping for clothes. Just two days ago, Frank's wife blessed me BIG time with clothes, and now her. How is that!!! We were in there for a long time. I kept trying on clothes she or I would pick out, and ended up with a little selection of those I really liked. And the most amazing thing was that she got them ALL for me. Just now it makes me cry to think about it.

I talked to Paul and Firmin and told them they won't recognize me when I come back - changed on the inside and on the outside. I also keep thinking, my friends in Kansas City won't recognize me! (I'm going there tomorrow.)

I'm just so blown away, how God is making me into a beautiful bride for my husband-to-be who I'm gonna meet soon. Wherever I turn, He uses His people as a part of the preparation process, like Esther, who underwent months of beauty treatment. Wow!

After shopping, I packed my bags once again, and they drove me to the hotel FOUNDERS INN next to the CBN TV studios (Christian TV), where I checked in for one night. They wanted to bless me with this night at the hotel. Later they picked me up, and we went to their house, and I saw Ryan again who had just arrive from the airport. Ryan is their son and the team leader of the American team that came over in May. I so enjoyed our evening together, just talking and talking. It's such a blessing to have someone to share your heart with, especially with amazing people like this family.

back to top

Send me your comment on this blog

July 2007
June 2007
May 2007
Apr 2007
Mar 2007
Feb 2007
Jan 2007
2006
2005

back to top

archive home

Sunday, August 26, 2007

For the first time in over 13 years I went to an Anglican church. It very much reminded me of the time back then that so changed my life when I went to a weekend healing conference at this charismatic Anglican English-speaking church in the heart of Paris, and the Lord baptized me in the Spirit without me having any clue what was happening. It was the very day God started moving in Toronto.

Now I was in an Anglican church again, the church my hosts attend. The pastor had already heard about me and welcomed me warmly. I was introduced to a few people, and then the service started. The worship was mixed, contemporary with hymns, but God's presence was tangible. I so enjoyed the time of worship and just abandoned myself to the lover of my soul. I knelt on the floor worshiping my King with my whole being, and was sad that they didn't continue for longer. Soon after that it was my time. Frank introduced me, and then I had 10-15 minutes to share. Unfortunately the pictures didn't work out as planned, but I just shared my heart, telling them of all the great things God is doing in Mali, and from the response later I could tell the Lord captured their hearts.

After the preaching they had communion, and I had been asked to join the other prayer teams at the end to pray for people. I teamed up with Frank, and just loved ministering to people. He's very prophetic, and so we both flowed in the prophetic, and the Lord was beautifully touching people. Twice people coming up didn't want to receive prayer, but to pray for me, and I joyfully accepted. His presence was so tangible, I just wanted to keep soaking and stay in His presence. I was exhilarated as we left the church to have lunch. I was so overwhelmed with joy and thankfulness to my great God, I could hardly contain it.

We had a great time at the restaurant, eating wonderful food, and then went home to rest a few hours. I should have taken a nap since I had only gone to bed at 3:30 am because it took me so long to print my brochures, but I rested doing stuff on the computer and talking to Paul in Mali.

In the evening, they had invited over some parents of the May American team plus another lady. We had a great dinner together, and then I showed them my pictures on the TV and just told them everything. Everyone listened carefully and loved it, especially since they had had their own kids over in Mali and now got to have a fuller picture.

After everyone was gone, we kept talking more for a while, and for some reason, I've just enjoyed immensely talking to Frank and Beth, just talking away. I've been so blessed by them and the time here!!! Tonight, Frank's sister offered to hem my new pants. Knowing that Beth had bought me new clothes yesterday, she asked if I could use more, and then just said she'll take me tomorrow. For a moment I felt tears welling up because of all the kindness, and blessings, and treatment like I've rarely experienced it in my life. They treat me as the daughter of the King, and it just does something to my heart. I so strongly feel God's presence and love in their house. It's so precious, it's gonna be hard to leave.

When they went to bed, I went to print out more brochures - but thankfully it's a little earlier than last night, but 2 am nonetheless and I have to get up early.

back to top

Send me your comment on this blog

July 2007
June 2007
May 2007
Apr 2007
Mar 2007
Feb 2007
Jan 2007
2006
2005

back to top

archive home

Saturday, August 25, 2007

Wow! What a day! What a wonderful time in Virginia Beach! I had no expectations, and that's when you get surprised and blessed the most.

Though I had gone to bed late, I woke up at 7 am, but fell asleep again, getting up at 9 am. It was wonderful not to have to get up at a certain time. I took my time in the morning, and my wonderful hosts cooked a dream breakfast consisting of bacon and eggs. I then took care of some phone calls and talked to Paul via skype for over an hour.

Things are going well in Mali. Paul is faithfully discipling the new believers around our property, and a few faithful ones are now being established. I think our church will double in size when we move to our property in two months. The kids are in the village for another week, and it seems that they're behaving well. For Paul it's strange to be in the house all by himself, as Firmin spends much of his time in school, but he spends most of his time praying and reading his Bible which he enjoys.

In the afternoon, my hosts took me to the harbor where we walked around for a while, looking at the ships and the huge boat repair cranes (see picture).

And then Beth did something that really blessed me. She asked me whether I needed clothes, and I admitted that it was a real need right now. She said she wanted to buy me a new outfit, and so we went to the store together. Shopping is not something I know how to do; it is rather foreign to me and a little uncomfortable. But Beth is an expert, and she picked out clothes for me to try on, even getting the size right, and after a while it even was a little fun. I tried out all kinds of clothes, and found some wonderful ones. She blessed me with 3 beautiful shirts and 2 pants. I was so thankful for having nice clothes again, and my size, and I can't wait to wear them. I felt like it was another step in the preparation for marriage God has me in right now, making me beautiful for my husband-to-be.

After our shopping excursion, we all drove to the coast where I finally saw the beach and the Atlantic sea. So far I had only seen it from the other side, from England and France. We went for a little walk before and after going to the restaurant, in the dark, on the sand, putting our feet in the water, and walking on the pier. It was so wonderful!

Then we had dinner in this beautiful restaurant on the beach, where I ate a wonderful steak. I ate more than I should have! Lord, keep me from regaining weight! ;-) On the way to the car we passed a little amusement park, where I took some pictures for my kids and wished that they were here with me. I actually often wish that as I go to all these wonderful places meeting all these great people.

What I've enjoyed most of all since arriving here last night is the company of my hosts Frank & Beth. They are giving their all to make my stay unforgettable, to bless me any way possible, and to provide a place of rest and refreshing. They have been asking questions about Mali and my life, keeping me talking for much of the time, and I've enjoying sharing with them big time. I rarely get these precious opportunities to share from the deep levels of my heart.

Right now it's 1:30 am and I'm printing more of my flyers for the service in their church tomorrow morning. I ran out, and I'm sharing for 15 minutes in their church. It's gonna be another short night. Please pray for me if you can. I'm still battling this cold that has been trying to get me for a week now.

back to top

Send me your comment on this blog

July 2007
June 2007
May 2007
Apr 2007
Mar 2007
Feb 2007
Jan 2007
2006
2005

back to top

archive home

Friday, August 24, 2007

After a short night I had to get up very early, pack up my stuff, and be ready for the drive to Atlanta (over 2 hours). It was Peter (our architect), his boss (a developer) and me in the car. We had an appointment at 11 am with Naomi Zacharias of Ravi Zacharias Ministries (RZIM) that Peter's boss set up. He is a supporter of RZIM and told me that Naomi heads up a ministry supporting work like mine, and I'd just have to meet her.

The offices were in this beautiful building; everything was state-of-the-art, I really felt out of place. Naomi saw us in a conference room, and we had a good meeting. Peter's boss shared his thoughts, I shared my heart, and Naomi shared what they do and how they do it. She wants to stay in touch with me. As Peter's boss said, the seed has been sown, now let's see if it will grow.

Next Stop: Virginia

Leaving RZIM, they took me to the local subway train station downtown Atlanta. They had a meeting downtown, and so I took the train that would go straight to the airport. Arriving at the airport, I was glad I get to go through the quick lines as a frequent traveler as there were masses of people in line. I had plenty of time to get to the gate. The flight to Norfolk (Virginia Beach) was about an hour and a half, and I was so tired, I got a little nap in.

Arriving in VA, Frank picked me up. I met Frank in Ghana last Nov/Dec, and his son Ryan headed up the team that came over in May. We drove to their house, where I finally met Frank's wife, as well as his Mom. They have a gorgeous house, and I felt so welcome and so blessed by them. We had dinner in the back yard, next to the swimming pool, and just talked and talked all night. What a beautiful place, with beautiful people!

back to top

Send me your comment on this blog

July 2007
June 2007
May 2007
Apr 2007
Mar 2007
Feb 2007
Jan 2007
2006
2005

back to top

archive home

Thursday, August 23, 2007

Peter, our architect, and his boss organized a luncheon today where they invited pastors, leaders and business people. 19 people came. I had an hour to just share my heart.

It was located in this beautiful southern-style house in the middle of a golf course, right by a lake (see picture). They had sandwiches and salad, and we started eating as people arrived. I had to be quick, so there was sufficient time for me to talk. We connected my computer to the big screen TV, and I showed my pictures and 5-minute video. Everyone was listening attentively. In the end there were a few questions, and Peter also added some comments.

As people were dispersing, I was asked how much money I was lacking on a monthly basis, and I told them about $1700. Then they said, it should be possible to find 17 people who can commit to give $100 a month, and people started saying, "I will", "I will",... I was blown away! I don't know how many said that, but they said they'll find 17 people in total. I still can't believe it! I cannot express what that would mean to actually have our monthly budget met! I'm amazed, in awe, and hardly dare to think this could be true, before seeing the proof with my own eyes. People have been praying for FAVOR, and I've had so much favor this week, like never before in my life! What a great God we serve! He truly takes care of His kids!

Mali Meets South Africa

In the afternoon I had a one-on-one meeting with a South African pastor who was just in town. He is part of the EVERY NATION church movement (His People); I don't really know it. They are strong in relationships, and in missions, including economic development. The main thing I've been praying for months is help medically, and economically. He said they could send us a medical team next year, and he told me all about their training in business and development which is great. They also have lots of French speakers down in Cape Town, who he's gonna put me in touch with. We had a good time of exchange; God knows how He's gonna use this.

My Friend Christy

In the afternoon we got some errands done, and then my good friend Christy came over to spend the evening with me. It was great having some time to talk. She's 6 months pregnant for the first time in her life. What an exciting time!

I'v known Christy for 12-13 years, and it's thanks to her that her Dad is our architect, and that I'm now here, God opening all these doors. They are already making all these plans for the next time I'm coming back to Augusta. Praise God.

back to top

Send me your comment on this blog

July 2007
June 2007
May 2007
Apr 2007
Mar 2007
Feb 2007
Jan 2007
2006
2005

back to top

archive home

Wednesday, August 22, 2007

This morning I had to get up really early - at least for Californian time - and Judy dropped me off at Peter's (our architect) workplace, where I had a chance to check my emails. When the time came, Peter drove me to the Christian school where I was the "chapel" speaker. Peter had actually designed that school/church years ago.

I only had about 20 minutes, and the projector didn't work. I was introduced and then I started off by telling them if they had born in Mali, they would either be dead or a street kid or enslaved to an uncle etc. It got their attention, and I just shared from my heart. There were about 60 kids, and they listened attentively. I also challenged them that God has a great plan and destiny for each one of them, and not to limit Him, but He could do great things with each one of them. About 10 took my info flyer afterwards. It was a good time.

A friend of Judy's drove me home, taking the opportunity to meet me and find out more. Back home, I had a chance to talk to Paul for an hour, and get some things done before taking a nap.

Back In Mali

Paul was very excited about the money that has come in for construction. To my greatest surprise, he told me how much my faith has impacted him and the kids. He told me that nobody believed we'd be moving into a house in October.

He also told me that 3 weeks after Firmin's accident, he still has pain and problems with that arm, not being able to write or eat with it. I'm so fed up with Malian doctors and am praying hard for God to send us a Western doctor soon. Luckily, an American doctor who lives in Mali was online on skype, and I asked his advice, where Firmin could go. He gave me the name of a clinic and a guy there, and I passed it on to Paul. Please pray for Firmin's healing.

Paul is doing good, but is struggling with being alone at home a lot, since the kids are in the village and Firmin at school a lot. Africans are never alone, and can't stand it. At the same time he told me that he enjoys having much time to pray and read his Bible.

A South African Minister

In the evening, a guy from South Africa spoke in one church, and we all went there. After the meeting, we talked with the pastor, to find out a few things, and they thought it would be good for me to meet with the South African pastor. So they're trying to work something out for tomorrow.

Back home, I spent some time working on the drawings for our main building with Peter, making some needed corrections before he gets it done with the computer.

back to top

Send me your comment on this blog

July 2007
June 2007
May 2007
Apr 2007
Mar 2007
Feb 2007
Jan 2007
2006
2005

back to top

archive home

Tuesday, August 21, 2007

It was so good to sleep in! After a week in California where my body clock had to adjust to 7 hours earlier, now I had to adjust to 3 hours ahead - poor body. And in fact, the lack of sleep during the conference and the travels have weakened my immune system, and I've been battling a virus/cold. I felt pretty miserable all day, taking Airborne and cough drops, and headache medication before the meeting.

In the evening, my friends (he's our architect) had set up a meeting to invite any- and everyone to. About 10 people showed up, and for 90 minutes I showed pictures and the little clip and just shared what God is doing in Mali. People loved it. It was a personal time of fellowship, and I felt loved and at home. The meeting took place in the church offices of my friends' church, and the pastor was very kind. This church has sent us money once before, and this Friday they do a yearly movie night, where they are going to raise money for our building project. The expect about 2000 people! Please pray that the Lord would touch their hearts (Christians and non-Christians alike), and cause them to be generous. What a potential! They see the movie CARS, but they will also show them the 6-min video clip.

After the meeting I had some good conversations. I was moved to find out about one couple who was there that they had kept in touch with what is happenig in Mali and pray regularly for us, and had even sent money through the church here. I had never heard of them and from them, and yet, there was a behind-the-scenes support I knew nothing of. Thank You, Lord!

back to top

Send me your comment on this blog

July 2007
June 2007
May 2007
Apr 2007
Mar 2007
Feb 2007
Jan 2007
2006
2005

back to top

archive home

Monday, August 20, 2007

After a short night, I got up early and was picked up at 7 am to be taken to the Los Angeles airport. There was little traffic (surprise!), and I also passed quickly through check-in and security thanks to my frequent flyer status. And, I got upgraded to first class. Praise God!

It was a four-hour flight to Atlanta, and I used the time to get a nap in, and I even got a nice little meal. Arriving in Atlanta, it was suddenly three hours later and late afternoon. Soon my friends Peter (our architect) and Judy came to pick me up. We had a bite to eat at the airport before starting the 2-hour trip to Augusta. We had a great time of fellowship. Arriving at her house, my friend Christy (their daughter) even came over to say hi. Actually, I know them through Christy who I met many years ago in Austria when she studied there. Amazing, how God connects us and uses those connections for His glory!

back to top

Send me your comment on this blog

July 2007
June 2007
May 2007
Apr 2007
Mar 2007
Feb 2007
Jan 2007
2006
2005

back to top

archive home

Sunday, August 19, 2007

The last day of the conference. In the first service Henry Madava, pastor of the largest Ukrainian church (but he is African), was speaking. Then Claudio Freidzon, one of the key leaders of the Argentine revival, did the second service. It was great! Claudio stirred such a hunger for more of HIM in my heart, and I received by the faith the impartation he prayed over all of us. He said that 2007 was a year of new breakthroughs, a key year we'd look back to.

Between the two meetings, I lined up in the bookstore to get a few of the sessions on CD, those that were more significant to me. Just then, the HIM administrator saw me and asked what I was getting. I told him, and then he simply walked up to the cashier and told her that HIM was paying whatever sessions I was getting. So I ended up getting the whole conference set for free! Wow! Thank You, Lord! I had tears in my eyes as I went back to my seat. I thank God for people like this man.

After the second service, the lady who's been driving me, took me home. However, we went through a drive-thru so I could get some lunch. I got some things done at home, and at 4:30 she was already picking me up for the evening service - the last one - with Claudio Freidzon.

Never The Same Again

Not having taken a nap in the afternoon, and being extremely tired, I lay down the 30 minutes I had between reserving my seat and the beginning of the meeting. I even slept a few minutes on that couch in the lobby, and felt much better afterwards. Little did I know how profound the meeting would be, and how wise it was to get some rest beforehand.

I sat in the first row after the special seating rows (fourth in total). After worship, Claudio came up and said that God spoke to him this morning to play a clip from Argentina tonight. He told us to receive the anointing from the Lord as we watch the clip. In the clip he was in a big meeting, and praying for the anointing and fire to come. While watching it, he also prayed the same prayers, and we all participated, raising our hands to the Lord and receiving from Him. As he was praying for more of the Lord, something broke in me and I just started weeping and weeping because I was so hungry for God. I was so desperate for Him, and for the anointing, and the Lord was touching me powerfully. This was going on for a while, and then Che Ahn took the mic and called all the HIM pastors forward. Man, was I quick!!! I was so desperate, I didn't care about anything but him. Under the anointing, I barely made it up on the stage where all the pastors lined up. I was still weeping out of desperation. As he lay hands on us, the Lord touched us all powerfully, and I lay there, my hands in the air, just weeping and weeping. I knew this was the turnaround he'd been talking about, the new thing. I knew I had received this anointing for revival, and that I would never be the same again, that the ministry would never be the same again, and that I'll see revival like never before when I go back. I kept weeping and weeping out of desperation for Him, and also repenting at one point for having lost my first love. I had to think back to 12 years ago, my first charismatic conference ever, with Claudio Freidzon, that changed my life. I had to think back at the hunger I had for the Lord, and broke because I had settled for less.

Finally they forced us up and off the stage, which was hard. God wasn't done with me. So they let me sit down in the first chair there (they wouldn't let me stay on the floor where I wanted to be), and the Lord continued ministering to me. Claudio continued on with the meeting, and the Lord kept filling me. Finally Claudio did preach for a short while, and I stopped weeping. He spoke about the coming revival, and the new day, and I knew something very significant had happened to me. I was thinking, we'll see the Mali revival. But then I heard the Lord say that it'll be called the "desert revival".

I saw myself going back and doing a meeting right away, passing this on to the team and the children, and as they get the fire, they'll be changed forever. I was also weeping for them and weeping for Mali. God also spoke to me on Thursday about starting a pastors' meeting in Bamako - something the YWAM leaders finally gave up after years of trying - why should I be able to do it. But tonight I saw myself doing this, and the first pastor to join me, and as the fire touches them.... Let it be!

This Week

This will be a short night again. I leave the house at 7 am tomorrow morning, to catch my plane to Atlanta at 10 am. I arrive there at 5:30 pm, and then have another 2 hour drive to Augusta, GA. I'm gonna be with our architect until Friday, who's set up all kinds of meetings this week. Please pray for favor and a release of finances so that construction can continue.

back to top

Send me your comment on this blog

July 2007
June 2007
May 2007
Apr 2007
Mar 2007
Feb 2007
Jan 2007
2006
2005

back to top

archive home

Saturday, August 18, 2007

Yesterday I spent the break between afternoon and evening session in a little room in the church building again. However, I didn't get to take a nap, but was able to rest a little. So I was very tired (again) during the evening session, and couldn't keep my eyes open. And Cindy Jacobs was the speaker, somebody I love and appreciate a lot. She started with giving prophetic words, and then there was a time for prayer for healng. After that she preached on loving God with your mind. It was great - even with listening only :-)

Back In Mali

This morning I had a chance to talk to Paul; the first time in several days. He told me that Firmin was doing worse again two nights ago, having breathing prolems. He went to the clinic the following day where we was treated. I don't know how though. Hama was also very sick with malaria, and again, I was concerned with what those Malian doctors are doing. At first they gave him injections agains the malaria, and then they said they shouldn't do it because of his handicap.... Paul said he was okay now.

Enoch came on Thursday, and together they went to see Souleymane's grand-mother. She gave her okay for him to stay with us. Friday morning Enoch left with all the kids to take them to the village with him for two weeks. This morning Paul had to do the street kid program all by himself, so he was actually glad to be the only one in the house for the rest of the day. I was glad too that he'd get some rest. Even though I was in a rush, I took some some time to pray for him, and it made all the difference for him. Praise God!

God's Bank

Last night Cindy Jacobs took the offering, and I was stirred to sow my seeds into it. All I had was $20, and I put it all in. This morning, even before the first session, a lady came up to me. She knew me from standing in line with her in the past, but I could barely remember her. She gave me $40. Hallelujah! What other bank has 100% interest in 12 hours!

Transformation Conference

They let the HIM pastors in early, and so I was the first person in the sanctuary this morning. To my surprise, the first speaker was already there setting up. Dennis Balcombe has been in China for 40 years, planting churches all over, and he also has three Chinese churches in Paris. I listened up yesterday when he shared that they send these young French-speaking Chinese Christians to French-speaking Africa. So I took advantage of the situation this morning, and went up to him, introducing me and asking him to send me some of those on-fire Christians. He gave me his card and said to contact him. Praise God!

After the morning session I had a lunch appointment with a wonderul lady who I met in line here a few years ago, and who's been on my mailing list. We got some food at the grocery store, and sat on a bench talking. We had a great time together!

During the second morning session I couldn't keep my eyes open, and so I decided to skip the afternoon session. I went to the room where I've been spending the evening breaks, and lay down on the floor. I was so exhausted, even all the kids around me didn't bother me really, though I didn't really fall asleep because of it. After all, this is the room where the small kids are during the sessions. Oh well. After an hour I got up and started typing, and some of the kids came over and I showed them pictures and videos of Mali.

Cindy Jacobs was on for the evening again. But God came during worship in a powerful way, and we ended up worshipping nearly 2 hours. It was awesome. There was so much freedom and joy, with many people dancing on the platform and just singing spontaneous songs. God was doing all kinds of things, and Cindy then gave a few prophetic words. There was no time for preaching, as we were already over time. But they always finish their conference with a fire tunnel (since tomorrow it's the Sunday services). They called the ministry team and HIM pastors on to the platform, and I went. I love fire tunnels! I was standing in the beginning of the tunnel, praying for people as they went through. It was wonderful to see all these people touched by the power of God, and I was thankful to serve, all the while getting more and more hungry for God myself. I had the ministry team leader right next to me, and after some time he asked whether I wanted to go through. Don't ask me twice! So I did, and the power of God hit me. A few pray-ers knew me and their right-on prayers hit me even more. When I was through, I went back to my spot to continue praying for people. It was wonderful, but after some time I got so hungry for the Lord again, even more so than before. I wondered if I could go through a second time. Finally I got so desperate for the Lord, I just asked the guy next to me, and he said yes, I could go again. This time the power of God hit me even more, as I was receiving all I could. I just wanted to crumble to the floor at the end of the tunnel and cry out to God, enjoy His presence, but they wouldn't let me. So I went down, found my new friend who's been taking me back and forth, and went home. The meeting had lasted 4 and a half hours.

back to top

Send me your comment on this blog

July 2007
June 2007
May 2007
Apr 2007
Mar 2007
Feb 2007
Jan 2007
2006
2005

back to top

archive home

Friday, August 17, 2007

Last night's session went very long, but was very powerful and significant. Joy Dawson spoke a message she felt was very profound like she's only felt it one other time in over 50 years of ministry. She's actually 81 years old and hardly preaches any more these past 14 years because of a painful back injury. She preached a powerful message on barriers to revival, and people and leaders came up to repent in the end, and commit themselves to renewed prayer for revival. In fact, several speakers have spoken out boldly that it all depends on the leaders, and calling them back to the essentials.

In the morning they have a break between the two speakers, and suddenly an HIM leader came up to me. She told me the Lord had told her to give me her necklace. She took it off and put it around my neck. I was moved; it was so precious to me. My Bridegroom King putting jewelry on me, but it was also a sign to me of Him preparing me for marriage, like He has been doing, and with all the prophetic words that it's very close.

Five minutes later, the lady next to me saw that I was a HIM pastor and asked me where I was. I told her and gave her my info paper. She took out her checkbook, wrote a check, and gave it to me. I was blown away. Within a few minutes, the Lord blessed me profoundly and twice. This was the first time I'd received money in weeks, and just when I needed it.

Today they had the pastors' luncheon for all the HIM pastors. After eating and fellowshipping, the director took the mic and said a few words. Then he asked specific ones to share a little what God is doing in their ministry. I was listening, when the new HIM secretary came up to me and said, "you should share too". I told her it wasn't my call. So she went up to one of the HIM leaders who went up to the director - and so I ended up sharing! I believe the Lord inspired me to say just the right words. I was thankful for this opportunity. Unfortunately Che Ahn, his wife or other key leaders weren't there to hear. The director mentioned that I love the meetings just for HIM pastors and the time of prayer, and so he had me and a few other people stand up and the others pray for us. What a blessing!

back to top

Send me your comment on this blog

July 2007
June 2007
May 2007
Apr 2007
Mar 2007
Feb 2007
Jan 2007
2006
2005

back to top

archive home

Thursday, August 16, 2007

I got up this morning feeling very refreshed and ready for a great day. I got a good seat in the sanctuary, and made a few phone calls. Worship was wonderful, and then the first speaker was on, Michael Fletcher, and after him Jane Hansen, founder of Aglow International. They had some good things to say.

After the meeting, I was invited to lunch by the HIM director, together with another missionary, and we had a good time of fellowship.

In the afternoon, George Otis Jr. was the speaker. He is the producer of the TRANSFORMATION videos. He had some great things to say, and then he showed us his latest production; a powerful 30 minute video. He prepared us for it in advance, but it still got me. The first few times I saw the first TRANSFORMATION video, I would weep every time. I was not gonna do that with this video, in the sanctuary, but I had a very hard time holding back the tears, and quite a few escaped anyway. It touched and moved me deeply. This video won't be for sale, but you can ask for it for a donation. It's called "Approaching Fire" or simply the Fire Quest video.

I was so moved, I just wanted to go throw myself before the Lord. I simply went back to that same little room where I had rested yesterday and decided to spend the 2 hours until the evening session there. I lay down before the Lord and spent some time weeping for Mali, and praying, interceding, and asking for strategies, and for the impossible. God was answering my prayer, and of course, I wondered how I could finance the things God was showing me, but then, that's His problem and He'll provide. In fact, I feel like walking on a new level of trust right now. My kids in Mali don't have enough money, and I currently have only a few dollars left I have access to, and no money is coming in, and construction stopped last week, and yet, I have total peace and I know He's taking care of everything. In fact, it's exciting to me to live each day trusting God for my daily bread also. Today, for example, I was invited for lunch, and given the leftovers, so I can have them for dinner. Yeah, God! When the flight was cancelled, the airline gave me vouchers for food worth $16 - this morning I had the last of that. Yesterday somebody gave me an energy bar - probably tomorrow's breakfast. Isn't He faithful?

I'm TOTALLY blown away, and amazed, and in awe, at all God has done already in less than a week! Usually it takes weeks of being in the US.... I have to think of what was prophesied over me Sunday, that what has taken 6 months in the past will only take 3 days.... I'm excited, and feel very much on the brink of something great. All God has already shown me, the strategies He's given, the changes to make - much of that will only be possible once we've moved, and much only once all is built. In the pastor's meeting, it was prophesied that October would be a very significant month. That's when we're moving!

back to top

Send me your comment on this blog

July 2007
June 2007
May 2007
Apr 2007
Mar 2007
Feb 2007
Jan 2007
2006
2005

back to top

archive home

Wednesday, August 15, 2007

After 4 hours of sleep, the hotel gave me a wake-up call at 4:30 am. 15 minutes later I was at the front desk waiting for the shuttle to the airport. Time was short, but I just about made it to my plane in time, which took off at 6 am. I flew the opposite direction first, to Portland, Oregon, and then on to Los Angeles where I arrived just before noon. I changed at the airport, and then made a new friend in the girl who picked me up from the airport and drove me straight to the church, where the first meeting started only a few minutes later.

In a sense, I'm "home" here; home because I'm part of the Harvest International Ministries network whose conference this is. Leader is Che Ahn, pastor of Harvest Rock Church where the conference is taking place. They had one meeting for all HIM pastors in the afternoon, where somebody talked about church growth. Unfortunately they had little time, and so they didn't pray for their pastors (that's a first).

After the meeting, I felt like Che (who I've never really talked to) should know what God is doing in Mali, and so I simply walked up to him, and he even listened (shows you the new favor God's given me). So I quickly told him about the villages, and he was excited. He said he might have me share for 2 minutes at one point during the conference. Praise God!

I also had a good time meeting old acquaintances again, speaking a few words with each.

Having hardly slept, I had an annoying headache, and a desperate need to rest. The new HIM secretary was so helpful, and I was able to lie down on the floor of a little room instead of vacating the building until the evening session. However, I was too tired to sleep at that point, but did get some rest.

I didn't even know the topic of the conference, but so far it's been awesome, a great topic.

This first night, Lou Engle was on, and I knew it would be about THE CALL CALIFORNIA and the US. And that was even good timing because I was so tired. I was unable to keep my eyes open during the preaching, and barely made it home and to bed. The same kind lady from the church drove me and my bags to the campus where I was staying in my friend's apartment. My friend is out of town, but a friend of hers is staying in her apartment. She put up an airmattress in the kitchen/living room and I soon fell into bed. Unfortunately the mattress has a hole somewhere, and so I had to get up twice during the night to pump it up again.

back to top

Send me your comment on this blog

July 2007
June 2007
May 2007
Apr 2007
Mar 2007
Feb 2007
Jan 2007
2006
2005

back to top

archive home

Tuesday, August 14, 2007

My friend Van, a local evangelist and old friend, invited me to a weekly meeting for pastors at Bethel church (Bill Johnson's), where pastors and ministry leaders from all over come. There were about 10, plus my friend Holly. It was very casual, and one after the other just started sharing what God is doing. Pretty soon they were talking about Africa, and so I just naturally took my turn and told them what God is doing in Mali. They were all very encouraged.

After everyone had shared, an hour in total, Bill Johnson told us visitors to come in the middle and they'd pray for us. As soon as they laid hands on me, the power of God started flowing through me. Some of them had strong prophetic giftings, and so I received a lot of input, great words of encouragement. Holly and I did our best after the meeting to write everything down they said to us. Bill Johnson also laid his hands on my head and simply prayed for a mantle of miracles, for increase of the miraculous anointing.

It was an awesome, powerful meeting! Afterwards I had to say good-bye to Van, and Holly and I went out to eat. After lunch, I finished packing and she drove me to the airport.

What a wonderful time I've had in Redding! I've said it before - I could already go back to Mali! Thank you, Holly, thank you, Van, thank You, Lord!

At 5:30 pm I left Redding to go to Los Angeles. However, the plane was supposed to land once in Alcata on the way. When we got there, there was intense fog and we had to circle an wait. We kept circling and circling and waiting. After an hour he said it had lifted a little bit and he'd try to land. We entered the fog, that was already very low, and approached the ground. It was very scary, knowing the ground was so close and still we didn't see a thing. Finally, he pulled up the plane - we simply couldn't land - and returned to Redding. Two and a half hours after I left Redding I was back there, waiting to find out how to get Los Angeles.

All planes to LA were full the next day, and so I had to take a plane from Sacramento.

My good friends in Redding made a big sacrifice and drove me to Sacramento that very night, from 10 pm till midnight. The airline paid for a hotel room, because the plane also had mechanical problems, so I checked in at midnight and slept until 4 am. I took the shuttle to the airport, where my plane to Portland, Oregon, left at 6 am. But now, this is already Wednesday.... :-)

back to top

Send me your comment on this blog

July 2007
June 2007
May 2007
Apr 2007
Mar 2007
Feb 2007
Jan 2007
2006
2005

back to top

archive home

Monday, August 13, 2007

No alarm clock this morning, praise God! We started the day easy, unloading some stuff, checking emails, and then my friend Van called wanting us to pray for him, so he came over.

We ended up praying for 4 hours, ministering to each other, praying and prophesying over each other. We had a great time. I received refreshing and encouragement. I also enjoyed praying for my friend Van who has such a father's anointing. It was great!

It was 3 pm by the time we finished. We then drove to Van's office to look at it, and then ran some errands. Holly wanted to show me one of the few local sights, and so we drove to this bridge that is half-transparent and has a sun-dial on the other end. You can see Holly's two sons in the picture.

From there we went to a restaurant, where Holly's husband joined us, and we had a great evening of fellowship together.

I've greatly enjoyed my time in Redding; tomorrow afternoon it's time to move on.

back to top

Send me your comment on this blog

July 2007
June 2007
May 2007
Apr 2007
Mar 2007
Feb 2007
Jan 2007
2006
2005

back to top

archive home

Sunday, August 12, 2007

I had a hard time getting up in the morning, but I was looking forward to going to Bill Johnson's church. We went to the second service, and came just in time, into a packed sanctuary, but the Lord had reserved some great seats in the third row for us. Coming from Mali, the first time in a worship service is always glorious and heavenly - just worshipping him and enjoying His presence, without having to do anything! Not long into the worship, the Lord took me to Mali where I spent the rest of the worship time, looking at the future, at what is ahead in Mali. It was very encouraging, and I had a hard time coming back to the US. I jotted down a few things the Lord had shown me.

The sermon was awesome, as expected by Bill Johnson, and as a first time visitor, I was given a CD for free. I also got his latest books in their bookstore. I'm looking forward to reading them.

There was a time of communion and ministry during the service, and I was prayed for. He didn't say anything out loud (the music was loud too), but God's presence was so wonderful; He was filling me so gently and beautifully, I could have stayed forever.

After the service, we went up to the missions pastor, and I introduced myself, gave him my flyers, and told him it would be great if they could send some of their SUPERNATURAL SCHOOL OF MINISTRY students to Mali, or do a missions trip to Mali. He said they'd consider it. As he turned away, Holly asked him to pray for me, and I was greatly blessed again. He also had some prophetic impressions that were very encouraging.

I was very blessed as we walked out of the church and to the car. I called up an old friend of mine who's lived in Redding for a few years now, and we decided to go out to lunch together. So the three of us had a wonderful time of fellowship together. I caught up on what Van has been doing these past few years, and Holly got to learn more about "spiritual Redding" (she moved up here just over 3 months ago). It was late as we went our different ways, knowing we'd see each other at the evening service.

I was so tired - still getting over jetlag - but couldn't fall asleep to take my planned nap. Shortly afterwards we already left to go to the service, and I struggled all night with the tiredness - in the car, in worship and during the sermon. At the end of the service, they did a fire tunnel - a tunnel of people who pray for you as you walk through, which is always very powerful. We waited for a while to let the fire "heat up", and then we walked through. I didn't expect God to hit me so powerfully, but He did, and my heart just broke because of His goodness and kindness to me. I then found my old friend Van, who prayed for me, and I was blessed more.

It's been such a wonderful day! I so love His presence and glory, and I've missed this intensity of His presence big time. I wished I could live in it at all times, and I'm so thankful that I get to be here to meet with Him. Americans, if only you knew what you have in your country, how blessed you are!

back to top

Send me your comment on this blog

July 2007
June 2007
May 2007
Apr 2007
Mar 2007
Feb 2007
Jan 2007
2006
2005

back to top

archive home

Saturday, August 11, 2007

After a good first night in the US, and a nice breakfast, we left home early to go to Bethel Church (Bill Johnson) which is Holly's new church. They have healing rooms on Saturday morning, where they pray for people for anything they want, and Holly wanted to go herself. I was looking forward to seeing that church I've so much heard of for years now.

After having signed up for the Healing Rooms (long line), we walked around the property for a while, Holly giving me the full tour. It was beautiful, and quite a culture shock coming from Mali. We then sat down in the waiting room, where worship music was playing, while we were waiting to go receive prayer.

As I was sitting there praying, God's presence was so sweet in the room, and I just started to melt inside with love and longing for Him. I felt like gliding to the floor and weeping in His presence. It was so beautiful! How I've missed this tangible presence! Then I watched a Dad playing with his little girl, who was maybe 5 years old. Just watching them so blessed me. It was such a picture of our heavenly Father playing with us - me - his little girl. It was beautiful.

When I then finally was called in, the man prayed a 2-min prayer for me, which didn't make a difference at all. In fact, I didn't feel God's presence at all. Looks like God meant to meet me while waiting and praying silently.

After Holly was done, we went back to the little prayer chapel on site to take communion. I also spent a few more minutes in prayer, though I, could have gone on forever, lying on the floor drawing close to Him.

Outside the prayer chapel, they had a pool of Bethesda, with an angel on its bottom. We prayed right there at the water, and talked for a while. The stone lion was also right there at the pool.

From church, we went to do some shopping, which was fun. You can get anything you like, if you have the money! It always amazes me coming from Mali.

One place we went to was Blockbuster, where we rented two movies we later watched. Holly also prepared an awesome dinner. So we had a quiet, fun, afternoon and evening with great food and good movies. Tonight I'm going to bed pretty late...

back to top

Send me your comment on this blog

July 2007
June 2007
May 2007
Apr 2007
Mar 2007
Feb 2007
Jan 2007
2006
2005

back to top

archive home

Friday, August 10, 2007

I'm sitting at the airport of San Francisco, waiting for my third and last flight on to Redding, CA, just one hour north by plane.

The trip has been long already, but I feel surprisingly fresh. When I checked in in Bamako, they upgraded me to business class, which was a wonderful surprise. I've never been upgraded between Bamako and Paris before. We left Mali at 11 pm, arriving in Paris at 6:30 am (which is 4:30 am Malian time!), and I enjoyed the comforts of business class, even getting about an hour of sleep in, sleeping nearly horizontally.

Arriving in Paris, I had a few hours before getting on to the plane to San Francisco - a 11 and a half hour flight. This time I was less lucky. It was a huge Boeing 747, but I sat in one of the three rows were the video screen didn't work. Fortunately I was able to change seats, and so I could enjoy a few movies during the long flight.

We flew over Greenland, and the view was breath-taking - the mountains, the snow, the icebergs in the water. Somebody took a picture, which inspired me to do the same, but a picture can never capture the beauty you see from high up there. I picked up my Bible and enjoyed reading His Word, being thankful for His goodness and presence.

Arriving in San Francisco, everything went smoothly with immigration, picking up the bag, and then checking in with a different airline. Now that I'm flying with an airline that is not part of Sky Team, I didn't have access to the frequent flyer lounge - and that after 17 hours of flying!!!

However, I paid to get online and used my time waiting for my third and last flight well. I'm looking forward to seeing my friend in Redding in less than 2 hours.

I flew with a tiny airplane the one hour from San Francisco to Redding - two seats on one side of the plane, and one on the other, 10 rows. The funniest thing happened - two passengers had seat numbers that didn't even exist! Row 11! But two other seats were empty, so they were able to sit there.

Arriving in Redding, I realized how little this town is - 90 000 inhabitants in fact. The airport was tiny! My friend Holly was waiting for me right there. We drove home to her new house. They only moved here about 4 months ago. Her husband and two boys were gone for the weekend. We spent the rest of the day talking, and taking a swim in their swimming pool. I went to bed just after 9 pm, being pretty tired after a long trip and with jetlag.

back to top

Send me your comment on this blog

July 2007
June 2007
May 2007
Apr 2007
Mar 2007
Feb 2007
Jan 2007
2006
2005

back to top

archive home

Thursday, August 9, 2007

The time has come to say good-bye for 5 weeks. Tonight I'm flying to Paris, where I arrive in the morning. Then I take a plane to San Francisco, and after another 3 hours I arrive in Redding, California, where my friend picks me up from the airport. This is a very long trip, arriving Friday night local time. Please pray for a safe, smooth trip - for the luggage to arrive, and for immigration not to cause problems. Pray also that I'll get over jetlag quickly and have a restful and fun weekend.

Pray also for Paul, Firmin, and the kids back home. The kids leave for the village next week Friday.

back to top

Send me your comment on this blog

July 2007
June 2007
May 2007
Apr 2007
Mar 2007
Feb 2007
Jan 2007
2006
2005

back to top

archive home

Tuesday, August 7, 2007

Now they can smile again, though Firmin is in much pain.

Today, just after noon, I suddenly heard a shattering sound. I went into the living room and saw glass lying everywhere near the door and outside. As I came closer, I also so much blood everywhere, and as I stepped outside, I was shocked at the quantity of blood. I saw Fousseni washing his face, and looked to see what was wrong. He had a cut on his forehead. I disinfected it and put a bandaid on, and then I discovered that all the blood came from Firmin. He was holding his arm, and the blood was dripping everywhere. I told him to lie down and gave him a towel to wrap around his arm. I got my car keys, and off we went to our doctor's clinic - not the one where the girls were, even though Alain's clinic is three times further away. I knew that Alain is not in Bamako, but was hoping some qualified people would be there. We finally got there, and they took care of Firmin. It took them a whole hour to clean the wounds, make sure no glass is inside, and sow him back together. A vein was cut open, and I could see blood running out as if it was water from a faucet. I quickly went into the waiting room to lie down, because I can't see blood and felt like fainting.

They refused to give Firmin local anaesthesia, and so he was in great pain as they sowed the big wound back together. On the way home, we passed by the icecream machine, and they were happy for some icecream. Soon, blood was soaking through Firmin's bandage, and it's increasing. He's now resting. He has a hard time moving his arm, and it's very painful.

In the picture, you see the bloody towel, and Firmin has his good arm out the door where the glass used to be.

By the way, I didn't tell you how it happened. They were playing around; Fousseni was inside holding the door shut, while Firmin was outside pushing the door open to go inside.

back to top

Send me your comment on this blog

July 2007
June 2007
May 2007
Apr 2007
Mar 2007
Feb 2007
Jan 2007
2006
2005

back to top

archive home

Sunday, August 5, 2007

The last few days have been so busy, I had not done any work or even thought about what to preach. I love my Sundays, because I get to spend all day with the Lord, and this morning I was wondering what I'd preach in the afternoon, but He showed me.

As always, I handed it all over to him, and He did not disappoint me. I was amazed at the words that came out of my mouth, with anointing and authority, just what they/we needed to hear. I preached on Nehemia 4, when they built the wall, armed because of the threats of the enemy.

The greatest joy today was that all the teenage boys truly praised the Lord, including singing along, and then listened carefully to the sermon. I don't remember them ever listening like that. I wonder whether the conversation with Solomani had an effect on the others too - in that case a positive effect.

Last night I was witnessing Seybou hitting Hama because he had peed in his clothes instead of telling us he needed to go to the bathroom. He was so angry, he beat his 6-year-old handicapped son. Nothing gets me more enraged than helpless kids being hurt, and so I ran out of the house to confront Seybou. Seybou had already left, leaving Hama all alone crying hard. I picked up Hama and comforted him. I took him inside the house, and then went to talk to Seybou. Seybou was angry, and so was I. I raised my voice telling him I would not tolerate children being beaten in my house. He in turn said he would not stop beating Hama. We concluded he'd have to leave then.

Tonight Seybou came up to me asking forgiveness for last night and saying he would not beat Hama again. I wanted to talk more and explain to him for the umptieth time how to discipline children, but he didn't want to. In any case, I'm glad we were able to put this incident behind us. Please pray for little Hama. He is really making much progress in terms of walking. He can now walk with the walker for several meters by himself. Before, he was unable to hold on to it because of his twisted left hand, but now he can. Praise God!

back to top

Send me your comment on this blog

July 2007
June 2007
May 2007
Apr 2007
Mar 2007
Feb 2007
Jan 2007
2006
2005

back to top

archive home

Saturday, August 4, 2007

The phone woke me up early in the morning. The Austrian doctor who had come to accompany Carina back to Austria, arrived last night and wanted to go over to the clinic. Unfortunately he only turned his watch back one hour instead of two, and so he didn't realize how early it was.

I got ready and drove to his hotel to pick him up and then drive him to the clinic. It was a nice, new hotel, very central, one I had never been inside in. Two of the kids were with me, and waiting in the car, while I went inside to find him. He checked out, and we drove to the clinic. He was a very nice guy, very laid back. He's a Greek surgeon with German nationality, but working as a freelancer for the Austrian insurance. He's also studied ethnology after his medical studies. We had a good time talking in the car, and for the rest of the day.

At the hospital, we went to Carina's room, and then all together to Dr. Guindo's office, the founder of the clinic who's studied in the West. He was very friendly, exchanged cards, and the "Austrian" doctor took a picture of him, Carina and me. We then said our good-byes, packed, and left the clinic for the last time. We drove to our house, where the weekly kids' program was in full swing. Paul was doing it. Right now we have a summer program consisting only of Christian movies. I'll start teaching again when I get back from the US.

The doctor took some pictures, and we did some talking. He was very interested in what we're doing here and asked all kinds of questions. He also wanted to see our property, and so we went there before going to the restaurant. We crossed all of town to go to the "best" restaurant; also because there is a big supermarket closeby there where I was hoping to get catfood. The one I usually go too hasn't had any for a while. We had a great time having great food and talking. Carina was also enjoying herself and the food.

From the restaurant, we went to the supermarket I had heard of but never been too. At first, I was already amazed at seeing the first parking garage I've ever seen in Mali, with an elevator going up into the store. But when I stepped into the supermarket, I was dumbfounded. I think I stayed in shock for the whole time I was there. I would have never believed possible that there was a store like that in Bamako. It was BIG, and had lots of catfood - I could actually CHOOSE! Incredible! I bought catfood for the next few months....

I dropped off the doctor and Carina near the museum and drove home. It was 5 pm when I got home, and I was totally wiped. I lay down a little bit, unable to do any work. Two hours later they came home from their trip downtown and got ready for the airport. Paul and one boy came with us, as I drove them to the airport. It was finally time to say good-bye to the last girl.

GOD'S WAYS: The doctor was so interested in our work, he wants to write an article for the insurance's magazine (ÖAMTC - equivalent of AAA) that is sent to millions of Austrians every month, telling them about Carina as well as our project, together with our bank details for donations. Awesome God! He truly turns everything around for good!

back to top

Send me your comment on this blog

July 2007
June 2007
May 2007
Apr 2007
Mar 2007
Feb 2007
Jan 2007
2006
2005

back to top

archive home

Friday, August 3, 2007

We picked up Carina in the morning, so she could spend the day with us, and this time she got back at 11 pm instead of midnight. ;-)

She enjoyed her time with the kids, and in the afternoon we went to the property to look at the construction progress. It was my first time there since May, and Carina's very first time. I was excited to see the progress - the walls going up, the property nearly surrounded by walls now. On the left you can see the foundation of the wall on the diagonal left side of the property, and the channel for the rain water right outside of it.

This picture shows you the whole property from the hill to the north of the property. You see the wall on the straight 90 m side on the right (left in picture), which is done. You can see the rainwater channel on the right side of the picture, and the red water tower.

These pictures show Kossi, our construction manager, and his team of workers, in front of the water tower.

The 90 meter wall on the right side of the property, from both sides.

Construction is coming to a standstill this week if no money comes in in the next few days. We still need $16,000 (11.600€) to finish the wall.

Current events kept me from having our conversation with Solomani before this morning, but now it was time. I grabbed Paul and together we sat down with Solomani. It was not easy telling him. I told him that we had made the decision that he had to leave us. I explained everything to him and wanted to hear what he had to say. He didn't deny not knowing the Lord personally, but said he wanted to stay and would give his life to the Lord so he could stay. Unfortunately we've heard this before, but it's not happening. After some talking - with little on his part - I prayed and sent him out to exchange with Paul. I wanted to give Solomani another chance, and we did. When I get back from the US, I will hear from Paul whether anything has changed.

In the evening I hopped into the car and drove over to the house of missionary friends I hadn't seen in a while. I was invited for dinner and a movie. That night I found out that there is a restaurant delivering pizzas - incredible! It took two hours, though. They set up the projector, and we started the Hollywood movie in the meantime. It was a great, relaxing time, even though Carina waited at home for her ride back to the clinic. When I rushed home, being very tired, she was still having fun with Paul and Firmin, not being in any rush to get to the clinic. :-)

back to top

Send me your comment on this blog

July 2007
June 2007
May 2007
Apr 2007
Mar 2007
Feb 2007
Jan 2007
2006
2005

back to top

archive home

Thursday, August 2, 2007

Today I spent a few hours trying to help July get a flight home, but in the end her insurance did take care of it after all. She's leaving tonight.

As for Carina, her insurance today told her she's leaving on Saturday. She's actually regained her health and could leave the clinic, but to be sure her insurance company won't cause her problems later, she's staying there until she leaves. However, this afternoon she came over to our house a couple of hours. She picked up her Malian clothes - as you can see on the picture. Then she spent some time with neighbors and children. After our family meeting with the kids, we left Seybou as "baby-sitter" and went to the restaurant next to the clinic.

It was later than planned, but since we had already told Abdias he could come along, we let him come anyway. Paul and Firmin came as well. We all had chicken with potatoes - except for Carina - and we loved it! As you can tell from the pictures. Carina was only back at the clinic at midnight.

back to top

Send me your comment on this blog

July 2007
June 2007
May 2007
Apr 2007
Mar 2007
Feb 2007
Jan 2007
2006
2005

back to top

archive home

Wednesday, August 1, 2007

Having postponed our trip to Dio again and again, both our pastor Enoch and the German NGO were getting impatient. Enoch wanted to get his money and food for August, and the NGO needed pictures and information. So we decided to go take care of these things, even with two girls still at the clinic who could call me any time to go pick them up or something else.

I only took Paul with me, and we got there at noon. In the meantime they have paved most of the road between the last town and Dio - which was great, especially since it was raining, and pools of water were to the left and right of the road.

Enoch met us at the entrance of the village, and we went to the local merchant to buy 10 sacks of rice. I've talked about Alou before. Every time I talk with him, I see his hunger to know more about God, and he questions me about all kinds of things. Then God healed his wife, and now he told me that God healed him when Enoch prayed for him not long ago. He always tells me I need to come more, stay longer, and he now said that I was his pastor. He also told us that he's gonna be a candidate at the local elections of a mayor, and asked our help. He said he would help us once he is a mayor, and that he believes our prayers will make a difference. Alou is a good man, one who will come to know the Lord, and I could see him well as the mayor, and a good one at that.

Enoch then showed us the first of three church signs he has put up now (picture), and then we had lunch.

While we were eating the women and children were already gathering - the original four families on our list who will be sponsored, plus a fifth one. We interviewed each family, and wrote down ALL the names of their children - more than we had been aware of. If we can find sponsors, we will pay tuition for all these children next year, so they can go to school, plus they will get lunch every day.

Thanks to a donation from Germany, we were also able to give a bag of rice to each family.

We then took a picture of the house Enoch was able to finish thanks to a donation. He and his wife moved in there, and the kids stay in the old house. The German NGO CCARA also financed a mattress for each child so they don't have to sleep on sacks filled with something anymore.

Right now only their own two children live with them. There are two orphan boys they are supposed to take in, but they have left town temporarily.

Car Trouble

It was 4:30 pm, and were done with everything. It had been raining for most of the time, and we really needed to go home, to see if the girls were ready to leave the clinic. But first we drove to one of the family's houses, to take a picture of the complete family (though they weren't complete after all). When we got back into the car to leave and return to Bamako, the car wouldn't start. I could hardly believe it! Now it was raining so hard, and the car didn't make any sounds at all as I turned the key. It looked like the battery was empty, so someone brought one, connected it, but it didn't make a difference. A little kid went to buy credit for my cell-phone, in the pouring rain, and I called Emma, who knows the car better than anyone. He was shocked. Then Enoch was able to get a mechanic. They ended up pushing the car until if finally started. Everyone was totally soaked by then - it was raining harder than it had all day, and the "road" was mostly under water as well.

One hour had passed when we finally started our trip home. And then it seemed we had every slow-going truck there is just in front of us. Once we got to Bamako, we couldn't overtake them anymore, so we slowly followed the huge truck with yellow lights. Normally that's not a big deal, but the problem was that I desperately needed to go to the bathroom. Would I make it all the way home? As we crept along, I realized I wouldn't. What to do? I got more and more desperate, as the pain increased. Finally we stopped at a gas station and asked, whether I could use their bathroom. They said yes. I got out of the car and could barely walk, but was soon greatly relieved.

Back Home

To everyone's disappointment, the girls were still not to be picked up but stayed in the clinic. Emma then came over to our house and looked at the car, that would not start again as before. It's a diesel car, and the fuse was grilled, because I had forgotten that you have to wait a little before starting a diesel car. I was relieved that it was nothing worse than that.

back to top