Saturday, April 17, 2010

God Only Wise

Earlier this week I returned to Nairobi after attending the WGM Kenya Field Retreat. I had a great time and enjoyed reconnecting with colleagues, worshipping together, and the inspirational teaching/preaching of Stan and Katy Key. We enjoyed learning about the good Kings of the Old Testament. The song that is going through my head on this Saturday afternoon is, "Immortal, Invisible, God Only Wise." God's wisdom is seen then and continues today. Here's a glimpse of my world in recent days.


It appears that the first multi-party elections in Sudan in over 24 years ended Thursday (after a 2 day extension to ensure everyone had opportunity to vote) on a peaceful note. Various news sources reported minor problems but there was no major violence. Election observers are yet to weigh in on whether the elections were free and fair. Election results will be announced this Tuesday.
Thank you for your prayers for the country of Sudan during the past few weeks. God has been present. The people of Sudan are not out of the woods yet so please continue praying for acceptance of the results and for the leadership transitions that will be made. Continue praying that God's chosen men and women will be placed into positions of leadership.

As long as the security situation is stable Joseah will soon return to Akot.
Joseah looking at devastation in Akot in January

One main objective will be to follow-up from the Bible Storying Seminar we held last fall. We want to encourage and reinforce what was taught so the Bible can be shared in relevant ways.
Small group during seminar

Joseah will be assisted by our friend Pastor Simon who has worked in Sudan for many years, including with me at Lui Hospital as chaplain and evangelist. We're thankful for his assistance in ministry.

Pastor Simon and Joy at Lui Hospital several years ago

The reason Joseah will be heading back to Akot alone is that Reuben's contract ends this month. Due to family needs he will not continue with Mango Ministries in a full time capacity. We look forward to having him as a consultant and champion our ministry from Tenwek where he will jump back into work.
Reuben assisting a cataract patient at Akot Medical Mission

Join us in praying for Reuben's replacement. Although extremely saddened to lose Reuben from the team we are excited about God's plans as we continue moving forward each day.

I leave Monday to visit Len and Cindy Ramsey, former colleagues from Tenwek Hospital, who are now working on Lake Tanganyika in Tanzania. We will be brain storming about community health ~ one of my favorite things to do! Pray that I will be an encouragement to them as they have been facing many spiritual battles in recent weeks.

Thank you for praying with us. My prayer for Sudan is this: "Nevertheless, I will bring health and healing to it; I will heal my people and will let them enjoy abundant peace and security." Jeremiah 33:6

Almighty, victorious, thy great name we praise ~

joy