May 31, 2012

Report from IMB missionary in East Africa who hosted students with the FUSION program: “Facial and head hair, weight, likes and dislikes changed over these short months. They were adventurous and tried many things, caught (and sometimes ate) many different types of animals, learned to cook, walked hundreds of miles, sat for hours with nationals, hosted a goat roast for about 50 people, learned how to find true strength in the Lord, and grew tremendously – all while they were serving as ambassadors of our Father’s Good News in East Africa!"  For more on FUSION, go to: http://www.gofusion.ws/About-Fusion 

May 30, 2012

Excitement – A missionary family’s reaction after being on leave and away from their East African home.  First message:  “Preparing today to travel to OUR village... leaving early, early tomorrow.  Can’t take the short-cut thanks to heavy rains… must go the long two-full-days way!  PRAY FOR US!" Second message:  “Successful trip home!  Our dog was sooooo excited to see our kids.  Thanks to an East African friend, our house was clean.  My new tree which was one foot tall is now double my height! BUT we haven’t yet spotted a leopard!  WE ARE SOOOO ready to get to work!”
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YES, some missionaries are blessed to see leopards as they travel to their East African homes, but usually leopards ARE hard to spot and even harder to capture in a photo – thus today’s illustration!

May 29, 2012

Spotted on FB yesterday from a woman who desires to serve among Unreached Peoples in East Africa:  “I know this is informal, but it is a fast way to get the request out: Our language tutor is very sick and unable to teach us until he gets better. We are doing what we can until then so we don’t fall further behind on language, but please pray for his full and quick recovery.”  Photo was taken at a Bible study which this woman has the "privilege" of meeting, where “they listen with great emotion.”

May 28, 2012

Spotting this hand-made poster (on an empty animal food bag) in a rural East African Baptist church school, the missionary was impressed with the artistry.  Then it hit:  This is why sharing our Saviour’s parables communicates so well in rural East Africa and other places where people have yet to hear His Good news.  People understand His words and His lessons because digging in fields, fetching water, cooking over an open fire, and looking after cattle, sheep, goats, and camels is a part of their daily lives!  Praise God today this His Word “is living and active” (Hebrews 4:12).

May 27, 2012

Shared last Sunday by a missionary to Tanzania: “Snake in my house on Wed; skunk in the house last night, thankfully it left without spraying; this morning no water…. so no shower before Church. Joys of living in…” Update the next day: “Water line fixed. Skunk gone...don't know where the snake is, has not shown up again.” NOW for a bit of humour – The completion of the “Joys of living…” sentence. This FORMER missionary to Tanzania is now “…living in rural USA!” But, she is likely PRAISING God for her experiences in Tanzania which prepared her for these problems!
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No, it is not likely that a giraffe will show up at this former TZ missionary's American home, but giraffe have been spotted outside homes in East Africa and one famous guest house is known for inquisitive giraffe sticking their heads in the bedroom windows of guests!  After reading this added comment, the woman shared:  "I do have carved giraffes and pictures of giraffes all over my American house."

May 26, 2012

Update of May 2nd Nudge – Continue praying for the volunteer teams from Iowa and Florida who are preparing for the third Student Leadership Camp in north-western Uganda in August. They are learning five lessons to teach the Ugandan students (ages 14-22) about the Gospel, Baptism, Assurance, Time in the Word and Prayer, and Being the Church. This preparation is critical to the discipling that will happen during the camp. Pray for the missionary couple in Arua and all the relational connections that need to be made with students coming to the camp.
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PHOTO:  Not one of this year’s camp participants, but a ‘get-your-attention’ photo of a cute Ugandan baby from the area where the camp will be held!

May 25, 2021

Too young to read, the little girl was enjoying looking through her Mom's Kiswahili Bible during a worship service.  Praise God for East African parents who are Believers – Believers who are teaching their children that God's thoughts, God's Words are precious (Psalm 139:17).  Thank God that this child is already learning to "say to the LORD, 'You are my God'" (Psalm 140:6). Pray that she will grow into a young woman who can confidently ask, “Search me, God, and know my heart, test me… and lead me in the way everlasting” (Psalm 139:24).

May 24, 2012

Recent Prayer Requests from Tanzania Maasai Team: “Pray that the rain would hold off long enough for Dan and the volunteers to travel out and back over the next week... Called from the village and said to pray for sunny skies by day and starry nights so that they can travel out… Thank you for praying. They just called and they are back in from the bush. No rain and no problem getting in and out. They were the first white people that had ever been where they went and that they helped start the first church in that area.”
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Photo is of the volunteers enjoying chai (milky tea) with their new Maasai friends. For more from the Tanzania Maasai Team go to: http://www.tzmaasaiconnection.blogspot.com/ or follow on Facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/groups/116586508383372/

May 23, 2012

Like students of all ages, students at East African Baptist seminaries are ready for their mid-day break!  These students were learning lots in their Church Planting Methodology classes, but this day’s discussion ran late, taking almost half of their mid-day break.  What excited them?  A guest speaker – An East African church planter sharing his personal joys and struggles in planting churches in Rwanda, Burundi, Uganda, South Sudan, Kenya and Tanzania – One of their own planting churches in their part of the world!  Praise God for East Africans committed to making disciples in established churches AND in areas where disciples begin new churches!

May 22, 2012

As the missionary passed, the little Ugandan girl said, "A snap, please?" Today's Prayer Nudge is not a nudge to prayer or a bit of info to help you understand the real lives, experiences, needs, etc. of missionaries in East Africa - but simply a big THANK YOU for taking time to view these Prayer Nudges and a PRAISE that you want to know more of what God is up to East Africa and how you can join in His work through your prayers, financial support and by coming as our long or short term co-workers!

May 21, 2012

Claim Hebrews 12:1-3 today for East African Believers:  Pray that they will keep their focus on serving their Father and “throw off everything that hinders and … entangles” including disappointments, discouragements, worries, concerns, fears, medical problems, personal insecurities, as well as insecurities caused by others, scary roads and even scarier fellow drivers, iffy electricity and/or water, and anything else the devil throws their way “and… run with perseverance the race marked out for THEM.  Let THEM fix THEIR eyes on Jesus, the author, perfecter of our faith… so that THEY will not grow weary and lose heart.”

May 20, 2012

‘Shopping’ episode of “THE REAL MISSIONARIES OF EAST AFRICA” – Opening:  A missionary finds American sweet potatoes at the grocers… cell-phones co-workers with the news!  2nd scene:  Reading the morning news, another missionary learns gas rises tomorrow from $5.49 to $5.60 per gallon (shillings to dollar/ litre to gallon adjusted)… heads out to buy petrol.  3rd scene:  A man shops for a special gift for his wife… an imported box of ‘Triscuits’ ($7+) or an American magazine ($14)? Closing scene:  Leaving with her sweet potatoes, the missionary greets friends racing into the store to buy the remaining sweet potatoes.  Show ends with the woman happily perusing her ‘gift’ – a new ‘Good Housekeeping’ magazine – as sweet potatoes bake!

May 19, 2012

Did this little East African girl’s “cheerful look bring joy to Your heart” (Proverbs 15:30)?  There are days when missionaries truly want to claim our Father’s joy, but their hearts are heavy as people refuse to believe our Father’s Good News or when those they have invested much time and work choose not to obey and serve our Father.  Claim Romans 15:13 today for these servants:  “May the God of hope fill THEM with all joy and peace as THEY trust in him, so that THEY may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.”

Friday, May 18, 2012

Lots of nudges to prayer in an East African Baptist woman’s response to this photo:  "My Momma's grocery stall has been in the years more or the same like this one, the charcoal closer and on the ground!  Over the years as she ages, its been growing smaller and smaller but closer to the home and now right behind her house! An incredible way in which this pastor's wife supported her husband in ministry across the valleys and hills! This reminds me so much of my Mum, whom I love  and treasure!"

May 17, 2012

MOUSEBIRDS, found throughout Sub-Saharan Africa, are the only bird order found within only one continent. Lacking colourful plumage, they stand out in the crowd thanks to their long tails and their lively antics including acrobatics, eating upside down, and being extremely extroverted – a gossip session often includes 20 or so birds!  One does not need to be an acrobat or even know how to eat upside down to be a missionary, but a bit of being extroverted is required – which some missionaries find difficult.  Pray for strength, courage and ‘open doors’ for these servants as they seek to boldly proclaim the Eternal Gospel.

May 16, 2012

A box of cookies to catch the interest of CRICKET fans!  Many people in our world have not a clue that the ‘hyphen’ between the 20’s are BAILS, nor can they define a Cricket Wicket, Crease, Leg Break, or Yorker, nor do they know that a respectable player would never use a protective glove to ‘field’ a cricket ball moving at the speed of a car on an interstate!  Pray for missionaries as they learn the ‘information’ needed in their part of the world to start a conversation which open doors to sharing their most important information – their Father’s Good News!
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And, YES, these are very good cookies!   For more on CRICKET, go to http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cricket and if you really want details,  check out: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Types_of_bowlers_in_cricket

May 15, 2012

“Always focus on the eyes” – Photographic advice given a Journey(wo)man, which she expertly used while visiting among the Samburu People of Kenya.  Pray that Believers in East Africa will claim David’s advice in Psalm 141:8 and always keep their eyes fixed on our Sovereign LORD and take refuge in Him, rather than on the many AWA (Africa Wins Again) moments they encounter from break-downs in communication, complicated travel plans, to the many other frustrations and discouragements the devil throws in their paths to divert their focus, energies and joy!

May 14, 2012

Did you know that some missionaries in East Africa follow our Saviour's example in a special way? To get to their island ministries, they rely upon boats (ones very similar to those He used) for their transport! Pray for safety as they travel. Pray for wisdom as they work with people who often live in the clutches of traditional ways that lead to barriers – such as fear and mistrust or even beliefs that Christianity is the religion of outsiders, not island people. Pray for boldness and God’s guidance, as well as encouragement, strengthening and protection for islanders who are Believers.

May 13, 2012

New episode of “The REAL MISSIONARY KIDS 'IN' EAST AFRICA” featuring kids from an MK school in Germany!  1st scene:  Evening devotions focus on serving – team leaders wash the students’ feet.   Next scene:  Encouraged to serve others daily, the students plan activities at a Tanzania primary school.  One suggests washing the feet of the school’s teachers in front of the pupils.  Scene 3: Headmaster and teachers approve and worship begins.  Students tell the story of Jesus serving others by washing his disciples’ feet.  The primary kids are speechless as their white visitors ‘serve’ their teachers.  Last scene:  Visits to Maasai bomas (homes) as the story is re-told by the kids to their families.
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For more of this story, go to:  http://www.tzmaasaiconnection.blogspot.com/.

May 12, 2012

Never spotted 'Take time to smell the flowers' listed among our Saviour's commands to His followers, BUT by example He taught His disciples to withdraw from His/their work and take time for solitude, rest, reflection and prayer.  Pray for strength and encouragement for God's servants in East Africa who work diligently to proclaim His Good News.  Pray that they will remember their Saviour's example and take time for recharging, refreshment and renewing without guilt or being overwhelmed by the work yet to be done in our Father’s Harvest Field.

May 11, 2012

With her sparkly little blue plastic shoes, she walked past the tent housing a church dedication.  She knew where she wanted to go and was moving on! Pray for softened hearts and opened eyes and ears as East African Believers seek their Father's guidance and direction and then boldly and confidently "Go out to face" His work without fear or discouragement, claiming and depending upon His assurance that He is with them! (2 Chronicles 20: 17)

May 10, 2012

One missionary couple left their home in Rwanda last week with PLANS to minister on Saturday with Baptist women in Goma, DRCongo (photo) and to preach at a Sunday worship service. BUT God had additional plans for them. As they traveled, they began to spot the 6000 refugees camping around Goma and across the Rwanda border – Displaced People fleeing from current fighting between the DRC soldiers and militants deeper within their country. Pray for sensitive hearts and God’s clear guidance as Believers seek their parts in God’s plans for this area! Pray also for true physical and spiritual peace in the DRCongo.
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For current news from eastern DRC, go to: “Thousands of Congolese Enter Rwanda to Flee Fighting” –  http://www.voanews.com/english/news/africa/-Thousands-of-Congolese-Enter-Rwanda-to-Flee-Fighting-150471425.html

May 9, 2012

BORING – a word rarely used by East African drivers.  FRUSTRATING – a word used often by those trying to reach a destination in East Africa! Missionaries are often confident of  what, where, and why  God has called them to East Africa, but they face obstacles – from illnesses, to impassable roads, to an ‘expired’ box of JELLO delaying needed legal clearance of a passport needed for travel – YES, you read that correctly!  Pray for wisdom and patience as Believers seek to obey their Savior who confidently stated His destination and planned work because He knew, “That is why I have come” (Mark 1:38).

May 8, 2012

From a young couple preparing to work among Unreached Peoples:  A few months ago, we were fully independent.  Since moving to East Africa, we have become completely dependent on others – Dependent on the nationals, dependent on each other, and most of all dependent on God for each day, for each moment. We feel like children, wandering around this new world, barely knowing the culture, the language, the people, or even the 'dos' and 'don’ts'. We rely heavily on nationals who have taken us under their wing. Pray for these great Kenyans as they take care of us lost Americans.

PHOTO: One of the many already learned ‘DON’TS’ – DO NOT wear sandals while walking on anything other than the dirt road. This place is cursed with thorns!

May 7, 2012

From co-workers in East Africa: “Off today to our neighboring country.  Looking forward to an interesting journey...  Don't like our family being spread over 3 countries… parents ministering for a few days in the DRofCongo, young 3 in Rwanda, and older 3 at boarding school in Kenya – but excited about ministering with/ to local Believers!”  Unshared NUDGES:  Pray for traveling mercies, easy border crossings, etc.  Pray for good communication during separations.  Pray for encouragement and strengthening as local Believers learn more of serving as our Father’s hands, heart and voice in their country where many lack our Good News.

PHOTO:  Not a movie/photo 'prop' - but one way to travel in the DRofCongo, though likely propelled by someone with longer legs!

May 6, 2012

She stood in opening of the ‘borrowed’ class throughout Sunday School! Peering out with interest, at least one little fist always clutched the door frame.  Did she fear punishment from within for venturing further, or did she fear leaving?  Pray for East African missionary families who are in transition – Families following God to new places and new work – Kids graduating from high school and heading to the US for college. One missionary in transition is claiming this verse:  “He will keep me as the apple of His eye, and hide me in the shadow of His wings” (Psalms 17:8).

May 5, 2012

From co-workers in South Sudan:  “Several of the young men arrived at the preaching point with injuries… gashes on swollen feet… arms in makeshift slings… bandages on heads.  A few days earlier at dusk, another clan invaded, wielding clubs and spears. Why? The age old conflict of a daughter marrying outside the clan. So these young men now arrive at ‘church’ carrying clubs and spears…yet they are coming to learn more about Jesus. Pray for these young men and women who want to know more about the Bible.  Pray that Satan will not distract these seekers.  Pray for peace to reign in this war torn country.”

May 4, 2012

East African style portable/ reliable/ reasonably priced watch repair!  Pray today for missionaries facing ‘time’ frustrations!  Example: A couple is eager to return to their work in another East African country – work like Bible Storying with Believers hungry for discipleship and sharing our Father’s love and care among Unreached Peoples by digging wells.  Their problem? Needed  travel/ legal papers are stuck in a s-l-o-w moving office!  As missionaries deal with delays and frustrations, pray for a strong sense of trusting our Father, the creator of time, and for peace and flexibility as they seek His plans for their waiting time!

May 3, 2012

NOT the photo in an East African newspaper of a very confident little girl, her face framed by her purple head covering, quoting a chapter from the Quran at her ‘school’ graduation, but another that leads to reflection.  As you pray for children in East Africa, remember that like all children, they need time for play, time for friends, and time for learning.  Pray that they will be taught truths which lead to true joy and peace.  Pray that they will be taught to question what they learn so that they can truly “seek the LORD and live.” (Amos 5:6)

May 2, 2012

From co-workers:  “Pray for four volunteers in Iowa and six Florida volunteers as they prepare logistically and spiritually to come to northwest Uganda in mid-August, to disciple students in our third annual student camp. Expectations are high that we will have more students than ever to participate! Pray for another IMB couple in Arua as they make preparations for the camp and communicate with the churches. The participants, local students (ages 14-22) who are leading already in Bible Storying, will meet for 5 days at a local secondary school campus.” (Photo:  Maybe one day these kids will attend this camp!)

May 1, 2012

Some missionaries cannot get needed work permits simply for ‘being God’s messenger.’  Others cannot openly do ‘God’s work’ as those hearing our Father’s Good News may be at risk.  So they find other jobs “so that all the peoples of the earth may know OUR FATHER’S name and fear HIM.”  (I Kings 8:43) Have you ever thought that their required ‘cover’ may bring lots of frustrations and undesired restraints?  Pray for wisdom, peace and affirmation of God’s guidance as missionaries work out how they do things and how they can best share our Father’s Good News in difficult, limited situations.