February 18,2023

The rains have come and with it, slightly cooler weather. It still gets pretty hot, but we’ve had a couple of days in the mid 80s. The humidity is still high – 80%-90s.

   The water is a blessing because the people live off of what they grow.  Last year people faced starvation because of the drought.

The only problem with this much rain is that the rains are washing out some roads, making them impassable.  Eric is supposed to be going to the city this week.  When he mentioned that he might not be able to because of the roads, the kids said, “But we need ice cream!”  Ice cream is not available down here.  In fact, most of the kids here have never tasted it, and we were told most probably wouldn’t know what it was!

A road in Blantyre 

The power still goes out frequently. I think the time it bothers me the most is at night as it wakes me when it goes off and on…and it gets warmer when it’s off. I’m okay almost all day without it, but it would be nice to have it during meal times so I can wash my hands as I’m cooking, and just enough to wash the laundry. That is, IF I could run the electricity. But, things don’t always go according to my plans.

Every time the power goes out, you can hear the kids say in unison “aawww!”…and again when it comes back on “yay!”  I thought it was just us, but we had to hold back the laughter at church one time when all the agogos (elderly) had the same response when we lost electricity.  The agogo women like to come sit on the mats under the ceiling fans.

Church services are never dull between losing electricity, trying to hear the preacher with the loud rain pounding on the tin roof, and even animal visitors. Wednesday was especially exciting as Milo decided that she would visit church. We heard a noise in the office beside us and there was Milo! I asked Eric if I should get her, but we didn’t want to disturb the song service. A few minutes later, she was walking behind the song leader! A few people tried to catch her, but she was able to dodge each of their attempts. She eventually went out a window and as we were walking the kids to the children’s church area, we caught her and brought her home.

As we were walking, we heard a noise and looked. In the little building where the teens meet on Wednesdays, there in the doorway was a big donkey! I didn’t find out how they got it out. In the children’s church area it is not uncommon to have chickens or ducks. And the other week as I was teaching, a big mouse poked his head out in the wall right beside where I was standing! Thankfully I was able to refrain from screaming.

The other week, when Eric was doing a Bible study in a nearby village, they saw a woman walking with a handmade door on her head, and on top of that, handmade hoes.  Walking beside her were her little children. One of the girls had a baby wrapped to her back.  They had walked 50 kilometers to try to sell their goods!  Can you imagine walking that distance WITH a door on your head and your little ones just to make possibly $30?!  It is humbling!

The Big Tree we meet under for Bible Study 

There are two things I am learning:

First, I am so blessed!

Secondly, we will never be bored living here!

February 4,2023

We are just getting back to normal after a sickness we picked up last week. Because I was home with a few sick kids and unable to go to the village, Lydia offered to teach a lesson to the children that would be waiting for us there. I heard she did a wonderful job! 3 John 4 came to my mind…

“I have no greater joy than to hear that my children walk in truth”

To see their servant’s hearts and joy serving is the greatest blessing!

Today we headed out once again to the village, singing hymns as we pulled in. Kids ran along behind the lori (truck) and adults waved as we arrived. When we got out and started walking towards the big tree, some ran ahead of us, while others fell in step with us. They are always looking to see if I brought my puppet, Isaac, with me. When they spot his happy face peering over my bag, they often point and whisper excitedly, “Isaac!”

A few men carried the benches from the lori to the shade, under the tree. Brother Shadrick had one of the young men run to borrow a shovel from a neighbor so they could clear the area of manure and any other unpleasantries.

Following the lesson, we always work on a memory verse. I put it to song to make it easier to learn and hopefully help it to stay in their hearts. We split the kids into different groups to say the verse to our helpers. While the kids were saying it, a group of ladies gathered around me and asked if they could earn a lollipop for saying the verse as well. I said of course! I directed them to the group leaders to say it. They started laughing (in their cheerful manner), saying those groups were children’s groups. They wanted a women’s group. So I waved over one of the helpers and said they could say it to him. They giggled nervously and said they couldn’t say it, and needed us to teach it to them. 

So, I began just like I do with the children…

❤️”Vesi yoloweza pa mtima!” 

(Memory verse from the heart)❤️

Except I messed it all up, of course, which only brought lots of giggles and I’m sure helped relieve some of their nervousness. 

I began saying the verse section by section, having them repeat after me…but forgot what was next. I paused, and started singing it to help me remember. Then I was able to help them again.

🍭One of the first ladies to say the verse held out her lollipop triumphantly after, bringing lots of giggles.

Before we left, the ladies began asking me if I would be coming back Sunday for the Bible study, which Eric started last week. I couldn’t say no. I was unable to go last week partly because of the kids still recovering, and also we have been concerned that it will be too much for me. I usually teach 2-3 hours on Sunday mornings with temperatures around 100°. On Mondays we have noticed that my blood pressure is dropping low and causing problems, dangerously low one day. We think it is probably due to dehydration. Pray the Lord will give us wisdom. Pray that I will do only what the Lord would have me do. Lastly, pray for this new church plant!

February 4,2023

Our days have been filled with ministering and language lessons-besides the regular schooling, housekeeping, and meal preparation. Recently, we’ve been learning some interesting differences about the Malawian culture.

One thing we knew even before we came, was that they are extremely honorific…almost to the point of frustration sometimes! (Like calling me Madam.🤦🏼‍♀️ Thankfully there are a couple people who do not address me in that way or I think I’d go crazy!😆)

Two other things we’ve recently learned are: First, fathers have no say and are unable to discipline their children. That responsibility belongs to the wife’s brother(s). If a child is misbehaving, the parents go to the uncle and tell him. He then will deal with the child. The preacher who shared this with us said it causes many problems in the homes. He shared that his family follows the Biblical plan for families, and he was thankful that their families respected that.

The other cultural difference that we learned was that of the relationship between in-laws. Son/daughter-in-laws are not allowed to eat or be in the same house as their in-laws. When a son-in-law (or daughter-in-law) meets his mother-in-law somewhere, he crouches down and does not make eye contact as he greets her. He walks, crouched like that until he is out of her sight. If there are bushes, they will crouch behind those. When a couple gets married, they must live near the wife’s family, unless they’ve been given permission by – you guessed it- the wife’s uncle.😉

Whenever you move to a different area, whether from the north to south in America or to a different country, the culture can seem strange and funny. We have a tendency to think that the way we grew up doing things, what we are familiar with, is the best way. Some of the cultural differences are beautiful. Some feel strange. If we’re not careful, we can go on a mission to change things. But that should not be our focus! Our focus must be on sharing Jesus Christ, and the salvation He offers! Both of us must examine our culture in light of the Bible, whether it is Biblical or not. 

The girls and I are wearing the cultural wrap skirts for our area. The pastor and his wife had bought me one before we came and Eric recently bought each of us girls one. Even though one of the ladies showed me how to wrap it, I have yet to get it to stay in place for very long. Thankfully it is always worn over your clothing.

January 26,2023

“Mommy, do you ever get lonely?”

At that moment I could answer her no because with homeschool, cooking meals, trying to get laundry done when the electricity is working (which, praise the Lord, has been more often lately)…I don’t have time to get lonely.

She was asking because they all have friends here that they play with daily, and we also frequently see the two pastors’ wives sitting on their porch with visitors. 

I have gone and sat with one when she is out sometimes, but there is awkwardness because of the language barrier. 

But I am assured that this is what the Lord has been preparing me for years. All my life He has slowly been molding and shaping me for what He has called us to now. 

As a child, we moved often. Then as an adult we moved to Ukraine, several years later to a state in the US where we had no family or acquaintances. There were many moments of loneliness.

Now as I am faced with greater loneliness and a higher wall between us, I could sink into depression and self pity. The temptation is there. But through each of those steps, the Lord has been teaching and preparing me for this ministry He has called us to. 

First, He has taught me to stay busy. There is no time for self pity if we have purpose. What does God have for us to do? Just do it! Loneliness has a harder time creeping in when our minds and hands are busy and filled with purpose. 

Secondly, just keep being friendly. The Bible says, ““A man that hath friends must shew himself friendly: and there is a friend that sticketh closer than a brother.” (Proverbs 18:24) It can hurt sometimes when you come up against that wall. It can even feel like you’re trying to break the cement between the bricks with a toothpick. But once you get a little crack in that wall, it’s easier to knock it down! 

Thirdly, look for someone who may need a friend – a widow, a new mom, someone new at church… I have found helping someone else always benefits me!

Lastly, the verse that has comforted me often over the years, whenever I felt like I had no man who cared for my soul, is…

“…but David encouraged himself in the Lord his God.” 1 Samuel 30:6

Our encouragement does not come from others. I remember a time in my life where I was very depressed. I felt alone and thought, “If only someone would message me!” 

Someone did, but the encouragement from that email was fleeting. Soon my discouragement returned and I fell on my face in the bathroom crying before the Lord. He brought that verse to my mind. After I drew near to my Savior, ONLY then was my heart encouraged! 

No friend can encourage your heart like Jesus! If you are lonely today, bring it to the Lord and encourage yourself in the Lord. 

(Little visiting doll.🥰😍)

January 24,2023

Kids were already waiting for us as we pulled into the village. Because of the chief’s request to meet on his property, we pulled onto the opposite side of the main road from last week.

Brother Shadrick hopped out of the truck to lead the group of kids to our new meeting place, and made sure they were a safe distance from the truck.

As he lead them down the little road, he reminded me of the Pied Piper. Other children continued to join the marching group.

We parked in front of the chief’s house and began walking towards the big tree. Kids ran ahead and were already sitting and waiting.

It was a large, majestic tree offering welcoming shade! Some kids were sitting on the large roots, as if they were benches and all around it. It was picturesque!

We walked down the narrow path towards the waiting kids. At least once it crossed my mind that there could be a mamba in the tall grass around us. Two tiny girls, possibly around 2 years, stepped into line in front of me, behind my girls. They looked so adorable that I almost stopped so I could dig my phone out of my bag! 

The kids told Brother Shadrick that there was a group of kids waiting for us across the street where we met last week. He ran off to direct them and help them safely cross over to us.

The little one who enjoyed singing so much last week came with her bigger sister. I was so excited to see her again! The entire lesson kids, and a few adults, continued gathering until we had possibly 100 there. (At least, that is what I overheard.)

After the lesson and review game, we worked on a memory verse. To help them memorize it, I have put it to music. Many of the kids remembered it from last week and really enjoy singing it. I offered a lollipop to each one who wanted to say it. At first, no one would stand up. Finally, a girl did stand and sang it. A few others stood up to try, but many did not want to because the other kids would laugh if they made a mistake. But it only took a few kids getting candy to give everyone a desire to try it!

They wanted a turn so badly that they began “to press upon us.” All I could think of is how the people would press upon Jesus! We were completely exhausted by the time we left. My mind went to Christ and how tired He must have been after the multitudes thronged Him! Even when He would separate Himself for rest, they would find Him! And He did not turn them away!

Oh! What an example my dear Savior was! May I learn to be more like Him!

Learning a new language, an entire new way of life, well, it can be difficult!

When we meet people, I try to greet them with the little bit of Chichewa I know. No matter how many times I go over it and over it,I still get so tongue tied that I look crazy!

Sometimes I’ll even throw in a few Russian words to confuse everyone more. My kids will whisper, “You’re talking in Russian again!” For some reason, my mind processes new language =Russian.😆

At times I’ve cried because I feel like I’ve failed or messed everything up – that I’ll never get it right. I get nervous and my brain draws blanks.

My first instinct is to just hide away in my house so I won’t make any mistakes (or more than I already have). 

I know I can’t do that, but it can be tempting. 

Eric and I were talking about it the other day and both thought of this verse.

“For a just man falleth seven times, and riseth up again: but the wicked shall fall into mischief.” Proverbs 24:16

I told him I just add an extra step – I cry THEN get up. 

We all make mistakes. If we aren’t careful, we can let the fear of making mistakes, fear of failure, keep us from doing what we should do. 

Even you may have moments like that. Maybe you’re afraid to make a mistake sharing the Gospel, or maybe you’re afraid you’ll feel awkward greeting a new person…don’t allow fear to rule your life, for fear is not from God. Pray, ask God for grace, strength, wisdom and do what you feel He is leading you to do. 

And when you make mistakes (because you will), just get up and try again!

Just a little excitement here on Monday! 

Monday morning we received a call from Pastor Nelson that he had killed a black mamba behind his house (also behind ours) Sunday night. It was probably trying to get some eggs. He said they get even bigger!!! This was definitely big enough for us! The kids were all excited to see it though!

Seeing it, we are reminded that safety is of the Lord. 

Sunday evening the ladies all sat behind the house while the kids played in our backyard. Praise the Lord for His protection!

Pastor Nelson and one of the night guards helped bury it deep. He said even the bones contain venom and can be poisonous!

I don’t think I care to have this kind of excitement often.😆

I was able to start the Bible study in the nearby village today!

We gathered around 7 to leave to the village. A few groups were going to be passing tracts and witnessing in the village. My group would station under a tree and start a Bible Lesson once a group gathered.

Mercy and Abigail were so excited to be able to ride in the back of the truck! As we waited to leave, they kept asking when they could ride in it.

The village is about a 30 minute drive. As soon as we stopped the truck, we had a group begin to gather under the trees. 

We set out some chairs and benches for any women who may come. Then Shadrick and the kids went around inviting kids to come to the Bible study.

Moreen, Philip, and I stayed behind. The kids continued to gather and just sit staring at me. Neither Moreen nor Philip speak English, but I was able to get Moreen to help me teach the kids some new songs. The kids were singing the chorus to Jesus Loves me and My God is So Great when Brother Shadrick returned.

As we taught the lesson, people continued to gather, until we had quite a group by the end of both children and adults. When we played the review game, the women especially loved getting involved and probably answered more questions than the kids! Even a few men gathered to listen to the story. Their favorite part is Isaac, my puppet.

Eric and Pastor Nelson are meeting with the village chief (as I’m writing this) for permission to start a church in that area. 

Please continue to pray for this ministry. Pray that the Lord will prepare hearts to receive the Gospel and give me the words to speak that I may clearly present it. No matter how many times I’ve taught, I feel I greatly need the Lord’s wisdom and guidance to clearly present the message He wants me to present.

“But Mommy, we’re not missionaries anymore because we live here!” Mercy Joy💗

I’m so glad that the kids are feeling so at home! 

Before we left the States, I started going through and giving away almost everything. There were a few things the kids begged me not to give away, like my little, chubby birds. I’m so glad I could bring them! As soon as I pulled them out and started putting them around, the kids said it feels like home now. Having a few of our own decorations from home makes this feel more like our home. 

The kids have been blessed to have friends already on the property. Every day they have a couple hours in the afternoon to play before supper. I’m sure that has helped them settle in more quickly. I know the girls will be sad when Grace leaves for college again soon.

Sunday was a very busy day. Church begins at 7. We sing a few songs then they dismiss the kids for the children’s lesson. When we were out in the village on Saturday, we were inviting kids to come. We had about 220 kids come! The services ended up going about an hour longer than I planned so I was scrambling to figure out how to keep that many kids from getting too restless. I need to remember to have a backup plan of extra activities.

There are a few kids in particular that the Lord has placed on my heart to pray for. I do not know their names. One I know a little about his family and their religion. They follow the teachings of a Jamaican man who says God is in you. I don’t know all that their religion teaches, but I know it involves the use of marijuana. He listens very attentively to the lesson, but has not raised his hand for salvation yet.

Immediately following the services, I went to Shadrick’s house to help prepare a meal for those interested in helping with the children’s ministry. We chopped onions, cabbage, bell peppers, tomatoes…made rice and chicken. We sat on the back, screened porch to cook. They had buckets of water for cooking and washing. On the floor were three metal, hourglass shaped things that they put charcoal in. They set the pans on top of them to cook on. It smelled so good! Every once in a while, a chicken would sneak in and eat anything that had fallen to the floor.

It took us a few hours to prepare everything. When we finished the meal, I ran home and got Eric and the kids. The meal was delicious! Shadrick then asked me to speak to the volunteers. Most are in their teens, but I pray they will see the importance of this ministry! Such an opportunity the Lord has given us! Pray I can get them to be involved. 

Pray the Lord gives me the words to teach! I want to present everything as clearly as I can especially with the language barrier. Eric said it does not hinge on my words, and I know that…but at the same time, what a huge responsibility! I know I will give account for what I say and do with this great ministry the Lord has opened up for me and I do not want to take it lightly! I want to bathe each lesson in prayer and study that I may be approved. It’s so easy to view children’s ministries as just a time filler, but OH! What a responsibility we’ve been given to impact a life!

Monday we started language lessons. My mind feels like a chaotic, scrambled mess of trying to keep up with home and giving my kids a good education. But I pray the Lord will give me clarity of mind to grasp the language that I may minister better! Please pray for us as we study the language.

Update: The internet hasn’t been working well, so this update is a little old. It is from January 3rd. The young boy I mentioned hasn’t been back to services.

The day didn’t go exactly as I had planned (I have found it rarely does)…but it went perfectly according to God’s plans! I have learned to let my own will and ideas be flexible and allow Him to lead and direct. That doesn’t mean I don’t make plans and prepare.

I planned and prepared my lesson to begin a children’s Bible lesson in a nearby village, but at the last minute we were unable to go because of a funeral there.  Instead we went out in our village.  Eric took 3 kids with him and Pastor Nelson and I took 3 with me and Shadrick.

As we started down the little, dirt paths, how I wished I had brought a phone or camera so you could see everything!  I don’t feel like I can describe it well enough with words where you can correctly get a good picture of everything! But I shall try!

Walking down the dusty paths, we came to different houses, most a mix of brick & clay or cement.  Many tin roofs held down with rocks, bricks, & other things. I don’t remember seeing any glass in windows, just bars.  Some have a piece of roofing tin placed up to “close” the window.

When we approached the first house and yelled out our greeting, they immediately rushed around getting chairs set outside in the shade. We waited until they called us over to sit. Shadrick said you can tell if you are welcome or not if they bring out chairs or mats.     My mind has been so busy and unclear lately.  I feel like Moses, “Lord! I cannot speak!”  I prayed and asked the Lord to give me clarity of mind to present the Gospel clearly and use my tongue.  For about 20 minutes, the Lord gave me liberty to share the Gospel.  The Lord opened up 5-6 homes for us.  If the Lord can use me, with a mind that draws blanks  and someone who almost cries making returns to Walmart because of shyness, HE CAN USE YOU to be a witness as well!  Study the Scriptures, memorize verses, and ask the Lord to use them and bring them to your mind!

Wherever we met them, women were busy working- some peeling potatoes, others hand washing laundry in bowls, many carrying water from the village pump. They need to gather water for cooking and washing, sticks for their fires to cook over.  There is no electricity or running water, yet they smile warmly at us!  Even with their work load, they stop to sit and listen.  It is so humbling!

One of the ladies we stopped to visit with had a 6 month old baby.  Oh, how distracting he was as he continually flashed me the biggest smiles! By the time I finished speaking, about 15 kids had gathered around to listen.

Continuing down different paths, we made our way to the tiny market area. The path leading there was a little bigger.  Several rode by us on bicycles.  One boy had about 6 crates piled up like a tower on the back of his bike.

To the side was a girl in her front yard with a very large, carved wooden pestle and bowl. The bowl was shaped like an egg serving cup, except very large – maybe 3 feet tall. When I asked Shadrick what she was beating in it, they invited me over to look. She was beating rice to separate the hull from the rice! Again, how I wished I could have gotten a picture, especially when she gave me a beautiful smile! It might have looked beautiful, but so much work! How often do we complain about cooking supper after a hard day going grocery shopping in an air conditioned store! How spoiled we are! Lord, help me! I often feel so entitled to these luxuries you’ve blessed me with! Teach my heart to be grateful instead!