Day 6 (by Zack and Debbie Mercer)

We praise God that He is allowing us to see His mighty power at work in Kenya. Our mission teams had another early start as we drove to the worksites. We have been blessed with weather that has allowed us to do our work with no interruptions. The construction team (Smurfs) have had overcast days which reduce the heat as they worked outside. By lunchtime, all painting was completed at the Baptist Chapel. Now the church stands out in the neighborhood with its newly painted Kenya-blue roof and trim. The construction team has been bragging about the variety of traditional African dishes that have been cooked for them by the cooks at the Baptist Chapel. Today they were treated to collards and sucumaweeki (boiled cornbread). Thanks to all of you who have prayed for this team’s safety. We rejoice that the job is done with no injuries. The Smurfs will continue to be blue for quite some time until the paint gradually wears off their bodies.

The VBS team heard shouts of joy from the children as we arrived today for our last day with them. We had mixed emotions. We were thankful to have met and interacted with as many wonderful people and students but leaving them was difficult for us. All of the students were given a bag today that included their crafts (decorated t-shirts, sun-catchers and their own picture in a foam frame), a bag of candy, a pack of crayons, a pencil, and a beanie baby. What joy in seeing the delight on the children’s faces as they opened their bags to discover the gifts. The excitement surpassed what we see in our own children when we celebrate Christmas. Pure joy! The teachers were presented bags also, which included t-shirts, candy, and markers for them. We received so many hugs. At the end of the day, the construction team was able to join us for the close of VBS. The students presented a program of songs and scripture as a gift to us and to let us know how much they appreciated us being with them.

After a 20 minute break to refresh ourselves at Karina Guest House, all 18 of us were driven by vans to Lucky Summer, for the second night of the crusades. This is another place hard to describe because of the filth and odor. The poverty is overwhelming as you see children with flip-flops and torn clothing. You can even see young girls carrying their baby siblings on their backs. People are cooking meals over small charcoal fires and many are coming to fill up water jugs at the local open spring. How they love to touch you, smile at you, and stand with you.

Many tracts were handed out tonight. The praise and worship was lively and we are learning from the Kenyans how to have some rhythm as we sing and dance with them. Becky and Ken spoke powerfully for the Lord as they gave their testimony to God’s saving grace that has transformed their lives. Luke preached an anointed sermon from Genesis about Abraham’s obedience to God and many more came forward for salvation tonight. We are moved by God’s presence and power as we see the people responding to the Good News. Hallelujah! Praise His name!

Tomorrow we need your prayers for our team as we stay together and do some street evangelism. May the Lord give us boldness in telling of His great love and saving power as we go door-to-door.

Pray for Chloe and Zack as they will be giving their testimonies at the Crusade. Pray for Daryl as he will be preaching. Pray that many who are lost will be saved. Pray for strength for us as many of us are drained emotionally and physically. We love hearing the encouraging words from home!