Hi friends and family -
First off, I want to say "thanks mama" for typing my blog below. Yes, it was a wonderful surprise to talk to you! I really did want all you guys to be updated as it had almost been a week since I'd written.
Im here in Lusaka at an internet cafe trying to somehow put into words all that I've experienced this week. Im officially paying 200 kwacha per minute. (dont worry- that's like 7 cents) :) But I am going to try my best to walk you through a quick recap of last week. *I CANNOT wait to personally tell you stories of God's redemption from this week!!!*
The week started on Saturday night at the Mulungushi Village were we Americans went through orientation with Greer (head of Family Legacy). We were prepped on all that we would see and experience this week. He spoke about spiritual warfare and how we were truly going to be challenged as never before. Africa is covered so much in darkness. Satanism and demonic oppression and possesion are everywhere. Basically, Greer said..."Guys, this isn't VBS!!" Wow, I had no clue how right he truly was....
This past week I had the priveledge of knowing 16 of the most beautiful girls I have ever met. And Im not talking about beauty on the outside. Each girl has a story that has truly inspired me and challenged my faith beyond words.
**Tomaida lost her father to AIDS and now that her mother has remarried and wants nothing to do with her. I cannot tell you the tears I cried as this 12 yr. old cried and cried because her mother tells her she is worthless and should "go be with her father." She is beaten daily and yet still she can truly proclaim, "The Lord is my Shepard."
**Ruth is a double orphan who lives with her auntie. About 2 years ago her grandmother initiated her into Satanism and Ruth chose to sacrifice her mother (who was preg. at the time) in order to be inducted. She now wears scares on her chest and hands marking Satans hold on her life. BUT (and man do I love this part) the Lord chose to use me to tell her all about His sweet redeeming love for this little one. She cried as I shared the Good News and on Wednesday she accepted the Lord as her personal Savior!! You can only imagine how excited I was to experience this sweet time. But on Thursday my heart sank when she didnt show up and I found out her auntie beat her and told her to never return to Camp Life. I don't think Ive ever prayed so hard that night. But the Lord is faithful and on Friday morning she returned to Camp with tears in her eyes and a smile. She had snuck out of her house just to go to Camp. I don't know what she faced when she returned home on Friday afternoon...BUT I know that the Lord does walk before her and WILL protect this little one.
There are literally countless other stories that I could share. I just don't have the time. But God, who is faithful, has and will receive all the glory! I have been stretched from this experience sooooo much. Im learning from my fellow Zambian brothers and sisters. Their faith is incredible. They are soooo strong and speak with conviction and without fear. I know that God has me here for many reasons. But one being that he is revealing the fear that I so struggle with in my life. It's not comfortable and honestly havent slept alot but it's totally worth it.
SO, if you could...continue to pray. Pray for Greer and all of the staff. Pray for the Zambian disciples. Pray for me that God will renew my strength this weekend with rest. and most importantly...pray for these precious children.
I love you all and appreciate your prayers more than you know!!
Love-
Kelli
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6 comments:
Kelli.. It is amazing to read the stories about the lives of all the children there. I know it is life changing!! I hope you continue to grow...but most importantly I hope that the children continue to choose Jesus to save their soul and He will change them and cause them to prosper as He has promised!!!! I love you....keep writing!!
Wow! I'm greatly encouraged by your stories. I know you have so many more to tell and I can't wait to hear them all. Know that I am praying and fighting for the little ones you reach every day. I still ask that leaders would be raised up among these children so that they would lead their villages in the way of the Lord once camp is over. It's no accident that you are there at this specific time. May you be greatly strengthened and blessed in the work he gives you. Love you!
Kelli,
I am reading this with tears of joy and love in my heart. As Mem says, you have got to tell your story when you return. Christians need and are waiting to hear. We need refreshing of our faith and we need to know the needs of others across the world. We are so sheltered from the evils of the world; we tend to take for granted what we have and the FREEDOM to worship and go anywhere and mention His name. What a priviledge and honor that we have ! I love you so much and we are all praying for your strength and ability through JESUS to reach others this coming week. When He speaks, you have to go and be obedient. I know that HE will provide for all your needs-sleep, health, and the ability to say what needs to be said. We are here for His glory; not ours. Memory and Steve send their love and encouragement and she has helped pen these words to you as she sits here by me. She is such a source of strength for this family as you well know. I could go on forever, but I hope you get this today, Sunday !
Your Dad and I love you so very much and are carryinhg you in our hearts every minute. Have a wonderful week and know that we are praying for all of you !
Love,
Mom and Dad
Kelli,
I look forward to hearing your stories weekly! I am so glad that God chose you specifically to fulfill this assignment. I know that these beautiful young girls are being so blessed through you. I will continue to pray for your strength as you continue to witness to God's children. These testimonies reminds us of how truly we are blessed. I guess I will see you very soon. The trip is winding down for you!
Love your stories! Can't wait until you return to hear them in person! Love you girl! Praying and believing all the way!
You're definitely in the heat of the battle. I can't imagine those kids' lives. It really puts our petty struggles into perspective. I'm glad you are there making a difference.
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