Today was a special day. It was also bittersweet. It was special because it was our last Sunday, and our last day to see many of the people in the church we won’t see tomorrow on our final day at the school before we fly out in the evening tomorrow (Monday). That also made it bitter – since many of these brothers and sisters and children we won’t see for quite some time again – until the Lord says it’s time to come back. But it’s also sweet – since it’s a culmination of our time here with everyone – a time to reflect, a time to honor and thank the Lord for what He has done here, and to cast a vision for what’s next. It’s also sweet because we’re coming home to our home in the US, and to our friends, our family and our church family. We’re happy to report and to testify of all the Lord has done here!
A few happenings from today:
- There was a special church service – planned from 6 months ago – that we got to be a part of. It was a big celebration and giving opportunity for their new church building project that they are progressing well with. Pastors from sister churches in other parts of Kenya came to attend. It was a full house!
- Rebecca got to see Grace, the cook at the school who she befriended many years ago, but moved further out of town a couple years ago. She was here at the church for the special service today.
- Israel got to help serve communion in the service today – he was asked last minute, and did a great job
- I (Tom) got to share a quick message on what the Lord has done through this trip. I shared also on Ephesians 6 and prayer, that all of the saints (believers) would be steadfast and persevere in prayers – whether in Soweto or in the US.
- It was a 6-hour long service, if you could believe! (we’ll share more at a later time, lol; and no, it wasn’t because of my message – mine was very short ?; and their normal services are more like 3 hours – still long by our standards, but today was epic)
- We shared a meal with leaders, church members and children following the service. Then we stayed and fellowshipped for a couple hours before heading home. Before we departed, we had a nice time with the church leaders, men and ladies, having them share with us, and us share with them – about our time here, encouraging one another, and praying together.
- Aidan was unable to come today – he’s mostly on the mend, but still needed a day to recover. However, Pastor Samuel’s son Emmanuel, who befriended and enjoys Aidan (and the other kids) very much, stayed with him at the house so they could have their own fellowship. (such a blessing, since we’ve felt bad him missing out on these last couple days)
- Sarayah requested a second sleepover with the girls at Pastor Samuel and his wife’s place – we obliged and she was thrilled.
We did not get many pictures today – was trying to be in the moment more than capturing the moment for later. However, Rebecca did get a couple: One with her and Grace, and one with Aidan and Emmanuel; along with one of Isi serving.
Thank you for reading about our time, and we so appreciate your prayers for our travels home tonight!
Love in Christ,
Tom, on behalf also of Rebecca, Aidan, Sarayah and Israel
