Dear Family and Friends,
Greetings are extremely important here in Nigeria. “You are welcome,” took us aback again
and again. We are used to it following “thank you,” but the first greeting to
newcomers is a wide open door of hospitality. We could not help but think of
Christ, The Door. Believers have done
nothing to be welcomed into His kingdom. He does not call us to enter in
because we have done something worthy but merely of His good pleasure. Likewise
we have done nothing yet to aid our Nigerian friends yet they welcome us
heartily. Pray that we will not stumble them in any way as we seek to fit into
this culture and mindset.
“Well done,” (or
Sannu in Hausa) is another kindly greeting that comes before one had done
anything, let alone anything noteworthy or well. It is a surprise to the ears,
and also serves as a personal challenge to the two of us. Pray that we would work with great fidelity and diligence. We long
to hear well done from the Lord, but mostly pray our Nigerian friends would see
Christ at work and find His
excellence noteworthy. He alone has done all things well.
“Lafia” is the correct
answer to nearly every question or greeting. In basic terms it means “all is
well” or “it is fine.” Every morning you will be asked, “How was your night?”
Lafia. “How is your wife (yayamatanka)?” Lafia. “How are your children
(yayayara)?” Lafia. Though the courteous answer would always be “fine”, it is
also the correct answer. The Lord Jesus Christ has been more than enough these
first two weeks in country. We are way more than fine here.
To answer many of your emails at all once-
Yes to beautiful home,
abundant and delicious food, and being able to communicate some with our family
members.
Yes to mosquito bitten, Gehrig driving van loads of children
to church, and the start of the rainy season.
No to our shipment
coming yet, seeing cobras or any exotic animals, or getting sick.
Yes to bottled water for brushing teeth, being here for
family visitation day (picture right), and the best mangoes ever.
Yes Ronda has gotten to distribute Rafiki Bible Study
materials for local church schools (322 pre-primary and P1-P6 students!).
Yes we are content, learning, and part of an amazing team.
Yes God has shown Himself faithful, planted a deep love for
these children, and surrounded us with a capable and committed core of national
staff.
Yes the best part of every day is centered around the Rafiki
Bible Study. Gehrig and Ronda have both been privileged to lead it many times
already.
Yes to a good national church, meaningful work, and utter
certainty that God has purposed our time here for our good and His glory.
One short story will
explain much. Our Village Administrator was interviewing candidates for
substitute mother positions. Genuine Christian conversion is a prerequisite for
employment in this covenant community. One lady professed herself a Christian,
but as the interview continued it became apparent to her that was not the case.
As the gospel was clearly presented she understood and her countenance changed.
She left Rafiki Village Nigeria a new creation. Thank you for your consistent
prayers. The LORD is answering!
Please pray
- We would daily become better fitted and more efficient teammates and workers
- That we would quickly learn travel routes, customs, names, and responsibilities
- That Christ would be preeminent in every conversation and interaction
- Safety in every area
- Successful procurement of an extended visa, CERPAC, and driver’s license
- Timely delivery of our household goods, tools, clothing, and medications without pilfering or excessive duty
- Regular communication with our family and other supporters
As always, if you would prefer to be removed from this
mailing list, just let us know. Please feel free to print a copy for those
without email or for your church prayer meeting.
God bless you,
Gehrig and Ronda
