I first met Mary Jane, along with her husband Chuck in their early days at River Cities Community Church, because it is polite to introduce yourself to the newbies. Then I had the privilege of getting to know them through a Discovery Series. I appreciate their willingness to jump in and do what needs to be done. MJA brings her love for Jesus, as well as experience in nursing and other short term mission trips. Here is Mary Jane's explanation on how she came to join the team.
"Africa...the dark continent! Land of mystery and wonder!
The first time that I heard that there was going to be a mission trip to Africa, my heart leaped in my chest! I had always wanted to go to Africa one day, but little did I realize that it would be God sending me there. I do not know what He has planned for me while I am there, but I am willing to be a "Jane of all trades" for Him. I have done two previous mission trips to Mexico in the past and God always plugged me in where He wanted me to be.
That is part of the excitement of a mission trip. What will God have you do?
I have learned to listen for that "still, small voice", which is sometimes a leaping heart and sometimes take you out of your comfort zone. I am excited to go to Into Abba's Arms and meet the children and see that God can do through me to further their lives in His kingdom. And to see what God will do through the children to further MY life in His kingdom!
Please pray for our safety and that God will work in a mighty way through us."
UP DATES ON HOW TO PRAY!
- Items are being packed little by little. We have made the cardboard clipboards for VBS participants to use for their lessons and artwork. Many pencils are sharpened. Step three of making nametags will finish that project. Curriculum has been ordered for two years of Sunday services. Pray that we don't miss the purchasing that needs to be done on this side of the ocean. Once we are there certain items are not available or very expensive.
- The VBS lessons need to get out of my head and resource materials and onto Power Point. Pray for the concepts we want to communicate to be presented in ways the kids will comprehend and apply for the rest of their lives.
- We need to be spiritually prepared. I have ordered materials to help our team members be properly prepared for a short term trip. Pray for our hearts to be open to the Holy Spirit's work in our lives. Curriculum can only take us so far.
- We will be guests of Into Abba's Arms. We will be visitors in Kenya. We are called to be servants of Christ. Pray for us to walk in humility and know what Swahili words we need to use and when. :)
Kwa heri for now! (See, I am such a novice I put English in wherever I am short on Swahili. So you will hear mostly English and some WV English.)
