Greetings from Nairobi.
Over the past 4 months, we have been praying and seeking wise counsel on a healthy way to move forward in Digoland. Being reassigned to the coast of Kenya among the Digo people has presented many challenges in several areas. It has become very clear that Digoland isn’t a good fit for us and we don’t see a healthy way forward at this time. We are currently in Nairobi for a few reasons.
- To seek further counselling for Claudia and to get a handle on the depression. It has become clear that her depression is situational and not post-partum. In just a week away from the coast, we can already see an improvement.
- To take the time to get physicals and blood work done to check for tropical bugs and fungi for all three of us. Jeremy has been battling something affecting his entire body. He was allergic to something in the house or in the yard at the coast.
- To meet with leadership to seek a clear healthy path forward for our family. We have already had some good discussion.
When we started this journey as overseas missionaries five years ago, we were made aware of the saying “hold the rope.” We are so thankful you all have been “holding the rope” for us. Many of you have been with us from the early days and some of you have just recently joined our support team. No matter when you joined us, you have sacrificially given monthly or yearly and prayed to see the gospel advanced here in Africa amongst the unreached. That is why we are here and that is the call on our life.
Recently, we have been reading a book called “Celebration of Discipline” by Richard J Foster. One of the disciplines Foster talks about is corporate guidance. Foster gives the example of St. Francis of Assisi. St. Francis was at a crossroads in his life. He didn’t know if God was calling him to preaching missions or to devote himself only to prayer and meditation (A common practice in those days). He gathered some trusted friends and ask them to pray on his behalf. After some time, he asked his friends, “What does my Lord Jesus Christ order me to do?” They replied, “He wants you to go about the world preaching, because God did not call you for yourself alone but also for the salvation of others.” St. Francis jumped up immediately saying, “So let’s go – in the name of the Lord.”
We are also at a crossroads in life. We are seeking guidance from you, our supporters, whether to return to the U.S. to seek other ministry opportunities in the States or to return to Tsumkwe, Namibia among the Bushman of the Kalahari Desert after our upcoming home assignment.
Tsumkwe, Namibia was the location of our first assignment with Africa Inland Mission. We were not able to return there last year because of work visa issues. A few days ago, we were able to sit down with the Unit Leader of Namibia. He feels the issues with work visas have been resolved in the past year. Our discussion was good and candid. He also shared a very clear vision for the ministry going forward in Namibia. We were encouraged. The Unit Leader is asking for a commitment of a minimum of four years.
Would you pray with us? As you pray, and God gives insight, please speak truth into our lives. We desire and seek your input. You may email us. Or we are available through Skype anytime. We need to let AIM leadership know of our decision by the end of June or early July. We don’t want to rush into this decision. If we do return to Namibia, it would require you all to continue to “hold the rope” for us.
We plan on being in Nairobi for another month to get all our medical things done, to sell our vehicle and to pack our belongs. Jeremy is also going to shadow a gentleman here in Nairobi for few days. Jeremy will be observing a discipleship and church planting technique that leadership would like us to use in Namibia. In early June, we will return to the U.S. for home assignment.
Will you join us in praying the prayer below?
Father over the next two months, we specifically pray that You will make it clear whether we are to return to Namibia or stay in the States. We are praying that you speak not only to us but to our supporters and friends. Give us ears to hear a unified decision and wisdom to see Your path for our lives. We ask for humbleness as others speak into our lives. Amen.
Thank you all for your love, support and prayers. Jeremy, Claudia & Anastasia
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