Thursday, August 19, 2010
Ministry links
Just thought you might like to take a closer look at some of the ministries we visited while in Ghana. Handivangelism is the ministry that is donating both the temporary facilities and the land for the all new HOMe (house of mercy) for West African Mercy Ministries. Check out their international page. Rafiki has the type of setting that WAMM would like to use as they grow-with two parent homes forming a village around the HOMe.
Home
Yes, dear readers, I am home. Sorry it took this long for me to let you know. My head is still a bit fuzzy and there is so much to process. That last day in Ghana seemed to go so fast. Before we knew it we were on our way to the airport. That process was so typical of Ghana, with the long lines and impatient people but we made it through. We walked past all the shops and decided to use the restrooms before going through security. Good thing! Once through security, there were NO amenities at all....just half enough chairs for all the people waiting. We were taken to the plan by a bus and herded up the galley way like cattle....one big bunch of people all trying to get on the stairway wide enough for only one.
The flight itself went well and I was even able to get some sleep. Back in the US, we had to go through customs, reentry into the US, collect our bags, then check our bags, then go through security again. Then off to Chicago. During that flight we looked at pictures using Jim's laptop. That really helped pass the time. We arrived in Chicago 20 minutes ahead of schedule. Jim's one checked bag was damaged so he got to go pick out a new one. His wife picked us up and we were back in Mukwanogo around 2:30. Nick picked us up there and brought us home.
It was just so good to be home and to sleep in my own bed again.
I woke up around 4:30 this morning and have had a hard time with the time today. I keep thinking that it should be later than it is. All my bags are unpacked and everything is pretty much put away.
It is going to take a while to process all that I have seen and done and how that has affected me. The time in Ghana went so fast. And I have made some new and dear to me friends in Ghana. Brian and Debbie are some of the nicest people you could ever hope to meet and I am honored to have been their guest. I have come to understand their hearts and their mission a little better and to see firsthand the difficulties of operating in a third world culture. Having seen and experienced some of them myself, gives me a greater insight into their world.
I have also had the opportunity to see their faith in action. Their desire to serve God by obeying His command to have compassion on the poor and sick and to love the children is evidence of that faith in action. They are facing some real tests of that faith now as they have to find a new residence for their family (which includes 2 babies and an intern) by the first of November. Costs are prohibitive and rent must be paid for 2 years in advance. I am looking to God to meet their needs in order that He can receive the honor and glory and that all will give Him praise.
I just learned today that baby Julianna is very sick. She is running a fever of 104 degrees and will have to see a doctor tomorrow and perhaps return to Police Hospital. I have been there dear friends and it is not a good place to go. Pray with me for her healing as well as for the family as they care for her.
I don't know how much longer I will keep blogging, but I will let you know when I decide to stop.
Good night, dear readers, May God bless and keep you all.
The flight itself went well and I was even able to get some sleep. Back in the US, we had to go through customs, reentry into the US, collect our bags, then check our bags, then go through security again. Then off to Chicago. During that flight we looked at pictures using Jim's laptop. That really helped pass the time. We arrived in Chicago 20 minutes ahead of schedule. Jim's one checked bag was damaged so he got to go pick out a new one. His wife picked us up and we were back in Mukwanogo around 2:30. Nick picked us up there and brought us home.
It was just so good to be home and to sleep in my own bed again.
I woke up around 4:30 this morning and have had a hard time with the time today. I keep thinking that it should be later than it is. All my bags are unpacked and everything is pretty much put away.
It is going to take a while to process all that I have seen and done and how that has affected me. The time in Ghana went so fast. And I have made some new and dear to me friends in Ghana. Brian and Debbie are some of the nicest people you could ever hope to meet and I am honored to have been their guest. I have come to understand their hearts and their mission a little better and to see firsthand the difficulties of operating in a third world culture. Having seen and experienced some of them myself, gives me a greater insight into their world.
I have also had the opportunity to see their faith in action. Their desire to serve God by obeying His command to have compassion on the poor and sick and to love the children is evidence of that faith in action. They are facing some real tests of that faith now as they have to find a new residence for their family (which includes 2 babies and an intern) by the first of November. Costs are prohibitive and rent must be paid for 2 years in advance. I am looking to God to meet their needs in order that He can receive the honor and glory and that all will give Him praise.
I just learned today that baby Julianna is very sick. She is running a fever of 104 degrees and will have to see a doctor tomorrow and perhaps return to Police Hospital. I have been there dear friends and it is not a good place to go. Pray with me for her healing as well as for the family as they care for her.
I don't know how much longer I will keep blogging, but I will let you know when I decide to stop.
Good night, dear readers, May God bless and keep you all.
Tuesday, August 17, 2010
Goodbye Ghana
In six and a half hours will be taking off from the airport in Accra. We leave with mixed emotions; eager to return to our home and family yet reluctantly saying goodbye to new friends. We have learned so much while we were here. It is my prayer that God has been glorified.
The McIntyres received news this morning that they will have to move out of this house by Nov.1. That means finding a new home (they have to pay rent in advance) and moving their 3 children, the two babies, and the intern that will be arriving soon. Please pray for them......they only want God's will to be done and for Him to be glorified. Pray that they will find a wonderful home with sufficient room for all and that is affordable.
Yesterday was a day for relaxing? We took a three and a half hour ride up the coast and visited a rainforest park that had a canopy walk..7 rope bridges over a 60' ravine. It was fun. Then a on and a half hour drive to tour a slave fort. Then a two hour drive to the coast for a swim in the ocean. The waves knocked me down. It was a little scary....I didn't swim in it. We ate dinner at a restaurant on the beach. Then a long drive home and to bed.
The other team left early this morning to go to the village to help Dinah. They were excited to help her with her clinic even though they would be having a three hour ride there and again to return here. They will be leaving on Thursday.
I am sorry that we were unable to get more pictures for you to see on our blog. You will just have to visit and look at them or come to Grace Bible Church when we do our presentation. This Sunday will be a short one just to give you an idea of what is coming.
See you soon!
The McIntyres received news this morning that they will have to move out of this house by Nov.1. That means finding a new home (they have to pay rent in advance) and moving their 3 children, the two babies, and the intern that will be arriving soon. Please pray for them......they only want God's will to be done and for Him to be glorified. Pray that they will find a wonderful home with sufficient room for all and that is affordable.
Yesterday was a day for relaxing? We took a three and a half hour ride up the coast and visited a rainforest park that had a canopy walk..7 rope bridges over a 60' ravine. It was fun. Then a on and a half hour drive to tour a slave fort. Then a two hour drive to the coast for a swim in the ocean. The waves knocked me down. It was a little scary....I didn't swim in it. We ate dinner at a restaurant on the beach. Then a long drive home and to bed.
The other team left early this morning to go to the village to help Dinah. They were excited to help her with her clinic even though they would be having a three hour ride there and again to return here. They will be leaving on Thursday.
I am sorry that we were unable to get more pictures for you to see on our blog. You will just have to visit and look at them or come to Grace Bible Church when we do our presentation. This Sunday will be a short one just to give you an idea of what is coming.
See you soon!
Sunday, August 15, 2010
Intense
The word intense is the only way I can describe what we experienced today at the yam market. It is called that because the yam trucks deliver there and the yams are sold there. It is a refuge camp of 23,000 people. The children mobbed us as we distributed uniforms, pencils, and pens. They hollered and screamed in excitement at the prospect of being able to go to school. They are undiciplined and needy. They are the poorest of the poor. Words cannot describe the sounds, smells, and sights of that place. Flys are on the food, garbage is everywhere, people live in abject poverty. The streets are dirty and littered with filth and what I will call sewer water for lack of a better way of describing it, ran everywhere. The children had no qualms about walking right in it. Everyone wanted to be 'snapped'-have theire picture taken. And of course, they then wanted to see themselves. These are people without hope. Handivangelism is working to change that with their ministry to the children. I need to work this out more in my mind before I can share more.
The morning started with worship at Haaco Center. Still Baptist, but when the congregation sang in their native tongue and style, with the drums and the hand clapping, I was engulfed. I loved it dear friends. Sometimes I am too Charismatic in my worhip if such a thing is possible.
Dinner was at Echoing Hills another partner with Handivangelism. It was delicious. Beth stayed at the house to guard against tomotoe allergy problems...incase they used the same spoon in one thing and then in another during preparation.
We have decided to try to go to sleep earlier tonight as we leave early tomorrow for a trip to the coast. It will be a long day, but a sightseeing excursion. We will see the coast, a slave fort museum, and go on a canopy bridge.....I will try to get pictures of that!
Then Tuesday, and the flight home. we leave Accra at 11 pm, but have to be at the airport by 8 pm. I am looking forward to coming home, but not to the airpoane ride that will bring me there.
I am trusting that the same God that brought me to Ghana will bring me home.
The morning started with worship at Haaco Center. Still Baptist, but when the congregation sang in their native tongue and style, with the drums and the hand clapping, I was engulfed. I loved it dear friends. Sometimes I am too Charismatic in my worhip if such a thing is possible.
Dinner was at Echoing Hills another partner with Handivangelism. It was delicious. Beth stayed at the house to guard against tomotoe allergy problems...incase they used the same spoon in one thing and then in another during preparation.
We have decided to try to go to sleep earlier tonight as we leave early tomorrow for a trip to the coast. It will be a long day, but a sightseeing excursion. We will see the coast, a slave fort museum, and go on a canopy bridge.....I will try to get pictures of that!
Then Tuesday, and the flight home. we leave Accra at 11 pm, but have to be at the airport by 8 pm. I am looking forward to coming home, but not to the airpoane ride that will bring me there.
I am trusting that the same God that brought me to Ghana will bring me home.
Saturday, August 14, 2010
Early Morning Reflections
Even in ghana, this early morning time is so precious to me. God reveals himself to me in the new day as the birds begin their songs and the earth comes alive. Here in Ghana the sun doesn't shine until 6-ish, unless it is the rainy season and the sun stays behind the clouds.
God has been faithful throughout this mission trip. He is answering prayers and revealing Himself to me daily. I have found our daily devotion time to be both challenging and rewarding. It is such a blessing to talk about what being a Christian is all about...What does God expect from us.....How does He work....What about fear....and so much more. We are using John Piper's "Pierced by the Word" I have found the author to be very insightful and would encourage you to read it. It is a 31 day devotional meant to pierce the heart of the reader with the Word of God that he or she may become the very embodiment of that Word. How else are others to see Jesus in us. If we are filled with, satisfied in, and walking in His Word others will know that He is God to His glory. As God's Word pierces deep into our souls it changes us into who we should be.
The very first study was about the love of God and how His love is demonstrated in every circumstance....not just the good ones. This is the love that is in us in Christ Jesus...the Love of God. Piper say's ""Love is doing whatever you need to do to help people see and savor the glory of God in Christ Forever and ever. Love keeps God central. Because the soul was made for God." That is just a taste of what God has been revealing to me.
and every day, He is faithful to give me some challenge to use what He has shown me that day.
My prayer for you my friends is that you will come to this knowledge of God through His Son Jesus Christ.
God has been faithful throughout this mission trip. He is answering prayers and revealing Himself to me daily. I have found our daily devotion time to be both challenging and rewarding. It is such a blessing to talk about what being a Christian is all about...What does God expect from us.....How does He work....What about fear....and so much more. We are using John Piper's "Pierced by the Word" I have found the author to be very insightful and would encourage you to read it. It is a 31 day devotional meant to pierce the heart of the reader with the Word of God that he or she may become the very embodiment of that Word. How else are others to see Jesus in us. If we are filled with, satisfied in, and walking in His Word others will know that He is God to His glory. As God's Word pierces deep into our souls it changes us into who we should be.
The very first study was about the love of God and how His love is demonstrated in every circumstance....not just the good ones. This is the love that is in us in Christ Jesus...the Love of God. Piper say's ""Love is doing whatever you need to do to help people see and savor the glory of God in Christ Forever and ever. Love keeps God central. Because the soul was made for God." That is just a taste of what God has been revealing to me.
and every day, He is faithful to give me some challenge to use what He has shown me that day.
My prayer for you my friends is that you will come to this knowledge of God through His Son Jesus Christ.
Friday, August 13, 2010
Rafiki House
We went to visit Rafiki House today. It was what we had on our plan and it actually happened.
This is a different kind of orphanage; one that McIntyres would like to fashion their baby home after, the difference being that they would having both mothers and fathers on site to raise the babies. The Rafiki here in Ghana is the first of ten; one in each of ten African countries. The goal of this ministry is to raise and educate these orphans from 1-1/2 to adulthood and see them life productive lives. By keeping them in ghana rather than having them adopted into families in other countries they hope to improve the country of Ghana. I know that I am not presenting this exactly as presented to us. But I hope you are getting the idea. The home is really a village. The children are in small homes with 'mothers' that have been carefully selected and trained. Besides those children that live there, approximately 50 orphans from the surrounding villages go to school at Rafiki. There is a school building, a dining hall, a medical building, and various other buildings. All these buildings are clean and well maintained. the children also are clean and well fed. This orphanage village is about a 45 minute drive (on a good day) from Accra. There are hills which are called mountains here, and lots of grass and some trees. It is by far one of the nicest places, aside from McIntyre's that we have visited so far. Tomorrow we will be going back to Beacon House with team two.
The weather today was cool (75)and cloudy with a few drizzles. The sun did shine for a few minutes. Perhaps it will shine a little more tomorrow, but I won't hold my breath.
This is a different kind of orphanage; one that McIntyres would like to fashion their baby home after, the difference being that they would having both mothers and fathers on site to raise the babies. The Rafiki here in Ghana is the first of ten; one in each of ten African countries. The goal of this ministry is to raise and educate these orphans from 1-1/2 to adulthood and see them life productive lives. By keeping them in ghana rather than having them adopted into families in other countries they hope to improve the country of Ghana. I know that I am not presenting this exactly as presented to us. But I hope you are getting the idea. The home is really a village. The children are in small homes with 'mothers' that have been carefully selected and trained. Besides those children that live there, approximately 50 orphans from the surrounding villages go to school at Rafiki. There is a school building, a dining hall, a medical building, and various other buildings. All these buildings are clean and well maintained. the children also are clean and well fed. This orphanage village is about a 45 minute drive (on a good day) from Accra. There are hills which are called mountains here, and lots of grass and some trees. It is by far one of the nicest places, aside from McIntyre's that we have visited so far. Tomorrow we will be going back to Beacon House with team two.
The weather today was cool (75)and cloudy with a few drizzles. The sun did shine for a few minutes. Perhaps it will shine a little more tomorrow, but I won't hold my breath.
Thursday, August 12, 2010
some pictures
Bush rat anyone? A small termite hill.
Beth taking a picture at Echoing Hills. A muddy drive home after church on Sunday.
The roadside as seen from the van. I will be bringing many more pictures home with me. Beth and I will be doing a presentation, I think, during the Sunday School hour the Sunday after we get back.
There is so much going on in my brain that I don't always know how best to convey it. God has been teaching me how difficult any ministry can be in this country. Having experienced some of the culture, the power outages and internet interruptions, among other things.
There are only a few days left before we return home. It will be interesting to see if the planned itinerary holds while the second team is here.
The house seems very full with the addition of 5 women, but we will all manage. It will be very empty and quiet for McIntyres after we leave. We have done our bewt to spoil the babies. Got to go.Talk again later.
New Team Arrives
The new team arrived today, prettymuch on schedule and with all their baggage. Now I have a much better idea of what Beth and & must have looked like when we arrived....hot and tired. our babies were a big hit-go figure. Everyone is pretty much settled in and ready for whatever tomorrow will bring. We might even get to do what is on our schedule which is a trip to visit Rifiki, an orphanage with a set up similar to what Brian envisions WAMM's homes to be. We might even visit a boys home after that. Everyone will have to be up and had breakfast early.
Wednesday, August 11, 2010
Rain,Rain, go away.
It is raining again in Ghana. Isn't this the land of sunshine. Today is our washday. We managed to get two loads washed and one dryed before the electric went out again. This is the third and longest outage we have experienced. Not much else happened today. Teeam 2 arriving tomorrow.
Monday
We experienced our first electrical outage this evening. We were visiting with Paul Adeen from ‘Word of Life’ when everything went dark and quiet. Immediately, those with cell phones opened them in order to locate the nearest flashlight. They are placed strategically around the house. Every room has one. Of course that meant no computer usage unless we wanted to use up our battery. After about 45 minutes, Brian went around turning off the high usage items and powered up the generator. Once the lights were back on it only took about 5 more minutes for the electric to come back on. Since it was almost 8:30, we came up here for our evening talk with our husbands via Skype. Guess what? Internet is down. TIG This is Ghana!
Word of Life is a ministry to children much like Grace Bible Church’s Awana Club. The biggest difference is that Paul has been asked to visit and teach the Bible in the public schools. He was appalled that The Bible isn’t being taught in the United States.
We visited Echoing Hills today. This will be the site of the new facility for the babies. There will be a lot of renovation needed to get it ready. The floor will have to be chipped up and leveled to provide a base for tile floors. Walls need to be removed and new walls built. Upgrading of electrical and plumbing. Patching and painting of walls. And many other details I am sure that I have no knowledge of at the moment. Also, located on that same property is the site of the new Home that McIntyres are planning to build in the future, God willing.
Another thing we did at Echoing Hills was help with their program for the handicapped. They have a small clinic staffed with a medical assistant and someone to help with the pharmacy. There are two small examination rooms and a lab whose equipment was pitiful. There are several young men and one woman who are deaf. Beth was able to communicate by sign with them although her signing is limited. Something for both of us to work on. The Ghanese people consider anyone with any type of handicap to be demon possessed. The school has several mentally challenged and blind young people. They are being taught to read, write, and do math to whatever level they can achieve. One young blind man was studying his Braille in order to go to college to become a teacher. Food and lodging is provided and I would guess clothing as well. Today, we helped them with them studies. Next time we go we will be doing some activities with them….games, songs, etc. Perhaps ‘On the Beach/ In the Water’ a game our Awana Sparks just love.
We finished laundering, folding, sorting, and storing all the baby clothes that we brought with us. That is good, because the next team will be bringing more.
For those of you who are wondering what happened yesterday, we visited a very Baptist church service in the morning, and then went TO THE MALL! That was much the same as going to a mall in the US. We ate at the food court and then walked around so we could get an idea of what things cost in Ghana. Just about everything is quite a bit more.
It rained yesterday as well. That helped to cool things down but the humidity is still pretty high. Another cloudy day today. For those of you who know me, you know how much I love the sun. Nights are long….The sun sets around 6 pm.
During our devotional today, we discussed Psalm 63. David’s song to God during the time that his son Absalom is pursuing him. He is seeking God; thirsting for Him in a dry and thirsty land. David is terrified and brokenhearted and his first thought is prayer. He doesn’t ask for anything BUT GOD. He knows from past experience that nothing will satisfy his soul except God. Pray with me that that will be the experience I desire….to be satisfied with God. When we are filled with God, there will be no need of anything else.
Monday
We experienced our first electrical outage this evening. We were visiting with Paul Adeen from ‘Word of Life’ when everything went dark and quiet. Immediately, those with cell phones opened them in order to locate the nearest flashlight. They are placed strategically around the house. Every room has one. Of course that meant no computer usage unless we wanted to use up our battery. After about 45 minutes, Brian went around turning off the high usage items and powered up the generator. Once the lights were back on it only took about 5 more minutes for the electric to come back on. Since it was almost 8:30, we came up here for our evening talk with our husbands via Skype. Guess what? Internet is down. TIG This is Ghana!
Word of Life is a ministry to children much like Grace Bible Church’s Awana Club. The biggest difference is that Paul has been asked to visit and teach the Bible in the public schools. He was appalled that The Bible isn’t being taught in the United States.
We visited Echoing Hills today. This will be the site of the new facility for the babies. There will be a lot of renovation needed to get it ready. The floor will have to be chipped up and leveled to provide a base for tile floors. Walls need to be removed and new walls built. Upgrading of electrical and plumbing. Patching and painting of walls. And many other details I am sure that I have no knowledge of at the moment. Also, located on that same property is the site of the new Home that McIntyres are planning to build in the future, God willing.
Another thing we did at Echoing Hills was help with their program for the handicapped. They have a small clinic staffed with a medical assistant and someone to help with the pharmacy. There are two small examination rooms and a lab whose equipment was pitiful. There are several young men and one woman who are deaf. Beth was able to communicate by sign with them although her signing is limited. Something for both of us to work on. The Ghanese people consider anyone with any type of handicap to be demon possessed. The school has several mentally challenged and blind young people. They are being taught to read, write, and do math to whatever level they can achieve. One young blind man was studying his Braille in order to go to college to become a teacher. Food and lodging is provided and I would guess clothing as well. Today, we helped them with them studies. Next time we go we will be doing some activities with them….games, songs, etc. Perhaps ‘On the Beach/ In the Water’ a game our Awana Sparks just love.
We finished laundering, folding, sorting, and storing all the baby clothes that we brought with us. That is good, because the next team will be bringing more.
For those of you who are wondering what happened yesterday, we visited a very Baptist church service in the morning, and then went TO THE MALL! That was much the same as going to a mall in the US. We ate at the food court and then walked around so we could get an idea of what things cost in Ghana. Just about everything is quite a bit more.
It rained yesterday as well. That helped to cool things down but the humidity is still pretty high. Another cloudy day today. For those of you who know me, you know how much I love the sun. Nights are long….The sun sets around 6 pm.
During our devotional today, we discussed Psalm 63. David’s song to God during the time that his son Absalom is pursuing him. He is seeking God; thirsting for Him in a dry and thirsty land. David is terrified and brokenhearted and his first thought is prayer. He doesn’t ask for anything BUT GOD. He knows from past experience that nothing will satisfy his soul except God. Pray with me that that will be the experience I desire….to be satisfied with God. When we are filled with God, there will be no need of anything else.
Tuesday, August 10, 2010
NOT THE VILLAGE
We were supposed to go to the village today. God had other plans. Dianh, who was supposed to take us, was not up to going. She had some health issues while Brian & Debbie were in the States. We decided to go swimming instead. The men had some errands to run and left early. The rest of us went in Edwards taxi. We were several block away, when Debbie called that we should come back as we had forgotten Tommy. After trying several hotels, the pools were scummy, we found one that was very nice and had a refreshing afternoon swim. Babies are doing well. Tomorrow is laundry-our laundry. It seems with two babies it is always laundry day. Got to go, Battery is almost gone. Talk to you tomorrow.
LIGHTS OUT
We experienced our first electrical outage this evening. We were visiting with Paul Adeen from ‘Word of Life’ when everything went dark and quiet. Immediately, those with cell phones opened them in order to locate the nearest flashlight. They are placed strategically around the house. Every room has one. Of course that meant no computer usage unless we wanted to use up our battery. After about 45 minutes, Brian went around turning off the high usage items and powered up the generator. Once the lights were back on it only took about 5 more minutes for the electric to come back on. Since it was almost 8:30, we came up here for our evening talk with our husbands via Skype. Guess what? Internet is down. TIG This is Ghana!
Word of Life is a ministry to children much like Grace Bible Church’s Awana Club. The biggest difference is that Paul has been asked to visit and teach the Bible in the public schools. He was appalled that The Bible isn’t being taught in the United States.
We visited Echoing Hills today. This will be the site of the new facility for the babies. There will be a lot of renovation needed to get it ready. The floor will have to be chipped up and leveled to provide a base for tile floors. Walls need to be removed and new walls built. Upgrading of electrical and plumbing. Patching and painting of walls. And many other details I am sure that I have no knowledge of at the moment. Also, located on that same property is the site of the new Home that McIntyres are planning to build in the future, God willing.
Another thing we did at Echoing Hills was help with their program for the handicapped. They have a small clinic staffed with a medical assistant and someone to help with the pharmacy. There are two small examination rooms and a lab whose equipment was pitiful. There are several young men and one woman who are deaf. Beth was able to communicate by sign with them although her signing is limited. Something for both of us to work on. The Ghanese people consider anyone with any type of handicap to be demon possessed. The school has several mentally challenged and blind young people. They are being taught to read, write, and do math to whatever level they can achieve. One young blind man was studying his Braille in order to go to college to become a teacher. Food and lodging is provided and I would guess clothing as well. Today, we helped them with them studies. Next time we go we will be doing some activities with them….games, songs, etc. Perhaps ‘On the Beach/ In the Water’ a game our Awana Sparks just love.
We finished laundering, folding, sorting, and storing all the baby clothes that we brought with us. That is good, because the next team will be bringing more.
For those of you who are wondering what happened yesterday, we visited a very Baptist church service in the morning, and then went TO THE MALL! That was much the same as going to a mall in the US. We ate at the food court and then walked around so we could get an idea of what things cost in Ghana. Just about everything is quite a bit more.
It rained yesterday as well. That helped to cool things down but the humidity is still pretty high. Another cloudy day today. For those of you who know me, you know how much I love the sun. Nights are long….The sun sets around 6 pm.
During our devotional today, we discussed Psalm 63. David’s song to God during the time that his son Absalom is pursuing him. He is seeking God; thirsting for Him in a dry and thirsty land. David is terrified and brokenhearted and his first thought is prayer. He doesn’t ask for anything BUT GOD. He knows from past experience that nothing will satisfy his soul except God. Pray with me that that will be the experience I desire….to be satisfied with God. When we are filled with God, there will be no need of anything else.
Word of Life is a ministry to children much like Grace Bible Church’s Awana Club. The biggest difference is that Paul has been asked to visit and teach the Bible in the public schools. He was appalled that The Bible isn’t being taught in the United States.
We visited Echoing Hills today. This will be the site of the new facility for the babies. There will be a lot of renovation needed to get it ready. The floor will have to be chipped up and leveled to provide a base for tile floors. Walls need to be removed and new walls built. Upgrading of electrical and plumbing. Patching and painting of walls. And many other details I am sure that I have no knowledge of at the moment. Also, located on that same property is the site of the new Home that McIntyres are planning to build in the future, God willing.
Another thing we did at Echoing Hills was help with their program for the handicapped. They have a small clinic staffed with a medical assistant and someone to help with the pharmacy. There are two small examination rooms and a lab whose equipment was pitiful. There are several young men and one woman who are deaf. Beth was able to communicate by sign with them although her signing is limited. Something for both of us to work on. The Ghanese people consider anyone with any type of handicap to be demon possessed. The school has several mentally challenged and blind young people. They are being taught to read, write, and do math to whatever level they can achieve. One young blind man was studying his Braille in order to go to college to become a teacher. Food and lodging is provided and I would guess clothing as well. Today, we helped them with them studies. Next time we go we will be doing some activities with them….games, songs, etc. Perhaps ‘On the Beach/ In the Water’ a game our Awana Sparks just love.
We finished laundering, folding, sorting, and storing all the baby clothes that we brought with us. That is good, because the next team will be bringing more.
For those of you who are wondering what happened yesterday, we visited a very Baptist church service in the morning, and then went TO THE MALL! That was much the same as going to a mall in the US. We ate at the food court and then walked around so we could get an idea of what things cost in Ghana. Just about everything is quite a bit more.
It rained yesterday as well. That helped to cool things down but the humidity is still pretty high. Another cloudy day today. For those of you who know me, you know how much I love the sun. Nights are long….The sun sets around 6 pm.
During our devotional today, we discussed Psalm 63. David’s song to God during the time that his son Absalom is pursuing him. He is seeking God; thirsting for Him in a dry and thirsty land. David is terrified and brokenhearted and his first thought is prayer. He doesn’t ask for anything BUT GOD. He knows from past experience that nothing will satisfy his soul except God. Pray with me that that will be the experience I desire….to be satisfied with God. When we are filled with God, there will be no need of anything else.
Saturday, August 7, 2010
Another day in ghana
We went shopping again! This time we went to the Art Center, Ghana's market for their home made crafts. The Center is in a big park area, not a green grassy park, a dry dusty park. The vendors sell their crafts from stores that are not much more than some wood and cloth shacks. It is hard to explain and go figure, I never took my camera out of my pocket. I was so busy buying and bartering for items that I forgot all about taking pictures. Fortunately, Jim took some. We both have money left and will probably visit the Art Center again with the other team. Our plans are from day to day, as so many items on our itinerary have been canceled for one reason or another. We will explain more about that too when we get home.
Our baby girl finally drank formula from a sippy cup. We were about ready to give up on her in that area. Maybe now, she will start to put some meat on her skinny little bones. Yesterday, we spent considerable time teaching her to say da-da. She was doing that all day today. Tonight we showed her how to clap. The orphanage has a way of clapping to show approval and that is what we were showing her. Jim would clap and then I would help her clap. It didn't take long before she was attempting and even managing to do some clapping on her own. We will work on that again tomorrow after church and lunch and naps. Baby Boy had a little harder time today...not sure why. He continues to be a good eater. We found out that there is one thing he doesn't like--cheese.
Tomorrow we will go to church and out to lunch. That should be a nice change of pace for Brian and Debbie.
FOOD FOR THOUGHT
"There is something seriously wrong if our lives make sense to unbelievers" by Francis Chan in Crazy Love. Just something that Brian shared with us this morning during our devotional.
Our baby girl finally drank formula from a sippy cup. We were about ready to give up on her in that area. Maybe now, she will start to put some meat on her skinny little bones. Yesterday, we spent considerable time teaching her to say da-da. She was doing that all day today. Tonight we showed her how to clap. The orphanage has a way of clapping to show approval and that is what we were showing her. Jim would clap and then I would help her clap. It didn't take long before she was attempting and even managing to do some clapping on her own. We will work on that again tomorrow after church and lunch and naps. Baby Boy had a little harder time today...not sure why. He continues to be a good eater. We found out that there is one thing he doesn't like--cheese.
Tomorrow we will go to church and out to lunch. That should be a nice change of pace for Brian and Debbie.
FOOD FOR THOUGHT
"There is something seriously wrong if our lives make sense to unbelievers" by Francis Chan in Crazy Love. Just something that Brian shared with us this morning during our devotional.
Friday, August 6, 2010
We were busy today. God is certainly directing our plans as the itinerary has changed several times already. This morning we went with Debbie to visit the Police Hospital, they place where McIntyes picked up both babies. It was to be a short visit since we were just needing to get more medication for the baby girl. It only took a little over 2 hours. We were beginning to think we would not make it back in time to get lunch before going to the open market with Dinah. We did make it and baby girl has her medicine. After lunch we visited the open market with Jim doing the driving. I think Dinah was a little worried about him driving and she also wanted Tommy to go with us. She seemed a little worried about being at the market with the 3 of us alone. We stick out like a sore thumb in that mass of people. And oh, the people, the smells, the noise, the vehicles, the food, the flies(on the food),the stuff. Dinah was fun to watch and listen to as she bartered for food. She helped me buy some beautiful material that she said could be made into dresses for us. I think we are going to make some beautiful wall hanging quilts to keep as a reminder of our trip.
The babies are doing so much better. They smile more,and both are starting to 'talk' more. Of course, we don't know just what it is they are saying. Our little boy is about 2years old and definitely is not speaking English. Baby girl is about 1 year old and has such a soft little voice she reminds me of the cooing of a mourning dove. Last night she was humming to herself....it was lovely to hear.
Thursday, August 5, 2010
I am HERE!
We made it. The flight was long, long, and long. I had a hard time sleeping on the plane which made it seem much longer. We got through customs without a hitch. I guess we looked like we knew what we were doing. All the bags made it with us. It was so good to get here. It is warm and a bit humid, OK-it is hot and humid, but I am handling it fine.
Two babies arrived with Debbie about an hour after we got here. Julianna is about 12-15 months old and Cojo is about 2. They are both on the thin side and need lots of TLC, which we are doing our best to give them. I haven't downloaded any of my pictures from my camera, but Beth has done some and will probably post some on her blog.
We visited an orphanage this morning and had a chance to play with the children. They were excited to play games, blowing bubbles, tossing a football(not a soccer ball) and drawing on the concrete with chalk. The orhanage is understaffed now and there are so many children. And they are ALL cute!!!!
The internet has been off more than on. It was fixed this afternoon and so far has been working well.
Tomorrow we will be going to the market with Dinah. I am looking forwardd to seeing what an open market is like. Doubt that I will make any purchases....we will let Dinah do that.
Surely God is Good and His love is overwhelming.
Two babies arrived with Debbie about an hour after we got here. Julianna is about 12-15 months old and Cojo is about 2. They are both on the thin side and need lots of TLC, which we are doing our best to give them. I haven't downloaded any of my pictures from my camera, but Beth has done some and will probably post some on her blog.
We visited an orphanage this morning and had a chance to play with the children. They were excited to play games, blowing bubbles, tossing a football(not a soccer ball) and drawing on the concrete with chalk. The orhanage is understaffed now and there are so many children. And they are ALL cute!!!!
The internet has been off more than on. It was fixed this afternoon and so far has been working well.
Tomorrow we will be going to the market with Dinah. I am looking forwardd to seeing what an open market is like. Doubt that I will make any purchases....we will let Dinah do that.
Surely God is Good and His love is overwhelming.
Monday, August 2, 2010
It's Almost Time!
The bags are packed, most of the goodbyes are said, praying for a good nights sleep and tomorrow.....off to Ghana. Not much else to say, except that I am having some butterflies now and then. Nothing serious. Tomorrow will be filled with travel, starting with the trip to O'Hare, then the flight to Dulles in DC, and after a six hour layover, the final leg of the trip to Accra, Ghana. I still find it hard to believe that I am really going. When next you hear from me, I will be in Africa. Good Night all.
Sunday, August 1, 2010
One More Day
Today, we had a special 'sending out' at church. We each received a bag of 'goodies' and it is so funny that we all thought the same thing;"I wonder how much this weighs."
I realized that I need to be more conscious of those Kodak moments if I am going to be successful at sharing pictures. If I forget to take them, I won't have many to share. We had a nice lunch with Jim, Paul & Marsha and I think most of our questions have been answered. Tomorrow, I will do laundry, clean house, do any last minute shopping, visit my parents, and finish my packing. I am a last minute packer. I may be packing it last minute, but I have most of it in my packing/staging area....the quest bedroom. We will be leaving from here at about 6:30 Tuesday morning. Thank you all for your prayers.
I realized that I need to be more conscious of those Kodak moments if I am going to be successful at sharing pictures. If I forget to take them, I won't have many to share. We had a nice lunch with Jim, Paul & Marsha and I think most of our questions have been answered. Tomorrow, I will do laundry, clean house, do any last minute shopping, visit my parents, and finish my packing. I am a last minute packer. I may be packing it last minute, but I have most of it in my packing/staging area....the quest bedroom. We will be leaving from here at about 6:30 Tuesday morning. Thank you all for your prayers.
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