The Tanzania Weekly Update
Vol. 6 No. 5
April 25, 2010
Dear Supporters, Family, Friends,
"Standing room only" was almost the case at the Kisongo church building as approximately 100 people were counted. The normal Sunday attendance ranges from 50 - 75. Our Bible study lesson, taught by ACSOP student Eliya, came from the account of David and Bathsheba. The sermon topic centered around the subjects of judging others and forgiveness (taught by Mrutu, the ASCOP personnel supervisor).
"Eight is Enough!" No, we are not referring to children as was the case in the old television show bearing this title. However, eight is the number of times we have shown up in court (7 times it was postponed due to various and asundry reasons) and this last time our petition to adoption Matthew was heard and considered. The judge plans to give us his ruling by April 30th if not before. We're thankful to God and anticipate good results. Thanks for the many prayers!!
"Everlasting Life" is what we all want, isn't it? Christopher Mwakabanje spoke at the Lord's Supper table concerning the gift that Jesus gave to us and to his enemies at the cross (if they chose to accept it). Christopher was educated at Memphis School of Preaching many years ago. He preached in Moshi for about 12 years and recently moved the hour distance to Kisongo to accept the position of Director of the Swahili program here at the ACSOP. The people who supported Christopher's in his education have "gotten their money's worth" as we would say. He is a powerful educator and communicator and stands firmly on God's Word.
"I've been on the bus since 6 am" were the words of Chuchuba, an older (50 +) returning student when he arrived at our house about 5 pm yesterday. Traveling all the way from Dar es Sallam, he came JUST to discuss his re-entrance to the school in February 2011. Previously, Jimmy had discussed the details of his re-admittance over the phone but it was so important to Chuchuba that he wanted to talk face-to-face. This conversation took about 10 minutes. Chuchuba had left school about 2 years ago (after completing 2 quarters at the ACSOP) in order to earn the money for his children's school fees. Chuchuba, tall, "lanky," and enthusiastic, is a trained teacher and said he didn't want to have to depend on others to pay for his children's schooling. He has a hearty handshake and huge smile and is liked by everyone.
Our current visitors, the Boxes and Galloways, have been very busy conducting Bible studies and a 3-day Ladies Seminar at a small congregation named Kioga. So far there have been two baptisms. These two families are very much involved with the work here...financially, prayerfully and hands-on! We personally have benefited greatly from their encouragement.
We are so very thankful for the sacrifices made concerning the cost for our furlough. With only 8 days left the time is going "faster than that of a weaver's shuttle" because of the "kazi mingi" (jobs many). We love you all and appreciate you more than you will ever know!
Lord willing, we will see you soon!
Jimmy, Trina and the whole Gee gang!