"Orphans are easier to ignore before you know their names. They are easier to ignore before you see their faces. It is easier to pretend they're not real before you hold them in your arms. But once you do, everything changes." ~David Platt
Yes, everything changes...one’s eyes are opened and hearts are touched... This quote speaks to our awareness of needs around us...especially the needs of innocent babies who require love, physical care and spiritual guidance to grow into responsible adults. To the left is a picture of the the recently abandoned baby Jessica. Imagine what a difference a church-sponsored, long-term orphanage could make in spreading the Gospel in Tanzania.
Lindsey studied with Therasia three times this past week, focusing on the differences between the Pentecostal denomination and the Lord’s church.
Therasia’s friend (Jackie, age 17) was invited and stayed for one study and later studied alone with Lindsey. When asked why she wanted to learn more about the Bible, Jackie replied, “Because without God, life is nothing.” Both Therasia and Jackie attended our mid-week Bible study.
Last week, Margaret, a 23 year-old employee of the mosquito net factory, was mentioned as having a study scheduled with Lindsey. Although Margaret could not read well (translator read for her) and was nervous about answering some initial questions, the study went well.
Yesterday, the last child-training class for 2011 was conducted (for a total of 11). The mothers listened attentively as the basic Biblical principles of child-training were reviewed, emphasizing that, there is only ONE thing a parent should do: “Train your child to obey you... as you teach and live by Bible principles.” That’s it in a nutshell! Practical examples were used showing the necessity of the parent being joyful, the need for consistency, how and when to use the rod, spending the majority of your time with your children (Deut. 6: 4-9), the importance of physical affection, and the power of prayer. The basis for any good thing you want to teach your child can be found in the Bible (spiritual growth, good work habits, kindness, respect, good health habits, obedience to the government, hospitality, etc). A recent quote from a sorrowful mother is a great sobering reminder to us all: “If you lose your children, nothing else in life has any flavor or joy.” In addition to the Bible, Trina gained much insight from a book entitled “NO GREATER JOY” by Michael and Debi Pearl (not members of the church). Although we do not agree 100% with them, parents could greatly benefit from their books and dvd’s on practical, common-sense, Biblical child-training.
Sid Aultman and Jonathan Weimer (from Hoover, AL) have been busy doing evangelism and follow-up at Kwa Mrombo. They have also held studies with members in order to strengthen their faith. The dedication shown by these men to the work here is tremendous. We thank them and pray God blesses them for their sacrifices.
On the home front, Heather and Candace now have braces (Abigail should get hers off this month) and Lindsey was “set free” 2 years ago. Thankfully, the cost of braces in Tanzania is about half of that in the states. Abigail has been doing a lot of sewing for Christmas gifts and made Naomi the cutest little green blouse and skirt. We’re anxiously awaiting the arrival of the TCC group, especially our oldest son and his friend, Lauren, to make this holiday season a time of family togetherness. May God bless you all as you have blessed us.
In His Service,
The Jimmy Gee family
To view the complete report with pictures from graduation, please click here.