"We must meet the uncertainties of this world with the certainty of the world to come." -A.W. Tozer
Welcome to Robin's Missions! Join me in my adventures in Southern Sudan! Hope today finds you smiling!
Blessings my friends!

Friday, September 19, 2008



(Read the end of the blog to find out why my angel painting is posted!!! ☺)

Re-entry...

It's a strange thing to be back in America--I keep expecting goats to keep wandering through some part of my daily life. For example, right now...only there are no goats. No chickens either. The only goats I've seen are at the Fort Worth Zoo. It was strange to see them in a pen, not wandering aimlessly around eating everything in sight. While everyone else was thinking about how "cute" the goats were I was thinking about how "tasty" they looked. Wow, it’s a whole new world.

Super Target was another re-entry moment. What do you mean there are three zillion choices? You can buy cakes? Brownies? MILK? Wow. Impressive. I found myself making a mental list of all the things I want to bring (or have brought) to Sudan next time. And it's not a short list. Hmm...

As I look back at my last week in Yei I can't help but smile. It was delightful to have one of my friends (from California) experiencing life in Sudan by my side. I bet she never thought she'd spend three days coloring different colored lines on makeshift dominoes. We also made one last trek to the Lura orphanage to teach and say a temporary goodbye to my women. They are amazing. The way their hearts are open to learn about Christ still astounds me. It was also fun. The women were singing and dancing around the compound. When else can you do a one legged hopping race with adults? And then they beg for more? We wandered between homes and played with kids. We packed. And finally we said goodbye. What a celebration. It was the tastiest goat (maybe that's why I'm eyeing the goats at the zoo in utter gluttony) I've ever had--basted with spices and other goodness. And chipote. Mmmm...and cake... I was spoiled. Three of the guys on staff did imitations of me in front of the entire crowd. I laughed so hard my gut hurt. For posterity it IS on video. I'm still incredibly thankful my friend Sharon got to be a part of that week. She fit right in, jumped head first into service and relationship, I had to remind myself that she was a visitor. But, like other teams that have come through Yei, the biggest blessing is that she knows my world, what I do, how life works, the crazy things, the sad things, the real life of being in Sudan. I am blessed.

I am going through Sudan withdrawals. I miss prayer three times a week at Bishop's Piot, singing and dancing to praise in Bari (and Arabic), my women, coloring with kids, savoring a cup of tea with friends, generally living life ...BUT...

The best part is I'm going back. I want to make a much longer commitment. I am excited to work with His Voice for Sudan. In case you were wondering, Sudan is part of my definition of home now. I miss my Sudanese family! And instead of simply asking for support I'm trying the tent maker approach the Apostle Paul demonstrates. I've made (am making still) Christmas cards. Look at the photo at the top of the blog. That's the front of the card! It’s one of my paintings!!!

So let's be specific. These Christmas cards ARE for sale! It’s not too early! A lot of stores are already carrying cards...but does the average card help a missionary get back to Africa? Doubtful. My goal is to sell 4,000 packs of 10! The first 1,000 cards have arrived and I’ve been busy getting them ready to sell! Hurrah!

The cards are glossy (on the front) 5x7’s with linen envelopes.
The inside says,
"Glory to God in the Highest! And on earth peace, good will towards men...for unto you is born this day in the City of David, a Savior, which is Christ the Lord. (Luke 2: 14,11) Merry Christmas."
Cost: 10 cards for $10 (plus shipping and handling)

I’ll continue to blog and keep you posted on how life unfolds, how plans for Sudan are going, what I'm working on here for Sudan, and all the fun! Again, thank you for taking this journey with me!

Many Blessings!
Robin

“We have to pray with our eyes on God, not on the difficulties.” –Oswald Chambers

Sunday, August 24, 2008

It is well with my soul!!!!

In the joyous times.....

What's the buzz?!

Well, actually there was a lot more of a buzz around (and in) my room than I would have cared for. I came home from work one day to a loud droning buzzing sound--outside my window was a swarm of bees. Ok, outside my room seemed alight as long as I kept my door shut and none followed me in. So I thought! I opened my room to see an even bigger swarm of bees! Maybe you don't know this but I'm petrified of bees. I can deal with a bee but hundreds, no way. They were getting in through the roof! I rushed to find help. Sadly there was no one around to help. Well, it was time to take action. Luckily, another friend had the same experience a few weeks before and I knew these stinging pests hated DOOM...a killer bug spray so lethal I think you could kill a human with a full can---ick. I started by spraying the can up at the roof on the outside and a bunch of bees flew off--Then I used my noggin, and sprayed through the screened window on where all the bees were swarming. Then I left the room closed and walked away until the toxins dispersed. Hundreds and hundreds of dead bees. In fact dead bees are STILL appearring a week later! One small step in conquering fears?

Then there was church last Sunday-- My choir gave it's best performance. By the time we sat down I was covered in sweat...dance, Kawaaja, dance! We did this one dance where we swiveled our hips a lot (somewhat as if we were skiing) and really got in the groove. I laughed to myself as I thought about the fact that NONE of the church choirs I grew up in swiveled their hips or broke a full on sweat! ha! I dare our choirs to sing and dance at the same time! :)

It is well with my soul...

in the difficult times...

When peace, like a river, attendeth my way,
When sorrows like sea billows roll;
Whatever my lot, Thou has taught me to say,
It is well, it is well, with my soul.

This last week a close friend, six months pregnant, went in for a normal check up. The baby's heart had stopped. They quickly took a plane to Kampala (Uganda) to deliver their unborn baby. God provided for them, in their grief, with people to walk along side them and take care of them in Kampala. This last Tuesday they brought the body home and we buried it at the church. It seemed fitting that the day was dark and cloudy with sharp winds whipping around us as we all hudled together singing "Nearer my, God to Thee" and other English and Arabic hymns. We each placed a bright pink flower on the tiny grave before it was closed. My heart ached for them that whole week, it aches still...

It is well with my soul...

Though Satan should buffet, though trials should come,
Let this blest assurance control,
That Christ has regarded my helpless estate,
And hath shed His own blood for my soul.

Three of our women in the Yei Bible study were pregnant at the same time! Two delivered hours apart on the same day, HURRAY! One precious boy and girl! We were still waiting for Charity, the last of the women to give birth, she was huge! What a joyful woman, a twinkle in her eye and a quick smile. She went into labor on Thursday and everyone was eager in anticipation. In the process her womb burst and we almost lost both mother and child. Thankfully, Charity's sister was there--with the same blood type--so her life was spared. For the second time last week I found myself at a funeral for a child. We were deep in the village, the baby's body was lying in the hut wrapped in blankets and we went in to pray. The weeping and wailing and even more chilling dead silences were all around. It broke my heart that not only were we burying a long anticipated child but they hadn't even told Charity yet. She didn't know until we visited the hospital later in the day. Our hearts were heavy. What a week... but God is good. He is good in the hard times, He's good in the great times.

It is well, with my soul,
It is well, with my soul,
It is well, it is well, with my soul.

My sin, oh, the bliss of this glorious thought!
My sin, not in part but the whole,
Is nailed to the cross, and I bear it no more,
Praise the Lord, praise the Lord, O my soul!

It is well, with my soul,
It is well, with my soul,
It is well, it is well, with my soul.

For me, be it Christ, be it Christ hence to live:
If Jordan above me shall roll,
No pang shall be mine, for in death as in life
Thou wilt whisper Thy peace to my soul.

It is well, with my soul,
It is well, with my soul,
It is well, it is well, with my soul.

But, Lord, ‘tis for Thee, for Thy coming we wait,
The sky, not the grave, is our goal;
Oh trump of the angel! Oh voice of the Lord!
Blessèd hope, blessèd rest of my soul!

It is well, with my soul,
It is well, with my soul,
It is well, it is well, with my soul.

And Lord, haste the day when my faith shall be sight,
The clouds be rolled back as a scroll;
The trump shall resound, and the Lord shall descend,
Even so, it is well with my soul.

Sunday, August 10, 2008


Singing in choir....dance kawaaja, dance!


My Sudanese outfit!!!



Dancing with AnneGrace in front of the cars at June's consultation meeting


Joyce and Charity--kitchen workers, friends, and some of my Yei Bible study women. Great servants of God!

Hugging small children...one of my hobbies :)

Yesterday over half of the church announcements were about goats... what about you?

And what are the odds that TWO pastors from TWO different churches that are BOTH in Irving, Texas preach in the same church in Yei, Sudan in a matter of a few weeks? I'd say the odds aren't high, but it happened! Amazing. :)

It's been a really interesting month actually. I'm thankful to be here in Yei. We've had two teams come (one from Kentucky and one from Texas) and I've been able to jump in and walk alongside each team while still working on the regular teachings and responsibilities! I love it! Also just continuing to get to know everyone here and forge deeper relationships--wonderful!

When the First Baptist Irving team was here we were focusing on the women in Lora. I can't tell you how excited my mamas at the orphanage were to have the team there. I'll use a phrase I've heard a lot of recently, "the ministry of presence", we worked alongside the mamas and got to be a part of their every day lives. When I helped in the kitchen within minutes my eyes were bright red from the smoke! Wow. Jen and I did a couple of days of washing with some of the mamas. I can't even begin to tell you just how strong these women are! They would whip through the washing of the wool blankets and I just struggled. My arms hurt for days. I could barely lift the water logged blanket and they would pick it up and wring it out as if it were simply a string. Wow. I will say, I am proud that the mamas have declared me an expert g-nut paste maker. Basically you kneel on the ground and grind the nuts with a smooth stone on top of an even bigger smooth stone. And then you grind some more...and just when you think it's done, you grind the g-nuts some more. I was proud of my tiny amount of g-nut paste I produced. When I think of the large amounts the women make every day to add to sauces, etc... I just stand in awe. These are STRONG hard working women. And what I love about them as well is the joy they have while they work. They are ready to celebrate and are so thankful for all that God is doing. They are also hungry for the gospel, in the afternoons the gals (from 1st Baptist) and I got to teach and sing with them. It was a blessing to everyone. The guys worked hard too---learning what it means to haul tremendous amounts of water from the hole back to camp for the orphanage to use. Again, it's the ministry of presence, simply saying you're worth it to serve...seeing people as God sees them, walking in their shoes, serving them, it's amazing.


This week they had another cause to celebrate--we have a NEW well in Lora! It's actually being drilled as I type this but they hit the first water on Saturday. This means clean drinking water for the kids and staff, what a blessing. We've been praying so hard for this. Watching the video that was taken just showed the mamas and kids jumping, dancing, singing, acting out how they felt with the old water (basically they got water from a HOLE in the ground...cloudy water...mmmm). God is good!!!!!

I can't believe that exactly 3 weeks from today is my last full day in Sudan--this time--- but still I'm not ready to leave. I am so encouraged by evening prayer (Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays) in Bishops piot and the "family" time with everyone that happens after prayer. I feel like I'm home. It's a great thing. :)


One thing I'm working on, to help with fund raising for coming back again, is CHRISTMAS CARDS!!!! I know MANY people (like you?!?!??!) need Christmas cards and they would be ones featuring my art...stay tuned... I understand that it's August but I hope to get this idea off the ground when I get back in a few weeks- I'm already working on art! :) Also, if anyone is good at web design and would love to volunteer to help me make a website PLEASE let me know! I'm trying to find creative ways to help with raising the support I'll need to stay here longer and using the web to show my art is just one way! But I don't know how to design a web page, so, yes, please let me know if you can help!


Blessed is the man who trusts in the Lord,
whose trust is the Lord.
He is like a tree planted by water,
that sends out its roots by the stream,
and does not fear when the heat comes,
for its leaves remain green,
and is not anxious in the year of drought,
for it does not cease to bear fruit. --Jeremiah 17:7,8

That's my theme verse right now--Abiding in God and trusting Him. He IS trustworthy.

That's life in a nutshell...so much more, but I'll save it for another day! :)
Much love to you all!!!

Robin

Monday, July 14, 2008

Hello everyone! I know I haven't really updated recently... I've been having fun with a mix of awesome chaos and well, a really nasty sinus infection... So here's the update for today; not really an update, just something fun and silly....welcome to Robin's Sudan Sing-a-long!!!! Enjoy!!!! Sing out loud...who cares if people think you're crazy?! :) Trust me, it's half the fun!!! Blessings! Love y'all! Robin

To the Tune of the Farmer in the Dell

We're dancing in the car,
Limbs flying everywhere
high and low
the pot holes go
we're dancing in the car

We're dancing in the car,
and singing while we go
heads hit the roof
and that's just proof
We're dancing the car

(We've all decided that the bumpiest parts of the road are the dancing spots...you simply can't help the fact that you're arms, head, etc...are bouncing around uncontrollably...get frustrated or laugh, it's your choice... if you knew Sudanese songs I would give you the one Pastor Julias spontaneously wrote new lyrics to and sung on the way to Lora a couple weeks ago--we had our own sing-a-long, too much fun!)

To the Tune of The Ants Go Marching

The goats go marching one by one, oh no, oh no
They're eating everything in sight, oy vey, oy vey
Get your clothes quick off the line
hide your soap and then your fine
and they'll all just eat some grass
alas, they'll be back again..no, no no

The goats are tasty treat my friend, oh yes, oh yes,
Well barbecued is the very best, oh yes, oh yes,
boiled goat is a-ok
and in our stomachs they will stay
and it's worth hiding our clothes
and our soap
as we live with the goats, yes, yes, yes. yes...

To the Tune of Santa Claus is Coming to Town

Oh you'd better watch out
you'd better sing loud
get your cameras
ready right now
Women's choir is coming to church

We're dancing and we're singing
in English and Arabic
the other people smiling
and cheering all around

Oh, you'd be so surprised
to see the two gals
with pale white skin
dancing around
Women's choir is coming to church

(FYI, if you didn't know we have two "kawajas" --white people-- in a Sudanese choir; yes, that includes me...don't act surprised!)

To the tune of Silent Night

Silent Night, Cloudy Night
Thunder comes
What a fright
Seems likes bombs are dropping on the roof
Lightning illuminates my room
Sleep is gone for right now
Sleep is gone for right now

Sleepless night, Rainy night
Water floods down the mud
Shoes get lost in the sinking soil
To get them out requires some toil
Rain and mud in Sudan
Rain and mud in Sudan

To the tune of Joy to the World

Flee from the room
the spiders come
get shoes, get sticks, get stones
let's smaaaaash flat
that pesky thing
that spins webs in my room
that spins webs in my room
that spins, that spins webs in my room

the spider is back
it will not die
it creeps along the wall
i tuck in my mosquito net
in hopes that it will keep it out
along with other bugs
along with other bugs
along, along with other bugs


To the tune of wind beneath my wings...verse and final chorus...


It might have appeared to be so normal
but the crows are jumping on my roof
I have no need for an alarm clock
but I need to scrub off the bird poop.

fly fly so high against the sky
so high i cannot hit the birds
more rocks, more rocks
to chuck at them
the birds upon my roof.


And one I wrote my first trip... to the Tune of Good King Wenceslas


Good king Wenceslas looked out on the Sudan dryness
when the land was full of dust, to aggravate the sinus
Rainy season long was gone,
temperatures were cruel
it made eating corn maize paste
even more like gru-uuuuu-el

Sunday, June 22, 2008

Hello friends!!!!

I had a marvellous day of teaching in both Lora (on Noah) and Kenyi (on day 2 and 3 of creation) yesterday.I really loved being at the Kenyii center with giant boulders and trees---it felt like summer camp and Yosemite combined. It's a little place of extraordinary beauty! The women were awesome as well. I'm so encouraged by their love of learning. After teaching two different lessons I was both starving and tired, but thrilled.

I love Sundays---it's both a day of rest and of fellowship here in Yei. Starting off the morning in worship with the EPC congregation is wonderful. African services are really special. I really want to know what I'm singing but I'm still really excited that I CAN sing along with a fair amount of the Bari and Arabic songs. Bishop preached on putting on the armor of God(Ephesians 6:10-20)--he really has a lot of wisdom mixed in with moments of humor. The service ends by greeting and shaking hands with the ENTIRE congregation as we file out. I appreciate that practice more and more every week because I'm starting to know the faces of the people. Hopefully someday I'll know more of them as more than just faces. After church I went down to German village for tea and conversation--it's nice to just spend time with people talking and laughing. In the afternoon several of us head over to the Vocational Training Center for an English speaking Bible study. I love having the chance to pray and worship and support friends from ministries all over Yei. As always there are tasty treats--fruit salad and cake today! We studied Deborah (from Judges) and the woman who drove a tent peg through the enemies head while he slept. For some reason it just tickled me that the sentence right after the tent peg gets pounded through his temple is "And he died." If he didn't he'd have quite a headache! I don't know why I am so amused by that...welcome to my brain! So both the Bible study and today's sermon seemed to touch on war. Things like: we're in a spiritual battle, put your armor on, be prepared, pray pray pray... good words. It's easy to start relying on our own strength.

I found out today that they are starting to arrest women in town, actually in all of Southern Sudan, if they wear pants (or trousers if you prefer to call them that). Across the board, locals and foreigners alike. Interesting...

I've been reading "The Genesee Diary-Report from a Trappist Monastery" by Henri J.M. Nouwen which is basically his diary while he spent a season with the monks. He was talking about the work he was doing there and came to the realization to "relax and enjoy doing". The idea of being fully present in even the smallest tasks; realizing that everything can (and should) be done for God's glory. The monks would write out A.M.D.G which stands for Ad Majorem Dei Gloriam...great isn't it? Ok, I'll translate again..."to the greater glory of God"...there isn't one task that can't be to the greater glory of God. Humbling. A good reminder when I stubbornly don't want to do something...Another couple of quotes, "Why do I always want to read about the spiritual life and not really live it?" and "The spiritual life does not consist of any special thoughts, ideas, or feelings but it contained in the most simple ordinary experiences of every day living." I've really been mulling over being fully present, making the most of every moment, and talking to God constantly, etc... Whether I'm doing laundry or preaching I can do it for Christ.

Now I have a question for you...what do you want to know? I would love to try and answer some of the curious questions about what's going on in my life here---Drop a line! Or just say hi, that works too! :)

The German boys taught me a new greeting in Arabic today... I'm really glad I got it translated before I said it...why? They'd taught me to say, "I'm going to beat you." Ha!


I have an assignment for you all--anyone AND EVERYONE please go see Wall-E (the NEW Pixar movie) for me! I know, like all the others, it will be awesome and if I can't go enjoy it (and support the people I know who spent countless hours toiling on it!), then you can. I have no doubt it will be money and time well spent...so instead of eating ice cream for me this week, go to the movies.

Happy Anniversary Mom and Dad!!!

A.M.D.G.
Robin

Wednesday, June 11, 2008

Howdy friends!

What a super week. I'll confess right now I'm tired. Although I have no complaints--the meetings we had were a great start and getting to know all the partners was simply delightful. We had a lot of laughter even with all the more serious discussions. You could really feel God's hand in the apparent unity among the partners. I was encouraged. We had activity (if not straight meetings) from about 8 am to 10 pm every day. So it's little wonder we're all still recovering.
Pray for continued communication and unity. It will be vital! :)

We welcomed the visitors with singing and dancing, Ann-Grace talked me into dancing in front of the cars with her--kids and staff were lined up along the sides of the streets-- just fabulous... what a celebration! We started singing and dancing about 40 minutes before they arrived so by the time we finally stopped I felt like I had taken a shower. That's what I get for dancing in the hot sun for about an hour. If I did that every day I would be in the best shape ever!

Vernon, Mark (both from His Voice for Sudan), Bishop and I took a whirlwind trip to Morobo and back in the afternoon once the official greeting time was over. It was pouring cats and dogs in Morobo. Kids were running and getting soaked to the bone just to greet us. Amazing. It was a short trip but I'm so glad we went. The kids just sparkled. I discovered, on the way home, that a stomach full of bananas, coke, and bumpy roads may not be the best combo. We all looked a little green. ha! But oh are those bananas worth it! There has been so much rain that the group that went to Lora almost had to stay there because of the roads! An adventure in living that's for sure. :)

Sunday morning my choir sang again. Never fear, there ARE photos...you'll just have to be patient. I couldn't look people I knew in the eye, but my my my did I dance and sing my heart out. You too could come join the Sudanese choir.

We said goodbye to most of the partners yesterday and then not long after we said a big hello to the Stonegate eye team. They're up in the clinic now testing the staff for vision. It's amazing that most people here only need reading glasses, distance doesn't seem to be a problem! It's great to have them here and they are wonderfully patient with all the tired staff here. It will be a fun week.

Sadly, that's the extent of my brain power.
Love y'all....drop me a line and say hello!
blessings!
God is GOOD!!!
Robin

P.S. We had a fantastic pudding one night and a version of cake another. It's fun to be a bit spoiled. Still, eat some ice cream for me!

Wednesday, June 04, 2008

The visitors are coming, the visitors are coming!

Hello everyone!

The compound is a blaze with activity this morning. Actually it's been
every morning this week. As clean as our compound is I've never seen it
cleaner! Every weed has disappeared, every bush trimmed, the dirt raked,
and the rooms scrubbed. I am the kitchen spy. Find out what the visitors
like, find out what they don't like and report to the caterer. Speaking
of the caterer we have eaten like royalty the last two days... PANCAKES
for breakfast...ok, so no syrup or anything of that nature, but I was
still felt like a spoiled kid hyped on sugar!And perfectly roasted goat
for lunch...can we KEEP the caterer? Please? Plus everything is
presented beautifully, something I grew up with in my family... It's
quite fun!

Who are the visitors? Great question! They are EPC's partner
organizations from around the world. Namely England and the U.S. This
consultation is the first time they're all meeting so we can look at the
future of EPC and plan together! So, we've been getting ready to take
good care of them. I've been working on welcome cards- Four fun designs
each paired with some cookies and sweets...just a little something to
say hi and we're glad you're here!

I have good news! My computer is working! I call it my computer on life
support but at least it's still alive! I basically can just use a word
processor and check e-mail but hey, I'm blessed that it's working at
all. And I'm thankful I did not chuck it in the Yei river. Self
restraint is a great thing!

A prayer request/praise...I got sick last week and they ended up testing
me for malaria twice. I really do not enjoy being tested for malaria, I
feel like a small squeamish kid when they get ready to prick my finger
to take a blood sample. I will even admit to holding a stuffed animal at
one point, some things never change. BUT the good news is that I do not
have malaria. I only had a nasty virus that caused me to sleep the
greater portion of two days and now I'm feeling a lot better. I'm still
running on a lower energy level and would love prayer for restored
energy, especially since there will be a lot of activity over the next
week!

Christine (my German co-worker) and I sang in our women's Bible study
choir this last week. We all wore Sudanese tie-dye dresses and head
scarves. You should have heard the cheering, screaming, and even some
muffled giggles that happened when they noticed two kawajas were singing
and dancing. It was super. Then Bishop announced that we will be singing
this Sunday too! Oh my! The visitors I happen to know I can't look in
the eye, they'll just make me laugh!

Ok, it's time to go change. I have a bright yellow traditional Sudanese
outfit that I've been asked to wear to welcome the visitors. I normally
just wear the skirt. As an American I'm just not used to parts of the
shoulder that go out past my actual shoulder! However, all the Sudanese
think it's awesome and love it on me, and if it makes them happy I am
more than willing to go the distance!

I discovered a great thing this week...a tri-weekly prayer and praise
meeting in the evening in Bishop's home. It is so wonderful to pray
together! Hallelujah!!!

Much love!
Many blessings!
Laugh today!
and eat some ice cream for me! :)
Robin

Thursday, May 22, 2008

Just a quick praise!
MY WATCH GOT RETURNED!!!! Ok, so I don't know who brought it back...but 6 days later it was left on my desk when everyone knew I was teaching art (aka the joys of stick figure illustrating) to the Sunday school teachers! The day after the Wednesday Church Fellowship meeting had been focusing on God changing the hearts of people who steal... interesting... :) What a blessing...

I woke up this morning to the melodic sound of the weedeater outside my window...ha!

keep praying for God to fix my computer! The guys can't figure out what's wrong! yikes!

cheers!
Rejoice in the Lord! :)
Robin

Tuesday, May 20, 2008

Hi everyone!

There are so many adventures and fun stories but life is not always easy- This week has been full of challenges and frustrations as well as joys and excitement. It all started with throwing my back out over the weekend-which I'm sure wasn't helped by riding for 4 hours in the car on the "roads" to get to the Lora and back. So, I'm dealing with that, yes, I'm taking care of myself and doing my exercises, I can move my neck and generally it is good. I'm just in the slow but steady wins the race mode-

Really, I think back issues would be enough for one week, but when it rains it pours- my watch got stolen (off of my wrist) and my computer got what we think is a virus and we're not sure it's fixable! YIKES! The temptation to take my computer and chuck it into the Yei River to have an extended vacation with the fishes was high--I'm thankful that it was only a nice dream in my head, but really I'm praying up a storm that it's fixable- It's amazing how much ministry is done with a computer, even in Sudan! I type up my Bible lessons and meeting notes, etc...much like a typical American church, only in the middle of Sudan! So please, pray with me for it to be fixed--or if you find yourself with a well working, spare laptop with great wireless capabilities that's gathering dust in your corner, I know a lot of people heading my way in June! ha!

It's really reminded me of God's faithfulness. God is just faithful and good when everything is perfect- His character is unchanging even when there are huge frustrations. He continues to reveal Himself and draw us near! How awesome! It would be so easy to miss the little moments of God's glory when seemingly big things make you want to tear out your hair! I moved into a new room yesterday and woke up with to the sound of singing birds (and one incredibly vocal rooster) and sunlight- I sat in MY reading chair (praise Jesus!) by the window and read my Bible. Wow, am I blessed. I got a chipote making lesson in the kitchen the other morning and attempted to sing the Arabic praise songs with some of my women. A friend brought me the biggest chocolate bar I've ever seen (sadly, I've already finished it...I did share... um, a little). I have an amazing community of believers of different nationalities around me. I have food on the table. I have shared a cup of tea and some laughter with the women I work with. I managed to be understood by the women in the Yei Bible study when the translator failed to show up. I have yet to be beaned be a falling mango from the warring tree. I have the ability to correspond with friends and family from Sudan! I have a Savoir that loves and cares for me! I could keep going but I think I might loose your attention! Overall, there are so many amazing things despite the frustrations; it's just putting it all in perspective!

This is why it's still been a wonderful week despite frustration. This is why I am still smiling in the hope our Lord Jesus Christ gives us. This is why I can't wait to see what the next moment, the next day, the next month has in store. I am not alone, I have an incredible Lord who is with me all of the way!

How has God been working in your life today?
Seriously, I want to know!

Much love!
Robin

P.S. I'm really excited to show off my home (my room) when all the visitors come for the big meeting in June-- Hopefully, I can figure out a way to serve tea! :) and coffee... it's really beginning to feel like a home! Now I just wish I had acrylic paints or some art from home to decorate with! :)

Monday, May 05, 2008

Some photos! See the end for the description! :) Hi to everyone! :)











Photos:
1) My and my friend Faustina (working with Delta Connections) in my office!
2) Illustrating at my desk :)
3) The women's Bible study in Lora!
4-7) The opening celebration of Lora orphanage!
8) The dirt piles left in the middle of the roads!

Saturday, May 03, 2008

Hello Friends!

It rained! I can't begin to tell you what a blessing that has been this week. I woke up to the sound of the downpour and felt like doing a little happy dance. It was so hot this week that several of us were thinking about digging a swimming pool. Ha!

I'm finally on the upswing after battling what I'm pretty sure was food poisoning. It's not an experience I'm anxious to repeat and I'm still working on getting my strength back. Thank goodness for re-hydration liquids--too bad I had to use all the ones I had in one week-*sigh*...but I'm getting better and for that I'm thankful! I'm also thankful for the amazing community here on the compound- People really look out for each other, and that's such a huge blessing when you're sick. Pastor Jackson even came and prayed for me. So, as unpleasant as it is to be really sick, it was also uplifting to see how much Christ shines through the people around you.

I had a chance to sit down with AnnGrace this week and just talk. It was so nice to catch up and also talk and plan a little for the months ahead and really the future beyond that. It appears as if I'll be based out of Yei for now, helping Christine (one of my many German colleagues)with the womens Bible study in here--and still at Lora--but possibly adding the women's training center in Kenyii and Morobo. After our adventure last Friday at Morobo I know it's on everyones hearts to really make sure both of the orphanages are getting poured into with God's love and grace. To treat both places equally! I can't tell you how excited I am to think about all the details and pray about the future! That's the nutshell version of a lot of thought! Just know that as I look at all that God's doing my heart is simply overwhelmed with joy. I'm amazed to be a part of it all! :)

I'm typing this from MY OFFICE! It's nice to have a place to sit and really be able to organize all the various things I'm working on. It also makes illustrating the Bible a lot easier. I wasn't bothered about my chair in the corner, but having a desk is more helpful than I'd realized.

I'm trying to find creative ways to break into the lives of the Sudanese. So far, I've began to get up some mornings to help the women prepare breakfast- So fun! I actually got let loose on making the omelets the other morning. Tomorrow after church we're making chipote. I'm obsessed with chipote--it's the closest thing there is to a tortilla... and if I can round up an avocado or two, and some tomatoes I'll practically have a burrito! yay! Mostly though I'm just excited to make chipote- I haven't done that since I was at the YWAM base here in Yei-- I'm thrilled. But more than the love of chipote I'm excited to have time with the women!

Pray for the plane crash in Southern Sudan yesterday morning. It looks like we lost about 21 people including several defense officials and a presidential adviser. http://allafrica.com/stories/200805020791.html I'm really curious to see how this will affect Sudan.

"May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit." (Romans 15:13)

Love to you all!
Keep pressing into all that Christ has for you!
Robin

Other prayer points:
-for the women's ministry--that God keeps the roads open when it's time to travel to the remote locations, that God raises up leaders, that He opens hearts...
- Traveling mercies for the EPC staff who are traveling to Kampala, Uganda for a seminar this week
-for missionaries all over Africa to be strengthened in the walk with Christ and vividly see the hope set before them.
-for the new German missionary family, that they can get settled (they have 3 children under 5)
-my health!
-For God's wisdom and hand in all I do, that it would be exactly what He wants, not me!

Monday, April 28, 2008

Friday morning I took a trip with Bishop, AnnGrace, and 9 other staff members to go change the sheets at Morobo. AnnGrace and Bishop had made a surprise visit the day before and were shocked at what they found- You could smell the children's rooms before you ever entered the building. Apparently the sheets were only changed to the "nice" ones when visitors were coming. Crazy! So new sets of sheets were bought (on credit because it's THAT important) and we went down for a whirlwind sheet changing extravaganza. All the old sheets should be burned by now...I hope! In case you were worried, it's all on film, Bishop had his video camera- Although my friend Megan gets all the credit for being there--Bishop spent the day calling me Megan and AnnGrace spent the day correcting him. Ha! After lunch Pastor Julius and I blew up balloons and let the kids chase them around the compound- what fun planned chaos! Squealing kids everywhere! Sneaky kids too...when we passed out snack some tried to stuff them in their pockets and get back in line--kids will push their boundaries, eh?! Anyway, I'm hoping that the new sheets are the beginning of a new way of doing things, that the kids rooms get cleaned for the sake of the kids not just the visitors!

Saturday it was back to Lora for the weekly Bible study- I'd call it the women's Bible study but we now have 3 men that come-- how great! It was a long day- Christine helped out the guys go to the water hole (literally) to get the water for the orphanage- Their vehicle had broken down and they were having trouble collecting as much water as they needed. They really just stuck the containers into this hole and let them fill with water- the water was cloudy, I really hope it's not their drinking water! If it is, it makes sense why the kids have had stomach problems this week. While they were off filling the water containers the women were having fun making the white person do various tasks- It was comic relief for the women. I ground peanuts on a stone, i attempted basket weaving, I learned to embroider, and i tried and failed at miniature crocheting! Overall, very fun! The women were very concerned about all the bites that covered my body-- Don't worry, the "bites" are only my God given freckles and moles. ha! Once the women were convinced that i was fine they decided that God must have wanted to make me Sudanese but forgot to finish the task-- funny women.

An update on the roads-- the UN has been doing some work to flatten the huge piles that are everywhere- it's a great temporary fix! I'm hoping the surveyors from Kenya and Uganda will actually be working on better roads for the future- As it is, two straight days of driving really have made me know exactly how many muscles are in my body, oy! :) But it's so worth it! 

Off to get a million things done today!
Praise God for ALL He's doing!
Thank you to everyone who is keeping up with me, and for all the messages-- it really means a ton to hear from you!
Cheers!
Robin

--
www.robinsmissions.blogspot.com
"Joy is the serious business of heaven."
-C.S. Lewis

Monday, April 21, 2008

About 1:30 in the morning I woke up with my heart pounding last night with a surge of adrenaline and fear racing through me! There was a loud knocking on my door. In the states (or wherever you are in the world)it would be alarming and probably heart racing as well-- but in Sudan you just never know what that means--Sitting bolt upright in bed, I was relieved to hear them call out "Census" along with Zechariah's (one of the EPC staff) voice reassuring that it was actually the census. We were told the census would happen today- after all the government has given a mandatory "holiday" for everyone to stay in their homes; I just had no idea it would be in the middle of the night. Oh yes, technically it was the right day, but still-- when you have to fumble around in the dark trying to find what you need so you can open the door it's not so fun! 3 million questions--yes, I am an American; no, I am only here for 6 months, yes, that's the correct spelling of my last name...Just when I finally got into bed and lay back down a flashlight starts sweeping back and forth. I kept thinking if I just lie here and play dead maybe they'll leave me alone. But no, it was the other census group also knocking loudly. Then I spent the next few minutes convincing them I had already been counted. So now I have been officially counted. And then I finally fell back asleep after an hour or so; once my adrenaline had stopped going crazy--*sigh*

Ok, here's one more thing-- Someone, one of the non profits or the UN or something, donated dirt to help fix the roads. That was a couple weeks ago now- It sounds great on paper, but currently all we have is huge dirt piles in the middle of the roads! Making them even more impassible, getting compacted by the rain and vehicles that are forced to drive over the sides to get through. The goats and dogs are happy though! Overall, looks great on paper, looks like something is happening but seriously lacks implementation and has at least temporarily made the roads worse! Pray for our roads to be fixed please!

Lastly, I just learned that the Yei river has crabs...one walked across my doormat yesterday, who knew?

peace!
celebrate a good nights rest!
Robin

Saturday, April 19, 2008

What a week—having all the activity from the visitors and celebrations was a lot of fun!

Thank you to everyone who was concerned about the cow’s transportation- I’m sure they’d say thanks as well, only I’m sure we’re all still digesting them! I’m sad to say I missed seeing the cows get loaded onto the big truck—I’m even sadder to say that Bishop didn’t put them inside the cab of his truck with seatbelts like he’d threatened to do! Ha! Wouldn’t that have been a great picture! But I saw the cows in the truck and billions of other things get loaded in with them- and I saw photos of the cows falling out of the truck when they attempted to get them out—what a production!

Two days before the celebration I was summoned to Bishop and AnnGraces piot (spelling? Basically it’s a nice hut designed for relaxing, hosting guests, and letting the breeze through)—they had a task for me- I got to decorate 30 plastic jars that we later filled with homemade peanut butter! The peanut butter (made from ground nuts and lulu oil) was a demonstration of all the ways you could use the lulu nut to make various items- For example you can also make soap, lotion, and use it to make cookies—did I mention if you put it in your yard it scares away termites? The lulu oil is pretty awesome- Back to the peanut butter jars, I forgot to mention I got them after work and they had to be done so we could fill them and stick them in the truck with the cows by the next morning- It took time but I enjoyed it! Technically I had help—one of the Nadus guys designed ONE jar for me- I only let him create one—let’s just say that AnnGrace laughed and said it was funny when she saw it. I rest my case. *grin*

Friday’s Women’s Bible study was small because of the preparations for the celebration—so I helped make cookies (again with the aid of lulu oil) and the women sang and prayed! Very nice! Oh yes, to clarify, it’s an outdoor oven that you heap coals on the inside and the top; it’s amazing how well it works!

The celebration at Lora was fun. On the way the whole caravan of vehicles were stopped to wait for demining- So we had a fun time of fellowship on the roadside with about 20 people from church! They’d created a large shelter out of long branches and tarps that we sat under. The kawajas (that would be “white people”) sat on the side and at the front was Bishop, AnnGrace, Pastor Jackson, and a lot of various government officials. Honestly, if I never hear another speech for as long as I live that’s ok with me. A couple of the speeches were good, other’s not so much—some seemingly had the same several sentences repeated, in various ways, over and over for minutes on end! I don’t feel too bad about losing concentration, half the audience was asleep it seemed. The kids were fun though- They sang their hearts out. What energy! What joy! I’m amazed at the kids there—they can sit still for so long! As adults we were squirming in our seats, but they patiently sat. It amazes me. One of the kids recited a poem about the war; part of the poem thanked Bishop, AnnGrace, and Vernon (of His Voice for Sudan…see link on the side!) After all the presentations, we feasted! We ate the cow—at one point I took a bite and five minutes later, maybe more, I hadn’t finished chewing! Yikes! Before we left I danced with the mama’s at Lora—then they tried to feed me more posho…I made a run for it… hid out with AnnGrace in the piot. Overall it was amazing and quite a kick off!!

Monday night we had a farewell celebration for Nadus and Stonegate, just a small meal together—it was lovely. After the meal we all gathered to watch the Nadus short films (about a minute and a half each…seriously go to their website and watch them! I know a lot of the people you’ll see!)—and when they were done everyone was still sitting- AnnGrace leaned over to me and said, “there’s your stage, go perform!...dance!”

Tuesday morning we said goodbye to all our visitors and it’s been a quiet but busy week- It’s been very pleasant- Chrissi, one of the short term German missionaries, is leaving tomorrow and we had a goodbye/happy birthday party for her yesterday at one of the other German missionaries homes. What a feast- I learned I LOVE cabbage salad—cabbage, tomatoes, pineapple, cucumber, onion, and lemon juice—I inhaled it. We also had bbq goat—not Texas style bbq, but still amazing and tender…wow… with fresh mango slices on top…mmmm…. Not to mention German potato salad! Delightful—I’m still full!

Well, it’s time to put the final preparations on my homemade flannel graph (ha!) presentation of Jacob showing up to his uncle’s and getting tricked into marrying the wrong girl. My favorite part is the conga line of sheep—I think I’ll be the only one tickled by that but that’s ok!

Cheers mates!
Robin

Thursday, April 10, 2008

Hey everyone!

Just a quick update... it's been an absolutely beautiful couple of day! There's been a wonderful breeze and cloud cover! What a blessing! :)

I led the Women's Bible study on Tuesday as we studied Genesis 27 (Isaac blesses Jacob)-- I told them the story in more of an oral tradition form--as if I were telling a children's story with lots of expression, differing voices, hand motions, etc... Immediately after I had them play it as a drama- I can't tell you how hard I laughed! Especially when they took the "goats" (3 women in the study who did great imitations of goats!) across so Rebekah could use the hair to make Jacob seem like Esau...um, they did a complete and accurate reenactment of slaughtering goats...oh my! I will never ever forget it; ever!

The team from Stonegate Fellowship Church made it safely to Yei, and I'm more than thankful for the jars of peanut butter and chocolate treats they brought me; oh yes, it's super to see them as well. :) We had a great prayer time with them and the church staff yesterday and I loved the opportunity to hear more of the prayer requests on the pastors' hearts! The Nadus guys have been all over taking more video for their documentary and are currently at the Yei hospital waiting patiently to record a birth! It's been fun to have this much commotion on the compound!

And it's all gearing up! One of yesterday's prayer requests was for the transport of cows. Apparently Zechariah is having a wee bit of trouble figuring out how to get a few cows (they were brought on the compound yesterday and they're huge!) to Lora for the orphanage kick off on Saturday! It's going to be a feast!

Sunday it sounds like we'll be having a bbq (roasted goat style) with Stonegate, Nadus, and the congregation--another feast! Singing, dancing, and sharing are a must!

I'm really excited for the water purification system that the Nadus guys are going to install at Lora-- especially in light of the cholera outbreak in Southern Sudan. Apparently it's common at the beginning of rainy season but prayer would definitely be appreciated!

Here's a tip...if you ever attempt to cut your own bangs make sure you close your eye first... um, trimmed eyelashes look a little funky...I will neither confirm nor deny that I just learned that from experience...

over and out!
Robin

Prayer Requests:
-the cholera outbreak
-the upcoming elections: that God would pave the way for a great leader
-the census that it's fair, well organized, and QUICK!
-for the Pastors: may God give them strength and wisdom
-the transportation of hopefully happy cows to Lora
and that no one gets hurt in the process of loading and unloading them!

Monday, April 07, 2008

Hi everyone!!!

It's been a great week and I only have one complaint...goats don't listen to reason. As much as I've tried to logically explain that my doorstep really isn't their own personal toilet they just don't listen! Maybe they need hearing aids or an interpreter; none the less it's been 3 or 4 times this week that I've arrived back at my room to catch the pesky goats on my doorstep. Well, at least they're not eating my soap or clothes, eh?!

I've been to Lora (I think that might be the actual spelling from a sign I saw the other day) orphanage twice now- It's beautiful. It's located near mountains and the compound is so clean! The ground is flat and weedless, the dorms look sharp, it just amazes me! Christine and I drove to Lora on Thursday to teach the women's Bible study. Little did we know they weren't expecting us on Thursday but on Saturday, so we turned around and drove back. It's an interesting drive; I was noting how vibrant the trees and road and sky were, I don't think I could have painted them more vividly than they actually were. Super! Anyhow, they are also demining Juba road and for safety reasons they close off the road from anywhere from 20 to 45 minutes at a time. I was thankful I had my sketchbook as we sat alongside the hot road that day. I think it was about 100 degrees give or take. I'm thankful for the deminers, it's really nice to know that you're not going to be driving along and see a land mine explode; it's worth the wait.

Saturday morning we got in the car and did it all over again! This time we had a lovely Bible study with the women. We started on the first day of creation with "let their be light". It was a great study. Part way through the women thought of a song about God's light in Arabic and we had a spontaneous song and dance time! Plus I can make the women laugh, it's great! I am so encouraged by the women's desire to learn about God, to dig into the Bible- As we were leaving some of the women were saying that they are getting old but they are finally understanding. It just touched my heart. They really are amazing women and I can't wait to see how God continues to form and shape them.

The kids are a lot of fun as well. Christine had to drop a few things off in the clinic so I was standing in the shade with the women. It only took a few seconds of playing with a small boy for the rest of the children to come running! With in seconds, it seemed, they began singing and playing the drums; it really was amazing! I got down on my knees and attempted to play the drums as well which provided comical relief to the kids! On the way home Christine and I bought mangoes and chipote and eggs, what a feast! I spent the rest of the afternoon in the shade of our compounds mango tree; hoping a mango wouldn't fall on me but really not caring too much. The breeze combined with the shade made it about 15 degrees cooler than anywhere else on the compound!

I've had a chance to get to know the team from NADUS (www.nadusfilms.com) a bit--they're a neat group of guys who are working on a documentary of Southern Sudan not to mention several other projects like water purification- They've been setting up a demo water purification system and hope to have one ready and in Lora by the end of the week!

Yesterdays church service was amazing. The David's Kings Choir(the mens choir) sang- And you could feel God's presence so strongly in the church- People got up and danced; it was contagious! Bishop preached and as usual I took notes; he has a lot of wisdom. We took communion at the end of the service; my first communion in Sudan (after all the time I've spent here it suprises me!)-The bread was a cookie similar to an animal cracker...and the wine, well, it certainly wasn't grape juice, it had a bite to it that made my eyes get big! Oh the way from church the kids taught me one of their dances; the 2 minute walk from church took about 15 minutes but we all laughed and danced with out a care in the world!

I'm still waiting to see how things will unfold here-- I've been told that the tent for Lora is BIG! It's supposedly about the size of a room so I'll be able to have a real bed! Nothing is settled yet, there's still a lot to take care of here which is great-- I know that God has an amazing plan! :)

Oh yes!!! the books have arrived!! and from what i can tell from a quick glance they all made it! I can't wait to start organizing! Maybe Wednesday! Today I'm illustrating Adam and Eve, planning tomorrows women's Bible lesson for Yei (we're studying Isaac blessing Jacob -Genesis 27 and I think I'm going to make the women act it out!), etc... I'm so thankful to see all that God's doing here!

Oh yes, a correction from the last blog...the coffee is on the Sudan's Kids blog (www.sudanskids.blogspot.com)... drink up!

Keep on keepin' on!
Much love,
Robin

Wednesday, April 02, 2008

Wonderful Wednesday!

A few things....

It was a wonderful Bible study yesterday with the women! I got into the room early and they were looking at the English portion of their song books...and we sang and sang and sang... so fun! The lesson went well, they even understood my English (they're now used to the German pronunciation) and we learned that it's not really a good idea to sell your birthright for beans... it seems so silly, but don't we all do that in one way or another? Give up the important promises, blessings of Christ for something immediate, not as good, and temporary... it was a great reminder. We prayed over Sudan and families and played musical chairs...well, sort of.... going with the bean theme from the lesson we played musical beans... We were all laughing very very hard!

Do you love coffee? Do wish you could help orphans? Guess what you can! And all from the comfort of your own home... amazing... Check out the link on the side to His Voice for Sudan and check out the coffee program... check it out... you can help orphans with their schooling simply by drinking coffee... I'll let His Voice give you the full idea!

I had a great visit with Pastor Jackson and his family yesterday evening, sipping tea under a mango tree, and just listening to his heart for Sudan. He asked me to ask for people to really be praying for Sudan, for ministry here, for families... I'll try and summarize it all as best I can sometime soon! I'm trying to figure out how to put an hours worth of prayer requests and hopes into a few sentences, it's not easy. Just know that your prayers are so important. God listens, God moves, it always blows me away how much He does, wow...

It now seems I'll go to Lura tomorrow but also come back again so we can gather a few things... like a bed! What a good idea... if I'm going to sleep in a tent the size of a hut it might be nice to not sleep on the ground! Pastor Jackson will come with me and introduce me to the women and children, Christine will teach a Bible lesson, and I'll get to know people and help find a good place for the tent! wowie! :)

Ok, it's time to get a few more illustrations done...
First my web browser decided to show up in German, now the blog is in Dutch!!!

Cheers!
Blessings!
Robin

Monday, March 31, 2008

Howdy all!!!

Let’s start off with this point: If Scarlett O’Hara can do it so can I! Ok, so I didn’t exactly make a dress out of the curtains from my room but I did find creative uses for a pillowcase that died while on my way to Sudan. I loved this pillow case because it was a world traveler! It’s been to three continents! On Saturday equipped with scissors, a needle and thread I went to work. First I made a head scarf; you can never have too many here when you’re putting your hair up in a ponytail daily. Secondly, I made a sleeve for my travel mug. I discovered the other day that it’s great for keeping your tea hot but is simultaneously too hot to hold! Since you can’t pop over to your local Starbucks for a cup holder it seemed like a good idea. Anyhow, I’m proud! 

Speaking of Starbucks, Yei now has a coffee shop. In a land of mud huts, and cement block buildings there a place to get an espresso drink, amazing… I can’t wait to try it!

It’s been wonderful to be here and reconnect with people. I keep finding people I haven’t seen yet and it just makes me smile. Isaac, the orphan that Megan and I took to Kenya for surgery on my last trip, found me on Sunday and that made my day. He was off to go fishing with friends so I’m anxious to find out all that’s actually been going on in his life since I left in October. I’ve missed that boy.

I’ve also been making new friends; we went over and played volleyball at Samaritan’s Purse on Saturday and even played a few rounds Kawajas (white people) verses Sudanese. So much fun! Sunday I made my way across town to the English speaking Bible study and met some new people (like the motorbike riding nun) and reacquainted myself with some of the other local missionaries I’d met on the last few trips. It was a great time of fellowship and it is so encouraging to lift each other up in prayer.

Christine, one of the German missionaries, and I are working on the women’s Bible study. Last week we talked about intercession with the women and they want to pray for Sudan. They’re praying for peace in Sudan between people and also with God; for the end of tribalism; and no more envy among leaders in government, churches, and families. These women are amazing. This afternoon, I’m teaching on Esau selling Jacob his birthright (Genesis 25:29-34) and am trying to find a game that will fit!

Christine has been giving the women a packet going over what they’re learning complete with pictures. I’ve spent the last few days illustrating the Bible stories for the packets. Hopefully I’ll be able to load one of these onto the blog today! We’re moving slowely through the Old Testament and I’m five illustrations away from being done with the story of Jacob. Our new project is making an illustrated Bible to give to families; I can’t tell you how hyped I am for this project!

At some point I’ll organize the books EPC already has and when the rest of the books make it, I’ll add those in! A slow boat to China? No, a slow lorry from Kampala!

The current plan is still to go to Lura on Thursday—I’ll be prepared to stay but also come back. It might take some time to find a good place to pitch the tent; since the rains keep threatening to come it’s important. Potentially I’ll bounce back and forth between Lura and Yei helping out equally in both places. It’s still a mystery but I know that there are a lot of great possibilities and I’m really looking forward to seeing how it all continues to unfold. It will be good!

Dinner last night was chipote and beans; I couldn’t be happier!!!

My web browser changed itself from English to German; at least I have lots of translators here at EPC!

There are these flying ants around right now and wiggle their way through the mosquito nets…I hear they’d make a great midnight snack; or even better fried or in a cheese sauce over noodles! Any takers?!

Peace!
Blessings!!
God IS GOOD!!!!
Robin

Thursday, March 27, 2008

Greetings from Yei!

It's good to FINALLY be here! I'm pleased to say the books all made it safely and will be slowly making their way up to Sudan! I wish you all could have seen ALL the bags (4 big bags of book, one big bag of mine, my carry-on suitcase, a laptop case, and a pillow) precariously perched on the luggage trolley in Entebbe- It was a hoot! Plus I couldn't see where I was going or stop going for that matter. I'm incredibly thankful no one got hurt! I'm so blessed that my travels went so smoothly; and I even got the ice cream on the KLM flight that I loved way back when I went to South Africa! Oh the little joys-- Most everything I brought made it-- My bag had been searched and they cut the international locks off--so somewhere on the way someone helped themselves to some of my vitamins--*Sigh* :) who knew :) Other than that everything made it! Hurray!!!

I met a mission team from England going to Uganda on my flight to Entebbe. We were all staying at the same hotel and when they picked us up each of them had 2 big bags each—did I mention there were five of them? And I had my bag plus four big bags of books! That’s not adding the hand luggage we each had! We were packed in the shuttle like sardines. That’s one memory I’ll never forget! It was wonderful to get to know the team from England we had a chance to sit down and share what God is doing! It was a highly memorable night in general. There was a fierce storm; heavy rain, thunder and lightning, the works! The electricity went in and out frequently. As exhausted as I was it shouldn’t have mattered; after all who needs power when you’re asleep?! Here was the problem, every time the power went back on ALL the phones in the hotel rang in chorus! And that might be every five to twenty minutes! I was thankful for a peaceful sleep last night in Yei.

It's rainy season and my flight from Entebbe to Yei was a wee bit bumpy! I wasn't going anywhere however--I had my laptop bag at my feet and my carry-on suitcase and pillow stacked up on my lap... it was cozy...and heavy.

So now I’m just settling in to life…greeting friends, getting rest, and beginning to figure out the months ahead! I’ll be in Yei until at least next Thursday. Once I’m in Lura (at the Orphanage) I’ll be creatively updating the blog. I’ve arranged to send my typed blog in with one of the missionaries who will come every week and she can e-mail it to others to set up. Amazing!

At one point on my journey I realized that traveling to Africa now feels normal. It almost made my laugh out loud! I never would have imagined that in years past! It is so wonderful to be “home” here in Yei. My cheeks hurt from smiling yesterday and I can bet today will be the same! I’m so excited to see what God will do!!!


More soon! Be blessed today!!!
Love y’all!!!
Robin

Monday, March 24, 2008



Hello friends!

I'm sitting down to write as I get the final details ready to leave for Sudan again. It's really the eleventh hour;I'm leaving first thing in the morning (Tuesday, March 25th) and by the time many of you read this I'll already be settling into life in Sudan.

One of the projects I've been working on is a church library for EPC (the Evangelical Presbyterian Church in Sudan). On my first trip to Yei I read one book, other than my Bible, the entire trip. I practically knew it from cover to cover! I relied on family and friends to e-mail me bits and pieces of information from different books and study guides to help me teach! After waiting patiently for the e-mail to open I madly scribbled it in my notebook (I was paying by the minute for Internet on that trip!). It gave me a vision for a resource library for the local church so that pastors and missionaries could come study. I thought I'd start by taking a few books over at a time while I worked out all the details. I sent out a handful of e-mails and suddenly there were boxes and boxes of books at my door! (Thank you Youth Specialties, Focus on the Family, and many friends!) I'm taking four huge bags (70 pounds each!) with me....A total of 350 books! I feel so blessed! I know that EPC is also thrilled to have the resources they haven't had access too! I can't wait to see how the library grows and forms over time. I'm also dreaming about have a teachers mission to help teach ESL so that more people in Sudan can learn from the resources.

I've been asked if I would help at the Lura orphanage which is an hours drive outside of Yei. All I know is that I'm living in a tent and doing something with the widows and orphans. The last time I saw the orphanage site it had over 5 foot high grass! It's going to be a huge adventure! Yes, there are a lot of "unknowns" as I start out-- it's not a set plan like the last trip when we took Isaac for surgery in Kenya--but I trust the Lord's plan and I'm excited. I also know it has the greatest need for help of all EPC's ministries. I have many questions and I can't wait to share what my tent will be like, is there a roof on the latrine, will I pump my own water, what I'll be doing, what each day holds, and on and on. I do know that the orphanage is at the base of a mountain; lovely!

Please join in this adventure with me! I'll be posting on my blog as often as I can and I would love your prayers as I go out!

Much love to you all!
"See" you in Sudan!
Love,
Robin

Thursday, February 21, 2008

Getting Ready for the NEXT Adventure!!!

Hello friends!

As I'm getting ready to head off, yet again, I thought you might enjoy seeing (or seeing again) some of the videos from the last trip! I had updated and posted these on the His Voice for Sudan's kids blog (www.sudanskids.blogspot.com). Feel free to check that blog for more stories from my August through October trip! I'm so excited and curious to see what God will do on this next season in Yei. There are many possibilities from training Sunday School Teachers, working with kids, teaching in the women's ministries, painting, and who knows what else! I can't wait to see how it unfolds! More soon!

In Christ,
Robin