Bush's Journey

Leaving Our Nets Behind

2011-08-28T16:54:00.002-04:00

Our blog has moved. Come and visit us at http://leavingournetsbehind.com/ or you can click HERE!

We thought we would celebrate this grand opening by showing a video of our interns celebrating their last night together with us in Mozambique. You can watch the video at our new blog site. We will no longer be posting here.

"Leaving our nets behind" is the theme of our lives. Thank you for supporting us as we leave our nets behind each day and follow Jesus. Together we can awaken and enable others to serve the poor.

Intern update

2011-08-07T01:53:00.003-04:00

Check out the latest stories from our interns by clicking here. Powerful stories about life and death. Your support allows us to awaken and enable interns to use their gifts to serve here in Dondo, Mozambique. These are your stories. Thank you for your monthly financial support and prayers.

I will be posting about the transition that our interns are making as they adjust to life back in the States later this week.

Google

2011-08-04T01:44:00.003-04:00

Google is taking over the world! At least part of the world :) We have not had access to our blog site for the past few weeks. It looks like we have it figured out and will be posting again soon.

All the interns have made it back to the States and we are busy closing the house down before Christa and the kids leave on August 10th to return to the States. Todd will be staying a couple of weeks later to greet the team from Greece, NY.

Interns in Action

2011-07-11T01:11:00.002-04:00

Read about what our interns have been doing and how their lives have been impacted by clicking here and reading the Interns in Action blog. There are two new powerful posts about "Feet" and "Joel's Story." I have also included the link below. Thank you for joining us on the journey as interns use their gifts and talents to serve.

http://www.childrensrelief.org/internsinaction/

Pancakes

2011-07-09T01:00:00.003-04:00

Ava and Aidan have each had malaria the past two weeks. We are thankful that they knew right away and we started the medicine immediately. Ava was back to her normal self within hours. It took Aidan a couple of days to recover but he is back on his feet and causing trouble (just like his dad.)

The interns are in the middle of building a playground at El Shaddai (our primary school) for 400 students. The reality of returning to the States is setting in for many of them. It has been a blessing to work alongside these servants and watch as God changes their lives and ours.

Thank you for your continued financial support and prayers. You are a part of this work.

Below is a fun video of Aidan and Ava making pancakes with two of the interns, Daniel and Braxton. Enjoy the video, we enjoyed the pancakes.

Nutrition Video

2011-06-24T01:13:00.002-04:00

Here is a video of Kaitlyn, one of our interns, serving at the Tessa Grace Nutrition Center. She teaches health promotion, shares God's Word, prays with the families, and encourages them. Your support allows us to host interns who are making a difference. Thanks.

Intern Blog

2011-06-07T15:16:00.002-04:00

Click here to read the "Interns In Action" blog. We currently are serving with 9 interns in Mozambique and 1 intern in India. Check out their stories from the field by clicking here. Thank you for your support. It allows us to equip young people to serve the poor around the world.

Welcome to Mozambique

2011-06-02T15:46:00.002-04:00

9 interns arrived today in Dondo, Mozambique and were greeted at the intern house by some of the translators. Here is a video of them singing a song together called, "Akuna."

Outside

2011-05-31T14:28:00.005-04:00

Ava and Aidan love to play outside in the sand in Mozambique. Aidan enjoys soccer with some of the kids in the neighborhood and Ava enjoys playing with "homemade" trucks that the Mozambican kids make. They have met a few new friends already this year. We look forward to getting to know them.

Sunday

2011-05-15T11:39:00.006-04:00

We celebrated "father's day" at church this morning. The entire month of May is dedicated to "families." All 30 fathers sat in the chairs on the left side of the church in the front. As the service began there were empty seats all around. By the third song only a few seats remained. As the preaching started the overflow crowd was standing outside the doors and windows. There was no more room inside. At the close of the three hour service they had all the dads come up on the stage and the youth prayed over us. The teens sang and danced, shared poems, and performed skits. The preaching was direct and clear. What a great morning!

"The mechanic has arrived!" The only country in the world I even open the hood of a car is Mozambique. Just a few houses from mine sat three, yes, three vehicles that would not start at Kathy and Val's house. Car #1 - forget about it, for now. Car #2, battery is dead, and exhaust system needs replacing. Car #3 both batteries dead. We give it our best shot and after a few moments of laughter it is time for lunch. All three cars still dead lol. There is always tomorrow.

It is now time to go and speak with the handball team. What a great group. We talk about the story in 2Samuel 23: 20-23. After an hour of teaching, sharing, discussion, and questions, we close in prayer. We are off to a good start as we will spend the next 4 months on leadership.

What a great afternoon!

The sun has set. I am headed back to church. It is going to be a good night.

Welcome back song

2011-05-08T14:31:00.004-04:00

Some of the guys from the handball team stopped at the house to welcome me back to Dondo. Before they left they sang a new song they have been learning in English. I am looking forward to getting to know each of these young men better this year as I and some of the interns will be doing a 4 month series on leadership.

Home in Dondo

2011-05-08T09:18:00.005-04:00

Looking out the window of the small plane I could see large pockets upon pockets of water. The rainy season that produced flooding was still evident. The plane landed and once again my feet were on Mozambican ground. Greetings to those who work at the airport were met with smiles and questions of when Christa and the kids would be arriving. All my luggage arrived with everything inside.

Ercylio met me just outside of customs with a big hug and welcome. It was good to see him doing well. We loaded the bags and headed to the beach for some lunch. We were joined later on by Kathy and Val dear friends and co-workers.

After lunch we took a quick trip into the city of Beira and headed for home to Dondo. House #20. The unpacking began and then over to Phil and Pam's home for dinner. They have a blog that shares powerful stories of life here in Mozambique. You can click here and check it out.

Jet lag had caught up with me and it was time for bed. Would I sleep through the night or would I be wide awake at 2AM because of jet lag? I slept from 9PM until 8:30AM!!!! Nice.

It is good to be home in Dondo. It will be even better as Christa and the kids arrive and then the interns. I love this journey. Thank you for being a part of it with us.

Joey's Birthday

2011-05-02T00:25:00.002-04:00

We went to a birthday party for Joey, a friend and classmate of the kids. Here are a couple of videos. Enjoy!

Bunny Cake

2011-04-30T15:25:00.004-04:00

Making a bunny cake at Cory and Shanna's house on Easter.

German/Mozambican/American

2011-04-25T21:55:00.002-04:00

Aidan and Ercylio playing a "German" game called "Obstgarten" in our home in Mozambique.

World Malaria Day

2011-04-25T12:29:00.009-04:00

Living in Mozambique, Africa has allowed me to see the devastation and death that malaria brings to the most vulnerable. Today is "World Malaria Day." Take a moment and check this site out. Simply click here. Thanks.

Kids

2011-04-24T21:09:00.004-04:00

Cooking and photos with/by Shanna Hunneyman.

Chores in Mozambique

2011-04-22T21:34:00.001-04:00

Puppet Time in Moz

2011-04-21T21:56:00.002-04:00

Sunsets in Mozambique

2011-04-20T21:46:00.002-04:00

Game Time in Moz

2011-04-19T16:40:00.001-04:00

Bats in Mozambique

2011-04-18T20:01:00.003-04:00

Click on the image for a larger picture.

Teresa of Avila

2011-04-15T20:26:00.003-04:00

Christ has no body now on earth but yours;

Yours are the only hands with which He can do His work.

Yours are the only feet with which He can go about the world;

Yours are the only eyes through which His compassion can shine forth upon a troubled world.

Christ has no body on earth but yours.

~Teresa of Avila~

Help Japan

2011-03-21T17:40:00.006-04:00

This earthquake hit close to home for us at Children’s Relief International. Our Board Chairman, Bill Cook, currently works in Tokyo. We asked, How can we help?
Under Bill’s lead we have a matching donation opportunity. A donor will match gifts up to $5000. His employer will then match them up to $10,000. $1 becomes $4 and $5,000 becomes $20,000.
100% of the funds donated to this cause will go to the areas most in need through Tokyo Baptist Church and the Red Cross.

Click HERE to learn more!

Veggies

2011-03-14T20:54:00.003-04:00

Click on picture to view larger picture

911

2011-03-03T13:01:00.000-05:00

Water Wells in India

2011-02-28T17:30:00.001-05:00

Water Wells: Deep Forest Community from Children's Relief International on Vimeo.

Mozambique National Leaders

2011-02-21T21:44:00.004-05:00

Meet Pastor Jeronimo Cessito and his wife Noemia. They have a vision to see their community transformed from the darkness of the witch-doctors to the light of Jesus. We serve with them to help their vision become reality.

El Shaddai primary school in Mozambique

2011-02-12T21:23:00.005-05:00

Eyes of Mozambique

2011-02-11T19:17:00.002-05:00

Rajah Children's Home

2011-01-25T01:09:00.004-05:00

For 40 kids this is a place of hope and a future.

Members of the Dalit or “untouchable” caste usually work as manual laborers cleaning streets, bathrooms and sewers. Hindus believe that this kind of work pollutes the person, so Dalits are often ostracized in the community. In the past they were not allowed to enter a temple or go to school. Although this treatment is no longer constitutional, many Dalits still experience extreme prejudice, especially those living in rural areas.

Vimal Prasad is a member of the Dalit caste. Before his father died of tuberculosis Vimal worked alongside him in the fields. His mother is alive and works cleaning houses.

Four years ago, the Rajah Children’s Home pulled Vimal out of the fields and into our home where he learned about Jesus and was loved by those around him. Those who know him describe him as “a natural leader and a kind-hearted kid.” Now he has graduated the 10th grade.

After scoring well on a written exam Vimal secured a government job in the Irrigation department! His starting salary is equivalent to $100 per month, and he has opportunity to advance as he gains experience. This job is the realization of a dream, not only for Vimal and his widowed mother, but for CRI as well.

His mother says, “I always dreamed that Vimal would get settled and be able to look after me when I am old, but it was always just a dream. Now my dream has come true. Our god is an awesome God.”

Mudpaths in Kolkata

2011-01-23T10:14:00.005-05:00

Our partner at this project is Smriti Maity. For ten years she conducted a ministry among the sex trade workers of the Sonigattchi district. Now she has turned her attention to children living in these mud paths.

“I minister here in Kolkata to children who are in great need. I chose their villages because there was no Christian witness in them. My first step was to take prayer walks among the homes and make friends. Where I was allowed inside, I prayed for the sick and invited the children to come for a children’s club. I run my ministry according to two “Be’s.” Be Christ centered. Be child centered. I will teach our children a new way, a clean path and a new King. I build them for the future they must face in this great city.”

Smriti and a little one.

Mudpaths tutoring/bible study center. Smriti rents this shack from a local land lord.

Some of the children that attend the program.

Grey water. Doing chores in the muck. Yuck.

How can they be so bright despite the dark environment they must live in?

Kolkata

2011-01-21T20:47:00.002-05:00

My mind continues to process all that I have heard, smelled, looked at, tasted, and touched here in Kolkata. It is a dark place where, Smriti, a national leader, is making a difference. Jason, another team member, wrote the following of our first day:

We arrived in Kolkata today. I’d forgotten how hard of a place this city is. Hard on the body with all the stopping and going and stress from feeling like you are going to be in an accident for sure - it’s just a matter of time! Traffic is horrible; the smog staggering. Hard on the eyes and mind as I struggle to understand how so many can be so poor and survive in such a dirty, difficult town. Hard on the soul as I see temples and gods towering over everything - signs. billboards and and plastered on its walls.

I wouldn’t want to live here. It’s not a place for the soft and impatient - and I am both.

Daniel and Carl after our long drive from the airport to the hotel.

Smriti met us at the hotel and we had a nice lunch before heading to the Kali district (the Kali temple is there. It is surrounded by a rather large red light district.) We visited the temple but did not get to see the god/idol. I am ok with that. I felt like throwing up as soon as I entered the place. Dark. Nasty. A man insisted on showing us around - barefoot. Yes, barefoot. Ugh. He showed us the room where the god lives. The doors were closed but a dozen people were worshiping and being blessed by priests. He showed us the Blessed Kitchen were priests cook food to feed the poor in the name of Kail. He showed us the alters where goats and animals are sacrificed every morning in worship of Kali. It was straight out of the OT. Then he took us to the baptism pool were people wash before the go see the god. The man wanted us to give a flower offering to the idol that sat at the edge of the pool. Earlier he tried to bless us with some orange powder that was all over the door to Kail’s room. It was an awkward and tense moment as he insisted we do so. I told him our faith wouldn’t allow it. Frustrated he blessed us instead - god bless you - he said. I countered his hope with a prayer of protection. It was clear we were not in friendly territory. My stomach ache left after we left the temple. I’d rather not walk bare foot in the shadow of a god like Kali again! I don’t plan on ever going back if I don’t have to.

Picture of some of the goods sold to offer to the god Kali.

A few of the street kids that live near the temple.

Down the road a few yards the red light district begins. Smriti took us down some narrow walkways to visit the location she hopes to hold activities and games + bible study for the kids. It was a small court yard of sorts.

Courtyard where child ministry will take place.

Back on the main street there are ladies and children standing just off the road in alley ways. Smriti worked in this district about 5 years ago so many teen aged children and mothers ran up to us to greet her. That was fun to see. Smriti is a grandma of sorts to many a child in that area. The eyes of those kids said it all - they love Smriti.

Video clip of Smriti with one of the girls she taught as an infant.

smriti-laugh

It was about 10min into our walk that we watched a man fall the ground, seemingly dead. Smriti didn’t see this as she was talking to her friends. The four of watched the dead man lay there for at least 5 min. In that time probably 50 people walked by the man but none of them did anything. Cars from both directions pulled up to him and rather than get out to help - honked and honked and honked. Finally a by standard ran out and pulled the man to the side of the road. That was a sight I suspect I’ll ever see again. Sad and troubling.

A little while later as Smriti was visiting with some other old friends a group of very angry ladies walked up to us. They wanted to know why were were taking pictures. Smriti told them we were taking picture of her and her friends and not to worry about it. The conversation soon turned into yelling on the part of the ladies. Smriti held her ground. She has no fear. The crowd got bigger and fear began to takes it grip. What happens if these ladies attack Smriti? Or try to take Daniels camera, or my camera?

It wasn’t a good situation and I tried to get Smriti to follow me out of the alley. No luck . After getting the guys out I went back and insisted we leave.

Picture of the narrow walk way in Kali red light district.

Once back on the main street Smriti explained that the ladies were pimps who were angry that we were taking pictures of their girls. They didn’t want us exploiting them like the film “Born in the Brothel” had in a red light district down the road. Smriti isn’t one to back down so she had told them to back off and relax. Those old cows were not going to back off. No way!

I was able to get her to walk away and “call it a day” with a direct - Smriti, we need to leave - now! As we headed back to the car I asked her what she was talking to the girls about before the ladies showed up. She shared that the girls were saying they still had the bibles she had given them “all those years ago”. They were interested in Jesus and asking her questions. It was then that the “cow” ladies showed up. Odd? Maybe not?

One of the things I walked away feeling was the Kali district is a dangerous and difficult place. The people are hurting and hungry. The principalities and powers that claim that land are strong. Scary strong, not ones to hesitate at nudging their followers to show up in an angry mob and kick you out of their territory.

Smriti wants to help the children of prostitutes that stand in the shadow of a god that looks like it can eat your soul. She wants to give hope to children who are raised to worship this beast. What is amazing to me is that this little lady is up for the challenge. I’ve called Smriti- Mighty Mouse- for a few years now. She is truly as fearless as they come. A warrior saint. She works in one of the hardest, darkest places I’ve ever experienced. She does it alone. Yet she does it with a laugh that cracks shadows and breaks through bondage. Its a laugh that comes from being entirely dependent on Christ. An awesome sound.

Tomorrow we head to her other ministry - Mudpaths- which is on the outskirts of the city. I’m not sure what tomorrow journey will bring but I do know I am looking forward to hearing Smriti’s wonderful laughter!

I am thankful for your prayers. We were kept safe today as we walked in the shadow of a god, as a man fell dead just a few yards from us, as a crowd arrived to see us unravel. Thank you for your prayers. They are making a difference.

Please continue to pray for us.

Noise

2011-01-18T06:01:00.003-05:00

The horn is honking every 5 seconds. Another person, another car, another cow, another something is in the way. As we drive to the home of John and Maria Lawrance in Ranchi, India, I am surrounded by the poverty on the road. My eyes see kids living in dirt and lacking food, water and basic education. My ears hear the sounds of the street, the groans of those living without hope. I am here in this place as my heart is awakened to the great need around me. I have a responsibility and must not let the noise of my life drown out the cry for help.

As I sit in the home of John and Maria they share their vision of starting a church plant, opening a children's home, and training others to serve. They have a vision, a plan, and are taking action to help the forgotten and abandoned of this world. Let us do our part and join with them in this good and worthy work. I trust the noise of the day will be silenced and we might hear the invitation to come and serve alongside.

I got it, I got it!

2011-01-15T22:54:00.000-05:00

Three Wooden Crosses

2011-01-06T10:22:00.002-05:00

This is one of my favorite songs. I trust the lyrics will encourage your heart and that together we might share Jesus with others today.

A farmer and a teacher, a hooker and a preacher
Ridin' on a midnight bus bound for Mexico
One was headin' for vacation, one for higher education
And two of them were searchin' for lost souls

That driver never ever saw the stop sign
And 18 wheelers can't stop on a dime

There are three wooden crosses on the right side of the highway
Why there's not four of them Heaven only knows
I guess it's not what you take when you leave this world behind you
It's what you leave behind you when you go

That farmer left a harvest, a home and 80 acres
The faith and love for growin' things in his young son's heart
And that teacher left her wisdom in the minds of lots of children
Did her best to give 'em all a better start

And that preacher whispered, "Can't you see the promised land?"
As he lay his blood stained Bible in that hooker's hand

There are three wooden crosses on the right side of the highway
Why there's not four of them Heaven only knows
I guess it's not what you take when you leave this world behind you
It's what you leave behind you when you go

That's the story that our preacher told last Sunday
As he held that blood stained Bible up for all of us to see
He said, "Bless the farmer and the teacher and the preacher
who gave this Bible to my momma who read it to me"

There are three wooden crosses on the right side of the highway
Why there's not four of them now I guess we know
It's not what you take when you leave this world behind you
It's what you leave behind you when you go

There are three wooden crosses on the right side of the highway

Free to serve

2011-01-04T20:53:00.003-05:00

I got into my car last night and started the 4 hour trip home. I had just shared about the internship program with a community of young adults. As I was traveling on the highway tears began to roll down my cheeks. My heart was full and I was encouraged because of a conversation after the meeting.

Last year I met a young married couple in this group that was facing financial challenges, looking for full time work, and living at home with his parents. They shared their desire to serve full time in ministry one day but could not see that occurring with the amount of student loans that needed to be paid off. I walked away last year praising God for this couple and praying that they would do what it takes to be free to serve.

They both now have full time jobs. They choose to live with his parents so they can be debt free faster. They have completely paid off one loan. They are kicking debt in the face!

I am sure there are days, weeks, or even months they want to give up, get their own place, and not be tied to a budget. Keep on, keeping on. Fight the good fight. Christa and I know what is like to finally be free. It is worth it!

Thank you for encouraging me with your story.

Little Lamb Christmas Program

2010-12-22T11:20:00.000-05:00

Invite

2010-12-07T14:39:00.004-05:00

Here is a portion of an email inviting me to speak from the point person of a college age/young adult group in a church near NYC.

"The group wants you – and they want you to compellingly tell them about what you do, what the mission you’re on tries to accomplish and what we can do both indirectly and directly to help. In other words, come loaded. They really want to get inside what you do."

I love the passion and heartbeat of this invitation. This group is impacting the world and I look forward to inviting them to join us in serving the poor.

T-SHIRT

2010-12-02T13:03:00.006-05:00

Design a T-SHIRT and help children. Click on the image below for a larger picture.

Temporary Home

2010-11-04T12:51:00.002-04:00

Legacy

2010-11-02T21:26:00.002-04:00

Christa and I spent a couple of hours with a special friend today. The day will come when she will hear the words, "well done" and that will be reward enough for this person. As I was praying for her after our meeting I couldn't help but think of the legacy she will leave behind. Countless people are being encouraged and feel like they matter because she takes the time to invest in their lives. She is using her talents and gifts for God and simply does what she can with what she has. Lives have been changed literally around the world because God is using her in ways that I cannot fully understand. She tells it how it is and makes no excuses. Her heart is tender and her love for God shines. She does not pretend to have all the answers or to have "figured it out." Her legacy will be far reaching and deep. I am better for knowing her.

Apology

2010-10-28T22:02:00.001-04:00

To my brothers and sisters in developing countries:

While I was deciding which oat bran cereal to eat this morning, you were searching the ground for leftover grains from the passing wheat truck…

While I was choosing between diet and regular soda, your parched lips were yearning for a sip of clean water…

While I scanned the ads for a bargain on an extra piece of clothing, you woke up and put on the same shirt and pants that you have worn for many months.

While I built a fourteen-room house for the three of us, your family of ten found shelter in a one-room hut…

My brothers and sisters, forgive me for my arrogance and my indifference. Forgive me for my greed of always wanting newer, bigger, and better things. Forgive me for not doing my part to change the unjust systems that keep you suffering and impoverished. I offer you my promise to become more aware of your situation and to change my lifestyle as I work for the transformation of our world.

“Apology to My Brothers and Sisters in Developing Countries” taken from out of the ordinary: prayers, poems, and reflections for every season, by Joyce Rupp Copyright 2000.

Baby Pictures

2010-10-04T22:46:00.019-04:00

"Aidan, please be quiet!"

"What is Ava giggling about?"

Aidan was too tired for pictures.

"What were our parents thinking?"

Process

2010-09-30T20:11:00.004-04:00

The process to be an intern with the Real Life program in Mozambique is all about building relationship. We want the applicant to get to know us and Children's Relief International and we want to get to know them. Many emails, phone calls, and visits occur during this process.

Here is the general flow:

Initial contact
Exchange of emails
Phone calls
Application packet
Review application
Contact mentor/pastor
Interview
Screen applicant
Applicant notified of decision

Support Discovery begins
Training follows

If you know a college age student who would be interested in the Real Life program have them contact me at todd@childrensrelief.org

444

2010-09-28T21:56:00.002-04:00

4 months (May - August) in Mozambique.

4 months (September - December) in the States recruiting interns.

4 months (January - April) in the States training interns.

This is our schedule. It is easy to remember.

School

2010-09-28T12:25:00.003-04:00

Here is a video of what we are learning.

New Shoes

2010-09-04T07:43:00.001-04:00

I have never been to this church but what a great example of serving the community. Click the link for the story.

http://www.syracuse.com/news/index.ssf/2010/09/congregation_from_clay_donates.html

2011 Real Life Internship Program

2010-08-29T14:17:00.003-04:00

Recruiting has started for the 2011 Real Life Internship Program in Mozambique. Watch the video and email intern@childrensrelief.org for more info.

Urgent

2010-08-19T12:51:00.003-04:00

This was on one of the blogs that I read. "The ongoing adventures of ASBO Jesus"

Wow!

2010-08-08T08:51:00.000-04:00

Intern Goodbye

2010-07-30T15:16:00.003-04:00

It is so hard to believe that 2 months with our interns has gone by already. What an amazing time to see them wrestle with poverty, AIDS, their own theology and serve God and His people. Wednesday night we did a goodbye time with some translators, soda, cake & some really awesome quesidillas. We spent the night encouraging the interns, praying and singing. As a mom it was amazing to see Ava singing her heart out singing songs in Sena & Portuguese. These are the things that my kids get to do as third culture kids. They are not Mozambican and they are not fully American yet they get to sit with people from both cultures and sing songs in a tribal language. Jesus is good/ Jesu nguadiddi!

Malaria

2010-07-29T14:41:00.003-04:00

One of my biggest fears in taking our children to Mozambique has been malaria. I have done everything humanly possible to prevent them from getting bit by mosquitoes, taking meds, wearing DEET, keeping them home at night, sleeping with a net, etc. And last week my fear came true. Aidan had been just a bit off with a little fever and diarrhea. As we were in church Sunday morning, I was holding him because he was not feeling well and he told me "Mommy why are all the people moving back and forth, is someone playing a trick". Well that was enough to stop my heart! Knowing that in children especially you do not mess around with malaria we needed to move fast. Val our CRI field nurse, knew we did not have the med at the clinic he needed but contacted someone she knew would know where to get it. And all I can say is the Lord is in everything, our nurse Rue was working at the hospital that is literally next to the church. He had the med and they were able to go get it. Aidan is fine, recovering, still wiped out by the end of the day, appetite not quite back yet but fine. I am so thankful for God's hand of protection and His plan and not mine. He truly can protect my children more than I can. What saddens me is the children that do not have access to medicine, clinics, and nets. Why do my children live in a world where they have access to medicine and state of the art hospitals and others do not? The more time I spend here the more I see and realize that mom's in the world are the same. We are all trying to care for, love and protect our children. It makes me realize all the more how we privileged few have a responsibility to those that are not. Aidan is a gift to Todd and I from God. As Todd likes to say, "God can do what He wants with our children." This scares me sometimes but I know it is right. Let us fight the battle of malaria together and I pray that Aidan would see an end to this disease in his lifetime.

Mutondo Church Plant Video

2010-07-14T16:32:00.002-04:00

Father Son Camping

2010-07-14T10:45:00.002-04:00

This weekend Aidan and I will be going to the bush to visit the Mutondo church plant. We will be traveling with Kathy and Val and a team of teens. I spent last weekend at this church and look forward to the time with Aidan. He and I will be sleeping in the truck, bathing in the river (keeping an eye out for crocodiles) and of course watching out for snakes. I am thinking we might sneak a bag of marshmallows to eat as we gaze at the stars with no electricity for miles and miles. I can't wait to see his face as he sees how bright the stars and moon will be. Fish, mice, and rice will be on the menu. Aidan loves fish (yes, it will be a whole fish, head and all) he eats it like a pro watching out for those bones. He has never had a mouse before - first time for everything.

Christa and Ava will be on an adventure of their own as they help the interns celebrate "a day of Jesus" with our project life team. She will also be taking one of the interns to the airport as his 7 weeks have come to an end serving with us.

I will post a video soon about my trip last week to Mutondo and will post pictures of Aidan later next week and report on his big adventure. Thanks for reading and caring.

Young Adult Retreat

2010-06-30T08:55:00.002-04:00

This past weekend the interns participated in the annual young adult retreat. It was great watching them serve, connect, and step outside of their comfort zones. Here is a highlight video of the weekend.

Joy & Heartaches

2010-06-20T15:40:00.003-04:00

Today was a day of joy and heartache. One of our house staff Maria had a beautiful baby girl about a week ago named Esther. Today was her baby dedication. In Mozambique when a baby is born the baby is either dedicated to a spirit or to Jesus. What a happy day when that dedication is to the Lord. The singing and dancing, praying for the baby and declaring that the devil has lost! And he has and how wonderful to see that family make the decision to do that. The heartache comes when you hear of the drummer in one of our church plants lost his infant last night and the funeral was before the baby dedication. And while we were at the dedication another one of our house staff's niece lost a baby. The joys are joyful and the heartaches are difficult but in the end the devil has lost! There will come a day when the Lord will wipe all those tears and no more starvation, sickness and heartache. Until that day comes we cry, we encourage and we walk this road with our Mozambican brothers and sisters.

Father's Day

2010-06-20T11:14:00.003-04:00

Christa and Ava were in one car taking interns to the main Church as one of them was speaking there this morning. Aidan and I jumped in the truck and headed to one of the Church plants as one of the interns was speaking there as well. The road to this particular Church plant takes it toll both on the vehicle and the people riding in it. At one point I heard the thud of Aidan's head as it smacked against the window.

What a blessing to see Aidan go over to the "kid's section" and join all of the other kids. He played the drums, and shaker, and even when out with the group when it was time for the kids to organize their presentation for the service. Unfortunately he has not been blessed with dancing ability and joined me as the rest of them danced and did a skit. He sat down next to me and began to hold a baby. He gently and carefully held this little one as other groups shared presentations with the Church.

On this Father's day my heart was full as I watched my son worship with those of different color skin. As he tenderly held a baby covered with sores on his head. It was a day full of joy watching my little boy and wondering if one day he will also serve in such a place.

Processing Poverty

2010-06-19T01:47:00.002-04:00

We have been spending time processing poverty with the interns. What happens to a person when they leave their middle class western culture and enter a culture soaking in poverty? Sadness, frustration, and a sense of hopelessness can flood your soul as you come face to face with such destitution. The web of poverty is complex with no easy solutions.

What a blessing it is to see young people wrestling with such a difficult problem. God is challenging their way of life, beliefs, and understanding of Him. It is no longer simply reading a story or seeing a picture of poverty and the effects it has on an entire nation. It is personal. It is looking into the eyes of a baby as the mother finds out the baby is HIV positive. It is walking the dusty roads for miles at a time visiting widows and orphans who have a name. It is about building relationship with others and helping them as they learn new skills and provide for their family. It is learning to enter a new culture, embrace it, and realizing that God is here in Mozambique doing His work and we have the amazing privilege to join Him.

New Friends

2010-06-18T14:23:00.003-04:00

We had lunch out today as a family with a new family. They are a Mennonite couple that are neighbors of ours. They have been here 1 year and have 4 kids. Aidan & Ava had so much fun playing with their kids today as we enjoyed exchanging stories, restaurants and culture. I always enjoy meeting new people and especially hearing what brought them to Mozambique. God is always so good by putting people in our paths. It is so encouraging to see that Jesus is not bound to a single denomination or church. They are doing a good work here. We look forward to going out again with Bruce & Leanne. Who knows maybe next time without kids!

Busy Week!

2010-06-05T14:27:00.003-04:00

Here is a recap of the very busy week!
-Sunday, at church was the 34th anniversary. There was a wonderful service with people from the church plants coming to celebrate with us. Lots of singing and dancing, it was also family day and celebration of marriage. It all ended with lunch and lots of fellowship.
-Monday, prep for the interns. I hammered in mosquito nets and prayed for them and what God was going to do in and through them this summer. They are some awesome students and we are so thankful for them already.
-Tuesday, was Children's Day in Mozambique. Todd and I spent some time before our interns arrived shuttling kids from school to the party. At one point we had 26 three year olds! At the time this was happening the country of Mozambique had a torch riding through Dondo to eventually end up in Maputo. This torch comes through once every 10 years and is supposed to be a sign of unity. Needless to say we were next to the torch stuck in traffic with all the kids.
-Wednesday & Thursday were filled with getting the interns where they need to be and acclimated to the project.
-Friday, the president of CRI and his wife arrived. We are glad to have 10 days with them in country and love their passion and support for missions and Mozambique.
-Saturday, today! The day started with a Green Door dedication. If you want to know more about the Green Door Project head to www.childrensrelief.org or email me. Today was a very special one for me. Back in 2004 on the first trip that I made to Moz we had secret sisters with the ladies of the church here. We prayed for them, encouraged them by doing little things or little gifts. At the end we revealed ourselves at a party. I had a woman named Zita. She is a teacher at the preschool and is married to Pauloino who is the main translator at the church. Ever since 2004 she has been special to me and I love seeing her. Well today Zita & Pauloino received a Green Door House! I felt so blessed to see this amazing gift & blessing. Gracas a Deus!
What a week! What a week of blessings and excitement. I hope that you all had an amazing week. More to come...

HIV +

2010-05-25T12:25:00.002-04:00

I spent the afternoon with a new friend. He speaks a little English and I speak a little Portuguese but communication was not a problem. We shared about our families and life as we went from one store to the next looking for various items. We laughed, shared a Coke, and enjoyed our time together. After 2 and a half hours and 17 different stores we headed for home. We began to pray for each other as the sun was setting on the journey home. My friend is HIV + and has been battling sickness. I began to weep as I prayed for him and realized what a special moment that God had given me to be with him today. He gently reached over and patted my shoulder to assure me that it was going to be okay. I look forward to spending more time with him this year knowing how special that time is with my new friend.

New Generation

2010-05-22T15:15:00.002-04:00

We gathered together tonight for a time of fellowship, prayer, and worship. Mozambicans and Americans side by side to worship our God. As I looked around the room it struck me - this is the time for a new generation. Tonight the "3 Amigos" joined us. Fernando, Little Fernando, and Afonso (there is no "l"). Three young men, all 17, and all in the 10th grade. They will be translating for us this year and joining us on this journey. Their voices will slowly become the voice of the project that the Americans who visit will hear. Mozambicans who were once there age will now train these young men up to be the new generation. I look forward to investing in their lives and having them get to know our family. It is time for the next generation.

Staff Meetings

2010-05-20T15:44:00.002-04:00

7AM staff meetings are quickly becoming a favorite part of my day. Our translators, house staff, CRI staff, and Chico (landscaping engineer) gather to hear from God's Word and sing a couple of songs. What a blessing to hear our staff share a devotional and challenge me in my own life. The first day we were encouraged to "love one another" not just our friends, family, and those who are lovable but our enemies and even other Christians we don't like. Wow, I knew God was going to give opportunity to put this truth into action. I can't say I was faithful at loving at all times but I will continue to work on this as God burned this truth deep within me.
It is also a time to pray for one another as we share our lives together. Of course, we eventually get to the business of the day. What a great way to start each morning.

Schedule

2010-04-26T21:09:00.006-04:00

Our time is coming to a close in the States. Here is our schedule for the next month.

Friday, 30 April - Travel to the Outer Banks
Great time with friends and family as we renew, rest, and refresh.

Sunday, 2 May - Our 7th Wedding Anniversary!!!

Sunday, 9 May - Travel back to NY
We will be back to NY in the afternoon and then I fly out of Syracuse that night for JFK.

Monday, 10 May - Depart JFK for Johannesburg, South Africa.
No stop in Dakar this year - Direct to Joburg (Very excited about this!)

Tuesday, 11 May - Arrive in Joburg and stay at the Marben Manor overnight.
Will meet Kathy and Val for dinner that night. Check out their blogs by clicking on their names.

Wednesday, 12 May - Arrive in Mozambique!

Monday, 17 May - "Clean Water" team arrives from Texas.

Thursday, 20 May - Ava & Aidan finish school

Sunday, 23 May - Christa, the kids, and my Mom drive to JFK.

Monday, 24 May - Christa and the kids depart JFK for Joburg. My Mom flies back to Syracuse.

Tuesday, 25 May - Christa and the kids arrive in Joburg and depart for Mozambique same day.

Tuesday, 1 June - Interns arrive in Mozambique!

MOMS Ministry

2010-04-23T14:53:00.004-04:00

This week as part of the missions conference that we participated in I got to speak to the MOMS ministry that the church has. Now if you know me personally you know that I am not the public speaker in the family, that is Todd's gift and he is great at it! I ask the Lord more and more the more life goes on why do you keep giving me these opportunities, but his only answer to me is to give me more. I am amazed how when the time comes I am not nervous and it is just sharing about some ministries that I am excited about. So Wednesday I got to share with this group, I ended up sharing for 1 1/2 hours and the questions and comments from the ladies were amazing. It was so exciting to hear ladies wanting to hear more about Mozambique and what a blessing those ladies were to me! They asked so many questions that I never got to share the devotional that I had. At the end I shared this statistic about Mozambique and specifically about young girls. In Mozambique, 60% of girls with no schooling are married before age 18 as opposed to 10% who get an education. My heart breaks for these young ladies and I look forward to serving alongside them as we return to Mozambique in the next couple of weeks. I am thankful there will now be even more ladies praying for the project and ministry in Mozambique. I wonder when God will allow me another speaking opportunity? I am looking forward to it - sort of :)

Mission's Conference

2010-04-23T08:48:00.002-04:00

We spent 6 days/nights at a Mission's Conference this past week. What a blessing to share about the people of Mozambique and how we can all be involved in defeating poverty in this world. Christa and I were struck by the passion of this Church and their desire to be informed and involved. I was reminded of the power of sharing a meal in a home and connecting with each others stories. Strangers become friends and encouragement flows as the week goes on. On the last night as we were packing up a young family had brought in boxes and boxes of clothes to send to Mozambique. Those without clothes will now have what we take for granted. Families will be connected by this act of love and Jesus will be glorified. This family is making a difference in the world. Christa and I will continue to pray for this Church as they serve their community and the world.

Why there's a day of silence

2010-04-13T16:22:00.003-04:00

A friend of mine, Cory, posted the following on his blog. It was so good I didn't want to just link to it so I pasted it for you to read below.

i'm pretty far behind on my bible reading plan for this year, but still making progress - which for me is key. anyways, i'm at the part in numbers where moses out of the blue is in a funk, and grabs his stick and starts beating a rock. it's kinda funny when you think about it, and i think we all have been there at times. if we were in his shoes we'd probably want to beat the snot out of a rock too.

for me one of the things that always makes my blood boil is when i myself and others do a lot of "truth-talking" without a lot of "grace-walking". as a church we're wading through some of these waters right now, and all i can say is that it's getting way messier than it needs to.

one specific area where The Church could use a little less truth and a bit more grace is in the area of how she interacts with the LGBT (lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender) community. this friday, thousands of schools across the country will participate in a day of silence... and i have to wonder how much of these "days" have been prompted by christians speaking too much truth without enough grace.

in preparation of the day, here's a fun little exercise that might be worth your while:

1. jot down the names of every person you personally know who currently lives within the LGBT community. again...these are people you personally know, not like "i watched american idol and i know adam lambert".

2. jot down the names of every person you know who is currently considering joining the LGBT community, but maybe not very open about it yet.

3. jot down adjectives that you would use to describe your feelings for them right now as you write down their names.

i have a theory... just a "hypothesis" if you will:

i bet the more names you have down on your paper, the more gentle, loving, and grace-filled your adjectives are.

Baskets and Eggs

2010-04-03T20:51:00.007-04:00

Kids woke up this morning searching for their Easter baskets. It only took about 3 minutes for smiles to appear as they discovered the treasure. Later in the morning we had an Easter egg hunt in the backyard with family.

Good Friday

2010-04-02T10:27:00.000-04:00

Tickets

2010-02-20T21:47:00.005-05:00

We have our tickets for Mozambique! I enjoy sitting in the back of the plane. I always requests seat 75D. As you can see there is no seat in front of me which allows me to stretch my legs and get up without pulling on the seat in front of me. I will be leaving on Monday, May 10.

Christa enjoys sitting towards the front. She will come over with the kids two weeks after I arrive. This allows me time to make sure things are set and makes the transition for the kids easier. They will be sitting in row 49. She is hoping to be bumped to row 3 even if the kids are left in row 49 :)

We still have $2,000 to raise towards the tickets but we are thankful that the majority of the money has come in and that we were able to get them for a great price.

In the comment section let me know where you would want to sit besides business class. Ava has already said she wants to fly the plane. If you click on the image you will see a clearer picture.

Knit Together with Love

2010-02-17T21:21:00.004-05:00

That is the name of the knitting group that is filled with some amazing women. The group, comprised of women from North Syracuse Baptist Church are knitting baby hats for the babies in Mozambique that come to the nutrition program. I got to sit in on their weekly knitting group on Thursday night and share about Mozambique. It was such a blessing. What a joy to hear of all of the projects they are working on for the year. I left there feeling completely blessed to share the evening with ladies who are serving God in their mission field and knit together with love.

Conference Call

2010-02-11T19:41:00.003-05:00

We had our first conference call with the 2010 interns today. What a great team! I am very excited about the journey. I love how people from 5 different States and 2 different countries can begin to connect simply by sharing part of their story. I am very interested in the dynamics of building community.

Over the next three months we will read, study, share, pray, laugh, and sometimes cry together. We will grow, stretch, and be uncomfortable at times. There will be times we want to simply quit and walk away but we will understand we are now connected and what we do impacts others.

Poverty will begin to come into focus and we will question the very culture we live in. Humility, integrity, and thankfulness will be at our core. Leading by serving will become reality. Jesus will be our model.

Difficult questions will arise. Answers may or may not come. Our lives will forever be changed. What a journey!

Partnership

2010-01-20T17:00:00.007-05:00

Our ministry in Mozambique and here in the States can only be accomplished by partnership. We are building a team that understands their responsibility to the "poorest of the poor" in this world and wants to help in the fight against stubborn poverty.

We are passionate about awakening the next generation of leaders.

By partnering with Christa and I you can expect the following:

* Communication. You will hear the stories of those who are now interwoven into your own personal story each month.

* Invitation. You are invited to "come and see" for yourself.

* Thankfulness. You are involved in a good and worthy work and you are appreciated for it.

What does partnering with us look like? What a great question. We would love to sit down with you over a cup of coffee (although I don't drink it) and share how you can join our journey.

Email us at todd@childrensrelief.org

or Christa at dondomommy@yahoo.com

Take, Lord, and Receive

2010-01-16T23:14:00.003-05:00



Take, Lord, and receive all my liberty, my memory, my understanding, and my entire will. All I have and call my own. Whatever I have or hold, you have given me. I return it all to you and surrender it wholly to be governed by your will. Give me only your love and your grace and I am rich enough and ask for nothing more.
St. Ignatius

Haiti

2010-01-15T23:40:00.001-05:00

Along with many of you, we have been watching the devastation from the recent earthquake in Haiti on our TV's and computers. Children's Relief International is helping and we invite you to join us. Visit the website for more...http://www.childrensrelief.org/

This & That

2010-01-15T09:14:00.003-05:00

Aidan and Ava are spending a few days with Grandma and Papa Bush as I am in Texas attending the annual CRI board/staff meeting with Todd. The kids always have a blast with my in-laws and Aidan is already looking forward to going sledding.

I am looking forward to connecting with staff and friends who share a passion for serving the poor.

As I was getting ready to leave Aidan asked me, "Mommy, do you know Jesus?" He is very inquisitive and asks questions about Jesus on a daily basis. Each time Ava or Aidan see a cross the always say, "that is where Jesus died." I pray that one day they both will follow Him with their lives - wherever He leads - even to the uttermost parts of the earth.

The journey that God has called me to is filled with ups and downs. He is molding me each day and I am thankful for my husband and that we are on this journey together. I am blessed to have family and friends who go with us on this journey.

Airline Tickets

2010-01-11T16:35:00.005-05:00

Traveling back and forth to Mozambique comes with a cost. We drive to Washington DC to take our first flight. It is cheaper than the four of us flying to DC and creates some great family memories.

The flight from DC to Johannesburg, South Africa is 18 hours. That is a long time in the same 17" wide seat. Christa and I are thankful that Ava and Aidan sleep well. After arriving in Joburg we stay over night at a bed and breakfast. It is nice to put your feet on the ground, get a shower, and stretch out on a bed. It is up early the next morning for one more flight to Dondo, Mozambique.

It takes us three days from the time we leave Syracuse, NY to we land in Mozambique. About a week later we have adjusted to the time difference and recovered from the flights. It is a journey with a cost. Saying goodbye to family and friends takes its toll. Welcoming our sisters and brothers in Africa gives us joy. Adjusting to the culture, language, smells, and pace of life is both rewarding and draining.

There is the literal cost of the airline tickets. A great deal for a family of four is $6,800. The price goes up from there at the end of January. We are currently $4,500 short in our transportation budget. Would you help with a one time gift designated to our travel expenses? You can click here and give a one time gift to help us buy our airline tickets. Thank you.

Needs

2010-01-07T13:31:00.006-05:00

It is difficult sometimes to ask for help when I have a need. I guess it could be traced back to my pride and wanting to do things on my own. The more I reflect on what God has to say about meeting our needs the more I realize how God uses other people in our lives many times to meet those needs. I know how much joy there is in helping someone else and yet more than once I have not allowed others to experience that joy by helping me.

Our support this past month was low. Really low. A phrase I have used often is "things are going to be tight this month." It is a phrase many of you are familiar with.

Maybe you are reading our blog for the first time. Maybe you are a regular reader. Over the next few weeks Christa and I want to invite you to join our team. We need your prayer and financial support to help slay the giants of poverty, aids, and illiteracy in Dondo, Mozambique. Your monthly financial support will allow us to awaken those here, in the States, of the need, and to help each one of us to understand our responsibility to the poor.

We would love to share more about what God is doing in our lives and how you can join us. If you are interested please email me at todd@childrensrelief.org

Merry Christmas

2009-12-23T14:02:00.002-05:00

A little singing by Aidan & Ava. Aidan was focused a little more on lunch than Ava :)

Have a Merry Christmas!!!

Website

2009-12-22T13:56:00.001-05:00

The new CRI website is live! Check it out by clicking here.

Apology

2009-12-20T21:15:00.003-05:00

The following was written by Shane Claiborne. I know it is a little long - but worth the time. I am looking forward to hearing Shane at Urbana next week.

To all my nonbelieving, sort-of-believing, and used-to-be-believing friends: I feel like I should begin with a confession. I am sorry that so often the biggest obstacle to God has been Christians. Christians who have had so much to say with our mouths and so little to show with our lives. I am sorry that so often we have forgotten the Christ of our Christianity.

Forgive us. Forgive us for the embarrassing things we have done in the name of God.

The other night I headed into downtown Philly for a stroll with some friends from out of town. We walked down to Penn's Landing along the river, where there are street performers, artists, musicians. We passed a great magician who did some pretty sweet tricks like pour change out of his iPhone, and then there was a preacher. He wasn't quite as captivating as the magician. He stood on a box, yelling into a microphone, and beside him was a coffin with a fake dead body inside. He talked about how we are all going to die and go to hell if we don't know Jesus.

Some folks snickered. Some told him to shut the hell up. A couple of teenagers tried to steal the dead body in the coffin. All I could do was think to myself, I want to jump up on a box beside him and yell at the top of my lungs, "God is not a monster." Maybe next time I will.

The more I have read the Bible and studied the life of Jesus, the more I have become convinced that Christianity spreads best not through force but through fascination. But over the past few decades our Christianity, at least here in the United States, has become less and less fascinating. We have given the atheists less and less to disbelieve. And the sort of Christianity many of us have seen on TV and heard on the radio looks less and less like Jesus.

At one point Gandhi was asked if he was a Christian, and he said, essentially, "I sure love Jesus, but the Christians seem so unlike their Christ." A recent study showed that the top three perceptions of Christians in the U. S. among young non-Christians are that Christians are 1) antigay, 2) judgmental, and 3) hypocritical. So what we have here is a bit of an image crisis, and much of that reputation is well deserved. That's the ugly stuff. And that's why I begin by saying that I'm sorry.

Now for the good news.

I want to invite you to consider that maybe the televangelists and street preachers are wrong — and that God really is love. Maybe the fruits of the Spirit really are beautiful things like peace, patience, kindness, joy, love, goodness, and not the ugly things that have come to characterize religion, or politics, for that matter. (If there is anything I have learned from liberals and conservatives, it's that you can have great answers and still be mean... and that just as important as being right is being nice.)

The Bible that I read says that God did not send Jesus to condemn the world but to save it... it was because "God so loved the world." That is the God I know, and I long for others to know. I did not choose to devote my life to Jesus because I was scared to death of hell or because I wanted crowns in heaven... but because he is good. For those of you who are on a sincere spiritual journey, I hope that you do not reject Christ because of Christians. We have always been a messed-up bunch, and somehow God has survived the embarrassing things we do in His name. At the core of our "Gospel" is the message that Jesus came "not [for] the healthy... but the sick." And if you choose Jesus, may it not be simply because of a fear of hell or hope for mansions in heaven.

Don't get me wrong, I still believe in the afterlife, but too often all the church has done is promise the world that there is life after death and use it as a ticket to ignore the hells around us. I am convinced that the Christian Gospel has as much to do with this life as the next, and that the message of that Gospel is not just about going up when we die but about bringing God's Kingdom down. It was Jesus who taught us to pray that God's will be done "on earth as it is in heaven." On earth.

One of Jesus' most scandalous stories is the story of the Good Samaritan. As sentimental as we may have made it, the original story was about a man who gets beat up and left on the side of the road. A priest passes by. A Levite, the quintessential religious guy, also passes by on the other side (perhaps late for a meeting at church). And then comes the Samaritan... you can almost imagine a snicker in the Jewish crowd. Jews did not talk to Samaritans, or even walk through Samaria. But the Samaritan stops and takes care of the guy in the ditch and is lifted up as the hero of the story. I'm sure some of the listeners were ticked. According to the religious elite, Samaritans did not keep the right rules, and they did not have sound doctrine... but Jesus shows that true faith has to work itself out in a way that is Good News to the most bruised and broken person lying in the ditch.

It is so simple, but the pious forget this lesson constantly. God may indeed be evident in a priest, but God is just as likely to be at work through a Samaritan or a prostitute. In fact the Scripture is brimful of God using folks like a lying prostitute named Rahab, an adulterous king named David... at one point God even speaks to a guy named Balaam through his donkey. Some say God spoke to Balaam through his ass and has been speaking through asses ever since. So if God should choose to use us, then we should be grateful but not think too highly of ourselves. And if upon meeting someone we think God could never use, we should think again.

After all, Jesus says to the religious elite who looked down on everybody else: "The tax collectors and prostitutes are entering the Kingdom ahead of you." And we wonder what got him killed?

I have a friend in the UK who talks about "dirty theology" — that we have a God who is always using dirt to bring life and healing and redemption, a God who shows up in the most unlikely and scandalous ways. After all, the whole story begins with God reaching down from heaven, picking up some dirt, and breathing life into it. At one point, Jesus takes some mud, spits in it, and wipes it on a blind man's eyes to heal him. (The priests and producers of anointing oil were not happy that day.)

In fact, the entire story of Jesus is about a God who did not just want to stay "out there" but who moves into the neighborhood, a neighborhood where folks said, "Nothing good could come." It is this Jesus who was accused of being a glutton and drunkard and rabble-rouser for hanging out with all of society's rejects, and who died on the imperial cross of Rome reserved for bandits and failed messiahs. This is why the triumph over the cross was a triumph over everything ugly we do to ourselves and to others. It is the final promise that love wins.

It is this Jesus who was born in a stank manger in the middle of a genocide. That is the God that we are just as likely to find in the streets as in the sanctuary, who can redeem revolutionaries and tax collectors, the oppressed and the oppressors... a God who is saving some of us from the ghettos of poverty, and some of us from the ghettos of wealth.

In closing, to those who have closed the door on religion — I was recently asked by a non-Christian friend if I thought he was going to hell. I said, "I hope not. It will be hard to enjoy heaven without you." If those of us who believe in God do not believe God's grace is big enough to save the whole world... well, we should at least pray that it is.

Your brother,

Shane

Thanks Santa

2009-12-16T22:24:00.002-05:00

Santa delivered early Christmas presents for Aidan and Ava today. Because of his tight schedule this time of year he chose to use the post office. The box was big. Return address "Santa, North Pole." The card in the box said, "I am sending you an early Christmas present to be opened now. You were so good this year and according to my records, you get to have one present to open now! Have fun! ~Santa~

Aidan has played for hours and is now sleeping with his batman car. He has been chasing "bad" guys with it and according to him, "Daddy I am winning."

Ava's eyes became large and the smile on her face grew and grew as she jumped in the air when she realized she had received a beautiful princess doll, Sleeping Beauty. They have not left each others side all night.

Santa, Christa and I want to say THANK YOU! Our kids were so happy to get such special gifts. They send you hugs and kisses. Blessings to you my friend.

This & That

2009-12-09T23:21:00.003-05:00

Governor Patterson says that New York State is out of money! What does this mean?

Quote from Ava, "Daddy, Jesus went to heaven...yeah Jesus took a donkey to get there."

First snow day with Daddy meant going outside and having some fun. It was easiest to put all of the snow gear on over Aidan and Ava's pajamas. Snow angels, throwing snow, eating snow (all colors), and shoveling snow (it won't be long and they can do the driveway) was a lot of fun. Going inside for hot chocolate, priceless.

Thankful for technology that allows me to talk with those in Mozambique every week. The rainy season has started there. Food will become more and more scarce over the next couple of months for our friends in Dondo.

Currently reading, "Forgotten God: Reversing Our Tragic Neglect of the Holy Spirit" by Francis Chan.

Two Hands

2009-12-02T13:27:00.000-05:00

Lights on the Lake

2009-11-27T22:20:00.003-05:00

Once again I have a self inflicted wound from Lights on the Lake. It is hard not to repeatedly stab yourself with a dull butter knife as you drive for what seems like hours looking at thousands of lights. If I had to do it alone I would most defiantly drive into the lake and allow the misery to end :)

What makes this drive worth it is my family. I love the ooooohhhhhhhs and aaaahhhhhhhhhhhs of Aidan and Ava. As we were pulling up to the entrance, Santa was standing there greeting us. Aidan shouted out the window, "Hey Santa, shooter, I want a shooter." Yes, this is the year for his first nerf gun. Ava wants one too. Christa loves singing Christmas songs as we weave our way through the lights. It was a nice time and I have a full year to recover.

You can check it out for yourself by clicking here.

Unexpected Blessings

2009-11-24T19:04:00.004-05:00

When I lived in Poughkeepsie and worked as a nanny there, I attended a great church. They had a singles program and I enjoyed the fellowship and the time that I attended there. I never would have thought that one day they would once again impact my life.

I contacted this Church while in Mozambique this past summer as we continue to raise support. I spoke with the chairman of the missions committee and he was honest with me that there was no money in the budget for new missionaries. He said that if we wanted to come and share our ministry with the committee they would love to hear it. Todd & I have committed that this is God's ministry and it is our responsibility to share it with others. So way back in July we set up an appointment with them in November.

November rolled around and that day we debated about canceling because of the fact that it is a 4 hour trip down and back and money was very tight that week! But we ended up going and for us it was truly the most encouraging and uplifting night. We spent the evening with the mission board as they asked questions of our ministry, enjoying the fellowship, and praying for us. We walked out the door feeling refreshed. They were honest with us that their budget was full but hoped to be able to have us down for a long weekend to meet with their college age group about internships and speak with the youth pastor or others about possible short term trips.

On Sunday night we got an email from the chairman with amazing news! Money had suddenly become available due to a retirement and we were in their budget for 2010! We just cried tears of joy. We praise and are amazed at how the Lord continues to take care of us and meet our needs as we serve Him. This process of support raising is slow but the Lord shows us opportunities to share this ministry and expose people to poverty and how they can help.

Happenings & Thoughts

2009-11-23T23:40:00.001-05:00

Accepted our first set of interns for 2010. Applications continue to flow in.

Christmas tree and stockings are up. It is part of our Thanksgiving tradition.

Mozambican wood nativity set reminds me that Jesus was born for all colors, classes, and cultures.

Received good news yesterday that left me speechless and in tears. (Christa will share more about this tomorrow)

Christa and I are blessed to have family and friends who pour into our lives and give above and beyond.

My favorite phrase to hear Ava and Aidan say, “Hey Dad, you want to wrestle? Do you?” And then they come running full steam.

Christmas 2009

2009-11-22T22:54:00.004-05:00

You and your family can help others have a brighter Christmas this year. Click on the photo and make a difference today. Thanks for going above and beyond.

Blessings

2009-11-15T07:03:00.000-05:00

May God bless you with discomfort
At easy answers, half-truths, and superficial relationships
So that you may live deep within your heart

May God bless you with anger
At injustice, oppression, and exploitation of people,
So that you may work for justice, freedom and peace.

May God bless you with tears
To shed for those who suffer in pain, rejection, hunger and war,
So that you may reach out your hand to comfort them and
To turn their pain into joy

And may God bless you with enough foolishness
To believe that you can make a difference in the world,
So that you can do what other claim cannot be done
To bring justice and kindness to all our children and the poor.

Amen

~Brittany Peters~ World Vision

Princess

2009-11-11T15:28:00.006-05:00

The other day we were in the Christmas Tree Shop looking for kitchen curtains for our new home. Ava and I were shopping around the toy aisle. She is into anything princess these days, and we came across small versions of all of the Disney princesses. She wanted to see them and I told her that we could not buy them because we only had enough money for the curtains. She softly said, "ok" and explained she just wanted to hold them. She looked at each one with a smile on her face and utter amazement and joy. When she was finished she said, "here mommy I am done" and was perfectly fine. No fit, no please, just a smile. I am so proud of her and happy that she is such a content girl but I had tremendous guilt after. The guilt of feeling that I couldn't buy my daughter the $3.99 princess that she adored! I think we all deal with guilt from time to time and this was just made worse by her sweet behavior. She is such a blessing that little princess daughter of mine and my heart over flows with love for her.

Book Burning

2009-10-14T15:42:00.003-04:00

Is this for real? Click here to watch the video. There is a part of me that wishes the church catches on fire and is no more.

Kate

2009-10-12T21:16:00.004-04:00

I was in McDonald's with my niece today and as I was getting ketchup a woman about my age approached me. She was dressed nicely in a pair of dress pants and a pretty sweater. I noticed that she was shaking and on the verge of tears. She said that she was sorry and embarrassed that she was asking me this but she was leaving an abusive relationship and needed $18 for a bus ticket to Albany. My heart hurt for this woman and all I had in my wallet was my grocery money and quite honestly I don't need to buy all of the unnecessary junk that I planned on buying this week, so I gave her the money that she needed. I asked her what her name was and she said that it was Kate. I asked her if I could pray for her and she said yes and I just prayed that God would protect her, and wrap her with His love. I told her when she gets to Albany, try to find a church and please get some help and that Jesus loves her. She hugged me and cried and thanked me for praying for her. My heart has hurt for Kate today and so many times she has come to my mind and I have prayed for her. I think that it is easy for us to look at the situation and wonder if she is telling the truth, and I have come to realize that it is not my place to judge. The Lord commands us to love one another and I hope and pray that Kate feels His love today. If you think of my new friend Kate today, please pray for her. Pray that she may really know the one true Savior who has come to take her pain and burden on Him.

Women's Retreat

2009-10-05T20:12:00.003-04:00

I had the pleasure this weekend of attending the women's retreat for North Syracuse Baptist Church. What a wonderful weekend with about 100 awesome ladies and beautiful fall foliage in the Adirondacks. The speaker was Karen Lynip a missionary to the Phillipines. I remember Karen from when I was growing up and enjoyed going to missions conferences to hear the missionaries share what they were doing. Karen spoke about "living between the lions". Meaning the 2 sides of Jesus the one where He is the "welcoming whisperer" and the other where we should fear Him for He does not tolerate our sin. She truly filled us up this weekend and reminded us that Jesus just wants us to come, if we are thirsty, come and He the God of the Universe desires us to come to Him. It was a great time of refreshment and relaxation with some wonderful ladies and I got to share our ministry with them and what God is doing in Mozambique.

Church today

2009-10-04T10:34:00.003-04:00

29 people baptized + singing and dancing + preaching + testimonies + prayer + offering = a priceless 4 hour service to begin "Missions" month.

Alert

2009-09-27T12:12:00.000-04:00

The Department of State alerts U.S. citizens to the potential for violence in Mozambique in association with the October 28, 2009, general election. This Travel Alert expires on November 10, 2009.
The Embassy has received specific reports of localized civil unrest and violence in Gaza, Nampula, Sofala (Dondo is located here), and Tete provinces. Past elections in Mozambique have featured violence in other areas of the country throughout the campaign season, the election, and especially in the days and weeks following the announcement of election results.
U.S. citizens residing in or traveling to Mozambique during this period are reminded to maintain a high level of security awareness at all times and avoid political rallies, demonstrations, and crowds of any kind.

Revolution

2009-09-25T15:20:00.003-04:00

September 25th marks the day of revolution for the Mozambicans and their freedom from the Portuguese. The Portuguese fled the country within 48 hours of the uprising. I drove a group of young people to the beach this morning as they celebrated the significance of this day. It was a blessing to hear the laughter, see the joy on their faces, and sense the strong bond of friendship. I was reminded today that freedom should not be taken for granted. I have a responsibility to help others experience the freedom that I enjoy.

Settling In

2009-09-18T13:50:00.003-04:00

The kids and I are settling in again. The trip home was great, the kids slept about 12 of the 17 hours and enjoyed the movies on the flight! They have started school and seem to be enjoying it. Ava wanted to know the second day of school why she had to go again when she already went! I think she thought school was just a one day thing. But they both run right in to the class and the teacher says they are a joy and well behaved. I asked her if she was speaking about my son or someone else's! We are all still trying to adjust to the time change. I find myself feeling sleepy in the middle of the day and the kids are sleeping great at night. It is hard not having Todd here and we all miss him especially the kids. Of course I miss him a lot at night when it comes to the bedtime routine and after the kids are in bed I miss having him to talk to. As soon as I figure out how to upload pictures I will post one of the kids first day of school. They love their backpacks and get to pick something out everyday to bring for show and tell. Aidan wanted to bring one of his sisters necklaces and I had to redirect him to something else. It was quite funny. We have even jumped into Awana and I am involved in a Bible study called Imarriage on Wednesday nights. I can't wait for Todd to join me. So we have a lot to keep us busy! Thank you for praying for our transition and for Todd as he continues to serve in Mozambique.

The Barbarian Way

2009-09-17T15:31:00.003-04:00

I am currently reading a book by Erwin Raphael McManus called The Barbarian Way. It is worth picking up. The following has been running through my mind the past couple of nights.

“The civilized build shelters and invite God to stay with them; barbarians move with God wherever He chooses to go. The civilized Christian has a routine; the barbarian disciple has a mission. The civilized believer knows the letter of the law; the barbarian disciple lives the spirit of the law. The religiously civilized love tradition; the barbarian spirit loves challenges. The civilized are satisfied with ritual; barbarians live and thrive in the mystical. For the civilized disciple, religion provides stability and certainty; for the barbarian, a life in God, is one of risk and mystery." P. 78-79

You can see more of the book here.

What?

2009-09-15T16:49:00.001-04:00

This is funny. Click here.

(HT Kurt)