By Ross Sinclair
Today got off to a tough start for me. Let me set the stage.
The weather here in Ifumbo has been quite cold. It has been overcast and windy with a few sprinkles of rain. The temperature this morning was around 42. I was eating my mandazi (Tanzanian donut) and enjoying my morning coffee. The others in the group were laughing because one of the interpreters, Emanuel, said that he was cold because he did not have many lipids. He said that Baba Mathayo (me) has many lipids. I’m not sure what a lipid is but I’m pretty sure it is Swahili for fat. Emanuel said in Tanzania it is prestigious to have lipids. It is a sign of great wealth. Apparently I’m banking in Tanzania. It’s nice to be in a culture that has an appreciation for girth. The team has begun to refer to me as Lipid Man. I think I prefer Last Rights Ross.
The training classes continued in the morning.
In the afternoon No Hablo, Evil Eye, Inspector Gadget, and Twinkle Toes took Melinda, Bri, and Joseph to a local public school. The team shared Bible stories and played games with the kids. There were over 300 kids who heard the stories.
1 1/2 times and I got a report on how the Safwa are using the solar-powered audio players. These players are loaded with 72 Bible stories and 10 True Love Waits lessons. The Safwa missionaries are using them in their evangelism and church planting efforts. They are used to teaching new believers the stories of the Bible. We gave them 20 new players.
At dinner we had a sweet time of fellowship. We shared our personal testimonies and shared our lives. It was a good bonding time.
The day of ministry came to a close as Inspector Gadget showed the Jesus film to a crowd of approximately 150 people.
Please pray for the local Ifumbo church as they contemplate the restoration of a brother in Christ.
I hope my lipids will keep me warm tonight because it’s kind of chilly.
Jul 16, 2014 @ 06:31:55
Well it sounds like you guys are building relationships with the tribe and one another. PTL that you are so “wealthy” Ross. We are praying safety for all, forgiveness and restored relations among the people. Paying that the Holy Spirit would lead, guide and direct each of you, and that you would be receptive and obedient to Him. Praying that the hearts of the people would be stirred with a hunger for the Lord, and that there would be a clear understanding of who He is and what He has done for us all.
PS Keep an eye on Mr. Curtis for me. (You gotta watch that guy!)
Thanks for the update!
Our God is faithful!!
Tammie and Rocky