Jan 29th

Sitting down, Jesus called the Twelve and said, “Anyone who wants to be first must be the very last, and the servant of all.”

Mark 9:35 NIV

We all come with different spiritual gifts as well as abilities to complete tasks.  We also often bring our preconceived notions of what we want to do, and how things should be completed.  While our spiritual gifts and our abilities are a must for a mission trip.  Our preconceptions are not required.

As we discussed the days events participants shared their thoughts on Serving Others:

Serving is not only about completing physical tasks; but serving can include taking the time to see the wonders of their world; listen and hear their stories; speak and to offer words of encouragement.  

While most of our Kenyan brothers and sisters speak English, we also make small attempts at using Swahili words.  When communication attempts from either may fail, sitting in silence as an example of service can also speak volumes.

Surely, however, you will encounter people who are in misery, and people who cry, and people who suffer.  Will you be like your heavenly Father, to see what is happening, to hear cries from the oppressed, to show concern, and even to rescue and provide?  These are heavy burdens for anyone to carry, and God does not even ask you to carry them alone.  No, He asks you to help Him as he leads the way.

1 Corinthians 12:4-6 (NIV)

4 There are different kinds of gifts, but the same Spirit distributes them. 5 There are different kinds of service, but the same Lord. 6 There are different kinds of working, but in all of them and in everyone it is the same God at work.