I know it’s been awhile since I’ve sent out an update. Let me fill you in on what’s been happening around here. We spent a week in Uganda having a great time staying on the Nile River. This was the site of this year’s debriefing where we had a chance to talk about the amazing things that God did in and through us this semester. We were also able to prepare our students for re-entry into their cultures back home and what to expect with reverse culture shock. Above all, we had a ton of fun fellowshipping together as a “family” one last time. We spent a whole day whitewater rafting the class 5 Nile River; for some there was more “swimming” than rafting! Ha. 
Then we returned to Nairobi via a long bus ride and had 2 days back here to get the team packed up and ready to depart for home. They all flew out the 15th of May and since then it’s been so quiet around these parts!
There are 3 of us leaders left here now. For the first couple of days we walked around wondering what we were doing. It’s quite an adjustment going from a packed/rigid schedule where everything you do revolves around taking care of the students and overseeing the various ministries that they are involved in. But after a few awkward days of aimlessly wondering around, I’ve come to enjoy this chance of pace.
I’m learning a lot about the discipline of rest! In Matthew 11, Jesus says “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” I’ve read this over and over since I was a child, and have just now come to a new understanding of what this looks like. I’ve found not just physical rest from the hectic schedule, but I’ve found rest for my spirit and my soul. I’ve been able to spend more quality time with my Kenyan friends and neighbors. I’ve had a great time playing with the street boys and visiting with my Muslim friend Ramla.
There’s something peaceful and freeing about being able to take a deep breath and relax. Don’t get me wrong, there is still work to be done here. But we’ve got some time to prepare for the teams that will be coming in this summer. In 2 weeks a team of 15-20 year olds will arrive and be here for June and July. They are bringing 15 girls and 7 boys. So we’re trying to figure out where all these people will sleep. By the end of the trip, their team name may be the Sardines!
So, that’s what has been happening around here lately. Thank all of you for your emails keeping me informed about the many events going on in your life. It’s always great to hear from you! Thank you also for your continued prayers for my health. I am feeling much better now and am on my way to 100% again. You are all such a blessing in my life and I thank God for you! Have a great week!
