Jambo everyone.
Well, the 2nd annual HIV/AIDS and Leadership Development conference is over. Though the attendance was lower than last year due to mishandling of promotion on this side, in the end, it was a success as we heard comments from Kenyans and Americans who learned so much, enjoyed the networking and each other's company. Day one was super smooth, so much so we jokingly braced for day 2 - but we should not have been joking! Bob Smith had numerous challenges with the hotel on the second day, to the point that they were assigning conference rooms to another conference group that had been assigned to us and printed on our programs. Oh, and that other conference was also an HIV conference! So imagine the confusion. Someone explained afterward that we should change conference venues every year, because they will always try to impress you the first time, but take you for granted the second! Kenyan cultural tip number 52. The Smith's handled everything with Christ-like manner, even with appropriate anger when necessary (!), and with a patience that can only be explained by the Spirit.
I am amazed at the receptivity of Kenyans to learn - whether it's things that we might think are too simple, too culturally different, or too complex. I philosophied on the mobilization of Kingdom professionals during my persentation to a group of pastors ("what' that?" exactly!) - and as I was sharing I thought, "What in the world does this have to do with a Masai congregation?!" Yet the Masai were the ones who shared the most about the way they had been challenged to think beyond what they normally consider "church work". I was humbled by that, and then utterly flattened by the next speaker, a woman from California who has taught in a local Bible college for close to 20 years. She shared with the pastors about how to deal with conflict in ministry, and she was telling jokes within their cultural context that had them grabbing their stomachs and putting their hands in the air! She was so fun to watch as she related so deeply; yet at the same time it made me realize I am so far from being Kenyan! There is always something new to learn.
Speaking of learning, I finally truly understand the meaning of "flashing". I had heard Kenyans tell each other "I'll flash you", and I thought to myself, "no thanks!" I knew it had to do with the phone, but I finally understood that it means "I will dial your number, then my number will appear on your screen, and you can store my number". Somtimes it means "I have no credits so call me right back!" Needless to say, I've been flashed a lot this trip, and on one occasion, I got to do the flashing. I felt Kenyan for a moment.
There is so much to learn from this beautiful people. Their graciousness is off the charts. Their moral compass is strong and deep, ironic for a country known for rampant political corruption, because a huge majority will never cheat you, especially if they know you. I am amazed at the wealth of talent that exists here, and wonder how radically Africa could be different. You know, 360 billion dollars just pledged by the G8 wont make Africa different. Investment in the lives of those we know, trust, and agree with in vision will. Africa will not be changed by more powerful governments. Biblical principles taught for all domains of life will. I don't completely know how to do this yet, and every time I think I've grasped it a major curve ball makes me swing and miss so foolishly I wonder why I even picked up a bat! But the Lord continues to say, "This is the way, walk in it" and our teams continue to serve and Kenyans continue to be equipped and our partners continue to dream GREAT dreams and see BIG visions, and the Lord continues to join our hearts with theirs. God is up to something - you can see it on their faces, you can hear it in their words, you can feel it in their laughter. I am glad He has allowed us to be here - not to make things happen, but to be blessed as they happen! To God be the glory!
You right brother, in our daily lives God continues to say, “this is the way, walk in it”. The decision is ours, we decide to walk in it or go around avoiding this invitation. However, God is at work and we are the ones losing those blessings He has in store for us. I believe the Kenia team is committed to walk in this journey of faith sharing great dreams and visions with body of Christ around the world.
Take courage, we are with all of you in our prayers…that is the church doing its work. What a blessing to say that!!
Posted by: Rolando D Aguirre | June 09, 2007 at 06:54 PM
David:
I'm so glad that many were blessed by the conference. God knows what he is doing and he is in control. My daily prayers are with you and the rest of the team.
You are right on target ... throwing more money for bigger government will not, in the long run, make the most impact on that great country. The answer is to be found in relationships that build a Christ-ethic foundation into the fabric of national leadership. That's why the "Watoto Model" is so attractive. The work the Kimberly is doing is essential. We are fortunate and blessed to be a small part of it.
blessings,
ellis
Posted by: ellis | June 10, 2007 at 12:14 AM