Mangos & Cod Liver Oil

This morning I headed out to Ndele Village for our weekly bible study. We meet under a mango tree in Kennedy's garden (pictures coming soon). This was actually my first time leading the bible study, so we spent the time really getting to know one another. I shared my testimony about what the Lord's done in my life and encouraged them to not view themselves "according to the flesh". Several others then opened up and shared several testimonies from what the Lord has done in their lives. Many had come to the Lord through healing, admitting to once trusting in "traditional medicine" but found that only the Lord is our healer. It was amazing! Kennedy also asked for prayer for the bible study to grow to include everyone in the village. I absolutely love his heart.

After we were done with the teaching, one woman, Katherine, said

they needed more vitamins. Some of you may remember that last year we had 5 containers full of vitamins that we distributed. Suddenly everyone was sharing about how much the vitamins have helped them. Then Katherine continued saying that she loves the cod liver oil. In fact, she not only takes it as medicine but also puts it on her skin and hair. She smiled brightly as she shared this, exclaiming how cod liver oil not only makes you strong but also gives you beautiful skin and hair. I had to hold in my laugh as I heard this. I can't imagine using cod liver oil as a conditioner or lotion but it's good to know that if you enjoy fish smells, it's a great option. :)

Bush Trekking

Last week, Pastor Dragan and I were driving to Mahalulu Village to meet with the pastor there. A few weeks prior, we had shown the Jesus Film there and wanted to follow up with the churches there. When we reached Pastor Thomas' home, we found that he was working out in his garden. His son jumped into the truck to guide us, assuring us that the "road" was passable. Several minutes later I soon realized this was going to be quit a journey. We crossed rivers, drove through people's yards, and down paths that were barely even footpaths. We finally reached a point where the truck could go no farther. Parking it under a tree, we set off on foot for another 30 minutes, I almost lost my balance in a river, before arriving at the garden. The surprise and joy on Pastor Thomas' face made that long trek worth it. He was so blessed that we could come all that way just to encourage him. These rural pastor easily get discouraged because they often feel inadequate to preach the Gospel due to lack of training. They also have no one else really speaking into their lives and encouraging them. This is why Overland Missions doesn't start our own churches but work alongside those that already exist. I'm excited to say that Mahalulu will be our first location for the new believers class that I'll be leading and training local leaders to teach in other villages.