Treasures

The tent at Rift Valley Fellowship

Though the fig tree should not blossom, nor fruit be on the vines, 

the produce of the olive fail and the fields yield no food, 

the flock be cut off from the fold and there be no herd in the stalls, 

yet I will rejoice in the LORD; 

I will take joy in the God of my salvation. GOD, The Lord, is my strength; 

he makes my feet like the deer's; 

he makes me tread on my high places.

This scripture is from Habakkuk 3:17 and how Michael began his teaching Saturday on placing our trust in God, instead of focusing on our circumstances - a struggle common to both Kenyans and Americans alike. 

After the teaching, Julie beautifully gave her testimony of salvation from an early age, and her struggles with focusing on The Lord through difficult circumstances and seasons of intense suffering. It was a very fitting testimony for the people of Maai Mahiu. 

Julie giving her testimony

Michael also shared personal stories from his testimony. A woman named Ruth who was in attendance remarked that she thought the struggles we described were unique to Africa. She had no idea that not all Americans were rich and happy. So thankful The Lord shattered this lie for her and replaced it with His Truth - we have all sinned and fall short of the glory of God. Romans 3:23.

Michael then outlined in detail addiction and the insanity cycle of sin. He described how Jesus Christ is the only remedy for us. This included teachings from Romans 5:12, James 1:12-16, Romans 1:24-26, 28.

From the inside looking out at RVF

We broke into small groups to discuss the teachings - Rebecca, Kristin and Martha with the women, and John, Sam and Michael with mostly men. We proposed the question to them, "Where in the cycle of sin do you see yourself?" People are hurting from poverty and broken family relationships. Drugs and alcohol are prevalent. These can be stumbling blocks for them in trusting God and surrendering fully to Him. Much like us, they can find themselves worrying, complaining and comparing themselves to others who seem more greatly blessed in their eyes. Our hope is that we reinforced to them that Jesus is enough to sustain in all circumstances. He meets us where we are, whether in want or plenty.

During small group, a man struggling in his marriage asked Julie if he could recieve counsel from her. Ryan and Julie sat with him discussing marriage, forgiveness, reconciliation, and how Rift Valley Fellowship can walk along side the couple to offer biblical support and community. Julie encouraged the man to join a homegroup at RVF, something that Isaac has been encouraging him to do also.

Sunday service at Rift Valley Fellowship - what an experience! An hour and fifteen minutes in and the message had not even begun! We were treated to such touching praise and worship, a blessing of the children, introduction of new guests, and a poem by the young boys. These four young boys we later learned sleep on the street. Every night finding a new spot because older men look for them to abuse them. Pastor Isaac and Pastor Joseph are trying to raise money to be able to house these boys at night within the church walls. 

Blessing the children

A group of older boys and Pastor Robert stood in front of the congregation and performed a dance for us, these boys were talented! One of our very own, Ryan, suddenly burst out of his chair to join their routine. Needless to say, everyone there thought it was bold and a riot to watch. Ryan said that he wanted to show the people that he is just like them and that they could feel comfortable approaching him. 

Ryan, Joseph and the Street Boys dancing

The message Sunday was over anxiety and worry. Michael was Spirit-filled and spoke passionately. He opened with The Parable of the Hidden Treasure, Matthew 13:44, a verse The Lord gave him during his personal worship time that morning. This verse led beautifully into the main text from Matthew 6:19-34 on where our treasures lie. When our true treasures are here on earth and not in heaven, this leads to idolatry and worry/anxiety. This happens when we worship God's creation (things) rather than the Creator. 

Martha, John, and Ryan serving lunch at RVF

Our team was privledged to serve lunch to the people of RVF today. Afterward, we socialized with the people, which included an abundance of small children today! 

Sam singing with the children at RVF

The team took advantage of the pleasant morning weather on Sunday and did some Crossfit in the courtyard of Daraja House. Martha, who is certified to instruct Crossfit, led the workout. About half of those working out already train in Crossfit regularly, the other half were quite sore the following day!