Ever at the Brink!

News from the Kariuki family in Chad

July 2008

Chad seems ever at the brink of something... Darfur situation continues as horrific as ever, rebels in the East threatening to attack the capital once more, and more recently (and closer to home) an Islamist sect calling for Jihad, burning churches and homes in our area (Kouno, Manda, & Sarh.) We pray for a great revival and harvest in the midst of these difficult times for our adopted nation! Already we see light dawning, as churches are being roused to pray and fast for their nation, and we believe together that God is going to act. The unreached will be reached!

In times like these some stories stand out and they are to be told. One Nigerian young man who just recently graduated from his university studies was on his way to us in Feb. to be a student in our Discipleship Training School. Because of the fighting in N’Djamena, he entered Chad at a border town south of N’Djamena. On entry he fell into the hands of evil gendarmes (military police) who beat him up & robbed him of everything. Somehow he got back to Jos, Nigeria, got medical attention & a week later was on his way back to Chad to fulfill what God put on his heart. In spite of his limited French and no Arabic, people were very receptive to his message and he was even used to lead some Muslims to the Lord. This is the tenacity of those who will accomplish the remaining parts of the great commission. May God raise more like Kelly!

Moses just returned from two weeks away at the North Africa staff conference, a very challenging and encouraging time. Andee, our volunteer nanny who was a huge blessing to us, has returned to the US, having finished her commitment here. As a family we are well, although facing some health issues (Moses may need minor surgery for a hernia, and both him and Jo need some dental work done) and feeling quite tired. Moses also needs a new passport, (which can only be issued in Kenya, since Chad doesn't have a Kenyan embassy) having completely filled up his current one on this most recent trip.

We had originally planned our next "break" from Chad to be in Kenya over Christmas and January, giving us 4-5 weeks maximum away, that time being between schools. However at this point, looking at our needs, and also the possibility of visiting team (Medical Outreach) coming in January, we would like to go in August/September, which would allow us to see doctors and dentists sooner, and also give us a bit more time to allow for those things which may take longer (passports, etc!)

A big challenge for us at this point is purchasing tickets for this trip. However we know nothing is too big or too small for our Lord and we are praying for his provision for tickets and our other expenses while we will be in Kenya. Would you please stand with us, pray for this need, and ask God if he would have you contribute as well?

Until all have heard,

Moses and Jo Kariuki

Joshua, Zachary, Marianna & Katelyn