Mumena Missions - All Blogs

JW & JE Newsletter

Jeremy and Whitney — Thu, 23 Feb 2012 23:56:00 +0000

I was just taught by Erin how to upload our newsletters to our blog. So I'll make sure I start uploading these each month. Thanks Erin :) This is a newsletter created by Jason, Erin, Jeremy and I for our supporting congregation, friends and family to know what's going on in Zambia. Just click on each page and then use the magnifying glass to zoom in and read.

Since we passed up our one year mark in January, we wanted to review our first year in Zambia and give our direction for the second year. Hope you enjoy!

Davis Newsletter

Erin — Mon, 20 Feb 2012 05:05:00 +0000

Here is our newest newsletter. It has a time line of events from our first year then our goals for our second year in Mumena. Just click on each page then use the magnifying glass to zoom in and read. Or, if you would like to be on our email list just comment and let us know. : )

Village Music

Erin — Sun, 19 Feb 2012 02:39:00 +0000

Yesterday Jason and I went to Konkwa village and while we were there we visited this very talented blind gentleman. Jeremy and Whitney are good friends with his family so I had heard about how inspiring he is before but getting to see him in action...playing hymns on his hand crafted instrument while softly singing was such a sweet experience. I wish I could have videoed him and shared that but unfortunately it would have taken a really really long time with the speed of our internet

to upload a video plus I am not too handy with video

recording : ). Instead here are few pictures....

Thought this might be encouraging for some to see today!

"This is the work of the Eternal One,

and it is marvelous in our eyes.

This is the day the Eternal God has made;

let us celebrate and be happy today."

Psalm 118:23-24

Happy Sunday!

Praise Through Tears

Rick — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 10:00:00 +0000

Right now, Rick along with many of the team are driving to the Mukwemba village.

Alek Mukwemba (far right) with his friends:
Simoni Peyela Sr., Gosper Mofya, and Harry Jikata (left to right)

One of our dear and closest brothers Alek Mukwemba just passed away. He was one of the village leaders, a church leader at Konwka, and a strong Christian influence in the community. He was a strong and radient light for the Lord. He would stand up for his God even if all those around him refused to do what was right.

Alek once lived in darkness. He was an alcoholic and focused on the gains of this world until a few years ago. Then, his life was changed forever. With God at his side, he changed all his ways and gained the love and respect of the comunity.

We praise God that Alek fought the good fight and won the race and is now one of the many thatwill get to finally be with his great and wonderful Maker. Praise Godfrom whom all blessings flow and Alek is one of those blessings. God'slove flowed through Mukwemba's life until the day he died.

We all will gothrough a tearful time missing our dear brother and fellow worker forthe Lord. Please pray for his dear wife and their children andgrandchildren as they will have to go through a time of greaving andhealing. Please pray that his family will stand strong and lean on theLord for strength and comfort and not on certain traditions thatinvolve witchcraft and it's evils. Please pray for strength for all the Christianshere.

In God's gentle, comforting, and quiet strength
- Karen

Team Blog Summary–January 2012

Rick — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 10:00:00 +0000

Below is a summary of our team’s blogs for January. Click on a title to go to the full article.

Team

Congregation Report - Mumbezhi Church of Christ
This year we have tried to stress the need for each congregation to grow via evangelism. In a land where truth is relative and ecumenicalism is embraced as “right”, evangelism pushes people out of their comfort zone. Thus accepting this great work of the church is a challenge for our young church plants. The Mumbezhi congregation is actually outside of the Mumena Chieftaincy and is pretty far out in the bush. The majority are from different tribes, Lunda and a few Congolese. Mumbezhi, however, has…

Brian & Sondra Davis

MISSIONARY JOURNEY: Erin Davis
“but as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord .” Joshua 24:15 KJV In a land ruled by fear of the dead members of one’s own family, one of the first tasks of the missionary is to help establish Christian homes. Erin has a passion for helping families along the journey of becoming more Christ-like day by day. Conversion to the Lordship of Christ is just the first step. Letting Christ permeate our most private relationships and thoughts is a lifelong…

MISSIONARY JOURNEY: Apprenticeship Team Work
“… neither shall ye defile yourselves with any manner of creeping thing that creepeth upon the earth.” Leviticus 11:44 KJV Our apprenticeship team work skills were put to the test recently when Whitney came from our boys room and mentioned that she had just seen the largest wall spider in her life. As the old missionary, I condescendingly told her that “wall spiders are our friends”. That is missionary speak for “Whitney, get a grip.” However, when Noah & Bryson began “ooing…

Jeremy & Whitney Davis

Waiting
I've been reading Mike Cope's book, Megan's Secrets . Mike Cope was the preacher for my church growing up and his wife was a mentor of mine. The book is about the life and death of their mentally disabled daughter and what she taught Mike about life. I have enjoyed remembering Megan, who was just a couple years older than me. I remember one time when my mom wanted me, as a 7 year old at the time, to understand God better, so she took me to stop by and visit Megan. I didn't understand it at the…

Growing in the Bush
As I am feeling a bit sentimental about passing up our one year mark in Zambia, I thought today I would share a bit about our experience with the Mushingashi church. It's hard to believe we have already lived here throughout a full year. When we arrived in Zambia last January, our team divided out church plants that we would all work with. One of the churches Jeremy and I were assigned was Mushingashi. They were struggling and needed encouragement- strung out in the bush and isolated, poor…
Guest Post!
I haven't been the best blogger since the new year, but there are reasons for that. Jeremy and I were stuck in Lusaka, Zambia's capital city, last week with some truck problems with Toyota. So, I will be catching up this week. However, I wanted to share Brian Davis' post he wrote for our team blog last week. Brian is my husband's uncle and our mentor since we have arrived on the field. He has been a missionary in Africa for many, many years. This blog post is just too good not to share.…

Zambian New Years
New Years is the Kaonde tribe's most important holiday of the year. Jeremy and I spent New Years day celebrating with Konkwa church. We woke up early to begin our bicycle ride to Konkwa to join them in their worship service. The church service was encouraging for Jeremy and I. At the end of the four hour service, everyone was still very attentive. My favorite part, besides my sweet friend's baby that fell asleep in my arms for two hours and who's snore was the loudest part of the service, was…

Jason & Erin Davis

Sunday Encouragement and Monday Kiddos
Sunday Encouragment: Yesterday we witnessed a wonderful testimony by one of the church leaders from the Kampande church. Aaron was preaching about the blessings that come with being in the Light and focused on the blessing of not having to live in fear of witchcraft, as many here do. He told us that his wife was having health problems recently so his mother-in-law advised for their family to move because she believed there were too many witches in the area and that is why Aaron's wife was having health…

1st First Year Reflection
A year ago Jason, Jeremy, Whitney, Sam, Ellie, and I all stepped off a plane into a foreign country with a new culture and language much different than our own to begin our two year apprentiships with Jason's uncle Brian and his wife Sondra. Our first year as apprentices has given us the freedom to learn about the culture, build relationships, and explore how our gifts can best be used to serve the Lord through our work with the Kanode people. Although this year has been filled with new and at times…

Fun in Livingstone!
Jason and I have spent the last few days with my parents in Livingstone. It was such a great trip filled with lots of fun and good family time. We went on a day safari at Chobe Naitonal Park, visited Victoria Falls (always seems as amazing as the first time I saw it), and went rafting on the Zambezi River. Mom and Dad left this morning to head back to Texas and Jason and I will head back to Mumena tomorrow morning. What a blessing it was to see my parents for a couple weeks. They were such troopers, it was…

MISSIONARY JOURNEY: Ellie Rodriguez

Brian — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 06:01:00 +0000

"Let the little children come to Me, and do not forbid them; for of such is the kingdom of heaven." Matthew 19:14 NKJV

Ellie has a heart big enough for every child she meets! And she sets up Bible studies with most of those. One of the big missionary skills that Ellie is mastering is that missionaries have to work through the hands of Christian adults in order for our works to be indigenous and sustainable. Add to this challenge the low level of literacy among our women of the Kaonde tribe, and one sees how difficult this task can be. A lack of literacy causes women to fear using the Bible; many would prefer Ellie to just teach the classes for the children. But Ellie has to use tough love to insist that the women of the church plants “stir up their gifts” and learn to teach their own children. Missionaries have to work ourselves out of a job. The gratifying aspect of this approach is twofold:

1. We will be able to reach another dark corner of the world with the light of the Gospel.

2. Long after we are gone, those we have trained will still be teaching the words of Jesus in their village!

Taking the long view,

Brian, Sondra, Noah, & Bryson

Pictured above: Ellie teaching ladies how to teach their own children from the Bible.

MISSIONARY JOURNEY: Whitney Davis

Brian — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 05:56:00 +0000

“If you had known Me, you would have known My Father also; from now on you know Him, and have seen Him." John 14:7 NASB

The first time I became aware of Whitney’s gifting in communication was with the myriad of communiqués that we had to process for the U.S. Ambassador to Zambia as he visited Mumena Christian Outreach Center. Among the Kaonde, communication hinges on relationships. As Christians, our communication with the Divine hinges on our covenant relationship with our Savior. It is always amazing to watch Whitney using her communication skills as she forms relationships with the lowliest to the greatest. Whitney has a gift for using those relationships for the missionary skill of introducing people to Jesus!

Building eternal relationships,

Brian, Sondra, Noah, & Bryson

Pictured above: Whitney greeting the U.S. Ambassador to Zambia.

MISSIONARY JOURNEY: Jeremy Davis

Brian — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 05:10:00 +0000

“And his disciples asked him, saying, What might this parable be?” Luke 8:9 KJV

One of the skills of a missionary that must be taught to an apprentice is “how to ask the right questions”. Jeremy is certainly gifted with this quality. I don’t believe that I have ever had so many books open at the same time - in order to answer Jeremy’s questions - as I have had over the last 11 months. Come to think of it, I don’t think that I have ever had as many of the books in my library on loan at one time as I have this year with Jeremy around! This insatiable desire to “know” is only matched by Jeremy’s passion to teach. And because he asks the right questions of the people in the village, Jeremy is mastering the missionary skill of “contextualization”… the finding of the right words in the local language and culture to communicate the Biblical meaning of a passage of scripture.

“For everyone who asks receives; he who seeks finds; and to him who knocks, the door will be opened.” Luke 11:10 NIV

Trying to keep up,

Brian, Sondra, Noah, & Bryson

Pictured above: Jeremy teaching in our annual Bible college for church leaders.

Love Family–Looking for Homeschool Teachers

Rick — Tue, 07 Feb 2012 08:39:00 +0000

We are looking for potential home school teachers to come and help us teach our children. Please, spread the word and share this with anyone who might be interested in coming to Mumena and living here for a period (3 months – 9 months).

All the information and an interest form is at this page on our family blog: http://lovefamilymissions.blogspot.com/p/home-school-teacher-for-our-children.html

Avocados

Erin — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 11:39:00 +0000

We have a huge avocado tree in our backyard the produces enough fruit to feed many families. At night Jason and I often wake up to loud thuds that come from the sometimes 1 lb avocados falling on the ground. One of my favorite parts about having the tree is little ones who often come to the door and politely ask if they can take some home. They load them up in their shirts and take off running with them, usually dropping a few along the way then running back to pick them up. It is about the cutest thing you could ever see. Today we had two groups of little ones coming to collect the green treats. Jason climbed up in the tree and knocked them down for them to catch and they were trilled! Just thought I would make a quick post to give a visual of the excitement something as simple as an avocado can cause!

Congregation Report–The Church at Kankuwa

Rick — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 17:30:00 +0000

The Christians at Kankuwa are excited about following Jesus and bringing others to Him.
For the past month, we have been practicing personal evangelism. During the weekly Bible study on Tuesday, each person takes a turn reading and leading a discussion as if he was teaching his family and friends in the village. They enjoy these practice sessions because it makes them see that each Christian has the ability to bring others to Christ. The men are learning how to teach other men and the women how to teach other women. Those who can read are willing to help those who can’t so they can both work together to reach others.
This is an exciting time to see how God is working through them. I have been working with Kankuwa for over three years. Through that time I have seen them grow from young Christians with much confusion, to soldiers of Christ who are willing to take a strong stand for Biblical truth.
For example, during the Bible study yesterday, I had little need to say much. As I was listening to them discuss the scriptures, I had a few different important thoughts to contribute. However, before I had a chance to say anything, one of them would make the same point.
I enjoy the encouragement and love that comes from brothers and sisters who are all trying to follow Christ together.
- Rick & Karen Love

Waiting

Jeremy and Whitney — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 09:42:00 +0000

I've been reading Mike Cope's book, Megan's Secrets. Mike Cope was the preacher for my church growingup and his wife was a mentor of mine. The book is about the life and death oftheir mentally disabled daughter and what she taught Mike about life. I haveenjoyed remembering Megan, who was just a couple years older than me. Iremember one time when my mom wanted me, as a 7 year old at the time, tounderstand God better, so she took me to stop by and visit Megan. I didn'tunderstand it at the time, I thought perhaps I was suppose to be “doing a gooddeed” for Megan. What I later realized was I was the one who was being taughtby Megan and by my mother. I had been the recipient of the good deed.

Mike refers to the idea of "waiting" in his book.I have been thinking about this idea of waiting this morning. Waiting issomething that our American culture struggles with—we’ve got to learn how towait, to practice waiting. As I look to see the fingerprints of God here in Zambia,in the Kaonde tribe, I notice that waiting is a God-given trait that they have accomplished.These people could wait all day long...and more. I have lived here for over a year now and am still shockedevery day by how they can wait. They don’t have vehicles so they don’t mindwaiting all day long for a taxi or for a truck to drive by that may or may not givethem a ride. They don’t mind waiting to start church for an hour or two if theyknow their family members are still on the way. They don’t mind waiting on foodto be prepared- every meal they eat takes about 1 ½ hours to prepare. So why isit that they can have the patience to wait and I can’t? I think of the verse inRomans, “Who hopes for what they already have? But if we hope for what we donot yet have, we wait for it patiently.” This is a gift that can go unseen, butit speaks to those who may have little possessions but have much to hope for. InMumena, Zambia there is a lot of waiting going on. I tell Jeremy over and over,I think what I have learned most (out of a very long list of things) has beenthe baby steps of learning patience and the art of waiting. Nothing happensfast here. We have had a broken truck for the past 6 months and guess what...itis still broken. It is a minor problem that could be fixed in the states withinone visit to Toyota, but not here. Even when Jeremy and I went to the capitalcity which is suppose to be modern, the power went off on us in a movie theater, our first chance to see a movie in a long, long time. It didn’t comeback on for several hours. I leaned over and told Jeremy, “if we were in the states,people would be extremely mad right now.”

I am thankful that God has me practicing patience, has mestopping to wait. After 4 pm here each day, everyone goes home to their huts inthe bush. All of the lights go off, and there is nothing left to do. Sometimesyou are just waiting for the night to be over and for day to begin again. Sodrastically different from my life at home. But wow, the blessings that havecome from that nothingness at night. I have spent more time with my husbandthan I ever had. I believe God has something to teach me through the Kaondepeople, just as he had something to teach me through the life of Megan Cope.These people that I live in community with hold the secret to waiting. They arewaiting for something better. If they do know the Lord, I’ll tell you they areminute-by-minute waiting on Him. What else is there for them here? This worldis not their home. There is the anticipation for something better.

“I wait for the Lord, my whole being waits, and in his wordI put my hope. I wait for the Lord more than watchmen wait for the morning.”Psalm 130:5-6

A few pictures of my flowers, planted back in November. Youhave to find a hobby here. This has been one of mine, and oh the joy that camein waiting! They are finally here and blooming!

Sunday Encouragement and Monday Kiddos

Erin — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 04:44:00 +0000

Sunday Encouragment:

Yesterday we witnessed a wonderful testimony by one of the church leaders from the Kampande church. Aaron was preaching about the blessings that come with being in the Light and focused on the blessing of not having to live in fear of witchcraft, as many here do. He told us that his wife was having health problems recently so his mother-in-law advised for their family to move because she believed there were too many witches in the area and that is why Aaron's wife was having health problems. With a joyful smile on his face he told us that he does not fear witchcraft and instead of moving to a new place he and his wife were turning to the Lord for care and comfort. What an encouragement it was to see the faithfulness of this church leader and his family.

Monday Kiddos:

One of my good friends here, who is a teacher, has been working very hard decorating the walls of her classroom so I wanted to show my appreciation for her devotion to her classroom by stopping by this morning to visit her and her kiddos. The children in her class are so obedient and respectful of visitors. When I walked in they stood up and said in unison, "Good Morning Madam." As I sat for a short while I took a few pictures of some of the sweet faces that are influenced by this devoted teacher everyday. I am so thankful for Zambian teachers who truly want to make a change in the lives of the children they teach.

Happy Monday from Mumena!

Growing in the Bush

Jeremy and Whitney — Wed, 18 Jan 2012 23:14:00 +0000

As I am feeling a bit sentimental about passing up our one year mark in Zambia, I thought today I would share a bit about our experience with the Mushingashi church. It's hard to believe we have already lived here throughout a full year. When we arrived in Zambia last January, our team divided out church plants that we would all work with. One of the churches Jeremy and I were assigned was Mushingashi. They were struggling and needed encouragement- strung out in the bush and isolated, poor leadership within the congregation and struggling with extreme mental poverty. In the coming months, the seed that had been planted within the church was growing. Two of the leaders were able to come to our month long seminar for all church leaders. At the seminar last April, the oldest church leader present and one of the Mushingashi leaders, Ezron, stood up and said he was convicted. He looked around at his 40 other Kaonde brothers and said, "We have got to start relying on God. We cannot rely on the mzungu (white person) anymore. We are not beggars." From there, things changed at Mushingashi. They felt a sense of ownership and excitement. We have been joining them in weekly Bible studies for one year now, and there are about 4 men and 4 women who are there every time. Now, one year later, they have their church built, with their own sweat and tears. Yesterday at our Bible study we finally felt ready to go down the road, even more into the bush, to a new place which is hoping to hear the gospel. In two weeks, Jeremy and I will go with the Mushingashi church on a journey to preach the good news to a new people. What joy it is to see a church ready to take the word to a new place and start up a Bible study in a village that could eventually turn in to its own church. I was feeling overwhelmed yesterday, as I sat surrounded by my brothers and sisters. Thinking back over the year, I looked around the room at the beautiful, dedicated sons and daughters of a King. One year ago, we were unsure if the church in Mushingashi would last, and now they are going out to help form new churches. The Lord is faithful.

Mushingashi's church hut

Ezron sweeping the floor, preparing for Bible study

the faithful women

Team Blog Summary – December 2011

Rick — Mon, 16 Jan 2012 11:46:00 +0000

Here is a summary of our team’s blogs for December. Click on a title to go to the full article.

Brian & Sondra Davis

MISSIONARY JOURNEY: Jason Davis, apprentice
“and all the people came early in the morning to hear him at the temple.” Luke 21:38 NIV An apprentice has to choose a mentor. (I am always humbled when someone puts that level of trust in my hands.) Apprentices also get to choose when they will accept mentoring. Jason has a habit of showing up early in the morning. This impresses me to no end! Not only does he understand the finer points of coffee consumption, but frankly, my mind works better in…

MISSIONARY JOURNEY: Mentoring
“What you have heard me teach publicly you should teach to others. Share these teachings with people you can trust. Then they will be able to teach others these same things.” 2 Timothy 2:2 ERV One of the great joys of missionary life is when one gets the opportunity to mentor an apprentice over a 2 year period. I was fortunate to have this experience in my formation as a young missionary and have endeavored to return the favor. Prior to this year, I have…

MISSIONARY JOURNEY: Servant hood Leadership
“…and whosoever would be first among you, shall be servant of all.” Mark 10:44 ASV Every once in a while, a missionary gets to see the fruit. While at a women’s Bible school training seminar among the Congolese refugees, we witnessed Congolese church leaders cooking and preparing a meal for the ladies of the congregation. They had built their little grass kitchen, prepared a traditional meal, and even washed all of the dishes. After the seminar, I asked the…

Rick & Karen Love

Needed: Home School Teacher
We just put up some information about our need for a home school teacher for our children. You might be interested or know someone else who could do this. Please see the following page for more information: Home School Teacher for Our Children

Pigs, Prayer, Praise, and Power
Our growing family is healthy and growing well. Caleb now has two and a half teeth and I call him our little snagle tooth. Even with teeth coming in for the most part he's a very contented little boy. Emily is well also. She's our little pink, poofy dress, wedding veil (piece of old mosquito net), princess shoes, singing, little darling. She loves to put layer upon layer upon layer of skirts (in the middle of our hot season) to make her dresses as big as possible. But under all those layers of…

Jeremy & Whitney Davis

Christmas or “Kimishish” in KiKaonde
We are two weeks shy of having lived in Zambia for one year.That is so hard to believe. Part of me feels like we just got here and anotherpart of me feels like I can’t even remember what carpet looks like or what DietCoke tastes like. Anyways, this post is not about our one year mark, that willcome later. Jeremy and I have been married for three years now, and wehave only been home for one Christmas so far in our marriage. Our Jamaican honeymoonfell on Christmas and now our third Christmas together…

Three Years
Three years ago today, I became Mrs. Jeremy Davis! It has been an incredible three years. I am blessed and so thankful. How do you put in to words what your marriage means to you? I don't know, but these three years have been the years I've loved the most and grown the most. We are blessed.

Fields and Christmas
After the day I had yesterday I am so grateful for a God that is so much bigger than me. I am thankful for his hand which is stretched out over those I cannot reach and over things I simply do not and will not understand. I am thankful that he is with my 91 year old grandmother as she fights back pains in Rome, GA and is having to take an unexpected 30 day stint in a live-in rehab to heal. I miss her and wish I could sit with and listen to her stories to pass the time, but God is there. On the opposite end…

Sunday Blessings
Yesterday we had a full and rewarding day. Jason, Erin,Jeremy and I all set off for the refugee camp for church. We were going toworship at Rd. 68 church because one of Jeremy and Jason’s close friends hadjust lost his baby. Very tragic situation, but all too common in Zambia. The service was great as usual. Rd. 68 church of Christ isone of the oldest churches we have worked with, and they are all Congolese.They get VERY involved in worship: loud clapping like you’ve never heard beforeand singing…

Jason & Erin Davis

Mini Update
It has been quite a while since we have given an update. We have been very busy lately having fun with my visiting parents and holiday festivities. Here a few pictures from the past few weeks! We have been having some beautiful sunsets! Ellie hosted a missionary ladies tea time a few days before Christmas. She made each of us our own little gingerbread dolls that had different hair colors. We had to go around to each doll to find our where we were sitting based on the doll that looked like us! So…

Newsletter!!
After several days of technical difficulties we were finally able to send out a new newsletter! Here it is...click on an image of a page then right click and choose "view image." That will open the image to a widow where you will automatically have the magnifying glass as your cursor. Use the magnifying glass tool to zoom in and read the articles. I hope that isn't too confusing. If it is, comment on the bottom with your email address so we can add you to our email list! Happy Holidays from…

1st First Year Reflection

Erin — Sun, 15 Jan 2012 12:12:00 +0000

A year ago Jason, Jeremy, Whitney, Sam, Ellie, and I all stepped off a plane into a foreign country with a new culture and language much different than our own to begin our two year apprentiships with Jason's uncle Brian and his wife Sondra. Our first year as apprentices has given us the freedom to learn about the culture, build relationships, and explore how our gifts can best be used to serve the Lord through our work with the Kanode people. Although this year has been filled with new and at times difficult experiences, God has blessed us throughout with his steadfast love and mercy. This month we hope to make a few blog posts with refelctions of our first year. Here is our 1st first year reflection:

Some of the ladies from the Kampande congregation

This morning Jason and I rode our bikes to worship with the Kampande congregation, whom we have spent many Sunday's with other the past year. I remember sitting with our team around this time last year talking about the congregations we were the most interested in getting to know. Jason and I were eager to worship with and encourage our brothers and sisters at Kampande because Jason knew he would be working in Ag projects on-site and they are the second closest congregation to the outreach center. Kampande is a small group made up of some of the most loving and humble people Jason and I have had the privilege of working with. They have faithful leaders and a wonderful group of devoted women. In the coming year they really want to work at reaching out to the lost in their community and want to grow in their knowledge of how to best reach them. This morning the church discussed having a once a month campfire devotional where they could invite their friends and family. We are very excited about this program being carried out. Hopefully over the next year we will have updates about seeds being planted by the Kampande church members!

Guest Post!

Jeremy and Whitney — Sat, 14 Jan 2012 22:08:00 +0000

I haven't been the best blogger since the new year, but there are reasons for that. Jeremy and I were stuck in Lusaka, Zambia's capital city, last week with some truck problems with Toyota. So, I will be catching up this week. However, I wanted to share Brian Davis' post he wrote for our team blog last week. Brian is my husband's uncle and our mentor since we have arrived on the field. He has been a missionary in Africa for many, many years. This blog post is just too good not to share. Enjoy!

Team Work, by Brian Davis

“… neither shall ye defile yourselves with any manner of creeping thing that creepeth upon the earth.” Leviticus 11:44 KJV

Our apprenticeship team work skills were put to the test recently when Whitney came from our boys room and mentioned that she had just seen the largest wall spider in her life. As the old missionary, I condescendingly told her that “wall spiders are our friends”. That is missionary speak for “Whitney, get a grip.” However, when Noah & Bryson began “ooing and ahing”, I thought that I had better check it out. To my surprise a King Baboon Tarantula was perched high up on the boys’ bathroom wall. Now we had a problem.

Surrounded by able bodied apprentices, I felt a bit put upon when they looked to me, the mentor, for the proper response. Theologically believing that all arachnids are a direct result of the fall of man, I was none too happy about having to demonstrate my superior missionary skills in this particular situation. Add to this that our “Ag apprentice” (Jason) is also a firm believer in the un-holiness of all spiders, and my back-up troops were thinning. Taking my favorite fly swatter (steel reinforced with leather covering), Jason helped me up on to the bath room counter top… after which he promptly left the room. As Sondra mentored Erin on how to give lots of advice from the adjoining room, I approached within striking distance of the tarantula. Striking it with all of my force, I managed to send the thing flying across the room towards Sondra and Erin. (Enter Jeremy with his high school football ethic kicking-in.) Grabbing a 5 gallon bucket, Jeremy managed to catch the beast on the fly – and in one fluid movement, dumped it into the commode.

I don’t remember who flushed – God bless them – as I was struggling with a series of shiver spasms. Whitney, bless her heart, was desperately trying to suppress her gag reflex. And as Sondra and Erin struggled with their feelings of “If he had done it correctly, it would NOT have come flying towards us!”, I thought to myself, “What a team!”

Congregation Report - Mumbezhi Church of Christ

Rick — Sat, 14 Jan 2012 07:59:00 +0000

This year we have tried to stress the need for each congregation to grow via evangelism. In a land where truth is relative and ecumenicalism is embraced as “right”, evangelism pushes people out of their comfort zone. Thus accepting this great work of the church is a challenge for our young church plants.

The Mumbezhi congregation is actually outside of the Mumena Chieftaincy and is pretty far out in the bush. The majority are from different tribes, Lunda and a few Congolese. Mumbezhi, however, has been excited about evangelism. After teaching about the Gospel for several months, one Sunday when we arrived the congregation announced that 11 people wanted to put on Jesus in baptism. What a joy!

We pray that all of our young churches will grow in this value and skill.
- Brian & Sondra

MISSIONARY JOURNEY: Erin Davis

Brian — Wed, 11 Jan 2012 05:47:00 +0000

“but as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord .” Joshua 24:15 KJV

In a land ruled by fear of the dead members of one’s own family, one of the first tasks of the missionary is to help establish Christian homes. Erin has a passion for helping families along the journey of becoming more Christ-like day by day. Conversion to the Lordship of Christ is just the first step. Letting Christ permeate our most private relationships and thoughts is a lifelong process. One of the missionary skills Erin has been studying is how to challenge a “pagan worldview” (how a culture in the world views reality) with the worldview of the culture of God. This is a particularly difficult skill to become comfortable with because we as missionaries have to hold up our own cultural worldview to God’s way of seeing reality in order to help another culture do the same. This skill is important because if a person isn’t thinking within the parameters of what God says is real, a person will be hard pressed to make a faith decision concerning those divine realities. What all missionaries ultimately discover is that it is just as painful for a missionary to go through this as it is for a lost person to go through it.

“And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free." John 8:32 NKJV

It is absolutely worth it, though!

Brian, Sondra, Noah, & Bryson

Pictured above: Erin teaching ladies about the first family.

MISSIONARY JOURNEY: Apprenticeship Team Work

Brian — Tue, 03 Jan 2012 23:26:00 +0000

“… neither shall ye defile yourselves with any manner of creeping thing that creepeth upon the earth.” Leviticus 11:44 KJV

- Brian

Pictured above: Citharischius crawshayi (bites cause sharp pain accompanied with hallucinations)

Fun in Livingstone!

Erin — Tue, 03 Jan 2012 11:11:00 +0000

Jason and I have spent the last few days with my parents in Livingstone. It was such a great trip filled with lots of fun and good family time. We went on a day safari at Chobe Naitonal Park, visited Victoria Falls (always seems as amazing as the first time I saw it), and went rafting on the Zambezi River. Mom and Dad left this morning to head back to Texas and Jason and I will head back to Mumena tomorrow morning. What a blessing it was to see my parents for a couple weeks. They were such troopers, it was their first trip overseas and coming to Zambia isn't the easiest first overseas travel experience. I miss them both already but am so thankful for the time we had together this month! Here a few pictures from the safari and rafting.

Rafting on the Zambezi River:

It is high water season right now so we had to get out and walk around one of the rapids (it was a class 6). The rest of the 18 rapids ranged from class 3-5. Lots of fun!

We love this picture because Dad claims when we flipped on this rapid Jason pushed him in...in-law abuse. From the looks of this picture (Jason and Dad are in the front) that may have just happened! Mom is in the back next the guide and I am behind Jason...falling to what felt like a near death experience.

The arm you see sticking up in the middle is mine. This photo was taken just before the raft landed on my head and I was trapped underneath the boat until the guide pulled me out. That was a first! : ) But we all survived and have some great memories!

Zambian New Years

Jeremy and Whitney — Tue, 03 Jan 2012 04:26:00 +0000

New Years is the Kaonde tribe's most important holiday of the year. Jeremy and I spent New Years day celebrating with Konkwa church. We woke up early to begin our bicycle ride to Konkwa to join them in their worship service. The church service was encouraging for Jeremy and I. At the end of the four hour service, everyone was still very attentive. My favorite part, besides my sweet friend's baby that fell asleep in my arms for two hours and who's snore was the loudest part of the service, was when it came time for the church to reflect on what they are thankful for. They each take a moment to stand up from the small log they are using for a seat to share how God has blessed them in the past year. It is humbling when you watch the oldest mama in the church quietly stand in her place and speak to the group about her blessings. She is well in to her 80s, walks two miles to church every morning and has outlived most of her children. Yet she is thankful for family and for a God that she is faithful to every Sunday. It was a pretty amazing moment.
After service, it was time to eat. The pictures can tell the rest of the story. There are thankful, happy people all over the world. God is working, even in places where we might feel a bit uncomfortable with the living conditions or where poverty strikes hard. Thank you for praying for our Zambian brothers and sisters. Happy New Year!

Here's my sweet snoring boy, Neva.

Nshema and beans!!

Washing hands for lunch.

Good friends

Christmas or “Kimishish” in KiKaonde

Jeremy and Whitney — Wed, 28 Dec 2011 08:26:00 +0000

We are two weeks shy of having lived in Zambia for one year.That is so hard to believe. Part of me feels like we just got here and anotherpart of me feels like I can’t even remember what carpet looks like or what DietCoke tastes like. Anyways, this post is not about our one year mark, that willcome later.

Jeremy and I have been married for three years now, and wehave only been home for one Christmas so far in our marriage. Our Jamaican honeymoonfell on Christmas and now our third Christmas together has been spent inAfrica. It’s hard to get into the Christmas spirit when you are constantlysweating from the heat and you are outside planting flowers. It did not feelreal to me until Christmas Eve, when our team shared in a Christmas dinner anda game of charades together. Every year the Davis family plays a game ofcharades in Ooltewah, TN, so, since three out of the five families on our teamhere are Davis’s we decided to carry on the tradition. It was a fun night, andErin’s parents were our special guests as they are here visiting.

Christmas day was bittersweet. It finally hitme that Christmas was here, and we weren’t home for it. However, I am SOthankful for technology. We were able to talk to our parents and did someskyping. I was able to chat with my sweet grandmother, who sang me Christmascarols over the phone for about 15 minutes. Jeremy and I had presents to open(we received amazing care packages from our parents). We went to Konkwa churchthat morning which is about a 30 minute walk from here. We walked to church,and Jeremy preached on the meaning of Christmas. Which looks a lot different inZambia, than it probably did at our churches back home. In Zambia, New Years isthe big holiday and the churches will come together to celebrate and cook a bigmeal. Christmas is not celebrated as much in the villages.

Jeremy and I then came home and rested before we startedcooking for our meal we were having that night with Jason, Erin and herparents. We concluded the night with some fireworks with the kids on our team.

We missed home very much. But, we definitely appreciate all that we have so much more being here. I hope everyone back home had a Merry Christmas! Thank you forkeeping us in your prayers.

Here are a couple of pictures from Erin's camera, I forgot to use mine over the holidays.

Having a Christmas ladies tea, hosted by Mrs. Ellie.

Christmas Eve with the whole team

Mini Update

Erin — Wed, 28 Dec 2011 05:07:00 +0000

It has been quite a while since we have given an update. We have been very busy lately having fun with my visiting parents and holiday festivities. Here a few pictures from the past few weeks!

We have been having some beautiful sunsets!

Ellie hosted a missionary ladies tea time a few days before Christmas. She made each of us our own little gingerbread dolls that had different hair colors. We had to go around to each doll to find our where we were sitting based on the doll that looked like us! So cute!

Our favorite cook, Mrs. Ellie!

Caleb Love was the only boy allowed at tea time...

All the ladies including our special visitor, my Mom!

Mom has been teaching art classes since she as been here. Everyone is loving it!

Christmas Eve charades night with the team.

That is all for now. Hopefully in the next week or so we will have some time to blog more! Hope you had a merry Christmas!

MISSIONARY JOURNEY: Jason Davis, apprentice

Brian — Tue, 27 Dec 2011 23:20:00 +0000

“and all the people came early in the morning to hear him at the temple.” Luke 21:38 NIV

An apprentice has to choose a mentor. (I am always humbled when someone puts that level of trust in my hands.) Apprentices also get to choose when they will accept mentoring. Jason has a habit of showing up early in the morning. This impresses me to no end! Not only does he understand the finer points of coffee consumption, but frankly, my mind works better in the morning these days. Some apprentices are more comfortable in the public meeting arena. But Jason specializes in the small group and one-on-one teaching experience. Jason’s efforts in Christian stewardship and development are greatly aided by this approach. One of the missionary skills enshrined in our team strategy is “The point of greatest transformational leverage is a transformed person.” Jason has witnessed the power of this principle and is building on it!

"You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden.” Matthew 5:14 NIV

Humbled,

Brian, Sondra, Noah, & Bryson

Pictured above: Jason interacting with one of God’s creatures.

MISSIONARY JOURNEY: Mentoring

Brian — Tue, 20 Dec 2011 23:23:00 +0000

“What you have heard me teach publicly you should teach to others. Share these teachings with people you can trust. Then they will be able to teach others these same things.” 2 Timothy 2:2 ERV

One of the great joys of missionary life is when one gets the opportunity to mentor an apprentice over a 2 year period. I was fortunate to have this experience in my formation as a young missionary and have endeavored to return the favor. Prior to this year, I have been privileged to mentor 10 amazing apprentices. I am currently mentoring 6 very special people here in Mumena. I want to devote the next few Journey’s to these couples as they are accepting the challenge to be entrusted with the building blocks of eternity!

Privileged,

Brian, Sondra, Noah, & Bryson

P.S. Happy Holidays!

Pictured above: Our missionary team (apprentices underlined). [from left to right] Sam & Ellie Rodriguez, Whitney & Jeremy Davis, Karen & Rick Love, Erin & Jason Davis, Brian & Sondra Davis

Missionary kids [from left to right]: Matthew Love, Emily Love, Lydia Love, Bryson Davis, Noah Davis, Caleb Love

Three Years

Jeremy and Whitney — Mon, 19 Dec 2011 20:51:00 +0000

Three years ago today, I became Mrs. Jeremy Davis! It has been an incredible three years. I am blessed and so thankful. How do you put in to words what your marriage means to you? I don't know, but these three years have been the years I've loved the most and grown the most. We are blessed.

Needed: Home School Teacher

Rick — Mon, 19 Dec 2011 06:57:00 +0000

We just put up some information about our need for a home school teacher for our children. You might be interested or know someone else who could do this. Please see the following page for more information:Home School Teacher for Our Children

MISSIONARY JOURNEY: Servant hood Leadership

Brian — Mon, 19 Dec 2011 03:09:00 +0000

“…and whosoever would be first among you, shall be servant of all.” Mark 10:44 ASV

Every once in a while, a missionary gets to see the fruit. While at a women’s Bible school training seminar among the Congolese refugees, we witnessed Congolese church leaders cooking and preparing a meal for the ladies of the congregation. They had built their little grass kitchen, prepared a traditional meal, and even washed all of the dishes. After the seminar, I asked the women what they thought of the servant hood leadership of their church. To which they responded, “Well, they aren’t very good cooks… but we really enjoyed not having to wash the dishes!”

O.K. Next lesson series: gratitude.

Step by step,

Brian, Sondra, Noah, & Bryson

Pictured above: Congolese church leaders serving a meal to the ladies of the congregation!

Fields and Christmas

Jeremy and Whitney — Tue, 13 Dec 2011 05:53:00 +0000

After the day I had yesterday I am so grateful for a God that is so much bigger than me. I am thankful for his hand which is stretched out over those I cannot reach and over things I simply do not and will not understand. I am thankful that he is with my 91 year old grandmother as she fights back pains in Rome, GA and is having to take an unexpected 30 day stint in a live-in rehab to heal. I miss her and wish I could sit with and listen to her stories to pass the time, but God is there. On the opposite end of the world, I am thankful for how God is working in Mumena. He has been here, and he always will be.

Yesterday after a few morning chores, I went to visit a family in their village. One quick, 15 minute bike ride away. When I arrived, only the grandmother was still sitting under the kensanza, and I figured the parents and kids were in their field. The grandmother sent me out with her niece to get to my friend's field. After a long, sketchy walk through the bush, we arrived in an open field where I saw the family all out working. I was happy to be alive at that point, because we walked through grass that was as high as my waist. As I began walking through the field to meet up with the parents, all the little boys starting yelling "WHIT-I-NEY, WHIT-I-NEY!!" We turn my name into 3 syllables here because it is a lot easier to say for everyone. I LOVE hearing those boys call my name so loudly, nothing can make your heart melt more. My friends, Cosmas and Josephine handed me a hoe, and I joined them in their planting. They had arrived at the field that morning at 7 am. When I had found them it was 2 pm, and they had no plans to leave anytime soon. They had not eaten and just planned to make a meal once they finished for the day. About two hours later, it began to rain pretty hard, and I knew it would be getting dark in a couple of hours, and I should begin the path back to find my bike and then ride on home before it flooded. The kids were tired and ready to head home too, so they escorted me back to their house where my bike was. We then began the "high grass"walk back to the village. It started raining even harder, and the boys couldn't stop laughing because we were all soaked. I was laughing but also a bit terrified that between the 2, 5 and 6 year olds traveling with me--one of them was going to get bit by a snake, I was just sure of it. Of course, they make these journeys every single day. We all made it back to the village safe and wet.

Once I finally made it home and got in bed I couldn't help thinking about all of the decisions I get to make in life and the choices I have. My sweet friends would be up at 6 am the next morning to spend the day in the field all over again. There is so much to be thankful for. Although this is the way I perceive my life and theirs, God is right there in the middle of their lives as well making things happen. We are blessed.

In other news...just in case, you were curious what our house looks like at Christmas time, here are the pictures to document Jeremy and I's Christmas in Zambia.

There's our Christmas open house. Quite cozy :)

Pigs, Prayer, Praise, and Power

Rick — Mon, 12 Dec 2011 03:28:00 +0000

Our growing family is healthy and growing well.

Caleb now has two and a half teeth and I call him our little snagle tooth. Even with teeth coming in for the most part he's a very contented little boy.

Emily is well also. She's our little pink, poofy dress, wedding veil (piece of old mosquito net), princess shoes, singing, little darling. She loves to put layer upon layer upon layer of skirts (in the middle of our hot season) to make her dresses as big as possible. But under all those layers of princessy hoopla she loves to get down and dirty and play in the rain, or make all sorts of mud cakes and what not in our back yard sand box.

Lydia's our little animal lover. I can see her when she grows up becoming either a park ranger or a "save the whale" type person. Well, in her case it's "save the baby kittens from the overly loving clutches of her little two year old sister".

Matthew has been on break from school dew to a variety of reasons. We've had to make a trip to Lusaka to take care of Caleb's papers. Rick or I having to take care of different duties around here so Matthew with a big smile willingly gave up some of his school time to play with his friends. He's so heart broken. ;) He's a good student and is learning very well. But like any normal six year old boy he'd prefer climbing trees, wrestling with his friends fighting "bad guys", or splashing through mud puddles and playing in the mud.

Rick has been our electrical hero. Almost every day our house gets brown-outs for about two hours in the evenings. He was able to fix it as of yesterday. It's nice to be able to flip on a light switch whenever I walk into a room or not have to worry about my electric burners turning off right in the middle of my supper preparations. The kids will be happy to not have to take a bath by candle-light either. "Thank you daddy," as the kids told him yesterday.

I'm my usual self. Cooking, changing diapers, playing, cooking some more… I did get out the Christmas decorations earlier this week and we decorated our Christmas tree. The kids sure enjoyed helping. Now, for those of you who read the subject and may be wondering what pigs, prayer, praise, and power mean I'll tell you.

Pigs: we have now officially become pig farmers. We have started a sustainable animal farming method that can really help the local villager. We have our first pig (named Kelly by Lydia) and just five days ago, she gave birth to little piglets. They are so cute to watch and their mama Kelly is a good mother.

However, two days ago we had a little scare. Two year old Emily decided to sneak out the house and follow big brother who feeds Kelly because she wants to pet one of the baby pigs. Before Matthew could stop her Emily had climbed the fence and toppled head first into the pig pen. Thankfully one of Matthew's friends was with him and jumped in and got Emily. She was ok except that her pride was hurt. She got a little more hurt when Mama scolded her for going to the pig pen without mommy or daddy. I think she learned her lesson.

Prayer/praise: We have a friend who has been away from the Lord doing evil things and has been trying to hurt the Lord's work here for some time now. We have been praying that his life would change. It did, and I am happy to say for the better. He had stolen thousands of dollars, had been abusing his family, and spreading lies about our team. A few weeks ago he told lies about one of our teammates and it was brought to court. Needless to say, God shined like a light in the dark. The judge, the chief and everyone else saw the truth. And even local villagers would leave early in the morning on the number of court days and walk all the way to the court to show support for our teammate. Through all this our friend saw Christ and had a change of heart. He now wants to pay off his debt, reunite his family and come back to the Lord. Praise the Lord from whom all blessings flow.

Power: I already wrote about how Rick has fixed part of our electrical power problem and boy are we thankful.

- Karen

Team Blog Summary–November 2011

Rick — Mon, 12 Dec 2011 03:10:00 +0000

Here is a summary of our team’s blogs for November. Click on a title to go to the full article.

Team

Congregation Report - Kayonge Church of Christ

Congregation Report - Mushingashi Church of Christ

Congregation Report - Mutanda Church of Christ and Kanda-kanda Preaching Point

Rick & Karen Love

Love Family Blog

We decided to start our family blog back up and separate it from the team blog. This will give a space to put our family news up that may not be relevant to our work as missionaries.

Raining in Zambia

Greetings from a very wet Zambia. The rainy season is now in full force. Everything is starting to turn into a beautiful deep green and flowers are blooming every where. We're doing ok. The power has been out for some time though and I hope it comes on soon. Also, our back-up solar on our house has stopped working properly. The solar batteries have gotten too old. This having to use candle light at night isn't always the most ideal way of having fun. (Batteries for flash lights are very expensive…

Jeremy & Whitney Davis

Mumena in November

New Season

The rains are definitely here. The past few days it has rained constantly, especially at night, which I love. It always makes me think of my momma and grandmother, hearing the rain hit so hard on our roof—they always enjoyed listening to rainstorms under a tin sheet porch. Who knew that one day that would be what my roof is made of. Here are some pictures showing some of the perks of the rainy season. Since the ground is still really tough, we will wait until the end of the month to plant and garden, so I…

Quick Update

Rainy Season Adventures

Happy Thanksgiving!

We had a great Thanksgiving in Mumena with our team and our special guest, Chief Mumena! All of the ladies had previously met to divide up who cooks what, and we ended up with a very, VERY good meal. I was feeling especially thankful that day for our Chief who is so supportive of our team. I was so glad he came to share in our tradition. I was also so thankful for our families many, many miles away and our amazing supporters back home. We are so blessed! We had the honor of being responsible for cooking…

Jason & Erin Davis

Shiny and Smooth Mud Floor

Give Thanks Unceasingly

"...for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or want. I can do all this through him who gives me strength." -Philippians 4:11-13 Content, peaceful, thankful. These three words could be described as emotions, adjectives, and gifts. You can't have one without the other. Can you be…

The Heart of a Preacher, First Blooms, and Birthday Wishes!

Insta-Mumena Part II

Although I have put intagramming on the back burner a bit the past couple of weeks I do have a couple of photos and one horrific story to tell: Welcome to our front yard: Lake front living; it's quite luxurious! Care packages: My sister and brother-in-law are some of the world's greatest care package givers. They always manage to fit more in one box than I thought possible and send wonderful goodies. Maeci does have an advantage above many when it comes to care packages because she sent them…

Thanksgiving in Mumena

We had a great first thanksgiving meal in Mumena yesterday. So much to be thankful for! Here are a few pictures! Turkeys at the grocery store here cost over $50 so we had home grown turkeys to eat! The turkey roasting team The Davis Families Chief Mumena stopped by to take part in the yummy food Lydia Love The Chief's yellow bug! Caleb and Emily Love. I think Caleb was wondering where all the turkey went. It was a new experience being away from family on Thanksgiving but…

Newsletter!!

Erin — Sun, 11 Dec 2011 01:16:00 +0000

After several days of technical difficulties we were finally able to send out a new newsletter! Here it is...click on an image of a page then right click and choose "view image." That will open the image to a widow where you will automatically have the magnifying glass as your cursor. Use the magnifying glass tool to zoom in and read the articles. I hope that isn't too confusing. If it is, comment on the bottom with your email address so we can add you to our email list! Happy Holidays from Mumena!

Sunday Blessings

Jeremy and Whitney — Mon, 05 Dec 2011 02:21:00 +0000

Yesterday we had a full and rewarding day. Jason, Erin,Jeremy and I all set off for the refugee camp for church. We were going toworship at Rd. 68 church because one of Jeremy and Jason’s close friends hadjust lost his baby. Very tragic situation, but all too common in Zambia.

The service was great as usual. Rd. 68 church of Christ isone of the oldest churches we have worked with, and they are all Congolese.They get VERY involved in worship: loud clapping like you’ve never heard beforeand singing until they sweat. After church, two of the young men who had comefor the Congolese seminar last month asked to be baptized by their mentor John,who is also Congolese. We were excited to tag along.

After worship, Jeremy and I were dropped off at Kayongechurch to help them complete their building. They had been saving money andresources for almost a year now and the day had finally come. The men spent theafternoon putting on the roof, and I was able to spend some down time with thewomen that attend Kayonge. It was an important step in our ongoing relationshipwith the church, and I was humbled to see the time and effort they put in totheir meeting place. The ladies had even planted flowers on either sides of thefront door.

It was a full day out. In Zambian time that may only be 10hours, but for a non-Zambian who is immersed in a different culture, it feelsas if you’ve been without sleep for two days straight. We came home veryfulfilled but very tired and went straight to bed.

Happy Thanksgiving!

Jeremy and Whitney — Mon, 28 Nov 2011 07:19:00 +0000

We had the honor of being responsible for cooking one of the three turkeys. You can see who that responsibility fell to.

No football or TV is available here-so we settled for cards.

Lydia Love, seriously too cute.

Hope everyone had a Happy Thanksgiving!

Congregation Report - Mutanda Church of Christ and Kanda-kanda Preaching Point

Rick — Sun, 27 Nov 2011 01:10:00 +0000

The Mutanda church is partnering with us at Kanda-kanda, our new preaching point. We have been having Bible studies there for over four months now.

About two months ago, a man named Aaron was dying from tuberculosis, so we had some personal Bible studies with him. He wanted to become a Christian so he was baptized becoming the first Christian there. Since then he has been recovering from the tuberculosis and always attends the group Bible study. Then, three weeks ago, we started studying about obeying the gospel in the group study. After Bible study there was one person who was baptized. We repeated the study the next week and two more were baptized: One, the head man of the village, Mr. Kanda-kanda Pupe.

Now we have started a study of the church from the book of Acts. They want to begin meeting on Sundays and we encouraged them to do so, all on their own. Please keep these new babes in Christ and the work at Kanda-kanda in your prayers.

The Mutanda church has nearly finished the remodeling of their building. They have worked very hard to finish before there is too much rain. Even though they are busy, they have been faithful to help with planting a new congregation at Kanda-kanda. Thank God for these faithful Christians.

- Sam & Ellie

Thanksgiving in Mumena

Erin — Fri, 25 Nov 2011 11:22:00 +0000

We had a great first thanksgiving meal in Mumena yesterday. So much to be thankful for! Here are a few pictures!

Turkeys at the grocery store here cost over $50 so we had home grown turkeys to eat!

The turkey roasting team

The Davis Families

Chief Mumena stopped by to take part in the yummy food

Lydia Love

The Chief's yellow bug!

Caleb and Emily Love. I think Caleb was wondering where all the turkey went.

It was a new experience being away from family on Thanksgiving but we are so blessed to have a Mumena family to share holidays with!

Rainy Season Adventures

Jeremy and Whitney — Tue, 22 Nov 2011 22:03:00 +0000

Last week, we had a seminar for 6 young Congolese mentraining them how to be preachers. I won’t write much about that experience, but you can see Jason andErin’s blog as they tell more. However, one thing that happened proved to be very memorable. The last day they were here, we tookthem out to a Bible study in Mushingashi that go to every week. They were going to get a chance topractice preaching for this small congregation. So we all loaded up in the truck and headed off for the 40minute journey. As we turned offthe tarmac onto the dirt road, winds started picking up and lightning wasstreaking across the sky. Ourdestination was 8 km away through the forest. As the storm got bigger, the rain became heavy, the trees wereswaying back and forth, and limbs were flying everywhere as I was driving onthis now very slick mud road. Wefinally made it to the church and the storm had passed. We had a great Bible study and theyoung men did well.

However, it was the return trip that proved memorable. We made our way back down the muddyroad with debris on either side of us. Half way out of the woods, we came upon a tree fallen across theroad. So me and the six guysjumped out of the truck and were able to move this tree to the side for us topass. About a minute later, wecame upon another tree blocking our path that was a bit larger. However, with some effort we were ableto relocate the obstacle. Withonly about a quart of kilometer left to the exit, we were stopped yet again byanother tree. This time there wasa truck loaded with people coming the other direction that had begun to chopaway at the tree as it was quite large, about three feet in diameter. So after about 30 minutes the tree wasfinally chopped in half and it took 15 of us to push the huge trunk to the sidegiving just enough room for our truck to pass. We decided to let the other truck go first. As the truck maneuvered its way towardsthe opening it veered to the side of the road just a bit and both tires on theleft side of the truck just sunk straight down in the mud.

So the next 30 minutes we spent putting tree bark under thetires and all 20 of us pushing on the left side of the truck as it slung mudall over us to get unstuck. Afterseveral attempts it finally made its way out, and then I received one of thebiggest compliments I’ve ever had here. They called me a “muntu”, which when translated means “man”. This is a compliment because usually Iget called “mzungu” meaning “rich white man”. However, all the Kaonde people call themselves “muntu” andmake a clear distinction between the whites and the blacks. I guess since I was in there gettingjust as muddy as the rest of them, they for just a moment viewed me as one ofthem. Truly a memorablemoment. Thankful though forfour-wheel drive as I did not get stuck when passing!
-Jeremy

Congregation Report - Mushingashi Church of Christ

Rick — Mon, 21 Nov 2011 09:44:00 +0000

A church of about 15 adults mostly 50 year old and above, Mushingashi is a light in the middle of darkness. They have faithful members that day after day challenge the drunken atmosphere that surrounds them.

One of the recent highlights for them was the conversion of a Pentecostal leader who has a strong influence in this community. Lwendo came to worship one Sunday stating that, because of the longstanding relationship and Bible teaching he had encountered with these Christians, he was ready to join a family that was committed to following Christ and his word rather than the words of men at his previous church home.

Lwendo is a young and vibrant person with a heart to seek God’s kingdom. He is in a slave-like situation where he was convinced that if he worked, for free, for the “apostle” of the Pentecostal church that he was serving God. Consequently, this “apostle” doesn’t even allow Lwendo time to go to Bible study. He works him like a slave and is the richest person in the area. Lwendo has finally seen the lies through the persistence and outreach of the Christians in Mushingashi.

Pray for this church to continue to grow as it faces new persecutions as a local Pentecostal church has just lost their most vibrant leader.
- Jeremy & Whitney Davis

Raining in Zambia

Rick — Sun, 20 Nov 2011 17:59:00 +0000

Greetings from a very wet Zambia. The rainy season is now in full force. Everything us starting to turn into a beautiful deep green and flowers are blooming every ware.

We're doing ok. The power has been out for some time though and I hope it comes on soon. Also, our back-up solar on our house has stopped working properly. The solar batteries have gotten too old. This having to use candle light at night isn't always the most ideal way of having fun. (Batteries for flash lights are very expensive here.) Also if it doesn't come back on soon we'll be losing everything in our fridge. We go shopping only once every two weeks so our fridge is stocked up with supplies. We'll see. As it says in the book of James: "Count it all joy." also as we say on our team. To be a missionary you have to have a since of humor and you have to be able to bend as you face different aspects of life. So I smile as I write this paragraph to you. :)

The kids are doing well. The three older ones are thrilled with the rains coming. It means mud pies, and building cool roads in our big sand box in our back yard. Putting on their rain boots and splashing through the mud puddles. Or as our sweet little two year old Emily did during church services Sunday: Intentionally dip and slide (with a big smile on her face) through a big mud puddle. Needless to say we striped her down to her bare minimums in the car as we drove home after services.

Caleb is growing well. He's sitting up great and scoots around on his little back side. He keeps leaning forward to try to crawl but keeps landing right on his little face. "Sorry little fella. Don't worry, you'll get the hang of it soon enough." Then, we'll be chasing him through puddles as well.

Rick and I are well. No big news with us. We're trying to avoid mud puddles and the such although a few mornings ago little Lydia asked for Daddy to come out and make mud balls with her. So, as I fixed breakfast as Daddy and Lydia made mud balls and then splatted them on the ground. That's bush entertainment for you.:)

- Karen

Insta-Mumena Part II

Erin — Thu, 17 Nov 2011 12:36:00 +0000

Although I have put intagramming on the back burner a bit the past couple of weeks I do have a couple of photos and one horrific story to tell:

Welcome to our front yard:


Lake front living; it's quite luxurious!

Care packages:
My sister and brother-in-law are some of the world's greatest care package givers. They always manage to fit more in one box than I thought possible and send wonderful goodies. Maeci does have an advantage above many when it comes to care packages because she sent them to Daniel during his two 1 year deployments in Iraq. So she has had practice...I was extra excited about the packages received today because Maeci sent lots of zip lock bags. We re-use them here because you cannot get the durable clasp kind so we try to hold on to the "American" ones for as long as sanitarily tolerable. There were also many other GREAT goods inclosed but I took a picture with the baggies to show my sister just how happy I am! It's the simple things in life...

I HATE SPIDERS:
With these new rains comes a certain new type of spider (the rain/huntsman spider) that has been taunting me this week in the evenings. Twice I have reading on the couch and out of the corner of my eye I see something large moving very quickly. This "something large" has turned out the be the largest spider I have ever come in human contact with running around the living room specifically the coffee table in circles so fast that my eyes can hardly keep up. I immediately jump from the couch to the ottoman trying to stay out of the creepy crawler's or should I say sprinter's way while brainstorming how to get to the fly swatter. Well to make a long story short both nights this happened by the time I got to the swatter the obese yet highly athletic spider is no where to be found. But also on both nights, when it has been time for bed I have seen this same type of spider RUNNING HORIZONTALLY across the bedroom wall. At which point I close myself in the mosquito net and make Jason chase it down and kill it. Anyways, I have reason to believe there is a family of spiders living for the purpose of tormenting me. Below I drew a diagram of how large this type of spider is compared to my hand (this is to scale, not exaggerated, but they can get bigger, so I have now read). Also, thanks to pinterst I found a quote that perfectly describes this week's nights for me.

Hope you enjoyed this Insta-Mumena update. Have a happy day!

Love Family Blog

Rick — Thu, 17 Nov 2011 07:20:00 +0000

We decided to start our family blog back up and separate it from the team blog. This will give a space to put our family news up that may not be relevant to our work as missionaries.

The Heart of a Preacher, First Blooms, and Birthday Wishes!

Erin — Wed, 16 Nov 2011 02:07:00 +0000

It has been a great week so far. Sunday Jason and I visited the Rd. 68 congregation at the Maheba Refugee Settlement so we could transport a few young men back to Mumena for a preaching seminar Jason, Jeremy, and Brian have been teaching the past three days. I have sat in on a couple of Jason's classes and really enjoyed watching him strive to inspire these men while teaching about the "heart of a preacher." Jason has taught on the topics of love, humility, and lastly this morning, service.

Yesterday Whitney and I had a great time with Catherine, Rwidness, and Mariam. Catherine amazingly retold last week's story of Jacob and Esau almost word for word. We then studied Jacob's dream and had the girls draw a picture to help them remember the story. It brings so much delight to watch them laugh as they draw. When my Mom is here in December she is going to have an art class with them. They are very excited about it and I certainly can't wait to see how much fun they have learning to draw from a true artist.

Here is a picture of the bunch here for the seminar and a snap of one of the scriptures Jason used today in his lesson. "...serve one another humbly in love." (Galatians 5:13)

The consistent rains are here so we have had a couple blooms this week including our first rose in months! The goats now have new grass and leaves to snack on so our plants can actually grow leaves and petals.

That is all for this quick update. Except... Happy Birthday to my sweet, loving, caring, encouraging, compassionate, giving, and joyful Mother! You are amazing, love you so much and can't wait to give you a huge hug next month!

Quick Update

Jeremy and Whitney — Tue, 15 Nov 2011 23:37:00 +0000

Just wanted to show a few pictures today. I am so proud of my husband and how he handles his work and passion in Zambia. I am a blessed woman.
Here he is teaching some Congolese "youth" about serving and teaching the church. There are seven men who came early this week from the Maheba Refugee Camp, just 45 minutes away from us. They have been working with Brian, Jason and Jeremy (the 3 Davis men) on preparing lessons and learning how to use their Bibles to teach. These men are still considered "youth". You can have five children and a wife, but if you are 40 years or younger, then you are still youth. These young men will soon be filling the shoes of their elders as they get older, so our team is trying to help prepare them for the transition into church leadership.

On another note, it is still very hot in Zambia. Everyday, people anxiously await a rainfall so we can get some fresh, cool air. As I was passing the school building, I noticed they were having class outside, under the kensanza to try and get a break from the heat. You can see a storm rolling in behind them. How exciting!

Give Thanks Unceasingly

Erin — Sat, 12 Nov 2011 13:09:00 +0000

Content, peaceful, thankful. These three words could be described as emotions, adjectives, and gifts. You can't have one without the other. Can you be content and not thankful for ALL the blessings the Lord has given you? Can you be at peace but not be content with the spiritual, emotional, and physical aspects of your life?

One of the great blessings and struggles of living in another culture very far from home is you are removed from the false senses of peacefulness, contentment, and thankfulness. You are forced to seek and find these gifts through pursuing a deeper relationship with Christ who is the key to contentment.

I have learned that even if you have plenty as most of us do or if you have little as is the situation of most of those we live around, learning to be content is a tough journey. I have been on this journey a while now. But in the last month the Lord has really been working on my heart and exposed where I need growth in learning to be content and truly thankful. Philippains 4:13 is quoted often and used when teaching several topics. But I am most encouraged today to think of this verse in the context of contentment.

We can learn to be thankful and at peace with blessings we have been given. Because of the strength our Lord gives us we can choose to be content in EVERY situation. What would our day be like if we were constantly seeking a more grateful heart, looking for situations, events, people, and material blessings, past and present to thank God for? A day like this would leave us feeling content, at peace, and most of all thankful.

Thanksgiving is coming up and I always enjoy the opportunity to dwell specifically on thankfulness for a day (and of course I enjoy the pumpkin pie too). But this year God has put it on my heart that it is time to start a lifetime of seeking to dwell daily on thankfulness. I hope and pray many will be encouraged and inspired to think about daily thankfulness as this wonderful holiday approaches.

Congregation Report - Kayonge Church of Christ

Rick — Sat, 12 Nov 2011 09:49:00 +0000

The Kayonge church suffered a terrible split a year ago. Two of their church leaders gave themselves over to sin and left and took others with them.
Now, there are three men leading a small group of women and children. The church has been working really hard to finish their building. For the past eight months they had been meeting in the local school, but now they meet in the church building with an almost finished roof.
The church of Kayonge is committed and willing to suffer persecution for Christ. The five faithful women that attend are learning to teach their children in Sunday Bible class. The men are learning how to be more involved leaders and are gifted in teaching. They are self-supporting and are learning more and more about what real evangelism means. Whenever a visitor shows up for Sunday worship, the church leaders follow up with them for a weekly Bible study.
Please pray for strength for this faithful congregation.
- Jeremy & Whitney Davis

New Season

Jeremy and Whitney — Thu, 10 Nov 2011 21:21:00 +0000

Here are some pictures showing some of the perks of therainy season. Since the ground is still really tough, we will wait until theend of the month to plant and garden, so I don’t have pictures of flowers justyet. These will have to do.

Growing mangos in our yard

Language learning has been a constant struggle for me. Ilove and hate it all at the same time. Regardless of how I feel, the key to theheart is language. The people out here light up when they hear you speak theirlanguage. It is also much easier to understand their culture and ideas when youare hearing it straight from their mouth without interpretation. Much gets lostin translation. I can understand a lot more than I can say at this point, butit is so exciting when you can understand the main idea of a conversation inkikaonde. I have approached numerous methods to learning the Kaonde languageout here, but by far my favorite is learning from my friend out in her village,at her home. She is in the process of learning English. This makes it much morefun to learn from her because she is experiencing the same frustrations andjoys that I am at the same time. We are learning from each other, sentence bysentence. Today, I sat out in her village for about two hours. She would writedown a sentence in kikaonde, and I would write it in English. We both knowenough of each other’s language to get by working together and helping eachother. Her English is really progressing so she is able to put together simplesentences and verbs for me to practice. We laugh at each other a lot andcontinue to repeat the word “shupa” every couple of minutes. “Shupa” is a funnyKaonde word meaning stubborn or really difficult.

I was able to start back with Erin doing our usual Tuesdayafternoon girls Bible study, after being gone for two weeks. In the beginningwe had six girls, ages 12-16, coming, and occasionally we will have a weekwhere all of them show up, but more than half of the time there are only twogirls-but every week it is the same two. They never miss a Bible study, and weare seeing them grow and develop into beautiful young women. I pray that theirfaith continues to grow, and I hope they don’t give up the fire they have to learn.I love these sweet girls- Katherine and Rwidness. Even though our study issmall right now, one of the other village girls who is about 17, really wantsto be a part of it, but she has a baby and chores to do everyday so she can’tmanage to meet in the middle of the day. She always has to decline theinvitation to come, and I thought she just wasn’t interested. However, sheshowed up at my house a couple of days ago explaining why she can never comeand asking for a different time to meet. We will start meeting with her once aweek around 4 pm after she is done with her chores. Since a baby came in to herlife, she can no longer attend school. I am excited about this new opportunity!

Whitney

Mumena in November

Jeremy and Whitney — Thu, 03 Nov 2011 23:50:00 +0000

I am happy to inform you that we are back in Kaondeland, Mumena. We had a huge thunderstorm to welcome us back as we were going to sleep Wednesday night. Jeremy and I have a tin roof, so when the rain gets hard enough we literally have to yell at each other to communicate. It is pretty funny.

I loved getting back and seeing the sweet faces that we have been working with. I have a friend, Mesa, who is 17 or 18 years old and has an 18 month old baby. She spends each day hauling water for her family since she can no longer attend school, being a single mother. If she is not hauling water, she is cleaning or doing laundry by hand. Yesterday, she had two huge buckets of water she was carrying and dropped them when she saw me and came running to welcome me back. Her face was lit up, and she was excited to see "Mrs. Jeremy" again. I was humbled as I compared the past two weeks in Cape Town I had to what hers must have been like. Today, I will go to visit her as she sits and washes clothes- she is one determined teenager.

This month the Kaonde tribe of Mumena will begin working in their fields again to prepare for the rainy season. This is a busy month for them. The holiday season, I have heard, gets a bit slow due to people working and staying out in their fields.

Last night, Jason, Erin and I had a surprise birthday dinner and cake for Jeremy. His birthday was the 1st of November, but since we were traveling, I felt like we still lacked a celebration. It was a good night for the four of us to catch up and eat a cake mix and icing kit that came from South Africa!

Shiny and Smooth Mud Floor

Erin — Thu, 03 Nov 2011 06:04:00 +0000

Yesterday morning I ventured off a few miles toward the roadside on my little blue bicycle to spend some time with the sweet ladies from the congregation Jason and I work the closest with, Kampande. The Kampande church is such a wonderful and faithful group of believers. They recently put a new roof on their church building with iron sheets. Their old one was made of grass which was not completely leak proof during the rainy season. They are so excited about their new roof and have much reason to be considering they saved up their money to buy the sheets themselves. Iron sheets are very expensive around $13 a sheet and it took over 30 to cover the roof. Now that their roof is almost complete (just lacking the roof capping sheets) the women have started on re-doing the dirt floor. It is quite a long and tedious process but they have it down to a science. First they use a hoe to level the floor, then they wet it down with water and beat it with wooden planks to make the dirt stay hard and in place. Lastly they make a mix out of a clay like soil and cover the dirt floor in it which makes it nice and smooth. When they are completely finished I will post a picture of what it looks like. When Euttice told me at church on Sunday that they would be starting the floor on Wednesday I offered to help. Which brings us back to me riding my bicycle by myself up hill both ways to the church building. When I arrive only Euttice and Rwiness were there working. I arrived at 9:45am to see they had already been working for a while because the back half of the church building floor had already been worked on. I asked Euttice what time they started and she said "oh around 10." That is the trouble with telling time by the sun...it's hard to get it exact. My part in helping was when it came to hauling water from the pump near by. The ladies handed me the smallest container (holds about 2 1/2 gallons) and they took the HUGE bucket and trough. Both of them filled their containers up and carried them on their heads. Wishing I could do the same, but can't, I carried mine by my side. It must have been a pretty funny sight considering how small the container was that I was carrying compared to theirs. To help you better understand I drew a stick figure diagram below. On the second trip to get water Euttice informed me I was too tired to carry my container so she would carry two. I laughed and told her I wanted to have strong muscles. Luckily, I brought my phone along to take a snap of the ladies hard at work to share.

Rwiness is on the left and Euttice is on the right

I am not sure exactly of their ages, these are just my estimates.

I had so much fun just spreading water onto a dirt floor with Euttice and Rwiness yesterday and was humbled by their hard work and servant hearts. How blessed Jason and I are to have the opportunity to experience such neat things!

Home Sweet Home

Jeremy and Whitney — Mon, 31 Oct 2011 02:29:00 +0000

Well, I write "Home Sweet Home", but we aren't quite there yet. We chose the cheapest and possibly worst airline ever for our trip to and from Cape Town, and we are paying for it now. We arrived this morning at the airport at 5 am to hop on our 7 am flight, only to find out our airline had been grounded due to not paying their taxes. It is kind of funny because on the way to Cape Town, they were grounded because they couldn't find anyone to pay for the fuel on the plane. So we are now spending the day at the airport waiting on a new flight with a new airline scheduled for the evening. Hopefully, we will be home tomorrow night after the drive back from Lusaka.

Cape Town was perfect! We had an amazing trip, ate some amazing food, saw some great movies and met some great people. We did a lot of fun touristy things, but our trip was also long enough for me to meet some of the people Jeremy has worked with in the past during his summers in Cape Town. We stayed with a wonderful couple that Jeremy met last time he was in Cape Town. They were so hospitable and sweet; we felt like we were staying with our grandparents. Cape Town is a beautiful city that is surrounded by mountains and beaches-the best of both worlds. We ate A LOT. We hiked and rode bikes through the mountains, took walks on the beach (the water is freezing), saw lots of whales, toured the wine lands and much more. It was such a wonderful break and vacation for us.

We are ready to get back home to Zambia now. It is an exciting time as the rains are beginning in Zambia. It is time to plant some flowers and get our garden ready! Jeremy and I are anxious to get back in to our routine of living in the bush and working with the people there. It is hard to believe that we are approaching the one year mark of living in Africa. We are blessed to be where we are and to be learning so much.

Bougainvillea

Erin — Sun, 30 Oct 2011 05:26:00 +0000

We have few of these beautiful brightly colored bougainvillea bushes in our back yard. From far away it looks as if this plant has blooms on it but really its the leaves. The bougainvillea is a native plant to South America but is grows very well in southern Africa. I am the most fond of them when they are climbing on a fence, trellis, or anything of that sort. Ours were planted before we got here, they are just out in the open loving the full sun they get.

It's interesting to me how as I grow to become more observant of seemingly small things because of a blossoming interest or hobby I appreciate the beauty God created in this world so much more.

InstaMumena Friday

Erin — Fri, 28 Oct 2011 05:39:00 +0000

I have seen a few blogs lately share this idea of Instagram match up on Fridays. I am relatively new to Instagram but am really enjoying the opportunity to chronicle the mundane, funny, or pretty experiences during the week. So, here is our week....

This is our kinsanza on our back yard termite mound. To help you get a scale for how tall our mound is....lets just say it's about the height of our house. The breeze on top is great though!

It has been over 95 in our house consistently every day this past two weeks. We THOUGHT we were going to get away with not having to experience the "miserable" part of October we had been warned about. We THOUGHT this because a few rain showers came early. Well, we were teased by the short lived showers. That "miserable heat" part of October has been here full fledged lately. Wish I could share a pic of the day Jason and I napped with two regular fans blowing on us plus two personal mini size fans next to each of our faces.

A pretty from the garden

Last night we enjoyed pizza we had been waiting to make for a while. Pepperoni from the States, mozzarella from a grocery store 9 hours away, and homemade dough. It WAS worth the wait!


Cecilia one of our kittens playing with a lizard. Bless that lizard's little heart. I don't think it lasted too long.

Well that is all for InstaMumena Friday. Hope everyone has a restful weekend!

Happy Independance Day Zambia!

Erin — Mon, 24 Oct 2011 08:11:00 +0000

47 years ago today Zambia became the 9th African state to gain it's independence from the British crown. Today we had the privilege of celebrating this event with the students, teachers, parents, and head men of all of the surrounding villages. The festivities started last night and will carry on through late this evening. Mumena B Basic School (the campus of which we live on) is hosting all of the events. It is so neat to see Zambians coming together to commemorate their country's independence. Here a few pictures from today so far...


Dressed up for a "cultural dance"

The "witch doctor" dance. Somewhat creepy of a costume if you ask me but it was helpful for our cultural learning : )

Sweet Aggie posing for me

More dancing

Emily Love (Emily is one of the daughters of team members Rick and Karen Love). She was not too happy about me taking pictures of her.

Newest Team Newsletter

Erin — Fri, 21 Oct 2011 02:08:00 +0000

Here is our latest joint newsletter from Jeremy, Whitney, Jason, and I. Click on the images and use the magnifying glass tool or "full screen view" to zoom in and read our updates.

Thank you to those who read our updates. We appreciate your support and prayers so much!

Cultural Insights: Respect & Hospitality

Rick — Sat, 15 Oct 2011 08:45:00 +0000

Last post, I explained a very evil tradition: The Flying Coffin. This time, I will explain a wonderful cultural value: Showing Respect and Hospitality.

Some traditions show the very image of God shining in a people group. The way the Kaonde people show respect and hospitality to each other is amazing.

Respect is key to all relationships among the Kaonde. They always greet others with a warm greeting. Even strangers great each other with a quick acknowledgement. Failing to acknowledge somebody immediately causes that person to ask, "Why is he mad at me? What have I done to offend him?"

We missionaries often fail to show proper respect. In our culture, it is not very important anymore. We are too busy to greet every person we encounter throughout the day, even if we do know them. Unless we have something to say, we often don't say anything at all. Instead we quickly go to our office, our car, our private place, to do our own thing.

Living among the Kaonde community, I have learned how to sincerely greet and acknowledge others. Also, I have learned what real hospitality is like. Here if a visitor comes to the house, the household stops what they are doing. They say welcome (and mean it) and quickly get a seat for the guest. After he or she is seated, they then give all attention and start a conversation. It is even slightly offensive to ask, "Can I help you?" or "Do you need anything?" because it seems like the guest is unwanted or being rushed. Getting straight to business is equivalent to saying, "You are not important to me, I just want to know what you can offer me."

Obviously, we have made many mistakes while we live here. I have rushed by people without noticing they are there. Later, they have said to me, "Why didn't you greet me?" I apologize and tell them I am still learning how to give respect since we foreigners are not very good at that. They are very gracious and do not take it personally. When that happens, it is a quick reminder that I am not focusing on what is important.

God has made us a family of his children. The relationships we have are far more important than any busy-ness. Obviously, there are times to rush (like in a medical emergency). However, every day life is not supposed to go by in such a rush that we don't have time to show that we actually care about others around us.

Next time you go to work, school, or even in a restaurant, take time to say hi to those you encounter. This is a great lesson we westerners can learn from the "3rd world" who put priority on personal relationships. We may have most of the money, technology, and food, but if we forget to develop relationships, we are very poor indeed. It won't take much time to greet others warmly, but it will make a huge impact on our life.

I am thankful to learn some good life lessons from the Kaonde even as I try to teach them God's word.
- Rick Love

Cape Town, here we come!

Jeremy and Whitney — Sat, 15 Oct 2011 04:34:00 +0000

Jeremy and I are headed for Lusaka, Zambia's capital tomorrow, and then we fly out for Cape Town, South Africa on Tuesday. We will be in this lovely city for two weeks for a vacation! So if you need us, here is where we will be :)

So excited!!! We'll be back in Mumena on November 1, my husband's 26th birthday! See you then.

Cultural Insights: The Flying Coffin

Rick — Thu, 13 Oct 2011 08:17:00 +0000

Some traditions are just plain evil, like the Flying Coffin tradition of the Kaonde people.

Let me try to describe it from the traditional Kaonde point of view:
The flying coffin is a ceremony to destroy the evil witch who has caused the person (in the coffin) to die. This is done to bring peace back to the community before the witch can kill another person. The men who carry the coffin will take a herbal drug that will put them into a trance. This will allow the ancestral spirits to guide them to find the witch. During the funeral, they will start carrying the coffin. The spirits will guide the coffin and even make it hover over their arms to the witch's house. Then the witch will be accused and beaten to death, thus eliminating the threat to the peace of the community. Sometimes if this ceremony is not performed, the coffin will come back up out of the ground after it has been buried. Then it will fly to the witch and bring a curse to that witch or beat the witch to death itself.

Obviously, I have some problems with this perspective. Let me give my perspective:
Revenge belongs to God! He is the only one capable of judging and forgiving a person through Jesus Christ. The flying coffin is an attempt to seek revenge against an unknown enemy. However, it is based on the assumption that all physical consequences are a result of other humans bringing evil into the community. The ancestral spirits which the people trust to guide them to the "witch" are actually demonic spirits seeking to destroy an innocent person. The men carrying the coffin are acting as Satan's servants bringing murder to the community (thus they are the very witches they want to destroy). During the ceremony, I am sure Satan finds it quite humorous to see these men murder innocent people in the name of restoring peace. This is a demonic and abominable tradition which must be boldly spoken against by the Kaonde Christians.

The flying coffin is illegal and punishable as murder according to the Zambian law. However, the police cannot do much without the support of traditional leaders like the local chief. In some chieftancies, the chief has helped to punish the men who have done the flying coffin. In those places, the tradition is reduced and the men are most likely to allow the offending "witch" to pay a large fine instead of being beaten to death. However, in many places innocent people still die each month because of this evil tradition.

For example, about a month ago, a man was beaten to death in a nearby village. However, the family went to the police claiming their father was innocent (this is a good change, because in the past the family would ofter turn against their own family member and join in accusing him). The traditional leadership was very angry that this happened and the men were arrested. From what I understand, they are expected to be put in prison for 5 to 10 years.

Please pray that Christians will stand strongly against this practice and spread the message that God will judge according to his just ways. God has put governments into place to give criminals a fair trial where evidence is considered and the truth is attempted to be found. This is not perfect as human judges and criminal justice systems still make mistakes. However, it is far better than revenge killings. In revenge killings everything is led by pure anger and hatred and no sense of justice or truth is accomplished. God has taught clearly that revenge does not accomplish anything good - Romans 12:19

- Rick Love

Not your normal weekend in Mumena...

Jeremy and Whitney — Wed, 12 Oct 2011 02:07:00 +0000

This past weekend we had a group of about 25 students fromHarding University come up to Mumena. They are studying abroad this semesterand staying at Namwianga Mission in southern Zambia. The group came up on aThursday and left on Monday. It was a short but sweet visit—very busy!

The group came to learn more about rural missions, and so wewere able to provide a few classes dealing with our team’s strategy and goals.We dug in to the culture and all that comes with it. It was a sharp group ofstudents, and they asked some great questions.

I, personally, loved the singing that came with the group.Every Wednesday night our team gets together for a small devotional, but thereare only 10 of us that are adults. I loved sitting around the campfire withthis huge group singing English songs that I grew up singing at church.

Erin and I both got to take groups of girls out tosurrounding villages and let them see what a typical village looks like. It wasfun to watch their reactions to things and remember what I felt like when Ifirst got here. We spent Saturday out at the Rd. 68 church in the refugee camp.The youth at the church put on a great program for all of us. The Congoleserefugees LOVE to sing and clap, so we did A LOT of that.

Now, something I have been hearing about from the kids onour mission team ever since I got here, is the annual trick or treat night.Every October, the team takes advantage of so many Americans being here, andthey take that opportunity to let their kids go around and trick or treat. Allof the Harding students stay at the dorms, which are just right outside ourdoors past the school. The missionary children go around to each of thestudent’s dorm rooms to collect their Halloween candy. The students all dressup in costumes. Then the missionary kids come around to each of our teammember’s houses to trick or treat. Jeremy and I participated in this grandevent. Jeremy, being the good cousin that he is, dressed up as the Wolverinefrom XMen for his cousins Bryson and Noah—they loved it. And I was asked byNoah to be his slave…his costume was some kind of scientific character from someshow like Star Trek that I really don’t know anything about. However, theseimportant characters all have slaves, so Noah asked if I would be his. It was avery interesting Halloween we had on Sunday, October 8. The kids really lovedit, and I see now why their parents make sure to keep up this Americantradition for them.

Disclaimer: we don't have much entertainment here, do NOT judge (please)!

Congregation Report - Road 68 Church of Christ

Rick — Tue, 11 Oct 2011 07:09:00 +0000

One Sunday morning in the Congolese refugee congregation at Road 68, Brother Kazadi preached on how King Solomon determined who was the true loving parent of a certain child in question. Kazadi concluded his lesson with a passage from Romans 9:8…

“This means that it is not the children of the flesh who are the children of God, but the children of the promise are reckoned as descendants.” RSV

Kazadi pointed out how our Heavenly King has determined our parentage even in a world of violence and brokenness. As a result, we have both safety and belonging regardless of what Satan has done to our families here on earth. Bro. Kazadi’s lesson was all the more poignant knowing that his wife had passed away only a couple of months earlier. Kazadi continues to care for his 9 children now as a single parent and has begun children’s Bible school classes for the elementary children at the Road 68 congregation.

“For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God.” Romans 8:14 KJV

Rejoicing in belonging and safety,
Brian, Sondra, Noah, & Bryson

Wednesday News

Erin — Wed, 05 Oct 2011 02:43:00 +0000

Last weekend the missionary ladies put on a workshop in Mumena for women interested in learning how to teach Bible classes for children. Our aim was teaching methods that could be easily used in the village. So, we used basic materials like notebook paper, crayons, scissors, and a little tape. All of these items can be bought in Solwezi, the nearest town. It was so exciting to see the women (over 40 attended) fellowship and create lessons together. Also, I think they enjoyed having time away from their laborious responsibilities at home. Art is such a therapy and that was evident in their enthusiasm for just coloring with crayola crayons. Most of the women had babies on their backs throughout the seminar and few brought along their young ones to play outside while they were in class. Sondra, Whitney, Ellie, and I were very pleased with the outcome of the weekend. Please be praying with us for the women who attended to have the confidence and calling to start sharing the Lord with their youngsters.

In other news:

4 baby goats were born this last week. They are just about the most precious baby animals. Even when they are only a couple days old they are start running around trying to jump and buck. Many times they end up landing on their bellies because they aren't quite coordinated enough yet. Jason and I spend a little time almost every evening just watching and laughing at them. For those of you who do not live in the African bush this might sound like an odd type of entertainment. But take my word for it...it's adorable.

Special Delivery:

Our rains came early, YES! This means I get to start working on this seasons flowers! I already have a new layout for the backyard drawn up, Jason is helping get the plans rolling by getting our fence re-built. We have grass fences here and our backyard fence was in very shabby shape. Since our truck is out of commission for the time being we have resorted to using alternative means for transporting the grass for the new fence. Meet the ox cart crew!

Happy Wednesday!

Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever.

Psalm 118:1

Great weekend with the women!

Jeremy and Whitney — Mon, 03 Oct 2011 22:19:00 +0000

This past weekend we had our first womens seminar. This wasa special weekend for the 45 women that came, because this was for most, theirfirst break from normal life in a very long time. The Zambian women are alwaysbusy. They are responsible for all of their children, the cooking, thecleaning, the clothes washing, and on top of all of that they are usuallyworking out in their field.

It was a great weekend of fellowship, singing, languagelearning (for me), and teaching techniques for how to teach children at homeand at church. We taught on a very SIMPLE, basic level. Ellie taught the grouphow to draw stick figures and how to come up with pictures on your own. Sondraand Erin taught how to use shapes and objects to get childrens attention(sticks, trees, cut outs). I taught how to teach stories by creating motionsand sounds to go with the story that the children can mimic. We had a lot offun working with the ladies on how this can all be done in their culture.

The last day the ladieswere split in to four groups all working to produce a Bible story lesson usingone of the techniques that were taught. They worked so hard and theirpresentations were great!

This momma above, was left by her husband right before this baby boy was born, she now raises six kids alone, but is so faithful to her church. I was so happy she got to take a break and come to the seminar.

My group of women practicing their presentation--creating motions for your story

Their presentation of Jesus' baptism

Congregation Report - Kyongozhi Church of Christ

Rick — Mon, 03 Oct 2011 04:14:00 +0000

We have enjoyed visiting the Kyongozhi church of Christ over the past months. They are very small congregation but are working hard to push forward with making bricks for a more substantial structure to meet in. They are sending four women to the Ladies seminar this weekend which are very excited about. Visiting there with Brian and Sondra has been a great learning experience as we observe their interaction with a maturing church plant. Since we will not be able to visit them during the rainy season due to road conditions we hope to spend a few more Sunday's with them before November.

-Jason & Erin Davis

Jacaranda trees and preparing for piglets

Erin — Tue, 27 Sep 2011 02:46:00 +0000

After our weekly apprentice class this morning I thought it might be a good time for a picture of the beautiful Jacaranda trees that are blooming right now. We are tredging through our dry season (no rain since early May), everything is brown, dusty, or burned except for the one tree that blooms during this otherwise not so pretty time of year. We have one in front of our house and there are a whole line of them on the other side of the school campus. Here a couple pictures for you see:

Jason with his friend Pertheus. They are working on building pig pens for the piglets that will be born soon.

That's all for today's short update. Our ladies seminar starts on Thursday. We are so excited about the women wanting to learn easy techniques for teaching Sunday school at their churches. Hopefully we will have a good post for that next week. Happy Tuesday!

New President, Yellow Fever Shots, Women's Seminar

Jeremy and Whitney — Tue, 27 Sep 2011 00:23:00 +0000

We have a new president here in Zambia. You may have seen iton the news. His name is Michael Sata, also known as the “King Cobra”. Zambiahas handled the transition in government relatively peacefully. This transitionwas even recognized by President Obama and applauded for the peace Zambia ispromoting through the change. Please keep President Sata in your prayers as heleads Zambia.

Jeremy and I along with Brian, Sondra and their boys are allgoing to Cape Town, South Africa next month. We will be staying in separateplaces, about an hour away from each other, but we are quite excited! I am sureI will have tons of pictures from our trip, but that will be next month. Brianand Sondra previously worked in Cape Town for years doing missions before theycame to Zambia. Since they are retiring from the field next year, this will betheir last trip to Cape Town. Jeremy and I are going more for a good get awayand vacation in a first world country, but I will get to meet some of thepeople I have been hearing about for years. Jeremy spent his first Africaninternship in Cape Town years ago. I say all of this to explain why we were atan urban health clinic in Solwezi getting yellow fever shots…yikes!

Before Jeremy and I came to Zambia, we received all of theshots necessary to live here. However, yellow fever was no longer required forZambia. Well, the law has changed in Zambia and now it IS required in order toleave the country and go to South Africa. Panic set in for me as I realized ourtime crunch AND realized that this would mean getting my shot here…in Solwezi.It made me feel a lot better that Brian and Sondra also had to get them withus. We all headed out to town, which is about 45 minutes away. We picked up ourviles, needles and such (all neatly packaged and unused) and headed to theurban clinic to get our business taken care of. I was nervous. Well, all thingswent well and the shot was actually really easy and harmless. All well and safe. The doctor was kindto us. We are now officially set to go to Cape Town. And let me tell you, if Ican get a shot in Solwezi, I can get a shot anywhere.

The women’s seminar is this weekend, and I am anxious for itto begin. This is our first time to spend this much time with the women alone.It will be great for language learning since most women do not speak anyEnglish. All of our women on the missionary team will be teaching a different,simple technique to help these church women learn how to teach children’s bibleclasses. Pray for the 30 or so women this weekend that come for fellowship andtraining to be women of the Lord. There are lots and lots of children runningaround the churches every Sunday, and of course, these women all have manychildren of their own. However, I think they are nervous and may feel a bitinadequate to teach. Pray for understanding, excitement and a sense ofresponsibility to set in with these very qualified women. They are a wonderfulgroup of ladies!

Latest Newsletter

Erin — Thu, 22 Sep 2011 05:35:00 +0000

Below is our latest apprentice team newsletter. To view larger click on the image then use the magnifying glass tool to zoom in on the text. Some of the information is repetitive from the family seminar but Jason wrote a good update on the Ag program in our "Notes from Jason and Erin" section. Enjoy!

An Anniversary Party!

Jeremy and Whitney — Mon, 19 Sep 2011 03:23:00 +0000

Last week, I was sitting in our living room when CosmasLilamono came to our door to greet Jeremy. Cosmas and Jeremy have been friendsfor six years. As they were talking on the front porch I heard the words“party” and “19 years”. I immediately ran out to ask why in the world I heardthe word party? I have lived in Zambia for over eight months now, and there hasnever been talk about parties in the Kaonde culture. Of course, I am sure theyhave them, but usually it involves large amounts of alcohol and witchcraft.But, Cosmas began to explain to me that he and his wife, Josephine, would liketo celebrate their upcoming 19 years of marriage! I was blown away by this. Icannot tell you enough how uncommon it is here to do anything with your wife.Most couples do not even eat together. They do not share money, they do notthink of each other’s needs. For Cosmas and Josephine (our dear friends andsome of the first Christians in Mumena) to want to honor each other with acelebration was just amazing to me. Jeremy and I were pumped!

Well, yesterday was the day. Cosmas was very excited, and hehad been updating us on things he was preparing. He was making a peanut cake.It calls for affordable ingredients he can manage, plus he can make it in a potover the fire. We arrived and Josephine was wearing a new bright shatangi(material used as a skirt) and her best wig! I personally think she looks morebeautiful without the wig, but a wig signifies a big deal here. All of their boyswere jumping around with excitement. We sat with them at a small table they hadborrowed from their church and ate chicken and nshema. Eating meat is a bigdeal and only happens on special occasions. When the cake was brought out afterthe meal, Josephine and Cosmas cut it together with one knife and then fed thefirst bite to each other. Again, I was shocked and so happy. It was funnybecause after they did it, they wanted Jeremy and I to do it as well. Iexplained to them that it wasn’t our anniversary, but we did it anyways forthem.After a wonderful meal and good fellowship, the big boom boxcame out and all the boys started dancing.

It was a great celebration and all I could keep thinkingwithout tears pouring down my face, was how these sweet boys would be impactedby their parents marriage. Would these five boys lead the next generation in acompletely new idea of what a good marriage looks like? What it means to reallybecome one and love each other unconditionally under God’s headship? For peopleliving in a constant state of mental poverty, what happened yesterday wouldhave never suggested these people thought they were poor. I am thankful for aGod that gives you new insight and a new worldview once you decide to let him. Ipray that church leaders like Cosmas and wives like Josephine will continue toimpact and change their villages by their example.

Cutting the cake, with all their kids watching

Jeremy and his namesake (this one is for you, Meemaw)

Jeremy dancing with a Lilamono cousin

The whole family

Learning some moves from Josephine

South Luangwa National Park

Erin — Fri, 16 Sep 2011 02:08:00 +0000

We are back in Mumena after an amazing trip to South Luangwa National Park. We left Mumena last Thursday, drove 9 hours to Lusaka, then 10 hours on Saturday driving from Lusaka to the park. We camped for 3 nights at Track and Trail lodge which was only a few km from the park entrance. Each night we had elephant and hippo come through the camp which made for interesting nightly music. We saw so many animals we couldn't believe it. I wish I could upload all of our pictures but it has taken a couple hours to upload this many so maybe another time I will add more. Hope these pictures make you want to visit us in Zambia!

Sun setting over the Luangwa River

Gray Hornbill

Water Buffalo

Puku mother and fawn

Lion and elephant herd drinking from a stream

Impala's sparing

Carmine Bee-eater

Lioness resting on our night drive. Her pride had eaten a small elephant that day. I imagine they were pretty full and ready for a good nap!

favorite African animal

Male lion resting in the sun very early in the morning

Impala buck

Puku buck

Hippo

Crocodile

young Zebra

female Kudu

A beautiful herd of giraffe came right in front of the jeep. They always move as if in slow motion.

Hyena eating a zebra on our night drive... yucky but Jason likes this picture

Bush Buck herd

Mommy and baby elephant

I love the impala's lanky awkwardness

Lilacbreasted Roller

We were hoping to see leopard but were beginning to think we wouldn't be able to because they are quite elusive. On our last morning drive we just happened to run into this little lady resting by the road. She stayed for a couple seconds then slowly got up and walked off.

Africa is a playground for animal lovers. We have been blessed to have the opportunity to see the Master's beautiful creations in their natural habitats. Each animal being uniquely different and all made for specific purposes, what a creative God we serve!

"Blessed are the poor in spirit..."

Jeremy and Whitney — Tue, 13 Sep 2011 01:37:00 +0000

Ezron. A 72 year old village head man living in a village called Mushingashi. Living most of his life without God, he is now a church leader. Always the first one to worship on Sundays and Bible studies on Wednesdays, he’s always the last to sit down. He walks around making sure everyone has a chair, though culturally he should be the one with the best seat. When it comes time for him to pray he bows to his overworked and worn-out knees praying with all of his heart. When presiding over the Lord’s Supper, he is overwhelmed with emotion as he thanks his Savior in tears—a cultural sign of weakness. Every time I encounter this man all I can think about is “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.”

A village headman, elder in the community, and formally lost man was not born with this character trait. It is not something that he strives for as an achievement that will increase his blessing. No. This is a man who understands who he is in relationship to his King. Because of his self-awareness, he doesn’t mope around feeling helpless, but he lives as an empowered adopted child of the King. So he molds bricks to build a church building, mostly on his own, he visits village to village to encourage the members, and he hosts devotionals around the fire at night for the surrounding community. This man is not weak, but humble. This is a man that lives with the knowledge that he is constantly in the presence of God.

“For this is what the high and exalted One says— he who lives forever, whose name is holy: “I live in a high and holy place, but also with the one who is contrite and lowly in spirit, to revive the spirit of the lowly and to revive the heart of the contrite.” -Isaiah 57:15

Ezron (the one standing) teaching at the Family Seminar last month.

As you approach the Beatitudes, remember that this is not a code of ethics or morals. They are not personality traits that you are just born with. It’s not a law for which you can attain righteousness. It is an emptying of self. This is a description of how a Christian, every Christian, ought to live in an environment of grace. This is what Christ came to die for.

“ …while we wait for the blessed hope—the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ, who gave himself for us to redeem us from all wickedness and to purify for himself a people that are his very own, eager to do what is good.” -Titus 2:13-14

“Blessed are the poor in spirit for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.” -Matt. 5:3

There is no one who is in God’s kingdom that is not poor in spirit.

Here are some verses to reflect on as you empty yourself and allow God to fill you up, becoming poor in spirit: Philippians 2:5-11, Luke 5:1-11.

Blessings as you go through the orientation of the life in the Kingdom of God.

Suggested reading for more study on the Sermon on the Mount: Studies on the Sermon on the Mount. D. Martyn Lloyd-Jones.

Do you know Him?

Jeremy and Whitney — Thu, 08 Sep 2011 00:45:00 +0000

I spoke to a drunk man yesterday as I was leaving a Bible study in Mushingashi. He, of course, approached me blubbering many things. I asked him to come to the Bible study next week and he said he needs to as he is a "backslider". Then I asked him if he knew Jesus. He responded, "Yes, he is my redeemer". I responded if you really knew Jesus you wouldn't be drunk like this and "backslidding". After I said that I continued home on my hour bike ride through the bush. As I was riding, I could not help but reflect on my statement to him regarding my own life. I spend many hours studying the Bible and learning about Jesus, but do I really know him? You could ask me almost anything about who Jesus is and I can tell you. However, in that same day I could criticize someone, or speak harshly to my wife, or neglect to show love to someone in a conversation. If I really know Jesus, how could I still be battling sin? How could I have a selfish bone in my body? It was easy for me to see that drunk man and many others here in Zambia who know stuff about Jesus, but recognize that they don’t really know him. However, do I really know him or do I just know about him? Jesus says, “if you love me, you’ll keep my commandments.” What are those commandments? Where is the law written down so we can follow them(a common question among the Kaonde people)? How can I know and come to love Jesus and how will that be shown through my life?
Whitney and I are beginning a study through the Beattitudes and would encourage anyone who would like to study that along with us to do so. I believe there are some key principles that will help me actually know Jesus and not just know about him in these teachings. Hopefully, our journey through getting to know Jesus through the Beattitudes will encourage you as well. -Jeremy

Christian Chronicle Article

Rick — Tue, 06 Sep 2011 22:54:00 +0000

We were just told about an article in the Christian Chronicle about our work here.

Read it here:

Article in Christian Chronicle

- Rick & Karen Love

Mumena's Family Seminar

Jeremy and Whitney — Sun, 04 Sep 2011 00:48:00 +0000

This past weekend was the first family seminar for the Mumena area churches of Christ. The best part of the family seminar was it was planned and decided on by the church leaders. They are beginning to see the value and importance of guiding your family in the ways of the Lord.
We had been planning this seminar for a couple of months now. The church leaders and missionaries felt it was important for every family to pay for the portion of their food they would eat during the weekend, so that this could be a sustainable, annual seminar if they preferred it. Also, the missionaries did not provide transport to get to the seminar, so we were pretty nervous about how everything would play out and if anyone would even show up! It was a leap of faith on our part and theirs.
We ended up having around 140 people come, made up of husbands, wives, grandparents, youth and children. It was very humbling as we witnessed groups of families walk here and pay for their own food. It helps, bit by bit, to overcome the mental poverty that is so prevalent here. Some churches are located within just a 20-30 minute walk of our area, while others are a 6-8 hour walk. A few families and church members left their villages at 6 am just to be here! Quite humbling. They have my upmost respect.
The seminar kicked off Friday night with a meal and devotional thought by Jeremy. It was so nice sitting around the fire that evening with 140 of our brothers and sisters in Christ. I shared a seat with my good friend, Josephine, and held her baby in my arms. I felt the unification that comes with living in Christ, and blessed to be in the presence of people who sacrificed a lot to come to the seminar. What a blessing to be in the family of God!
Saturday we had split classes for children, youth, married couples and single mothers. It was a great day of classes—both Zambians and Americans taught. The first session I helped Ellie Rodriguez (one of the missionaries here from TX) with the childrens class. Ellie is a grandmother who loves children, so I benefited as much as the children did just watching her interact with them and teach. The kids were so cute and excited to be doing something so new. All of the families who attended were either sleeping in the dorms or in the school building. Both lodging options have electricity, so the kids had a lot to be excited about with that!
The second session I spent with the youth. The youth sessions were amazing. During the first session, Erin, Jason and Jeremy taught on what it means to be a son or a daughter of God. Then, during the second session Erin and I worked with the girls. We then had them use their creativity to create something for God-either a song or a skit. We split them in to three groups—two groups came up with skits, and the other group a song. They did such an amazing job. We were completely blown away when they performed for the whole group around the campfire that night.
Overall, the seminar went really well. I hope the church leaders are inspired to do this again next year and many more years to come.

Restarting Blog

Rick — Thu, 01 Sep 2011 09:17:00 +0000

Just a quick note for everyone: The Mumena Missions blog has been redesigned and we will be using it regularly again to send out news about the work here at Mumena.

God has blessed us to see Him working in many ways here.

Remember to visit our Facebook page for the latest activities:
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Mumena-Missions/289990056262

Family Seminar

Erin — Sun, 28 Aug 2011 12:47:00 +0000

Friday evening through Sunday afternoon we got to witness a new priority for many of our Kaonde brothers and sisters, family. Over 100 church members trekked to Mumena Christian Outreach for a weekend of encouragement for their families. Many of the youth walked 6 six hours to get here, talk about inspiring.

Our theme verse for the weekend was Ephesians 5:1, "Be imitators of God, therefore as dearly loved children and live a life of love, just as Christ loved us a and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God." Jason and I helped with the youth classes which was a hoot. At first it was hard to get them talking but when they had the opportunity to make up a skit or song about what it means to be a child of God they just came alive. Two groups made up very elaborate skits, with great acting of course, and one group of girls wrote a song (in 30 min!). Their creativity was astounding. We hope their churches will continue to build them up because they can be such lights!

Probably my favorite part of the weekend happened this morning before our church service. Everyone broke up into their individual families to have family devotionals which promoted them pray, read, discuss, and memorize scripture together. It warmed my heart to see families making such an effort to grow together. Our hope is for them to now have the confidence to regularly have family devotionals at home.

Here are few more pictures:

Please be praying for the families in the Mumena chiefdom!

Seminar Preview

Jeremy and Whitney — Sun, 28 Aug 2011 07:19:00 +0000

The Family Seminar was great! Something totally new and different here for the churches in Mumena. I will write all about it this week. For now, here are a couple of pictures from the children's class. These kids are working on drawing their hands after teacher Ellie's lesson.

July-August Update

Erin — Tue, 23 Aug 2011 04:04:00 +0000

We recently sent out a new newsletter and below is our "Notes from Jason and Erin" portion that gives a quick update on our life the past couple of months in Mumena.

It has been very odd to me that life in Mumena is much slower than our American lifestyles were used to yet time has been flying by. We can't believe we are now in our 8th month in Zambia.

Jason has been very busy with the school production project this month. While the kids are on break from school he has been offering Ag in-services for the production teachers. With the possibility of growing their own feed and encouraging local farmers to grow the crops needed for the animals, Jason's goal of sustainability could really be within arms length.

July was a wonderful month that included the Allison's visiting for the marriage seminar and our Sunday school teacher's seminar at the refugee camp. Janet and Fielden Allison travel several months out of the year from their home base, African Christian College in Swaziland, to teach marriage workshops. The material they present is contextualized in a way that Africans participating can take the material back to their churches and teach other couples. It was such a joy and inspiration to sit in on their classes. I would love someday to be able to follow in their footsteps of teaching about the Christian marriage and family in cultures that readily struggle with this specific area in their faith. It was my first visit to the refugee camp the Saturday the missionary ladies from Mumena taught about the importance of teaching children Bible lessons as well as easy techniques to do so. It was a very neat experience to visit our lively Congolese sisters and we hope and pray they will continue to be excited about teaching their little ones about the Lord. Sondra, Whitney, and I are looking forward to starting back up with our lady teacher's Bible study in September and are hoping for a good number of teachers who will be committed and excited about studying together each week.

Thank you for your prayers and support!

This and That

Jeremy and Whitney — Mon, 22 Aug 2011 02:03:00 +0000

This is just an update to let you know we are still here! We are past the middle mark of the dry season, and it is starting to get hotter. But we are pressing forward and getting ready for the family seminar this weekend! We are really excited about this because the church leaders came up with the idea of a family seminar all on their own. They met with us months ago about the possibility, set the food prices and here we are just a few days away from Mumena's first family seminar. We are expecting about 100 people to show up. We are hoping for this weekend to give a specific Godly direction to a father/husband, a mother/wife, a single mother doing it all on her own, and the children and youth of the family. We are hopeful for a new direction within the Kaonde minds of what a family can be and what it means to God. Please be in prayer for this weekend, as it is a first, and things will be interesting. We are thankful for the church leaders diligence in wanting to learn more and spread the work of the Kingdom.
I will leave you with a couple of pictures. This one is of Jeremy at the Congolese youth rally. It went very well, and Jeremy got to connect back with refugees he had worked with 5 years ago.

This next picture is of sweet cousin time! Noah and Bryson usually try to go to church with us about once a month. Usually they stay over at our house for lunch and until their parents come back home from their church. On this day, we had a game afternoon. Bryson was not feeling the game so much but was still sweet enough to give me a wave. Noah and Jeremy are too distracted by the strategy of the game.

Pictures!

Erin — Wed, 27 Jul 2011 05:01:00 +0000

We have been waiting for a good enough internet signal to post these pictures for a while. Yay, internet in town is great today! The first few are from the lion and cheetah walk we went on in Livingstone at the end of the June campaigns. It was an amazing experience. We still cannot believe we got to pet and walk with such beautiful animals. Also in the mix are a couple pictures of the US Ambassador to Zambia's visit to Mumena Christian Outreach Center. He visited to tour the Ag projects happening at the center involving partnership with the Zambian people.

Talking to Suzie about how to behave

Mumean B school's production class with their teacher, Mr. Mutale, showing off their chickens

Layer chicken coop

Jason, the Ambassador, and Chief Mumena discussing the
pig production section of the school project

The Ambassador viewing the layers pen

Termite Mound Time

Erin — Mon, 27 Jun 2011 08:54:00 +0000

In our backyard we have a termite mound taller than our house that used to really annoy me. But my husband talked me into having a kinsanza (thatch gazebo) built on top of it. That probably sounds a little yucky if you haven't seen it. In fact, when I told my Mom of this her only response was "Erin, I am not really sure what to say about that." But to my dismay, our little kinsanza is the most peaceful place I could imagine having here. We have a wonderful view and the breeze is always present. Many afternoons Jason and I sit up here and relax together, sometimes we eat meals here, and today I have realized this is the only place in our house area we can get internet connection so now I am perfectly smitten with our once annoying termite mound! This explanation/description leads up to the point that I am in the perfect setting for a litte blog post....

The past two weeks have been a whirlwind of excitement. We have just finished our spiritual, medical, educational, and construction campaigns with the participation on 21 visitors from the States. I am not quite sure how to summarize it all but to say, much work was done in the above areas with one goal in mind...to further God's kingdom through short term church and development mission work. I can attest to seeing results of Christ's love shared through our visitors and am confident we will continue seeing these results as time goes by. Thank you to all those who participated in and prayed for this time!

Team Newsletter: March – May 2010

Rick — Fri, 11 Jun 2010 16:37:00 +0000

Read our Team Newsletter

Below is a copy of the text from the newsletter:

Harvest time is a joyful time of year in Zambia. The farmers finally have enough food to sell their surplus and buy some extras which they often do without (like soap and sugar). Living close to creation constantly reminds us who is truly in control.

April Servant-Hood Seminar – Rick Love

In April, we invited 20 men to come and continue learning the Word of God. We had three classes for one month. First, Garry Montgomery came from America to teach about servant leadership. Second, Brian and Rick taught the book of Acts. Finally, each student took his turn to practice teaching a section from Acts.

Each of the leaders continues to grow in his commitment to God and serving others in his community.

Kandemba House Church – Leonard Mujala

This little congregation is located just near the airport in Solwezi and meets in the home of Mr. & Mrs. Nyevuka. The Nyevukas used to walk a long distance to the Messenger congregation and finally thought of starting a congregation in their home with two other families. They live in a large compound and will have many people nearby with which to share the gospel. The Messenger congregation where John Maseka preaches is fully supporting this new church plant within Solwezi.

On its first Sunday meeting, two people came forward to be baptized and one restored! Twenty two people assembled together on their first Sunday which has caused them to begin looking around for a possible room for rent or perhaps a plot of land on which to build. I visited the other congregations in town to encourage them to be visiting this new congregation. Solwezi is a mining town that is growing in population. English is well spoken there. We hope to have a major distribution of World Bible School material in Solwezi later this year. I know that you will join me in prayer that God will give a great harvest!

Matenda! – Brian Davis

Each year the rains threaten to wash away our 2 mile dirt road from the paved highway to our village where we live. Three years ago, Leonard Mujala mentioned a word in KiiKaonde that might help in the road’s annual repair: matenda. The meaning of this word exists in numerous cultures here in Africa and most language groups have a single word for this idea. I haven’t found a single word for this concept in English. Perhaps the closest phrase that we have is “a barn raising”.

The idea is that the community pulls together in a volunteer effort to accomplish a task that will bless the whole community. During the last two years, we have had from 10 to 15 community volunteers come out to work together with us on the road. This year we had around 30 volunteers! We are prayerful that this indicates a willingness of the community to perceive us as part of the community rather than as a foreign aid agency. This has been a perception problem that we have been wrestling against since we began.

The acceptance of the road being a community responsibility and believing that they can help themselves with the help of God is a big step in the process of overcoming “a poverty of being” that is well entrenched in our people group. As Chief Mumena recently shared with me, “The Kaonde are a noble people with many talents. They just need to re-find themselves again.” The word matenda may be a language key that helps them to do just that!

We are on Facebook

In trying to communicate with as many people as possible, we have a team page on Facebook. Become a fan to keep updated with everything that is happening in Mumena.

Mumena Missions

Team Newsletter: February 2010

Rick — Sat, 13 Mar 2010 05:47:00 +0000

Read our Team Newsletter

Below is a copy of the text from the newsletter:

February is a hard time for the farmers in Zambia. Most of them have eaten all their stored maize (corn), so they are left searching for something to replace their staple food.

Appropriate Technology – Rick

Building a compost pile

One of the major problems that causes starvation and malnutrition in Zambia is dependency on maize.

Everybody grows maize even though it is the most expensive crop to grow and has the lowest price when it is time to sell. That doesn’t make any sense, but people cannot risk change because they fear their family might starve. Before changing, they have to see something that works better.

Since I live among farmers, it is important for me to relate to their struggles. So, I started a garden this year. However, I want to introduce simple and cheap technology that can drastically improve gardening. This is called Appropriate Technology.

A rope pump is an example of that. For about $40 (which is cheaper than one bag of fertilizer), a rope pump can be made that can pump water from up to 150 feet. This can be put on any type of well (like a traditional hand dug well).

This simple pump can enable anybody to make a garden near their village (It also has the bonus of providing water for drinking, cooking, and bathing). The people can see the benefit, make the well and pump themselves, and pay for everything without any help.

A local youth testing the rope pump

As we are teaching the Kaonde we must be the salt in their community that causes them to thank God for our presence, which Jesus spoke about in Matthew 5. Even here people want to see your love in action before they trust your words.

Hopefully, by showing them a way to feed their own families on earth, they will also understand that God wants to give them spiritual food.

Rick & Karen Love

Standing? – Brian

It is quite a contrast between the snowy United States and the balmy Central African tropics! We arrived back from our furlough after a leisurely 9 hour lay-over in London. This actually worked to our advantage as we have experienced less jet lag than usual. As we have gotten back into the swing of things here, we were trembling as we wondered what we would find.

You never know what you are going to come back to. For instance my gardener decided to “skip” work for the three months prior to our arrival. Thus the garden was ruined. Thankfully our new grocery store was still in business, but our gardener is now un-employed. The much greater test is whether the new churches “skip” worship for the missionary’s furlough.

While delivering this year’s invitations to our April Bible School, we have seen time and time again young churches who are focused on being faithful and who – in some cases – are even growing numerically. This is an important test of each missionary’s work. The rains have been harsher than usual this year with many villages being flooded out and several houses collapsing. Thus we have been prevented from visiting our outlying congregations as of yet, but we hope to pass the test as the roads begin to become passable.

“The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house; yet it did not fall, because it had its foundation on the rock.”
Matthew 7:25 NIV

Pray that our outlying young churches stand on the Rock!

Brian & Sondra Davis

We are now on Facebook

In trying to communicate with as many people as possible, we now have a team page on Facebook. Become a fan to keep updated with everything that is happening in Mumena.

Mumena Missions

Love Letters (News): January 2010

Rick — Sat, 20 Feb 2010 05:49:00 +0000

View Love Newsletter January 2010

Above is the link to the newsletter in PDF format for printing and easy reading. You can also download it and print it out from there.

Below is a copy of the text from the newsletter:

The rainy season is an uneventful time in rural Zambia. It seems like time stops as everyone gets into a busy routine of working in the fields and seeking shelter when the rain comes. This slow-paced, down-to-earth lifestyle allows deep relationships to grow between everyone in the community.

Accountability Group – Rick

The Accountability Group building a house for an elderly man who had no shelter Among the young men who come to the Bible studies, many of them have had difficulty changing their lives. Lying, getting drunk, and sleeping around are the norm here among young people. These young men that want to change don’t know how to stop. We started an accountability group in December where everyone would have to speak openly about their mistakes. By confessing our sins to those we trust, we learn to stop lying. By speaking about drinking and sleeping around, we see how it destroys our lives. Rather than inviting each other to go drink or “chase women”, we spend time together doing good. Some of the men are finally starting to change their lives and reputations in the community. Hopefully, after many years, these men will become the future leaders of the church and leaders in their communities.

Women’s Bible Study – Karen

In January, we began a ladies’ bible study. My three closest Zambian friends are meeting so far. We have been going through the book of Romans as well as looking through the scriptures on how to live as Godly women should. Women here are silent and have been taught from infancy to keep quiet about ones thoughts and emotions. One question that has surfaced on more than one occasion is: “Karen we don’t know how to love. Many of us mamas do not love our children. Also, our husbands, our neighbors, and others in our villages don’t know. How do we love our children?”

How do I answer that? We have been studying for a few weeks now, and already, I am seeing changes in some of the women and an openness that is encouraging. There is still much ground to cover, but they have taken steps in the right direction. Please pray for these beautiful ladies and their families.

Sam & Ellie Rodriguez’s Survey Trip – Rick

Sam and Ellie visited from Cedar Hill in January. They came because they are considering joining the team next year to continue the work that Don and Rita Boyd have been doing. We enjoyed their visit and their involvement with the Bible studies while they were here. They saw the reality that they would possibly be coming back to live here in the next year. If God continues to bless those plans we look forward to having them as part of our team-family.

Christmas – Karen

Christmas dawned full of sunshine and eager little Loves longingly staring at the stockings hung with care (ducked taped to the window sill) and presents under the Christmas tree. At first we thought we’d have a quiet little Christmas in the bush since our team mates were out on furlough or spending the holiday with old friends until Rick surprised us with a nice Christmas gift. After peaking in our stockings, ripping open our presents, and enjoying fruit salad, hot cinnamon rolls, and hot cocoa for breakfast, Rick packed up the family and drove us to a nice restaurant in Solwezi. We enjoyed Christmas dinner (chicken instead of turkey) and more ‘Zambianized’ cooking which was delicious. While there, the kids enjoyed pony and horse rides, a blow-up jumping castle, a blow up water slide, and even Santa was there. Matthew and Lydia enjoyed seeing Santa though Matthew, our sweet little four year old, said in the car, “Santa is pretend, but God is real.” He’s on the right track of where his heart should be. It was a lovely family day that we will remember and treasure.

Matthew’s School – Rick

Matthew started Kindergarten when Sam and Ellie arrived with his schools books. We are using a Home School curriculum called Sonlight. The school mainly consists of reading interesting stories together and then discussing them together. So far, he really enjoys it. He is free to go at whatever pace he wants in each subject. In this way, he is engaged in the subject with understanding and enjoyment rather than slugging through boring subjects with confusion. No surprise, his favorite subject is Math and we will have to get the 1st grade Math book soon.

May God bless you and your family,

Rick and Karen Love

Love Letters (News): September - October 2009

Rick — Sat, 07 Nov 2009 01:21:00 +0000

View Love Newsletter 2009-10

Above is the link to the newsletter in PDF format for printing and easy reading. You can also download it and print it out from there.

Below is a copy of the text from the newsletter:

New Christians at Kankuwa

Two weeks ago after the Bible study at Kankuwa, two people wanted to become Christians. We taught a brief lesson about baptism and then two others said they wanted to be baptized again because they did not know what they were doing the first time. That afternoon the four of them were baptized into Jesus.

When one of the women went home her husband was angry with her because she was baptized. However, the church met with them over the next week and helped calm him down. Please pray that he will also listen to Jesus and follow Him.

New Restoration Bible Study

Last month we started a new Bible study for many of our friends who attend denominational churches. We want to teach them to follow only the Bible. They have enjoyed hearing this new idea and are beginning to understand how they can follow Jesus himself rather than doctrines that change his teachings.

Harding Visitors

We had an excellent visit from a group of Harding students who are currently attending Harding in Zambia. While they were here, they attended some classes about missions, went to a Seminar with the Congolese refugees, and had an early Trick or Treating for our kids. Everybody enjoyed their visit and we hope Harding will come again next year.

May God bless you and your family,

Rick and Karen Love

Love Letters (News): August 2009

Rick — Wed, 23 Sep 2009 14:08:00 +0000

View Love Newsletter 2009-08

Above is the link to the newsletter in PDF format for printing and easy reading. You can also download it and print it out from there.

Below is a copy of the text from the newsletter:

Many exciting things happened in August. We were able to participate in a marriage seminar, the churches had many great meetings, and two of our friends had babies.

African Marriage Seminar

Fieldon and Janet Allison have been missionaries in Africa for over 20 years. They are traveling through Zambia and teaching marriage seminars as they go.

We invited 10 married couples to come and attend the three day seminar. The seminar’s purpose was to train the couples so they could teach others. We also attended the lessons. They were very helpful and were well suited for the village context. The Allisons understand this culture well and taught what was most helpful for them. We hope that the couples will improve their marriages and teach others as well.

Youth Seminar at Campande

Seeing the need to reach to the youth in Mumena, Campande church held a youth seminar and invited all the young people in the local area. The meeting was from Friday night to Saturday afternoon. Two local leaders taught as well as Brian Davis and myself. We taught how each person must choose which path they will go.

One young man was baptized into Christ and many others have started to attend on Sunday morning. The leaders at Campande church have decided to have meetings for the youth at least twice a year. Pray that the other churches will also begin holding youth seminars and that the young people will dedicate their lives to Jesus.

Lucia’s Baby

Karen’s good friend Lucia had a baby at the end of the month. She wanted Karen to be there, so we took her to the hospital and Karen helped her throughout the night. The baby was born at 2AM. Karen and Emily stayed with Lucia and helped her care for the baby the rest of the night. Lucia asked Karen to choose his name, so she chose Daniel after Karen’s brother.

May God bless you and your family,

Rick and Karen Love

Love Letters (News): July 2009

Rick — Fri, 03 Jul 2009 05:18:00 +0000

View Love Newsletter 2009-07

Above is the link to the newsletter in PDF format for printing and easy reading. You can also download it and print it out from there.

Below is a copy of the text from the newsletter:

Everything has slowed down a bit here since most of the visitors from America left during the first part of July. Our family has moved where the Bruingtons used to live before they left. The bigger house has been a great blessing to us now that we have three children. The people who come to the weekly Bible studies are continuing to grow in understanding and love for others.

Kankuwa Church Update

In the last newsletter, I mentioned a man named Gladson. He had been persecuted by his family because of his father Sawanda. Well, about a week after writing the last newsletter, Gladson was physically attacked by his brothers with the support of Sawanda, his father. He escaped by fleeing from his village. Since then, he has been renting a house in a nearby village, while getting ready to build a new house.

Still after being attacked, Gladson has refused to go to the police. He has forgiven his father and brothers and continues to pray that they can change their hearts and come back to God.

Gladson has lost all of his possessions and continues to love those who attacked him. His example has truly been a blessing to the Kankuwa church.

At the same time while building his new house, he has continued to help lead the church. They have completed the new church building, organized a seminar for August, and continue teaching and inviting everybody in the area to learn about Jesus.

In the past three months, they have gone from 8 people to about 40. About 20 people have returned and many visitors are now regularly attending. These people have seen the love of God through Gladson and now they are also following Jesus without fear.

Because everyone has heard what has happened to Gladson, many Christians from the other churches in Mumena want to help him. They have arranged a work day on August 29^th where they will be making mud bricks for his house.

All of this has shown how God can turn an evil situation into a blessing for His family.

John 13:35 “By this all people will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another.” – HCSB

Family News

This month we moved into our new house. In addition to moving, I also have been building some furnishings that were unfinished. Now we have a place for everything and can organize our house. This really helps us feel at home here. Also, Matthew’s birthday was last month. He was glad to have some of his friends, the Bruces, visit from Solwezi. We played many games like bobbing for apples and musical chairs.

With the campaigners gone, there are four families remaining: Don & Rita Boyd, Brian & Sondra Davis, Phil & Paula Sullivan, and us. Phil & Paula are here for six months to help the team and work with different projects like well drilling and education. More than that, Paula has been a great help for Karen with the children.

We are glad to be a part of this team and can see how God is blessing the Kaonde through our combined efforts.

May God bless you and your family,

Rick and Karen Love

Love Letters (Missions): Appropriate Technology – Wooden Wheelbarrow

Rick — Tue, 17 Mar 2009 06:37:00 +0000

Appropriate Technology means introducing innovative ideas that actually improve peoples lives. The technology must be appropriate to the needs, culture, knowledge, and abilities of the people. It should be something they can accept and “run with” by making additional products or spreading the use of the technology. This is positive development for the people.

American Tractor VS Manual Labor

Americans can’t ship a tractor to Africa and expect the people to benefit from it. Its not realistic to the actual needs and abilities of the people. Let’s consider just the economics of a tractor among the Kaonde and compare it to hiring piecework (piecework is the wage that the Kaonde pay each other for manual labor – about $2.50/day):

	Tractor	Piecework (hiring neighbors)
Initial Cost	$20,000 - 40,000 (donated)	$0
Fuel per hectare (100m * 100m)	about 5 gallons
Cost per hectare	$20 (just fuel)	$14 (common wage)
Maintenance	$5,000/year	$0
Benefit	Makes Americans feel good about donating.	Providing piecework prevents your neighbor from starving.

The bottom line is that it is cheaper to hire piecework (and it helps the people you are hiring) than the fuel for a tractor.

So what can we do?

I believe the greatest changes are the little things that can help the people on a daily basis. It takes much time and understanding of the culture in order to see these possibilities. Since we live here and see the people’s struggles we have the time and insight. There are many ways the Kaonde could improve their lives, but we must be considerate of how they can accomplish those changes. For hundreds of years, western technology has been pushed onto the Africans. However, they have not benefited much from it because it is not appropriate African technology.

The Wooden Wheel Barrow – Appropriate African Technology

A wheel-barrow can save hours a day and relieves suffering because the women can push the wheel-barrow instead of carrying the weight on their heads and eventually injuring their necks. I asked the team about this idea and they all thought that this would indeed be a very useful tool for most people, but it is beyond their reach. A used wheel-barrow from town costs $20, equivalent to about two weeks piecework (minimum wage which is more than most people earn in the bush). Also, the transport to town to bring back a wheel-barrow would cost an additional $12.

So, I started asking my friend Nixon Mofya about this idea. (He is a young man who translates for Bible studies while he is not at school.) We looked at the idea of buying used wheel barrows from town and transporting them in bulk to the village area. However, the cost was still too high for most people.

So, we decided to design a cheap wooden wheel-barrow. It uses locally available wood (which is mostly used for firewood) and a few supplies from the market in town (nails, some short pipes, and a piece of rubber used by the shoe-repair men). The material for this wooden wheel-barrow is about $4 and is easily transported. (Compare this to a new metal wheel-barrow from town which is anywhere from $20-$70.) Best of all, anyone can fix it if it breaks. Even the wheel is made from wood with a rubber pad around the surface and a metal pipe around the axel to give it some durability.

A wooden wheelbarrow with 6 20 liter water containers (200 lbs)

Nixon and I spent about 2 mornings making the first one. This was a good way to spend some time with him and others and it showed that I as a missionary am interested in the people's lives in the community. After the first one was finished, others are building them now by copying it as a model. Every village can easily afford to make one or buy one from someone who is building them. So with a some serious thought, we can introduce simple ideas that can dramatically improve their lives. Eventually, the people will get the idea that they can improve their own lives by using the resources around them.

Love Letters (News): Emily Mutende Love is Born

Rick — Sun, 15 Mar 2009 16:03:00 +0000

Emily Mutende Love was born at 18:45 Cairo Time (11:45 AM Central) on March 15, 2009.

She weighed 3.6 kg (7.9 lbs) and is very healthy. She has a full head of hair.

Since Emily is truly “African American”, we wanted her name to be appropriate. We chose the word “mutende” which means “peace” in Kiikaonde as here middle name.

A few days ago, we drove to Mukinge mission hospital which is about 1.5 hours from our house in Mumena. We are staying at the house of an American doctor who is visiting the states. This has worked out well and we have been able to relax in a home environment and wait for Emily to arrive. We will return after Karen has a few days to recover.

Love Letters (Culture): Rumors and Lies

Rick — Sun, 01 Feb 2009 06:55:00 +0000

Living in Mumena, it is amazing to see the power of the rumor. Rumor is the main source of knowledge for the Kaonde people. Most everything they believe is based in what they have heard from others by word of mouth. In addition, this is a major entertainment for their lives. Most Kaonde sit around the camp fire each night listening to the latest rumors. This is their news, their entertainment, and their culture.

The best thing I can compare this to is junk email. However, most educated people who have access to email know to be skeptical of anything they read in an email forward. Even someone who is very gullible does not waste much time talking about what they have read in the latest email forward.

However, rumors are treated quite differently by the Kaonde. First of all, they don't have any concept of fiction. Everything they hear is considered true. Even the educated in Zambia are taught by rote memorization. So everybody is taught to believe everything and doubt nothing. Very few ever doubt what is spoken. Even fewer think rationally about the rumors or say to themselves, "That doesn't even make sense."

This way of thinking is often called puddle thinking. Each random belief is considered true. It is never evaluated or doubted in the person's mind. Because of this lack of reasoning, many contradictory beliefs can be "true" at the same time.

This all makes for a culture where lies spread like wildfire. In fact, the entire set of spiritual beliefs comes from these rumors. Each person's beliefs are based on what they have been told from their family, friends, neighbors, witch doctors, and others. Education and books (like the Bible) have very little input compared to the hours spent listening to these rumors each day.

In addition, rumors (just like news) focus on negative, extreme, or bizarre events. So because these are the main things that people talk about, it effects a person's concept of reality.

For example, in the 1980s a landowner killed a python on his farm. Soon after, the village where his farm workers lived started having fires. Each day a hut would burn down because of these spontaneous fires. The people started fleeing the village because they believed the spirit of the python was angry at the farmer. A local witch doctor told the farmer to make a certain sacrifice to appease the spirit of the python.

The police recommended the farmer should listen to the witch doctor. Because most of his workers had fled, the farmer finally relented and made the sacrifice. However, the fires continued.

Finally, a deranged boy was found starting a fire.

Clearly, from the story and a little thought, all the fires were caused by the deranged boy. However, if I tell this story here in Mumena, most people will have a different conclusion. Because they have more belief in bizarre spiritual events, they will believe that the spirit of the python had really started the fires instead of the boy. Even if I could convince them that the boy had started the fires, they would still believe that the python had something to do with it. Maybe the python had made the boy demented. In fact, as they retold the story to others, they would probably completely forget about the boy and embellish the parts about the spirit of the python. The focus is on strange and spiritual mysteries rather than evidence and logical thinking. After all, a story about a small boy starting fires is not nearly as interesting as an angry python spirit attacking and destroying an entire village.

I have thought about using this story as an example of how mysterious events often have logical causes. However, I am afraid if I mention anything about the python spirit, the point would be lost. The power of suggestion is so strong in this culture, that even if I tell the listeners that the story is a lie, they will still believe the story is true. Even some of my well educated friends will ask, "Is that true?" whenever I tell them about something that is obviously impossible and contradicts many of their beliefs. "What do you mean, 'Is that true?' Of course it's not true, use your brain a little bit. Why did you go to school for 12 years if you won't even think about what you hear?"

Love Letters (News): Christmas Time at Mumena

Rick — Sun, 01 Feb 2009 06:54:00 +0000

Our first Mumena Christmas was a beautiful hot and sunny one with rolling hills of green grass and trees. If you just close your eyes you can imagine they are all covered with snow and you can hear the far off distance sound of slay bells ringing.

The kids woke up excited knowing Christmas morning was the big day to open all the colorful presents under the tree. Matthew woke up to a train set already set up and ready to go. First we all set down and opened our stockings or "socks or Ocks" as Lydia would call them and try to put them on her feet. After that we had some fresh out of the oven blueberry muffins and hot chocolate. Then, with our bellies full, we tore into the Christmas presents patiently waiting under the tree. The kids had a ball. Every time Lydia was done opening a present she would look at us and say, "More, more, more." She sure picked that word up quick. Matthew was a great big brother and helped pass presents out to little sister as well as help mommy and daddy open theirs. Matthew and Lydia got a new marker board (with washable markers) that they absolutely love as well as a "car mat" to drive cars on through a little town. Even though Lydia is our sweet little girl, she has a fascination with cars and trains.

After our exciting morning of presents, muffins, and hot chocolate, we all (the team and some other missionaries who drove down for the occasion) met together at the Bruington's home for a delicious feast of turkey, ham, pork, and all the traditional Christmas trimmings. We even had our favorites pumpkin and pecan pie. We then spent the rest of the day playing games and enjoying one another's company. The whole day was a fun and relaxing day. We thank God that as much as we missed our families back home we were able to enjoy our "African" family and grow closer together praying for each other and for our families far away.

God bless all of you far away and know that we are well and love all of you so much.

Karen

Matthew and Lydia in their new chairs

Karen and baby showing a baby outfit

Rick, Matthew, and Lydia playing with a toy

Lydia Love's Birth

Rick — Thu, 15 Feb 2007 17:44:00 +0000

Lydia Marie Love was born February 12, 2007 at 5:25 pm. She weighed 7 pounds 6 ounces and was 19 inches long. She is very healthy and the delivery went well. We came home two days after her birth. Matthew was glad to see Lydia and Mommy. Now we are a happy family of four. We thank God for Lydia and we pray that we will be good parents for her. We plan to live our best example.

We have uploaded pictures of her at http://www.winkflash.com/photo/public.aspx?u=rickandkarenlove.

Every day pictures of Matthew

Karen - Woman4Christ — Mon, 28 Aug 2006 07:52:00 +0000

Matthew having fun.

Matthew's Birthday Pictures 7/29/06

Rick — Sun, 27 Aug 2006 14:33:00 +0000

Here are some pictures of Matthew's first birthday. He got to play in a fountain and had alot of fun.

Plan Modifications

Rick — Tue, 22 Aug 2006 12:31:00 +0000

Since we are now expecting another baby, we have decided to postpone moving to Zambia about half a year. Originally we were planning to move to Cedar Hill, Texas in November. They want us to work with them for 6 months before moving to Zambia. During that time they will support us. Now we will probably not move to Zambia until December or January. So the 6 months would not start until July.

Because of that we have to decide what to do from November until July. I will still be resigning from my job as a blind programming instructor at the beginning of November. I will probably get a job in Cedar Hill (or Dallas) as a programmer, but until then I will do freelance programming jobs over the internet. My parents have asked us to move to Tennessee in November. They of course want us to stay there as long as possible. However, even though the dates have changed, we still feel that we should be in Cedar Hill as much as possible.

What we will probably do is try to see if I can do freelance fulltime and still make enough to live on. We will probably spend November and maybe December in Tennessee. After that we will move to Cedar Hill. If the freelance work is successful, we will still be able to spend weeks at a time in Tennessee. Otherwise, I will probably have a job in Cedar Hill until July.

We hope I will be able to find enough work as a freelance programmer so that we will not be tied down to a particular place. That way, we will be able to travel and spend time with family before we move to Zambia.

In addition, freelance work might become a hobby while we are in Zambia, and a source of income while on furlough. Whatever the case, we plan to use whatever resources we have to serve God.

Family suprise!

Karen - Woman4Christ — Sun, 06 Aug 2006 15:38:00 +0000

We're a happy little family of three and we just found out that we'll soon be having the addition of a new baby sometime in late winter or early spring. We're all happily suprised. What a blessing.

Love Family Missions Blog

Rick — Sun, 06 Aug 2006 14:45:00 +0000

Welcome to our family blog!

Come back regularly to see what is happening with us and how are plans are progressing. We will also post pictures here regularly for you to view.