Bronke May 2020
“Church-bells beyond the stars heard, the soul’s blood, The land of spices; something understood” —Excerpt from Prayer by George Herbert
Happy May! I pray you and your loved ones are healthy and well at this time. Those of us at Rafiki who have been working from home are returning to the office this week, and we look forward to meeting in the mornings and studying the Rafiki Bible Study together—at a safe social distance—once again.
As I mentioned in my April newsletter, I am in a waiting period as our country and African countries begin to open. As I am sure you can relate, this unprecedented time has taught me a few things about trusting the Lord:
• First, the Rafiki Bible Study is changing the way I view the Bible as I work through the studies with my coworkers and in a small group. I am so thankful for the Bible study and the opportunity to teach from it in Africa. Theologically-rich, it challenges me to make connections, ask questions, and strengthens my love of Scripture. The biblical motifs of kingship, priesthood, and redemption are more beautiful to me than ever. Consider using it for a (virtual) small group: https://www.rafikibiblestudy.org/#/.
• I have also been reminded that we serve God in every circumstance. Whether we are working from home or on the mission field, you and I work for God daily. Rafiki’s work continues, too. Take Malawi for example. Many African countries have closed down schools. While the Rafiki children live with extended family members for a time, the Malawi Village has provided them with food, masks, and the Rafiki Bible Study feeding them physically and spiritually. We pray for their safe return.
Resident student Mwai
Resident student Smart, receiving provisions in Malawi
• Lastly, I have learned from the former missionaries I work with to pray over every little thing. I can bring everything before God—from my to-do list, to my country assignment and leaving date. Will you pray with me for the leadership of Rafiki’s African countries, the health and well-being of Rafiki students and staff, and the Lord’s church around the world? I pray we all have a greater understanding of our need for the Lord.
God’s breath in man returning to his birth,
The soul in paraphrase, heart in pilgrimage,
The Christian plummet sounding heav’n and earth,
Engine against th’ Almighty, sinner’s tow’r,
Reversed thunder, Christ-side-piercing spear,
The six-days world transposing in an hour,
A kind of tune, which all things hear and fear;
Softness, and peace, and joy, and love, and bliss,
Exalted manna, gladness of the best,
Heaven in ordinary, man well drest,
The milky way, the bird of Paradise,
Church-bells beyond the stars heard, the soul’s blood,
The land of spices; something understood.
Thank you for partnering with me, especially during this time of uncertainty. Thank you for your prayers, patience, and support. Know I am praying for you!
To donate online:
• Go to www.rafikifoundation.org.
• Select “Support a Missionary” from the drop-down menu in the upper right.
• Find my photo and enter the amount that you would like to give. (You can make a one-time donation or a recurring donation.) Thank you!
To donate by check:
• Send your check to the Rafiki Home Office at PO Box 1988, Eustis, FL 32727 with my name and missionary number (#249) in the memo line.
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