Saturday – “The Good Shepherd”

We had time this morning to do some final preparation for today’s activities for the children and prepare other items to share next week.  Most unexpectedly, we saw a group of young men entering the courtyard with large drums on their heads.  Quickly we recognized them to be Burundian drummers!  This is a wonderful treat to perhaps catch sight of amazing musicians, who are also strong athletes and singers.  We wondered if we could at least watch them practice a bit before leaving for Homecare.  Curious Americans (and bold), our group made their way to where they were setting up.  Quickly engaged in conversation, we discovered that this was not only a professional drumming group, but they were also believers who worked with Youth For Christ in Burundi!  Instead of just relaxing on the lawn, they proceeded to set up their drums, invite us to join in, drum with them, and even give us dancing lessons!!  Wait ‘til you see the pictures. They were so very gracious and generous with their time.  What a way to begin the day

Kid’s Day!  While it is VBS time in the States, and most children have the opportunity to go to Sunday School, that is not the case here.  For those who eagerly came to Homecare today, it was indeed a special occasion- something just for them.  All ages, from infants to early teens, gathered for singing, Bible study, crafts and games.  The team did a great job of preparing activities that captivated and delighted these children of all ages!

The first day we were here, we heard the testimony of a mother who told how she and her children shared a very small space for shelter.  There is no door to their little place, so at night she makes a place on the floor for the children; then she lies down across the opening space to, in effect, be their door and protection.  We all gasped a bit when she said this, for we knew that the lesson prepared for today was based on John 10, explaining about The Good Shepherd who lies down across the opening of the sheepfold and sacrifices all to protect His sheep! What a confirmation.

Music and dance are “naturals” here!  The songs the team prepared were fun, engaging, and Biblically based that immediately drew them in.  “I am Somebody” was the opening song, letting them know right away that they ARE somebody because God made them!  This led to more worship songs that set the stage for the day.  Then Amber explained what a sheep is, what they are like, and how and why they need a shepherd.  Elizabeth’s daughter had created a beautiful drawing of a shepherd protectively guarding his flock in the sheepfold so that they could visualize how the shepherd cards for his sheep.  A number of the kids acted the roles of sheep, while an amazing young fellow, named Pacifique, played the shepherd, blocking entrance or exit from the fold.  It became clear to them how Jesus loves them, us, and is our protector.  Then the children got to make their own sheep, using their own thumbprints to create a sheep, complete with “googly” eyes.  A larger version was created to hang at Homecare, made with the thumbprints of the team, staff, and moms present.  What a great reminder of our Great Shepherd and how He loves us!

 

Along with crafts, there was also a fun game time, led by Alan.  It was interesting to see them play “The Shepherd Says” version of Simon says.  Some things are just universal:  laughter, play, smiles, and FUN!

As snacks were handed out, it was very apparent to us that many of these children had probably not eaten today.  The thought was very sobering, and sad.  Many of the mothers had babies draped across their backs.  Several of these wee ones were agreeable to let many of us love on them…..what a joy!

As the we concluded our time, the children and mothers filed out of Homecare with smiles on their faces, and prayerfully, more understanding of Jesus in their minds and hearts.  Peace reminded us that this day will stick in their minds for a long time, the day visitors came, played, hugged, and loved them and told them about Jesus.

We ended the day with dinner by Lake Tanganyika, dining in what we have affectionately come to call “The Hippo Place.”  This is a good spot along the coastal road to spot hippos descending from Congo to find the marshlands along the lake shore.  You have to catch it just right for a sighting.  We’ve only caught it a few times in a number of years.  Unfortunately, no sighting tonight, but what a beautiful night to sit near the water under a glistening Burundi full moon!

Tomorrow we join with 2000+ worshipers at Life Center Church.  Many of the team will be a part of the praise team leading worship.  We are looking forward to it with great anticipation.  We have a wonderful team!  Each one is participating fully and with whole hearts. Thank you for praying for us, for the Homecare staff, and everyone involved in this center.  God is here; He is truly at work!  Our God is GOOD, and worthy of all praise!!