Well, we have been here in Kenya for two weeks now...it feels like it's been 2 days! It is flying by. On Tuesday, we went to the Korogocho Slum to visit the Baptist Youth Center there. I can’t even explain in words what this slum was like. It was quite different than the Kibera Slum we visited last week. So many thoughts went through our minds as we drove through and looked in the eyes of the lost and hopeless men, woman, and children.
We have all seen pictures of slums and poverty, but actually seeing it in person is so incredibly overwhelming and emotionally draining. There was a feeling of anger and despair in this place. It was so dark and eerie.
After traveling a little while through the dirt streets, we finally arrived at the Youth Center. It was in the heart of the slum. There was a huge trash heap behind the Center. It went for miles and the stench was almost unbearable, but when we stepped inside the gates of the Center there was a sense of peace. The presence of God was overflowing. We met the principal/preacher and walked around to all the classrooms. We were amazed at how respectful and disciplined the children were. The teachers and staff had a joy I've never seen before.
In the midst of all the darkness and despair there was this place that shined so bright. Cicely reminded us of how many times we put God in a box. We think He is only in America, but he is moving in hearts even in the most remote parts of the world. His love is great for the abandoned and neglected.
This Youth Center in the middle of this slum reminded me of Matthew 5:14, "You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden." These people were not discouraged by the darkness that surrounded them, instead they let their light shine before men. What an incredible testimony of God's love and faithfulness! He will hear all who call upon His name no matter if they live in a mansion in the city or in a house made of mud and sticks in the slums of Africa. God has truly made beauty from ashes and we are seeing it first hand!
We are still in awe of the hearts of the staff; their prayer is that the Center would be a place where people would see Jesus and where burdens would be lifted. Please continue to pray for our team, that we would keep strong as we continue to share the love of Christ.
Matt. 11:28 "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest."
The Kenya Girls (Tricia, Cicely, and Tori)
