A Vision for the Wilderness

The problems of any society aren't easily solved. When Lawrence and his family moved into the Savannah area early this year, they knew they were entering a difficult field of labor. The poverty and recurring famine had kept the region on the edge of survival. Many people spent their days in labor camps just to get a meal.

As ministers of God's love, they came with a vision to live the gospel among the poor and needy. A vocational school and training center would be established. It would take in paying students and market the items produced, thus covering costs and providing a base for local outreach and care for the destitute orphans and elderly. Given skills to become self-supporting and a place to meet for hope and encouragement, they believed life could be different for these people.

I know the desire to make a difference. And the set backs.
In a rented facility (pictured here in the spring) they were enabled to start the “Bible Center,” so-named because bringing students to an understanding of God's truth is at the heart of the study program.
Lawrence writes: "We were hoping to use part of this big building as classes and the other end as dormitories for girls---they are more than the boys. Unfortunately, there is no electricity and water and we have difficulties paying the rents. We are praying for a low cost alternative." They would like to board 40+ students, when they are able to equip for the undertaking.

It is hoped that operating from purchased land will give the work a better footing. At this time the Lord has enabled them to buy a piece of property, which sells for very cheap in this barren area, but there are no funds to start building on it yet.
Despite the slow progress, they are encouraged that this is the work the Lord has given them to do. Here several ministers listen as one brother expounds a scripture. The establishing of the Center has already been a blessing, providing a place for spiritual fellowship and a base for several “Applied Technology Training” sessions. In God's own way, He will provide for the rest.

These women are enjoying a meal served at the Center for trainees.

Several outdoor classes have been given this summer. Here Lawrence demonstrates the making of detergents for home use and resale.

Ministers from local communities have been learning how to process and pack food for resale and for future use. The aim is to train ministers who can train others in their congregations. Widows and orphans are also welcomed in these sessions.
These drying tables were made to show how fruits and vegetables can be safely preserved.

Besides teaching in practical skills this summer, calls to hold gospel meetings in other localities and the maintenance of the Center at Makindu have kept these dear ones very busy. With such pressing needs and slow progress, the outlook can be disheartening. You wish you could solve it once and for all – alleviate the suffering and supply every need. But God doesn't work that way, does He?

A quote on my wall is a meaningful reminder: “Jesus Christ didn't come into the world to explain away suffering or remove it. He came to fill it with His presence.” Why? Because only His presence will truly satisfy our hearts. God wants us to know Him and the power of His love. Yes – you and me – in our foolish materialism and petty pride. So when we take His hand and trust Him with our lives, should we be alarmed when He walks us into trouble?

Hear the intent of the Divine heart: “Therefore, behold, I will allure her, and bring her into the wilderness, and speak comfortably unto her. And I will give her vineyards from thence... a door of hope” (Hosea 2:14,15).

Yes, hope in the midst of the impossibilities of life. We need this vision when the wilderness is endless and our resources have run out. It is not about our success and alleviating suffering, after all. It is knowing the eternal God as our refuge, our fountain of living water, our source of delight. In His mercy, He measures out our troubles and heeds our cries for help. But we only know the fullness of joy when we let Him sanctify to us our deepest distress.

Do you want to see your wilderness blossom as the rose? Let God lead you to find your joy and comfort in Him, and Him alone.