Makki Diary 09-01-2002

Another diary entry... on Jo's birthday!

~ Pete

9th January 2002

Again, writing in the morning rather than in the night time... Can't really remember what happened yesterday... my brain is still waking up even after doing the radio this morning. Boy! were there heaps of messages this morning... at least I was able to say "Happy Birthday" to Jo. Miss her very much. Hope she has a good birthday.

Yesterday, the Wiegand family left to go back to Arba Minch. Danielle, the STA from Germany remained behind to leave with the Geddes. The Geddes will be leaving tomorrow. Helped Rohan cleaned the storage tent yesterday and also had a look at the literacy project. The Mursi are producing their own newsletter! This is truly amazing! Barb has asked me to keep an eye out on the Literacy press when they leave for Addis... and also try to work out a sorting system. Yesterday also fixed up the broken door handle on the bathroom door!

Also had time to do some reading and personal reflection. Reading Chuck Swindol's book, "The Mystery of God's Will". Been thinking about what are the things that keep me from taking risks to do God's will, and whether I'm willing to take risks to do God's will. I guess the things that make me hesitant to take risks to do God's will are: fear of the uncertainties, the costs involved... personal sacrifices... and sacrifices on the family, loss of creature comforts, not living a 'normal' existence.

Having lived with the Geddes family for nearly a week now, I can see the great costs involved in living as a missionary family... I admire their courage and dedication to God, and their love for the Mursi that they would stick at sharing the Gospel with them. There has certainly been great rewards and sacrifices.

Being here has really challenged me about the promise I made to God that I would go wherever He leads and do whatever He tells me. Being here has opened my eyes to the reality of what the promise may entail. I pray that God would empower me with the courage and faith to follow through on the promise.

Makki Station (Photo courtesy of The Mursi Team)