Ministry Partners,
Today my phone says, “87 Degrees” but Alfred says “95”and with the humidity it feels MUCH hotter and my skin feels sticky. I was more than happy to get in the shower last night although this morning when I tried to turn off the very unusual water faucet I could not get it to shut off and had to have the receptionist come and show me how. Next time I will remember to turn the one handle only ½ way around and the other all the way around.
Last night I was finally able to get fish fillets, as other places have not had them although they are always on the menu. I like them as opposed to a whole fish as I do not have to worry about the much larger amount of bones in a whole tilapia. The potato large wedges were also the best I have had here, the only thing is I think they are prepared in a different oil as they are the same potato but are much cruncher on the outside and do not appear to be cooked longer. However, they gave me enough for two people, I requested ½ potatoes and ½ veggies but received only potatoes.
Fish fillets, lemon & potato wedges
Today was another late breakfast at 8 since we do not need to leave for prison, that is only a short distance (30 min.) until 2pm as the O.C. wants all prisoners to be in. Our comped breakfast was also generous although not a buffet. Not sure but I think the Spanish Omelet (made with scrambled eggs and a few bits of red and green bell peppers and no cheese) must have been made with at least 4 eggs. It came with juice, fried potatoes, 2 sausages, and a delicious vegetable medley of cabbage, carrot and onions. I ate all the veggies and could only eat about half of the rest so I gave the rest to Alfred
After breakfast, Aaron and I cleaned out the van because it tends to get in a jumble after a few days of travel. We also got a women’s bag ready for today's and tomorrows prisons, 1 with nylon backpacks and crochet caps for the children and the 2nd one with scarves and more caps. I then caught up on some workbook; I keep saying I need an assistant .
It was a 30 min. drive to the prison and although the O.C. was not there the Deputy O.C. welcomed us and the Social Affairs officer was also there. They had already gathered the men prisoners, some close to where we were, under a big tree and the others some distance away under another tree but the guys asked them if they could hear us with our new sound system and those men responded, “Yes.” It made perfect sense NOT to have them sitting with the other prisoners, as they would be in the hot sun. There was also a tarp to the right of us so the women had a place to sit, also under the shade of our tree.
But, when the guys asked the prisoners if they wanted them to speak in Luganda or Swahili they said, “No, Luo.” Although Alfred and Aaron but understand some Luo, neither of them are fluent in that language. Interesting how God provided for us today as an inmate who also spoke English well stepped forward and translated for me. He did will but during one object lesson, he was having trouble so Aaron stepped in. The Holy Spirit saw to it that regardless of any translation issues they heard what God wanted them to hear as almost every inmate responded to the invitations for salvation, forgiveness and apologizing. It was wonderful to see all the officers also respond to the three invitations.
Three men and one woman gave testimonies as to what God had done in their hearts during our time together. I was able to give each of the women a nylon backpack and caps to the two children. At the end as the Deputy O.C., who had sat through our entire program, made some nice comments about what we had done, I had the opportunity to hold one of the children and give a kiss on the forehead. It was another wonderful day.
A distance after leaving the prison I saw three children alongside the road. I told Aaron to stop and I got out and retrieved some caps from my supplies, a fourth child appeared. What fun to give them each a cap.
I ordered fish fillets again because the hamburger I wanted was not available but this time they added the wonderful sautéed cabbage, carrot and onion vegetables that we had had for breakfast. Although it was good, I could not eat it all so I shared some fish with Aaron. As we were finishing eating we could hear the loud music coming down the street and as they passed by I could see people dancing in the street. Aaron says that the election campaign celebrations will go on until the election on Jan. 15th .
It is 7:30 and I have yet to bathe so will close for today. Amazing that I can go to bed before 10.
Please continue praying for the prisoners and guard’s salvation and that we would find favor with them and everyone we meet. Also for our health and safety.
That none would be lost,
Arlene
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