Greetings from wet Karamoja

Our front yard

Warm greetings from a very wet Karamoja! I promised frequent updates and the main thing to report since I wrote two weeks ago is – rain, rain and more rain.

We are thankful for the Lord’s gracious provision. The ground is soft and wet and people are eagerly plowing fields and sowing their seed. We pray that God will continue to provide consistent rains, bless all of the hard work that takes place and provide a bountiful harvest. And we pray that His kindness would move many to repentance.

The rains do bring trials to life. In my last update I mentioned a storm in which lightening struck too close to home and ruined our power source. Well, this past week we had big trees blown down, one on Tuesday and two more on Thursday. And after Thursday’s storm we spent a couple of hours mopping up all the water which had blown into homes, ours as well as those of furloughing missionaries. Fun! Add to that the fact that the road is very muddy and vehicles are stuck all over the place these days. Travel is not easy. 

It also makes for a challenging time for the word ministry. The rains frequently come in the afternoons at the very times that we like to be in the villages leading Bible studies. And even if a rain does not prevent a study, it will likely be poorly attended as folks are so busy working in their gardens. And who can blame them for that? It is commendable that a hard worker should make the most of the days and hours, particularly the farmer during this important time.

However, in a culture where such a high percentage of our neighbors do profess Christianity, one would hope that the day of worship and rest would be seen as a welcome blessing. Sadly, however, churches are poorly attended this time of year as folks busy themselves with work rather than resting on the Lord’s Day.

So, it is a good time but also a challenging time. We welcome your prayers:

·         Praise the Lord for His provision of rain and pray for a good harvest this year

·         Pray for safety during heavy storms and travel on muddy roads

·         Pray that during these trying wet days we would be wise and faithful, making the most of ministry opportunities

·         Pray for a great spiritual harvest, that many would turn to Christ and find their rest in Him

May our Lord shower gospel blessings upon all of you as well!

In Him,

Dave Okken