Recently, we’ve been experiencing heavy thunderstorms and hail here in Pretoria. Although the climate here is generally dry, we do encounter periods of severe weather like this. During such storms, power outages occur and can last for days. Lightning strikes are also common; last year, a nearby security gate was struck by lightning, taking many weeks to repair.
But when you hear thunder, you know that you’d do well to get to shelter. The storm is announcing its arrival.
“God thunders wondrously with His voice; He does great things we cannot comprehend.”
Job 37:5 (ESV)
God’s thunder signals His arrival in our lives, just like the thunder announces storms here in Pretoria. The wonders He has performed for us are beyond comprehension. Pay attention, listen for His voice. He will speak, and it will be extraordinary.
Updates
Burundi
Our trip to Burundi went very well. While there, we connected with the church and spent time encouraging the leaders. It is very rewarding to see how much the church has grown. This is what we work for: to see the work continue beyond us.
We informed you last month that one of our key leaders (Kadjabe) in the church was facing serious health challenges. Although he still has a long road ahead, his condition is stable, and he has received good medical advice. However, his situation is serious and might require him to travel out of the country for treatment. Burundi’s limited medical services make it difficult for him and his young family. Please keep them in prayer. We are all trusting God for a complete restoration to health.
The progress on Anna’s House in Gatumba, next to our Hope Center outreach, is fantastic! It has taken longer to complete the work than we initially expected due to the challenging situation in Burundi. Fuel is scarce, making everything from getting materials to transporting them difficult. Additionally, since Kadjabe is unwell (he was supervising the renovations until he fell ill), we have had to proceed more slowly. However, we’ve been able to adapt to these challenges, and the work is nearing completion. We plan to dedicate and launch the project by March or April next year.
As we approach completion, we are starting to work on the actual outreach budgeting. While we will keep expenses as low as possible, some costs will still be incurred. Pray with us that all needs are met. God has faithfully taken care of us so far, and we trust He will continue to see us through.
Malawi and Mozambique
We reported to you that Malawi’s new president was being installed. Everything has settled, and the new administration has taken over. We are thankful for a peaceful transition.
The church’s leadership is developing well. As the church grows rapidly both in the country and in neighboring Mozambique, we are grateful for God’s provision of 36 new potential leaders. This is, once again, what we work toward; without leaders, we can’t go far. But God is faithful, and it’s happening!
Zambia
Thank you to everyone who responded to the call to complete the project in Zambia. The remaining funds needed for the main building have been received, and work is now underway.
Thanksgiving
We have so much to be thankful for this Thanksgiving month (for those of you in the USA). May the Lord bless you and keep you – we believe His thunder, His voice, will be with you.
Jamie, Lea, and Andreya
Connect with us:
Email: JLPeters@africa-and-beyond.com
Online: www.africa-and-beyond.com
Lea’s blog: www.aculturalshift.com
Pictures from the Hope Center and school in Gatumba, Burundi.
