Wednesday, September 25, 2013

Music for My Soul Today

This morning I was up at the kids' school and heard singing from one of the rooms.  I realized that it was the elementary school's weekly chapel time so I walked over to listen from outside the door.  The sounds I heard ministered to me in such a powerful way as the children sang out praises that their God is faithful in all things.

These children have all lost something in the attacks at Westgate.  Many of them knew someone who was in the mall when it was attacked.  Many of them know someone who lost a family member in the attacks.  Almost all of them have been to Westgate to watch a movie, to eat a nice lunch out and to tag along while their parents do their grocery shopping.  Westgate Mall was a safe place for them.  For these young children, this attack is all too real.  It is an attack on their innocence and on their security. That is why we are trying to help them stand on the truth of the gospel which is their true safe place and their strong foundation.  We are so blessed that as we struggle as parents with how much to say to our kids and how to help them process this tragedy, the school comes alongside us and supports them by reminding them of the truth of the gospel.


As I listened to the words of the songs they were singing, I was especially touched to pick out the sweet sound of one of my own children's very enthusiastic voice.  I pulled out my phone because I knew I wanted to hear this sound again and this song has been on repeat for me this morning.  I have always liked this song by Matt Redman, but it has never held so much meaning as it did this morning.  I hope that it will minister to you as well.




Just click the play button!

Tuesday, September 24, 2013

Westgate Mall Seige is Over

After 4 long days, the siege on Westgate Mall is finally over.  It has been a tense few days as we waited for resolution.

61 civilians died
7 security forces were killed
5 hostages were killed
11 suspects are in custody
175 people were hospitalized for injuries
65 people are still missing

Tonight 3 floors of the 4 story mall collapsed, likely leaving many bodies in the rubble.

Tomorrow begins 3 days of mourning for the nation.

Please keep praying for Kenya.

Here is a blog post that helps guide Christians in a proper response to such attacks.  I pray that this nation will respond well to this tragedy.

Thank you for your prayers and for your many expressions of concern.

Sunday, September 22, 2013

Attack on Westgate Mall in Nairobi

Most of you have probably seen the news about the violent attack at Westgate Mall in Nairobi.  The attack is ongoing as there are currently 30 hostages still in the mall with 10-15 gunmen.  59 people have died and there are 175 hospitalized with injuries.  This has been going on for more than 25 hours as it began mid-day Saturday.

Our family is fine.  Westgate Mall is a mall that we frequent when we shop for groceries, but we didn't venture to Nairobi this weekend as we had activities at the kids' school on Saturday morning.

Please pray for this ongoing situation, for the families of those who have died and for healing for those injured.  We pray also for healing and protection for Kenya.

We are so thankful for your prayers.