Dear Friends,
I know our journey was somewhat interrupted over the past week. I started to think of missionary days in the past where communication was mainly by snail mail! Aren’t we blessed by modern technology?!
One of the reasons for the “radio” or “internet silence” was because the internet at the hotel was truly bothersome. The hotel is switching over to an increasingly popular service provider, but I got caught in its transitional stage. My side of the hotel did not have the modem equipment up and running yet. So late at night being the only time I could write, didn’t matter much. Yahoo also continued to disturb me throughout the journey. At times I chose not to fight the battle. I was also coming back to the room between 11:00 pm and 1:00 am each night. The internet challenge gave me the opportunity to actually get some sleep!
But that turned out to not be the main reason why I went silent. God was doing the miraculous. We were in awe of what was happening around us. When I sent those first couple of updates, it actually took me hours to put those together. I found it was taking me away from time with the kids, friends and preparation time for the events. So bottom line, I came to a decision and the kids won. It was important for me to be in relationship with the family. I knew you were all praying. I will now spend the next couple of days trying to catch you up. The stories will be just as powerful as if I wrote it on the day it happened. I have actually had time to process and readjust while I have been in Maryland with Carol, Diane, Teri and puppies . New insights have come during this time of debrief and reflection. I am just as excited to write and have you re-join the journey!
So as you anticipate reading more of the story, here is a preview of what the week has in store for you!
Church Services
The Crusade - Christ in You - The Hope of Glory
The Conference -
Step In - Lean In - Rise
Point the Way - Light the Way - Shine
He Loves Us - We Love Him - Go and Love Others
The Party
The Movies
The Send Off
I am currently at Reagan National Airport waiting for my flight. I would appreciate your prayers for safe travel!
Depart Washington DC Reagan National
Saturday, September 17, 2016
9:15 am
Alaska Air Flight 5
Arrival Los Angeles International Airport
11:52 am
I will be writing while in flight from Seat 7F! I am excited to see what that seat has in store for me!
California, here I come!
Mama Eydie Kisakye
Thursday, September 22, 2016
Wednesday, September 7, 2016
Chapter 22 - Update #5 - September 6, 2016
Yes, we missed stopping for chicken on a stick! It has become a “welcome to Uganda” tradition when I bring teams. There is a specific place we stop on the side of the road in between Kampala and Jinja. Once it becomes dark, the hustle and bustle of the market goes quiet. It is ok because the welcome phrase of Godfrey, “You look younger!” was better than a dozen chickens on a stick! (Yes, I am still soaking that one in as long as I can!)
Godfrey called the children to let them know we would stop at home first before taking me to the hotel. They were thrilled because usually I go to the hotel first to check in after traveling 24 hours. It was so late they did not expect me there until tomorrow. What they didn’t know was we were traveling with a FULL van!
Approaching the Nile River quickens my heart because I know in just a few short minutes I will be hugging the kids! Even in the dark as we cross the bridge, I can see clearly enough to know that I am finally home!
Once we turned onto our road and got close to the gate, my heart began to overflow with love. It was good to see the security wire around the perimeter wall. When Godfrey “hooted” the horn, I jumped out of the front seat and hid behind the van. They would be looking to the front seat knowing I was coming. I walked in behind the van as he approached the house. I could hear them screaming and laughing and shouting for joy! Then it became quieter, so I peered through the window from the back. I think Henry saw me because he quickly came running shouting my name, “Mama Kisakye!” All of a sudden I had at least 10 kids trying to hug me at the same time!!! Even little Jireh pushed her way through and hugged me with her arms wrapped around my knees! I was totally covered! As we walked into the house, more of the children came running out the door so we could hug and greet one another. I am home!
The storyteller in me desires to bring words to life so you can have a picture of what happened the next hour we were together. Think about how you feel when you see friends or family you have not been with in a long while. Now multiply that thirty two times! This is the excitement that was flowing through the room! After each one came to me with smiles and hugs, we settled into the living room. They always have my “queen” chair ready for me! Godfrey first welcomed me back home with kind words of love. We spent the first part of our time truly being thankful that we were once again reunited.
Godfrey then welcomes me to have a word for the children. Before we unveiled the contents of the van, we wanted to prepare their hearts. Godfrey does an excellent job discipling the children. God has blessed me with a person who has the same vision and operates in the manner I would if I was here. We have continually tried to teach truth and serve Christ with the highest integrity. In a culture that has been taught the only way to success is to take advantage of others by manipulating & deceiving, our children have been learning the lesson of becoming more Christ-like in every part of their lives.
A bigger lesson was at stake. Over the years, I have seen gifts given large or small, corrupt individuals who then want more. Our children have been preparing for a time such as this. They were able to see God’s hand in this provision. Because of the work done in discipleship since Godfrey began managing the home, together with my visit in January they were ready to humbly receive with thankful hearts.
I shared the story of how God worked from the time they wanted to postpone the crusade to when I received the news of the generous gift. Telling them in person was a priceless moment. It humbled all of us. They did not know the exact items purchased. We were waiting until this moment to stand overwhelmed at how God provided over and above. One by one, Godfrey and some of the older boys brought in the equipment. With each item brought in the house, the children lifted up their voices in praise! They were in awe to see how God had provided COMPLETELY!
We took a few moments before we brought in one of the last items. The keyboard was moved to phase 2. However, the donor knew how important that piece of equipment would be. The over and above gift was to help cover the cost of buying it for the crusade. Henry is the one who plays the keyboard on a regular basis. He told me later that when he was watching various boxes come in, he had hoped one would have the words written on it, “keyboard.” Box after box came in and not one was a keyboard. Henry was still thrilled with all the other items. He thought, “It will come when it is time.” Then he saw the box labeled “Yamaha.” Could it be? Could it be? He told me he just couldn’t believe it when he saw the words, “KEYBOARD!” He began jumping up and down and giving praise and thanksgiving to the Lord. They have been so thankful for the other one I brought with the team in 2013. But kindly he said, “That was has been more like a toy!” When I looked at the new one…he was right! There is no comparison at all! What else would we expect for a keyboard I bought at a garage sale for $20! It served its purpose and now is a backup!
Just when the kids thought we were finished, I told them there was one more gift. We had all developed the new sponsorship program together in January. They knew that I had asked all of the sponsors to give a monetary donation to buy the same gift for all. I think they thought we would buy more clothes for each one. I explained that I checked with Uncle Godfrey about buying this one gift for all…and it was a big! I had them close their eyes as Godfrey & Henry went to the van for one last box. As they entered the house, the children open their eyes…and I am sure you could only imagine the praise that erupted!! Didn’t you hear it? They were ecstatic with joy jumping up and down and shouting praises to the Lord. This gift was from all of you who personally sponsor our children on a monthly basis & others who designated funds. They send their deepest of thanks for the way you love them and care for them.
We closed out that time by giving our thanks back to the Lord. We dedicated the new “machines” for ministry not only for the crusade but for all future efforts to reach people for the gospel! Godfrey and I each gave a word and I closed with a song called, “Stolen” (oh wait, not the most appropriate song after just buying all of this!). Ha! It is a new song by Jason Gray. It was a reminder of the path we walked to get here. Over the past 10 years we have had many ups and downs. We have remained faithful standing on the promises of God. Part of the words to the song went straight to our hearts:
“If my life never would have been broken, then my hands never would have been open.
And my heart never would have been stolen.
But your love came to me at my lowest, and I’ve been singing ever since that moment
Hallelujah, my heart’s been stolen.”
We finished in a time of praising God, praying as a family, lifting up our voices to our God. The sound of the Raining Hope family joined together like this is one of the sweetest and most precious sounds I know of. Remaining speechless, mama eydie kisakye
Tuesday, September 6, 2016
Chapter 22 - Update #4 - September 5, 2016
When you are 35,000 feet in the air, everything looks so small. For much of the
trip during the day, all you see are pillows of white clouds that appear strong enough to walk on
or take a comfy nap in! During the evening all you see is the blackness of night. As we break
through the clouds to descend into Entebbe, it opens up to a world of color! Suddenly the
whiteness of clouds is replaced with patches of brown and green that represent life giving crops.
I see the familiar dirt roads that bring to memory the many miles walked & driven on over the past 10 years. Villages appear with houses or huts that look so small I could almost reach out and pick one up in-between my fingers! I don’t think this route passes through Jinja, but if it did I imagine seeing our children waving saying, “We are waiting to welcome you home!”
I began to think upon my very first trip. I didn’t know what was in store for me. What would this new place hold? Why was God bringing me half way across the world? What did my eyes see back then when I peered out the window? A whole new world was opening up for me. I believe that my eyes became a window that saw straight into my heart.
From 35,000 feet, my call to Uganda became clear. Of all the places on the face of this large expanse of earth, God uniquely called me to a home in Uganda. His assignment for me is to a group of 32 children in a home in Jinja. It is to the family of God at the Hotel Paradise. In such a large world, God chose me to serve here. What an honor and privilege it is to call this home.
As I heard the familiar announcement, “Cabin crew prepare for landing,” my heart began to quicken. Out the window I now could see Lake Victoria which always signals we are almost home. I starting thinking about Godfrey who was at the airport waiting to receive me. “What too must he be thinking now? As we approached the runway, I asked myself, “What awaits us on this journey? What will God do on trip number 22?” I realized that as we touched down all I was required to do was step into it and follow His lead. He has everything in His hands. The miraculous was waiting and He would receive all the glory. As I put my foot on Ugandan soil, or airport terminal floor (soil sounds better!) I dedicated this chapter to the Lord. I was seated near the back of the plane so I was near the end of the lines for passport control.
I see the familiar dirt roads that bring to memory the many miles walked & driven on over the past 10 years. Villages appear with houses or huts that look so small I could almost reach out and pick one up in-between my fingers! I don’t think this route passes through Jinja, but if it did I imagine seeing our children waving saying, “We are waiting to welcome you home!”
I began to think upon my very first trip. I didn’t know what was in store for me. What would this new place hold? Why was God bringing me half way across the world? What did my eyes see back then when I peered out the window? A whole new world was opening up for me. I believe that my eyes became a window that saw straight into my heart.
From 35,000 feet, my call to Uganda became clear. Of all the places on the face of this large expanse of earth, God uniquely called me to a home in Uganda. His assignment for me is to a group of 32 children in a home in Jinja. It is to the family of God at the Hotel Paradise. In such a large world, God chose me to serve here. What an honor and privilege it is to call this home.
As I heard the familiar announcement, “Cabin crew prepare for landing,” my heart began to quicken. Out the window I now could see Lake Victoria which always signals we are almost home. I starting thinking about Godfrey who was at the airport waiting to receive me. “What too must he be thinking now? As we approached the runway, I asked myself, “What awaits us on this journey? What will God do on trip number 22?” I realized that as we touched down all I was required to do was step into it and follow His lead. He has everything in His hands. The miraculous was waiting and He would receive all the glory. As I put my foot on Ugandan soil, or airport terminal floor (soil sounds better!) I dedicated this chapter to the Lord. I was seated near the back of the plane so I was near the end of the lines for passport control.
The health check you pass through now is designed to physically check your yellow
immunization card. That was a surprise to me. I was glad that the day before I left I got a
booster shot for typhoid. Because I didn’t have my passport for a couple of weeks while it took
it’s vacation without me, I didn’t know it was time for the booster. Whew! Covered!
Then came passport control. I have the uncanny knack of picking wrong lines. I pick a short line and it will inevitably turn into the longest line! I was just about the last person from the flight to approach one of the windows. I had been in the “Others” or “Visitors” line. But the “Ugandans” line had opened up so they moved me over to that window. I have called Uganda “home” so this seemed appropriate! We were fine until they had me use the fingerprint machine that is just a scan for the computer. The strange thing is, my fingerprints didn’t want to scan! The agent kept saying, “Push harder,” “It is easy,” “You have no fingerprints!” Still the machine just flashed a series of red lights (we’re looking for green!). I have never had a problem before! My thoughts turned to, “I made it all the way here and will be denied because my fingerprints now have taken a vacation!” Suddenly, the machine worked correctly and the lights turned a beautiful green! I was so thankful to see the “entry” into Uganda stamp on my Visa! As I walked away to collect my luggage I realized that episode was similar to what the enemy tries to do in our lives. He pulls out all the stops and tries to deny our entry to the blessings that God has waiting. Red lights can be flashing everywhere that feel like a dead end. Things in life sometimes don’t make sense. “You have no fingerprints!?” What?! Yet, God always gives the green light! When we persevere and don’t give up, our “fingerprints” will show up! Actually, His prints will be all over it!
As I pushed my luggage out to exit the terminal, I searched the crowd of faces. Immediately emerges the face of the one I was looking for ... Godfrey! What a welcomed sight with his huge grin! I know in that moment that I am in my Ugandan home. As we greet one another with a huge hug he then utters the familiar words, “Welcome back!” But then he said something that filled my heart... “You look younger!” Ha ha ! That was new! But you know that I loved it! We had a good laugh as that statement actually left me speechless. I thanked him and he said, “Younger is good! That just means He has added more years that we will have with you!” Don’t you love it!?
Then came passport control. I have the uncanny knack of picking wrong lines. I pick a short line and it will inevitably turn into the longest line! I was just about the last person from the flight to approach one of the windows. I had been in the “Others” or “Visitors” line. But the “Ugandans” line had opened up so they moved me over to that window. I have called Uganda “home” so this seemed appropriate! We were fine until they had me use the fingerprint machine that is just a scan for the computer. The strange thing is, my fingerprints didn’t want to scan! The agent kept saying, “Push harder,” “It is easy,” “You have no fingerprints!” Still the machine just flashed a series of red lights (we’re looking for green!). I have never had a problem before! My thoughts turned to, “I made it all the way here and will be denied because my fingerprints now have taken a vacation!” Suddenly, the machine worked correctly and the lights turned a beautiful green! I was so thankful to see the “entry” into Uganda stamp on my Visa! As I walked away to collect my luggage I realized that episode was similar to what the enemy tries to do in our lives. He pulls out all the stops and tries to deny our entry to the blessings that God has waiting. Red lights can be flashing everywhere that feel like a dead end. Things in life sometimes don’t make sense. “You have no fingerprints!?” What?! Yet, God always gives the green light! When we persevere and don’t give up, our “fingerprints” will show up! Actually, His prints will be all over it!
As I pushed my luggage out to exit the terminal, I searched the crowd of faces. Immediately emerges the face of the one I was looking for ... Godfrey! What a welcomed sight with his huge grin! I know in that moment that I am in my Ugandan home. As we greet one another with a huge hug he then utters the familiar words, “Welcome back!” But then he said something that filled my heart... “You look younger!” Ha ha ! That was new! But you know that I loved it! We had a good laugh as that statement actually left me speechless. I thanked him and he said, “Younger is good! That just means He has added more years that we will have with you!” Don’t you love it!?
We were definitely NOT speechless on the drive. Godfrey had decided that it was better we
buy the sound equipment today as we drove through Kampala. That way we avoid
having to come back to Kampala on Friday, saving petro (gas), time and the headaches of
daytime traffic. I wholeheartedly agreed to that plan if it saved us an extra trip!
Godfrey had been dealing with a business in Kampala for over a year now. He was compiling the list of equipment that we would eventually need. This particular shop deals with many churches in the area. They are reputable and fair. They even honored original prices from a year ago, even though their prices have risen. Godfrey said in Uganda it is very important to buy from the right people. Godfrey knew that we were purchasing quality equipment. So many other places are selling imitations that end up breaking after a short time of usage.
As we arrived, the shop owners had reserved a spot right in front of the shop to park. This in itself is not an easy task. They actually lost the original spot to another driver, but another spot miraculous opened up. Godfrey said it is a rare jewel to find a spot in such a crowded place. Having the list ahead of time, they were prepared for us. They had three other items that were needed in order for the equipment to run properly. Because of the generous donation above and beyond the need, we were able to add those items with no problem. There were a couple of things the shop gave us to borrow. We decided not to buy the guitars right now and add that in phase two. But the owners wanted us to have a full sound lacking nothing so they insisted we borrow two guitars! We finalized the list and had everything that we needed and more.
Because I had just arrived I had not exchanged money yet. We walked to one exchange center but they closed the door just as we walked up! We eventually found another one that was still opened. I exchanged enough money to cover the sound equipment plus a little more. Then something happened right in front of our eyes. There is a whiteboard that has the current exchange rate for buying and selling. That moment the US dollar had an exchange rate of 3370. After the exchange, we were standing next to the whiteboard as someone came and changed the rate to 3360! That may seem like a small amount. But when exchanging thousands of dollars it adds up! God gave us more for our money just at the right time before it was lowered! That is the first time that has ever happened to me.
Godfrey had been dealing with a business in Kampala for over a year now. He was compiling the list of equipment that we would eventually need. This particular shop deals with many churches in the area. They are reputable and fair. They even honored original prices from a year ago, even though their prices have risen. Godfrey said in Uganda it is very important to buy from the right people. Godfrey knew that we were purchasing quality equipment. So many other places are selling imitations that end up breaking after a short time of usage.
As we arrived, the shop owners had reserved a spot right in front of the shop to park. This in itself is not an easy task. They actually lost the original spot to another driver, but another spot miraculous opened up. Godfrey said it is a rare jewel to find a spot in such a crowded place. Having the list ahead of time, they were prepared for us. They had three other items that were needed in order for the equipment to run properly. Because of the generous donation above and beyond the need, we were able to add those items with no problem. There were a couple of things the shop gave us to borrow. We decided not to buy the guitars right now and add that in phase two. But the owners wanted us to have a full sound lacking nothing so they insisted we borrow two guitars! We finalized the list and had everything that we needed and more.
Because I had just arrived I had not exchanged money yet. We walked to one exchange center but they closed the door just as we walked up! We eventually found another one that was still opened. I exchanged enough money to cover the sound equipment plus a little more. Then something happened right in front of our eyes. There is a whiteboard that has the current exchange rate for buying and selling. That moment the US dollar had an exchange rate of 3370. After the exchange, we were standing next to the whiteboard as someone came and changed the rate to 3360! That may seem like a small amount. But when exchanging thousands of dollars it adds up! God gave us more for our money just at the right time before it was lowered! That is the first time that has ever happened to me.
Since in Kampala, we also took care of purchasing the TV for the home. This is a gift
given from all of the children’s sponsors. You can get much better prices in Kampala which is a
big city. The owners of this shop brought over the man from another shop they trusted. We had
already priced TV’s in Jinja. We purchased a 40” flat screen TV for the wall for the same price
as a much smaller TV near home. God is so good.
As they began to pull all the merchandise and get it ready to load in the van, I found myself tucked in a corner on a stool. Close your eyes and imagine this with me. You hear the city sounds of Kampala busy with activity. Horns are “hooting” as Godfrey puts it! Cars are trying to squeeze down the two lane road, or make it three lanes depending on how aggressive they want to be. People are bartering on the streets trying to get those going home from work to stop. They are selling everything from food to shoes to clothes to household items to some things I am not sure what they were. Voices and laughter fill the air. Street evangelists are proclaiming the name of Jesus. Mocker’s voices try to be just as loud. In the midst of all of this, I sat in the shop, in a corner and I am overwhelmed. “Be still and know that I am God,” is going through my mind. These familiar words from Psalm 46:10 became alive to me. I watched as boxes labeled, “Yamaha” or “Pevey” and “Honda” filed past me. Honda was for the generator that is a beautiful red. I don’t think I have ever seen a more beautiful generator! Pevey is for the drum set that is a gorgeous maroon. I was so overwhelmed that I ended up sitting in the van after most of the items were loaded.
When I got in the van, Godfrey had turned on the CD player for me. I had to smile when these words from a song by Building 429 immediately filled the van, “There is no such thing as impossible. And nothing is unreachable when we trust the God of miracles. We know, we know, we know that there’s no such thing as impossible.” “It takes a little time, takes a little time, it takes a little time to see. It takes a little time, takes a little time, it takes a little time to believe.”
We left the shop believing nothing is impossible with Him. We were speechless that we drove away with everything needed for the crusade.
The drive at night is much more peaceful than dodging traffic. So peaceful I dozed off a couple of times. We would not arrived in Jinja until 10:30 pm (yes it means we missed the traditional chicken on a stick!) You will have to wait to Update #5 to hear what came next!
Remaining speechless,
As they began to pull all the merchandise and get it ready to load in the van, I found myself tucked in a corner on a stool. Close your eyes and imagine this with me. You hear the city sounds of Kampala busy with activity. Horns are “hooting” as Godfrey puts it! Cars are trying to squeeze down the two lane road, or make it three lanes depending on how aggressive they want to be. People are bartering on the streets trying to get those going home from work to stop. They are selling everything from food to shoes to clothes to household items to some things I am not sure what they were. Voices and laughter fill the air. Street evangelists are proclaiming the name of Jesus. Mocker’s voices try to be just as loud. In the midst of all of this, I sat in the shop, in a corner and I am overwhelmed. “Be still and know that I am God,” is going through my mind. These familiar words from Psalm 46:10 became alive to me. I watched as boxes labeled, “Yamaha” or “Pevey” and “Honda” filed past me. Honda was for the generator that is a beautiful red. I don’t think I have ever seen a more beautiful generator! Pevey is for the drum set that is a gorgeous maroon. I was so overwhelmed that I ended up sitting in the van after most of the items were loaded.
When I got in the van, Godfrey had turned on the CD player for me. I had to smile when these words from a song by Building 429 immediately filled the van, “There is no such thing as impossible. And nothing is unreachable when we trust the God of miracles. We know, we know, we know that there’s no such thing as impossible.” “It takes a little time, takes a little time, it takes a little time to see. It takes a little time, takes a little time, it takes a little time to believe.”
We left the shop believing nothing is impossible with Him. We were speechless that we drove away with everything needed for the crusade.
The drive at night is much more peaceful than dodging traffic. So peaceful I dozed off a couple of times. We would not arrived in Jinja until 10:30 pm (yes it means we missed the traditional chicken on a stick!) You will have to wait to Update #5 to hear what came next!
Remaining speechless,
mama eydie kisakye
Wednesday, August 31, 2016
Chapter 22 - Update #3 - September 4, 2016
The days have been so full, I am waking up not realizing I had gone to sleep!
I have regularly returned to my room between 11 pm and midnight. After settling in from very full days, I pull out my computer with every intention of writing an update. I make the mistake of trying to write from the comfort of the bed with my head propped up against the pillow!
Then trying to log onto the internet with the slow connection creates more of a challenge! The internet & I relate to one another so well ... we both are functioning slower at the end of the day! I close my eyes imagining all that God has done for us throughout the day while waiting for the internet to connect. It is so unexplainable that while my eyes are closed, I must be transitioning into a dream state and suddenly I am in my own movie! When I come to the end of those events, suddenly it is morning! I wake up wanting more. Turns out this is the only thing that is allowing me to actually get a little sleep at night! The good news is the credits are not yet rolling! There is much more to the story!
Even though it seems like ages ago that I left for Uganda, I have more to the story of how God miraculously provided BEFORE I left American soil.
In addition to the generous gift given for sound equipment, there were others who also gave above and beyond. We had another sizable donation made towards whatever else is needed for the ministry by an anonymous donor. Two of our other regular supporters sent above and beyond to bless the children while I am here. I spoke briefly at my church before leaving on this trip. They generously gave to help with my airline ticket & accommodations. One of the members of the praise band wanted to give me his personal amplifier to help with our sound system needs. His heart was golden, but I just couldn’t take it with me without paying too much as excess luggage.
I also had sent word out to those who are sponsoring our children to consider giving a monetary gift so we could replace the TV that was stolen four months ago. We were able to collect enough to purchase a 40” TV that would be mounted on the wall. This is a valuable
I have regularly returned to my room between 11 pm and midnight. After settling in from very full days, I pull out my computer with every intention of writing an update. I make the mistake of trying to write from the comfort of the bed with my head propped up against the pillow!
Then trying to log onto the internet with the slow connection creates more of a challenge! The internet & I relate to one another so well ... we both are functioning slower at the end of the day! I close my eyes imagining all that God has done for us throughout the day while waiting for the internet to connect. It is so unexplainable that while my eyes are closed, I must be transitioning into a dream state and suddenly I am in my own movie! When I come to the end of those events, suddenly it is morning! I wake up wanting more. Turns out this is the only thing that is allowing me to actually get a little sleep at night! The good news is the credits are not yet rolling! There is much more to the story!
Even though it seems like ages ago that I left for Uganda, I have more to the story of how God miraculously provided BEFORE I left American soil.
In addition to the generous gift given for sound equipment, there were others who also gave above and beyond. We had another sizable donation made towards whatever else is needed for the ministry by an anonymous donor. Two of our other regular supporters sent above and beyond to bless the children while I am here. I spoke briefly at my church before leaving on this trip. They generously gave to help with my airline ticket & accommodations. One of the members of the praise band wanted to give me his personal amplifier to help with our sound system needs. His heart was golden, but I just couldn’t take it with me without paying too much as excess luggage.
I also had sent word out to those who are sponsoring our children to consider giving a monetary gift so we could replace the TV that was stolen four months ago. We were able to collect enough to purchase a 40” TV that would be mounted on the wall. This is a valuable
tool for the home used with great discretion by Godfrey. The children have grown to LOVE
the time we have together to watch Christian movies such as “War Room.” It challenges their
hearts and motivates them to want to deepen their own walk with the Lord. Last
timewatching“WarRoom”leftapermanentmarkontheirgrowingspirituallives. Special
thanks to the sponsors who gave towards this need. The TV was a gift presented to the family by
all of the Raining Hope sponsors. It means more than you can possibly imagine.
My passport also seemed to take it own journey before I left. If only passports could talk I
could find out where it had been for a week! I sent my passport to the Ugandan Embassy in
Washington D.C. over a week and a half before leaving for Maryland. I had already submitted
the application to the Embassy online for the required Visa almost 2 weeks before. Because I was
visiting my family in the San Francisco Bay Area that week, I mailed it from there overnight
express. It was guaranteed to arrive the next day...which is why you pay $22.95! The other
requirement is to purchase the return trip for the passport and include it in the envelope. So a
total of $45.90 later, I was expecting the passport back well in advance of leaving for Maryland.
I have done it this way for the past 10 years and never had a problem. Would’t you know the one
time that I misplaced the tracking receipt is when the passport seemed to have gone off the
radar. The closer it got to the day of departure, the more concerned I became. To top it all off,
since I mailed it from a post office in the Bay Area, I could ’t easily go and hunt down the
tracking receipt in person. Eventually, the post office found the number but it only confirmed
that the actual envelope was missing in action. It showed that it had not yet arrived after five
days! Danny Gokey has a song called, “Tell Your Heart to Beat Again.” Believe me...the
context of that song meant something totally different to me at that moment!
I made calls to the Embassy wanting to know if they received it. I never talked with anyone directly. Leaving voice messages was all I could do. “Where in the World is Eydie’s Passport?” was becoming the theme phrase of that week. Since I am physically in Uganda, you already know the end of the story! Eventually and mysteriously the passport made it’s way into the prepaid envelope. The day before I left for Maryland I had the passport in hand. Whew! I imagine if the passport could talk it would say, “What happens on the journey in the envelope stays in the envelope!” My journey trying to track it down was quite enough for me! (P.S. Yes... I did get $22.95 back because of their overnight guarantee!)
I made calls to the Embassy wanting to know if they received it. I never talked with anyone directly. Leaving voice messages was all I could do. “Where in the World is Eydie’s Passport?” was becoming the theme phrase of that week. Since I am physically in Uganda, you already know the end of the story! Eventually and mysteriously the passport made it’s way into the prepaid envelope. The day before I left for Maryland I had the passport in hand. Whew! I imagine if the passport could talk it would say, “What happens on the journey in the envelope stays in the envelope!” My journey trying to track it down was quite enough for me! (P.S. Yes... I did get $22.95 back because of their overnight guarantee!)
At the last minute while packing, I had to give in and take a third bag from LAX to Washington D.C. I was trying to avoid this because I have to pay for all checked baggage for the domestic flight. I still had too much to bring, more in weight than volume. I discovered the third bag domestically was only $75 (compared to $155 for international). Knowing that the contents were important to include I packed the third bag.
I regularly take a shuttle now from my home to LAX. This particular shuttle driver was
new to me. I spent the first part of the drive answering the normal questions as to what I do and
where I am going. He heard all about the children of Raining Hope and how God is blessing
our work. God put me in this van with the exact driver He desired to begin my incredible
journey. Normally you have to pay a small fee if you have oversized bags or anything over two
pieces of luggage. There were only two of us that day in the van so he told me not to worry. But
when he dropped me off at the terminal, I tried to give him an extra tip. He actually refused the
tip and asked me to buy a book or something for one of the children. I was speechless at this
small but kind gesture.
When I went inside to check in, I had already paid online for the first two bags. I was fully prepared to pay for the third bag at the counter. When I told the agent the story, she ended up not charging me for the extra bag! Speechless.
I found my way to the gate and greeted one of the agents that I have gotten to know over the past three years since flying back and forth to Maryland to visit Carol. I had not seen her in awhile. This kind woman upgraded my seat to an exit row ... the now infamous seat 17C!
Then in that exit row, is where I met my new friend seated in 17A. That conversation was a precious gift to me & Raining Hope to launch Chapter 22. This person as well was suppose to sit in another row. He ended up upgrading which changed his seat assignment. It was definitely a divine appointment!
Speechless.
These updates seem to be chasing the story! Up until now it has been what has led to getting me here! The next update has at least caught up to us in Uganda! I have four days of stories that will be full & rich of what God is doing in my home in Africa, in the beautiful country of Uganda, in a town called Jinja in a home called Raining Hope!
Remaining speechless,
mama eydie kisakye
When I went inside to check in, I had already paid online for the first two bags. I was fully prepared to pay for the third bag at the counter. When I told the agent the story, she ended up not charging me for the extra bag! Speechless.
I found my way to the gate and greeted one of the agents that I have gotten to know over the past three years since flying back and forth to Maryland to visit Carol. I had not seen her in awhile. This kind woman upgraded my seat to an exit row ... the now infamous seat 17C!
Then in that exit row, is where I met my new friend seated in 17A. That conversation was a precious gift to me & Raining Hope to launch Chapter 22. This person as well was suppose to sit in another row. He ended up upgrading which changed his seat assignment. It was definitely a divine appointment!
Speechless.
These updates seem to be chasing the story! Up until now it has been what has led to getting me here! The next update has at least caught up to us in Uganda! I have four days of stories that will be full & rich of what God is doing in my home in Africa, in the beautiful country of Uganda, in a town called Jinja in a home called Raining Hope!
Remaining speechless,
mama eydie kisakye
Chapter 22 - Update #2 - September 1, 2016
Raining Hope Service Project
August 24-September 12, 2016
I have made it safely to my home in Uganda! It took roughly 24 hours from the time Carol dropped me off at Dulles International Airport in Washington DC to my setting foot on Ugandan soil! I hope your last 24 hours on this journey with me was as smooth as my travel! I had such success in seat 17C on Alaska Airlines, I had wished I could occupy the same seat on Emirates! The only way to pull that off would have been to sit in business class which was a little bit (actually ALOT) out of reach! I settled into seat 47H from Dulles to Dubai and 45A from Dubai to Entebbe. Even though the seats next to me were occupied, you were still on my mind as my traveling companions!
I write from the comfort of my Ugandan home at the Paradise Hotel in room 35. This hotel has been my home away from home for the past ten years. But I also have a very specific room that I stay in each time. Only twice have I been in another room. The very first trip I was in a room near one of our other team members. On that trip I have said my life was turned “right side up,” not “upside down!” I loved that little room because it was a special part of what would forever change my life.
My second journey here I was traveling alone. So upon arrival it seemed only natural to ask about staying in the same room. The hotel staff wasn’t convinced that was the best room for me! I reluctantly followed as the person brought me to various rooms to give me other choices. I was sure at the end of the tour I was going to confidently say I would really like my old room. But then I walked into Room 35. Something happened that day as I was drawn in. I sensed a peace that truly passes all understanding. This room has a balcony that “had” a view of the Nile River. It also “overlooked” a little grassy area where the staff hang the daily laundry. It was breathtaking. They wanted me to see for myself that there was something better waiting if I would just trust them!
“Had” a view and “overlooked” a little grassy areas are past tense because it has now been 10 years. I no longer have a view of the Nile River because the tree that was planted just below my room has grown so big and tall it is the only thing that I see! The neighbor next door also added onto his property and a two story building blocks the view that direction. I can barely see the grass or even the roof next door! The original view drew me in but something much bigger kept me asking to return to the same room. Every time I am here in Room 35, God meets me in a very specific way. I can’t explain the significant quiet times I have had in the early morning hours on my balcony. I have prayed, signed music, cried and rejoiced. His Presence and love powerfully fill the room. The only other time I have been in a different room was because they were doing renovations and Room 35 was not available! Just as seat 17C became important to start Chapter 22, it is equally important for you to know the significance of room 35! So the welcome mat is out and you have entered into my Ugandan home where I graciously offer you a cup of coffee or Ugandan tea!
August 24-September 12, 2016
I have made it safely to my home in Uganda! It took roughly 24 hours from the time Carol dropped me off at Dulles International Airport in Washington DC to my setting foot on Ugandan soil! I hope your last 24 hours on this journey with me was as smooth as my travel! I had such success in seat 17C on Alaska Airlines, I had wished I could occupy the same seat on Emirates! The only way to pull that off would have been to sit in business class which was a little bit (actually ALOT) out of reach! I settled into seat 47H from Dulles to Dubai and 45A from Dubai to Entebbe. Even though the seats next to me were occupied, you were still on my mind as my traveling companions!
I write from the comfort of my Ugandan home at the Paradise Hotel in room 35. This hotel has been my home away from home for the past ten years. But I also have a very specific room that I stay in each time. Only twice have I been in another room. The very first trip I was in a room near one of our other team members. On that trip I have said my life was turned “right side up,” not “upside down!” I loved that little room because it was a special part of what would forever change my life.
My second journey here I was traveling alone. So upon arrival it seemed only natural to ask about staying in the same room. The hotel staff wasn’t convinced that was the best room for me! I reluctantly followed as the person brought me to various rooms to give me other choices. I was sure at the end of the tour I was going to confidently say I would really like my old room. But then I walked into Room 35. Something happened that day as I was drawn in. I sensed a peace that truly passes all understanding. This room has a balcony that “had” a view of the Nile River. It also “overlooked” a little grassy area where the staff hang the daily laundry. It was breathtaking. They wanted me to see for myself that there was something better waiting if I would just trust them!
“Had” a view and “overlooked” a little grassy areas are past tense because it has now been 10 years. I no longer have a view of the Nile River because the tree that was planted just below my room has grown so big and tall it is the only thing that I see! The neighbor next door also added onto his property and a two story building blocks the view that direction. I can barely see the grass or even the roof next door! The original view drew me in but something much bigger kept me asking to return to the same room. Every time I am here in Room 35, God meets me in a very specific way. I can’t explain the significant quiet times I have had in the early morning hours on my balcony. I have prayed, signed music, cried and rejoiced. His Presence and love powerfully fill the room. The only other time I have been in a different room was because they were doing renovations and Room 35 was not available! Just as seat 17C became important to start Chapter 22, it is equally important for you to know the significance of room 35! So the welcome mat is out and you have entered into my Ugandan home where I graciously offer you a cup of coffee or Ugandan tea!
I write as a storyteller.
I only repeat that phrase not because this update is long, but because of my new luggage tag I noticed AFTER I arrived here. When I turned it over it read, “Travel leaves you speechless - then turns you into a storyteller!” I smiled and giggled as if God carved out that tag for me while we were traveling in air!
I have a story to tell you.
The last 24 hours I seem to have enough material to write a whole book! But first I need to share what I previewed in update #1 about God’s provision and His love. Some of you have graciously sent me encouraging words after the first update. You have said you are waiting with great anticipation with your cup of coffee in hand wanting more! For a storyteller you can’t ask for anything more!
On Thursday, August 18th a series of events were put into motion. First, I confess I have been extremely frustrated with my Yahoo mail! The latest problem is Yahoo randomly removes names (better than saying people!) from my mailing list designations. There is no rhyme nor reason to it. Even Carol & Heather who are a part of the Raining Hope staff have been mysteriously “undesignated!” I don’t know it has happened unless one of you tells me. Then again, how are you to know? On August 18th, the frustration level was high when I discovered Yahoo struck again and Heather became another victim of my now infamous mailing list hijacking! As we sat and watched TV, I manually went into my Raining Hope mailing list and discovered at least 10-15 precious supporters who were no longer receiving the monthly newsletters. I crafted a letter of apology and re-sent the current August newsletter to the unsuspecting victims! Little did I know the significance of how this frustration would lead to good.
I only repeat that phrase not because this update is long, but because of my new luggage tag I noticed AFTER I arrived here. When I turned it over it read, “Travel leaves you speechless - then turns you into a storyteller!” I smiled and giggled as if God carved out that tag for me while we were traveling in air!
I have a story to tell you.
The last 24 hours I seem to have enough material to write a whole book! But first I need to share what I previewed in update #1 about God’s provision and His love. Some of you have graciously sent me encouraging words after the first update. You have said you are waiting with great anticipation with your cup of coffee in hand wanting more! For a storyteller you can’t ask for anything more!
On Thursday, August 18th a series of events were put into motion. First, I confess I have been extremely frustrated with my Yahoo mail! The latest problem is Yahoo randomly removes names (better than saying people!) from my mailing list designations. There is no rhyme nor reason to it. Even Carol & Heather who are a part of the Raining Hope staff have been mysteriously “undesignated!” I don’t know it has happened unless one of you tells me. Then again, how are you to know? On August 18th, the frustration level was high when I discovered Yahoo struck again and Heather became another victim of my now infamous mailing list hijacking! As we sat and watched TV, I manually went into my Raining Hope mailing list and discovered at least 10-15 precious supporters who were no longer receiving the monthly newsletters. I crafted a letter of apology and re-sent the current August newsletter to the unsuspecting victims! Little did I know the significance of how this frustration would lead to good.
While I was clicking away on the computer trying to fix this problem, another
story was brewing. Godfrey sent me an email just after I had finished sending the last letter
out for the night. He said they were becoming concerned about the upcoming crusade and
conference. One of the priorities I had listed in the August newsletter was for the much
needed sound equipment. We have been praying about this need for over a year now. We
received funding to purchase some equipment for the January 2016 conference held at the home.
It was just enough and the conference was a success. But I did not fully understand the scope of
this upcoming crusade. Godfrey’s email to me was to pose the question, “should we consider
postponing the crusade until December this year?”
What?
It was one of those, “Can you hear me now?” moments. Did I hear that correctly?
I quickly responded. My tickets were bought and could not be refunded without penalty. I had just sent out the newsletter announcing details of the crusade. I explained we couldn’t postpone. There were no other options but to fully TRUST IN GOD. I asked the children to keep rehearing and planning by FAITH. I figured if Jesus could preach to thousands with no sound system, we surely could get by with what we had. I had no idea where the money was going to come from. The amount needed was approximately $5300. We began to pray.
Then came Friday. Remember my Yahoo frustration? I began to watch as God was going to use it for good. One of the addresses that I had manually fixed paved the way for us to experience the miraculous. The recipient of the newsletter had been praying. Because she requested to remain anonymous, I can’t give you all the details. But the newsletter was an answer to her prayers and confirmation of where they wanted to help. After a couple of precious phone calls, she informed me that they wanted to help fund the entire amount needed to purchase everything needed for the crusade! This truly left me speechless. By the end of the weekend, I had received a check for over and above the specified amount. This allowed us to buy a few items that were a part of Phase 2 of our media needs.
When I called Godfrey and the children to let them know that God answered our prayers... they shouted for joy and praised God! However, it became quiet very quickly. Godfrey said,
What?
It was one of those, “Can you hear me now?” moments. Did I hear that correctly?
I quickly responded. My tickets were bought and could not be refunded without penalty. I had just sent out the newsletter announcing details of the crusade. I explained we couldn’t postpone. There were no other options but to fully TRUST IN GOD. I asked the children to keep rehearing and planning by FAITH. I figured if Jesus could preach to thousands with no sound system, we surely could get by with what we had. I had no idea where the money was going to come from. The amount needed was approximately $5300. We began to pray.
Then came Friday. Remember my Yahoo frustration? I began to watch as God was going to use it for good. One of the addresses that I had manually fixed paved the way for us to experience the miraculous. The recipient of the newsletter had been praying. Because she requested to remain anonymous, I can’t give you all the details. But the newsletter was an answer to her prayers and confirmation of where they wanted to help. After a couple of precious phone calls, she informed me that they wanted to help fund the entire amount needed to purchase everything needed for the crusade! This truly left me speechless. By the end of the weekend, I had received a check for over and above the specified amount. This allowed us to buy a few items that were a part of Phase 2 of our media needs.
When I called Godfrey and the children to let them know that God answered our prayers... they shouted for joy and praised God! However, it became quiet very quickly. Godfrey said,
“Henry wants to talk to you.” I waited. The next voice was not Henry’s but Godfrey’s. He said,
“The children are speechless. They are requesting a break.”
Again, not sure what that meant, Godfrey who was speechless himself said, “They are overcome with emotion and they need a few minutes to recover.” They were so amazed at how God answered their prayers they truly were left SPEECHLESS.
Heading into this crusade and conference with this miraculous testimony has left them with a newfound faith and trust in God alone. Raining Hope has always wanted to be explained by the miraculous.
There is no other explanation. This is truly a miracle.
The reason they were concerned about the sound system is because the crusade is not happening at the house. It will be in the local marketplace in our community. With the competing noise of everyday life in a busy Ugandan market, the need for a loud system was crucial.
Please join us in prayer as we prepare to minister to the lost right here in our backyard.
Raining Hope Ministries Uganda / Christ in You - The Hope of Glory
This will be a time to reach the lost for Christ. It will also encourage believers
with who they are in Christ to reflect His glory as His witnesses.
September 5-7, 2016 - Open Air Evangelism - 4:00 pm-7:00 pm (10 hours behind - 6:00
am-9:00 am PST)
Main Speaker: Pastor Godfrey
Special Music: Raining Hope Ministries / Mama Eydie Kisakye (signing music)
Testimonies by some of our children
September 8-10, 2016 - Follow-Up Conference - 4:00 pm-7:00 pm
Main Speaker: Pastor Godfrey & Mama Eydie Kisakye
Pray for an outpouring of the Holy Spirit. Pray for all involved as Raining Hope steps out
to be a Beacon of Hope to the world!
Take time to soak it all in! More coming soon about the actual purchase of the sound
equipment & the joy that is being proclaimed from these walls! Can you hear it now? Listen...they are shouting it from the rooftops!
Speechless,
mama eydie kisakye
“The children are speechless. They are requesting a break.”
Again, not sure what that meant, Godfrey who was speechless himself said, “They are overcome with emotion and they need a few minutes to recover.” They were so amazed at how God answered their prayers they truly were left SPEECHLESS.
Heading into this crusade and conference with this miraculous testimony has left them with a newfound faith and trust in God alone. Raining Hope has always wanted to be explained by the miraculous.
There is no other explanation. This is truly a miracle.
The reason they were concerned about the sound system is because the crusade is not happening at the house. It will be in the local marketplace in our community. With the competing noise of everyday life in a busy Ugandan market, the need for a loud system was crucial.
Please join us in prayer as we prepare to minister to the lost right here in our backyard.
Raining Hope Ministries Uganda / Christ in You - The Hope of Glory
This will be a time to reach the lost for Christ. It will also encourage believers
with who they are in Christ to reflect His glory as His witnesses.
September 5-7, 2016 - Open Air Evangelism - 4:00 pm-7:00 pm (10 hours behind - 6:00
am-9:00 am PST)
Main Speaker: Pastor Godfrey
Special Music: Raining Hope Ministries / Mama Eydie Kisakye (signing music)
Testimonies by some of our children
September 8-10, 2016 - Follow-Up Conference - 4:00 pm-7:00 pm
Main Speaker: Pastor Godfrey & Mama Eydie Kisakye
Pray for an outpouring of the Holy Spirit. Pray for all involved as Raining Hope steps out
to be a Beacon of Hope to the world!
Take time to soak it all in! More coming soon about the actual purchase of the sound
equipment & the joy that is being proclaimed from these walls! Can you hear it now? Listen...they are shouting it from the rooftops!
Speechless,
mama eydie kisakye
Chapter 22 - Update #1 - August 24, 2016
Raining Hope Service Project
August 24-September 12, 2016
I am writing this first update from seat 17C on my Alaska Airlines flight. Turns out that flying first to Maryland for a week posed some interesting challenges! On top of that, God did one miraculous thing after another this past week. Not only did I have a hard time keeping up, I had an even more difficult time finding the time to write an update!
For those of you who are new to my updates, I want to get you ready for your part in this journey! My first trip to Uganda was a mission’s trip at the end of 2006. This year marks my 10th year of service to a place I consider home. Hard to believe that I am now on my 22nd trip to Uganda. The chapter coincides with the number of the trip. Each trip is a chapter of the larger story of my call to Africa.
I write as a storyteller. You are on this journey with me. So many of you are supporting us through your prayers and your giving.. I may be the one going, but your hearts are what I share with the children. I want you to feel what I feel and see what I see. The only way to do that is by the words I write. I invite you into my story. I actually have an empty seat next to me on this plane. I imagine you sitting with me in 17B. Just as I told the story of Raining Hope and the children to my new friend in 17A, I want you to be able to experience everything along with me.
Updates are long as a story would be. I have tried to shorten them by doing bullet points but then it would be nothing more than a table of contents. I have tried highlighting key thoughts so like a speed reader, you could pick up on just the main points. But then the experiences were getting lost in the translation. I even tried writing shorter updates because a few said they were too long. It was similar to having a bad connection on the phone, only hearing every other word with the familiar, “Can you hear me now?” This approach did not allow the heartbeat of the mission to be communicated clearly.
So I have gone back to doing what I know He has required of me. You know ahead of time that you are going to be reading a chapter in a story. Grab a cup of coffee or tea and find a nice, comfy chair to settle into. Prepare to journey with me into a story of God’s love for His children in a place called Raining Hope in a town called Jinja in Uganda on the continent of Africa.
Because so much happens in one day, at times I will divide it into two emails. For example, the past few days have left us utterly speechless as to all that God is doing. There is so much to share that I will be telling that part of the story in update #2! (Preview - provisions for the sound equipment & more!) Believe me, I won’t be speechless in my email! Words will come spilling out on the page. I want you to be right there with me as you read! Feel free to take breaks to absorb the excitement! I will be posting the same updates on our blog but will add photos. You can find us at www.raininghopeuganda.blogspot.com . Once in Uganda, I will try to send updates every few days depending on the reliability of the internet connection.
I have been in Maryland all week preparing for this exciting journey. The stopover here was not only to visit Carol, Diane, Teri and the puppies but it was specifically to attend a conference at Carol’s church. A dear friend, Pastor Charles, has a non-profit organization that ministers mainly in Haiti and Nigeria. He has been highly instrumental in his wisdom and support of the work I am doing. His conference was a three-day launch for his newly established ministry. It was an inspiring three days for me. I came as a support for Pastor Charles knowing that God had a word for me. God used it in an important way to prepare my heart for our crusade and conference. I left the third session on Saturday in compete awe. Speechless. Simply speechless.
The next couple of days are filled with last minute preparations. I have included my travel schedule for you to journey with me. As I fly on Emirates, I will imagine you sitting with me regardless if there is an open seat!
So get ready for a grand adventure! Chapter 22 officially has been opened!
Kale, mama eydie kisakye
Itinerary for Eydie - Chapter 22 - August 24-September 17, 2016
Wednesday, 24 August 2016
Alaska Airlines Flight 6
Departs LAX - 12:45 pm Arrives Washington DC Reagan - 8:57 pm
Wednesday, 31 August 2016
Emirates EK 232
Departs Washington DC Dulles: 10:55 am
Arrives Dubai: 8:05 am (September 1)
Thursday, 01 September 2016
Emirates EK 729
Departs Dubai: 9:20 am
Arrives Entebbe, Uganda 1:50 pm
Monday, 12 September 2016
Emirates EK 730
Departs Entebbe, Uganda 3:50 pm
Arrives Dubai 10:35 pm
Tuesday, 13 September 2016
Emirates EK 231
Departs Dubai 2:20 am
Arrives Washington DC Dulles 8:40 am
Departs 17 September 2016
Alaska Flight 5
Departs Washington DC Reagan 9:15 am
Arrives LAX 11:52 am
Sunday, August 28, 2016
Chapter 21 - Update #12 - February 26, 2016
Note: I was preparing to post Chapter 22 and realized that update #12 was sent out by newsletter but not posted. Here is that post from the January 2016 trip!
Before I give the last update on my traveling home on January 25th, I want to update you on the Presidential elections.
First, thank you for joining us in prayer.
President Museveni was reelected with 60.75% of the vote over his closest opponent, Besigye who received 35.37% of the vote. Social media was shut down to avoid false rumors from being spread during the elections. Godfrey kept in contact with me when he could get through. We are praising God that the children all remained safe during the process.
We continue to ask for your prayers. There is still some concern what the opposition will do in light of the results. They still have mayoral elections next week. The tension that exists will remain until the inauguration three months from now. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me. A lot of what is on social media is false. I will try and keep you up-to-date as I hear directly from Godfrey. The main truth is the children are fine and are excited about starting school.
We were able to send some money so the children could start school this week. Please pray with us as we still need to raise the balance for the first term. Thank you for your prayers and your support. Godfrey has expressed his thanks for you joining us in prayer during this critical time for their nation.
To finish Chapter 21, Monday, January 25, 2016 was a special day. I spent the morning trying to finish last minute notes. I missed breakfast and rushed down to the morning fellowship at the hotel. I was to share one more time in the devotions before leaving for the airport. I was so late I thought I missed the worship and would just lead the devotion. To my surprise, no one was in the hut! I looked around wondering if I made a mistake with the time. Normally by now at least one person is there preparing the space.
I decided to just go ahead and worship alone. I pulled out my music and began to sign to a song. I had a private moment with the Lord getting ready to again leave my special home at the edge of the Nile until the next time. It was getting close to 9 am which is when we normally finish the devotions. As I turned to leave, Esther and another one came apologizing for their lateness. They wanted to go ahead with the devotions even with what I thought was just a couple of us. My only issue was that Godfrey would soon come to pick me up for the journey to the airport.
But the ones who were there started preparing. The chairs were brought out and put into place. Instead of just going into the devotion, we still had a time of worship to prepare our hearts. I love that. We didn’t skip worship. At that moment, I relaxed and just asked the Lord to prepare the way to the airport. I knew this time was important for my hotel family. So I trusted that all would go well even though we would leave later than expected. As we worship, more people came. By time we got to the devotions there were at least 15-20 people there which is more than normal. In the time of devotion it was a summary of this journey and a reminder to continue seeking Him at the river...allowing our roots to go down deep. It was an encouraging time to reflect on His Word together.
When we were done, Robert Otile, General Manager for the hotel and dear friend got up to speak. This is the first time that has happened. I thought he was just going to lead in a time of prayer for my flight home. But what came next took me by complete surprise. He began talking about how we are all family. In all honesty, I don’t remember all that he said. What I do remember was Robert sharing that when I go home he knows I share the story of what God is doing in Uganda. But they wanted to have a way to tell all of you from their hearts the story of how God is using me.
On behalf of the Chairman of the Board which is his father, Mr. Francis Otile, they presented me with a beautiful framed certificate of recognition from the Paradise Hotel. This was a first. When I post photos at a later time you will see the words they used. As long as my updates are, this I have no words for what truly happened.
This is why they were late. They were gathering up people to come to make this presentation. It was an honor and a complete surprise. It is something that I will forever cherish from my family at Paradise Hotel.
Godfrey was there as well which meant the world to me. It became very hard for me to leave my family at the hotel on this journey. The one thing that helped was knowing I was going to stop by the house to see the children on the way to the airport!
We had less time at the house but it turned out to be just enough time. We hugged and prayed and just loved on one another!! It is always hard to leave but we do it in a way that brings honor to the Lord. God did so much on this journey that all we could do was stand back and be thankful!
Godfrey and I made the long journey to the airport. No time for chicken on a stick because we used the additional time at the hotel! The hotel actually packed breakfast for the both of us since I had missed it.
We had great conversations on the three hour journey! Godfrey has been instrumental in helping me with the new policies regarding sponsorship, letter writing and gift giving. All that will be announced soon as we launch our new sponsorship program! Exciting things are coming! Stay tuned!
We made it to the airport with time to spare. God definitely answered prayer. Difficult to leave but always blessed to know that my “Ugandan family” is here & God is using them to glorify His name. I am so thankful that God’s call on my life included this little spot on the face of this big world.
Thank you all for journeying with me on my 21st trip to Uganda. Because of the instability of the elections, going to Uganda for the next few months is not wise. I will not be taking teams this year which I will talk about in upcoming newsletters. I may be returning by myself sometime this summer when we are given the ok that it is safe.
You can continue to pray for the children and their safety. We are excited about this new phase we are entering with some of our children entering post-secondary schools. God is continuing to bless and enlarge territories! It is exciting to be a part of what God is doing. YOU are all a part of that. Thank you for taking the time to read. Thanks to those who have written back a word of encouragement.
On behalf of Godfrey and the family at Raining Hope, we all say a big THANK YOU for loving us.
Thanks for reading Chapter 21! I know they were long, that is why I tried to BOLD key points in case you just wanted to skim through. Hope that helped. But long or short...all I want to do is allow you to participate in the miraculous things that I am witnessing. I pray that the updates allow you to feel as if you are walking right alongside me.
First, thank you for joining us in prayer.
President Museveni was reelected with 60.75% of the vote over his closest opponent, Besigye who received 35.37% of the vote. Social media was shut down to avoid false rumors from being spread during the elections. Godfrey kept in contact with me when he could get through. We are praising God that the children all remained safe during the process.
We continue to ask for your prayers. There is still some concern what the opposition will do in light of the results. They still have mayoral elections next week. The tension that exists will remain until the inauguration three months from now. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me. A lot of what is on social media is false. I will try and keep you up-to-date as I hear directly from Godfrey. The main truth is the children are fine and are excited about starting school.
We were able to send some money so the children could start school this week. Please pray with us as we still need to raise the balance for the first term. Thank you for your prayers and your support. Godfrey has expressed his thanks for you joining us in prayer during this critical time for their nation.
To finish Chapter 21, Monday, January 25, 2016 was a special day. I spent the morning trying to finish last minute notes. I missed breakfast and rushed down to the morning fellowship at the hotel. I was to share one more time in the devotions before leaving for the airport. I was so late I thought I missed the worship and would just lead the devotion. To my surprise, no one was in the hut! I looked around wondering if I made a mistake with the time. Normally by now at least one person is there preparing the space.
I decided to just go ahead and worship alone. I pulled out my music and began to sign to a song. I had a private moment with the Lord getting ready to again leave my special home at the edge of the Nile until the next time. It was getting close to 9 am which is when we normally finish the devotions. As I turned to leave, Esther and another one came apologizing for their lateness. They wanted to go ahead with the devotions even with what I thought was just a couple of us. My only issue was that Godfrey would soon come to pick me up for the journey to the airport.
But the ones who were there started preparing. The chairs were brought out and put into place. Instead of just going into the devotion, we still had a time of worship to prepare our hearts. I love that. We didn’t skip worship. At that moment, I relaxed and just asked the Lord to prepare the way to the airport. I knew this time was important for my hotel family. So I trusted that all would go well even though we would leave later than expected. As we worship, more people came. By time we got to the devotions there were at least 15-20 people there which is more than normal. In the time of devotion it was a summary of this journey and a reminder to continue seeking Him at the river...allowing our roots to go down deep. It was an encouraging time to reflect on His Word together.
When we were done, Robert Otile, General Manager for the hotel and dear friend got up to speak. This is the first time that has happened. I thought he was just going to lead in a time of prayer for my flight home. But what came next took me by complete surprise. He began talking about how we are all family. In all honesty, I don’t remember all that he said. What I do remember was Robert sharing that when I go home he knows I share the story of what God is doing in Uganda. But they wanted to have a way to tell all of you from their hearts the story of how God is using me.
On behalf of the Chairman of the Board which is his father, Mr. Francis Otile, they presented me with a beautiful framed certificate of recognition from the Paradise Hotel. This was a first. When I post photos at a later time you will see the words they used. As long as my updates are, this I have no words for what truly happened.
This is why they were late. They were gathering up people to come to make this presentation. It was an honor and a complete surprise. It is something that I will forever cherish from my family at Paradise Hotel.
Godfrey was there as well which meant the world to me. It became very hard for me to leave my family at the hotel on this journey. The one thing that helped was knowing I was going to stop by the house to see the children on the way to the airport!
We had less time at the house but it turned out to be just enough time. We hugged and prayed and just loved on one another!! It is always hard to leave but we do it in a way that brings honor to the Lord. God did so much on this journey that all we could do was stand back and be thankful!
Godfrey and I made the long journey to the airport. No time for chicken on a stick because we used the additional time at the hotel! The hotel actually packed breakfast for the both of us since I had missed it.
We had great conversations on the three hour journey! Godfrey has been instrumental in helping me with the new policies regarding sponsorship, letter writing and gift giving. All that will be announced soon as we launch our new sponsorship program! Exciting things are coming! Stay tuned!
We made it to the airport with time to spare. God definitely answered prayer. Difficult to leave but always blessed to know that my “Ugandan family” is here & God is using them to glorify His name. I am so thankful that God’s call on my life included this little spot on the face of this big world.
Thank you all for journeying with me on my 21st trip to Uganda. Because of the instability of the elections, going to Uganda for the next few months is not wise. I will not be taking teams this year which I will talk about in upcoming newsletters. I may be returning by myself sometime this summer when we are given the ok that it is safe.
You can continue to pray for the children and their safety. We are excited about this new phase we are entering with some of our children entering post-secondary schools. God is continuing to bless and enlarge territories! It is exciting to be a part of what God is doing. YOU are all a part of that. Thank you for taking the time to read. Thanks to those who have written back a word of encouragement.
On behalf of Godfrey and the family at Raining Hope, we all say a big THANK YOU for loving us.
Thanks for reading Chapter 21! I know they were long, that is why I tried to BOLD key points in case you just wanted to skim through. Hope that helped. But long or short...all I want to do is allow you to participate in the miraculous things that I am witnessing. I pray that the updates allow you to feel as if you are walking right alongside me.
Love you all,
mama eydie kisakye
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
