This morning we were awoken by a beautiful sunrise where the fog covered the ground and the sun peaked over the mountains. God’s masterpiece was declaring His glory. Many of us went outside to admire it. I anticipate more and more beauty to grace our eyes as the days go by here in Kenya.
Following the sunrise came a yummy breakfast and a journey to the grocery store. There we stacked up on supplies like water, extra toiletries, PB&J material, and snacks of course! A special moment was being able to see everyone share what they had bought.
Some purchased items from the Naivas Superstore.
Soon after the store we went to the equator where Dr. Bradley and his children were warmly welcomed. The shop owners sang for us all at the beginning and end of our time. After our group picture, they called us over to their shops and we bargained with them for a good price on what they had to offer. I definitely spent more than I should have, but I got a lot of cool things so it was worth it.
The group at the equator! It was very majestic.
After a mini concert for the shop owners we went across the street for lunch. With the supplies we had gotten from the store we ate our peanut butter and jelly sandwiches. During our lunch time we found our way into a very acoustic room. There Baylor’s choir sang Professor Wright’s arrangement of “He’s Got The Whole World In His Hand.” I was able to conduct it and sing the solo alongside Monica and Sylvia (two great friends- and amazing singers at that). Afterwards the men’s choir sang “We Shall Walk Through The Valley.” I found myself being ministered to as they sang. These two songs felt like God was reminding me that even though we as a people may go through various trials, and at different degrees, God is in control and we can trust Him.
St. Joseph’s Catholic Academy was our main destination for the day. There we gave a concert with the songs we have been working on for the past several months on late Tuesday nights. All the late nights paired with early mornings were worth it when we saw their reactions. They lit up and even asked for a second performance of The Coconut Song. We were able to give all of the students pencils and crayons thanks to the many donations that had been collecting in advance. The concert, the gifts, and the Baylor to Academy interactions were very sweet. The kids loved examining those who looked different than them. They enjoyed the music and little games. I had great conversations with Mercy, Gloria, Joshua, and Adrian. All of which gave me hugs at our goodbye.
We were welcomed warmly by the students at St. Joseph’s.
Following St. Joseph’s was our trip to our hotel for the next two nights. Here we ate another delicious meal and reviewed our day. Two questions were asked by Dr. Bradley, “How have you seen God today?” And “What are you afraid of?” These two questions were very helpful to not only personally reflect, but also see how our team is doing as a whole. Overall, we are extremely appreciative of safe travels and good health. Our fears are largely based off lack of competency such as language barriers. Prayer allowed us to end with peace, thanking God for today and trusting Him for tomorrow. We look forward to going into the Komolion village and serving the community in the days to come.
Please continue to pray for us as we travel, sing, and serve.
Blessings,
-Sarah Noemi Martinez
“And one called to another and said: “Holy, holy, holy is the Lord of hosts; the whole earth is full of his glory!” Isaiah 6:3 ESV
