january 2023.

This month began with my friend Meganne still in the country for a few more days. We enjoyed the beautiful weather! I continue to feel so grateful to have had some quality time with a dear friend. I went into this month feeling filled and refreshed. My friend shared with me a way that God has been speaking to her and it’s been encouraging me ever since, so I thought I would share it with you too!

The Hebrew word “dayenu” was used around the Jewish time of Passover. “Dayenu” translates to “it would have been enough.” In its historical context, the Jewish people wrote a song to reflect upon the ways that God had provided for them amidst trials. The idea that it would have been enough if God had solely brought the Israelites out of slavery, it would have been enough if God had fed us, it would have been enough if God provided shelter… But God did so much more than just enough. He continues to do more than enough for His people. “Dayenu” is a reminder to be grateful for the love that God lavishes on His people.

As I’ve reflected in my own life, these realizations and prayers have come to me.

Lord, it would have been enough to provide me with a job. Thank you for blessing me with a job that I adore.

Lord, it would have been enough to keep me safe in Kenya. Thank you for giving me friends and a community here.

Lord, it would have been enough to give me life. Thank you for my health, my opportunities, my experiences, and my relationships.

God is such a good Father to us!

January at West Nairobi School marks Africa Celebration month! In third grade, we focus on Central Africa. This year, one of my students recently joined our class from the Democratic Republic of the Congo, so we invited his mom to come and share about the culture and traditions. I even got to practice my French with her! It is so amazing to have such a culturally diverse classroom.

This year, my class has been focusing on Jesus’ ministry while on earth. We have committed to memorize John 2:1-11, Jesus’ first miracle. As we’ve been unpacking this story, I have been amazed by my students’ childlike faith and curiosity. We talked about how the wine Jesus replaced at the wedding is a bit like running out of cake at your birthday party. The celebration would go on, but you’d be disappointed. The students were able to make connections to Jesus’ compassion and kindness. I love seeing Scripture come to life in their eyes.

As I mentioned last month, I didn’t feel settled and at peace with the decision to move back to Canada at the end of May. I have taken time to pray, wrestle my thoughts, and be completely honest with God and I have come to the decision that I will return to Kenya at the end of July for another school year! I simply don’t feel that God is done with me here yet. I enjoy living here and am not reading to close this chapter yet. Thank you for your continued prayers and support. It is so appreciated!

Thankfully,

j.