  A Living BlessingJuly 28, 2010  My time in Kenya (so far) can be characterized nicely by an encounter that I had just last night. I was on my way across the beautiful KBTC campus to eat dinner and then go to bed, as I was very tired after six hours of class. On the way, there was a Kenyan man walking in the same direction and, as is custom in Kenya, we shook hands and greeted. He informed me of his name, Onesmus, and told me that he had just arrived in order to graduate the next day at the large ceremony KBTC would be hosting.
Without missing a beat, he asked if he could grab some tea with me and we were soon on our way. I have learned that Kenyans have a much broader concept of friendship than we do in the States, and all it takes is a smile and handshake to become deeply committed to a fellow brother. Age, race, and life situation all fade under the same Gospel and Spirit.
The tea turned into a meal, and the meal turned into a couple hours of deep fellowship. I have also learned that in Kenya there is little appreciation of small talk, and within minutes we were discussing ministry, struggles, hopes, and even dreaming about what we could do together if he was able to travel across the pond with me back to Houston. Onesmus has a heart for ministry that allows him to love deeply, to explore courageously, and to dream largely. He very much epitomizes the character and nature of the Kenyan people I have been fortunate enough to get to know.
They are a group of beautiful humans who are captured by the Gospel and enraptured by a pure love for their Creator and Savior. In the States, I have rarely seen the same eagerness for learning and growing that I have seen here. Unfortunately, they lack the resources that most take for granted. There is much to be done and many to be served here in Kenya. The people of God who are blessed with resources must not hesitate to share, serve, and go. And for those who choose to go, there are many rewards and blessings waiting to be found - I met one last night, his name was Onesmus.
Mike Skinner 
CommentsJen BowersJuly 28, 2010 1:44 PM
Thanks for sharing! I have met one Kenyan in Houston and he displays some of the characteristics you are describing. So thankful for the blessings you are giving and receiving during your time in Kenya. Enjoy your last few days! Can't wait to hear all about it when you get home! |
 July 21, 2010 It began in ‘baby Hebrew' class, singing the 133rd psalm and being captivated by Jamie's stories of joy and life of a different kind. It continued in Kenya with a summer long practicum with another people, experiencing rich community in ways that left us permanently changed. That joy and that life continues to haunt us, to challenge us, and to bless us, even today.
Psalm 133 was sung in anticipation of communal worship to the King. It is about how good and how marvelous life is when we ... July 15, 2010 Dear Ones,
Mimi and I greet you from the Kenya Baptist Theological College in Limuru, Kenya.
We have just said asante sana, "thank you very much" to Justin Hyde, Peter Morisette, and Alex Smiley. Justin and Peter taught courses at the KBTC, and Alex has been helping dig post holes for a new fence line that will help guard some KBTC land soon to be farmed for the first time. All preached and mentored our family of faith here.
Mimi and I don't say good bye - Alex will be back ... July 7, 2010 After a full day (24 hours) of travel, my friend Peter and I landed in Nairobi late on Saturday night, June 26, 2010. More excited than weary, we met with our new friends Enos Weswah (Principal, ... June 30, 2010 As we reflect on this past season and look forward to the coming season, Destiny and I realize that our lives are truly a testimony of God's abundant grace. Daily we recognize our need for God and we ... June 22, 2010 Mimi and I apologize for the long delay in writing. We have returned to our hearts' home and are more than well. Our schedule in Nairobi has been crazy busy. Yep ... you can take the American out ... Full Archives
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