The day started off with a wholesome and hearty breakfast of perfect porridge, terrific toast and celebratory cereal. After everyone had finished their breakfast we hastily moved into sharing our (Hana and James’) personal messages on what God put on each of our hearts. Moving on from then, the group sang a heavenly tune in Swahili to post on Facebook to Pastor JD for his birthday – ‘Heri ya siku ya kwaliwa (Happy birthday).
We then had worship and a brief briefing, before hitting the slums in Esso with the rest of the group. We were hosted by Pastor Elita and the team from the church in Esso and separated into five groups with around 4 people in each. Each group prayed together for ‘words of knowledge’ then set out on our mission.
James’ group highlight (written in first person):
My team, consisting of Kevin, Juliet, Jan, Elia, and myself went out following where God led us. We ended up in a courtyard leading up to a few houses. Many needs were fulfilled through God such as healing the pain a woman was feeling in her feet. The real highlight/shocking moment was when we were in the courtyard and this woman started getting a headache.
The team laid hands on her and as soon as I put my hand on her head her hands flew up in the air and turned around with her hand clenched and started to throw punches at Elia (our translator). Elia grabbed both of her wrists as she was still trying to throw punches. The rest of us stood back and prayed while she was still trying wiggle free of Elia’s grip. The situation started to calm down very slowly but none of us are convinced she has been totally delivered and healed yet. We were on a time limit which we had already surpassed so we were forced to leave. On the way back Elia recalled her saying (in Swahili) ‘Why are you trying to destroy our kingdom’ and ‘what have we done to you’. It was interesting to encounter firsthand the spiritual realities of the slum. There is definitely a lot of darkness there!
Esso Slum in Arusha
Once all the groups returned to the church, we shared stories of what had happened in the slums, and there were so many inspiring experiences where it was clear God had moved. The church put on a big lunch for the group, with many of us being forced to eat more food.
The day winded down as we returned to EnGeti and relaxed in the African atmosphere and enjoyed the last of the setting sun. Bespoke.
Praying for you guys:) remember Isaiah 54:17
“:1 No weapon formed against you shall prosper,
And every tongue which rises against you in judgment
You shall condemn.
This is the heritage of the servants of the Lord,
And their righteousness is from Me,”
Says the Lord.”
Bless you guys:) – see you soon!