There is an old man who faithfully bikes around town, selling oranges or mangoes that grow on the trees at his home. He comes straight to your door and sells you fruit in abundance at low prices, but also quotes Scriptures and requests prayers whenever he comes to visit. A few months ago this man of God fell sick and ended up in the hospital. In order to cover the medical expenses he sold his bicycle (which he needs to get to town since his home is 16 kilometres away) and paid for the hospital visit and some medicines. He didn't have enough medicine to finish the dose and his blood pressure was very high, so he came requesting assistance. Together we went to see the doctor and I made sure that he was getting the right treatment.
Then a little while later, a friend was offering him a bicycle at a discounted rate and he was able to raise half himself, but needed assistance buying the rest of the bicycle. I just kept thinking about my elderly grandfathers... and how much I would be wanting to help them if they had to bike 16 kilometres into town just to sell a few pieces of fruit.
So then, last week, this old man came to my door and told me that his wife really wanted to meet the angel who was helping her family. I really didn't want to go and spend a day in the village, but it ended up being a true blessing.
The children stayed home from school, so they could meet this white lady who was coming to their homestead. I'm always amazed at children looking after children. A 6 year old carrying a 2 week old.
The father wanted to know if I could offer any wisdom to his four sons. He had only four children because he knew he could provide for those ones, but now two of those boys are married and already have 8 children each. One of the sons said to me, "Auntie, will God judge me for not multiplying the earth enough? My wife has produced 8, but the doctors fear for her life if we have another child. Is family planning okay? What should we do?" That was the basis of a very interesting discussion - about God's commands, blessings, forgiveness, and grace. I finished the day sharing Bible stories with the whole family, after partaking of a simple meal of rice, chicken, and atap (sorghum and millet bread).
Something exciting... one of my favourite, or classier joints to eat in town just brought in a cappuccino/espresso maker. Today was a day for free samples. :)
Betty wasn't so sure about the ham in her croissant, and I needed more sugar in my coffee, but it was a very fun experience.
Goretti couldn't finish her hot drink. :(
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