We started the day serving alongside the AIC (African Inland Church) local mission church through home visits and delivering food packages in the Kijabe area.  Each group had a church elder that took them to the homes. Both of us (Emily and Jesse) were in the same group.  Our first house was on the outskirts of town.  The path to the house was steep and narrow and required us to cross the water on a manmade wooden bridge.  Because I (Jesse) was a little scared, I made Emily go first and carry the bag of food while the assistant pastor (our elder) took pictures of me crossing the bridge.  Don’t worry mom, I said a prayer and took a leap of faith (literally). 

Despite the family in the first house having nineteen people in small quarters with no heating or insulation, they eagerly welcomed us into their home and shared what little they had.  After prayer and words of encouragement, the father walked us up a steep climb to our next destination even with having an illness that targeted his muscles, hindering his mobility.  We were impressed by this act of hospitality that clearly shows the strong communal aspect of Kenyan culture.

The second lady we visited was not at her home, so we gave our food to a nearby friend to give to her.  It is common practice in Kenya to show up unexpectedly, rather than making plans. By doing home visits, we were able to see the typical living conditions of many Kenyan families. 

After lunch, we split into teams and did the Amazing Mango Race. This competition included buying a mango at the shops in town and displaying it as best as possible. There were four categories: lowest price, best taste, fastest time, and prettiest presentation.  One group, in particular, made a biblical story with their presentation and blew it out of the waters (shoutout Megan, Melanie, and April)!  The ladies in the kitchen were the judges and were very pleased to spend time and laugh with us.  

After eating tons of mango, many of us went shopping in the town at the dukas (shops). And yes, we were thinking of others when we were shopping (not just ourselves).  

Today was a big day here in Kijabe with lots of walking (New Year’s resolution starting off strong).  We will rest well tonight and be returning to Rift Valley Hope in the morning. 

by Jesse & Emily