Day 3 ....

The day began full of excitement knowing we were traveling to the Sinai slum area. We prepared by praying and putting on some good closed toe shoes. On the drive we had to go through a large industrial area. I saw many petrol fuel trucks and below are a few things I noticed ~

A man with a wooden cart loaded with tall sugar cane, cutting it into pieces to eat.
On the back of one of these petrol trucks, a little boy (about 10 years old) was hitching a ride.
Pineapple being sold out of wooden wheel barrel.
A huge Coke banner on a high rise building.

Pastor Peter met us in the industrial area before heading into the slum. As we entered, the smells that began to fill the air was distinct. People walking everywhere. We had to park the car in a secure area then began the walk. We had to have "guards" with us along with Pastor Peter to ensure our safety while there.Our security were 2 wonderful young men who were very protective of us. I never felt afraid ~

Walking along rough dirt pathways...lined for miles and miles with metal shacks. Chickens roaming ~ sweet little faces coming up alongside us. A complete city within itself ~ Food shacks with meat hanging full of flies..even a hair salon. It began to rain and the dirt quickly turned to slippery mud. Our walk followed a narrow pathway to the church where Pastor Peter ministered. As we entered the doorway, the most precious faces greeted us. Mothers with little babies, children, young pretty girls and men all sitting on long wooden benches. What joy we witnessed from many of those faces. To receive a smile back was very rewarding.
We had to begin the meeting and we all joined in singing a song. My Swahili is very limited....1 word...Jambo  (hello)..but I could clap my hands and hold back the tears that wanted to freely flow. My heart felt twisted and churned over and over. However, as the service continued a gentle peace came all over me. It felt good.
We had to introduce ourselves and say a few words while Pastor translated. We had brought cooking oil, corn flour and rice to hand out to families. Pastor did a roll call and when their name was called, each would come forward for his portion. A plastic bag was held by the most beautiful hands to receive what we had brought for 50 families. Children were given candy treats and LOVED it !!  A little boy was even brave enough to venture over to me and sit on my lap. We also had little dolls that brought so much joy ~

We continued on to the fire site where the gas explosion happened recently. Perhaps you saw the news coverage on CNN. It was very quiet when we approached. People are afraid to return to the site due to the trauma. It seemed very  surreal to be standing on this ground. 100 people still missing ~ 117 people killed .
I forgot to mention...2 fire victims were at the church. One lady burned on her leg. Another mother with a baby who was safe but she was badly burned on her face. Several pigs roamed through the debris while smoke still smoldered in a few places. As we walked down to the water, Julie found a piece of a family photo that will be cherished. Houses that were only 8 by 6 were reduced to nothing but a concrete slab. There is nothing left in this area. Our guards were telling us where they were on that horrific morning and what they experienced. Since it had rained earlier, we suddenly looked up and saw the most amazing rainbow in the sky !!  God`s promise to not fear and that He brings great hope ~ Please pray for these survivors who need love and God`s provision.

Driving back to our house in heavy traffic...there was a silence at times. It had been a day filled with heartache, joy and compassion all mixed together in one pile. Thank you Father for this time to serve and show your love ~ We will forever be changed.

With Him,
   debi