"Pawdners..." (said with my best southern drawl)

~ which I really can do, since I grew up in Oklahoma and since my parents/ grandparents/etc., are all from S. Illinois... like as far south in the state of Illinois as you can go and have it still be considered Illinois... but that is all totally off the subject.

Since we first arrived in Niger, we've seen our team change... go from three families --- to only us... then start to grow again... we are still reeling a little from disappointment, as this spring/summer, we've seen God directing some of those partners to other teams and ministires... which makes us all the more thankful for those who are still here. Working in a place like Niger, while there is no other place we'd rather be, is hard in many ways. I can't pick up the phone and call my mom or sister... letters and emails often disappear into cyberspace and responses never come because life is just so busy... I blog, which I love and which helps others feel like they know us a little, know our kids - but "feedback" and reciprocity is more unlikely than common. Facebook is fun, and it is amazing the little pieces of daily life to which you have access... that I've never had before. I don't want it to sound like I'm complaining because I'm not. When we told God, "Yes," this was all part of the counted cost. But it does make me sad.

And reality is - those people who are here, doing similar things to what we are doing, leaving and living elsewhere - whether a part of our particular organization or not - DO become family. So while we anticipate many wonderful hellos and so-DELIGHTED-to-see-yous in just a few weeks, it is a bit bittersweet because it also signifies many sad and difficult goodbyes to those we love here. I know it is hard for me... I think it is even harder for our kids.

See? It is making Anna act just a little wierd! *smile*

These photos were taken back in May, at a picnic with the Sahel Academy dorm family. Our colleagues, Tim and Janice Phillips are the dorm parents. They've been in Niger for a little over a year now, and they are a part of our missionary family. Although their ministry does not center on Nigeriens, what they do makes it possible for many other missionary families (from all over W. Africa) to continue to live, work, minister and live out God's calling on their lives.

This afternoon, we ate pig roasted in a barbecue pit, ate yummy salads and desserts (like homemade banana pudding... totally from scratch - even the vanilla wafers - which, by the way, can't be beat!). The kids swam in the river (that's why they look so icky and grimey), enjoyed the flame of a campfire (even though it was well over 100' ~ we missos are a strange lot, sometimes), sat and visited under the shade of luscious mango trees, spent some time singing, praising and worshipping the Lord and were encouraged by the example of Esther in the Bible as she faced upcoming changes and unknowns in her life.

Even with all the hard and heartbreaking twists of this path along which God is leading us, I don't think we'd change a thing... unless it would be to trust Him more completely, to believe Him always... to truly taste and see that He is good.

And what would you have said? What would you have done?

I taught ladies' Bible study again, the last Saturday of May. I was priviledged to have our Regional Coordinator's wife, Diane Marine, join me... and she even snapped a few photos for me. It was a sweet time... although we started, stopped, started again, stopped... and started one last time (thankfully) until we finished - because of a sand storm that blew in off the desert. The guard for the church property had left to buy feed the animals, so we were stuck sitting outside (although we did find a more sheltered spot), trying to study, speak, listen and learn, all the while the storm blew through. I'm still shaking sand out of my Bible - over a week later. :D

I'd like to share what I taught. It was actually a lesson that the Lord postponed. I was supposed to teach the last week in April. However, there was some confusion amongst the women in the church and only my translator (the acting pastor's wife) and myself showed up. We had a nice opportunity to talk and share (more about that another day), and then we each headed on to our next thing. God wanted me to wait on that lesson, however; He knew I'd need it at this time, right now.

Last weekend, we looked at the feeding of the 5000, in John 6. We've been studying through the book of John, studying times when people have "encountered" Jesus. Thus, we continued the same idea... trying to learn about Jesus as he met with men and changed their lives.

"After these things Jesus went over the sea of Galilee, which is the sea of Tiberias. And a great multitude followed him, because they saw his miracles which he did on them that were diseased. And Jesus went up into a mountain, and there he sat with his disciples. And the passover, a feast of the Jews, was nigh.

When Jesus then lifted up his eyes, and saw a great company come unto him, he saith unto Philip, 'Whence shall we buy bread, that these may eat?' And this he said to prove him: for he himself knew what he would do.

Philip answered him, 'Two hundred pennyworth of bread is not sufficient for them, that every one of them may take a little.'

One of his disciples, Andrew, Simon Peter's brother, saith unto him, 'There is a lad here, which hath five barley loaves, and two small fishes: but what are they among so many?'

And Jesus said, 'Make the men sit down. Now there was much grass in the place.' So the men sat down, in number about five thousand. And Jesus took the loaves; and when he had given thanks, he distributed to the disciples, and the disciples to them that were set down; and likewise of the fishes as much as they would. When they were filled, he said unto his disciples, 'Gather up the fragments that remain, that nothing be lost.'

Therefore they gathered them together, and filled twelve baskets with the fragments of the five barley loaves, which remained over and above unto them that had eaten.

Then those men, when they had seen the miracle that Jesus did, said, 'This is of a truth that prophet that should come into the world.'

When Jesus therefore perceived that they would come and take him by force, to make him a king, he departed again into a mountain himself alone." (John 6:1-15, KJV)

This is the only one of Jesus' miracles that is recorded in all four gospels (Matt 14, Mark 6, Luke 7 and John 6). That makes me think it reveals some pretty important information about Jesus. I've heard many sermons on this, heard it taught in Sunday school... I even think there is a song or two about this miracle. This was, however, the first time that I studied it in depth, meditating on it for several weeks, now.

When you study the context, at least from what I found, most scholars figure that about 6 months had passed since the confrontation with the chief Jews in John 5. During that 6 months, Jesus had sent out his disciples 2 by 2 and they had performed great miracles and wonders by the power of his name. John the Baptist had also been beheaded. The disciples had now returned and one theory is that Jesus was trying to escape from the crowds for a few moments - to celebrate and debrief as well as to mourn together with his closest friends and associates.

But the crowds followed them... because of the incredible things Jesus had done. Night begins to fall and the disciples find themselves in an isolated and possibly less than familiar spot with many thousands of people who will soon be getting quite hungry. In one of the other accounts, it says that they approached Jesus and asked him to send the people away in time for them to find a meal.

This is the part that keeps grabbing ahold of my thoughts. I completely understand why the disciples wanted Jesus to send the people away. They were tired - not long returned from an exhilerating but exhausting time of ministry - they didn't have the wherewithal to figure out how to provide for such a great crowd - yet they knew that very soon, these people were going to want to have a very real need met. The disciples could have simply gone out into the crowd themselves and starting pointing people in another direction... but they didn't. Instead, they asked the Lord to send them on their way.

Quite frankly, that is about where I am right now. People are still coming to us... needing... wanting... asking... searching... and I'm tired, very busy, a little afraid about all of the upcoming changes for our family, and just tired from the heat and grind of daily life in this country. In my heart, I keep asking the Lord to just keep these folks away and let me take care of packing, of kids grieving the loss of pets and the only home some of them remember, finishing up last minute projects, and wondering about instability where there has most recently has not been... It seems like way too much too try and handle, so my tendancy is to spend much of my prayer time just asking God to make it diminish... or even better... go away!

Jesus, however, takes the situation and turns it back on the disciples - testing them - and I've been wondering if this wasn't part of their "debriefing." For Jesus knew all along what he planned to do. He asked the disciples a single question: "Where can we buy bread to feed all these people?"

I wonder why he didn't ask a different question: "How are we going to feed all of these people?" or "Do you think we should provide a meal for everyone?" Instead, he knew there would be a meal - he asked his disciples where to find the necessary resources to do so.

Philip responds first, essentially saying, "We can't. There just isn't sufficient money." Andrew, who has been searching about on his own for a solution, then pops up and says "Well, this is what we have to give, but there is no way it will suffice." The Bible does not give Jesus' response, but I wonder what he was thinking. I wonder if he was discouraged - that the disciples had still not learned that he is the need supplier, that he only asks us to give what he asks and nothing more or less, leaving him to do the multiplying work. I identify with the disciples so clearly at this moment. I wish he'd just send them all away so I could have some time with him, some time to rest and prepare for the next big thing on my agenda. But people are still wanting to be fed, still needing to be served... I know there is no way in the world, especially in a place like Niger, that I could even begin to meet the basic needs of even just my neighbors in our little corner of Niamey. Even beginning to contemplate such a thought is overwhelming... and I tell Jesus, "Sorry, Lord. I'm spent." Or, I dig around and rustle up a few ressources that I feel I can contribute, but offer it sheepishly to God saying, "Um, here's what I've got... but it ain't gonna go very far in this situation."

This reminded me of another occasion in Scripture: Moses was leading the Israelites through the desert and they began to demand more to eat than just the manna. It was clearly a situation beyond Moses' power and ability to provide. What did Moses do? He cried out to God. God provided meat.

I asked the ladies what they thought Jesus might have thought about the disciples responses. It was a question that stumped them - I'm not sure if that is because they aren't used to wondering what Jesus might have been thinking or if it is because no response is recorded in God's Word. Jesus simply takes the meager resources that Andrew has located, given by a young boy in the crowd (one who wasn't even counted by men's standards, as the biblical account tells us that there were 5000 men present), blesses those 5 loaves and two fish - and lavishes extravagantly the people with what they most need at that moment.

What would have been the proper response? Two verses come to mind:

1. "Then he answered and spake unto me, saying, This is the word of the Lord unto Zerubbabel, saying, Not by might, nor by power, but by my spirit, saith the Lord of hosts." (Zech 4:6, KJV) and
2. "Not that I speak in respect of want: for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content. I know both how to be abased, and I know how to abound: every where and in all things I am instructed both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need. I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me." (Phil 4:11-13, KJV)

Thus, lessons I've learned from this passage include:

1. My immediate, natural human response when I come to my end (ressources, ideas, things to say, things to give, things to do...) is to ask Jesus to send the searchers away.
2. Yet Jesus just might take that request and turn it around to test me, particularly if I've come from a mountain-top experience where I'm tempted to think that service in my own strength is effective, to see how much I've really learned to depend on him by telling me "You give to them."
3. Unfortunately, my most common reaction to this command is to say, "I've nothing left," or "What I've got could never suffice."
4. A better response would be, "Lord, you've asked me to meet these needs, but I can't. I need you, your strength, your blessing because I've come to the end of myself."

----------------------------------------------------

On a totally unrelated topic... I'm just wearing the same outfit... here are a couple of photos Brendan snapped of Mary Michelle and myself. She's growing up so fast!

Wordless Wednesday - Tantalizing Tuareg "Tea for Two"

April, 2009

"The hope of the righteous

shall be gladness:

but the expectation of the wicked

shall perish.

The way of the Lord

is strength to the upright:

but destruction shall be

to the workers of iniquity.

The righteous shall never be removed…"

Proverbs 10.28-30a

This year is an election year in Niger – a time of uncertainty and possible significant change, even as we are currently experiencing in our own country. Change can be either positive, or negative, but rising costs on staple goods, the worldwide economic struggles, a never-ending battle for adequate resources in this poverty stricken land (food, potable water, education, health care) as well as the inherent deceitfulness of man's heart that often leads to corruption in power are just some of the issues. The results of this election will have implications on all of us who live, work and minister in Niger. Many of our Nigerien brothers and sisters are already praying fervently about the events that will take place over the coming months. We are praying for righteous and upright men to lead this country; we rest in the knowledge that it is our Heavenly Father who decides who rules and who will be our earthly authorities.

Speaking of changes, EBM-Niger is facing some significant changes and challenges. Our colleagues, Bob and Lois Gillespie, are taking an early furlough with an indefinite return date due to health issues with family members back in the States. We are eagerly anticipating the return of Dave and Anora Totman and their family. However due to logistical issues, they will not be returning to work with EBM. As our Regional Directors (Chris and Diane Marine) and we are both leaving in the next two months for furlough, we are feeling that loss sharply. However, it is exciting to see that our God, who was not surprised by this change of plans, is already putting people into key places. Rich Melvin is here and will be covering the business office. Kathy Miller should be arriving this summer and will be working at Sahel Academy. Just this evening we heard that Amber Marshall has received another chunk of her support necessary to return – keep praying in the rest of what she needs. Tim and Janice Phillips, Sahel dorm parents, have several years of experience in W. Africa, so we know we are leaving administrative responsibilities in capable hands. When you pray for us, please remember to pray for this wonderful team of people the Lord has gathered together to serve Him here in Niamey.

In the past several weeks, we've made a hard decision. We have decided to terminate our lease, so we must pack up our house instead of subletting it to someone for the year. The Lord had provided a renter for us, but as we prayed and thought… and prayed and thought… the Lord made it clear that this was the plan He had for us. Our children are sad that when we return after our year in the States, we won't be returning to "our home," but we are all excited to see how He will provide in the future.

Just last week, we were able to hold our second teacher in-service at the French School, trying to equip our teachers with a variety of additional skills in classroom management. We sincerely thank Martine Audeoud, a teacher at the American International School of Niamey for her help with these in-services. Her experience and expertise in education has been a huge blessing and the teachers have not only learned much, but have also enjoyed the opportunity to interact with her. The Easter Program held a few weeks back was well-done and had a few moments of excitement as the students acted out the story of Elijah and the Prophets of Baal… complete with flame. Where's the camera when you really need it! Teachers and students are in the final stretch for this academic year. CM2 students are busily preparing for their exams, and teachers are synthesizing material that has been taught throughout the year. Recently one of our CM2 students was selected the winner in a large writing contest held throughout French speaking West Africa. As a result, he and his parents get to take a trip to Canada. This was a huge encouragement to our teaching staff, many of whom have had this young man in their classes as he has progressed through the school. Please pray for our staff and students as they prepare for these important end-of-the-year exams. Also pray for Richelle, as President of the French School Committee, and Tim, as the Field Director. Prior to our departure in mid July, we need to complete all staff evaluations and performance reviews and hopefully have contracts signed and staff in place for the 2009-2010 school year.

At the studio, Tim is, of course, keeping up with regular weekly radio programming. He is also putting the finishing touches on the last three "official" music albums he hopes to finish before furlough. He is also video editing a Christian literacy training program, "Cours B…aaba," that those involved in the Christian Education movement here in the country will be able to use. And that brings us to a huge, but still inadequate, THANK YOU. Thank you to all of you who gave or prayed for the provision of a hook-up to the neighboring generator for the studio ~ especially to our home and sending church, Calvary Baptist of Midland, MI. Yesterday alone, there were 9 different power outages and Tim said they were able to continue working only because of the generator hook up. During hot season, electricity becomes an unpredictable commodity. Not having it would make it exceedingly difficult for Tim to finish this term well at the studio.

Richelle is, once again, delighted to be helping teach the swimming and water polo units at Sahel Academy. Mary Michelle and Rebekah are troopers, as Rebekah hangs out with the baby under the shade of the mango trees watching the baby so that Richelle can teach but still be accessible if needed. There are definitely worse places to be than at the pool when the temperature soars up above 110' to even 120'F quite regularly in the afternoons.

School is also winding up for our children. Brendan finishes at Sahel the end of May (and we are looking forward to his help in packing up the house). Rebekah and Jonathan will probably be home schooling right up to the time we leave… they missed some time as we traveled back and forth, and, of course, with Mary Michelle's arrival. Nadia, Anna and Victoria (pictured below receiving an award for "Orderliness") finish at Ecole Alliance at the end of June. Nadia is working with a tutor, preparing for the CM2 exams, even though technically she is only a CM1 student this year. Her teacher feels she will be ready and we feel it will be a good learning experience for her. Please keep her in your prayers, too.

Thankful to be serving the Savior together with you,
Tim, Richelle, Brendan, Rebekah Joy, Nadia, Anna, Victoria, Jonathan, Elsie Mae and Mary Michelle Wright

Impressions

Another week is off and running:

• The Ecole Alliance girls are on vacation and they as well as Rebekah and Jonathan are finishing up their morning chores;
• while they work, they are plotting and planning their costumes for a medieval festival/fun fair that will be held later on in the week;
• I just ate toast with butter and RASPBERRY jelly (I found a jar while grocery shopping on Saturday and splurged - $6);
• while writing I'm also searching for my vanilla wafer recipe because I'll need it to make banana pudding later this week (it is quite a good recipe, too... or I've been here long enough that it doesn't matter anymore);
• it is quite warm and humid already this morning and the girls are hoping it rains (I have my doubts);
• I'm looking forward to our second session of the high school swim program tomorrow;
• Elsie Mae is listening to and singing along with lullabies while rocking her baby doll;
• the peanut M&M is sleeping in her bouncy seat - as long as my foot rests on her tummy, bouncing the seat up and down;
• the menagerie of animals has been fed;
• email downloaded;
• before too long, I need to get back to work on Sheep Tales;
• and while all of this is going on, thoughts about what to pack up and store/what to pack up and take/what to give away/what to sell are tumbling around in my head as the May 1 deadline for "starting official preps for furlough" looms quite near.

Yesterday was an interesting morning at church. Someone had given so that the people of church needing meningitis vaccinations could receive them. So, a nurse (who I'm assuming is a Christian - she certainly enjoyed singing and dancing during the praise and worship time and "Amen-ed" several times while Tim was preaching) was there throughout the morning and both before and after the service, people lined up to receive the shot.

Most of the service, I was outside in the courtyard with Mary - she was hot and fussy and I didn't want her antics to disturb her daddy while he was preaching. So, I had quite a bit of time to observe. The nurse brought the meningitis vaccines already drawn up in prepared needles which she kept cool in a small water cooler (maybe held a gallon of water) filled with ice. Throughout the church service, when she'd get thirsty, she'd come out and pour off a little water from the melting ice to get a drink. Later, as people lined up for shots, they'd roll their sleeve up, cover their eyes or look away and she'd almost gleefully stab the needle into their arm. Then the needle would be discarded into a large bowl by her feet (I was more than a little nervous about that, especially with all of the kids running round… including my own), and the next person would begin rolling up their sleeve. I used to think Tim was awful about shots and needle pokes (after 8 pregnancies, I'm a little less than sympathetic to those who are wimpy about such things), but these folks were hilariously so. And, no one minded putting on a show of hysterics for the rest of the church to observe. :P Chalk that up as another lesson in culture. Hopefully, my younger children haven't been horribly traumatized after having watched these adults and their reactions.

While the procedure was a bit unsettling, I am thankful that our church family had this opportunity made available to them. March – May is the worst time for meningitis. Recently, I read this, this, this and this… and even though we've not heard of a lot of meningitis actually here in the city, it is a reality of life in Niger, especially for those who live where medical care and medications are not readily accessible. So, that started me thinking about other "realities" in the life of most Nigeriens, and I decided to share some survey results with you.

This survey was conducted by another organization working in Niger; they carried out the survey in villages near the bush churches where Tim regularly goes to preach, so I found it particularly interesting.

Here are some of the results they obtained:

Health

Malaria, diarrhea, fevers, stomach pains and worms are the most commonly reported illnesses.

Only 20% of children under five were born in a health facility.

79% were born either at home, in the bush or elsewhere in the village.

36% of children received more than six months of exclusive breastfeeding (based on recommended minimum from the World Health Organization)

58% of the people were ill within the last month alone and 80% sought help

Out of all deaths reported inthe last year, 79% of those were children under the age of 5

Education

Only 20% of the people have ever attended school in their lives

Only 40% of the kids who should be in school today actually are

Only 7% of the population have ever completed primary school

Water

70% of people use forage pump wells and 30% use surface (contaminated) wells

25% of the people spend between 1-5 hours for EVERY trip to get water: some walking 3-5 km in the dry season (or year-round) to reach the nearest well.

Sanitation

79% of the people have no toilet facilities and go out into the bush

the rest use occasionally a shower area behind their hut - in the Fulani villages, there are no properly dug latrines

40% of the population uses soap when washing daily

The Jesus Film

Easter is always a great opportunity to show the Jesus film, and Tim was able to do so both last Wednesday and Saturday nights.

Wednesday, he and one of our colleagues headed out to the group of bush villages where Tim preaches on a monthly basis. This is what our colleague had to say about the experience:

"This past week, a fellow missionary and I went out to a remote village one evening to show the Jesus film. This church is one of a group of churches where we have baptized many believers in the past few years. We do not have any missionaries regularly working with these churches, but they are doing quite well on their own evangelizing and spreading out all over that region. The last time I was at this particular village, the church had just started with a hand full of believers. Since then, they have built a small church with a shelter along side it."

"When we arrived, there was a Good Friday service going on and about 200 people from all around the region were crammed into the shelter listening to sermons, one after another. Just before dark, they broke up and we set up for the film. The full moon was just coming up, and I could hear drums and singing coming from all directions as the people spread out into smaller groups waiting for the film. We set up a screen that can be viewed on both sides, women on one side and the men on the other. With the help of a generator, a projector and an amplifier, over 200 people viewed the film that night."

"Afterwards, many villagers came to the pastors to learn how to receive Christ. We guess that there will have to be another baptism soon, but not until the rains come and fill up the waterholes again."

"We used my GPS to work our way out of the bush late that night. There are no roads out there—just donkey and bike paths that meander all over. Since it is not safe to drive late at night way away from the city (Niamey), we spent that night on the porch of the house of a missionary couple who are on furlough. There was no need for an alarm to wake us; the guinea hens woke us up in time to get on the road early so I could get back to my classes at Sahel Academy."

"Reflecting on the whole event made me remember once again that the God who listens to our worship in our beautiful churches is the same God who works in the lives of these people who barely have enough food to eat. These people have the joy and love from the Holy Spirit, and they take their relationship with Christ very seriously. It is not just something they do on Sunday. It has become so much a part their lives that literally entire villages are coming to the Lord through their living testimonies. Once again, I was humbled and challenged by their sincere and simple faith."

If you'd like to read more about their ministry, head over to their web page.

Encountering Jesus - Jesus Speaks with the Jews in Charge

To read about what Richelle recently shared with Ladies' Bible study the last Saturday of March, follow this link to Our Wrighting Pad.

Painting: "The Pharisees," by Karl Schmidt-Rottluff, painted in 1912.

Recording Tamashek Music

Spring 2009 Prayer Letter

Sentiment – Something I Can Do!

If there be therefore any consolation in Christ,

if any comfort of love,

if any fellowship of the Spirit,

if any bowels and mercies,

Fulfil ye my joy,

that ye be likeminded,

having the same love,

being of one accord, of one mind.

Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory;

but in lowliness of mind

let each esteem others better than themselves.

Look not every man on his own things,

but every man also on the things of others.

Let this mind be in you,

which was also in Christ Jesus…

Phil 2:1-5

This passage has been one on which we’ve been meditating much this past month… Tim recently preached on it; Richelle has been praying through it, specifically in regards to her role in the ministry at the French School. It seems like a pretty tall order… to have within us the same mind that Christ demonstrated as He ministered in this world. And it is.

What is encouraging, however, is that it is possible – for each follower of Jesus. There are so many things about Christ that we can’t be: we aren’t God incarnate, we cannot create from nothing, we cannot heal, we cannot raise the dead nor can we change hearts – but we are commanded to have the same mind, this same “sentiment” (the word used in the French), that the man Christ had/has – thus it must be something that we, in our human frailness, can strive to achieve. If you tend to be a doer, like we are, isn’t it nice to have something concrete on which you can work? We can choose to esteem others more highly than ourselves. We can prefer the interests of others over our own. Humility and gentleness can be our preferences. And all of this is possible because Christ is our encouragement, because His love is our comfort and because His Spirit unifies. May these truths encourage you, as they have us.

Tri-M Graduation

March 21, 2009, these three men graduated from EBM’s Mobil Modular Ministry pastoral training program. “Félicitations!” to Pastor Ali Soumaila, Pastor Henri Odjo and Pastor Hassane Koma.

Sheep Tales Update

The past several weeks, Richelle and Sam have been working intensely, a couple of hours each day, trying to complete the script writing portion of this project. Richelle’s trip to the States last fall, coupled with Sam’s vacation to visit friends and supporters in the US these next few months has made this a challenge. Richelle is now trying to get the last bits of translating and script adaptations set up so that when Sam returns in June, they can finish as much as possible… Lord willing, that will be the remaining 3 stories.

In the Studio

One of the most enjoyable parts of recording at the studio is receiving and working with some of the local church choirs. …But… things can get a little confusing sometimes as there is no written music. Everyone plays and sings by ear. Thankfully, at least the words to the songs are usually written down… most of the time! Each choir brings its own particular personality and style, and usually lots of energy and team spirit. We are now recording an album which includes a couple of songs in Yoruba. This language is prevalent in northern Nigeria and Benin, as well as here in Niger’s capital city of Niamey.

Ladies’ Bible Study

Richelle has resumed teaching the Ladies’ Bible study at church – a series on Encountering Jesus in the book of John. She loves the time of fellowship and learning with this group of anywhere from 3 to 8 ladies. Finding ways to make each study practical and memorable to this group of primarily illiterate women is always a challenge, but we can see where Richelle’s training and experience as a special educator comes in handy. Please pray that these studies will help the women come to know their Savior more intimately.

French School In-Service

One of the things Richelle and the French School Committee feel is an important step to help the teachers at the school is providing them with in-service training, particularly in the area of classroom management and discipline. We were able to arrange an initial training session during the month of March and are working on a second one for the end of April. The teachers seem appreciative of these efforts, and are excited and open to trying new ideas that will help them become more effective in the classroom.

“Le Vernissage”

After groups record an album at the studio, they often have a dedication and “premiere” of their album. Below, we have a copy of our invitation to one of these special events.

…And the Latest on the Kids

Thankfully, everyone is healthy and growing! They’ve been enjoying time at the pool, now that it is finally hot enough that they are no longer freezing!

Brendan is enjoying his spring vacation and had mostly A’s on his report card. He went to Parc W with his class for an outing a few weeks back – got to see several different animals and enjoyed some academics in a very different setting.

Rebekah Joy continues to work on things here at the house. Not only is she an accomplished cook, but her ironing and sewing skills are improving and she’s researching horses as a school project. She also continues with her equestrian lessons, which she loves. A few weeks back, she took the Stanford Achievement Tests – so soon we will know what other things we need to highlight before she starts “English” school in the States next year.

Nadia, Anna and Victoria are all doing well at Ecole Alliance. Nadia’s grades are excellent and she is beginning to prepare for the exam required at the end of primary school… a year early, since we will be in the States next year. She was also elected by her classmates as the student who best demonstrates both gentleness and humility. We are very proud of her.

Anna works diligently and her grades reflect her endeavors. Everyone always appreciates her attitude, effort, and sweet smile. She has informed us that she is going to be a rancher when she grows up… because ranchers work with horses. No surprise there!

Victoria finds school easy – is reading quite well in French and essentially teaching herself to read in English. She is getting taller and it is commonly said that she’s the only one that resembles Richelle and her side of the family. She insists she is going to be a saxophone player when she grows up, and we can’t wait!

Jonathan continues home school, and is an eager student. His enthusiasm is simply contagious. His favorite things include telling time, coloring, learning about animals and the world around him, and memorizing Bible verses. Any day now, he’s going to start swimming all over the pool… hopefully.

Elsie Mae is her sweet, stubborn self. She is starting to try and talk more, although we must continually remind her to use her words. She loves to play with her baby dolls, pretending to mother them by mimicking the things she sees Richelle doing with Mary.

And Mary Michelle is growing like a weed. We can already tell she has a go-getter personality! She can roll from her back to her tummy, is spinning on her tummy to look where she wants, while cooing and “talking” nonstop. When she is happy, she is very happy, but when she isn’t, she isn’t shy about letting us know.

We covet your prayers as we prepare our gang for the huge transition to life in the States.

~Jonathan and Tim chatting with Grandpa Gene via Yahoo Messenger Voice Chat Sunday night after church.~

Thankful to be serving our Lord together with you,

Tim, Richelle,

Brendan, Rebekah Joy,

Nadia, Anna, Victoria,

Jonathan, Elsie Mae

& Mary Michelle Wright

Life in Niger

Friends of ours, also working in the city, wrote this. I thought you might find it interesting, as things like this are so common place...

Tamajeq group recently recording at the studio

Encountering Jesus ~ Healing at the Pools of Bethesda

If you are interested, check out our this link to read about what Richelle and the ladies at church studied at their most recent Ladies' Bible study.

February 2009

Now the name of the man was Nabal,

and the name of his wife Abigail;

and she was a woman of good understanding,

and of a beautiful countenance:

but the man was churlish and evil in his doings….

one of the young men told Abigail,

Nabal's wife, saying,

"Behold, David sent messengers

out of the wilderness to salute our master;

and he railed on them.

But the men were very good unto us,

and we were not hurt,

neither missed we anything,

as long as we were conversant with them,

when we were in the fields:

They were a wall unto us both by night and day,

all the while we were with them keeping the sheep.

Now therefore know and consider what thou wilt do;

for evil is determined against our master,

and against all his household:

for he is such a son of Belial,

that a man cannot speak to him.

Then Abigail made haste...

I Samuel 25. 3, 14-18a

Richelle recently studied the story of Abigail, Nabal and David with a group of girls from Sahel Academy; probably the thing that stood out most in this passage was the "uncharacteristic-ness" of David's behavior. In the preceding chapter, David is hiding in the back of a cave, where Saul stops to rest. While Saul is sleeping, David cuts a tiny piece from his robe and then later uses that bit of material when he confronts Saul. In the following chapter, David and one of his soldiers sneak into Saul's camp and again find him sleeping. This time they take his spear and water jug which David shows Saul later as proof that David means no harm to Saul. In both of these cases, David has opportunity to kill Saul, the man who is chasing him around the countryside, trying to take his life. Yet he shows considerable restraint and wisdom. Why is it in this chapter that when he is insulted by Nabal, and provisions are refused, he decides to take vengeance into his own hands, planning to march immediately on Nabal and his household to destroy everything and everyone?

Maybe he reacted so vehemently because he was grieving Samuel's death… or because he was tired after a time in the desert… or he was not just defending his own honor, but the mistreatment of the young men he sent to Nabal… or some combination of all of these things made this the straw that broke the camel's back. But is clear that David was intent on seeking revenge and had God not prompted Abigail to wisely intervene, a catastrophe would have ensued. Several innocent people (including Abigail) would have died and the reputation and testimony of the Lord's anointed would have been tarnished. God's kindness was evident to all, and his name was glorified through this incident.

We feel a little like David might have felt right before he was told of Nabal's insult. We are coming to the end of a four year term and are busy making preparations for a year's absence from the different ministries in which we are involved. We also have many projects to finish before we head back to the States. We are tired after 3 challenging months of separation. And, since Richelle and kids arrived, we feel as though we've been running at light speed, and still aren't keeping up. Thus, it is easy in this present stressful time to over-react to situations that might not normally phase us… and in so doing damage our testimonies and/or lead others to think poorly of the God we are here to serve.

We are thankful for the "Abigails" in our lives, people like you who people who respond when the Lord brings us to mind, who share a Scripture or even just a smile at just the right time, who send emails and letters of encouragement, who faithfully pray for our family and God's work in Niger, for unexpected financial gifts that give us a little bit of margin or allow us to respond to some of the many demands for help that come to our front gate. We are thankful for all of you.

It has been an incredibly busy four weeks. Richelle traveled back with three sick children, including Mary Michelle who ended up in one of the local clinics for a series of oxygen and respiratory therapy treatments. She is doing well now, although we are all struggling with sinus/throat problems and colds as a result of the current heavy Harmattan winds. The temperature is also beginning to creep up as hot season approaches. Sometimes it is hard to know what is worse – the actual living through hot season or the anticipation of the oppressive heat soon to arrive.

Tim and Richelle (with Mary as a tag-along) were able to participate in a "Sharpening Your Interpersonal Skills" workshop which was offered by West Africa's Mobile Member Care Team. Since relationships are key to effective ministry, we appreciated greatly the timely instruction and practice we received during this week long module, including topics such as "Helping Others Solve Problems," "Receiving Confrontation Well," "Living in Community," and "Managing Conflict Well." What was particularly interesting, informative and challenging was the input from Nigerien participants as they contributed to the discussions and role plays from their cultural perspectives.

After setting aside a full week for this workshop, Tim has been busy catching up in the studio. He's still trying to finish the different music albums currently in progress. Campus Crusade rented the studio to record the audio for the Jesus film in the Manga language. Tim is discussing with a local group of Christian voice actors who have been recording at the studio the possibility of their group continuing work on the Sheep Tales project while we are on furlough. Richelle is working with Sam Djibo for 1-2 hours most days, trying to complete the script translations and adaptations, as Sam will be leaving for a 3 month visit to the States in March. The tape duplicators at the studio have also been busily working as cassettes are prepared for distribution. The completed "Way of Righteousness" programs in Tamashek are also ready to be aired.

Please pray for the French School – for a God-inspired spirit of unity among staff and the missionaries who work in this ministry and for His protection of this work. Recent events have made it very clear that this ministry is under spiritual attack. On top of that, we've legally had to make some policy changes and are trying to work with the teachers and school administration as they have to apply these changes daily, in the classroom. Sometimes good communication is challenging because of cultural differences – and we think that necessary information has been clearly shared and discussed only to find out later that it was interpreted in a completely different way. We are finding humility and sensitivity to the Holy Spirit so necessary as we try to understand the struggles, concerns and requests of the staff, all of which tend to be communicated indirectly. We are also seeing firsthand that decisions tend to be made as a group and thus people are often unwilling to discuss issues until they first know where the rest of their group stands on those issues. We need to be sensitive to realities like these, or we end up perceiving our Nigerien colleagues as less than honest and uncooperative while they perceive us as discourteous and indifferent to their challenges.

Other Praises…

• We are so thankful and just delighted to be all together again.
• We are also thanking the Lord for His kindness demonstrated to our family on both sides of the Atlantic by His people while we walked through this time apart. We've felt so loved and cared for by God's people, and we are both humbled and honored by how people demonstrated their love and care.
• We are praising the Lord for the provision of someone to work in the Field office and handle finances while we are home on furlough. This removes a huge burden from the shoulders of the missionaries who are still here.

…and Petitions~

• Pray for the French School ministry.
• Steve and Julie Nunemaker will be here teaching a Tri-M Module as well an IBBS class during the month of March.
• Please remember to pray for safety and political security here in the country of Niger.
• Throughout this term, Tim has traveled on a monthly basis to a group of churches down in the Gourmantché region of the country, near the Burkina Faso border, to preach and encourage these churches. In both Beneira and Boancada, he has been working through the Firm Foundations material – chronological Bible teaching – to help build a solid and firm knowledge of the Bible. At Panchango, he has focused on the life of Christ per their request. As we prepare to leave for a year of furlough, we, as the Niger Field, need to decide how to continue to encourage this group of faithful believers whom God is so mightily using in their little part of the world.
• Tim is really starting to have to decline requests for projects at the studio in preparation for our furlough. This is hard and sometimes stressful as people come to him with excellent ideas and can be quite insistent.
• Richelle is looking forward to resuming her monthly Bible studies with the ladies at our church. Pray for wisdom in scheduling, good attendance and for the preparation of lessons for this delightful group of mostly illiterate women.
• Richelle is also anticipating helping with the swimming physical education program at Sahel Academy in April and/or May.
• We need to make plans regarding our house. We are hoping and praying that we can find someone to sublease our home for the year we are in the States. If not, we will have to pack everything up and completely move out… and also find a new place when we return in the summer of 2010. We are very happy in our present home, so are praying that the Lord provides.
• We are still scheduling meetings with churches and supporters. Some of you have contacted us and we are still waiting for an official school calendar for next year before we set exact dates – but we haven't forgotten you. Please don't hesitate to contact us if you'd like to see us. We are looking forward to visiting with many of you while we are home.

Thankful to be serving the Savior together with you (and happy to be back together again),

Tim, Richelle, Brendan,

Rebekah Joy, Nadia, Anna, Victoria,

Jonathan, Elsie Mae and Mary Michelle Wright

--------------------

Painting at the begininng of this post - "Abigaïl donnant des pains à David," by Louis le Jeune BOULLOGNE, Paris, 1654, displayed at the Louvre, Paris.

A Question of Culture... or Not?

As I shared the other day, one of the most challenging and most interesting part of our lives here in Niger is learning how to relate to others who come from a cultural background totally different than the one in which we grew up. We step off the plane here to find that many of the rules that have worked so well all of our lives in relating to and with others all of the sudden don't work any more. We think we are communicating only to find out we haven't or that in fact we've inadvertently offended or completely lost face and didn't even have a clue. Some of those things are easy to fix... Don't use your left hand when giving someone something... Cover your head in church... You can hold hands with your same sex friends while out in public, but husbands and wives don't... Always take time to greet people, even when you are in a hurry... Don't look an older person directly in the eyes when addressing them... On-time is actually early...

That's a big part of the reason I started reading the book: Cross Cultural Conflict - Building Relationships for Effective Ministry by Duane Elmer. I'd mentioned the other day that I wanted to share a bit more from the book, a different look at a familiar Bible story but seen through a different cultural lens. Again, I'm quoting directly from the book.

"The following story raises questions about the difference between deception and a culturally acceptable strategy: The first chapter of exodus tells us that a new king 'who did not know Joseph' (vs. 8) came to power in Egypt. The king looked around the land and noticed that 'the Israelites have become much too numerous for us' (v. 9). A plan was crafted to decrease the Israelite population. Part of the plan involved two Hebrew midwives, Shiphrah and Puah, who were instructed to kill each Hebrew boy at birth but allow the girl babies to live."

"The midwives feared God and 'did not do what the king of Egypt told them to do' (v. 17). Eventually the king called the two women in and asked them why they had been letting the male babies live. They responded, 'Hebrew women are not like Egyptian women; they are vigorous and give birth before the midwives arrive' (v. 19)."

"In this brief story that sets the scene for Moses' birth, we have a serious conflict of interests and, in a larger sense, a conflict between the forces of good and the forces of evil. The Hebrew midwives used several strategies in maganging this conflict: silence (they did not reply to the king's request), inaction (they did not do as he had commanded) and misdirection/diversion (they placed the blame elsewhere - on the Hebrew women who gave birth before they could arrive)."

"Western Christians are both pleased and troubled by this story. They would affirm the women for choosing not to obey the king because they feared God. Some are troubled, however, that the midwives remained silent before the king and did not 'speak the truth' of their convictions and tell him outright that they would not obey. Perhaps most troubling is the blatant, self-serving 'lie' the midwives told regarding the Hebrew women's delivering the children before they arrived."

"Adding to our confusion are the words immediately following, in which God reveals his commentary on the series of events: 'So God was kind to the midwies' (v. 20). God seems to have approved (at least he did not judge or condemn) the silence and the 'lie.' Perhaps these tactics were understood differently than we understand them and need to be further understood so we can see them as God does..."

"...Two-Thirds World people may use inaction, silence, misdirection and the indefinite third party as a means of handling conflict situations. to the Westerner such strategies may appear at times ethically questionalbe; but that may not necessarily be the case. we must understand what lying and deception are in that particular culture and weigh that against Scripture. The bible does not overtly condemn these indirect strategies; in several situations it seems to support their use."

"Bringing a cultural practice under the authority of Scripture is not Westerners' exclusive responsiblity. All of us are prone to interpret the Bible through our cultural lenses and to mingle our won cultural preferences with biblical teaching. Christians from various cultures would serve one another and the cause of biblical interpretation by joining in prayer and discussion on these matters." (pp. 129-130, 133)

Any thoughts on this? What do you think?

'Tis Always Interesting, Living in Another Culture

I'm reading a fascinating book right now. It is called Cross-Cultural Conflict - Building Relationships for Effective Ministry and was written by Duane Elmer. I'd like to share a few paragraphs - partly because it is so much of what I've been living the past month as I seek to work with our French School ministry (We interviewed a new teacher on Friday afternoon, who verbally accepted the position... but then she did not show up for work Monday morning), but also because I find it fascinating. It is so easy for us to think that our home culture is the best/only/biblical way to handle different situations. It is unsettling (in both good and bad ways) to begin realizing that not be the case...

When a person cannot fulfill certain obligations, she or he fears loss of face. The person needing to save face leads the other person to believe that the blame is not her or his own. When this happens in the West, we call it "scapegoating," the placing of blame somewhere else when it is primarily our own fault. In other parts of the world, however, the strategy of "misdirection," "deflection" or "divirsion" is a finely honed art. Instead of accepting the responsiblity for some problem, one directs, deflects or diverts the blame elsewhere... Here is how is worked out in the purchase of a lamp.

A foreigner working in the country purchased a large desk lamp from a Chinese merchant. The delivery was promised for the next afternoon. When the foreigner called wondering why the lamp had not been delivered, he was told that the delivery man was sick and the delivery might be in a few days.

When the foreigner said he would be willing to come by and pick it up in person, the manager said that unfortunately there were some workman nearby repairing the water lines, and the road was most difficult to travel. When asked how serious the delivery man's condition was, the manager said that actually it was the delivery man's sister who was sick, and he was at her bedside. The truth of the matter was that the lamp was out of stock, however the shop manager was embarrassed, or thought it would be a loss of face, to say that. He was trying to stall for time until he could receive delivery of the appropriate lamp from his wholesaler, and the fact that the customer could not infer this from his comments was most surpising.

The merchant wanted to provide efficient service and please the customer. Saying, "No, I cannot deliver the lamp tomorrow" would have disappointed the customer, something all merchants wish to avoid, especially in a "face" or shame culture. The foreigner would have preferred a direct, honest answer, even if the bad news was that he would have to wait a few more days. Again, both were operating from their own cultural norms.

Suppose you were in the same situation. Knowing what you know now, what would you do if there was no urgency in having the lamp delivered? On the other hand, waht if you very much needed the lamp delivered tomorrow because of a special even at your house?...

If there was no urgency, you might wait an extra day and then call again and gently inquire. Getting the message about the sickness, you might assume that the lamp was going to arrive, but not at the specified time. You would not assume deliberate deception or malice.

If it was urgent that the lamp arrive the next day, you might (before purchasing it) say how important it is to have the lamp delivered tomorrow. If it does not arrive, your embarrassment will be great because of the important friends you are expecting. Besides, your friends will want to know where you purchased such a beautiful lamp.

Now the merchant realizes he might cause you loss of face if the delivery is not made. Understanding the situation, he may (1) suggest that you purchase another lamp (meaning the one he has in stock and can deliver at the stated time), (2) offer the use of the floor model until a new lamp can be obtained from the warehouse or (3) try a face-saving way of escap such as "I think this is the perfect lamp for you, but my driver is sick and may not be able to make the delivery."

Westerners prefer direct forms of communication and are not good at reading between the lines. Yet in most cultures the people are masters at indirect speech, and one must become accustomed to it if one is to survive and prosper in the Two-Thirds World.... (p. 116-118)

Interesting, isn't it? And it is often confusing. What seems like an out and out lie from my cultural perspective is no more serious than me saying to someone, "We need to have you over for dinner...," and then never following through with a definite invitation. Or, it could be like when someone asks you if you like the way they've redecorated their living room and you respond, "Oh it looks nice," even if you don't particularly like it. It is the cultural way of preserving relationship and everyone here understands that (i.e., the purpose is not deception, but instead an effort to keep the relationship intact and allow everyone to keep face) - except for those of us originally from a "western" culture. This same book takes an interesting look at the two midwives who did not follow Pharaoh's directive in killing the Hebrew baby boys when they were born. Maybe I'll share what is said about that tomorrow!

So... What do you think?

A Wright Christmas, December 2008

The Mysterious Wonderland of Forgiveness

Purge me with hyssop, and I shall be clean:

wash me, and I shall be whiter than snow.

Ps 51:7

Come now, and let us reason together, saith the LORD:

though your sins be as scarlet,

they shall be as white as snow…

Isaiah 1:18a

Richelle and kids have been in the States for 2 months now; they have enjoyed first the fall weather, and now, are being treated to a full dose of winter. It seems as though another snowstorm along with several inches of snow arrives every two or three days. While Tim and the gang that remained in Niger aren’t too upset on missing out on the accompanying bitter cold, they are, however, missing these occasions to enjoy the snow.

Walking outside after a fresh snowfall is a breathtaking experience. The snow insulates everything in peaceful silence, covering the death, dirt and brown of late fall in a layer of sparkling white that reflects with an almost painful brilliance the sunshine. The two Scripture verses above, comparing the forgiveness and acceptance Christ offers through His birth, life, death on the cross and resurrection to that image of purity, have fresh meaning as we celebrate the forever mystery of the incarnation of Christ. The following words to a “new to us” Christmas song expresses eloquently this incomprehensible truth, for which we are inexpressibly thankful as our family celebrates Christmas in a very different way this year.

Mystery, how He came

To be a man

But greater still

How His death was in His plan

God predestined that His Son would die

And He still created man

Oh, what love is this

That His death was in His hands

(from the song “Mystery” by Todd and Angie Smith)

Studio Happenings

Tim has continued to be very busy with work and ministry at both the studio and the office, even as he been the parent to the four children who remained in Niger with him. The kids have been real troopers, too – accompanying their dad to the studio as well as an album dedication and a few other events over the past few months. We are also indebted to friends who helped the girls with homework while Tim was working, invited the gang over for activities or meals, or who included them in special occasions.

In the past two months, they have finished a music album and saw it dedicated. God’s Story in the Fulfulde language has been recorded, edited and submitted. God’s grace was evident during this more intense week of recording as the voice actor, Billo, had been suffering from vision problems and severe headaches. Several Christmas and holiday themed programs have been produced and played on the local and government radio stations where EBM’s regular programming is broadcast. Some of you remember to pray each year for wisdom and creativity as those programs are prepared – now please pray that seeds sown will grow and bear eternal fruit. God’s protection and grace was also powerfully manifested in the life of our studio apprentice. He was recently in a motorcycle accident while taking his little sister to school. Both he and his sister received some nasty scrapes and bruises, but were able to recover at home and are back to full strength. Another huge answer to prayer has been that a portion of the funding for the Hot Wire generator project (seeking funding for a much needed hook-up to a generator which will then enable the studio to continue operating during the numerous power cuts and outages) has been received, and Tim has been able to begin taking steps towards initiating that project.

Thankfully Announcing … Our New Arrival…

French School Happenings

Richelle, in addition to home schooling, and having a baby, has continued to help with administrative details at the French School via email correspondence with the school’s director. There are approximately 570 students enrolled in 12 different classes this year. Please continue to pray for the ministry of this school, for interpersonal relationships and unity among the staff, for wisdom as they face some new regulations regarding classroom management, for the director who has a heavy load to carry and for the need to find someone who can work alongside him as an assistant principal. A few of our teachers are struggling with some more serious health issues, too, so please remember them in your prayers.

Family Happenings

Brendan is in eighth grade at Sahel Academy this year, has grown taller than his mother and is our first teenager. So far, we are really enjoying this adventure of parenting a teen (although we are, admittedly, still rookies). He is a good student, as long as he is taking his work seriously! He played softball in the annual tournament held each year in Niamey, trying out for the position of pitcher. He is a great big brother, and Jonathan has been missing him dreadfully these past few months. Brendan has also been caring for a new bird of prey these past few months - a Lanner falcon – as well as helping his dad and sisters in a poultry raising project our family began late last spring.

Rebekah Joy completed the CM2 class at Ecole Alliance in June, succeeded in passing her exams, and is home schooling this year (although she has had a long Christmas vacation with the arrival of a new little sister in early December). She is becoming quite an accomplished cook and bread maker even though she prefers making cookies. Before returning to the States in October, she began taking horseback riding lessons at the Equestrian Club in Niamey and is looking forward to resuming those in January. She has enjoyed playing basketball with the team at the school she will be attending while on furlough next year. It is hard to believe that in just a few short months, we will have two students in secondary school!

Nadia has had to be the big sister these past few months, helping out a little more than she has had to in the past. She continues at Ecole Alliance, and is presently in the class of CM1. Her teacher is pleased with her progress and her attitude in class. We are praying about whether or not she will take the French exams before we return to the States for our furlough next summer. She has also enjoyed helping raise the chickens and doesn’t mind eating the eggs – although she refused to eat an actual chicken recently.

Anna continues to make excellent progress in school. Although her French abilities still have much room for improvement, her confidence and willingness to participate in class continue to grow. She loves to go and watch Rebekah’s horseback riding lessons and can’t wait until it is her opportunity to have lessons herself. She has almost caught up with Nadia in height and is one of our more athletic children. She is learning more about responsibility and helping with chores and tasks around the house as well as helping to feed and water the chickens. We think she may need glasses, and are hoping to take care of that in the next few weeks.

Victoria has made an excellent adjustment from kindergarten to primary school. And although she can be a complainer, she is a good student and is doing quite well, especially with her French reading skills. She is excited about her new bike that she received as a Christmas present this year and is waiting anxiously for the return of her mama and other siblings in late January.

Jonathan continues to be a delight in so many ways. He is enthusiastic, loveable and lives each moment to the fullest. He is also an affectionate little guy who just loves people and making others smile. He is doing very well with his home school work, working through a kindergarten level curriculum even though he just turned 4 this month. Everyone who remembers Tim as a little boy says that Jonathan is just like his daddy – a comment we’ve heard frequently since arriving back in Midland. Please continue to pray for his speech development and diligence for Richelle as she works with him in this area.

Elsie Mae is a sweet two year old with the most adorable and mischievous smile. She is missing time with her daddy, but has adjusted well to her role as a big sister. She adores Mary Michelle and loves to help with – changing diapers, bringing clothes, putting clothes away, rocking her car seat when Mary is crying, and numerous other little things. She has also loved getting to know her cousins (again). It is amazing how grown-up she seems, now that there is an even littler one in the family.

Mary Michelle is now almost a month old – and the time is flying by. It is fun to have a newborn in the house again – and we are looking forward to the opportunity to introduce her to the rest of her family in a few short weeks. She is an alert baby and seems to enjoy the commotion that is always a part of our lives. She also causes quite a stir whenever people meet her for the first time due to her petite features and size yet full head of silvery blond hair (it looks like we’ve taken her to the salon for highlights – seriously).

Throughout the coming year,

may you be able to comprehend with all saints

what is the breadth, and length,

and depth, & height,…

and to know the love of Christ,

which passeth knowledge…

Celebrating His love,
Tim, Richelle, Brendan, Rebekah Joy, Nadia, Anna, Victoria, Jonathan, Elsie Mae and Mary Michelle Wright

---18 décembre 2008 --- Happy 50th Birthday, Niger! ---

18 décembre 1958 ~ 18 décembre 2008

Célébrons les 50 ans de la République!

According to Tim and the kids, it is starting to look like Christmas... in Niger, even. But it is not in honor of Christ's birth. Instead, on December 18th, Niger will be celebrating 50 years of indpendance. People have been busy "sprucing" up the city, cleaning the trash, repainting... even hearing rumors of several traffic signals that are working once again. The girls claim it feels a little bit like Christmas because there are lights strung about town, at the round points and other high traffic places. They've even set up billboards, reminding folks why they are celebrating.

Current Events in Niger

AIR MOUNTAINS, Niger: Until last year, the only trigger Amoumoun Halil had pulled was the one on his livestock-vaccination gun. This spring, a battered Kalashnikov rifle rested uneasily on his shoulder. When he donned his stiff fatigues, his lopsided gait and smiling eyes stood out among his hard-faced guerrilla brethren.

Halil, a 40-year-old veterinary engineer, was a reluctant soldier in a rebellion that had broken out over an improbable — and as yet unrealized — bonanza in one of the world's poorest countries.

A battle is unfolding on the stark mountains and scalloped dunes of northern Niger...

-----------------------

To read the rest of this article by Lydia Polgreen in the "International Herald Tribune," please follow the link below.

(photo by Johan Spanner for The New York Times)

"Battle in a Poor Land for Riches Beneath the Soil"

Click here for more pictures.

Thanking God ... We Have it in Hand!

This is a huge answer to prayer, and we want to thank all of you who joined us in praying for a smooth and rapid application process for Mary Michelle's passport...

...as her passport arrived in the mail on Thursday. I'm finding it hard to believe after some of our other nightmarish applications for newborns - but am overjoyed! We know this is 100% due to the graciousness of our God, and also because so many have joined us in praying that we wouldn't run into problems or delays as we went through this process.

There are so many ways we've seen God's hand, even in this little detail:

1. One of the county clerk employees told me exactly what to do so that I was able to get her birth certificate after only 3 days instead of the normal 3-4 weeks that all the hospital paperwork tells you to expect.
2. When we went to the US Post Office for her passport photos, the man taking photos that day was a friend of ours from one of our supporting churches, and the Post Office staff were very kind and patient as we worked for nearly 45 mintues to get a photo of Mary Michelle with eyes mostly open and both ears visible.
3. There were NO lines in the different offices, so we were able to keep moving right along.
4. Her expedited passport arrived in less than half the time expected (with the added bonus of her social security card also arriving - they told us 6-8 weeks before we should expect that!).

Now, we just need to take care of her plane tickets and Niger visa. After 45 minutes on hold with Air France yesterday, I had to give up for the moment - but will be listening to their really strange "on hold" music again today when I call to add a lap child to our traveling reservations. It is so exciting and relieving - all at the same time - to see these little, but very important details being cared for by our God!

Thanks for those prayers... and keep on praying!

God's Story - A Recent Recording Project

Tim has the privilege of working with sister organizations on different studio projects, and the God's Story recordings (he's done several this past term) have been that type of project.

The God's Story video, "...[an] 80-minute video,... From Creation To Eternity, presents the Bible from Genesis to Revelation. Throughout the Old and New Testaments, this panorama of the Scriptures highlights God's plan to rescue fallen mankind," and is a tool designed to present the message of the Bible, primarily to illiterate populations.

At the studio, Tim and a few others have recently finished recording the audio for another God's Story project. He was working with folks from another mission organization in Niger, and we wanted to link you over to their site. It gives you a little different perspective of how the God is using the studio to further His work in West Africa.

TESTING THE TEXT

TRAINING THE NARRATOR

IN THE STUDIO

RECORDING IS FINISHED!

Take a few minutes to check out these links over at "Life in Niger." Tim's presence in the studio helps make these sorts of projects possible in Niger, as well as in other locations in W. Africa.

Announcing -

Niger's Response to Election Day in the USA

"The USA astonishes the world."

President Barak Obama, Historic Victory

"The American Dream of Luther King and Kennedy Becomes Reality"

&

"The Shockwave of Victory Touches the Four Corners of the World"

...These were the headlines in Niger after the presidential election this past week.

Photo from another cassette tape distribution.

October 2008 Prayer Letter

At the same time came the disciples

unto Jesus, saying, "Who is greatest

in the kingdom of heaven?"

And Jesus called a little child

unto Him and set him

in the midst of them, and said,

Verily I say unto you, except ye be

converted, and become as

little children, ye shall not enter

the kingdom of heaven.

Whosoever therefore shall humble

himself as this little child, the same

is greatest

in the kingdom of heaven.

And whoso shall receive one such

child in my name

receiveth me.

But whoso shall offend one of

these little ones which believe

in me, it were better for him

that a millstone were hanged

about his neck and that he were

drowned in the depth of the sea.

Matthew 18:1-6

School is in session, once again! Classes began October 6 at EBM's French School, with approximately 550 students enrolled (although that number had not yet been finalized). We hope you enjoyed reading the above quotes from the staff employed and ministering at the school. While there are still many ways we are working to see this school become the very best it can be, it is a privilege and a challenge to work with people who have the goals stated above, people who have a glimpse of what the Lord envisions for this school – what He wants to accomplish through the ministry of this school. We are devoting a bit of space to the school in this letter – as we want to be sure that those who are a part of our ministry support team do not have any misconceptions regarding the school.

The school is an elementary school, with children in the grade equivalents of kindergarten through 6th grade. The students begin each day with prayer and a "moral education" class, in which they are taught about Jesus and the Bible, memorize Bible verses and sing many of the same Sunday School songs you'd hear in a church in the States. Then, they follow the state mandated curriculum and class schedule the rest of the day. Several of the teachers have been taking classes offered by the local association of Christian teachers, gaining skills and ideas about how to present a Biblical world view, even while using the state curriculum. At the same time, they must walk the fine line of obeying government authorities, fulfilling state requirements and avoiding problems for the school while continually seeking opportunities to share their faith. A private school in Niger is not the same thing as a private school in the States; in fact, private schools are often subject to more rigorous scrutiny from the Ministry of Education and are required to meet a higher standard than are the public schools. Niger, following the example of Europe, is moving towards a more and more secularized curriculum, so pray that the Lord continues to keep this window of opportunity to share the Gospel, open.

The school currently has the following goals:

1. Boldly and unashamedly share the Gospel message in the hope that the Holy Spirit softens the hearts of students, that seeds will be planted and that many students will eventually chose Jesus as their personal Savior.
2. Provide a quality education for our students that will prepare them for the future, whatever that future might be.
3. Tangibly live such a spirit of love and unity that the Lord's presence at the school is unmistakable.
4. All personnel will grow personally, professionally and spiritually.
5. Create, by the grace of God, an atmosphere that leads to good communication, respectful and honest, so that the school staff and mission personnel understand and appreciate each other.
6. Bring glory to our God through all that takes place at the school.
   

As you pray for the school, please remember to keep these goals, as well as the unique challenges our school personnel face, in mind.

If possible, Tim has been even busier at the studio than he was last month. If you were to walk in at any given time to see what is going on, it is not unusual to find someone busy in the video editing suite, folks recording in the studio and more editing going on in the control room. Current projects include:

• Recording "The Way of Righteousness" in the Fulfulde language;
• Recording a radio series titled "The Ten Commandments;"
• Finalizing the finishing details on two musical albums;
• Post-dubbing an evangelistic film in the Tamashek language;
• Editing training videos for "The Baba Method," a French Christian phonics curriculum the Christian teacher's association is hoping to use in their schools; and
• Coming up in November, the recording of "God's Story" in Fulfulde.

A couple of other studio details include the recently completed new entrance to the Mission compound. This new entry way allows studio traffic to avoid passing through the school grounds, ensuring safety for the students and avoiding any disruptions for classes that are in session. And, as our second (fortunately shorter) hot season is now in full swing, Tim has been relying on the little generator to keep the studio in operation due to the frequent electric cuts. We know of a few gifts that have been given for the "Hotwire Generator Project;" but once again, we cannot adequately tell you how much hooking into this other generator will improve the function of the studio and increase the quality of all studio productions. And on a final studio note – please pray for Tim's studio schedule over the next three months. With Richelle's return to the States, he needs to be wise and careful about scheduling his time, as he will also need to be a full-time daddy for our children remaining in Niger with him. Setting boundaries and saying no to people is never easy; it is especially complicated here when culturally, family time does not have the same priority or value, and there is always the philosophy of, "It never hurts to ask… they might say yes." For those with the spiritual gift of service and who desire to please – this can be especially difficult. So we would ask you to pray that Tim is able to guard family time while still fulfilling his studio and office responsibilities.

And that brings us to the last thing. Richelle, Rebekah Joy, Jonathan and Elsie Mae leave on October 19th to fly back to the States. Please pray for them as they travel. Richelle is definitely feeling 31-32 weeks pregnant, is tired from a very busy schedule in recent weeks, and this trip is never easy (especially when traveling with small children) – even under the best of circumstances. Pray that Rebekah will be a good helper, and that their travel will be uneventful. We are all dreading this time of separation, but are confident that this is God's path for our family during this season, and that He will be walking with (or carrying) us these next few months. Pray for final details that need to be arranged, paperwork that will need to be completed after the baby's arrival (passport, visa), as well as safety and health for all of us.

Thankful to be serving the Savior together with you,

Tim, Richelle, Brendan, Rebekah Joy, Nadia, Anna, Victoria,
Jonathan, Elsie Mae and ??? Wright

Septemer 30, 2008 - Prayer for the Thirtieth Day of Ramadan

30-Days of Prayer for the Muslim World

Ramadan 2008 / 1429: September 01 - September 30

Ahmedabad, India

Economically marginalized Muslims in Gujarat State

For Tuesday 30 September, Ramadan 2008.

"Loving Muslims Through Prayer"

More than one million economically marginalised Muslims live in the city. Often jobless or underemployed and unable to return to their villages, many live on by sheer force of will. They survive in the ghettos and slums and even the progressive Muslim elite now feel the segregation and the economic disparities with the Hindus. This profound human suffering does not have easy solutions.

As believers in Jesus, we acknowledge that the greatest need of the Muslims is Christ. Yet an extremely small amount of evangelistic work in Gujarat focuses on the unreached Muslim peoples of Ahmedabad which include the: Shaikh, Bohra, Memon, Khoja, Pathan and the Sayyid. Most local followers of Jesus openly acknowledge they are afraid to reach out into the Muslim community. Imagine over one million people in Ahmedabad who have practically no Gospel witness. Pray for labourers to bring the Gospel of hope to the Muslims of Gujarat.

[Full Text]

Prayer Starters:

• Pray that Muslims will realise their inability to meet the demands of God’s perfect law.
• May the true fear of God come upon the Muslims (Proverbs 1:7).
• Ask God to increasingly establish faithful followers of Jesus among the Muslims of Gujarat State so they might be examples of godliness and bearers of hope in difficult situations.

+ Google Map Link: Ahmedabad, Gujarat State, Western India

+ YouTube Video Link: Ahmedabad Live In Action - 2/2 [4:42]

+ Gospel Language Link: Hear the Good News in the GUJARATI language

September 29, 2008 - Prayer for the Twenty-ninth Day of Ramadan

30-Days of Prayer for the Muslim World

Ramadan 2008 / 1429: September 01 - September 30

Suriname

A country of vast diversity

For Monday 29 September, Ramadan 2008.

"Loving Muslims Through Prayer"

Suriname (formerly Dutch Guyana) is a small Republic on the northeast coast of South America, 80% of which is tropical rain forest. It is not unusual to see monkeys traversing the trees and boa constrictors crossing well travelled roads.

Suriname has an amazing mix of peoples, languages and religions. Religious affiliation is also quite varied: Hindu 27.4%, Protestant 25.2% (predominantly Moravian), Roman Catholic 22.8%, Muslim 19.6%, indigenous beliefs 5%. In the capital Paramaribo, a mosque, a Hindu temple, a church, a cathedral and a synagogue are all within walking distance of each other.

[Full Text]

Prayer Starters:

• There are several Christian denominations active in the country but the Gospel has been slow to take root among both Javanese and Hindustani Muslims. Pray that the Jesus film, and other media efforts can reach the Muslim population. The Jesus film has been extensively used in film showings and on television.
• Roughly a third of the population left for the Netherlands after independence. One of the first mosques in Netherlands was built in 1981 by Muslims immigrants from Suriname. Pray for the Surinamese Muslims in Holland to be touched by the Gospel.

+ Google Map Link: Suriname, South America

+ YouTube Video Link: Suriname Sights and Sounds [5:11]

+ Gospel Language Link: Hear Words of Life in the Sranan Tongo language

September 28, 2008 - Prayer for the Twenty-eighth Day of Ramadan

30-Days of Prayer for the Muslim World

Ramadan 2008 / 1429: September 01 - September 30

Comoros Islands

Proclaiming Christ is forbidden in the Comoros

For Sunday 28 September, Ramadan 2008.

"Loving Muslims Through Prayer"

Many years ago the Comoros Islands were known for their exports of perfume essences, as well as vanilla and cloves. Today, however, the Comoros are largely forgotten. The islands are poor and underdeveloped with high unemployment. Most people are subsistence farmers.

The Comorans are proud of their Islamic heritage, dating from the early 1500s, and Islam is the state religion. Harassment and social discrimination against the followers of Jesus is widespread and evangelism is illegal. The Bible is available in French and Arabic, and portions of the scriptures in Comoran. However, due to the low literacy rate (near 60%), Gospel recordings are more useful. Some Comorans have recently entered the Kingdom.

[Full Text]

Prayer Starters:

• Pray that the Gospel would be made available to all the families of the Comoros Islands (Genesis 12:1-3).
• Pray that Christian music, Bible stories and other radio broadcasts will gain an audience and touch many lives for Jesus.
• Pray against fear, witchcraft, curses, and interaction with jinn (evil spirits). The Comorans are bound by these practices. Only the stronger power of Jesus Christ can set them free (1 Peter 5:8, Matthew 10:28-30).

+ Google Map Link: Comoros Islands, East Africa

+ YouTube Video Link: UNICEF:Protecting children from sexual violence in Comoros [2:08]

+ Gospel Language Link: Hear the Good News in the Shindzawani language

September 27, 2008 - Prayer for the Twenty-seventh Day of Ramadan

30-Days of Prayer for the Muslim World

Ramadan 2008 / 1429: September 01 - September 30

SAT 7

A new TV-channel for the children of the Arab World

For Saturday 27 September, Ramadan 2008.

"Loving Muslims Through Prayer"

Arab children now have the opportunity to watch Christian programming at all times of the day. In December 2007, the SAT-7 network launched SAT-7 KIDS - a 24-hour Arabic satellite television channel for children. One hundred million children under the age of 15 live in the Arab world and at least half of them have access to satellite television.

On SAT-7 KIDS, children can see programs with messages of love, forgiveness and turning the other cheek. The channel is broadcasting cartoons, dramas, Bible stories, game shows and many kinds of programs about how to walk with the Lord. From the beginning, programs for children have been among the most popular of the wide variety of shows available on SAT-7.

[Full Text]

Prayer Starters:

• Pray for the children of the Arab world, that they may be blessed through watching SAT-7 KIDS.
• Pray the strong message of hope gets through to these kids who often are in seemingly hopeless situations. If you have children, engage them in this prayer time explaining some difficulties for Arab-world kids.
• Pray for inspiration and creativity for those actively working to make SAT-7 KIDS an attractive and helpful channel for followers of Jesus and Muslims alike.
• Pray for additional funding for SAT-7.

Video Link: View the SAT 7 God's Love video [03:45]

September 26, 2008 - Prayer for the Twenty-sixth Day of Ramadan

30-Days of Prayer for the Muslim World

Ramadan 2008 / 1429: September 01 - September 30

Pakistan

The Hindko speakers: one language, many tribes

For Friday 26 September, Ramadan 2008.

"Loving Muslims Through Prayer"

Possibly five million people in northern Pakistan are Hindko speakers. Made up of several ethnic groups, mostly Pathans and Moghuls, the Hindko are more of a language group than a people group.

Hindko speakers make their living as farmers or merchants in the foothills of the Himalayas. Corn and wheat are the most important crops. These grains are ground into flour and used to make a flat bread that accompanies every meal. The people lead very simple lives, but often go to great lengths to secure an education and a better future for their children. Only about 25% of Hindko speakers can read in any language.

[Full Text]

Prayer Starters:

• Pray that Hindko believers would overcome their fear of persecution.
• Pray for additional believers willing to lovingly serve Hindko speakers through practical means.
• Pray that God would reveal Himself through various means including dreams and visions among Hindko speakers.
• Pray that Hindko speakers would have access to God's Word in their own language through print, audio recordings, radio and the internet...

+ Google Map Link: Pakistan, South Central Asia

+ GodTube Video Link: The Persecuted Church in Pakistan [4 min. 45 sec]

+ Gospel Language Link: Hear the Good News in HINDKO, HAZARA language

September 25, 2008 - Prayer for the Twenty-fifth Day of Ramadan

30-Days of Prayer for the Muslim World

Ramadan 2008 / 1429: September 01 - September 30

Tanzania

Changing times among the Rangi people

For Thursday 25 September, Ramadan 2008.

"Loving Muslims Through Prayer"

Population: 350,000

Since the early 1900s in the city of Kondoa and the surrounding areas, more and more Rangi have turned to Islam. When the British took control of Tanzania in 1920, the Kondoa region was already 90% Muslim. Only the Rangi in the Haubi Valley refused Islam. After some debate among the local chieftains, in 1937 the Rangi in Haubi became Catholic and built an imposing cathedral. Since then the 90% Muslim, almost 10% Catholic ratio has basically not changed. Although there have been evangelical congregations for several decades in the area, there are few Rangi evangelicals.

A Rangi language Bible translation project began in 1996 and the translation is progressing well. Other work to help poor families is also under way.

[Full Text]

Prayer Starters:

• Pray for the unity among the Christians that Jesus prayed for in John 17:20-26 to become reality in the area. Muslims have sometimes pointed out that the believers have often been divided.
• Pray for courage, creativity and wisdom for the Rangi Christians as they proclaim the Messiah to their Muslim neighbours.
• Pray for positive economical development, and that the Rangi will not forget God as they seek better economic conditions.

+ Google Map Link: Tanzania, East Africa

+ GodTube Video Link: The Field Afar:Mesange, Tanzania [0:57]