we listened to the tape later, laughing that all we could hear were porpoising and cleaning groans, happy dance noises and the occasional wild giggle; thankfully it was not a day with any howls or perseveration or repeated self talk – don’t hit your sweet stister, moll – best fwend – at least, none of those noises ended up on the tape.

oh dear nelsons! your pale skin and blue eyes and blond hair will cause heads to turn anyway – your singing, darker children will be the ministers they have been here, and i know that two things are sure: first, that the people who do respond will be so blessed that their hearts will overflow toward you, and second, the Lord is pleased by the joyful noise!

sub-saharan africa will never be the same … and neither will those of us who have been so blessed by you all here. the same Jesus who gives you the courage to face the blank stares or hostility in the local stores or community will give you more than you could ever ask or imagine when you are sojourners in a foreign land.
we will never stop praying for you, either -