“Let me plant you!”

While visiting out with the neighbors a few days ago, Mariama, one of the girls I have been getting to know, insisted that I let her “plant” me, which is what they call the tiny braids they all wear in their hair. While I knew that the braids would never stick in my hair, I conceded to let her attempt anyways, wanting to show my eagerness to adapt to their culture. I sat with my head titled, attempting conversation with my broken Krio, as she fought with my “slippery” hair. Although Mariama actually knows a good deal of English, she likes to pretend that she doesn’t, and refuses to speak to us in anything but Krio, which is actually nice because it helps me to pick it up more quickly. They tell me I am learning fast, which is encouraging. “I love your style!” she keeps repeating, as the rest of the neighbors chuckle at the sight. I sat in wonder as the irony of the whole situation struck me. As I felt Mariama earnestly fighting to plant my hair, with much more success than I expected, I wondered what might happen if I tried with just as much eagerness to help “plant” these people in the truths of God’s word. That is, after all, my whole purpose for being here....

I had my first big opportunity for this that same night, as we had our children’s service. I began a series of Chronological Bible Storying, starting with the Creation story, with the plan to continue chronologically through the Bible, trying to lay strong biblical foundations. While I believe this method of evangelism is very effective in almost any setting, I have found it to be extremely necessary here. Before the story, I asked the children questions to try and discover what they know and believe already. While they are quick to spout off a simple answer that God made the world, further prying reveals that they really have no idea who God really is, or why He created the world. Witnessing in this country, at least here in the city, is difficult, because everyone here is either a Christian or a Muslim, because they are legally required to declare one of those two religions in order to be allowed to vote. The nation likes to boast that the two religions coincide peacefully here, but I think it’s only because virtually no one fully understands or follows either religion. Everyone’s doctrine seems so jumbled, and while they “know” some Bible facts, they don’t seem to really understand them. Please pray that the hearts of the people will be open and willing, and that God would lead and direct myself and the other missionaries with the right words to express His love in a way that they can understand. I also ask for prayer that I would continue to learn the language quickly to better be able to communicate. Also, on a different not, I am currently covered head to toe in mosquito bites. While this is a common occurrence for me, even in Texas, the neighbors here seem to think that mine are exceptionally bad. They say the mosquitoes are “initiating” me into Sierra Leone, but they seem worried that I may get malaria. While I am on preventative medication, it is not impossible to still contract the disease, so please pray also that I would stay healthy. Also, we have a new teen outreach that we are starting this afternoon, so I covet your prayers for that ministry as well. Thanks again for your care and prayers!