Ariko Imana

Day 14- "Ariko Imana" But God... This is a refrain we hear in our church back in the US and it brings peace. It brings peace because we know that in the darkest of days, the hardest of circumstances- God shows up. My ears perked up today as that refrain was shared while we listened to testimonies of life turned around from the direst of circumstances. Women sharing their despair and loss- "But God..." and rich in his mercy, he met them, he drew them to him, and their lives were changed.

Today Erin and I had two opportunities, the rest of the family one, to go to home group meetings of people gathered who had found Christ despite many obstacles. They grew up in Muslim families, and when they chose to follow Christ, they faced much persecution. However, they are so thankful, and he is their amahoro- their peace. Many of them lost family support, and they now gather together to recreate a support that was lost. There is pain, there is longing to be united with family again- but at the cost of denying Christ- they know that isn't an option.

Last night we had such a sweet time of fellowship with Charlotte and her husband Assiel as they hosted us at their house. It was a delicious meal of Rwandan potatoes, beans, meat in peanut sauce, slaw, bread and pineapple with passion fruit. A true feast and a great time to share together. After the meal, Charlotte had the girls practicing their walk with a basket on their heads. Too fun. They'll be selling fruit at home before we know it. haha.

Assiel is a musician and we shared in a short worship time. It was a sweet evening to remember.