More than Casual Observers

Written by Merle "Pops" Stoltzfus (Corinne's father)

“Listen, my dear brothers: Has not God chosen those who are poor in the eyes of the world to be rich in faith and to inherit the kingdom he promised those who love him.” (James 2:5)

Not everyone is invited to have dinner in Nyenga Village. In fact, few have this privilege of an entire meal cooked over charcoal. The location is remote, the kitchen simple, the dining room small and we won’t mention the restrooms. But, it is a priceless experience.

Upon arrival, the Honda CRV squeezed between two buildings to park in a front yard of dirt sprinkled by clumps of grass and litter. The neighborhood trash bin is convenient for this home but creates some challenges as well. By the time we pried ourselves out of the packed car, we heard the chant of children’s voices, “Dan—eee’, Dan—eee’, Dan-eee’. “ Neighbors; children and mothers (fathers were still at work) came from 3 directions to greet the family who, three weeks earlier had suddenly departed for a medical leave. “How are you? Welcome. Daniel, are you better.” It was evident the Iya family was greatly missed but none as much as Danny.

After the multiple locks and latches of the house were released, it was evident the neighbors had provided good 24 hour security surveillance. Danny broke out his new soccer ball which quickly hatched a pick up soccer game between buildings, trash bin and the car. Rules were quickly established followed by the shouts of competitors echoing off the concrete walls. Too young to compete, Danny turned his attention to a three year old girl chewing a piece of potato from each fist. She generously offered Danny a bite. True to his self, he accepted more than her offer and relieved her sticky left hand to share in what remained of its entire contents. Grandpa (“Pops”) quickly protested but then realized sharing food was the common practice in Nyenga Village. After all, we were one of the few privileged outsiders invited to dinner. Gratefully sharing, receiving and accepting were far more important than sanitation.

The coveted pace of life in Nyenga allows for lengthy greetings. Time is never more valued than relationships. “This is my mother and father” was responded to by the Ugandan handshake which initially feels like we had joined their secret society. By the end of the visit, the handshake was endearing. These Nyenga neighbors have been through a lot together. The mother who gave birth in the back seat of Daniel's truck 2 years ago accompanied by her daughter were one of the first to greet us. It was obvious how Danny and the commonality of young children has been used by God to build strong relationships. “All of this for your benefit, so the grace that is reaching more and more people may cause thanksgiving to overflow to the glory of God.” (2 Cor. 4:15)

Fifteen months ago when Danny was born there was question about whether the continuation of this living environment could continue. Each month this question continues to become more difficult. Danny is sick more days than healthy. Does God intend for missionaries to put their children in continual health risk for the sake of the gospel? This question is asked every day and the answer is only sufficient for that day. Corinne & Daniel are committed to follow God in both their responsibility as parents and ministry. Like all of us, each day demands a new commitment to follow Jesus and make the choices related to being His bond-Servant.

The days of living in Nyenga Village are likely numbered. Five years of building relationships have born eternal fruit. The whole experience has been very much a 2-way Street. Just the thought of moving away from this loving adopted home is sorrowful to contemplate. The joy of the relationships far exceed the difficulty of the primitive environment. But the responsibility of parenting seemingly is demanding a change. For God’s people, the momentary troubles of this life are achieving an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. Pray with Daniel & Corinne through this challenging decision. “And my God will meet all your needs according to His glorious riches in Christ Jesus.” (Phil. 4:19)