We’re enjoying weekly rains, the students are gone, we’ve moved into our ‘new’ house, and the work continues; that about sums up our situation now. After nine very dry and hot months, we now have the periodic relief of literal showers of blessings. The students are on their summer vacations along with many of the staff. Many things are being done here on campus to prepare for the new school year which will start in less than a month. Lois, along with the help of many willing hands, moved the computer lab to the new Media Center this past weekend. She has lots of work ahead to put it all together, but she’s very relieved to have it ‘in place’. This week’s plan includes moving the library to the Media Center. It’s exciting to be here and to see how God is blessing as we prepare for the year ahead.
This area of West Africa and particularly Niger does not seem to be a magnet attracting people to come and work along with those who are here. The work is slow, the culture is difficult, and the weather seems to aggravate any other situation. Therefore, it is not easy to attract people to come to Sahel Academy and teach MKs. This year we have some challenges ahead as some key teaching positions have not been filled – yet. Last night as some of us met to pray, we were reminded of how God has supplied in the past; we are earnestly asking God to show His mighty hand once again. We’re praying for the students God will send our way this year, that they will “take it personally”, and see how God has provided for them again. We pray that they will learn to know in their hearts that God will continue to provide for them every day of their lives.
Sahel Academy is a strategic part of the missions work here in Niger as we continue to educate missionary kids. Even though the work in Niger is difficult and slow here, in the past 20 years the number of churches in the capital city of Niamey has grown exponentially. Niger seems to be in competition for last place as the poorest nation in the world. The world says that the nation needs more money given to it. We say that Niger needs Christ. This country seems to be as hard as the ground we walk on, yet the gospel of Christ and Biblical thinking are beginning to make a dent. This is not the time to back off on missionary activity, but to continue our efforts. We realize that things in the states are tight, so we greatly appreciate the sacrifices that are being made for the cause of Christ both at home and abroad. If it were not for your continued prayers and support the work here in Niger would cease. We thank you, and the people of Niger thank you even though most of them do not know it yet.