Kilimanjaro Journey : Kid Day in Mirowa

Sherehe

Scott, Annelle, and I headed to Mirowa on a Saturday for the Kid Day. Joseph, one of our national leaders, headed up. The goal was to demonstrate the importance of kids in the community to the community and government. The day began with excitement and we were seated under the special tarp canopy that was made. The government guests were escorted in as well and the excitement was building. Introductions were made as always which is a sign of respect. Scott spoke for CMF and introduced all of us. The District Commissioner had an impressive speech for the occasion. He promised support and land for the village church's effort to help with the orphans and widows in the area. I was surprised when he looked at me and called me "Momma Watoto." (One who cares for all children) There are some powerful words in his remarks and positive that it came from the government.

The kids were seated in the field in front of us. They began with choirs from the different area schools in song. The song was written and was sung for the orphans of the community. Even though I could not understand each word I knew enough as I saw the emotion on the faces of those around me. Everyone was moved by the kids and the words that were floating out of their mouths. The choir director was an expressive kid who impressively lead the group. Such expressive young ones who brought a powerful message to begin the festivities. They even brought tears to the District Commissioner's eyes. Following, a group who were dressed in their native and traditional beads came and presented in song and tribal moves. This was important as well to instill in the Maasai that they do not have to dress differently or leave their traditions to become a Christian. It was moving as Joseph's mom stood up and joined the group in their traditional dance. We were brought into a somewhat hidden expressive part of their culture.

We had lunch and then the sports activities were to begin. I had the honer of bringing and presenting the trophy. The kids began to swarm me as Joseph introduced me and presented the glistening gold piece of metal that I held in my hands. I began to be surrounded by a sea of dark precious faces. Completely encircled, I was over come with us a sense of love. Something special and different was here for the school who would be the winner of the soccer games. Such hidden talent in these sea of faces. But, not hidden from God.

The day definitely radiated how special kids were in this community. Kids are not often held in high regard in many of these tribal groups. We were moved at how the national church leaders organized and thought of this day. Hundreds of people were there to cheer on their kids and discover what was happening. We as CMF and their teachers were so moved as these empowered beings lead and have such a heart for their own. This is what we are all about for the enhancement of God's Kingdom. It was a joy and not hidden from me anymore.

Prayer Points~

Pray for Joseph as he has ideas to protect and care for the orphans and widows in his area.
Pray for the Maasai Children that they would come to know of a God who loves them.
Pray for CMF as we figure out how to be supportive to Joseph and these national leaders.
Pray for the government (with the excitement of the day wanted all districts to have a day like this) that they will not forget this day! Pray that they will keep their promise and support the efforts of the church leaders for the people.