...And the Tree was happy.

My all-time favorite book as a child (and arguably now) was "The Giving Tree". What a wonderful book depicting the unconditional love of an others-focused tree and a lonely boy. Maybe my fascination was with the fact that nothing the tree possessed was unavailable to the boy. Or maybe I simply marveled at the fact that in the end, the relationship was the only thing that was ever lasting in the whole book. Both thoughts are beautiful examples of acted-out love.

When we came to Kenya in 2008, Noah Chagwi

was merely a simple night guard with a quiet spirit. He kept to himself but seemed to possess a quiet wisdom. I didn't know Noah as well as some of the others, but Lindy and I were grateful that this man was devoted to his role, though simple. As the months and years wore on, Noah's integrity pushed him to be noticed much like Daniel in the Babylonian captivity. Noah joined the Bible college in Kibera and has quickly become the top student there. He has been the main catalyst for growth inside his own church. In less than 2 years their membership has doubled. Noah would never take the praise for this, but I have no doubt that it's because of his willingness to model service, leadership, and discernment in life.

At the end of this month Noah will no longer be our night guard.

Noah will no longer be our night guard because he is too qualified, too gifted, too valuable to remain in such a position. Noah will be taking on the role of Ebenezer Farms Manager. He will oversee the 3 existing project plants, assist in the development of future project plants, refining our processes, and helping us develop a hatchery system that will bring in more revenue for the ministry as well as give us a further reach.

Noah will also be developing a new interest in Uganda where members of Only Servants Ministries will travel to bring pastoral training for Ugandan pastors who have never been able to receive any sort of training before. Three times a year he and Pastor Indiazi will plan to go and spend 2+ weeks of intense training to Christian servants who desperately need it.

He was given a little, but he has proven faithful with much.

Christopher Chinji is not a street boy. Nope, he is a student

at Hope Academy - Kawangware. Until recently, Chinji was a part of the Saint Boys program for over a year. Now, his hard work, changed life, and God's grace has opened the door for him to return to a school of distinction. Chinji will succeed because he has chosen to be obedient to God's purposes for his life. And because of that, my heart smiles.

We have Bible College students and former street boys who are taking the little and becoming so much more. The small part we play, along with others, is just that. It is small, but so very important. The food, classrooms, Bible study materials, clothes, and love are so insignificant when compared to depth of relationship rooted, like the giving tree, in love.

When I think about where so many, like Noah, Chinji, Bible students, and former street boys, came from, I am reminded of Jesus' encouragement, "And if anyone gives even a cup of cold water to one of these little ones who is my disciple, truly I tell you, that person will certainly not lose their reward." (Matt. 10:42)

...And the Tree was happy! (indeed!)

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