The Lord is continuing to work!

Yes, the Lord is definitely continuing to work out HIS will concerning the need of a vehicle. It has been a faith stretching process these last two months as I see how the Lord is working in regards the news of a need for a vehicle. I praise HIM for what He is teaching me about leaning on HIM, about being willing to turn over my WILL to the Lord so that He can work.

It was disappointing at first that my departure date for returning to Kenya would likely be postponed and to realize that so much was need in a short period of time. Was my faith in the Almighty God large enough? Was I willing to release my control over this decision that I thought I should be making upon returning to Kenya? What would I do regarding place to stay and vehicle if I needed to stay longer into the summer? These are some questions that I have posed to trusty friends in recent weeks. They have been so supportive. Thanks!

Thanks to many of you who have been praying for me and this new needs. Thanks to others who have called to ask concerning questions as you are as surprised as I am about the need of the vehicle. Thanks to the Lord for what He is teaching about waiting on HIM.

What is the reason for the late notice of a need of a vehicle? 1)is the change in mission leadership in Kenya as of September 2007. 2)As a result of insecurity in Kenya from Dec. to March necessitated AIM leadership concentrating on current events, safety issues and care of missionaries in Kenya. That left little time for concentration on matter relating to AIM missionaries outside of Kenya, but planning to return.

Where should funds be sent? They can be sent either to AIM or GMC offices.(See my May newsletter) But if funds are sent to AIM there is one less set of hands the funds to be funnels through. Also it will be easier to keep track of the running total if they are sent to AIM with an attached note specifically mentioning "Smethers' vehicle project".

Will the vehicle be purchased in the USA? IF not, why? No the vehicle will be purchased in Kenya. If it was purchased in the USA it would likely be extra expense above the $30,000 for customs, transport and fees to get into Kenya. Also it would be an extra expense to keep an American vehicle repaired as parts for American cars are not easily accessiable in Kenya. It will be more economical, less hassles, and import fees for parts in the years to come if the vehicle is purchase in Kenya. There are 4WD dealors in Nairobi, and mechanic garages where repairs can be done. Added to that often missionaries are leaving and selling their well kept vehicles which give another option for purchasing a well cared for second-hand vehicle.

God is working!

I am excited as to what the Lord is starting to do regarding the vehicle project. People are starting to hear the news of the need. Others are asking how they can be a part of the project. Others are inquiring as to the reason for the vehicle and why it seems like a late time in furlough to get the news out. Yet, others have been such a source of encouragement and prayer support! I feel so blessed in recent weeks. I am thrilled with the way that the Lord is showing HIS CONTROL and SOVEREIGN will in the entire matter.

We humans love to have control of our lives and living in "limbo" is not easy. We like to know what is going to happen in the near future. We like to have a say in what will be ahead of us. Yet, I am finding, slowly, that living a Christian life is living it the way the Lord desires and wills for me.

I have hopes of returning to Kenya in the near future, but it may not happen on the date expected. The mission leadership wants at least $12,000 raised before the departure date of June 10th from the USA. But if the Lord wants me to stay longer in the States that is fine. He has already shown me some possiblities of where to stay for a few months from now, about a vehicle and other matters related to the possible delay. Perhaps there is some future need for a vehicle that we (all of us involved in this matter) are not aware of. Perhaps we may not know until we reach Heaven ! That we will leave with the Lord! I do want to stay within His will for me, nevertheless.

I have been reading verses regarding wisdom and instruction. Here are a few that have caused me to think about. Proverbs 13:13; Proverb 3:5-7; Proverb 2:6-12 Thanks for your continued prayers on this entire matter. Blessings! Again"Munguanaweza" means "God is Able"!