Greetings from Dar

I have had a great trip. I find the people of Tanzania to be beautiful people with a rich culture and incredibly hospitable. This trip has been a journey of contrasts for me. It is truely hard to get your mind around. Riduculous roads that need an SUV and internet cafes on the side of the road. Dirty water and disease yet people have cell phones. It is like they have skipped forward with technology without providing basic needs. It seems backward, but that is my American point of view.

Sunday I went to a church and experienced African worship. I think Asbury folks could learn something from these people. They are so uninhibited. So sign of ego or worrying about perceptions. There focus is to praise God – and they do with all their hearts. The little church I was in had 30-40 people. When they started singing it was incredible. I have never heard anything so loud and powerful from such a small group. It was like a party. The women and children were doing “line dancing” around the room. It was in Swahili, but I was with them in spirit. Of course, I began crying at the sight of such a wonderful thing. The pastor invited me to come say a few words. I did through a translator. It was like a political rally. I would say something – the intepreter would repeat and the people would cheer, clap and shout. Incredible.

The teaching got off to a difficult start – but since has been good. My Keynon brothers (other faculty) did not get here on time – so I had to start without them. I had people introduce themselves, spent time in prayer and when I could stall no longer – I started. So, without materials, projectors, class rosters, etc – I began to teach the unit 1 (that I wasn’t scheduled to teach and had barley reviewed). I have always been flexible and had some ability to wing it - was that ever put to the test. Just my book and the holy spirit. I taught 4 of 6 units the first day – of which I had planned to teach 1. I was exhausted. Then, my fellow teachers arrived and it has been better. Still, I see God working in these people.

I want to tell you about Andrew. The first night students were here, Monday night, Andrew and I were getting to know each other. He is a pastor in Dar. During the conversation, I mentioned the fact I couldn’t send and email to my wife as there was no net connection here. After a bit, he got up and said he was going to get his computer that had net connectivity. With reluctance, I thanked him and he left. Four hours later, he returned with his computer full of joy. Four HOURS! He walked across the city to pick up his laptop. (people here don’t have transportation – they walk everywhere) I was in awe. Do you know anyone that would drive to OKC and back to pick up something for a stranger?... So, today I was teaching on Servant Leadership. We discussed Jesus washing the disciples feet. At the end, I asked Andrew if I could wash his feet in front of the class. He came forward and sat down. I washed his feet. There was an amazing sweet spirit in the room. When I was finished, we hugged and the class sat stunned soaking up the moment. After a minute or two, they broke out with a huge applause. It was amazing. I think Andrew and I will always be connected by that experience.

I have many more stories I could tell but that is just an idea of the divine appointments God has set up during this trip. I would like to thank everyone for their support of my family during my absence. Jennifer is overwhelmed by it. Also, thank you for your prayers for me on this journey. I am having a productive time, but also am eager to get home. Your servant...Teil