Scripture Reading: Acts 3:1-26
Matthew 10:16. I am sending you out like sheep among wolves. Therefore, be as shrewd as snakes and as innocent as doves.
Acts 3:6. Then Peter said, “Silver or gold I do not have, but what I do have I give you. In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, walk.”
James 4:2. You do not have because you do not ask God.
Culture Reading
No reading today
Devotional Thought
There is a great emphasis put on education and “contact” or “connecting” with foreigners (Wazunugu). Kenyans live in an open culture. Needs are known and needs are met by the community. So, it is not unusual for Kenyans to be open and direct about the needs they have. They truly understand the value of “ask and you shall receive”—and also never receive because you never asked. They will befriend people quickly due to their love of hospitality—but also in hopes of creating networks and relationships that may help them achieve their long-term dreams.
This creates an interesting dynamic. On the one hand, our hosts greatly benefit from our presence. Connections with outsiders leads to resources and opportunities that most Kenyans do not have. These relationships bring instant respect and expectation within the culture. The benefits can impact a wide array of things: building projects, financial windfalls, educational opportunities, influence in politics, benevolence or ongoing mission projects, and a boon to business in a crowded Kenyan marketplace.
But there is also potential for some culturally confusing moments—or outright abuse of power. Kenyans are obligated to share their resources with family, clan, and friends. A large sum of money may not always be saved or managed, but instead may be spent on immediate needs within the community. Budgets are hard to find for most ministries, and budgets do not trump the immediate needs of the people in the ministry. And, of course, individuals (no matter how old) will always ask for money to “go to school” or to “come to America” for a better life. This is a part of the culture. They have heard “no” many times. And they will keep looking for a “yes.”
We see this same dynamic unfold in Acts 3. Peter has no money to give. He does have the Spirit. And the Spirit did an amazing miracle. But the end result of the miracle was a chance for the Gospel to be preached. This is always the goal of presence and influence: to create space for the Gospel to be preached.
We have great power and influence based on our faith in Jesus, our professional training, and our country of origin. We appear as spiritually blessed, well-educated and wealthy (and indeed, we are). And we have come to do a good work through our hosts and partners. It is good for us to share our influence and status as a part of our mission. But always remember: the hosts and partners have to stay and continue the work once we leave. If we leave a mess, they have to clean it up. If we make unwise promises, they will have to break them for us. And they will also bear the burden of avoidable mistakes.
So, be cautious. The needs of 95% of the Kenyans are great, and you may be able to meet one of these needs easily. But one gift could start and avalanche of requests. Also, money is not the primary source of hope and help on this trip. You will be overwhelmed at times by the basic needs of each person you meet. Many will ask you for personal aid, and your giving heart will be ready to rush forward. But not all who ask are worthy. Not all motives are equal. Not all requests are transparent. Not all ministries serve the greater good. Not all Christians seek to build the kingdom. We must be “as gentle as doves and wise as serpents” as we minister in our unique position of influence on this trip. Let us keep the following in mind as we seek to use our influence for God’s kingdom.
Our hosts have proven themselves worthy of our financial support. That is why we are working with them.
Our hosts are more aware of the backstories of the community and individuals that we will encounter. We will need to trust their intuition when it comes to meeting needs and helping people.
Kenyans are not afraid to ask for help—so let us be generous in what we came to offer. Giving money is not our primary goal. Encouragement, education, time, and exemplifying sacrifice must be at the top of our list.
Be respectful of every person and every request.
Do not be surprised if you are isolated by a Kenyan friend on more than one occasion at a meeting or gathering. Many Kenyans will ask for favors in private. Be gracious in your listening. Be quick to pray, quick to encourage, and slow to give money or promises.
We cannot meet every physical need, so do not try. Direct all clear issues and emergency needs to our hosts.
Be transparent about the goals of our mission and your personal involvement with EPIK ministry and Russell Academy. Do not flaunt your money or influence.
Do not make promises you cannot keep. Kenyans are used to hearing “no.” But they will also never forget when someone says “yes.”
Reflection and Prayer
Pray for focus on our mission: to educate leaders in Kenya so that they can be the best teachers and pastors that they can be.
Pray for wisdom in dealing with the poverty and trauma that we will see on our trip.
When God calls us to act—pray that we will be obedient and humble to fulfill his calling.
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