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<\/a>Also, we have taken on two huge projects concerning our house; one is getting the wilderness of a yard under control, and the other is adding on a small washroom and kitchen area for our guard and house worker. \u00a0We made an agreement with the owner before we moved in that some of the rent money would be used to add on this room, so after planning everything with a builder, they are starting the work. \u00a0I’m sure the dust from these two projects are not going to settle for a while….4 weeks. \u00a0Getting the yard under control will allow us the space that we need to have a small garden so we can grow our own vegetables, and possibly a place to raise some small livestock like chickens, or rabbits. \u00a0Raising our own vegetables and meat will hopefully cut down on some of our expenses and will allow us to bless others more with small gifts of food or an animal. Here is a picture of me prepping the area where the new washroom will be.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n In the midst of all this activity (some of which can be extremely frustrating, even maddening…), we feel the joy that only God can bring. \u00a0I have been reading through Ecclesiastes lately and I have really enjoyed it. \u00a0In Ecc 3:12, it says, “I know that there is nothing better for them than to rejoice and to do good in one’s lifetime;” and also in 3:22 it says, “I have seen that nothing is better than that man should be happy in his activities,”. \u00a0I know that being happy in the midst of our activities here and rejoicing in the midst of all that is going on, is really only something that God can grant to us. It is wonderful knowing that He is working through us and bringing us this joy, happiness, and contentment. We know that we are here for a purpose and God opens doors of opportunity for us all the time. This brings us joy knowing that God is continually going before us and demonstrating His providence over us.<\/p>\n For now, we are focusing on ministering to our own family first, and the families in our church, to our workers, and as we become more familiar and comfortable with our neighborhood the people closest to us here as well. \u00a0Our church recently purchased a building and will begin renovating it soon so that we can use the bottom floor for income (renting it out to families and businesses), and the top floor for church and we can rent it out as well for social gatherings. \u00a0The pastor and I excitedly talked about, “to whom much is given, much is required.” That means that the church has now been given much, and it must be faithful to do what is required in the future to bring God the glory that He deserves. \u00a0That’s what we’re here for; to work with the body of Christ to reach those who have not yet heard the good news. It will be a joyful day when each of the tribes of Tanzania are reached with the gospel. \u00a0We are a part of it, our churches here in Tanzania and America are a part of it, and all of you are a part of it. \u00a0Thanks for doing your part, and be blessed for all that you do.<\/p>\n Here are some pictures of the kids having fun.<\/p>\n<\/a><\/a><\/a>