What’s Going Up Is What’s Going Down…At RAU!

On January 20, 2015 By Jacob LeeIn Discipleship, Evangelism, Mercy Ministries, Missions, News and Status Updates, Uncategorized

What’s Going Up is What’s Going Down…At RAU!

by Carol Lee

“Progress results from persistence with purpose.“

– Frank Tyger

Jacob is good about putting posts on Face Book that keep people current on activities and projects here at RAU, but we realize that not everyone “does” Face Book. We want to lasso everyone “into the know” with this post and email.

It has been a season of projects and building and organizing. If there were no seed-sowing, fruit-bearing purpose, it would simply be busy work, but with Jacob there’s always a purposeful plan and he’s persistent, so…we make progress!

The perimeter security wall has been nearly finished. It is now just a matter of aesthetics. As you can see from the picture above, the wall serves not only a practical purpose, but pleases the eye as well.

Right on the heels of that project a second one has begun. Another room is being added on to “Sam’s tukalu” which will allow a queen-sized bed and a couple of bunk beds. We already have solar panels and a battery with which the tukalu can be “electrified.” The current tukalu already has a bathroom with toilet and shower. As we think about the ministry goals of RAU, Jacob is keeping in mind ways of increasing the number of people who may be served during retreat times. He is also thinking in terms of teams, especially couples, who may come to serve. This tukalu will serve both purposes.

102_6527 — Addition of a room to the Tukalu and the foundation for another container.

On the north side of the new room, the foundation is being laid for a platform for the 2nd container for which we are hoping, praying and planning. The idea here is that, between the two containers (which,in themselves, will allow for much storage) there will be a covered work/storage space. That Jacob! He thinks of everything! There is funding enough at present to purchase the container and send it. However, we still need the funding to fill the container with precious cargo – Bibles! It costs $10 per Bible. If everyone bought even one Bible it would help a lot towards meeting our goal. Please keep that in mind in your prayers and your budget. We have the details here: https://reachingafricasunreached.org/fill-the-container-study-bibles-books-and-more/

Jacob continues to walk through opening doors. Tuesday the 20th he will have an opportunity to preach over the radio airwaves via the local Christian radio station. At the end of the message people will be able to call the station with questions or comments. I believe we have mentioned before that this could become a regular event.

In the hills nearby the radio station, Aya Baptist Church has been busy reaching out to its neighbors in the remote areas of Gbare (pronounced, “Bar- ay”) and Arapi (pronounced, “Ah-rah-pee”). They are in the process now of discipling new believers in Jesus and sending one of their own to move to Gbare to pastor the newly formed church. Last Sunday there were 81 people who attended church in Gbare, at least 60% of which were new believers from the last month of evangelism. RAU is partnering with Aya Baptist Church to see a good work established and to see the roots of the church grow deep in love for and obedience to the Word of God. This coming week, on Wednesday, Jacob and Zora (our new ministry intern) will head up to Gbare for some time of discipleship and instruction as well as the basic good of some de-worming medicine. Please pray for this work.

102_6392 — Tobious (and the pastor from Ijuju Baptist Church) and Jacob in the Gbare area evangelizing tukalu to tukalu

On Sunday the 18th, Jacob, Zora and Mindra (one of the men who works here at RAU) drove to Yumbe where they were met by Charles. Charles took them to Ambelecu, one of the Church of Uganda (COU) congregations in Yumbe District near the Koboko border. The COU (also known as the Anglican Church) is a solid presence amidst a devout majority Muslim population. It is a very urgent and major goal of RAU to come alongside believers in an area where it is becoming increasingly dangerous and difficult to be a Christian.

102_6559 — Praying and thanking the Lord for safe arrival to Ambelecu COU.

102_6624 — Jacob preaching the Word and Charles interpreting.

102_6672 — Praying over those who responded to the message to forgive from the heart because they’ve been forgiven.

102_6693 — Honoring the women who cooked and served

On Sunday the 11th, Jacob, Sam and Zora went to Obongi to strengthen Pastor Godfrey’s congregation, Obongi Town Church, in the Word as well as to stand with Godfrey amidst some intense opposition which he has been experiencing. Keep praying for him and his flock. His experiences give us a current depiction of first century church problems such as are recorded in the Book of Acts where Paul went from place to place, experiencing hardship and opposition wherever he was. While Jacob and the guys were there in Obongi they took the opportunity to provide reading glasses, tracts and medicines to those who had gathered, most of whom were Muslims.

10922690_10152578570073053_1038904926047270147_n — Godfrey and Jacob

In one of the last posts, we had mentioned the need for education sponsorship for Richard, who has received surgery for club foot. Within two days, a brother came forward to offer the amount needed for Richard to attend First Presbyterian’s Covenant Junior School! When we told Richard’s father, he was thrilled, as you can imagine, for his young son (for whom life had thrown a curve ball) to receive such an opportunity.

14306_10152580550563053_6789232904349272194_n — Richard – he walketh!

In addition, Anzoa, the young girl who received corrective surgery for congenital cataracts, also received a sponsorship. A brother in America is working on meeting a goal to find sponsorship for 18 more local children. (For one year, it costs $600 to board and educate and provide uniforms for one child.) In America, we take a decent education for granted. Here, people struggle to find ways of getting their children into school and keeping them in school. The older the child, the more expensive and, therefore, the harder it is to keep them in school all the way through to graduation. If anyone is interested in sponsoring a child please contact us.

During the writing of this, a young father came with his child who has hydrocephalus (or some other congenital abnormality.) It is the most expensive of corrective surgeries in which we have been involved because it typically requires numerous follow up visits to the hospital and we rely on special donations for these medical needs that present themselves to us. If the Lord lays it on your heart, we would love to take part in helping this child’ s life and lot improve! You may designate a donation specifically for “the hydrocephalus child“. Thanks in advance for placing your life and resources at Jesus’ feet to be used for His glory in this child’s life!

Not long after, just today, a mother brought her little 6 month old baby girl, named Charity, who has a cleft lip and palate. She is asking for help to get the corrective surgery for this. We, in turn, are presenting this need to you all, hoping that your compassion may be kindled for this child. While the surgery is provided free of charge at CoRSU Hospital in Entebbe, the cost of transporting the mother and child back and forth 2 times as well as providing their up keep while there is what costs. From our past experience, the cost comes to about $800. Any amount that is left over will be kept for the next child who has a physical need.

We feel an empty space which Sam has left in his moving back to the Kampala area to further his medical education. We have been so blessed to have his friendship, his commitment to RAU’s vision and goals, and his talents. He has been a great help to Jacob and a great help in making the vision of RAU a reality. We are grateful for the Lord’s provision for Sam – getting a Bachelors Degree in Nursing is a three year process and is not cheap! The Lord is good. Sam, we wish you very well! We will miss your joyful heart and your beautiful voice leading us in praise!

1013251_10203524502809046_6471259240384171657_n — Nyombi Samuel Wilson

10171632_10203524503289058_5753422362849974391_n — An evening walkabout

10868073_10203534480578484_1257508740631464381_n — His last RAU papaya for a while

Providentially, the Lord has brought us a young man to intern with RAU – Achidrii Onet Zora. Zora completed a two year theological training at African Renewal University, a school which is greatly supported by Desiring God Ministries. Zora has shown himself to be servant-hearted, willing to put his hand to a broom or a hammer or the dishes, or to help Jacob organize books and other resources. He is an “eternal” student, one who likes to ask questions that open up great biblical discussions and who is humble in receiving insight as well as in adding his own insight to the conversation. Jacob has given him opportunity to prepare and give a teaching or a word of encouragement which he has not only done willingly, but with an earnest desire for feedback by which he can grow in serving in this area.

10921700_10203481842302560_912079484_n — Zora enjoying the library books! A man after Jacob’s own heart!

10917830_10203534334774839_3567808568755153616_n — Jacob has perfected his “Tom Sawyer skills” on Zora

10425873_10203534332014770_8184058965400041336_n — Getting resource bags ready for future retreats

10675746_10203534333734813_69356648726940163_n — Filing and organizing

10929550_10203534333014795_3164533758772249000_n — Handy with a broom, too!

This weekend we look forward to the return of our dear friend, John Howarton. He has already been ministering in Ethiopia and South Sudan. Shortly after he arrives we will be hosting another pastors’ retreat in which John’s teaching gift will be used and appreciated.

1425520_611839785538924_1892855207_n — John with his friend, Muhtar

I (Carol) am back to my “normal” self. We will leave out any description of what that word, “normal” might mean for me! On advice and reminder from my brother, Dave, I am staying home from the bumpy day trips to allow any unseen injury to heal which might have occurred from the jarring fall I experienced a few weeks ago. I am enjoying some time to work on my skill set: drawing/painting and my latest interest – ink.

10923240_10203518999271461_6350749641140623466_n — An ink drawing of my favorite tree in front of Aya Baptist Church

We hope that, as you read about our adventures (and misadventures!), and as you pray for RAU, you may also be asking the Lord if you can serve with us here on a more permanent basis. There is more than enough for one man to do and it would be awesome to have a others working together with us here. For starters, consider coming for a short stay to see how your gifts could be used in a greater way to serve the people of this under-served area.

The earthly formula at the beginning of this post could have you wondering if you have the wherewithal to take part in this mission and it places the burden on frail humanity: “Persistence + Purpose = Progress.” Who is equal to the task?!! BUT!….thanks be to God who does not make us His co-workers without equipping us! Remember I Corinthians 4:7: “But we have this treasure in jars of clay, to show that the surpassing power belongs to God and not to us.” Philippians 2: 13 says, “for it is God who works in you, both to will and to work for His good pleasure.” In Luke 24:49 we are reminded that Jesus did not leave without fulfilling His promise to give us the Holy Spirit. “And behold, I am sending the promise of my Father upon you. But stay in the city until you are clothed with power from on high.” “Now to Him who is able to do far more abundantly than all that we ask or think, according to the power at work withing us, to Him be the glory…!” (Ephesians 3:20-21)

May the Lord bless you all! We pray for the Holy Spirit to fill you all with joy, obedience and eyes to see the joy beyond the Cross!

Carol (on behalf of Jacob and RAU)

Blog: http://www.ReachingAfricasUnreached.org

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/ReachingAfricasUnreached

For those who have asked, small packages and letters may safely be sent to:

Jacob & Carol Lee, PO. 55, Moyo Uganda, East Africa

Our “wish lists” may be found at Amazon (Click on the “Wish List” link and type in our name or email address)

The greatest evil is having the gospel and not doing everything within our power to get it to those who do not have it. May the Lord grant each of us His followers the wherewithal to be obedient disciples!

Jacob W. Lee

Tax deductible charitable donations may be made via PayPal. PayPal also has a way to make reoccurring monthly gifts. To do so please click the PayPal link. PayPal deducts a small amount from each gift as a processing fee. All gifts given through PayPal are now tax deductible as Reaching Africa’s Unreached has 501 c3 tax exempt status as a charitable organization. If you wish to write a check you may write it out to R.A.U. and mail it to Lifegate Missions, 395 Lifegate Ln., Seguin Texas 78155

Pressing In

On December 21, 2014 By Jacob LeeIn Discipleship, Evangelism, Mercy Ministries

By Carol Lee

Tractor 4 — Jacob, in between ministry opportunities, making good use of the tractor to shred the planting areas during dry season.

“It’s the job that’s never started as takes longest to finish.”

J.R.R. Tolkien, Lord of the Rings

There is no better champion of this statement than Jacob Lee! And there’s no goal that will not go unmet…or, at least, unattempted…when the idea of it gets set in his head and his heart! I am grateful for his leadership and vision because it keeps Reaching Africa’s Unreached (RAU) ever moving forward…ever pressing in to the Kingdom of God. There is too much at stake, too much to be done for idleness. (I need to take a lesson from him!) When a Pastors’ Retreat is done, there is some new or ongoing project that needs completion on the compound. If you are impressed with anything at RAU (whether it be the campus or any outreach) it’s because Jacob has “laid his hand to the plow” and has not looked back!

Once our last retreat was done, Ssalongo and the building crew came in to start on the veranda’s perimeter safety wall. I was dreading a “closed in feeling” and the loss of clean, open vistas, but I am happy to say that it looks more artful than I could have imagined and it does not really block the view…just gives it a new “dimension” (as I have said elsewhere…I am “making lemonade out of lemons“).

102_6277 — Truck which brought supplies from Kampala to RAU for the building of the perimeter security wall.

102_6316 — Welding the decorative security bars.

102_6315 — Ssalongo, the contractor/builder extraordinaire.

102_6313 — The brick wall is now being covered with local slate.

10616166_10152499217558053_711372818782978229_n — Making great progress on the perimeter security wall. Looking good!

10420176_10203331167415782_7082061141375872335_n (1) — A view from the inside looking out.

We were happy to welcome to RAU a new friend – close on the heels of the last retreat – Paul George from Dayspring Fellowship in Austin, Texas. He has a love for people and a desire to meet their physical as well as spiritual needs. Thanks to his generosity, many children…and adults…in the area have already received worm medicine, anti-fungal creams, and antibiotics. With every day trip Jacob, Paul and Sam have taken to the rural areas (Palorinya, Gbwari, Arapi and Metu), many medications, which are an extension of Paul’s generous and compassionate heart, have been freely distributed. Paul arrived here a week ago on Monday.

The day after Paul arrived, Jacob, giving him NO rest, took Paul (and Sam) to Palorinya for a two-day (Tuesday-Wednesday) Pastor’s Conference put on by the Baptist churches. The team headed out early each morning and came back to RAU in the evenings. About 32 men attended and received ESV Global Study Bibles. Jacob thoroughly enjoyed these men’s “Berean” hearts – eager to learn and know, but careful to study and question. He was immensely encouraged by this “band of brothers.” Jacob was the primary teacher, but Paul gave some short teachings as well. During the teaching sessions, Sam took the young ones and taught them new songs. He and Paul also gave out worm medicines to young and old.

102_6343 — The worship team at the Palorinya Baptist Conference

102_6349 — Sam teaching the young ones songs

102_6327 — Peter (left) and Nicholas (right) with Jacob. Key leaders and wonderful brothers.

Thursday was a “down day” but, since you can’t keep a good man down, Jacob was busy overseeing some projects on the campus. Almost every day, pastors or other visitors also drop by. Jacob is always ready to stop what he is doing to spend time with them and to encourage them in some way, whether by words, books, reading glasses, medicines or other provisions.

On Friday, the team headed to Gbwari and Arapi for an outreach. This is what Jacob had to say in a Face Book post he made: “We just arrived back from a fruitful day of ministry in a remote church-less area of Gbware and Arapi on Nyeri Mountain. Reaching Africa’s Unreached partnered with Aya Baptist Church. We broke up into several teams and went Tukalu to Tukalu for home evangelism. Sam, Paul and two Aya brothers gave out 300 doses of worm medicine and 50 were treated for fungal infections at the Gbwari primary school. [Ninety percent] of those treated were children. In our evangelism, 28 made confessions of faith as well as a a health worker we gave a ride to on the way back to RAU. There were about a dozen new followers of Christ from earlier evangelism in the week by Aya brethren. We are now hoping to build a small grass roofed church where these new believers can begin meeting and will work with a young man who feels called to shepherd this new flock. The Lord is building His church and the gates of hell cannot prevail! Please pray this new body of believers and for us all in their discipleship!” And again on the following day, “I have been hobbling along the whole day like an old man. My legs are stiff from our climbing and walking during our door to door evangelism in Arapi yesterday. My 59 year old legs held up well with all the young bucks . It was a very rewarding day in so many ways. It was my first time to experience a whole family (8 people) put their trust in the Lord Jesus Christ for salvation!” It is exciting to see Jacob walking through doorways of opportunities for which he has been preparing most of his adult life!

102_6377 — The team from RAU and the team from Aya Baptist Church

102_6408 — Up and down hills during tukalu to tukalu evangelism

102_6403 — Pastor Tobious from Aya meeting with a family of 8 who just believed on the Name of the Lord.

102_6383 — Dry season on the Nyeri Mountains

102_6393 — Reaching into very unreached areas with some good news!

102_6410 — On the way down from Nyeri Mountain, the evangelists sat on top to make room for some other passengers needing medicines

102_6394 — One of the women who believed on the Name of the Lord

102_6412 — Receiving medicines from Sam and Paul

102_6319 — Overlooking the Nile River Basin

While the team was hiking all over Nyeri Mountain, I was back at RAU, “holding down the fort” and doing my small part (typing) in the translation work of John Piper’s tract, “Quest For Joy” into Lugbara and Kakwa. Our friend and contact in Maracha, Pastor Joseph, has been overseeing that work of translation, ensuring that it is faithfully converted from English in to these two languages. Joseph has a willing, servant-heart and has eagerly done everything he can to encourage and build up the pastors in his area of the West Nile. The Lord has graciously provided faithful contacts in each of the areas into which we are pressing, of which Joseph is one!

10421505_10203323467063278_2938914357733402751_n — A sample of the Lugbara version of John Piper’s “Quest for Joy”

10882275_10203323466383261_395924660824622607_n — Three versions of “Quest for Joy” (left to right): Ma’di, English (with some terminology simplified – with permission) and Aringa. The original tract by John Piper is in front.

1475957_10203323664468213_6568950400148161392_n — Joseph of Maracha

Saturday was another work day here at the compound. Here’s another excerpt from Jacob’s post on Facebook: “Now that we are not in a growing season we are back at taming the remaining African bush on at Reaching Africa’s Unreached. There are several large termite mounds with unzi (bad, in Ma’di) trees and thorns within them. We are also near completion of creating a wide fire wall around the perimeter of the 17 acres. Wild fires can be very damaging and dangerous in the dry season.This first time is involving more labor as we level the ground and remove anything which might damage the tractor and equipment. I am very guarded in the use of tractor and implements because fixing anything is very difficult, costly and parts are hard to come by.”

102_6432 — Clearing away trees and stumps to make it easier on the tractor

102_6302 — Fire wall around perimeter of the property

One of our greatest joys has been to see the beautiful results of corrective surgeries on children towards which our beloved supporters have donated. On Saturday, little Richard, with bilateral club foot, came by to show us the progress that has been made on his feet. When we first met him, he would not smile. This time around, he was trying to hold his smiles in. He still has a few more minor surgeries which have to be done after the holidays, but the progress is miraculous. We are so grateful to our donors and the donors who give to CoRSU Hospital so that they can provide excellent skill and care to people like Richard.

10712929_10152500106723053_4716797752823150001_n — Richard with Jacob: BEFORE

10868270_10152500106938053_5259488472556815299_n (1) — Richard with Jacob: AFTER

10428093_10152500117558053_1319263555093715529_n — Richard’s feet are not the only transformation which has taken place. Somewhere along the way he found his smile, too!!!

Today (Sunday), Jacob, Paul and Sam visited and worshiped with believers in a Pentecostal church in Metu. Pastor Robert was very gracious and the brothers and sisters very warm in receiving them. The team was able to give out ESV Study Bibles to leaders in the church, many tracts for their use in reaching out to their communities and, once again, medicines to the children and some adults.

102_6445 — Pentecostal (PAG) church in Metu

In the six weeks since we have been back here, we have had the blessing of being able to put an ESV Study Bible in to the hands of key community leaders (police and government officials) and many pastors and church leaders. Their joy in receiving this resource is immeasurable, but can be likened to receiving a cold, refreshing glass of water on a blistering hot day. Most of these people do not have bookshelves loaded with books. Such a resource here is a rarity which makes it all the more valuable. Please consider giving a special gift towards purchasing the 5,000 ESV Global Bibles which we hope to place in our container. Hebrews 4:12 says,

“For the word of God is living and effective and sharper than any double-edged sword, penetrating as far as the separation of soul and spirit, joints and marrow. It is able to judge the ideas and thoughts of the heart.”

Thank you for taking such an interest in what we are doing and also taking part in what we are doing!

Carol and (Jacob) Lee

Blog: www.ReachingAfricasUnreached.org

Facebook: www.facebook.com/ReachingAfricasUnreached

For those who have asked, small packages and letters may safely be sent to:

Jacob & Carol Lee, PO. 55, Moyo Uganda, East Africa

Our “wish lists” may be found at Amazon (Click on the “Wish List” link and type in our name or email address)

Mission Video and More…..

On September 11, 2014September 12, 2014 By Jacob LeeIn Discipleship, Evangelism, Mercy Ministries, Missions

As mentioned in Carol’s last post, Preston and Laurel Sink spent two weeks of July with us in ministry. They were a real joy to us and many others. They boosted Carol’s and my spirits. They made a short video of their trip for their Church, Seagrove Baptist Church from Florida, highlighting some of the things they did. They graciously gave us permission to post it here on the RAU blog. I think you will enjoy it!

A big thank you to all who have been praying for Pastor Godfrey and the situation I alerted many of you about in a private email. Because of the situation I cannot give you details but know things are looking better. Please continue in your prayers! Thank you very much!

We had a great day in Obongi with seven young adults from 1st Presbyterian Church in Kampala on September 8th. I have had the blessing of knowing most them for a number of years, one of whom I met on my first trip to Africa in 2006. They were a great blessing to the 7 month old Obongi Town Church led by Pastor Godfrey. They brought clothes to give out and each of them shared a word of encouragement. I had the privilege of preaching and taught from The Parable of the Pharisee and Tax Collector. Our plan was to go tukalu to tukalu for evangelism after lunch but the heavy rains stopped us. Nevertheless, the Lord brought two people to us who were saved. One came because he was told in the town that this “group” could help him. He came in the middle of my message and afterwards approached us, wanting to know Christ. The other was a teenage girl who stopped by and with whom one of our youth spent a good hour talking; in the end she, too, was giving her life to the King of kings! When God is moving in a place no one can stop Him! On the way back we gained three more passengers who needed rides to Moyo, bringing the total in the Land Cruiser to 13. With all the rain we had to use the 4 wheel drive several times.

Each of the youth shared and led in some songs — Each of the youth shared and they all led in some songs

Distributing clothes brought from Kampala by the youth group

Pork and fish from the Nile were on the menu

Packed in and ready to head back to Moyo

On Tuesday, the 9th, we had a beautiful day sharing Christ on Metu Mountain in several villages. The seven youth from Kampala, Sam, Godfrey, members of Aya Baptist Church, and I branched out in teams from Aya Baptist Church which is pastored by Tobius. The Lord opened the hearts of 13 people to confess Christ and many others heard the gospel message. I had the opportunity to share the gospel in a school and later had the joy of seeing a very old man place his trust in Christ. We all returned to Aya Baptist to report, praise and eat! The camera was with me so I regrettably did not get any photos of the youth as they shared the good news of Jesus. Clothing was also given out to Aya Baptist members.We left, after some beautiful fellowship, determined to go at a later date to the other villages in the area without one church! There are numerous villages back in the hills. By God’s grace we must go to them with the gospel! What joy to work with young people and a church like Aya Baptist who love Jesus and put feet to that love. Preparations are continuing for the drilling of a well in Aya. It would serve Aya and surrounding villages. There are no bore holes in these hills.

This older man professed Christ after sharing the gospel with him.

I enjoyed sharing the gospel at this school. It brought back good memories of my times at Lifegate Christian School and Nixon-Smiley High School. Theere is open access to preaching the gospel in both government and private schools! — I enjoyed sharing the gospel at this school. It brought back good memories of my times at Lifegate Christian School and Nixon-Smiley High School. There is open access to preaching the gospel in both government and private schools!

We see everyone as in need of the gospel and seek to proclaim Jesus

Clothes from the youth were given out at Aya Baptist

Having some fun on the way back to RAU...hum..I wonder where Isma is at :-) ! — Having some fun on the way back to RAU…hmmm…I wonder where Isma is at 🙂 !

What a fine, fun, and Jesus loving youth group! — What a fine, fun, and Jesus-loving youth group!

On Wednesday the 10th, I, along with 15 others (all much younger than me,) spent much of the day in Yumbe in one-on-one witnessing. We broke up into 5 teams and fanned out throughout Yumbe town. We all had very engaging and spirited conversations in this District which is tagged by locals at around 95% Muslim. The Lord was faithful and opened the hearts (compare Acts 16:14) of eight who have joined the family of faith. Thank you to everyone who faithfully intercedes and supports our work!

Getting ready to head into Yumbe town with the gospel. Can you tell we have a lot fun with each other?

With John and Charles who are faithful followers of Jesus in Yumbe. They are excellent interpreters. We were met with many challenging questions from Muslims who would agree to talk with us.

Debriefing.....we all shared our stories — Debriefing…..we all shared our stories

Getting ready to head back to RAU and praising God for those who have come to know Him!

On the 11th we all went to the Moyo prison. The youth shared and sang and faithfully challenged the inmates to follow Christ. They also brought sugar, soap, and clothes for them, displaying Jesus’ love in a very tangible way. We were not allowed to take any pictures. The 12th will be spent in one on one witnessing here in Moyo District and then on the 13th they will all head back to Kampala. Each them of Jesus and I am confident they will be back with more of their fellow youth next time. When youth are challenged in the proper way I have found that they meet and exceed the challenge before them. This mission trip was not easy for them as they were stretched; the stretching was good for them and all of us at RAU!

From the 16th to the 19th we have pastors here for a teaching retreat from Koboko, Maracha, and D.R. Congo. Please be in prayer for this time of teaching and mutual encouragement in the faith. We now have some good contacts in these areas which help facilitate the bringing of these men here. The backbone of our calling are these retreats. With your prayers and support we are able to bring these men here, feed and house them, give them an ESV Global Study Bible and other solid, biblical literature, and teach on the fundamentals of the faith. This is our 9th pastor/church leaders retreat and we have hosted over 200 guests.Our good friend Kevin Turner with SWI will be with us from the 18th to the 25th. He will be able to teach at the last part of the retreat and will be a grand blessing to us and all he comes into contact with. I confidently say that because of his deep and abiding love for Jesus!

Please be in prayer for Africa as much of it is increasingly in the bull’s eye of Ebola. As you know, Ebola is rampant in West Africa. In the past, it has also been here in East Africa and in our immediate area. Please pray that its spread will stop and lives are saved. The following map gives the potential spread of it if it is not stopped. May the Sovereign God of the universe stop it in its path!

We head back to the sweet USA on October 2. It will be ten months since we have been back. We look forward to meeting the newest grandchild, number four, who is due just as we return. Both Carol and I are also looking forward to spending time with family, friends, and dear supporters! Most of our time will be in Texas; however, we will also be in Iowa for my parents 60th wedding anniversary celebration and in Tennessee with our middle son, Josiah.

With Love and Appreciation,

Jacob (Carol) Lee

Web Site: www.ReachingAfricasUnreached.com
Blog: www.ReachingAfricasUnreached.org

Facebook: www.facebook.com/ReachingAfricasUnreached

For those who have asked, small packages and letters may safely be sent to:

Jacob & Carol Lee, PO. 55, Moyo Uganda, East Africa

Our “wish lists” may be found at Amazon (Click on the “Wish List” link and type in our name or email address)

Tax deductible charitable donations may be made via PayPal. PayPal also has a way to make reoccurring monthly gifts. To do so please click their link below. PayPal deducts a small amount from each gift as a processing fee. All gifts given through PayPal are now tax deductible as Reaching Africa’s Unreached has 501 c3 tax exempt status as a charitable organization. If you wish to write a check you may write it out to R.A.U. and mail it to Lifegate Missions, 395 Lifegate Ln., Seguin Texas 78155.

“Striving Side by Side for the Faith of the Gospel”

On July 26, 2014 By Jacob LeeIn Discipleship, Evangelism1 Comment

“…standing firm in one spirit, with one mind striving side by side

for the faith of the Gospel…”

Philippians 1:27

Social media has it pros and cons. Let me tell you about one of the “pros!”

Several months ago, Laurel Sink had posted on Facebook that she was wanting to live more radically for Christ. She had been reading David Platt’s book, “Radical” and it had challenged her. I wrote in the “comment” section, “Come over and help us!” I wrote it sort of flippantly because that kind of invitation rarely has any serious takers.

Guess what?!! Laurel and Preston Sink took us up on it! It has been a grand blessing and joy. Not only did they come loaded with goodies and ministry supplies from their church, Seagrove Baptist Church in Florida, as well as from family and friends, but they came ready to jump in to do whatever we had planned.

They arrived arrived in Kampala on July 17th. All of their 11 bags arrived safely, too! Sam and Pastor Bob Gad were at the airport to pick them up. To the credit of Bob’s Ugandan packing skills, they and their bags were able to fit in the car for the drive to Patrick and Vickie Bukenya’s home where Preston, Laurel and Sam spent the night. Sam took Preston and Laurel around Kampala the next day where they got to experience the joys and the trauma of Kampala traffic. From what we hear, Patrick took them on a harrowing ride to the bus station that evening to catch the night bus to Moyo. Jacob picked them up Saturday morning in Moyo and delivered them to RAU – our Shangrila!

10473446_10202468938020586_5601109579239995954_n — Preston and Laurel Sink’s arrival to RAU’s Shangrila! — with pineapple from Lowero.

No rest for the weary, though. Sunday morning, we made an early start to Yumbe District to a small village called, “Coro,” (pronounced “Choro.”) We picked up Ben (and his wife, Jackie and son, Jedidiah) and Charles at the Kerila junction and brought along the newly printed Aringa tract which Preston and Laurel were so gracious to stow away in their luggage and bring to us. The look on Charles’ face in seeing the tract for the first time is priceless. He was the one who translated John Piper’s tract, “Quest For Joy,” into Aringa for its printing.

10472693_10202478435098007_4735473110165204105_n — Charles reading the Aringa tract, “*Quest For Joy*“ by John Piper, for the first time in printed form!

[Ben and Charles have been great friends and brothers in the Lord and a tremendous help to RAU in organizing pastors for retreats at RAU and medical opportunities in the community. They have been key people in helping to unite the Christians in the Yumbe area.]

10559818_10202478453658471_228793477763259166_n — Ben and his son, Jedidiah

Preston, ever the energetic and happy “I’m-willing-to-do-whatever-needs-doing” person, partnered with Charles to deliver the good news in the form of Aringa tracts to some of the locals in Kerila…

10525683_10202478436098032_1870798449563840212_n — Preston handing out Aringa tracts in Kerila

and along the way….

10552628_10202478513859976_124866111921795574_n — Preston interacting with a man along the way to whom he had given an Aringa tract.

We experienced all kinds of excitement before we reached our destination. Unfortunately, much rain had fallen overnight and the roads were ALMOST impassible. Just looking at the roads induced stress. Actually driving through the muddy parts and nearly getting stuck had me holding on for dear life, head buried and eyes closed…in prayer…fervent prayer! It was too much excitement for me. I decided we needed to rename our group, “White Knuckle Missions!“

“White Knuckle Missions!” Video

Road to Choro — I opened my eyes long enough to see us heading toward this small tree on the side of the road.

10418412_10202478477059056_4858564399431737649_n — Surveying the possibilities and probabilities.

10290663_10202478462898702_407184011733857701_n — So much for washing the vehicle the previous day.

One of the joys of the journey was noticing the surprised and, often, frightened looks on the faces of the children (or adults!) at seeing white faces for, perhaps, the first time. One of the children was overheard saying to another smaller child, “Be careful, they will eat you!” It’s no wonder there was a look of terror! A few of the children overcame their fears to come and shake our hands.

10524317_10202478497619570_3443094800655016791_n — “Be careful! They will eat you!”

10543620_10202478663583719_2000810139174787656_n — “Mundu, mundu, mundu!” (White person – in Aringa)

At last we reached Coro (Choro) and were greeted by some sweet…and shy… faces.

102_4966 — In Front of Coro Pentecostal Church

10411066_10152203132913053_7682830586717481544_n — Photo op on top of a large bolder prior to the prayer service.

10551038_10202478572941453_8800819905644925363_n — Impromptu choir practice. We enjoyed the native instruments.

10550894_10202478617222560_5572656882822642461_n — Sam trying his hand at it!

10526011_10202478659143608_6425113079707087111_n — Jacob illustrating a point in his sermon about not merely acknowledging Jesus intellectually, but embracing Him in trust and in relationship.

102_5010 — Meet and Greet after prayers.

102_5004 — Group photo! Several area Pentecostal churches came together for prayers.

Preston and Laurel shared their testimonies and generally endeared themselves to all with whom they came in contact. Jacob preached. At the end of the service we also handed out de-worming medicine to the children and adults.

Before we headed back to Moyo/Afoji we went into Yumbe town to drop off Ben and Charles. Preston, Jacob, Charles and Ben made the most of it by handing out more Aringa tracts to folks on Main Street. Jacob had an interesting interaction with a couple of Imams, one from Pakistan. (Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, and Somalia have a lot of influence in Yumbe.) One of the gentlemen he spoke with wanted Jacob to go to the Mosque to receive something the man had to give him. If we had had more time, Jacob would have done it, but we were in need of heading home before it turned dark.

102_5015 — Preston handing out tracts on Main Street in Yumbe.

10527579_10202478754185984_559100590863243780_n — Jacob handing out tracts to some women in a store.

10306557_10202478647383314_5567175514608417347_n — We all looked at each other with an *“oh no”* kind of a look as it began to rain heavily at the end of the prayer service, wondering if we would make it back home. Roads were bad enough on the way there!

In spite of the rain and the countless mud puddles and potholes, we made it back safely to RAU. Monday was a little more laid back, but still brought some ministry opportunities. Jacob and Preston “played” on the tractor a little.

10565150_10152201361858053_7814128102568903100_n — On the tractor

In the afternoon we went to Moyo town to get bathing soap which we took to hand out in Moyo Prison. Preston and Jacob shared briefly and had a very good response from the prisoners. There are a total of 73 inmates, including 4-5 women. They have incredible physical, emotional and spiritual needs. It opened up our eyes to their needs and has inspired us to want to be more involved in their lives.

Persistent rains throughout the night gave us pause to wonder if we would make it to Obongi the next day. Our concerns were for naught, though, as the roads were passable and, in fact, much nicer than the ones to Yumbe and we left a little later than planned to allow the roads to dry a bit.

102_5026 — At the top of a hill which descends to the Nile River.

Along the way to Obongi, Jacob enjoyed a little prank at Laurel’s and my expense, pretending to throw a green snake at us which turned out to be only a blade of grass. It yielded the squeals for which he was hoping. His glee is evident in this photo.

10345537_10202486975271506_8565109088178706909_n — Prankster!

We arrived to find that Pastor Godfrey and brother Bosco had not frittered away the time waiting for us, but were, themselves, encouraging the folks that had come. Without wasting any time we dove right into the activities that Godfrey had planned.

10570286_10202487053553463_7306134190425196437_n — Eager to learn

10478555_10202487055313507_4504323197480451263_n — Eager to teach!

Preston and Jacob both taught and Laurel gave her testimony and a word of encouragement. And we worshiped! We all were amazed by the exuberance and endurance with which they sang!

10561700_10202490145830768_8251206079454248133_n — “Jesus carries our burdens.”

It was incredible how many kids were joining in and we learned that Pastor Godfrey not only welcomes the little children, teaching, feeding and caring for them (like Jesus commanded) but also welcomes “misfits.” It was heartening to see that the town drunk and a mentally ill young man were not chased away, but were allowed to participate and were fed afterward. Godfrey and Bosco are doing a wonderful work in this very unreached area of Obongi.

Video:Words of Encouragement from Pastor Bosco

10577203_10202487131715417_2060261355735057765_n — A young Muslim boy listening intently.

10556427_10202487289239355_8234069671596016306_n — Young boy working to overcome his fear of Preston in order to feel the hair on his arm. Most people here do not have a lot of body hair.

10552510_10202487131035400_4394547985280974248_n — Joining in the music

10533982_10202487130395384_1258254923600956567_n — Lots of kids from the neighborhood…just hanging around.

10502429_10202487025032750_1840269062197652260_n — Preston and Laurel with the kids

10491085_10202487024152728_6469326885827666105_n — I love the look on the little boy’s face!

10574431_10202490540600637_3574846448337888954_n — Joining in on a good meal…beans and chapathi. A young, mentally ill man receives courtesy and care at Godfrey’s church.

Part of our visit to Obongi was spent in finding a plan of action to move forward on land that was legally purchased in Obongi for a branch Hall of Tyrannus, but blocked by a local federal leader who is a Muslim and doesn’t want any Christian group to have a stake in the land within the town.

10532549_10202490148430833_6925123296818808848_n — On the way to the property to discuss a plan of action.

10550853_10202490518800092_8912497910870249134_n — Returning from a meeting at the bank and the police department.

Before we headed home we stopped at a store to get a refreshing, cold soda for the road. As tracts were being handed out, people would actually come to the window and ask for one. Laurel and I were both agreeing that we would never see anything like that in America! It’s a great opportunity as it is rare for people here to have something written in their own language.

10356227_10202490519280104_2583070040769748885_n — Stopped at a store to get a soda for the ride home. Handed out tracts.

10443518_10202490519640113_3612163432356579183_n — Reading a tract in his own language,Madi

We have been back home for several days. Our plans have been waylaid by the need for us to get our 4-wheel drive fixed on the Land Cruiser. The more it rains…and, boy, has it been raining…the more we need to have it! There is no “Auto Zone” here so we actually had to send the mechanic to Kampala to buy the part. He is here right now trying to get our vehicle in working order.

In the meantime, Preston and Laurel were escorted (by foot) to the village of Zaccheo, one of the men who works with us. They received a warm welcome and shared with and talked to them. Yesterday, Jacob and Preston went two separate ways to hand out tracts and share the gospel with people in the community.

While we wait for the vehicle to be fixed we have enjoyed simple and fun times together. We feel like one big, happy family!

Our time with Laurel and Preston has been blessed and joyful and we will be sad to see them leave. Occasionally, a few words slip from their lips that give us great hope: “Next time…” Yes! We certainly hope there is a “next time!”

10395166_10202500618892588_1300209217700973641_n — Jacob has Joseph, our friend from Maracha, and Preston working on…something!

10505420_10202500619292598_4265437848704466384_n — Obviously VERY difficult work!

10353031_10202500612332424_2353534808372178430_n — Preston brought some pepperoni and Ritz crackers. Together, they are the closest thing to pizza we have had in a long time!

10532953_10202500612852437_937052698062894945_n — No crumb shall go to waste!

10556483_10202500613812461_3110468672291470777_n — Jacob has enjoyed Preston’s company…and his pepperoni… so much!

The mechanic has arrived with the vehicle part and is putting it in place as I write. If all goes well, we hope to head back to Yumbe Sunday for more ministry. Next week we plan to continue visiting churches and doing outreach in various areas of Yumbe District and Obongi. A week from this Sunday we will travel to Ayaa Baptist Church on Metu Mountain. Definitely going to need 4-wheel drive for that one!

That following Monday, Preston and Laurel will head back to the States. That same week will usher in one of two back-to-back pastors’ retreats. We will have two in August and then two in September. At the end of September we will head to Kampala to catch a flight for our much anticipated visit to the States.

Keep us in prayer as we still have a lot of “mudding” to do! During rainy season the roads can be rougher than usual. Pray for our plans, that all that the Lord has for us will be accomplished.

Thank you for all your prayers and support!

Carol (Jacob)

Web Site: www.ReachingAfricasUnreached.com
Blog: www.ReachingAfricasUnreached.org

Facebook: www.facebook.com/ReachingAfricasUnreached

For those who have asked, small packages and letters may safely be sent to:

Jacob & Carol Lee, PO. 55, Moyo Uganda, East Africa

Our “wish lists” may be found at Amazon (Click on the “Wish List” link and type in our name or email address)

Yumbe Outreach

On July 8, 2014July 8, 2014 By Jacob LeeIn Discipleship, Evangelism, Mercy Ministries, Missions

We just finished the first weekend in a month of ministry dedicated to Yumbe District. I preached in a Church of Uganda congregation in Eleke. RAU has been given an open door to preach in Anglican, Baptist, Presbyterian, and Independent churches. Eleke was brimming with people, especially children! The opportunity for them is great if they find a way to capture the hearts and minds of all these children.

Call to worship – in a culture where people don’t live by the clock.

Preaching 4 — Preaching on the Parable of the Unforgiving Servant. This is one of most compelling parables illustrating the gospel and how it is to be lived.

Confessions 2 — Moving confession of and repentance from anger and unforgiveness following sermon

102_4787 — Many children, waiting to be engaged in Christ’s commission

Later, from the top of the Land Cruiser, I had the privilege of heralding the gospel in the market of Kerila, right after the Pilgrim’s Church Choir drew the crowds with their beautiful singing . Our preaching site was 100 yards from a large, beautiful, and brightly colored mosque and our message was lovingly aimed at the many Muslims of the area who are nearing the end of Ramadan celebration. Whether they gathered around us or were listening from behind closed doors or from a distance, our prayer is that the Lord opened hearts to believe the Gospel message in the same way the Lord opened Lydia’s heart in Acts 16.

Attentive Muslim Women — Is there a Lydia among them?

Climbing the “podium”! I know George Whitefield would have loved this platform!

Getting to know you — Chatting with Brother Barnabas who was my interpreter

Open air preaching 3 — Preach the gospel to all of creation!

Is there a Lydia amoung them 2 — Gathering to listen

The Land Cruiser served us well to not only take us back and forth from Afoji to Yumbe, but to ferry the choir, instruments and sound system to the church and market area.

We will head back this next weekend!

Updates:

We have been hard at fence work, giving RAU an amazing “face lift!” A special thank you to Andy and Patsy Hildebrand from Seguin, Texas for supplying RAU with T posts and barbed wire which hitched a ride in the container. Termites are especially bad in this area so wooden posts do not last long. Also, animals love to come grazing if they’re allowed, so a sturdy perimeter is a must. Our soybeans, beans, peanuts,corn, and cassava are doing well. A nice rain would be beneficial as it is getting a bit dry. The proceeds from the crops will go directly into the ministry.

“Mildred Forgive”

We are sorry that we don’t have an updated picture of Mildred. She is back home and looks like a normal little baby and doing very well. She has a follow up visit at the end of this month. The family is very grateful for the financial help of those who made the surgery possible. Hopefully soon, we will be able to meet up with her and the mother to get some new photos.