And so it begins…

I never thought I would be a blogger. I like writing, but, for me, sitting and keeping a journal is about as regular as an old person without Metamucil. Not to mention, I didn’t think I had much to say that was worth reading. To be honest, I am doing this as an efficiency measure to save time and streamline the “update publishing” process, but hoping it will also encourage electrifying expression of everything that’s going on in this crazy head of mine. Read on, follow these thoughts and enjoy the coffee facts. It is my intent to make what’s posted on Rise Up be informative, entertaining, encouraging and thought provoking and I thoroughly appreciate the time you take to read.
Mbarakiwa, Alyssa

Kenya Believe it? Nairobi Stayin in Africa

Hey everyone! So, I just graduated and wasn't sure what to do with my life. All there was to do was pray, and wait. God always has a purpose and a plan, and the answer will come in His timing. Though it was nerve-wracking to be unsure of what to do after graduation, I was confident a door would open. God is amazing and I have had countless illustration thus far in my life, and this summer in East Africa has been no exception. So, I am staying in Nairobi, Kenya! At least until December, but who knows what God has planned. I'm not staying in Africa because it's Africa, because their need is greater or because I think I can change it. I'm staying because God put me right here, right now for His purpose. I'm staying because Christ came to bring worth to the worthless and love to those the world casts away. Street Kids can be found in every city around the world. They are usually runaways or orphans finding shelter among the alleys or shadows. In Nairobi particularly, these teens are not only on the streets, but in the slums. Even within their own community, they are rejected. The statistic of how many there are is probably overwhelming, but they are individuals in need if love and restoration. Each one is a child God can't bear to live without. Being with them for only a few days in June opened my eyes to a world I have never really experienced. The tattered and dirty clothes are nothing compared to the mindset that has them fighting for survival, no matter the cost. Who else could Christ be telling us to love? He came to seek and save the lost. These are young boys with potential and a purpose in Christ. Imagine if they only knew. This beginning time will be a lot of learning (Swahili, politics, life) and building a foundation to get these boys off the streets. Spending time with them will be huge, as the main goal is to have them know that they are loved. The church there has a Sunday Tea ministry which brings them to church and has them worship together. I'll be working to further the ministry, since it has so much potential. They currently have no plan to get them off the streets. Some may need to go back to school or find a job. No matter what, much of my ministry will be helping them find opportunities to strengthen their own community. I know there will be challenges, but God is in control. Thank you all for your constant support and love. Each one of you has touched my life and strengthened my soul in ways you don't know. I will need your prayers and encouragement all the while, and I will miss you very much. Please contact isaiah55nairobi@gmail.com with thoughts, ideas, prayers, comments, info etc. (for example, if you know people living in Nairobi, or you want to come visit) : ) There will be much news to come, God is at work. Peace be to the brothers and sisters, and love with faith, from God the Father and LORD Jesus Christ. Grace be with all of you who love our LORD jesus Christ with love incorruptible. Ephesians 6:23-24Serving Him,Alyssa Magnusson oh, and for those of you who didn't get the title, it reads (in a fun accent): Can you believe it? I will be staying in Africa). kbye