Comments on: What’s in a name?

By: David Bell

David Bell — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 18:23:55 +0000

Jess, we shared this at Access this past Sunday night, reading the beginning in hopes of enticing people to continue on at home. Your post reminds me of the power of name calling in John 20 when Jesus says Mary’s name, and it is in that moment that she realizes he isn’t the gardener, but her Rabbi! Loved how you shared your heart here. You are where you belong!
Blessings.

By: Connie Sharp

Connie Sharp — Fri, 19 Jun 2009 11:57:45 +0000

Hi, I was looking for Christine, whom I met at the University Nursing Center in Upland, In. I am the Asst. Activity person she talked with.. Was wondering how she was doing? she told me all about her taking this trip. If you see her tell her hi from Upland, Indiana…Thank, Connie

By: Jess, James, Calum and Eilidh

Jess, James, Calum and Eilidh — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 13:54:59 +0000

Way to go Njoki. Great story, and we love the pictures. We know how quickly children trust you!
Love you.

By: Amy Sorrells

Amy Sorrells — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 11:24:34 +0000

Jessica–indeed, everything is in a name. I’m still weeping from reading about Peter’s journey to his new home. Oceans apart and with nothing to give other than our prayers, when we learned Peter’s name and his story, we might as well have moved him into our home. Perhaps you and your precious team have already read it, but I’m reviewing THe Hole in Our Gospel, by Richard Stearns of World Vision for the publisher, Thomas Nelson. All I can say is that you and Barry and every other part of your team are FILLING THAT HOLE. By bringing the names and faces to us, and by writing stories that make their tear-brimmed eyes stare deeply into ours–even across oceans–you are filling the hole that Jesus is aching for us all to fill. Thank you for giving us a way to help do that, too, through praying over you and loving these people through you. Thank you. (Here’s a link to the book if you’d like: http://tinyurl.com/b2uoql)

By: Jessica Shewan

Jessica Shewan — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 09:42:00 +0000

Hey guys! I’ve just learned that Njoki is a Kikuyu name with a long story attached to the meaning. From what I understand, it is traditionally given to a daughter when she is born after an older daughter has passed away. It’s as though the spirit of the one who passed on is alive again in her, so rather than give a second name to the same spirit, Njoki is used as a filler. Every name really has a story!

By: Bee

Bee — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 02:23:32 +0000

Reading about this first day brings Kenya back for me. I’d forgotten what a wonderful writer you are, and the pictures are beautiful. Can’t wait to read more stories!

By: Em Shake

Em Shake — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 01:16:00 +0000

Njoki, I must confess; after finding out the little boy was okay, I laughed when I thought of your horror after swinging your precious, new friend into the fence. I saw the entire event take place in my head. I’m so glad he wasn’t hurt and didn’t hate you forever.

I’m looking forward to reading more from you. Truly inspiring first post.

By: Annie

Annie — Tue, 16 Jun 2009 20:58:25 +0000

Your story reminded me of the time I accidently dropped the 2 or 3 year old boy I was playing with on his head. He was fine, but it was a traumatic few moments for both of us. It’s good that little kids are so resilient and forgiving.

Enjoy your time with the kids and learning to answer to a new name! I’m looking forward to reading more.

By: Brad Ruggles

Brad Ruggles — Tue, 16 Jun 2009 19:55:04 +0000

Great post Jessica (or should I say Njoki?). Love the insight into the culture and the story of meeting the little kids. I’m envious of your time there, your ability to interact with those kids face to face and see their bright smiles.

I’m continuing to pray for you and the whole team.

By: Susie Bennett

Susie Bennett — Tue, 16 Jun 2009 19:27:41 +0000

Jess a beautiful story. I cried as I remembered the faces of the children and the joy of sharing a few moments getting to know them..by name.Your story and pictures captured it all again for me. Thank you for that.