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| Kevin is getting in his Land Cruiser on the streets of Mwanza |
Those were the words from our Landmark missionary Kevin Linderman as he greeted us at the Mwanza International airport (about the size of our garage behind the church) last Wednesday with his three boys in tow. It had been a long journey of 4 airplanes and more than 30 hours to reach them with our two small children, but we were so glad to be back in their presence and for the sweet days of fellowship we would enjoy.
The Lindermans have just celebrated their 5th year full-time on the field in Tanzania and as missionaries of the Landmark Church. It takes years to become fluent in a language and to be able to teach and preach in a way that people connect with the gospel. And the Lindermans had to learn two languages (Swahili & KiSukuma)! Clusters of churches throughout the Sukuma tribe have been started in partnership with their teammates. Some of the churches are vibrant and growing while others are struggling (just like here in America). Kevin devotes his time between new church planting and church maturation. Lots of time has to be poured into developing godly leaders to continue the momentum of recent years. We need to pray for God to raise up leaders who will lead their faith community in being the light in the midst of darkness. Witchcraft and curses remain the predominant lenses through which many Sukuma see the world. (If you haven’t read the article of the Sukuma witchdoctor who became a Christian several months ago, I suggest scrolling back through a few entries on this blog)
Our missionary staff around the world all make sacrifices. I wish all of you at home could have been a part of one of our conversations with several missionaries as they talked about life where there is no 9-1-1 service, police protection, and the realities of mob justice. Pray for our workers to be surrounded by God’s protection and peace in their lives.
The Lindermans are so grateful for all the love and support they receive from Landmark. The care packages, cards, emails, and prayers let them know that there is a base at home keeping the troops on the front lines well supplied. The coming weeks will bring a new baby into the Landmark family. Be sure to lift up Charity as she completes the final months of her pregnancy. Most of all, give thanks to God for bringing such wonderful people into our church family as partners in the gospel.
Well, it’s on to two more airplanes to Lilongwe, Malawi. Air Malawi is only running three hours late. We must be on Malawi time already!
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