Kelly n Kenya

SHEM: Urban Missionary

2012-02-08T04:27:00.000-08:00

Many of you have asked to see Shem's videos... well, here is an awesome way to see all of them in one place... plus you can look at the cool new merchandise and learn a bit more about our ministry! Grace and Peace!

http://shem254.blogspot.com/

Seein the Light at the End of the Tunnel!

2012-01-17T04:18:00.000-08:00

I have learned a lot in my time at NEGST... but I thank God that I can see the light at the end of the tunnel: GRADUATION! "And then what?" you may ask. Well, I don't completely know. I know that I'd like to stay in Nairobi. I know that I'd like to use my various skills, passions and knowledge and serve this community. As of right now, I am compiling information for my CV and references. Then I will apply to various schools and NGOs. Only God knows what's up and I am just trusting Him. You can pray with me that He will lead me and that I will be able to get a job that will serve the community and also provide for my basic needs :) Thank you!

WAPE HABARI!

2012-01-17T04:13:00.000-08:00

THE MOMENT YOU'VE BEEN WAITING FOR!!!!!! (drum roll) Shem Otanga's new single: WAPE HABARI (Give Them the News!)

http://youtu.be/QtTQYD0rFfs

Getting Serious....

2011-07-15T06:06:00.000-07:00

About what?!!?
About everything!!!
Including actually keeping you guys updated on this blog!

A few days ago I had a long difficult discussion with my dad about what the future holds. And at the end of the day, I was exhausted and overwhlemed because I don't really know. But as I have continued to pray- God continues to comfort me saying that He knows the plans that He has for me. Isn't that comforting?!? If we could only learn to trust in God and continue to obey each step of the way, our lives would be less stressful and more pleasing to God. That is my desire!

I beleive that God has placed it upon my heart to work in Nairobi doing Sexual Abuse Aftercare and Education. I am toying with the idea of one day opening a center that will counsel, provide basic medical help, possibley one day a safe house, small groups, referals to lawyers, etc, etc, etc. Furthermore, i would like to go to schools, churches, conferences, etc and try to break down the stigma that is still strong about sexual abuse in Africa. Many believe that the victim was also part of the problem. Yes, I am sure that we have all had instances that in hindsight, we know we could have done something different... BUT NO ONE DESERVES OR ASKS TO BE VIOLATED! Some people have lived with the scars from sexual abuse for so long that it has become a part of their identity and I want them to know that there is a safe place, with safe people that they can come to and expereince real healing through Jesus Christ! Grace, forgiveness, love, hope, beauty- many of these things are lost when someone is violated in such a way and I want to be used by God to help them regain these things and their identity in Christ!

I am not sure if this is a dream that God will realize in the next year, 5 years, 10 years... but it is a passion and a dream that I would love to be a willing and available vessel to accomplish.

I am trying to network and build relationships with others who deal with various aspects of this in Nairobi and throughout the world.

Please pray with me that this dream will come to pass in God's time and way!

In other news: As many of you know, I had originally come to Kenya to get a MA in Missions (2 yr prog). About half way through my first year, I changed to a three year program (MDiv)and I thank God for leading me to make that decision. In this new program, I am able to get a better grounding in Bible and Theology and at the same time choose all the other classes that interest me! Changing to three years has been great, but it did add another year that I am spending and not really making money. (this is the part where I tell you to pray and ask God if you would like to partner with me in finances- if so, please email me- kelly.krammer@gmail.com)

I have, however, been blessed to be able to start private tutoring in Nairobi. This has been great in that it helps with monthly expenses and I feel like it is a ministry in itself. Most of my clients are Koreans who would like to improve their English in order to be more effective ministers in Kenya! How cool is that?!? I pray that God will conitnue to give me the time and ability to continue this ministry/job and that He would even add more students!

I also have been teaching on the Book of Acts with my boyfriend, Shem, at his church in Buru Buru. This has been great in many ways. One- it has brought Shem and I closer to God and to each other (which is my daily prayer). My favorite part of teaching has been the time we spend preparing the lesson together. Two- we have seen God do amazing things through the teaching of His word! One young man gave his life to Christ and many others are being challenged in their thoughts and actions to regain their identity as true Christians! Praise God!

Other than all of that, I have been in the studio alot... hehe! That may be misleading... I have written a song and have been tryign to record it for months, but have had issues with instrumentalists (please pray for that)... but most of my time in the studio has been in supporting Shem. He is laying down some awesome awesome songs!!! Its amazing what God is doing through him and his fellow artists/producers.

Along the same lines, Shem is part of a group called Wernono Family. Recently, they have had the vision to expand the group from merely a group of artists to an entire partnership/business that will eventually include a studio, equipment hiring, videos, basically anything having to do with entertainment... and they want to do it with the Spirit of Excellence! I, for one, am very excited about this vision and have hopped onboard to help in anyway possible- secretary, event planner.. what not! Please keep them in prayers and i am sure I will soon post a link on here for their really really awesome website- COMING SOON!!!

I have also been painting, reading, working out, learning kiswahili and trying to relax. I have about 6 more weeks before the third year of NEGST begins and I want to maximize the time I have to do (and not do) alot!

Thank you for your continued prayers and support!

A lil poem for 2010!!!

2010-12-30T10:24:00.000-08:00

Year 2010
is comin to an end.
O, the things I've learned
and the places I've been!

At NEGST, year one is done
and year two has begun.
I've learned a ton
and have grown closer to the Son.

I went from a place of loneliness and gloom
but now my relationship with Christ is in full bloom;
I'm in a place abounding with mercy and grace.
I pray that I'll continually and diligently seek His face.

I learned who my friends are in both tough and exciting ways.
I went to Paris and Ireland for a few days
where my family and different cultures and food I did find.
I even moved houses a few times, all great experiences in my mind.

God has worked through me in various ways:
leading Youth with Unlimited Potential on Mondays,
visiting Suvia Childrens Home once in a while,
and singing on the worship team with style!

The Lord has blessed me with many friends
both in Kenya and to the earth's ends.
I've also had the privileged of gettin to know a man...
and pray that through the test of time our relationship will stand!

As we enter 2011
I pray that we not only focus on heaven,
but also on earth-
I pray a new love will be birthed!

I pray that we can love God
and thus live holy lives.
I pray that we can love God
and thus truly love others!

May 2011 bring about repentance and forgiveness, love and grace, mercy and peace!
I love each of you and thank God for you in my life!

How do we respond to suffering? (sermon by Kelly Krammer for Homiletics class 2010)

2010-10-21T02:56:00.000-07:00

A 22 year old student at a theological college in the US paid her school fees by ministering to inner city youth. She married her “high school sweet heart” who worked mowing lawns and teaching handicap youth how to play basketball. They get the news: she’s pregnant! It’s a girl! On the big day, the husband rushes her to the hospital only to find out that the baby they had named Zoe (or life) was strangled by mom’s umbilical cord.

They suffered.

They courted for 7 years before marriage; everyone could tell they were in love. He loved to sing for the Lord; she loved to play and teach the children. They married in June. All their friends looked up to their godly relationship. Until one day, two months into their marriage, a drunk driver ran her over as she walked on the side of the street. She died upon impact; the drunk lived; the husband lived… in agony.

They suffered.

A ten year old girl stared into the beautiful brown eyes of her baby brother, her eyes filled with tears as she remembered her father and mother who died one after another due to AIDS. Her other brother returned from the river with a jerrican full of muddy water and a handful of unga. They stared at each other wondering if they would live to see another day.

They suffered.

Bad things happen to good people.

Often times we immediately ask: Why God? Why me? We did you do this? Or why didn’t you do that? And these are natural and even fair questions, but I would like to propose that the point behind the suffering is not always WHY?, but rather HOW?

I believe this is one point we can draw out of Job 2:7-10. As you are flipping your Bibles to this passage, let me give you the context around it. In the first chapter of Job we meet Job and his family. We find out that he was “blameless and upright, and one who feared God and shunned evil” (1:1)- a good person. We also get to peek into a meeting held in heaven in which God and Satan speak. God tells Satan about Job and Satan basically says, “Of course Job is a good person, he has everything he could ever want- his life is good. But I bet if he weren’t so comfortable, he would curse You.” So God says, “Let’s see… do what you want to him, just don’t hurt him physically.” God allowed Satan to bring suffering to Job. Job loses his property and children and instead of mourning, we see in 1:20, Job worshipped God. So Satan and God meet again and God gave him permission to harm Job physically, sparing only his life. That is where we pick up in 2:7-10. (READ)

Was there any reason why Job suffered? Any WHY? His friends later on try to give their answers saying there was sin in his life, he needs to repent, he is wicked…. And some may say that in the end, Job is more materially blessed and learned a great lesson on pride and humility.

But we must realize that Job was not being punished for anything he had or hadn’t done. It wasn’t a cause and effect thing… Although we can bring suffering upon ourselves because of sin as we see in

Gal 6:8- 8The one who sows to please his sinful nature, from that nature[a]will reap destruction; the one who sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life.

Although that can be true… God continually repeats that Job was blameless.

Job did not know about the conversations that God and Satan were having in heaven. He was just living his life and all of a sudden within two days, he had lost everything he owned, all of his children and now he was in pain, covered with boils all over his body. And in the end we see that God does not give us an answer to Why? Rather he tells us that we are even too small to ask that question… he’s angered by Job’s friends who tried to justify Job’s suffering and He blesses Job for persevering through suffering. So, could we say that this story is not about why we suffer, but rather how? In 2:8-10, I think we get a glimpse into how we should suffer.

1. By Acknowledging our suffering/pain.
“And he took for himself a potsherd with which to scrape himself while he sat in the midst of the ashes” (8).
Job did not pretend like he was not suffering.
I had a friend who came to me one day. She was coughing and sneezing, her eyes where bloodshot, she could barely breathe… or even stand. When I went to ask her how she was and see if there was anything I could do, she answered, “In the name of Jesus, I am not sick!!!” But the truth was, she was sick. Could Jesus heal her, sure… He is a healer, but don’t we need to be sick in order to be healed.
Job knew he was in pain, and he did as many would do if they had the same condition- he took himself to the place where the lepers would go, away from others, outside the city and he scraped his wounds.

In suffering, we should not only acknowledge our suffering, but also we can respond to suffering…

2. By holding fast to our integrity and faith in a sovereign God
“Then his wife said to him, “Do you still hold fast to your integrity? Curse God and die!” (9)
Job’s wife tried to discourage him. He was even tempted because he, himself knew that living in this pain and suffering was worse than being dead, and his wife held that in front of his face. But it is clear that his wife saw that he was still holding fast to his integrity. In the midst of all the pain and suffering, Job’s character was shining through- His faith in God remained strong. He did not completely understand what was happening or why, but he trusted that God knew and that God’s will and purposes were greater than his comfort.

We can respond to suffering…

3. By coming against discouragement
“But he said to her, “You speak as one of the foolish women speaks. Shall we indeed accept good from God, and shall we not accept adversity?”” (10).
Job came against discouragement from his wife. Job’s very own wife spoke as someone who rejects God. Job could have given into the discouragement, followed the foolish advice, but instead he shows his trust and confidence in God and does not heed to his wife.

We can respond to suffering…

4. By refraining from sin. Do not sin.
"In all this Job did not sin with his lips” (10).
That’s quite self explanatory. However, it is much easier said than done. How many of us have found ourselves in situations where pain and suffering seem so difficult that we begin to question God. We begin to doubt him. We doubt his sovereignty. We doubt his plans. We doubt his goodness. I know that I, for one, am not innocent of this. Some of us fall into pits of depression; often times it is in the face of suffering that many turn from God and resort to other coping methods besides God like drinking, love of another, witch doctors, medicine…etc.
Suffering can either make or break you. But God has set us up for victory; we must choose it!

Even in suffering, when you are tempted to doubt or sin against God- know that you can make it, that He will give you a way out.

Let me encourage you that when the devil, who comes to kill, steal and destroy, brings suffering your way, you should respond by:

1. Acknowledging your suffering/pain
2. Holding fast to your integrity and faith in a sovereign God.
3. Coming against discouragement.
4. Refraining from sin.

Let us pray.

My mommy....

2010-10-07T23:14:00.000-07:00

My mommy has been asking about when I would update my blog... so I thought I would do so quickly now. Life is good because God is good... when we start looking at like from a Kingdom perspective, we see a lot of amazing things and understand even our failures and sufferings in a different light.
I am currently on midterm break from school. I cant believe I have been in Kenya for over a year, but at the same time, I can totally believe it... life is here! My classes are pretty good this term. I have Systematic Theology with Dr Black- let me tell you, this guy is all about deconstructing our preconceived notions and brainwashed traditions and challenging us to think for ourselves and know what we believe and why. Its tough and amazing. Then there is homiletics (preaching)- will give my first exegetical sermon at NEGST in a week... any suggestions on passage to use? Greek- what?!? You know the saying "It's all Greek to me!" Imagine actually studying Greek... let's just say I took my midterm exam yesterday and left there like, "I either got 100% or 50%." Not a great feeling... but its over with and all i can do is pray that God will help through the rest of the three terms of Greek :) And finally, I have Pentateuch (first five books in OT). It is really interesting as well, seeing as though it is my first Bible book class at NEGST. I just turned in a paper on Deception on Genesis that really challenged me and made my ask questions I had never thought of asking before.
Then, there is ministry. I am still singing with Nairobi Chapel Worship team and loving it! Also, am leading YUP (Youth with Unlimited Potential). It is on NEGST campus. A lot of the youth seem to live their lives with little accountability or instruction on things that interest them, things that really matter to them in their lives as youth. We meet every Monday for a few hours. This term, we just finished our series on music (thank you Kerah and DJ Krowbar) and will begin our next series on relationships after the midterm break. God is doing amazing things in the lives of the youth- truly transforming their minds and therefore, there actions to be focused on Him and His ways! Also part of YUP, we have the YUP band- we try to lead chapel at least once a term... this is a time for the youth to get exposed in the area of using their musical gifts for the Lord... also been awesome!
Suvia Childrens Home is doing well. I visited a few months ago and plan on visiting Oct 23rd. I will update yall on how that goes. This time we are partnering with many people. My E-group (Bible Study) will do a program in the morning of songs and skits and crafts and games. We will eat lunch with the girls, then K-krew guys will do an awesome concert for the community. Furthermore, I have some amazing friends who are donating dresses and other things to the girls that we will deliver on that day! (Thanks to everyone involved!)
What else? Plan on giving some vocal lessons to youth. Tried guitar lessons again... but decided need to do it at a time when the time and passion are both there. Hope to start painting and writing songs again. Been supporting my three little girls from church. Friends are good, although the move off campus as changed many of those friendship dynamics in good and sad ways. My E-group is awesome- iMPRINT! Although, we have been going through some tough times- many friends and family members of iMPRINT members have passed away in the last two months (keep them in your prayers). Anything else will have to wait to be updated next time... I just got served uji by my wonderful roommates- Sally na Marion! Gotta go! Peace and love!

Just a little update...

2010-06-07T01:50:00.000-07:00

Sometimes I wish I were like those people who blog everyday about really awesome and mind-blowing things... and then I think, 'do i really want to blow my mind that often?' and decide to write a short update :)
So, we only have a few weeks of school left for this term. I have so many papers to write... and I know they will get done with the strength and grace of God. Am taking African Church History, Bible and Moral Issues, Introduction to Missions and Folk Islam. Its been an interesting term. Some of my favorite topics/papers have been on: Polygamy, Secular/Gospel Music, missions in the church, charms in folk Islam and how to practically apply history to the church in Africa now.
I have continued in singing at Nairobi Chapel. Am helping with YUP (Youth with Unlimited Potential) on campus (holla!). Am walking beside three little girls from my church working on memory verses, talking bout life and helpin out were i can. Got a band going with some of my fav people- haven't come up wit a name yet, but we have lead worship for a conference and will lead worship at chapel and a praise and worship night soon! Speaking of conferences... helped out with/attended a conference on grace and forgiveness with Christi (www.awakencoaching.org)- was amazing... God did some great stuff in us all!!! Started my new Ecclesia group a few weeks ago and it rocks!!! (which means we just ended Plug-in... which was amazing- thank you worship team group! And the retreat was... WOW!) And just trying to build relationships with people in the area- I really pray that God leads me to people who can build me up and walk in the same direction... and I pray that I can be that for others as well!
Excited to visit Suvia Children's Home again in just a few weeks! Also, excited because I may be moving off campus- please be praying about that. And am lookin at car stuff?!? And my friend KJ is comin from the US to visit for two weeks! Furthermore, I am actually going to get to see my family this summer. We will meet up in Europe! Yea! Moreover (i like this connecting words) excited about stacey's wedding in about a month (am on line... for first time in life!)
I had a bunch of friends leave Kenya this past month and that has been a bit tough... but please be praying for them. Rachel (my twin) went back to Malawi because she has been sick for long... we pray she will be able to come back in a years time. Memory (my prayer partner) went back to Zimbabwe... she will be getting married in Dec. Hannah (my lil sis) went off to college in the US. Thandiwe (she informs me, i am her "new social life") traveled to the states for a summer internship. After graduation in July, more people will be leaving- so pray for them and pray for me at the same time.
Overall, life is good... am living and learning and living and learning... I just pray that God will continue to mold me and renew my mind each day that I may become more and more like Him in all I do. I praise Him for His grace and forgiveness that is constantly there especially when I do wrong, knowingly, unknowingly, towards Him and others.

Striving for Greatness... changing the status quo... changing the world: Lessons from Mwende at Suvia Children's Home

2010-04-19T02:37:00.000-07:00

I have discovered that service is paradoxical in its nature. Every time that I feel that God has laid it on my heart to go serve or help or change, I come back from the experience myself served, helped and changed. This is no exception with Suvia Children’s Home.

About two years ago, I was part of a team who helped build various parts of the home. When we left, it was still unfinished and there were no children. I returned to Kenya in 2009 for schooling and on my first break, I traveled back to Suvia to find it filled with 26 vibrant and loving girls! The next break I had, I knew I had to return again. This time I went to visit the girls, but also to interview them so that World Servants can prayfully get each one of them sponsored. Through this process, I was able to get past the usual visitor’s songs and poems to learn a little bit about each girl with their own voice: their own story.

One such story was that of Mwende. I don’t know all of the details, but what I do know has changed my life. Mwende is one of the older girls at Suvia. She is a born leader and inspires us all to reach for greatness! Mwende’s parents and grandparents are no longer in her life through various circumstances. She was left in her early teens to take care of her younger siblings. There came a point when it was too much for her; she didn’t know how to be a mom- she tried to take her own life. Thank God that attempt failed because today she is a beacon of light to everyone she sees. She is determined to one day become the President of Kenya. I believe that that can happen and, more importantly, so does she!

The thing is that our world is made up of individuals, but it is also made of systems. It is important for an individual to have a dream, a drive, and natural abilities. If we work hard, we should be able to achieve our goals. But that is not always true. Many people get stuck in a system that does not allow them to reach their goals. Many people do not have the opportunities that others might have for many reasons.

So, I have begun to think (I know, a dangerous thing!) and I have not come up with a solution to all the world’s systemic issues and injustices. But I am thinking; I am challenging myself to not be okay with the status quo, but to strive for greatness- just like Mwende. I want bright, God-fearing, leaders like the girls at Suvia to not only reach their goals, but to change the world! So how does that happen? I am thinking about it… are you?

How can we each use our abilities and resources to change the world for the better?

PICTURES

2010-04-14T10:05:00.000-07:00

If you want to see pics of my life... check em out at http://kellynkenya.shutterfly.com/

Life Keeps Goin n Goin n Goin...

2010-04-12T05:32:00.000-07:00

Last term went well. I learned a lot in class and out.
Classes: Power encounter, Christian Relations with Muslims, Islam in Africa, Biblical Theology of Mission, African Traditional Religion and Church History. (Hope to write a few separate blogs on some of these, maybe?!?)
I also sung in the praise team at my Nairobi Chapel and got "plugged in." I am finally feeling like I know people here and am part of something... praise God!
After the term was over, I was able to do a bit of traveling. I first went to Kali to visit Suvia Children's Home again. Loved it! The children truely have been a blessing to me. I love playing and talking with them. And seeing their resilience and perserverance even when life has thrown them some curve balls.
My friend and sister, Nidah, traveled there with me and together we interviewed the girls (in English, Kiswahili and Kikamba- thanks Nidah!). Prayfully, these interviews will help to get the girls sponsors. We are currently looking for people who are willing to help the girls with food, clothing, school fees, etc. (If you, or anyone you know, are interested in doing so, please contact me!)
After, Suvia, I traveled with a bunch of friends to Naivasha. We camped and climped Mt. Longonot! It was really fun bonding with friends and seeing the beauty of God's creation.
Then I went with a different group of friends to Isebania, which is at teh border of Kenya and Tanzania. We stayed with Tom's sister's (Christine) family the first night. After which, we traveled out to the village! This was my first experience of a village that looked like the picture of an African village I have always had in my head. They lived in huts made of a special kind of mud/clay. The huts were situated in a circle with a stick fence closing in the gaps. This way, the animals could come in at night and be protected. The family was huge and really warm and generous. The father and his three wives and inumerable children all lived in the compound. The family grows and dries tobacco. It was here that I ate the best ugali ever made of cassava and had the coolest shower ever- sorrounded by bright green palm branches, the shower was only tall enough to cover up to my shoulders, so I was able to see the entire 'country side' while splashin myself with warm water!
We traveled back to Christine's house the next day and stayed for two days (one day longer than had planned bc Nidah got sick, pole sana Nidah). Then we came back to campus. The next day, I was blessed with the opportunity to go with my plug-in group and some other members of Nairobi Chapel to do some ministry in Kiberia (huge 'slum'). We did some home visits of parents whose children go a program that we eventaully helped out with. We brought them some flour, soap, tea leaves, etc and talked to them about Christ. We prayed with the parents. Three people gave their lives to Christ! Thank you Jesus! Then we went and helped with the children's program! It was an amazing, life changing experience.
Now, school has started again. I have my first classes tomorrow. Most of you already know that I changed programs from MA Missions to MDiv General. This means different classes with different people and different professors and also an extra year of studying! It also means that this term is going to be quite light! I have four courses: African Church History, Folk Religion, Bible and Moral Issues and Intro to Missiology (even though I have taken like 8 missions courses...). Because its light this term, i hope and pray I will be able to be more involved with the community and church!

No class... now what?

2010-01-01T07:19:00.000-08:00

We had the entire month of December off to "rest." Where did the time go anyways? I have two more days before class begins again! What did I even do?

First, I went to a children's home in Dagoretti. We did a lesson about sharing and colored and sung songs and made clothe pin angels. It was great!

Well, then I was pretty sick- what's new. After, I traveled to Mombasa with my friend from Church. While there we went to the beach. I learned to wind surf. We stayed with her aunt and uncle who were awesome! We went to see some animals. We also went to this sweet cultural village thingy! You walk through the woods and see different examples of homes of 7 of the 42 tribes in Kenya. They also speak in thier language, dance, sing, grind millet and corn... it was really informational and exciting! We also visited a friend in Milindi which was great as well!

Then came home and planned, shopped for, baked for and then executed an amazing Christmas dinner/program with friends and fam on compus! David and I baked for hours- cookies, banana bread, chicken, green bean cassarole and deviled eggs and then on the day of Christmas the american food and traditions were met with food and traditions from Kenya, Zambia, Lyberia, Nigeria, Ethiopia, Denmark and Congo. It was an international extravaganza!

Then I was sick again... what the heck!?? Then I traveled to Machakos and Kali. Had an amazing time there with the Kisuas! Went to Suvia Children's Home. This is the orphanage that GSLC helped build last year. When we left much was unfinished and there were no children. Now there are 26 wonderfu, vibrant, smart and gifted girls there! They sung, danced, gave poems for us. They also introduced themselves and told us what they wanted to be when they grew up. One wanted to be the president of Kenya! I believe she can with support and opportunities... so please pray for all of the girls and please search your heart if you would like to sponser one of the children this year!

Also while in Kali, I was able to attend a youth rally which was soo packed! that was encouraging and exciting! I ministered with two songs (sing and guitar) that I pray blessed the youth's lifes: Trading My Sorrows and Light the Fire. The youth were so amzing though with their songs and dance and an original wonderful song by Bahola.... wow!

I returned to NEGST in time for New Years! Which was probably the best one yet! I ate dinner with the fam and freinds- chapo, katchumbari, cabbage, pilau, stew, chai.... We then ushered in the new year with songs and dance, prayer and a Word from papa! Then we headed out to TSO (Totally Sold Out)! SO awesome! We danced all night to Kenyan Gospel artists! Wow!

In the middle of all these things, i was able to hang out with some pretty awesome people. I learned a new game called Settlers, which I am addicted to. I read a book. Watched the entire first season of Criminal Minds... love it! And just enjoyed myself. At the same time, have been in reflection and prayer... about service, forgiveness, and newness. Please pray with and for me!

What's goin' on?!?

2009-12-09T03:30:00.000-08:00

Seriously, how does one update you on her entire life over the past few months in a short enough manner that you will actually enjoy reading this? I have no clue! But here is my attempt!

The term went well, I hope and think... I will recieve my grades shortly... but I am finished with all of my assignments. Some of my favorite assignments were: visiting a mosque and writing about it, writing about my view of Scripture, and going into town and talking to people about Christ. Those were the fun ones, there were 27 others that weren't quite as fun... but my brain is mushing with new info... don't worry?!?!

I have joined a church! Praise God... I thought after Koinonia, nothing would compare! The name is Nairobi Chapel and I enjoy the sermons and worship and although it is big, there are many opportunities to "plug in" and get to know others.

I have also been involved in many different ministries. I have helped out the with children's Bible Club on campus, sung on praise team in chapel, supported a small childrens home in Dagoretti (pic to right... sorry can't make it face the right way, but just crick your neck a little bit!), and will begin helping with the young adult and missions ministries at my church in Jan!

Being the rep for student council was good. I really got to know more about the school and the difficulties and strengths that come in keepin it going, etc. We are really experiencing financial difficulties... but we are in the hands of God.

We have done many surprise birthday parties! Nidah, Bro, Zippy! Those were fun! I have traveled to visit friend's homes! Singles fellowship has been great with our random potlucks, movie and game nights! Traveled with the football team (as the "team doc"). Also, I have been exploring more of the city! I love my new found friends and family here and am grateful for them!

On a sad note, there have been many deaths while I have been here. Most of whom I have known indirectly. But it has been a grave reality here in Africa, much more common and it spares no one- baby, newly wed, parents, friends and elderly. Please pray for my friends who are dealing with such tragedies. And live your life in love and in line with God now because you are not promised tomorrow!

This break I plan on traveling to the coast (Mombasa and Milinde) with my friend, Lorna. And then going to Machakos, Kali and Masii with my friend, Zippy. I am very excited- and need to start taking my malaria meds just in case!

Speaking of meds- I have been sick on and off all term... with diagnosis such as malria, food poisioning, typhoid, amoebia, bacterial infections... not so fun... but I am still alive! Praise God!

I have really appreciated everyone who has emailed, real mailed, facebooked, and skyped me! Although Kenya is great, sometimes being in a familiar culture with familiar faces sounds really good and can get me down... so please do not forget me out here and continue to contact me and pray for me!

Along with praying, i have a few items that would be very helpful in ministry if you might be able to collect and send:
1. soccer balls (you can send them deflated, all sizes)
2. children's books
3. jump ropes
4. any laptop that you might not be using
5. english Bibles
6. children's Gospel/ christian CDs
7. markers, crayons and coloring books

All can be sent to me at:

Kelly Krammer
NEGST
PO Box 24686
Karen 00502
Nairobi, Kenya, Africa

Thank you so much and be blessed!
Also, scroll down for prayer request updates.

Change

2009-09-23T05:18:00.000-07:00

Bwana asifiwe! (Praise the Lord!)

I praise God that He has provided for me to come to such an amazing theological school that is equiping and training so many wonderful men and women of God who are truly world changers in the name of Jesus Christ!

***

I know that my God is a provider and so, right now, I am coming to you asking for help.

NEGST, as an institution, is suffering financially right now. I am not saying this to bring shame upon my great school, but rather to get the word out and ask for help. Furthermore, individual students are not being able to pay their school fees and some are going with little or no food for their families. Due to health regulations, we had to remove asbestos from the roofs, which was expensive. Due to the economy, it is hard to find jobs and even harder to find jobs that pay much. And due to the nature of school, it is difficult to have a job while one is studying. Many of our staff are going unpaid as of right now and many of the things we would like to do to further our learning and ministry are not going to be able to happen. This is just a small snapshot of the many problems facing us today.

There are so many wonderful people from all over the world at NEGST who are all here because of their calling by God. We are together in believing that God is good, He is loving, He cares about the needs of His people. I pray that you can find it in your heart to help us.

***

Here are just a few of the names, countries and callings of NEGST students:

Rachel- Malawi- teach adults to read so they may study their Bible

Eve- Kenya- evangelize and mentor young Muslim women

Karen- UK- medical missionary to Gambia- outreach to Muslims

Anson- India- ministry in Trebels

Duressa- Ethiopia- pastor to Ethiopian refugees in Kenya

Bridget- Kenya- mentor and raise up youth to own their faith and live it out

Haruna- Nigeria- Orphanage

Geleti- Ethiopia- preach, teach, pray and study

Aaron- US- Muslim outreach

Fabien- Rwanda- Evangelism

Lusato- Tanzania- equip men and women for missions in TZ

***

If you would like to help in anyway, please contact me at: kelly.krammer@gmail.com and we will figure out the best way for you to be a part of what God is doing at NEGST!

Thank you and God bless!

***

2 Cor 8:2-5

2Out of the most severe trial, their overflowing joy and their extreme poverty welled up in rich generosity. 3For I testify that they gave as much as they were able, and even beyond their ability. Entirely on their own, 4they urgently pleaded with us for the privilege of sharing in this service to the saints. 5And they did not do as we expected, but they gave themselves first to the Lord and then to us in keeping with God's will.

1st Month at NEGST

2009-09-23T04:20:00.000-07:00

God bless you all!
I am sorry it has been so long since I have written. I have now been at Nairobi Evangelical Graduate School of Theology for about a month. It has been absolutely amazing! I am learning so much in classes and in my general interaction with so many people from all over the world.

When I first got to Kenya, I moved into my flat. I was the only one there for a few days, but was blessed to have met my neighbor, Helen, who took me in as her own and showed me the ropes! After a few days, my friend, Rachel, from Malawi, moved in! We began our orientation together and learned everything you would ever want to know about NEGST (www.negst.edu). We also met all of the other first year students from all over the world, Nigeria, Ethopia, India, Tanzania, Rwanda, etc... It was so amzing to see how God brought us all together for His glory- we have many differences but are united in Christ!

The following week, classes started! I am taking Hermenuetics, Early and Medieval Church History, Comparitive Studies of Religion, Post-graduate Research and Writing, and Evangelism. I am learning so much from my professors and classmates. In Hermenuetics I have really had to dive within myself and see how do I view Scripture- what are some of my biases and beliefs when it comes to the Word of God? Church History has been amazing- I am learning so much from the failures and successes of the early church. We are currently learning about Hinduism and Buddhism in my Comparitive Studies of Religion course which is very interesting especially because my professor once was a Korean Buddhist himself and now he is a Christian missionary! Research and Writing is giving me an opportunity to research any aspect of missions that I want to- I think that I will be looking at the effect of service based missions on the community served. And Evangelism class has created great discussion and has challenged me in sharing my faith with others.

Outside of class, I was elected the student council representative for 1st years which is very humbling. I thank God for the position and ask that you pray for me as I represent other students. I have also joined the praise team for chapel which is great, but challenging since I dont know most of the songs. We sing a lot of Christian Contemporary, hymns and songs in Swahili. I have also been teaching the children at Bible Club on Saturdays. And as a teacher, I get frequent visits in my flat from all of the children- I really love it!

I am still praying for and looking for a church in the community where I can worship and be fed and eventually serve at. I have attended many great churches so far and have met many great people at each one.

The first week, I went to church with a friend named Karen. We met up with our friend, Mary, a refugee from Sudan. Mary has an amazing story about the faithfulness of God. (which I might write in a later post) But now, through the grace of God, she is teaching young, single HIV positive mothers how to make paper beads. Through this teaching she is able to share with them Christ and they are able to make a little bit of money to support their children. (if you would like to help support this ministry, the jewelry is fantastic, just email me and we will see what we can do!!!)

God is great how He turns what we may have considered bad luck into a blessing. Last weekend my room flooded- but my friend, Lucy, and I were able to move into family housing which is really nice!

Also this past weekend, I was able to attend AFLEWO (Africa: Let's Worship), an all night praise and worship extravaganza! I felt like I was back home going to a concert with so many young adults! The only thing different was they kept switching back and forth from English to Kiswahili. It amazed me that thousands of people were completely fluent in the same two languages! Crazy! Pray that I learn more Kiswahili!

Well, as hard as it is, that was my attempt to sum up a whole month. But I will leave you with this: a list of things that are different from the US- not better or worse, just noticably different.

1. Matatus- public transportation- they are small 14 passengers vans in which they squeeze about 20 people along with a guy who collects money who just hangs out the door as we speed down the pot-holed roads weaving in and out of traffic.
2. Food- lots and lots of vegetables (bought from the open market) all of which are eaten with chipoti (simular to tortillas, but way better), ugali (simular to nothing... mushy goodness) or rice. Most food is eaten with your hands- dont worry everyone washes their hands before meals. Meat is not the center of every meal... but you can go directly to the slaughter hosue to purchase it (and step in all the blood and... )
3. Showers- there's no hot water, so instead of taking a cold shower, I boil water and put it in a basin and basically give myself a sponge bath.
4. Laundry- done by hand and hung on the line
5. Hand Shake- in the US, I might greet someone that I have never met before with a hand shake or maybe someone who is of great importance. Here, they shake everybody's hands everytime they see them.
6. Mosquito nets- have you ever woken up in the morning forgetting where you are and look around to see that you are entrapped in a large white sheet! Yea, me too... but its good because I hate being bitten by mosquitos, its just funny because you can hear them running into your net all night!
7. Technology- I have no TV, no microwave, no internet in my house... but guess what I am still alive! In fact its great!
8. Language- Mostly everyone here is fluent in 2-3 languages. And even english is a bit different. My friend asked me the other day when my "bathday" is. I responded, "everyday." She said, "Your bathday is everyday?" I said yes. She said, still in disbelief, "You were born everyday?" "Oooo... birthday!!!"

There is so much more, but thats jsut a quick list... and in reality, because of the diversity at NEGST, it is even a different culture within Kenya!

Two days...

2009-08-24T08:03:00.001-07:00

God bless you!
I just wanted to let yall know that I will be leaving the US this Wed, Aug 26th. My family and I will leave in the morning to drive up to Chicago. My first flight is out at 6:00pm. I will fly to London that night at which point I will have a 12 hour lay over! Then I will continue my journey to Nairobi, Kenya and arrive there at 6:30 am on Friday August 28th. (Total travel time, STL-NBO: 44 hours!)

Please keep me in your prayers and stay in touch!

Kelly Krammer
Nairobi Evangelical Graduate School of Theology (www.negst.edu)
PO Box 24686
Karen 00502
Nairobi, Kenya, Africa

Email: kelly.krammer@gmail.com

Skype: Free online voice and video calling- www.skype.com
search: kelly.krammer

And, yes, i am now on Facebook?!!?

Thank you!

"We loved you so much that we were delighted to share with you not only the Gospel of God, but our lives as well because you had become to dear to us" 1 Thess 2:8

Why?

2009-08-04T07:11:00.000-07:00

Over the past few months, many people have asked me why I am going to Kenya. And just today I got an email from a friend who lives in Kenya and he reminded me that I had made the mistake that I feel so many do when traveling to other parts of the world. In my last post I talked about the dangers of Kenya but I never talked about the beauty. I talked about the issues the people face but I never talked about the people. So let me take sometime to give you... a different picture:

Why am I going to Kenya? I believe God is sending me there. I believe that the safest and best place to be is in God's will.

Last summer I traveled to Kenya with my parents' church out of St. Louis. While there we helped to build parts of an orphange in a village a few hours outside of Nairobi. We also went to schools and homes to share Christ and His love and hope. One of my favorite moments while in Kenya last time was when one of the women at the orphange build site named Beatrice asked me to go with her to get some water. I said yes, thinking that it might take 30 minutes to an hour... (which would be a lot to go for some water here in the US, huh?!?). We picked up two empty 20 gallon yellow jugs and began our journey. We walked up hill for about an hour an a half. Despite the fact that we did not speak the same language, Beatrice and I had some great conversations. The whole way up, she would point at something and tell me how to say it in Kikamba (her language) and then I would teach her how to say it in English. We would laugh at eachothers' failed attempts to say the words and communicate in hand signals. We finally reached a small little spring like thing. Beatrice took the yellow jug from me and place it under the spring. She took my hand and pulled me close wanting me to take over holding the jug. So I did. As I watched the water fill, thinking about how heavy this would be, I looked around for Beatrice and she was no where to be found! I started to panic slightly and tried to think if I knew my way back, just in case. And then she appeared from the middle of these tall pole looking plants. She had two of them in her hand. She looked at me, laughed and rushed over when she saw that the water was overflowing from the jug. She pulled it out from under the spring, used some parts of the plants to tie a peice of a black garbage bag to the hole on the top and then took homemade rope and tied it around the handle. She placed the other jug under the water and handed me one of the poles, showing me what I should do with it by biting off a huge section. So I followed... it was sugar cane!!! When she finished filling and preparing the second jug, we began our decent back to the build site. We placed the rope on our foreheads and the jugs on our spines. She walked so gracefully. I, on the other hand, spent much time trying to pull the rope off my forehead with my hands and readjusting the jug that seemed to hit my backbone in perfect ways to make me wanna scream. We veered off the road to the left, taking a short cut and Beatrice looked at me with her hand out. She wanted me to give her my jug. I said I would be fine, but she would not let me walk down this extremely uneven and dangerous terrain. So I handed the jug to her. Beatrice was about half my size in hieght and wieght (which is not too hard seeing that I am not the tiniest thing), she had no shoes on and a skirt. And I watched as she walked down perfectly without slipping, sliding or falling. After she had gone quite a few feet, I began to walk with my athletic self, shoes and pants... and my first step I slid and Beatrice, although she could not see me, knew what had happened and gave one of those, "see" laughs. We got back to the road and she handed me the second jug and we finished walking back to the site. Round trip, it took us a little over three hours to fetch water. Beatrice smiled and gave me a hug. And I hugged her back knowing that she could have taken any of the other Kenyan women with her and been back her in half the time, but she chose me. It was amazing to me how much we take for granted transportation, water in the fridge, language, wheels, etc, etc, etc. Beatrice and the other women wake up early every morning to get water from the spring to be able to cook for their families. It was an amazing experience with an amazing person.

Also while in Kenya, I was given the opportunity to preach at a church. When I first showed up, the pastor and his wife invited me and my family into a small room in the back of teh church. We sat down and he handed me a soda (shows great hospitality) and we began to talk about ourselves, our churches, and what would be happening that day. His wife would be my translator. So he warned me that I would only be able to say a sentence at a time and then I would need to wait while she interpretted. So thats what I did. The Lord had given me a sermon about how we are all the same in God's eyes. There is no difference between the way God sees, loves, and treats us because of who we are or what we look like. I had asked my Kenyan friend, Alex, to make sure that the sermon was true to who I am, but could reach the Kenyan people. I did not want to speak about things that they might not understand or relate with. The sanctuary was a small (I am not good estimating size, but I would say) 15 ft x 15 ft room with dirt floors. People were packed from wall to wall and out into the street. They held onto every last word that I (well, the translator) said. Many eyes filled with tears and when it was time for the alter call, one 15 year old boy came forward. It was amazing. They took up an offering. At which time people brought up eggs, chicken, coffee beans and placed them on the table next to the offering basket. That was their tithes and offering, it was all they had. And as a percentage, I am sure they gave more than required of them. After the service the women came up and place their hands on my head. I was informed they wanted some of my "annointing." Later on that week, I saw the pastor and his wife. They called me over and the wife ran to get something from inside the church. As she left, the pastor spoke to me about how I was meant to be in Kenya and how God has some mighty plans to use me there. He said, "You must return." I could not give him my word, but I said, "I will try." And at that moment I knew I had to do more than just try. His wife came back carrying a bag. She handed it to me and I opened it up and inside was a beautiful purse. She said to me that all the women in the church gave some money to buy it for me (I began to cry, so humbled). It was a Bible bag. Respected women of God place their Bible in the bag and nothing else... it is meant only for your Bible. I was so humbled that the women who gave eggs and chicken for an offering would spare what little they had to get me a Bible bag.

These are just two of many stories of the wonderful hearts of the people in Kenya.

Before we boarded the bus to leave to go back to Nairobi, I wrote in the sand, "My heart is here." And that is where, atleast part of it, has stayed. I am returning to reunite the parts of my heart. I am returning to be amongst some of the most wonderful and giving people I have ever met. I am also returning to bring hope, love, Jesus Christ, to many people who do endure trials and tribulations beyond what I can imagine. I am returning to fufill God's calling for my life at this moment in time. I am returning not because I am strong, bold, couragous, perfect (because I am not and never will be any of those), but rather because I want to glorify and honor my God, the one and only God, who has called me there and will see me through.

The Bigger Picture

2009-07-29T12:34:00.000-07:00

...that was the name of the sermon God spoke through me on July 19th. I praise God for those of you who came to support me. I pray you left encouraged and changed! For those of you who weren't able to make it... you can contact my church (http://www.koinoniabc.org) and get a CD ($5) or you can read some of the main points here, although it won't be the same!
*****
Daniel 3:13-15 (yea... go get your Bible!)

Background:

King Nebuchadnezzar was having dreams. He wanted someone to not only interpret teh dream, but also tell him what his dream was. No wise man in Babylon could do that, so he was gonna have them all killed. But God revealed the dream and its interpretation to Daniel who went to the king. Basically it was a dream about this big statue made of different materials... the head was made of gold and represented King Neb who was the first great king on earth. This gave King Neb literally a big head! He erected an image of gold and proclaimed that everyone needed to fall down and worship the image of gold when they heard the music and whoever did not would be thrown into a blazing furnace.

Picture this:

You come into work at 8:17 (supposed to be there at 8:00... but come on, thats on time!) There is a huge crowd of people and your boss is standing on a platform in front of them all with a... something covered in a large cloth. Your boss calms the crowd and rips of the cloth unveiling a large statue of... himself... and informs everyone that "if yall want to keep your jobs, when I click play on my ipod, yall must bow down and worship this statue." Your first thought is, "Bow down and worship what?" But then you start thinking- 'things are pretty tight right now... if I lose this job, in today's economy, I surely wont find another one... what about the house, the children, food, the cable, internet... God, you want me to be a provider...' You default to the whole "God knows my heart..." I will bow on the outside, but on the inside, I still love you Lord. No- your outward actions whould reflect your inner thoughts, beliefs and convictions!

So- that might not happen... but there are many things of this world that are constantly tempting us to bow down and worship them. What am I talking about? There are things that we place more value or trust in than God... that might be ourselves, our education, another person (husband, wife, mom, pastor...), money, cars, houses...

Daniel 3:16-18

Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego refused to bow to the image of gold. They had followed the rules until they came into direct conflict with the commands of the Lord: no other gods before Him and do not make idols. In this case, in order to gain the favor of the king, they would have to disobey and dishonor God.

We have many decisions in our day to day life where we have to choose between the world and God- we cannot please both. What holds you back from obeying God? Why do we fear what people will do or think of us more than we fear what God will do or think of us?

Bottom issue: TRUST

We don't follow what He says for us to do or not do becasue we don't trust that He has a bigger, better plan.

The 3 Hebrew boys would not disobey God whether He rescud them from the fire or not... their faith was not dependant on he end result, but rather on the God who knows the plan...

Illustration:
I like to draw and while I was writing this sermon God placed a picture on my heart and told me to draw it. I was like, "No, God, I am writing a sermon." (Seriously, Kelly?!?) So I picked up the marker and started drawing in an artform called pointillism. This is were a whole bunch of little dots come together to create a picture:
If you look at just a small, zoomed in portion of the picture, you will only see dots. It doesnt make much sense and you cant tell what the bigger picture is. That is just like our lives. I am one dot, you are one dot, I can see past and present dots, my financial dot, my mom, my dad... the things and parts of our lives that we see- that seemingly dont fit together and can be chaotic at times. When I focus on my dots, I cant see past them.

But we must trust that what the Word says is true: All things... all the dots in our lives... work together for the good of those who love the Lord and are called according to His purposes... and praise God- He can see the big picture!

All those dots come together and make sense. God had a plan... a way to redeem us since the beginning of time and His name is Jesus: All of our dots work into that plan! We can't always see the bigger picture, but God works so intricatley in wach and every moent of our lives... He has His hand in every dot!

My past dot:

When I look at this picture, I see one of my dots somewhere along the blood dripping liek a tear from Jesus' eye. There was a time in my life where I could not see God in anything- a time when I believed that suicide was the only way out, a time of isolation and depression. I would dream of ways of killing myself, like 'accidentally' driving off the side of the road in the rain. I could have felt alone in a room filled with people. But I praise God for that dot! I praise God for bringing me through it! I praise Him for allowing me to still be here today to be a testimony of what God can do! God spared me death- that I might be here today to speak to (write to) one of you... God spared me death so that I can continually walk in His ways wach day and shine for Him... God spared me death that I may step into my calling as a missionary...

Kenya:

If you are reading this blog, you probably know I am moving to Kenya. What you might not know is that I will be leaving everyone and everything that I know: my family, my church, my job, language, culture, home... to be obedient to God. And in this obedience I will be entering into a land full of war, AIDS, famine, drought, hopelessness... I will be living in a city with some of the highest rates of rape, murder and violent theft in the world.

I have trust in God... He has already shown Himself fatihful because of how He delivered me from my dot of depression...

Get back to the text: The 3 Hebrew boys were thrown into the furnace...

Daniel 3:25 (read it- its great!)

King Nebuchandezer called them out of the furnace and there was not a mark signifying that they had been in the fire... nothing on their skin or clothes.

He showed Himself faithful by rescuing the 3 Hebrew boys from their dot of a fiery furnace! But He didnt just rescue them out of the furnace- He was in there with them! (thats your shouting cue!!!)

We must trust that even if we are facing a fiery furnace, when things dont look promising- God has a bigger, better plan! He knows the bigger picture! No matter what the outcome, I will not bow to any other god! I will not disobey or dishonor Him!

All of my dots and all of your dots are there... in that picture... they are working together for your good, ye who loves the Lord!

Don't let the dots you see control your faith in an all powerful, all knowing God- who loves you and cares for you so much that He sent His one and only Son, Jesus Christ, to die so you may live!

This is the Word of God for the people of God... hear it and do it!

Youth Mission Trip

2009-07-29T11:49:00.000-07:00

At the beginning of July, Pastor Corey and I took 9 youth from Koinonia to the Navajo Reservation on a mission trip through YouthWorks! I know its taken a while to blog on this experience because life has been (and still is) crazy! But I did want to just give some highlights! We went for an entire week and stayed at a mission at which we slept on air mattresses and shared 2 bathrooms for 40 girls(there were a few other church youth groups there too)! This was a humbling learning experience for most of our youth in its self. We split into crews and did two days at Kids Club- providing attention and structure to the children's lives. We played games, gave piggy back rides, did memory verses, sung songs about Christ, performed skits, made crafts, read books and in general, just loved on the children! We spent the other two days painting houses... this is important because paint helps seal the houses but it also allows the residents to have pride in the place in which they live and gives us an opening to be able to share with them the love and hope of Christ. We painted Grandma Rabbit's house (they call her this because she has all gray hair except on the sides, its bright white and looks like rabbit ears). It was great to get to know and serve her and her family. During the evenings we had time to learn about the Navajo culture by story tellers and dancers and also time for worship and reflection. During one of the "church group" times (time where you meet with just the people from your church) we talked about what Christ is saying to you, personally, today. It was an amazing night! The youth were challenged to change and to be bold and to step into their callings. They were challenged to TRUST God with everything- their past, present and future. They knew that they had to start or stop doing things in their daily life and in doing that, they might lose friends but they had to trust that God has a bigger and better plan for them even when it doesn't feel like it at the moment. They had to let go of some FEAR that had bound them. It was so amazing to see youth call out to God in such a fervent way and I pray that their fire, their passion does not die, but rather grows. I pray that they will always remember the mission trip and how it felt to serve and to really seek Christ! Thank you to all those who supported in prayers and money... the youth of Koinonia and the people of the Navajo Nation will be forever changed!

Invited...

2009-06-05T16:46:00.001-07:00

I have begun this blog about ten times and erased it because no words can describe how humbled and loved and honored and special I feel when I think of what the Lord has done for me... where I have come from and where He is taking me(tears). I could go on forever about how great God is and how I have seen His power in my life- but thats not why I am writing today.... I am writing because I want to invite you to a very special occasion (well, its special to me). Recently, by the grace of God, I have graduated from Koinonia Church Minister Training Class. Now, each week my pastor is taking me under his wing and discipling me to be a more effective minister of the Gospel- allowing me to write sermons and minister to him. All this to say, on July 19th, I have been given the great honor and responsiblity to preach at my church for the first time. It will also be my last Sunday at Koinonia Church before I head off to St. Louis and then finally land in Kenya for the next two years. So here are the details:

***

Kelly's first sermon at Koinonia

Last Sunday at Koinonia

July 19th

10:45 service

Koinonia Church

1151 Mansfield Webb Road

Arlington, TX 76002

***

Please keep me in your prayers. It is a great responsibility to preach- and I only want to say what God would have me to say. I pray that I am able to be diligent in my studies and prayers. I pray that everyone that comes whether they come to support me or to hear the word- leaves changed by the presence of God. Thank you and be blessed!

Shine

2009-05-29T03:31:00.000-07:00

Have you ever had one of those nights where you know you are tired, you know you would really like to sleep, but God had something else in store? Thats been tonight. I have been waking up to pray for others, waking up to write down some sermon notes/ideas, and this last time I was woke up to pray for Kenya... and God placed this on my heart to share with yall.
*****
I had someone the other day ask me why I was going to Kenya when there are people right here who do not know Christ and who could use my help physically, spiritually and mentally and all I could say was because God has called me there (the only reason I believe I should go). I believe that God has called certain people to certain places because it is through those people that He will speak and show people mercy, grace, love, faithfulness... etc. Sometimes the fact that the people He sends look different, talk different, are different than the people He sends them to is on purpose because some people would not listen or recieve otherwise. Maybe God wants to break down some of those stereotypes and generalizations of who Americans are to Africans and who Africans are to Americans because in the body of Christ- we are all His children, we are all ONE in Christ, we are all the body of Christ- regardless of our skin tone, our background, our economic status, our nation. I know I am called to Kenya and although I also know that if I was disobedient or not willing, God could use someone else, I believe that it is such a responsibility, an honor, and a privlege to be His instrument, His vessel proclaiming the Good News of Jesus Christ and shining His love through service to the people of Kenya.
*****
Matthew 5:16 reads, "let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven." I do not take my calling lightly. Every word that comes out of my mouth, every action that I do or do not do is important... my pastor always says that as Christians, "we should invite people to look at our lives." One of Kirk Franklin's songs talks about how we might be the only Jesus that someone sees. We are not perfect, but even in our imperfections, God can and should get the glory. Often times as Christians and especially as ministers we might feel like our lives are under a microscope, that people examine every little thing we do and say... and I am thankful for that because it keeps us honest and accountable.
*****
People keep asking me, "Are you ready for Kenya?" And my response usually goes a little something like this, "Well, I am ready for tomorrow and tomorrow I will be ready for the next day and so on until it is the day that I am to go to Kenya- and then I believe God will have prepared me and I will be as ready as I will ever be!"
I have the plane ticket, visa, and passport. I have applied for housing and Kenya pupil pass. I have paid half of my first semester's tuition. I am slowly giving away many of my material possesions. I am raising money through earring sales and donations. But more importantly, right now, God is really preparing me spiritually. He has hooked me up with my first ever prayer partner, who I am grateful for! I just finished a 3 week fast and- whoa! God really spoke to me during that time and molded and shaped me! I praise God for my pastor who has taken me under his wings and is allowing me to write and give a sermon each week for him so that I can grow into a more effective minister of the Gospel. I am thankful for all the saints He has placed me around who are praying for me and loving on me. I humbled by the fact that God loves me and cares about me so much that each of you are in my life!
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Please just keep me in your prayers that I will do God's will above all else and in the face of any percecution, trail and discomfort. Pray that I may share both the Gospel and my life with those in Kenya and all over the world (1 Thess 2:8). I am praying for you- and if you need anything or have any specific prayer requests, please let me know- I am here for you because I love you- and I am not just saying that, I really do love each one of you who are reading this- because God loved me first, it is only right that I reflect that love to you! Be blessed!

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This pic was taken last summer in Kenya while on a house visit with some of the most vibrant and resilient children I have ever met!

Not gone yet!!!

2009-04-11T14:05:00.000-07:00

It is the day before easter Sunday- a day that we set aside to celebrate the fact that God sent His only son- Jesus Christ to the Earth to live a perfect life so that He could fufill the law. He was sacrificed as a holy and perfect lamb on the cross for our sins, as us! But He did not stay dead!!! He is all powerful! He is AWESOME! On the 3rd day- HE ROSE!!! Praise God! Thank you God for Your grace!
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I just finished peeling about 75 potatoes to make some yummy smashed potatoes for tomorrow's Easter lunch! And I thought I would sit down while they were boiling to let yall know whats going on right now in preparation for Africa... because I am not gone yet!
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I have been spending a lot of time getting my documentation stuff together: Kenyan Pupil Pass, Student Visa, passport, etc. I am also in need of raising about $10,000 more dollars. So I have been making earrings and scarfs and selling them (if you would like to purchase a pair- email me, they run from $10-$18, and you can request what you would like!) and been collecting from donations from my first support letter (thank you to those who have already donated... and to those who haven't- its not too late!)
Furthermore, I have been learning a little bit of Swahili and reading up on the culture and some of the needs and issues that are prevelant in Kenya. (Right now be praying because there is a drought and therefore a lot of hunger and hopelessness.) I am also in the process of giving away a lot of my stuff... I will only be able to take two suitcases and a carry on with me... so I wont need a lot of my stuff (if you know anyone who is in need of anything- email me!)
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Although preparation for Kenya takes up a lot of my time, thoughts and prayers... I still have a life here in Texas! I pray that God uses me where I am at and that I am never too future minded that I miss this period of my life- I know that I am here for a reason, season and purpose! I am involved at my church: Koinonia Church in Arlington. I love my church family! I am taking 11 youth to the Navajo reservation this summer for a mission trip... that takes a lot of planning (if you have ever planned a trip like that for youth- thank you, you are wonderful... it is hard!) I also just took my final exam to become a minister at the church- praise God! I think I did well! I also get to lead worship for the chidren each Sunday- they love the guitar (a little too much- sometimes I cant get them to stop trying to touch it in order to lead the songs!) O yea- I do have a job! I work at REACH Council doing drug and alcohol prevention in the schools. It is a great job and I love the children and youth that I work with! I also have picked up boxing at Eagle's Boxing Gym in Waxahachie- its a Christian boxing gym- pretty much rocks! Thats not it- but I wont bore yall with anymore! Well, keep me in your prayers and stay in touch- dont forget to sign up for Skype and look me up! Love yall and take a minute to thank God for all He has done in your life!!! He is AWESOME! Be blessed!

Video Call Me!

2009-03-29T16:03:00.000-07:00

I now have a FREE Skype account.
If you go to www.skype.com and sign up for your FREE Skype account, you will be able to talk, instant message and video call me while I am in Kenya any time for FREE!
When you set up your account search for me to be your friend. To search you can use my account name: kelly.krammer; my email address: kelly.krammer@gmail.com; or my full name: Kelly Krammer (pretty easy!)
This will be the easiest and least expensive (did I say its FREE?!?) way to contact me!
Do it... NOW!!! :)

Support Letter

2009-03-07T16:05:00.000-08:00

Have you ever felt like your life was in fast forward? That is how the last ten months have felt for me. I graduated from Texas Christian University in May 2008 with my degree in Social Work and Spanish. Soon after, I was hired as a Drug and Alcohol Prevention Specialist at REACH Council. A month later, I traveled to Kali, Kenya to help build an orphanage for children who lost their parents due to the AIDS epidemic. A month after that, I began to serve as the Children’s Director at Koinonia Church. As the months flew by, I found myself applying to graduate school, taking a Minister Training Class, trying to box, studying Swahili, leading a Youth Mission trip to a Navajo Reservation…
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In August of 2009, I will begin a new chapter of my life. I will attend Nairobi Evangelical Graduate School of Theology in Nairobi, Kenya.

“God has placed NEGST in the heart of Africa to lift up the cross of Christ and seek to provide transformation through godly leadership.” http://www.negst.edu/

In two years, by the grace and strength of God, I will have my Master of Arts in Mission Studies.

“The programme is designed to equip Christian men and women for a local and global missionary task in evangelism, church planting, disciple making and social service.” http://www.negst.edu/

While at NEGST, I will learn more about Christ and be able to effectively proclaim His Gospel. I will learn about, develop and express respect for the African people and their culture. Furthermore, I will be able to formulate Biblical values for the economic development and social progress of Africa while building networks of understanding and partnership between churches and nations. And finally, God will stretch and grow me to be a woman of godly character, loving and serving people all around the world.

How can you help? I am glad you asked! This journey is not about Kelly Krammer, but rather about Christ and what He has planned not only for me, but also for the people of Kenya and… for you!!!

First and foremost: I need prayer! I will have a continual prayer list on the bottom of my blog at http://www.kellynkenya.blogspot.com/.

Secondly, as a student at NEGST and a missionary in Africa, I am required to save and raise enough money to be able live for two full years. With expenses for school, transportation, housing, food, insurance and other basics, I need to have about $27,000 before I leave. Please pray about it and if God moves upon your heart to give to this mission, I would greatly appreciate your gift- large or small. If you would like to make a donation, please email me at kelly.krammer @gmail.com and we will discuss how you might be able to do so!

“We loved you so much that we were delighted to share with you not only the Gospel of God but our lives as well, because you had become so dear to us.” 1 Thessalonians 2:8

Thank you in advance for your support and be blessed,

Kelly Krammer
kelly.krammer@gmail.com
http://www.kellynkenya.blogspot.com/