Donkey and Goats and the trip.

We are well on our way to have the list filled, with the exception of the lap top and the Ipod.
We are going to purchase 22 gallon sterilite totes. These are able to go on the airplane as a "checked bag" and are very light weight. Often a cheap suitcase takes up much of the 50lbs.

I want to add to this list a couple of things that have really changed the way I think everyday.

Kingdom Kids has a "donkey and goat" program. Here's how it works. No, I am not buying a plane ticket for a donkey:)
For $50usd we can donate a donkey to a family in Ethiopia. This donkey will truly change the life of an entire family. Just think what a head of a house hold could do with a donkey in Africa. Instead of the entire family walking 3 miles each way to get water, one of the kids could go and load 4-6 water jugs onto the donkey and the donkey would carry it back, while the family could be working in the garden, or whatever. With no donkey they all have to make the trek and this is a lot of calories expended that they don't have to spare.

Goats are used for milking but currently I am not sure what they cost. What could you give up for a week, month or 2 months to donate $50 to help. We can't all go there, but we can all help in some way. I just want to help you think outside the box a little and give you the joy of giving in this unique way.

I have been asked if I know for sure that they are not eating the animals. Since I have not been there yet I can not tell you 100%, but I have been told they are not and it seems to make sense that an animal that does that much to help your family would be taken pretty good care of. "Don't muzzle the ox" comes to mind.

If you donate money to Kingdom Kids and you would like us to take a picture of "your" donkey being delivered to the new owner, LMK and I will try to get that done.

Please join with us as we pray for these people before we go. We want to be a light and an encouragement to them in whatever way we can. The trip will include a lot of air miles and many on the ground, new culture, food and much heart wrenching scenery. Pray that God would give us strength and wisdom to know what to do and say and that most of all He would be glorified through us as we tell of His goodness. Sitting in airports and hotels there are always opportunities to talk about His grace, and we desire to be faithful to those divine appointments. Much work to do and He gives the strength to do. Praise His glorious name for that.