Our dear friend Bayo has been a faithful partner in the work
of AIM in Eastern Tanzania since 2008. He originally introduced us to the
Manyara Region, encouraging us to come and help the rural pastors.
He has not only helped us to organize conferences, but also
has been our most stable translator and fellow-teacher. He has become
well-respected among hundreds of pastors in various denominations out in the
"bush" villages. And when we return to the USA, Bayo continues to
represent AIM, leading conferences and raising up ministry leaders in even more
remote areas. People recognize him as a strong, faithful leader, and we agree.
On several occasions, we have had the joyful privilege of
staying a few nights in his home. This allowed us to get to know his beautiful
family. His wife Agnes and his three children share the home with two cousins,
and there is plenty of love for all.
Agnes is a caring wife and mother, beautiful in spirit and
generosity. She is truly evidence of the
Proverbs 31 woman. She works during the day as a secretary in Arusha town, and
though she returns home very tired, she sings as she prepares dinner for the
family. She includes each family member in the meal preparation; but rather
than being a time that all the children loathe, they happily help out so that
they can spend some time with their mom.
In the evening before bed, we gathered with the whole family
for prayer in their living room. Our hearts were warmed as each one shared a
blessing for us, their American visitors. Then embracing us and one another,
they plodded off to bed. This is truly a home where grace and peace are evident
and Jesus reigns in the lives of a family committed to Him.
