This article was originally published in the December 2016 edition of ITMI Monthly.
During this season of giving, we asked ITMI partners to give you their heartfelt answers to several questions.
May their answers bless and encourage you!
Muhindo and Lillian Kawede
Kampala, Uganda
What would you like ITMI supporters to know?
I want ITMI's supporters to know that we could not equip pastors through the International School of Missions without their financial support.
I am deeply humbled that the supporters are transforming African pastors to be part of God's plan of reconciliation.
I want supporters to know that God is using their prayers and financial support to heal wounds in Africa, equipping generations of leaders holistically transformed to impact Africa and the whole world.
ISM is addressing spiritual, emotional, intellectual and social needs. Our students, who were divided by their cultural heritage, now see each other as people with the same ancestor (Adam and Eve). They are using their differences to build each other up.
Ralston and Provia's Story
Ralston and Provia eloped 3 years ago before knowing Christ. They were saved through the outreach of ISM students and joined Bible Mission Church on ISM’s campus.
They matured spiritually and decided they want to be married in our church.
We sent them to inform their parents, but the parents of Ralston said they cannot accept their son to marry a lady from Rwandese ancestors because of the genocide of 1996.
Ralston and Provia refused to follow the ways of past conflicts. They convinced their parent that they are "new creation in Christ.” (2 Corinthians 5:17-21) Their wedding will take place on 3 December in our local church.
I want the supporters to know that their support is reconciling Africans to Christ and healing wounds of division among community through the ISM.
What has God taught you this year?
God has taught me to trust Him despite what I don't understand.
First, we completed the four classrooms of ISM. We started this project in 2011, but God had a reason to delay the building - to teach me to trust Him, not people.
Four classrooms completed at the International School of Missions!
Secondly, my wife, Lillian, struggled with diabetes and became 100% blind. I could not understand how God allowed her to not be able to see the building we prayed for together for years.
After reading Philippians 4:6-7, God gave me His peace to know that ISM belongs to Him and not to me, ITMI or Lillian and the Lord will take ISM where He wants, to be glorified.
Steve Evers has advocated for and served the ITMI partners as ITMI Director since 2001. Approximately once a year, Steve visits with ITMI partners in their countries and brings stories back to encourage supporters. Steve enjoys photography and mechanics, (both hobbies that have greatly benefited ITMI partners!) Prior to becoming ITMI's Director, Steve served on the Board of Directors for 4 years. Steve lives in Arizona with his wife, Darlene.
