"We love because He first loved us." (1 John 4:19)
These are very simple words, but they show the depth of love the Father has for us. God is love and mercy. He sent His son to die for us and the forgiveness of our sins. "The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new each morning." (Lamentations 3:22-23)
Love comes from God, and because of His great love for us, we can love one another. We serve when the opportunity arises and when there is a need. In times of disaster and tragedy, we reach out to our neighbors with loving arms wide, showing compassion and mercy. While we can't do everything, we can do something. During this time of war, in this day and age, it has been beautiful to see the outpouring of mercy and love shown by so many to the people of Ukraine. From significant acts of mercy to simple gestures of love, it is a powerful reminder of God's deep and eternal love for us.
updates from the field
DISASTER RESPONSE TRAINING…
February was a busy month. Our team in Kenya hosted Rev. Dr. Ross Johnson and Rev. Peter Brock from the LCMS Disaster Response Team. They led training with the Africa missionaries, focusing on personal preparedness, crisis plans, disaster response, and how the church responds during these times. They also held a conference for the students at Neema Lutheran College (Matongo) and the leadership of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Kenya (ELCK). Their training focused on the Lutheran Theology of the Cross, the Lutheran Theology of Mercy, and best practices as Christians during times of disaster. The training was well-received. "Our bishops, pastors and laity really appreciated this teaching. This was an eye-opener for us to see the need of responding to our neighbor's needs with compassion and as agents of Christ in mission." -Archbishop Joseph Ochola.
PROJECT 24 VISITS AND FORUM...
We also hosted Erik Lunsford, managing photojournalist for the LCMS. It was great to work alongside him and collaborate on photos. I learned so much from him, which helped me improve my photography skills. He accompanied Britt and me to three P24 sites to "make" new photos. It was indeed a fun time, and I was pleased with the latest pictures of the children. Erik always says, "make" photos, which is the case. Images tell a story, and there are many things to consider when "making" photos. Britt and I always enjoy our visits. This time, we played soccer and jumping rope with the kids as we continued to strengthen the relationships.
The end of the visits took us to the newest and eighth boarding facility-Lurambi. Bishops, pastors, site managers, and missionaries gathered here for the dedication of Lurambi and the annual Project 24 forum. There was much excitement about this new facility. In addition, the meeting is a time for all of the site managers to report the past year's activities. It is also an opportunity for encouragement, fellowship, and support for the work of caring for the children. With each annual meeting there have been significant accomplishments to celebrate.
AFRICA FIELD REGIONAL RETREAT...
Our Africa team got back on track and gathered together in Egypt for our annual regional retreat in March. This is a special time for us. Families come together for a time of fellowship, learning, rest, refreshment, and worship together. In addition, new missionaries to the field get to meet the rest of the team during this occasion. We were blessed to have Dwight Schettler, the President of Ambassadors of Reconciliation as the presenter for our sessions. The focus of his teaching was "Go and Be Reconciled." The seminar walked us through Luther's Small Catechism, and we learned what it means first to be reconciled to God and then to others. We reviewed case studies to give us a clear understanding. We are His children and are called to lead lives of repentance, receiving His forgiveness, and forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave us. After busy months of various ministry and life activities, time in Egypt was good rest for the body, mind, and spirit. We thank God for His mercy and love toward us, which helps us serve in his mission.
Thank you for being part of this journey with us as we serve the Lord in Eastern and Southern Africa.
or you can send gifts to: The lutheran church--missouri synod P.o. Box 66861 st. louis, MO 63166-6861
OR
Or you can send gifts to: Mission Central 40718 Highway E-16 Mapleton, IA 51034; give online at https://missioncentral.us/missions/all-missionaries/ then click on Shara & Michael Osiro; Or text the keyword LCMSOSIRO to the number 41-444
prayers & praise
- Pray for God's strength and guidance as Michael and I serve in Africa.
- Pray for the Alliance & LCMS missionaries serving through LCMS International Mission.
- Pray for the staff at P24 Lurambi as they prepare to receive the children.
- Praise God for the training from the disaster response team.
- Praise God for all of YOU and the love & support that you give to me and Michael.
- Thank you Erik for the awesome photos of Shara in action.
Contact Information: P. O. Box 22, Karen, 00502 - Kenya / Email: shara.osiro@lcms.org
