Blessed is he who has regard for the weak; the Lord delivers him in times of trouble. (Ps 41:1)
The only thing that counts is faith expressing itself through love. (Gal 5:6)
Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. (Gal 6:9)
We just returned from a 9-day journey East to the city of Mar*di. We experienced so many things, and yet I am uncharacteristically speechless. I will briefly explain our trip, then let the pictures speak for themselves.
Our mission agency scheduled an orientation for the new missionaries over our two-week spring break. It took place East of Niamey in the second largest town in Niger called M*r*di. Here we learned about some history of church relations in the country, the agricultural efforts, the medical efforts, and the evangelism efforts of the m*ssion*ries. It was eye-opening and very educational for us! One highlight was being able to connect with two of our church-supported m*ss*onaries — Gail and Ish*y*. (I am masking some words for the protection of the people involved..you’ll have to guess what the real words are. Sorry!) We watched them share God’s love to these remote villagers, who probably think they are forgotten in this world! It was beautiful. Amidst the stark barrenness of the land, there was G*il, sharing her heart and teaching them to read….drip….drip…drip…watering the land with love.… and then that night, Ish* preached boldly to hundreds (some came miles!) for nearly two hours!...drip…drip…drip…watering the land with love. It was mighty! Made me think of the truth that those who drink of Jesus’ love will never “thirst” again. Our family will never forget that experience!
It is difficult (with the slow internet) to upload and add captions to each photo, so I will describe them in order here: above – in the bush with Ish an G*il in the village ZT; dinner with Ish and his family at his house; along the road there are many grain huts to be seen…the photos are loading slowly so I will try another tactic…stay tuned!)
Grays' life in the desert 
NIkki, it is unreal the experiences you are having and the impact it will have on your family’s life. Thank you for sharing some of what you’ve seen and heard. Love Sharalyn
Wow! Very cool! You blend right in over there Nikki!
Andy and Nikki,
The Atkission’s think and pray for your work and lives in Africa. You guys are inspiring. You love well and live extra-ordinary. Blessings.
Thanks Atkission family! When are you joining us out here!? ha! We know you want to get dirty too — look forward to sharing in your journey as well. How is law-school going? Your beautiful kids? It is almost roller skating weather there so you can think of us when you are putting band aids on skinned knees from the purchase of our kids’ roller skates! We love you! – Andy & Nik