Chad’s Independence Day

meat grinder in the market. The Market is closed on Independence Day [Source: Mandolos on a Mission]Independence Day, Eastern Chad, December 1, 2010:  Yesterday I bought filet, then had it ground into ground beef. I also bought flour, sugar, and dishwashing liquid.  I went to the ATM today, but it did not accept our card.

A Pakistani man ahead of me was also trying to get money.  However, his card was not accepted. I helped him understand that when the machine is low on bills, it only allows bank members to make withdrawals. As I was there, what should have been obvious to me came to mind at last: today is Independence Day! With the limited number of stores open, I was sure glad that I had bought the essentials yesterday! (more…)

3 Reasons Why I Bought a Camel

and why you should, too...

While in Chad, I often got lost in the Sahara desert.  The GPS I used there would only point me in the right direction to my destination, as the roads I was following weren’t on any map.

I'm so thankful for "99", my camel! Here is a picture of him.This led me, more than once, to cross dry river beds and thorn-bush forests with “Twila”, our Speed the Light vehicle.

I often got all disoriented from following a cow trail, with very few options but to turn around and start back where I left the main road.

And each time I did, I prayed that God would provide the money for me to buy a camel…

Here are three of the best reasons I can think of, why everyone should own one of these “ships of the desert”. (more…)

My struggle to return to the Sahara

The story of this Bible translation began with a struggle I was facing in Chad, in 2007.

Just two of the reasons why we willing struggle to serve in the Sahara DesertWe had just joined a new mission agency.

The budget I was asked to raise from churches was double what it had been.

Our previous supporters easily got on board to support us.

However, I was having a difficult time asking new churches of New England to support us as well. They were already supporting as many missionaries as their budget could afford.

And these pastors were struggling to make ends meet themselves. (more…)