I received some heart wrenching news this morning that a dear friend and interpreter for our group died in Kisumu, Kenya. Elizabeth Onyango Orondo was a sweet, godly woman. She interpreted for me last year when our group was in Kisumu. Elizabeth was truly a Proverbs 31 woman. She was a student of God's Word, and always was interested in learning more about the Lord and His Word. She was one of the few women that graduated from the Pastor's school in Kisumu. We were so privileged to attend the graduation ceremony. Elizabeth was so proud that day. She walked very slowly to receive that diplomma that she had worked so hard for. Savoring every moment. Elizabeth made all of her own clothes, she was a fine seamstress, and she made the clothes for her three girls. She was so proud of her little family. Elizabeth worked hard at everything she did. She worked hard at her English. She was so precious to me the first time I was with her in Kisumu. She took the time to write out common phrases in Swahili, and what they meant in English. She wanted me to know and learn her language.She had a ready smile, and a sweet spirit about her. I will miss her greatly. But we don't grieve as those who have no hope. I know that Elizabeth is with her Lord and Saviour. I will see her again one day, and I rejoice in that fact.
James 4:14 says, " Yet you do not know what your life will be like tomorrow, you are just a vapor that appears for a little while and then vanishes away."
When I went to bed last night I had no idea that I would wake up to this news. We truly do not know what our life will be like tomorrow, or even if we will be alive tomorrow. We should take every opportunity to love our family and friends, and tell them what they mean to us because we don't know if we will have another opportunity to tell them. I sure wish I would have loved on Elizabeth more!
I will not say Goodbye Elizabeth, just so long for now, it sure has been good to know you! Until we meet again...
