Father, as we walk the dirty streets of the Mathare Valley
and we see so many living with so little,
we are surprised.
Not surprised by the conditions in which they live,
but the conditions of their hearts.
They are filled with so much joy,
all because of the hope they find in you.
If we really believe Father, why are we surprised?
Father, our Maasai brothers and sisters want for nothing.
Your creation supplies their every need.
Even when they don’t know or recognize you,
you take care of them.
And Father,
we stand in awe as we see you moving across the Mara,
opening the eyes and hearts of the Maasai to you,
the giver of every good and perfect gift.
Those who were so far away,
you are drawing close.
If we really believe Father, why are we surprised?
Father, you have promised to take care of us.
The birds of the air and the lilies of the field are well kept,
and yet how much more valuable are we,
who were created in your own image?
Father, when you keep your word,
we call it a miracle.
We are surprised,
and we stand in awe of your power.
If we really believe Father, why are we surprised?
Father, we are often faithless.
We are more concerned with the conditions in which we live
than the conditions of our hearts.
Father you supply our every need,
yet we live in want.
Change our hearts, oh Father,
fill our smiles and our faces with the joy of knowing you.
May your spirit move among us
and dwell in our hearts.
And Father, when we are refreshed and renewed
we should not be surprised...
Because if we really believe Father, why would we be?
