Team Tanzania – Jeff Radichel: The Joy of Sharing

Yesterday began with a drive to Matala Primary School near Himo, where we were welcomed by approximately 260 students and 10 teachers. A number of district pastors also came to the school and watched as we presented. Their presence and enthusiasm were deeply encouraging. They saw the children listening, participating, and hearing about Jesus, and they were excited about the opportunity for this kind of ministry in their communities.

By God’s grace, our presentations have become more natural as the days have gone on. Instead of thinking so much about what comes next, we are simply able to enjoy being with the children and sharing the message.

One moment that made me smile happened before we even arrived. The vehicle was completely full, so Sarah ended up riding on my lap for part of the trip. We laughed along the way, and sometimes those unexpected moments become the memories we treasure most.

Bruce always has a wonderful way of connecting with the children. His five finger illustration involving the tembo, or elephant, had the entire school engaged. You could see the excitement on their faces, and it reminded me that sharing the Gospel should be filled with joy.

We needed to leave after the presentation so we could make it back before dark. After saying goodbye to the pastors, we stopped for a quick and very nice lunch on the way. The food was excellent, and it was a welcome pause after a full morning.

One of the lighter parts of the day involved the gifts we had received during our travels. So far, we had been given both a chicken and a rooster. We truly appreciated the generosity behind those gifts, and we were glad they found good new homes with Jeremiah.

Later, I had a brief conversation with a client, fellow believer, and friend. I have always been thankful that the Lord allows me to live without hard lines between work, faith, and everything else. We are people before we are business roles. Those I serve can be open with me about their lives, and I can be open with them about mine.

When she heard more about the trip, she said, “I’m jealous and want to hear more about this trip.” She thought it was so awesome. Her excitement reminded me that the joy of mission work can reach people far beyond those who are physically here.

I had also sent a note to my nieces and nephews encouraging them not to let fear, uncertainty, money, work, school, comfort, or feeling unqualified keep them from considering a Mission Helper trip. I told them they did not need to be pastors or have all the answers. They simply needed willing hearts, and that I would gladly go with any of them someday.

Gabi replied:

“So so cool! I would love to go on one someday!”

That simple response brought me a great deal of joy.

Joy has a way of spreading.

It spreads from children hearing about Jesus.

It spreads through pastors who want more opportunities to reach their communities.

It spreads among teammates serving and laughing together.

It spreads through friendships where faith and life can be shared honestly.

And perhaps, by God’s grace, it spreads to the next generation of Mission Helpers.

Jesus told His disciples:

“These things I have spoken to you, that My joy may be in you, and that your joy may be full.” John 15:11

That is what this day felt like. Not because everything was easy or comfortable, but because there is a special joy that comes from sharing Christ with others.

Please continue to pray for our remaining time in Tanzania. Pray that the Lord would bless His Word, strengthen the pastors, and raise up more people willing to serve in His harvest.

In Christ,
Jeff Radichel
Tanzania Mission Helper Trip