Mike has begun teaching at NIST
I've begun teaching New Testament Survey in the Diploma Program at Nairobi International School of Theology. We meet for two 1 hour 40 minute sessions each Tuesday. We have had 4 sessions so far. I'm enjoying teaching again, and the students seem to be enjoying our time together also.
It is often challenging when we begin studying the New Testament in an academic setting. Students are accustomed to reading the Bible in a devotional way, and now I am asking them to read it and see it in a different manner. We look at the historical and cultural situation of the writers and of the events, and read the New Testament as history and theology. My hope is that students will gain a deeper understanding of the Scriptures.
Students, also, normally begin with a vague idea of where the writings of the New Testament come from. They are often thought of as simply always being there. Now, when we examine how these letters and gospels were written, and how these separate 'books' gradually over 200 years came together to be considered the New Testament canon, students are especially challenged. For many this new information seems to diminish God's role in the existence of Scripture. Part of my job then becomes helping them see that God works through sometimes long, complex historical processes.
A movement from the previous almost 'magical' understanding of Scripture to a more historical view, also moves students to see Jesus Christ as the center of our faith more than the writings themselves about him. And I think that is a worthwhile endeavor.
I also have an office for the first time in my life. There are a few pictures of the office here. I hope to post some pictures of the school and students in the near future.
Alia goes to School
A new preschool/kindergarten has opened across the street from us. So, Alia has begun school! The school is called Kids R' Us, and it is colorfully painted. It operates on the Montessori method, which seems to be popular in Kenya. Her favorite things about school so far are the snacks and lunch - Alia loves to eat - and finger painting. She is an enthusiastic pupil. So far, only 3 other much younger boys are at the school. We hope that some boys and girls her age will soon enroll.
Private schools face much competition in Kenya for students. This competition brings even preschools to put in swimming pools, provide pony rides, music lessons, tae kwon doe lessons, etc. It also reveals the vast inequality in Kenya. These preschools can cost more per month than most Kenyans can hope to earn.
As Alia's school is new and she is going half-days (reducing fees), we manage to afford it. Below are a few pictures of her first day at school.
