It was like no other Christmas we ever experienced before—

No snow on sidewalks and streets; but wonderfully warm days and cool refreshing nights.

No deer, squirrel, or raccoon in the woods behind our house; but we heard wild beasts, giraffes, elephants, lions, and gazelles in abundance.

No beautifully-wrapped gifts to open; but the gift of compassion and healing—given and received.

No festively decorated church where magnificent music is heard; but a quiet and heartfelt "thank you" from a Masai bush mother as her infant was restored to health.

No elaborately prepared Christmas dinner; but tasty and rewarding food—after the footers for a new church foundation were laid, hundreds of Vacation Bible School (VBS) children were taught, clothing was given to many who have very little, and the ministrations of physicians and nurses to more than 200 a day.

No quiet, traditional Christmas carols; but there was the exuberant Masai church choir singing their own rendition of "Joy to the World" with Masai rhythm, movements, accents, and traditional dress. It was with tearful joy we recognized and joined in singing that favorite carol.

No family and church members gathered for that special church service; but there were members of three previously warring tribes gathered together in peace and harmony, praising and thanking God for His love, His gifts of food and water, and medicines from His people in America.

December 14–31, 2005, 30 short-term mission enthusiasts visited the Masai tribe of Kenya, Africa. This secluded spot—the home of Mara-Masai—is six hours on pot-holed, rutted, washed-out, picture-snapping roads. Their lovely plateau overlooks the expansive grasslands of the Serengeti Plain. Every possible African wild animal roams freely there.

The group that came to minister was diverse: Seminarians, students, a chaplain, medical students, physicians, and nurses. Other talented members served to provide VBS for a huge number of children. Others distributed clothing, did plumbing or bricklaying, or dug sand from a riverbank where crocs and hippos swam.

We will never forget the Masai warrior turned Christian, who asked us to read the second chapter of Luke to him. After reading of Christ's birth, he asked why He was born in a manger. We gave the standard answer about prophecy fulfillment and Christ's humble beginnings so all could have free access to His gift of salvation. His understanding filled us with awe: "He was born in a manger so a Masai, like I, who herds cattle and cares for sheep and goats, could come to Him. In the past, no one would come near the Masai as they drank the blood of cattle, but now we feed the cattle in mangers. Jesus knew about the Masai and their mangers for cattle, and we can come to Him and know He is not above us."

Christ's message of love is for all, and we are thankful to be used for Him for His purposes.

William D. Fisher, Barbara S. Fisher, and Bryce Fisher are members of the Richmond (Indiana) Church.