**A TERRIFYING VICTORY IN LEPARUA**
*By Rev. James Ndirangu, ACK Barnabas-Isiolo*
Today was a day like no other—both a great triumph and a heart-stopping adventure. Together with our Archdeacon, Ven. Diid Boru, we had traveled to Ngare Sirkon, the farthest daughter church in Leparua, for a mini harambee to support church construction. The journey was tough, the rough terrain making it accessible only by motorbikes. Yet, we pressed on with determination, motivated by the task at hand.
By God’s grace, the harambee was a success. As we rode back, we were in a celebratory mood, reflecting on lessons from Luke 3, where John the Baptist boldly prepared the way for the Lord. The sky was dramatic—dark clouds loomed behind us, while a rainbow shimmered just ahead, creating an unforgettable scene.
Then, out of nowhere, the unexpected happened.
**THE CHARGE**
A sudden, deafening trumpet-like sound tore through the stillness. Before we could comprehend it, a massive, dark brown bull elephant emerged, charging straight at us with terrifying force.
Panic set in as the motorbike wobbled. I was seated at the back, sandwiched between the Archdeacon and the boda boda rider. In that split second, survival instincts took over—and I discovered something extraordinary about the Archdeacon.
**THE KIPCHOGE WITHIN**
Ven. Diid leapt off the bike with an agility I would never have imagined. Somehow, he managed to jump past me, despite being sandwiched in the middle! Before I could even blink, he was already 15 meters away, sprinting at a speed that would put professional athletes to shame. Shoeless and determined, he ran as if his very life depended on it.
Meanwhile, the bike toppled over, throwing the rest of us to the ground. Adrenaline coursed through my veins as we scrambled to safety, narrowly avoiding the furious elephant.
**REFLECTIONS ON FAITH AND MINISTRY**
As I write this, safe and grateful for God’s protection, I marvel at the lessons this experience has taught me. Ministry in places like Ngare Sirkon is not for the faint of heart. The roads are tough, the dangers are real, and yet the call to serve remains undeniable.
Our encounter with the charging elephant felt like a vivid reminder of the courage and faith we need in ministry. Just as John the Baptist prepared the way for Christ with boldness, we too must continue our mission—no matter how challenging or unpredictable the path may be.
To my fellow servants in Christ, let this be an encouragement. Whether you are outrunning an elephant or navigating other “giants” in ministry, take heart. As Psalm 23 reminds us, *“Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for You are with me.”*
For me and Ven. Diid, today was proof that God’s hand is always with us—even on the roughest roads.