From Fajitas to Friendship
Hello Again,
It’s only been a few days since we arrived in Kenya, and already our hearts are full. Full of memories. Full of new experiences. Full of hope.
But nothing has filled our hearts quite like reuniting with our dear friend Douglas Mukisa.
We last saw Douglas just before our wedding in October. Amid the joyful chaos of that season, his presence was such a gift. He brought a calm, prayerful steadiness that grounded us when we most needed it. So, seeing him again—this time on his own soil—was more than just a reunion. It was a reminder of why we came back.
Douglas is a 42-year-old Ugandan missionary who has poured out his life in service to some of the most vulnerable people in Kenya. He walks in the other-centered love of Christ in a way that humbles us every time we’re with him. There’s a quiet strength in Douglas, a gentleness that speaks louder than words ever could.
He leads multiple ministries here in Kenya—each one aimed at restoring dignity and hope. From supporting older mamas in the slums, to mentoring single mothers who’ve faced domestic violence, to coaching a youth dance team that gives teens a way out of trouble, to pastoring a church and leading a youth group—Douglas is faithfully present where the need is greatest.
Even with all that on his plate, he gave us his full first day to simply be with us. He welcomed us back, encouraged us deeply, and took us to eat our first meal in Kenya.
He took us to CJ’s, a popular restaurant especially for those visiting. Jared ordered some very delicious curry and Jordan’s Mexican heart ordered the sizzling fajitas. Fajitas in Kenya were good and somehow they got the flavor just right.
Our day with Douglas meant so much to us. Nothing like reuniting with a friend, sitting around that table, sharing stories and delicious food, it felt like no time had passed at all—and at the same time, everything had changed.
Speaking of change… Nairobi is booming. The city is now home to over 5 million people and has become one of East Africa’s fastest-growing economies. Google, Facebook, even SpaceX have offices here. There’s a brand-new expressway now—smooth roads in Kenya! (It’s miraculous) It’s a rising, pulsing city with innovation and energy, yet still deeply rooted in tradition and community.
We’re doing a lot of learning—and re-learning—as we settle in. Some things are familiar, others are entirely new. But all of it feels alive. There’s a freshness in the air, a newness of life waiting around every corner. We feel both the weight of change and the thrill of possibility. And it’s incredible.
Being here with Douglas, has reminded us that Kenya is more than a tourist destination or a mission field, it is a place to reunite with friends. It’s a place Jared has felt deeply connected to and Jordan is quickly falling in love with.
There’s more to share in the days ahead, and we’re excited to bring you along with us.
With happy hearts,
Jared and Jordan Gustafson
