Lost in Faith

Leaving on Monday morning May 14 had mixed emotions.  The return trip to Africa was certainly a divine directive.  Repeated movements into the current convinced me that God was up to something but May 17 was the due date for my first grandchild.  I know and fulfilled the responsibility of a father; 4 times present at the birth of my children but what of a grandfather.

Hoping against hope that Molly Owen wouldn’t make her grand entrance into this world until my return.  Yes, Molly Owen appeared on May 15, 2007.  As I write this I am operating on 48 hours without a real solid session of sleep.  The first 24 on the plane and when darkness and the comfort of the bed presented itself, so did a text describing Molly’s hair yet not born.  The next 4 hours were spent waiting for a call which didn’t come until 5:30 am (SAST).  I am a grandfather.

The joy that brings is so discomforting in the world that I am in.  Molly comes into this world with a father who loves her mother and a family that has a growing relationship with their Heavenly Father.  Few African children,especially South African children have what Molly has.

Like many of us, she is blessed materially for being born as a North American.

There is a certain hopelessness that can overwhelm you when in certain parts of Africa. Poverty abounds and economic despair leaks from every crack.  Somehow you know that money won’t fix much of anything.

This visit to the Transkei and a return was somewhat different.  There was a tent when we arrived!  Where do they get a tent?  Come to find out a “cult” leader 40 km away in Port St. Johns was eager to provide it!  I say cult because he gave use  his “book” upon our leaving.  In it he claims to have done something no one else in history has even attempted!  He also shares his experiences from his 20, count them, twenty, trips to heaven.  Needless to say that the gospel already has its enemies in Bhukwini.

This trip to South Africa produced a clear and compelling vision.  We don’t need to build anything in Bhukwini but the people.  The October trip will provide Bhukwini with life transforming educational experiences in dealing with AIDS/HIV, Gardening, Finding God, Growing with God and Hog Farming.

The week will cost about $2500 per person and leave Oct. 24 and return Nov. 4.  We will be going with Indian Creek Community Church and Westside Family Church.  We are able to take 40 people total so that first 40 who put down a $500 deposit will get the slots.

Wednesday morning at Panera, I will share more about the experience and answer questions.