Recapping

Yes, I have been m.i.a. for a while, but those of you who have moved cross country before, you understand.  During my last few weeks in Boston I was invited to speak for a few different groups.  I decided to focus on what we can learn from Africa -- despite the fact that Africa is very poverty stricken, many medical practices are unsafe, and the infrastructure lacks so much.  Here are some highlights:

When we did our crafts with the Mabatini CarePoint children we were amazed to see how well they took care of things.  We expected marker caps to go missing, scissors broken, glue sticks missing… Every single one was returned to us in perfect condition.  Never once did I see these children complain -- I'm sure it happens, but the point is that their overall attitudes were not destructive.  They were actually quite uplifting and joyful!  All of the staff cared for the children and never did a job half-heartedly as well.

This is Suzy.  She is in a family of five children and one mother.  Their only income is selling porridge.  But, do you see any drop of hate or spite in her?  I didn't.  These kids, though they lack many necessities, find joy in the Lord and in what they are given.  Nothing is taken for granted.

This is a video of the children singing and, yes, it is of their own will that they sing.  (Roughly translated, the song means that there is one gate in heaven open for the rich and poor.)  Have you ever such passion in worship?  Not here in the states.  And, when they sang Amazing Grace, someone commented on the fact that it is astounding hearing them sing this because they went from a life of begging and stealing left and right to being some of the most Godly, kindest, most generous kids we have met.

Coming back, despite the fact that I was living out of a suitcase in an average apartment, I felt as if I was living in a palace.  I mean, there was an abundance of running water, sturdy walls, and I didn't need an escort to go out.  In its simplicity and minimalist way of life, Africa highlighted how extra stuff can be a burden.   Community is the glue, not possessions.  Yes possessions can be a blessing and they accumulate so easily, but they can equally be a curse.

I will leave you know to think about the discussion questions below that I led the CoaH's Women's Breakfast through last month:

1. Read James 1:27, Deuteronomy 15:11, Proverbs 28:27, and 1 John 3:17-18.  There are numerous verses were we are called to care for our brothers and sisters locally and worldwide.  What are some ways we can practice this (both financially and in action)?
2. Are material possessions a blessing or curse? Can/how does materialism distract us?  What are ways to not be distracted or controlled by materialism?
3. Why do you think many Africans are joyful despite their suffering?

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