So, this morning at The Pines -- I fixed breakfast, then showered. Don sat with coffee. Dave got dressed for church. Pretty normal, eh? Except several somebodies in the neighborhood were shooting at each other. Then we heard the rapid fire of an automatic weapon. Within minutes many, many Zama Zamas were fleeing the mine shaft area and heading around The Pines, disappearing over the horizon. By the time the police arrived, not a one was in sight -- not a live one, that is. The security guards wildly motioned to the police, directing them where to go.
Although we have not heard confirmation, Phil feels certain that some Zama Zamas have now faced their Maker, been judged and found wanting. Pray that God will give someone an opening to share Jesus with them.
A short time later we left for worship at Thabong Baptist Church. The contrast cannot be greater than that between the rat-a-tat-tat of weapons and the rhythm of African believers praising God together. Greetings, testimonies, songs, special music, preaching, hugs -- fellowship across language and cultural divides is sweet. Perhaps we'll not see these brothers and sisters again in this life but we're making plans to hang out together in heaven.
While we worshiped, Johnny arrived home from St. Helena Hospital. His face is swollen and he sounds uncomfortable because of the packing in his nose. Because his dominant arm is broken, he's learning how to negotiate silverware with his left. And, being Johnny, he can't imagine what bed rest means. Please pray for continued healing and for a modicum of self control so he does not damage what the doctors have put in place.
Guess what...I packed three brownie mixes and plenty of candy bars so I could make Chery's famous brownies for everyone here. So, this afternoon I baked them up and we carried them to the activity room and had a story time and sweet treats. What fun!
Here at The Pines we have a budding storyteller. Gladys likes reading and music, important skills for a storyteller, plus she really wants to do it. I've been encouraging her while here and took a few minutes today to give her a private story telling lesson. I hope that next visit I'll get to listen to her read!
Mama Margaret was very happy this morning. Arnold got a ride from a friend and spent two nights here. This morning he returned to Johannesburg. His paper work rests on the desk of a bureaucrat. Please pray with us that the person reviewing his application to be legal in this country will view it favorably. Margaret gave her testimony in church, thanking the Lord for His care and provision, and for those at The Pines who have prayed with her, encouraged her, and challenged her to walk faithfully with God.
Tomorrow we leave for Johannesburg. Tuesday we get on the plane for Atlanta. Around noon on Wednesday we'll be home. Thank you for following our journey and for praying with us. In the last report, Don's sister Betty had a good time of fellowship with Dad. He also seemed to enjoy a visit from Mike and Elizabeth and the twins. We're thankful that God has preserved him during our time in Welkom.
Soon I'll be back in Michigan, the Lord willing. As we walk away, our hearts will be torn in two. We leave with a growing love for the people in this place, a concern for the immense need, a sense of the urgency to reach people for Jesus Christ in a place where guns and HIV/AIDS claim many lives daily. Pray that God will keep our hearts tender and our priorities in line with His.
Judy
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