But seek first his Kingdom and his righteousness;……..
Ramotswa UCCSA Congregational has been engaged in the building of a new church structure for a long time.
and all these things shall be added to you.”
–
Matthew
6:33
Ramotswa
UCCSA Congregational has been engaged in the building of a new church structure
for a long time. To be exact, it’s been more than 5 years since it began work
on the foundation. In the 2 years that I
have been serving as pastor, there were countless times we thought that
completion of the project was just around the corner. However, each time we
came close to realizing that goal, a new obstacle would appear in front of us-
a lack of money, no contractor, receiving the necessary approvals from
government, finding the right materials. Yes, the obstacles became so many,
that we even began to wonder whether it was God’s will. Life is like that, isn’t it? No matter how hard we try to get ahead in
this life; to do the right thing or draw closer to God- seemingly
insurmountable obstacles come our way.
This
congregation is testimony that seeking the Kingdom of God is never be about
fretting about what we have, don’t have or should have. Nor does it involve any
kind of magic formula for success; no sure-fire methods for church growth; no
particular style of worship; no special age bracket to be emphasized. The congregation has grown over the last
couple of years, based on an ethos of “attempting to be faithful and allowing
God to transform our lives in whatever way God pleases.” “… seek
first his Kingdom and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added to
you.”
I am happy to report that the
roofing of the new church structure is scheduled to be completed by the last
Sunday of October, which is also the day of their annual Thobo (Thanksgiving)
celebration. In the midst of that thanksgiving- a number of projects remain to
be realized- flooring, windows and doors.
Last Sunday, the children of
the church hosted the worship service. Seventeen youngsters along with their
Church School teacher lifted our spirits with prayer, music and a challenging
group sermon. This was all carried out in our current place of worship- a small
structure measuring 10ft by 20 ft.; with buckets of nails, hammers and roofing
sheets scattered throughout. We had reason to give thanks to God!
Ramotswa UCCSA continues to
have a strong commitment to social outreach- HIV & AIDS, clothing drives,
economic empowerment; visiting the sick and actively receiving all who enter
the church’s premises with hospitality.
At Kgolagano College of
Theological Education, students of all age brackets are engaged in a variety of
theological educational programs- from certificate to bachelor degree. Because
the majority of them are self-supporting (receiving no scholarships from
government nor denominations), they persevere in their hope of serving God and
the Church; and 
despite seemingly insurmountable obstacles placed in their way.
Please keep these students in your prayers.
We are
appreciative of the many people who have shared in this project wherever
they may be. It is always nice to be
remembered and to know that you don’t stand alone as you face life’s
challenges. Praise God.
God bless,
Jim and Jayanthi Wilson
James &
Jayanthi Wilson are missionaries with the Kgolagano Theological College in
Gaborone, Botswana. Jim serves as an instructor at Kgolagano Theological College. Jayanthi is seconded to the Botswana Synod and assigned to Kgolagano Theological
College. She serves as librarian at Kgolagano College
and will continue to work with the Sedibeng Centre.