They trickled in by twos and threes…
They trickled in by twos and threes; some were assisted, while yet others came in slowly by themselves. They were sprawled throughout the sanctuary- some on the floor, some on comfortable padded chairs, and others on wooden benches.
“Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.” -Galatians 6:9
They trickled in by twos and threes; some were assisted, while yet others came in slowly by themselves. They were sprawled throughout the sanctuary- some on the floor, some on comfortable padded chairs, and others on wooden benches.
A few months ago, I had the opportunity of preaching at Mogoditshane UCCSA Church, on the occasion of a special Sunday celebration to uplift and stand in solidarity with those individuals who would not normally be able to attend church– the elderly. To make this happen, the church’s deacons arranged for transport for most of these individuals from their homes to the church. Thus, when the worship service began at 10:30 a.m. the church was full. Yes, it was a special service- a time of fellowship, prayer, and communion.
It was a wonderful celebration which provided numerous opportunities of “reconnection” with friends, family and neighbors- “inclusion” and being a community. Some might say that such endeavors are “just too much work for a one-time event;” a band-aid kind of ministry. However, from my observation, any and all such efforts to meaningfully touch people’s lives- embraces and gives power to God’s inspired Word; i.e. “let us not become weary in doing good….” is never in vain.
I can still remember one elderly person at that event, who arrived just before the benediction. Having settled himself on a chair, he smiled, greeted his friends near and about, bowed his head in a moment of prayer and then motioned to one of the deacons to come to where he was sitting to receive his offering. Being at that worship service and seeing that person’s joy at being included in the celebration, reminded me of why we have reason to give thanks to God for individuals who touch the lives of people…”who do not grow weary.” Yes, by the power of God, we can positively affect the lives of people around us.
After completing a three year term in Botswana, Jayanthi and I will be returning to North America via India (where Jayanthi’s parents reside) during the first week of December. Afterwards, we’ll leave for Fargo, North Dakota- arriving on the 18th where we will spend the Christmas holidays with family. Then, on Jan 4, 2009, we will begin a four month period of deputation with Global Ministries- visiting churches; re-connecting with old friends; developing new friendships; and being afforded an opportunity to share about the many ways God is touching lives in Botswana and how the people there through the power of the Holy Spirit have also touched ours. At the same time, it is an opportunity for us to see firsthand how the Church in North America is also touching people’s lives; sharing the good news that Jesus Christ is Lord; and who “do not become weary in doing good.” It is a privilege to share the Good News on behalf of Global Ministries. We truly look forward to meeting as many of you as might be possible while in North America during the first half of 2009.
Since we would have packed our belongings, begun our travels (with little access to e-mail), we take this time now to say, “May God’s blessings be with you this Christmas (A ditshegotfatso tsa Morena di nne le wena mo nakong ya Kresemose.).
Sincerely,
Jim and Jayanthi Wilson
James & Jayanthi Wilson are missionaries with the Kgolagano Theological College in Gaborone, Botswana. Jim serves as a teacher of theology at Kgolagana Theological College. Jayanthi serves as seconded staff to the Mabogo Dinku Advice Centre in Gaborone, Botswana. She works in community development at the Mabogo Dinku Advice Centre.