This second get together/fellowship was opened in prayer by JP and followed by worship coordinated by Llewellyn and Jenni. Mario emphasized the importance of good fellowship and read from Hebrews 10:16. A fruitful discussion followed.
Pastor David shared with us his experiences at the "temporary" refugee camp in Centurion. Many foreigners have fled to these camps as a result of xenophobia which is currently taking place in our country. The camp leaders do not lack resources for these people, but the distribution of these resources triggers anarchy, greed and jealousy which lead to fighting and chaos.
Fortunately, the situation is changing and the camp is turning into a model camp. Stability has come about because of the Spirit of God. Pastor David and others, who selflessly serve here, soon earned the respect of the refugees by showing them lots of love. It is evident that the greatest need of these people is not food, clothes, or shelter but rather discipleship. They need to know Jesus Christ as Lord and Saviour. As they learn to obey Christ their hearts will change. They/we must unlearn being followers of man and become followers of God.
Camp leaders were selected from among their own people which brings us to the main goal of Pastor David's involvement there: to make these leaders disciples so they can disciple their own people. (Now this is cross-cultural missions without even leaving the country!!) There is still opportunity for anyone interested to get involved.
Hi gang just a word from Mario. Well Saterday's meeting joggled a couple of cords that God has placed on my heart for the nations.Things that I was reminded of is leading somone in disciple ship will cost you a sacrefice. That is probably why there arent hundreds of people lining up to do it. The cost of not doing it is far more comfotable but the consiquenses are far greater. Possibly our country is in the violance that it is in because no one stood up to desciple anyone years ago
ReplyDeleteThanks everyone for making Saturday evening so special. We really enjoyed it thoroughly. The discussions were interesting and thought provoking. We were inspired by Pastor Dave as he gave us a lot to think about. So much so that we can't sleep anymore. Looking forward to next week. This is real truthful fellowship. Llewellyn and Jenni
ReplyDeleteWell, I felt a bit under the weather on Saturday and didn't attend ... now, remorse for not being there!! I so wish I did go to hear Pastor Dave, for in my heart I have been dealing with the same issue: why would I want to go to South America (or anywhere else for that matter) if our country is a hub of all the nations of Africa who are soooo in need of the Gospel - and many people seem to know about it already and are showing eagerness for discipleship. I agree with Don Mario that our beautiful country is in this violent state because for years everyone's just been ignoring the mission field under our noses and waiting for 'revival'in their own congregations!!
ReplyDeleteI do also acknowledge that God places certain nations on the hearts of certain people, like our dear friends Deon, Corne and Phillip in Thailand.
But we are here and now. I want to get involved with this Centurion camp. God guides and protects us where He sends us! Sonia
What I also learned from Saturday's fellowship is to 'unlearn' the things our culture, family and church learned us and learn straight from God. He has the whole truth and not a human interpretation.
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On the funny side. Take a lesson from JJ if you dont want your photo to be taken it will be displayed on the world wide blog for every body to see Love Mario
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