Once again, it takes an experience outside of my own comfort zone to bring life into a clear perspective again! Once again, a contrast exists that is as great as and bigger than black and white. Wonderful to see how a picture full of contrast is a beautiful image that speaks louder than words.
The image is against the backdrop of a village in Limpopo province called Mmamethlake, a village that exists in a hostile environment, stark, dry red ground, and a dusty haze in the air defines this sun beaten place. Shade comes at a premium and every inch is taken up by a life trying to maintain some small amount of comfort.
It is an image of 18 teenagers and young adults residing in upper class suburbs of Pretoria East emersing themselves for four days in this harsh climate and foreign environment. The objective foremost in their minds is to share their firsthand experience, knowledge and expertise in running and participating in a Holiday Club with five local churches in the Mmamethlake region. My objective possibly a little broader, not only to benefit those to whom we are taking our experience but to enrich th
e lives of these 18 young people who are with me, through service for Jesus Christ to those less fortunate than themselves (in many respects but not all). Limited running water, camping in dusty tents and no flushing toilets hardly brings the word "enrich" to one's mind but these obstacles will become the images of "hardship" which will forge the understanding and gratitude of privilages not everyone gets to experience for a long time to come. The experience is an image that will allow them to see the value in relationships and community, slowing down and waiting, savoring every little gift God provides and not taking our material blessings for granted.Living and working alongside each other is a contrast that I believe changes perceptions, and the hearts and minds of both sides and it is a beautiful image that can only exist in acceptance and love for one another. It is an image painted by the hand of Christ himself and it is an image that few will forget. To God be the Glory for these things He has done!
