Just back home after a journey of 30 hours from Zimbabwe my natural tiredness is tempered by joy. It has been such a privilege to witness first hand that the sufferings and privations experienced by Christians in that land over recent years have not destroyed their infectious joy. They may have little of what we Westerners would regard as wealth or material goods but oh boy do they rejoice in God! Despite decades of struggle and isolation due to the antics of their political leaders these people are trusting in God not in man. Their problems get put to one side when there is an opportunity for fellowship and worship. The opening and dedication of a new church building seating 1,000 people was just such an opportunity. It was such a blessing to be there last Sunday and to witness the celebrations.
Early on Sunday morning I woke in my hotel room and gazed out of the fourth floor window. Below me the street was empty of traffic, but across from the hotel on a large area of wasteland, thousands of people were walking along makeshift paths. They had left their crowded shanties on the outskirts of the city before dawn. Each one was immaculately dressed and they were singing as they walked mostly in family groups. Despite the early hour it was already getting hot, but these were Christians on their way to celebrate. Their joy is our joy too if we know and serve the same God. May their example inspire us to keep praising Him whatever life throws our way. Mwari Wakanaka (God is good!)
