2 Timothy 1
“…Retain the standard of sound words which
you have heard from me, in the faith and love which are in Christ Jesus. Guard,
through the Holy Spirit who dwells in us, the treasure which has been entrusted
to you…”
Who am I?
Why am I here?
These
questions weave subtly through the fabric of existence. If they are ignored,
the answers remain tucked within the Hem. Some look for the answers in various
pockets and folds, but they fail to properly and diligently rip the one Seam that gives way to a bond with the eternal tapestry. To those who search
and pry along the Seam, the Hem will reveal a knot already severed and a thread
readily removed. I pray that many cloths will join the eternal tapestry through
the strong and vibrant with Hems wide open.
Bryce and
Gerald concluded their series of three discussions among young men on campus,
with a celebration of our time together and an evaluation of God-given identity
and the purpose through which that identity is fulfilled. It was a surprising
group that came to the Masona residence that evening: Shiloh, who has been meeting
with Chapo for quite some time but has been missing as of late; Gerald, our
friend and ally; Godfrey, the busy engineering student who shares sleeping
space with Gerald; and Chips, whom Gerald invited moments before he came. The
meat was good; the discussion was better; and the sendoff was full hope.
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| Farewell Gathering at Chapo's Home |
On Sunday
evening, Bryce and I joined our friend Asa and the youth at the nearby
Lighthouse Christian Church where we have been a weekly visitor. The recent
graduate of Copperbelt University has been an integral member of the youth
fellowship, demonstrating great faith and integrity while facilitating the
gatherings alongside Chapo. Through generous encouragements, Asa stands out as
a highlight from among a body of unforgettable young people, who all exhibited
a sincere passion for God. Our time with them has been marked with thanksgiving
in prayer, and joyful celebration for prayers answered. The discussions Bryce
and I facilitated were equally necessary and encouraging for them and for us.
Our ties to the Lord in spirit will retain for us unity across continents and
oceans, even as I have enjoyed with those on the team and those at home.
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| Youth Members of Lighthouse Christian Church in Kitwe |
I have
logged countless kilometers on foot. I have traversed factors more by bus. I
came and went eleven ways, eleven times. The weeks have sifted through my
fingers, almost as easily as the previous forty-four. Two nights ago, I added a
second final farewell to my tally behind the peach-colored building at Plot 62
Central Street. It is enough to make me question the finality of such parting
words. The complications of travel through the last twenty-four hours have
established a fine case that I may not need to think about coming back
long-term. Zambia seems reluctant to let me leave at all. Just as we have until
now, we will continue to trust God. The flight we had established as our mode
of escape has left without us.
We pray. We
wait. We hang on to the promises of the Father who cares. We continue to be disciples
even when circumstances are unfavorable. Nostalgia for Zambia will have to
wait. We are, as it turns out, not finished. The things we have yet to learn
are great, and the growth we welcome in our lives even greater. I am not
certain what that may still entail. However, I do know that I can give myself
more reason for nostalgia through a few more Zambian memories in the coming
hours. In two sunrises, I shall hope to turn the page and invite the next
chapter.
