I share this story as a simple lesson in unconscious bias. As pastors in training we demonstrated our own prejudice. No doubt we demonstrate such prejudice every day without thinking as we did in the comfort of our classroom. Prejudice is sin; prejudice is a deep rooted sin in the church and we need to reflect, acknowledge and repent of our sin.
Journey
Mutare to Harare
We drive onwards through the rain. Our driver is from the Harare area and is there able to talk a little about the places we pass. I am struck at one point when he points to an area that looks like an area that is simply a natural area of trees and vegetation. Our driver says that this was a farm that grew Gum Trees, they produce naturally straight poles which are used to construct houses. It is perhaps the first time I have knowingly seen such a farm, the result of the land appropriation of the early 2000's resulting in the exodus of white farmers.
Lessons in Being a Tourist in Africa (Part 1)
Lesson 1: Don't be an arse! Lesson 2: Respect and honour. Lesson 3: Wear Sunscreen! Lesson 4: Don't frighten the wildlife. Lesson 5: Be prepared for rain. Lesson 6: Observe the sky. Lesson 7: Expect surprises.
Biblical Homosexuality
Starting Out Whenever I go on a journey there are three things I always have with me – wallet, phone and keys. Whether it’s walking the kids to school, driving across the country or flying to another part of the world I will always have these items. They each have a place in a pocket … Continue reading Biblical Homosexuality
The Departure Board
Standing in front of a departure board I enjoy dreaming about the possibilities of all the destinations listed. Standing in the same place looking in the same direction does not mean that everyone is heading to the same destination and neither does it mean they have come from the same place. So it is with the Church and human sexuality. Scripture is being reread, re-examined and studied as those within the Church look at the departure board and ask whether they will stay put or go on a journey. Are we prepared to end up somewhere new or to one day return to the point of departure having experienced more of the wider world?
