I have been reflecting on what I saw and experienced in Zimbabwe, the physiological, political and financial needs, the church, the business, the searching for a saviour and the reflections I see in the UK. My reflections bring me to the theme of water. What concerns me is the church has become reliant on models of delivering sanitised spirituality through a Victorian system or a bottled version with exaggerated promises.
Methodist
In Search of Salvation
As a team of mostly white European Christian’s we rely on our money, tablets, bottled water, lotions, potions, phones, wifi, we don't rely on God. We rely on our intellect to win the game of politics of church power and control. We rely on safe foods, hand sanitizer, ability to bride, insurance, contacts in high places ... who is our God?
Buildings and People (Part 2)
The singing is great, only this time we are required to dance when our name is called. It is a somewhat embarrassing experience, though fun, I am pleased that none of us are famous enough to warrant TV crews who will share footage far and wide. It is enough to say, white folk can't dance!
Buildings and People (Part 1)
Whilst I am interested in buildings, it was not the most enthralling visit. The new offices will be substantial in size and I suspect and very nice place in which to work and meet. I was however, most interested in the construction process and the almost sculpture like wooden scaffolding winding around the building and providing a wooden ramp from the ground to the roof.
The Old Mutare Mission
I wonder about the history before Rhodes, but this is a history almost destroyed by the era of colonisation and post-inpendence. I'm concerned that only looking back to the days when Zimbabwe was apparently known as the breadbasket of Africa will not bring the answers Zimbabwe needs.
The Long Drive
Onwards we travelled for a further 2 hours. More time to close my eyes and rest. As I became more accustomed to my seat I think I did manage to doze off on this occasion for a few moments. I would wake as we stopped for the usual road blocks of cattle, goats and police or occasionally as our driver braked behind a vehicle, unable to overtake because of the traffic (usually a truck) heading in the opposite direction.
Education, Training and Employment
He also left me with the question, “what is the face of the church?” At the moment I am unsure. I am not sure that the Church is a positive reflection of Jesus. It may well be a body that is broken and beaten but not necessarily from the doing of others but of self harm and self abuse.
Bulawayo Church
It is great to hear the music, the sound of a few simple instruments and the beauty of the singing.
Lessons in Being a Tourist in Africa (Part 2)
Lesson 8: Be prepared to wait. Lesson 9: Experience the Victoria Falls. Lesson 10: Crocodile tastes like chicken. Lesson 11: Don't feed the monkeys. Lesson 12:
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.
The Broken Church 