Africa: I’m really struggling to give you a picture of this place. This is the 3rd blog I’ve started and each time, it just doesn’t capture what I want, no, what I need, you to know.
So, I’ll tell you a story. Today I was asked to come over to a young couple’s house to encourage them and pray for them. This couple has been married for 2 years. About a year ago this couple had a baby girl. She only lived 10 days. On Friday, this woman miscarried her second child.
I arrive wondering what on earth I could possibly say to make the situation any better. Drea and I have already had a stressful day- our group lead the entire church service (African style- skits, testimonies, preaching, & worship) and then we had entertained people in our home. But I just knew I had to get to this couple’s house. I needed to see them, God told me so, but I just had nothing clear to say.
When we arrive, the couple is smiling, sitting on the couch, yelling “Caribou!” (Welcome!) And nothing is said about their loss. The would-be mom looks put together, comfortable, and well, happy. So I do what I do best and just go with the flow of conversation.
Eventually her husband starts talking about the joy of the Lord and how sad they are that she miscarried but that they are certain that God has bigger and better plans. They trust that God has a will & a purpose and they will continue to praise His name.
Wait: isn’t that exactly what I’ve been taught not to say in times of grief? “God has a plan & purpose.” “It’s all for the glory of God.” “Have faith, trust in God’s timing.”
I’m sure that I’ve been told by multiple people that this is inappropriate, condescending, and just plain wrong. So I question and I wonder: Do they really mean it?
Bottom line, they do. They truly believe in praising God in all circumstances. Sure they can grieve, it is heart-wrenching, but they have joy because of Jesus. They have hope that somehow God will make the desires of their heart come true. They know His plans are better than theirs.
And to me, this is Africa: the resiliency, the hope, the joy!
Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard you hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:4-7
Embracing African life: braids, joy & all!
