Dear J-Bay,
From the very first glimpse I saw of you, I knew there was something different. I could feel it well before we had actually arrived within your streets. There was a sense of home – a place to belong and be in community. It isn’t a feeling I often get but every time I do, it makes me feel so refreshed, welcomed, and loved. Throughout last month, I caught glimpses of a community that understands what it means to be the body of Christ. I’m not sure I ever completely figured out who’s who and which groups are doing which things but one thing is obvious – the community of believers is very strong and they are making a difference. Just from the little time I was able to spend there, I understand why you joked about the J standing for Jesus not Jeffrey’s Bay.
I have spent several hours praying for you. I keep seeing you as a river with many sounds but one message, many parts but one body.
I am standing with my back to a river. I can’t see it but I know it is there because I can hear it even though I am not close to it. I can hear so many different sounds all coming from the same river. I am drawn to the sound. As I turn around, I can see it rushing through a rocky crevice, winding through a field, flowing through woods and continuing on beyond my sight. As I draw closer to the river’s banks, I lose the ability to hear as many sounds but that doesn’t mean they have ceased, only that my perspective and focus has changed. One thing I do know is that all the sounds proclaim the same message.
May you not grow weary of doing good and may a God continue to supply the workers for the harvest.
Thank you for the way you welcomed me and my team into your community. I learned lessons that I will carry with me for the rest of my life. I hope that someday I get to return but if not, know that you will always hold a very special place in my heart. Until we meet again…
