A few weeks ago Gary gave us a term which describes one of my new life goals: Ninja Grandma. These super heroes are out kicking butt in ministry and walking in the power of God. There is no retirement age… they know their call and they are dedicated to their cause. If you’re like me, you probably know a few of these at home. I come from a church that is pastored by one such Grandmother. In Africa we have learned that in the church there is a seemingly higher super grandma per population ratio than the rest of the world. These women are amazing! Because of the AIDS issues ravaging Africa many of them outlive their children’s generation. They are leaders in their church and take care of raising children, grandchildren, and the community.
Last week we spent a few days teaching at a church that is chocked full of them. Pastor Lara, who, took over as pastor after her husband died a few years ago, leads the church. She is a firey little preacher with a huge heart. Every morning she went to school and came running in to catch the last teaching after lunch.
We all fell in love with a woman named Sarah (go figure J). She has this amazing presence that can’t be quite explained in words. She has really bright eyes and the mannerisms of a shy child when you catch her looking at you and smile at her. You receive a little grin and the shy “look away.” We developed a friendship over the name bond and she would show up with millimeal (corn) for me. Sidenote: they grill it right on the coals and it tastes like popcorn on the cob… amazing.
A teammate asked Pastor Lara about Sarah. We found out that we were dealing with the queen of hospitality for their church. She said lots of times by the time she tells Sarah visitors are coming she already has a meal going on the fire. Sarah is also a fantastic friend to Pastor Lara… when her husband died Sarah moved into her house with her because she didn’t want her to have to be alone. She said, “if you are alone too much you will think bad thoughts so I will stay with you to keep you company.”
Here is a “Sarah Picture” we took one day:
Did I mention the dancing? These women could break it down. Before, during, and after teachings we would have a dance party. We tried our best to keep up… but their energy level is through the roof.
Here’s a few pictures of our team trying to keep up:
Finally, we were teaching a smaller younger congregation. We were wondering where they were keeping the super Grandmas when this gem appeared from the crowd. I think she is probably about 90. She stomped her feet with all she’s got and would lean up against the poles of the church to rest between songs. When everyone was finished singing she just stood there with this look on her face that said “that’s all we got?”
