Door to door visits have been a common ministry while I have been in Africa. I am struggling with it. Door to door ministry is really about forming relationships, something I am usually pretty good at, but I seem to be having trouble. Others on my team are thriving, while I am left feeling confused. When we return home at night I am exhausted but when I considered my efforts to relate I feel they were lacking. At the end of the day, I don’t remember individual men and women; their faces are a blur in my head.
There was one particular day in Uganda that things were especially challenging. Only one pastor showed up to be our translator. So we could not divide into our normal groups of 2-3, but instead we ventured out as a group of 11. When we arrived at the first home, only four teammates were invited inside-the living room was too small. The second and third house were the same. In frustration, and effort to get out of the blazing African sun, I sat down in the shade. Soon one of the neighborhood children sat down next to me. I gave her a high five. Then another child came to sit with us, and another, and another. It wasn’t long before a large group had gathered; most likely all the village kids had come to play with the mzungus (white people).
There was one particular day in Uganda that things were especially challenging. Only one pastor showed up to be our translator. So we could not divide into our normal groups of 2-3, but instead we ventured out as a group of 11. When we arrived at the first home, only four teammates were invited inside-the living room was too small. The second and third house were the same. In frustration, and effort to get out of the blazing African sun, I sat down in the shade. Soon one of the neighborhood children sat down next to me. I gave her a high five. Then another child came to sit with us, and another, and another. It wasn’t long before a large group had gathered; most likely all the village kids had come to play with the mzungus (white people).
We had a great time that afternoon. We sang songs. I taught them Bible songs in English; they taught me songs in Luo and I still have no idea what they mean. We played games and had relays. I taught them “cool’ handshakes and we played with my camera (Always the kids favorite.).
When the rest of my team had finished their visits, they found me and said it was time to go. I said goodbye to the kids and they excitedly practiced their new handshakes with all of my teammates. We again said goodbye, got in the van, and went home. When we returned home that night I enthusiastically shared the details of my afternoon, all the fun and laughter. At the end of that day, I remembered individual eyes and smiles. I formed relationships. I remembered faces.
I fully expect that I will again make door to door visits during my remaining time in Africa. I also expect that God will continue to stretch me and teach me new ways to relate to His people. I am thankful that He is patient with me as I learn. And I am also thankful that He provides joy and encouragement while I am struggling.
