South Africa

As is to be expected, I'm still stumbling my way through processing my three weeks in South Africa. And although I'm generally not a violent person, I may actually inflict bodily harm, albeit minor, on the next person who asks, "So how was Africa?"

I will say though that one of the many delights and privileges of this last trip was getting to know my friend Tom Smith better. Tom, I feel like you're my South African brother. One of the things we're doing "together" is exploring some African theology. (And just this morning I was able to say hello to his two beautiful children on Skype!) Although it almost seems presumptuous of me to point this out, being the westerner that I am, you should know that Tom has written what I think is a vitally important post called An Open Letter to South African Friends. And despite the title, I think it is at least as important that we westerners read the letter too.

I believe these are dynamic and critical days in the church globally, and I also believe Africa will likely play a lead role in whatever is to come.

Comments

[wilsonian]

Such a good piece, Mike. Thanks for the link. From my own experience, I know that some of the world's greatest teachers on faith are Swazi grandmothers. Humble me to the core.

I totally agree, that Africa is stepping into a leading role. And I also believe it is time for Canadians, and Australians, and Brazilians, and Chinese... to step up into our own roles.

[Tom Smith]

Thanks Mike you are a brother and a friend

[Darrell]

Mike, the question "so how was Africa?" is the best many westerns can do because they have no point of context. I lived in Africa for a number of years and my experience is people's eyes would glaze over as I tried to answer the question. Now no one even asks anymore - not because I bored them, but because ...

[Mike]

Oh, I know Darrell. Some of my friends don't ask because they know that it's an impossible question to ask, and that whatever I have to say will come out eventually. In fact, that's why my community insisted on the emails, because they knew a lot of it wouldn't come out at all.

I know exactly what you mean though.