They have more room now and the move has attracted people from the surrounding communities. These returnees have found it hard to be accepted by some of their neighbours. They have moved into an area that was open grazing ground for surrounding cattle keepers; resources were already scarce and the pre-existing communities have shown a bit of resentment for the loss of their grazing ground, and the sharing of their water resources.But today, some of those same people came to worship with the returnees. Not many just a handful, but the signs of inclusion are beginning to show and that’s exciting. Of course the fact that this community has the responsibility for managing a clean water source isn’t hurting their reputation either.
We sang, danced and prayed together for another three hours this morning, (I have never really been thankful for those plastic church chairs – I am now). Each person that was new had to respond, and respond they did for about 10 minutes each. Then three choirs performed: first the young girls (3 items, 20 minutes), followed by the mammas (3 items, 17 minutes) lastly a combined group (3 items, 13 minutes). Following these items the preacher revved us all up for about 25 minutes, (by this time I think my backside was numb), before the singing and dancing began again so that we could all file to the front to present our offerings.It was a clear day, warm and fresh, and the people were happy and praising God for clean water, and for life. Next time you hear me whinging about what I don’t have, remind of these people and these days!
