In Translation – Trip Notes

Bro Kis Translated The Message Into French

Bridging Ideas With Help – The First Weekend

The warmth of the African weather was renewing within me a new energy. Perhaps it was only the warm air of summer or the knowledge of knowing why I was there.

After 20 years of waiting on God’s timing I was now seeing a people I have only heard about. Now the Lord had sent me with a message to share with them.

Steve gave me time Friday and Saturday to get my feet back under me. Yet I was eager to take full advantage of each day and experience what lay ahead and to teach.

The First Worship

The sun was giving it’s first hints of lights when I woke without any alarm. Much as it would be for the next 3 weeks but today would be the first day of worship in Africa. A warm breeze flowed through the house as I read and prepared for the day. Then a light breakfast and off we went.

We arrived at a store front room and music was already filling the air. Most of the people were walking to church and a some had come by local bus transportation (small mini van’s). This worship would easily last several hours with men, woman and children in the service.

They arrived to the music already playing. I was just taking it all in. It was a French Congolese group but their languages were numerous. They were from South Africa and other countries who have come to South Africa to get away from the unrest in the rest of Africa.

More than a common Language

Most of them spoke several languages and a few knew English. French was their common language..

Despite their many tribal differences, backgrounds and languages it was more than French that held this growing group together.

When the time came it was Brother Kis who would translate for me. A difficult job but one he did very well. It was an experience to deliver the message in segments and to hear it in French.

They are a very attentive congregation and wondered how the message was being received.

Email From Bro. Kis

It wasn’t until weeks later that the Lord gave any indication to me. It came from Bro. Kis in an email.

It was so much interesting and helpful when i listened to it that sunday and i didn’t want to let it go and forget about it . for this is a type of the message that we need as children of the living God . I appreciate that you sent me the copy of the message . – Bro. Kis

At the time I could only deliver the message and trust that the right people heard and would pass it on. Unaware of this at the time wondering only what lay ahead for me over these three exciting weeks at the end of the world.

Part 2 – by Mark Vernik