Last year when I was considering a return to South Africa, part of my vision was to help teach the Bible to men in Red Hill. The biggest obstacles to that have been identifying people to attend and figuring out a way around the language barrier (because the men are much stronger in their native Xhosa than English).
Now, with my colleague Mzo living in Red Hill, both challenges have been met. Mzo has built relationships with his neighbors and invited a number of men to be part of the study, and we are able to co-teach the material, with him translating anytime I speak. The curriculum, Men of the Banner, was developed at LowCountry Community Church in Bluffton, South Carolina and helps men realize the freedom and identity they have as followers of Jesus Christ.
Last week we held our first session, with two men, Lennox and Zweloke, present.Two is not a lot, but it’s not about numbers, it’s about hearts that God can speak to. Both guys returned for the second session this week, which we took as an encouraging sign that they’re interested in the teaching. Neither one seems to know Jesus as his personal savior yet, but they are hearing about Him in this study every week and we are trusting the Holy Spirit to move in their hearts and bring them to know Him.
So, if you are the praying type, please lift up Lennox and Zweloke – for them to enter into a growing relationship with God and to become part of the male leadership that their community so desperately needs. Also, two other men, Siya and Loyiso, have indicated interest in the study, so we’re praying that they’ll show up as well.
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