The first day of teaching has come to an end and now we have been experiencing an hour or so downpour. After church yesterday (4/20), we enjoyed a good meal at Aroma Café. K enjoyed a steak and cheese panini while Frank and I (Spencer) enjoyed some Sambosa (chopped meat fried in a wonton type crust). We also enjoyed some “chips.” Chips in Rwanda means any size of fried potatoes. We get them for every meal in the house and luckily Frank brought his own Ketchup to share.
Last night and this morning, 24 church leaders arrived from various locations throughout Rwanda. Several of the leaders were delayed in transit because the buses and public transportation were busy with students being returned to boarding schools after a 3-week break. The break corresponds to the remembrance of the Genocide of 1994 that Rwanda experienced 21 years ago. It is challenging and convicting to see a country in which everyone has a story and was affected by death or was involved in the deaths of fellow Rwandans. A country where forgiveness and reconciliation must occur for progress and a bright future. The church is leading the cause with Hutu’s and Tutsi’s sitting in the same churches, in the same rows, holding hands and praising Jesus who gave us the ultimate example. There is much all of us can learn from this situation and can apply to our own lives. We have no reason or excuse for forgiveness and reconciliation not to occur. No disagreement or argument compares to the killing of families, friends, and neighbors.
Last night and this morning, 24 church leaders arrived from various locations throughout Rwanda. Several of the leaders were delayed in transit because the buses and public transportation were busy with students being returned to boarding schools after a 3-week break. The break corresponds to the remembrance of the Genocide of 1994 that Rwanda experienced 21 years ago. It is challenging and convicting to see a country in which everyone has a story and was affected by death or was involved in the deaths of fellow Rwandans. A country where forgiveness and reconciliation must occur for progress and a bright future. The church is leading the cause with Hutu’s and Tutsi’s sitting in the same churches, in the same rows, holding hands and praising Jesus who gave us the ultimate example. There is much all of us can learn from this situation and can apply to our own lives. We have no reason or excuse for forgiveness and reconciliation not to occur. No disagreement or argument compares to the killing of families, friends, and neighbors.
This flame is lit every year for 100 days to commemorate the 100 of Genocide in 1994.
Today as we were teaching, there were no divisions. They are “Only Rwandan” and ultimately united as brothers and sisters in Christ. When we opened up the book Acts, we began by teaching the background information. We taught and will continue to teach them to ask questions concerning the texts at hand. (Who, what, when, where, why, how). After some group practice at answering the questions, we were able to start discussing and understanding the text. Today, we got all the way through Acts 1:5!!!! Yes, we got through 5 verses.
The pastors and leaders are asking questions that would seem basic for many Bible college students, which shows the lack of understanding and knowledge. Yet, they are not afraid to ask…or in other words, THEY WANT TO KNOW but just haven’t been taught. They have a hunger and thirst for the Scriptures that would be hard to replicate within the churches of the United States. Their desire and devotion is contagious and reassuring.
God has great things in store for Rwanda and His Church within its borders. There is much more to learn from this group. Until next time…
Today as we were teaching, there were no divisions. They are “Only Rwandan” and ultimately united as brothers and sisters in Christ. When we opened up the book Acts, we began by teaching the background information. We taught and will continue to teach them to ask questions concerning the texts at hand. (Who, what, when, where, why, how). After some group practice at answering the questions, we were able to start discussing and understanding the text. Today, we got all the way through Acts 1:5!!!! Yes, we got through 5 verses.
The pastors and leaders are asking questions that would seem basic for many Bible college students, which shows the lack of understanding and knowledge. Yet, they are not afraid to ask…or in other words, THEY WANT TO KNOW but just haven’t been taught. They have a hunger and thirst for the Scriptures that would be hard to replicate within the churches of the United States. Their desire and devotion is contagious and reassuring.
God has great things in store for Rwanda and His Church within its borders. There is much more to learn from this group. Until next time…
RSS Feed