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I have always thought of social media in terms of a ministry tool…a vehicle through which I could reach people through cyberspace with positive words of encouragement. As well as a platform from which to launch various mission initiatives, an instrument to raise awareness, and a conduit to solicit prayer.
My opinion has not changed in spite of the many who misuse it to air their personal grievances, to mock others, slander others, or attack others. That is unfortunate…but they breathe just as I do, and I am not about to give up breathing! Here we have learned that any tool can be used as a weapon, but a nail needs a hammer and so we use for good what others use for evil.
The pandemic has wreaked havoc in many parts of our beautiful world, and southern Africa is no exception. Those who were not able to work went hungry, and in spite of some valiant and commendable efforts by governments and NGO’s, poverty began to grind down the most vulnerable. We have done what we could to assist where we could. Louise has been helping those who work with a nonprofit called “Pots filled with Love”, a feeding scheme that tries to ensure that over 1000 children get a square meal as often as possible. Thanks to many generous folks, we were able to raise a bit of money to help pay for this food. The workers are all volunteers…every went into the meals.
Of course, there are some who would seek to capitalize even on the struggles and sorrows of others. Like with social media, there is little we can do about that. But we know that Jesus told us that we ought to give freely as we have received freely and we take him quite literally…our time, our money, our gifts and talents, and our efforts. And hopefully, those who are on the receiving end will know that there is a God who cares…that’s why we are here…to walk as Jesus walked…to love as he loved…to be the reflection of his compassion and mercy and grace in a place where misery eclipses any ray of joy.
Johann has continued to serve in a small way at the little Anglican Church in Villiersdorp by recording talks on the various Scripture readings in the lectionary. He has also submitted his final draft of his book, “Breakfast on the Beach: The Development of Simon Peter” to Langham publishers. They are currently reviewing it and will let us know in a few weeks’ time whether they will actually publish it or not. Archbishop Mouneer Anis of the newly formed Province of Alexandria graciously wrote the foreword to this book.
Johann has also started to write a sequel to this book, “To Us – To Our Children – To The World: The Multiplication of Simon Peter…he is in his element and enjoying the research. He just misses many of his books, especially those written by the Early Church Fathers, left behind in the US and in the library of St Frumentius in Gambela. But the internet has been most helpful, and he has managed to limp on in spite of not having all the resources available. Libraries and Universities are still largely closed to the public.
We cannot express our gratitude adequately to those who have supported us financially and emotionally and spiritually. 2020 has been a tough year for most of us…our health took a wee bit of a knock, but both Louise and I are back up to snuff and rearing to go once the lockdown measures have been eased.
We pray for all our supporters…as I have said countless times before, we simply cannot do what we do without our support teams. Thank you, a million times, over and over.
Blessings, cyber hugs, and love
Johann and Louise
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