In my last blog to you, now nine days ago, I sensed that I have entered a moment of waiting: after energies expended prior to my traveling to Lilongwe; after energies expended while caring for Malawian church leaders, upon returning home reflection prevails. And yet, I know that this is not altogether accurate.
Yes, I now seek to understand what did occur during my nineteen-day excursion to Malawi – and some of that understanding occurs as I share the experience with others, and even with you. But the word “reflection,” which I just employed might convey a sense of “passivity” or “inaction,” and such a conveyance is inaccurate. Daily, and the thoughts are not just random, my heart and mind turn to Malawi, not to the country, but to the face of Malawi: the twenty-five pastors, with whom I engaged in John’s Gospel; the leaders of Kaning’a CCAP, with whom I sang, sorrowed and studied; my dining friends, who graciously opened their homes to me, that I might share a meal with them; and most certainly my host family, two who have become brother and sister to me.
I think of these – and pray for these – perhaps as the Apostle Paul did in relating to the flocks he established and care for. Although he has been characterized variously (and often critically), I am thankful that Paul wrote letters, which reveal the heart of a loving pastor. For instance, I delight in 1Thessalonians, where we read of Paul’s underlying concern for the Thessalonians: In the midst of persecution, would they remain faithful to Jesus Christ? Midway through his letter, he received the answer he longed for:
“But now that Timothy has come to us from you, and has brought us the good news of your faith and love and reported that you always remember us kindly and long to see us, as we long to see you – for this reason, brothers and sisters, in all our distress and affliction we have been comforted about you through your faith. For now we live, if you are standing fast in the Lord.” (1Thessalonians 3:6-8)
During these days after my recent visit to Malawi, I do reflect, I do share, I do pray – and I need to address still unattended details remaining from that visit – but mostly I do these because the task has not been completed: caring for pastors in Malawi (and elsewhere?). Plans need to be made for a return visit in 2018 – perhaps with others accompanying me.
More to come,
Stan