Saturday in Cape Town

After some quality breakfast time with our host families, the team was sadly informed that we would not be able to visit Robben Island. Without much of a plan for the morning, thanks to the bad news, Gersh thought it would be a good idea to learn about his hometown. We spent the day in downtown Cape Town. Apparently we looked like a bunch of tourists with our backpacks and cameras, because on multiple occasions we got the life stories and views on the world cup from some drunk guys. A few of the girls had come up to me explaining their thoughts and feelings about the day’s agenda and how we weren’t spending much time helping the people of this country and spreading God’s love. We were blessed to have affected the lives of so many in Soweto, and blessed to have helped change the effects of apartheid and the racial relationship in that community. With that said, its obvious the team is desiring more. I tried to restore the reality that this trip was a 20-day mission that it was also a time for us to strengthen our faith and come home different people. Some time in the city wouldn’t hurt.

Lord behold a Zimbabwean man by the name of Smart. As we were walking through the downtown area with Zach, a man stopped Peter asking for bread (not money, which many have asked for). Peter grabbed me (who was totally clueless to what was going on) and told me to join him on what would soon be one powerful experience. Thankfully Zach, our designated communicator and guide, joined us on our short walk to an underground grocery store. Long story semi-short, the three of us bought him some bread, peanut butter and milk, along with a few essentials such as a toothbrush. Zach made it clear to Smart that we weren’t buying him food solely because he’s poor and needs help, but because we believe that Christ calls us to love on others and help one another through Him. Smart quickly understood the gift wasn’t out of pity, as many gifts to the poor are. Anyway, we asked Smart to join us in prayer before we departed. We pray that Smart will find the Lord and understand that God will provide enough for his survival.

Gershwin has reminded us to just be open and God will do the rest. Although Peter is typically found dozing off into his own little world ☺, I am so thankful he had the open and caring heart to jumpstart God’s work.

Colton

PS We took the train back to Retreat (the suburb where Gersh’s mom lives) and then spent the rest of the night with our host families.