Hi friends
There are some more pics on Flickr here's the link
http://flickr.com/photos/31454511@N08/
Take care.
Until next time, Eric
Friday, January 30, 2009
Wednesday, January 28, 2009
Finding Cotonou
Really it's actually not hard to find Cotonou, the problem finding Cotonou to be a happy place. It's always about the people. Here it's smoggy,
crowded, and unfriendly. But I get to see friends so it's all good. This time we are here for Visas again, Manny first time and my second. Unfortunately
we found out today that since we don't have identity cards (which are hard to get if you are not planning on spending a while), we cannot get a year visa!
So three months for us, oh well. I got to see lots of friends as I said. There is a big evangelistic campaign this week, so my good friend from Red Cross
training is here, Pastor George. We shared a room for part of training and so I was really happy to see him. Also I stopped by to see my friend Norbert, and
Nestoria came by too! Too close friends from training. They are doing well. It's amazing how God brings people together. Sure you can make friends
with non-Christians (actually we need too!), but the common bond of Christ really draws people together, though it's never perfect, but God makes it work!
God is really big. Manny was looking to get some guitar strings. Strolling around in the morning on Monday I found a music store, they had strings super.
We went later in the afternoon, and in talking to the man at the store we learned he was from Nati, after we told him we were from there. Which quarter, same
quarter we lived in! He said he'd been in Cotonou a year so far. I said I would greet all his family when we go back. He described to me his home, I said
I knew the place and he said his brothers owns a sawmill. Pierre? I ask, yes! I was just talking to him last Sabbath! Amazing. The young man was so happy.
He was reading his Bible when we walked in and so we talked a little of church, he was from Assembly of God, we said it was nice to see a young person
reading their Bible. He was in agreeance.
Had to get a part at the big Toyota dealer here in Cotonou, unfortunately there was a misunderstanding. When I last time ordered the part, the dude said it
was ordered, but I recalled after was he had asked me if I had the money, I said no, he didn't say anything else and so I assumed the part was ordered.
He didn't say that you needed a down payment to order it! So I had to reorder it. I started getting mad but forced myself to think, why this had happened?
And I eventually came to the above conclusion, I am glad, God helped me remember and treat the man with kindness. Last time I was at Toyota I noticed
something intrigueing and sad. There was an older man, maybe middle 60's, that was cleaning up and such, he was the janitor. As he cleaned their offices,
young men and women busily typed on their computers or talked on the phone, while some older business execs did the same in other offices (alot of windows there
as you can tell). He seemed not unhappy, but not really happy either, meloncoly. I thought to myself what a state to be in. I believe that there is no
uneeded job, but in reality not many young people grow up wishing to be janitors. While many janitors are loved people, that's just reality. So here
was this older man, who in his day was probably a well respected individual, living with pride for his family, maybe he still does, but how it must
feel to clean up after some young person that happened to be in a better situation growing up and was now sitting at a plush desk typing for those
people that afford nice Toyota vehicles. I never really saw anyone talk to him, greet him, or say thanks. Of course my stay was only an hour maybe, so
maybe some people did. What is my thought on it? I don't know really know. It really left me kinda empty. I would say it put a candle in my heart, to not
let another janitor or anybody without them knowing my appreciation or at least a smile!
crowded, and unfriendly. But I get to see friends so it's all good. This time we are here for Visas again, Manny first time and my second. Unfortunately
we found out today that since we don't have identity cards (which are hard to get if you are not planning on spending a while), we cannot get a year visa!
So three months for us, oh well. I got to see lots of friends as I said. There is a big evangelistic campaign this week, so my good friend from Red Cross
training is here, Pastor George. We shared a room for part of training and so I was really happy to see him. Also I stopped by to see my friend Norbert, and
Nestoria came by too! Too close friends from training. They are doing well. It's amazing how God brings people together. Sure you can make friends
with non-Christians (actually we need too!), but the common bond of Christ really draws people together, though it's never perfect, but God makes it work!
God is really big. Manny was looking to get some guitar strings. Strolling around in the morning on Monday I found a music store, they had strings super.
We went later in the afternoon, and in talking to the man at the store we learned he was from Nati, after we told him we were from there. Which quarter, same
quarter we lived in! He said he'd been in Cotonou a year so far. I said I would greet all his family when we go back. He described to me his home, I said
I knew the place and he said his brothers owns a sawmill. Pierre? I ask, yes! I was just talking to him last Sabbath! Amazing. The young man was so happy.
He was reading his Bible when we walked in and so we talked a little of church, he was from Assembly of God, we said it was nice to see a young person
reading their Bible. He was in agreeance.
Had to get a part at the big Toyota dealer here in Cotonou, unfortunately there was a misunderstanding. When I last time ordered the part, the dude said it
was ordered, but I recalled after was he had asked me if I had the money, I said no, he didn't say anything else and so I assumed the part was ordered.
He didn't say that you needed a down payment to order it! So I had to reorder it. I started getting mad but forced myself to think, why this had happened?
And I eventually came to the above conclusion, I am glad, God helped me remember and treat the man with kindness. Last time I was at Toyota I noticed
something intrigueing and sad. There was an older man, maybe middle 60's, that was cleaning up and such, he was the janitor. As he cleaned their offices,
young men and women busily typed on their computers or talked on the phone, while some older business execs did the same in other offices (alot of windows there
as you can tell). He seemed not unhappy, but not really happy either, meloncoly. I thought to myself what a state to be in. I believe that there is no
uneeded job, but in reality not many young people grow up wishing to be janitors. While many janitors are loved people, that's just reality. So here
was this older man, who in his day was probably a well respected individual, living with pride for his family, maybe he still does, but how it must
feel to clean up after some young person that happened to be in a better situation growing up and was now sitting at a plush desk typing for those
people that afford nice Toyota vehicles. I never really saw anyone talk to him, greet him, or say thanks. Of course my stay was only an hour maybe, so
maybe some people did. What is my thought on it? I don't know really know. It really left me kinda empty. I would say it put a candle in my heart, to not
let another janitor or anybody without them knowing my appreciation or at least a smile!
The Long Way Home
One of our tasks right now on our project is doing the culture study for the Ottamari people. Some of the older AFM projects were not introduced to the
culture study until later because it really has not been fully developed until now. The culture study enables the missionaries to understand
a people group's worldview, how they think and what their beliefs are, etc. This helps them create a platform to build evangelism and church
planting here. Here much planting has been done already, which the means the culture study is to help the current church grow better as well as to
continue evangelism correctly. If you have questions on what I am saying just ask.
The first step is following a bunch of people for three days each to see what their habits are, how they live, what is important to them, etc.
So a few weeks ago was Thomas and this past week it was Lamel, a retired Muslim who lives near our home. He takes regular trips to the markets in the little villages
all around Natitingou to find wild game which he sells for more in Nati, wild game is giant rat, rabbit, huge water lizards (not crocodiles, look
more gila monsters but for water, what's a gila monster, ummm, looks like a big lizard(-:), little forest birds like quails and pheasants of North America.
They usually split them open after they kill them, insides and all, the put sticks to hold them like that and dry them stiff as a board, no your right
not very appetizing. But I have seen pharmacists buy them by the sack load here.
We spent Tues, Wed, and Thursday with him. It was very interesting and even entertaining. The first day I forgot to put my camera battery in
so that ruined the pictures at the Perma village market. We walked around alot and looked for good deals on meats. The second day we got to
see a Muslim naming ceremony. It was so interesting. The child was not involved physically, but it was all so engaging. The men came in slowly,
elderly, middle aged, young men; they all sat together on mats in the middle of a group of house in a rectangle with a platter of corn in the middle
with a bowl in it. You could tell their importance by their long robes or what kind of hat they wore, plain felt, or intricate designs, or even
a type of prayer shawl over their head. Their talked and chatted enjoying the time. Then like a small ember smoking the new fragance of fire coming back to life, a voice
started praying, the another joined, a few more. In a few minutes all the men were silently with the leader in a white rob leading. At the right moments,
all the men would join in a chant, raising their hands in front of their chests palms upturned to Heaven and like an ocean wave they all together
wash their faces, in a gesture of gratitude. Not with a real water, but just symbolically washing themselves with the blessings from on high. The whole
prayer time lasted twenty or twenty five minutes; time really seemed to just flow by. One may not have noticed in an hour or a day passed, you just
seem to float on the rise and fall of the prayers of the group and individuals. As one would prayer the rest would intersperse "Praise Allah". They
all knew there part, and as a great mechanism in one accord moving, their prayers lifted into the wind.
As you can see I was enthralled by their prayers. While they really are still in an very pagan religion with the need to self-attain salvation
and the worship of a prophet, who was a man, and so forth. Their reverence and devotion I greatly respect. The sense of wonder, awe, and fear
their services produce, really are to be envied. I have not often been in an Adventist church where I walked out sensing that I faced the mystery
of an all holy God. Not that this is always neccessary, God is a God of joy too and if everything were a somber occasion, I would not
be inclined to think of God as just as sad as He is holy! Nonetheless, I do not think our greatest fear should be over becoming too joyful in church, but
too irreverent and irrespectful. There is always a balance, and that's life, exciting isn't it.
The rest of the day was visiting people and then eating too much at the ensuing feast for the baby's naming ceremony. But the rice was so good!
Thursday we went to Tigniti (pronounced T-yan-t)a little village 15 km from Nati (remember that, 15 Km). We enjoyed the time there, Manny and I, although
it was sometimes frustrating not know everything that was said in Dittimari, but Lamel gave us the gist of conversations. The day wound down rather
quickly. Lamel bought so much meet that he used up all his cash, I had plenty to get us home, but the taxi guy wanted 500 each instead of the morning's 300 each.
So Lamel suggested we start walking, why not, we'd find someone to take us. We did not. Remember the kilometres now? So we walked. We started at 5 PM
arriving at home at 9PM. We didn't stop either, only once for a few minutes to say hi to a family, but no sitting. It was a good work out, to say the least.
Our cargo was unusual, I carried a hen under one arm, and manny carried a rooster tied to his back pack and a sack of wild game in his hand. Indeed one
older black man and a couple of young white guys walk with chickens was a sight for everyone. One house we past, the people speculated that we had had
car trouble, after passing I related this Lamel, he assured us that there was no problem, as if telling it to the people we passed by.
I have recovered now, but let me tell you Manny and I slept well. Actually on Sabbath morning was when it really hit me. But the walk was a blessing,
I don't think there would be a much better way to bond with a friend like Lamel than to walk four hours together talking now and again and enjoying
the fellowship. He wants to know the next time we'd like to go the market, we are not so sure if we are ready again!
culture study until later because it really has not been fully developed until now. The culture study enables the missionaries to understand
a people group's worldview, how they think and what their beliefs are, etc. This helps them create a platform to build evangelism and church
planting here. Here much planting has been done already, which the means the culture study is to help the current church grow better as well as to
continue evangelism correctly. If you have questions on what I am saying just ask.
The first step is following a bunch of people for three days each to see what their habits are, how they live, what is important to them, etc.
So a few weeks ago was Thomas and this past week it was Lamel, a retired Muslim who lives near our home. He takes regular trips to the markets in the little villages
all around Natitingou to find wild game which he sells for more in Nati, wild game is giant rat, rabbit, huge water lizards (not crocodiles, look
more gila monsters but for water, what's a gila monster, ummm, looks like a big lizard(-:), little forest birds like quails and pheasants of North America.
They usually split them open after they kill them, insides and all, the put sticks to hold them like that and dry them stiff as a board, no your right
not very appetizing. But I have seen pharmacists buy them by the sack load here.
We spent Tues, Wed, and Thursday with him. It was very interesting and even entertaining. The first day I forgot to put my camera battery in
so that ruined the pictures at the Perma village market. We walked around alot and looked for good deals on meats. The second day we got to
see a Muslim naming ceremony. It was so interesting. The child was not involved physically, but it was all so engaging. The men came in slowly,
elderly, middle aged, young men; they all sat together on mats in the middle of a group of house in a rectangle with a platter of corn in the middle
with a bowl in it. You could tell their importance by their long robes or what kind of hat they wore, plain felt, or intricate designs, or even
a type of prayer shawl over their head. Their talked and chatted enjoying the time. Then like a small ember smoking the new fragance of fire coming back to life, a voice
started praying, the another joined, a few more. In a few minutes all the men were silently with the leader in a white rob leading. At the right moments,
all the men would join in a chant, raising their hands in front of their chests palms upturned to Heaven and like an ocean wave they all together
wash their faces, in a gesture of gratitude. Not with a real water, but just symbolically washing themselves with the blessings from on high. The whole
prayer time lasted twenty or twenty five minutes; time really seemed to just flow by. One may not have noticed in an hour or a day passed, you just
seem to float on the rise and fall of the prayers of the group and individuals. As one would prayer the rest would intersperse "Praise Allah". They
all knew there part, and as a great mechanism in one accord moving, their prayers lifted into the wind.
As you can see I was enthralled by their prayers. While they really are still in an very pagan religion with the need to self-attain salvation
and the worship of a prophet, who was a man, and so forth. Their reverence and devotion I greatly respect. The sense of wonder, awe, and fear
their services produce, really are to be envied. I have not often been in an Adventist church where I walked out sensing that I faced the mystery
of an all holy God. Not that this is always neccessary, God is a God of joy too and if everything were a somber occasion, I would not
be inclined to think of God as just as sad as He is holy! Nonetheless, I do not think our greatest fear should be over becoming too joyful in church, but
too irreverent and irrespectful. There is always a balance, and that's life, exciting isn't it.
The rest of the day was visiting people and then eating too much at the ensuing feast for the baby's naming ceremony. But the rice was so good!
Thursday we went to Tigniti (pronounced T-yan-t)a little village 15 km from Nati (remember that, 15 Km). We enjoyed the time there, Manny and I, although
it was sometimes frustrating not know everything that was said in Dittimari, but Lamel gave us the gist of conversations. The day wound down rather
quickly. Lamel bought so much meet that he used up all his cash, I had plenty to get us home, but the taxi guy wanted 500 each instead of the morning's 300 each.
So Lamel suggested we start walking, why not, we'd find someone to take us. We did not. Remember the kilometres now? So we walked. We started at 5 PM
arriving at home at 9PM. We didn't stop either, only once for a few minutes to say hi to a family, but no sitting. It was a good work out, to say the least.
Our cargo was unusual, I carried a hen under one arm, and manny carried a rooster tied to his back pack and a sack of wild game in his hand. Indeed one
older black man and a couple of young white guys walk with chickens was a sight for everyone. One house we past, the people speculated that we had had
car trouble, after passing I related this Lamel, he assured us that there was no problem, as if telling it to the people we passed by.
I have recovered now, but let me tell you Manny and I slept well. Actually on Sabbath morning was when it really hit me. But the walk was a blessing,
I don't think there would be a much better way to bond with a friend like Lamel than to walk four hours together talking now and again and enjoying
the fellowship. He wants to know the next time we'd like to go the market, we are not so sure if we are ready again!
Monday, January 19, 2009
Meet Mooba
Manny and I have been spending some time this past week with a friend of our's, Thomas. He's a carpenter here in our quarter, a twenty something that is a real great guy to be around. He is not demanding and just hangs out. Some people it's hard to know why they want to be friends, for friendship or for possible benefits, as I have mentioned before. We were at his carpentry shop and I noticed something unusual. A little boy was crawling up behind Manny who was sitting on a log beside the carpentry shop. I thought maybe he wanted to frighten Manny, but then I realized that this was not his intention. He couldn't walk. As he came closer I saw his difficulty, he was mentally challenged and evidently physically as well. As we interacted him, it seemed to be cerebral palsy, although really I have no idea. He talked with great labor, and his body just did not move with his mind, you could tell. He could stand by holding onto something. His name is Mooba, but kids seem to call him Moosa. He deeply touched me. He smiled and laughed as Manny drew a stick man playing soccer on a scrap block of wood. I did wonder after; did I really care? I have always felt a deep compassion for challenged children and adults, but I have had more experiences with younger ones. Here in Natitingou this has come to a new level, you could say. Simply because here those mentally challenged are desperately neglected. I wondered if the rate here for mentally handicaps was less, but in actuality it's probably the same as global averages, only thing is that many here do not survive past infancy. And those that do are kept in hiding, just sitting in their homes. There are a couple that wander the streets, one girl with down's syndrome lives here in our quarter. And now there is Mooba too. Mooba is fortunate in some ways, he is able to play outside, he seems to have friends and siblings that care well for him. So what can I do for him? I do not really now. He seemed to enjoy our attention, since we were strangers, but that only lasts for a while. Sometimes I question if I am not just pitying him. Anyone who is not completely hardened in their heart, would at least feel some sympathy, some form of concern for him. So is my compassion for him really that special. I've often thought of my aspirations to help mentally and physically challenged children as well a special mission. A desire from God, and indeed to help them would be godly, but is it really more than just simply pity and feeling sorry. I know God will answer those question for me. But whatever the case, I am so privileged and glad to have met Mooba, and I pray there will opportunities to touch his life for Christ. I hope you have met some Mooba's too, maybe in your church, in your neighbor, or school, not simply those obviously challenged but the undercovered challenged as well, the needy that do not show it! May God lead us all!
Bumblegum Blessings
When I was a child, not too long ago around age 7 or 8, I loved to hang with my cousins (still do of course). On occassion when we were at his house, my sister and I would play a Bubblegum Bible game with our cousin Tim. I am ashamed to say that I cannot remember what the game was exactly I think it was Noah's ark, anyway, I know that after we were finished we collected our reward based on how we did in the game, which was bumblegum balls from the store down the road. I loved the rainbow pack, so many different flavors in one! In the same way, I think God gives us lots of great things, wait I know He does sometimes based on our faithfulness sometimes just because He loves us But sometimes
the blessings are not always big, but even if they are bumblegum pieces
of blessings, one pack can have all sorts of flavors! I think of David when he said
"Taste and see the Jehovah is good; blessed is the man (or woman) that trust
in Him." (Psalms 34:8)
I wanted to share some thoughts and insights, just little drops of ideas here and
there. They sort of pile up and I like to share them with. To me they are blessings
because they are gifts that God gives me to open my eyes to life around me.
Covet?
It has been a very interesting experience here in Benin to deal with poverty. In North
America there is poverty, but it isn't always that visible, and when it shows up, it's
a little easier to ignore. Here it's poverty all around. As a student missionary, my funds
are used to buy food enough for myself, with little to spare, so it's not possible for me to
about handing out bread and such to everybody. But when kids stop by our house, Manny
and I, may share some of our meal or a banana or orange. The other part is that even if I could
help, it's hard to know who and how. But some things more than just giving have come out
of living here in poverty.
In my neighboorhood, the next street over, a friend of my lives, you know him already, Fidard (by
the way he is doing well, committed to church and prayer again, and trying to get out of the
beer making operation he has at his house, praise the Lord!). There's a well near his house and
on it someone painted (on all three sides actually), "Ghetto Boys". When I first read this I was
intrigued. I had never thought of that place as a ghetto. It's that same where I live. But thinking
more on it, it's true, by some standards, much of Nati is ghetto, run-down mud houses, trash everywhere,
stray dogs (I see a dog fight, started by the dogs however, every day almost), and the like. But this
is my home. Not to say that I am so awesome for living in these conditions, but to say how
perspectives change. A missionary friend shared that at a church she visited in a small village the preacher shared
that in Heaven everyone would have tin roofs, even concrete floors! Glorious!? I have thought
often of being poor. I am certainly better off than many, but still some do seem richer. With their
TV's and stereo's, and paded couches, and fancy clothes. But still those poorer than I, what can I
do. I have often felt terrible for having so much. Doing my laundry at Suzy's one day, a church youth
was helping me (he said he enjoys doing laundry, but thought I wouldn't accept the help!), and commented
on how many clothes I had, and that was only 2 thirds of what I have here. Sometimes I just
feel like throwing all my stuff in the streets, here Merry Christmas. It's a confusing thing
to be so privileged, yet you can't do much about it, the best you can do is be a listening ear,
a friend, and light for God.
So I can definitely say I am content. I have what I need, sure there's always something handy that I might
like to have for the home or ministry, but nothing to complain about. But then without realizing it
I find myself saying to myself, hey self look over there those are some pretty nifty shoes. But wait
self I do not need those shoes. Or nice t shirt or nice motor bike, or whatever. I ask to God to help
me because in reality it's that ugly battle against self that causes the coveting. But it has helped to
understand why people want. Especially being not-black and everyone wants what I have, some of
is really out of the ordinary, digital camera, mp3 player, but other stuff is normal, clothes, shoes.
Coveting is evil for sure, but it's not the big ugly monster I have always thought of it as. It's more
like a fog, you don't know when you entered it, but by the time you are in it, you can't see, and
you don't know which was is out. For me I could see the fog early, and have asked God's help
continual, for many their still traveling blind. That's why a Christian life is so wonderful,
you can recgonize fogs, doesn't mean it's easy to get out of, but sure beats blindness.
What counts?
Was hanging out with Thomas the carpenter one evening last week and after he finished
his shower, some girls stopped by and asked to get a friend for them. So I tagged along
while he went to get a friend of his. I asked him why the girls did not just go to the guys
house. He responded that his friend was married and one of those girls was his girlfriend
and he did not want spouse and girlfriend to get acquainted, understandable but real sad at
the same time. Later as he was walking me back to my residence. I asked if this was
common, yes it is. He told me that marriage was not what counted, that there were forced marriages
all the time, so it was not marriage that mattered. What does count then? I countered. The answer
beat around the bush, but came to the same conclusion, it's not the marriage. In
a culture missionaries are told to watch out for unanswered questions, this one especially
for youth seems to be a big one, what does count, love, marriage, physical intimacy, a
united bond in Christ? I can answer it, but the goal is to have the people answer it themselves
on a Biblical basis.
Centimetres in Kilometres
If you need to, you can say "Inches in Miles", but I am Canadian, so I try to stick to the culture.
To my right there is a highschool student, to my left a middle aged man, behind me are a couple of other
mid-twenties men, in front of me is a small window, and a lady at a desk, crunching numbers and taking
money. This place is one of the most used places in all Natitingou, on due day it's the busiest too. It's the
electric company's head office, where everyone pays there electric bills. It's the only office, so the whole city pays here.
And if you choose a bad time or day, you'll be in line for hours. Today I am okay, there are maybe
two people in front of me. I get through quickly. But as I stand and I wait I sense an strangeness. This thought
that these people just centimetres from me, waiting to pay the same sort of bills, how did they get here?
I do not know there names, their age, their birthplace, anything. One is a teacher, he told someone else in line,
another a police officer by his uniform. I stand close physically but by knowledge we are like kilometres part.
It's like between the small place is eternity of time. That we should cross paths here. It's the same thing
I think about every time I am on a airplane, bus, or some public transport. This person I may see
again, yet in the eons of time God saw this meeting, for ten mintues, an hour, or half a day (Toronto-Paris, ugh a little long)
we are here. The biggest part is just to let God fill the gap. To ask Him the next step, perhaps a smile for their day,
or a long chat on creation or home problems. Maybe a prayer (if possible always great). All in all
we are not just one lost in a sea of faces (Kutless), but each person someone that matters to God.
Desmond Tutu said in the book "Wisdom" by Andrew Zuckerman, "Too frequently we think we have to do spectacular things.
Yet if we remember the sea is actually made up of drops of water and each drop countes, each one oc us can do our little bit where we are...
Happiness is a shared thing." In God's plan it's too true, we each do our part, each drop counts, whether it's a drop
a lot of people notice or one that silently fills the sea, Heaven will tell.
The Idea Pancake Theory
I am a thinker, sometimes to my detriment. Not really always a smart thinker.
Meaning I have not come up with the newest theory of quantum mechancis in biomolecular
cellular tissue (sounds cool even though I made it up), but I have been known to have
a few good ideers. So here's a little idea on ideas. There are so many ideas and theories on
how to make bread to what makes a good leader to how prophecy should be interpreted.
In every case there is usually a standard to base it upon, the food board, when the good
leader goes bad, the Bible. But still some bad ideas get out there and cause havoc. The main
problem is people soak up ideas and forget to think about them. But another cause
of these bad ideas getting out is that their creators forget to think as well, well they think but
maybe a little sideways. So I present the idea pancake theory. One of Manny and I's favorite breakfast
is pancakes with bananas and peanut butter and left over condensed sweetened milk from making
banana bread (if there is any, although it's 46% sugar so we try to take it easy on the stuff). We make
them from corn flour, or sorgum flour (a grain that is like red and white little balls), or a combinations
if milk and eggs are available that too, or else just water. Manny has the art down pat. He can make some
grilled to perfection. But if you were to be novice and you started cooking a pancake, it would be hard
to know when to flip, you cannot see the side that cooking. But you watch for bubbles and then
decide it's time, sometimes it falls apart, sometimes it works. Then you still have to wait
for the pancake to finish on the other side, this is even harder, you can only see a cooked side
not indicators of cooking on the other side. So if black smoke starts pouring out you've waited too
long, but if not you may get it right when it just starts smoking a little. If we treated ideas like
pancakes it may help. If you've got an idea cook it first. As a Christian, I put in the frying pan
of prayer and Bible study. You have to trust God as the one side cooks, but He gives answers
and such that show that it's ready to flip. To flip I use the flipper of community, trusted
friends and mentors. As we flip it over, they get a better look at it and let me know what they
think. Now we both put into God's hands. Is it useful for others, is it edifying, does it contradict
the Bible, etc. When we can see that is great the smoke of the Holy Spirit approval comes but, if
it's not worth the time, the black smoke of a bad idea comes out. And the idea burns and is sent to the
garbage, but a good idea is brought out and served to everybody for nutrition, enjoyment, and
joy! I see it important that we let ideas cook on both sides, that they are really well tested. I sure
I hope my idea on ideas cooked, but this is a part of the process, what do you think flippers?
the blessings are not always big, but even if they are bumblegum pieces
of blessings, one pack can have all sorts of flavors! I think of David when he said
"Taste and see the Jehovah is good; blessed is the man (or woman) that trust
in Him." (Psalms 34:8)
I wanted to share some thoughts and insights, just little drops of ideas here and
there. They sort of pile up and I like to share them with. To me they are blessings
because they are gifts that God gives me to open my eyes to life around me.
Covet?
It has been a very interesting experience here in Benin to deal with poverty. In North
America there is poverty, but it isn't always that visible, and when it shows up, it's
a little easier to ignore. Here it's poverty all around. As a student missionary, my funds
are used to buy food enough for myself, with little to spare, so it's not possible for me to
about handing out bread and such to everybody. But when kids stop by our house, Manny
and I, may share some of our meal or a banana or orange. The other part is that even if I could
help, it's hard to know who and how. But some things more than just giving have come out
of living here in poverty.
In my neighboorhood, the next street over, a friend of my lives, you know him already, Fidard (by
the way he is doing well, committed to church and prayer again, and trying to get out of the
beer making operation he has at his house, praise the Lord!). There's a well near his house and
on it someone painted (on all three sides actually), "Ghetto Boys". When I first read this I was
intrigued. I had never thought of that place as a ghetto. It's that same where I live. But thinking
more on it, it's true, by some standards, much of Nati is ghetto, run-down mud houses, trash everywhere,
stray dogs (I see a dog fight, started by the dogs however, every day almost), and the like. But this
is my home. Not to say that I am so awesome for living in these conditions, but to say how
perspectives change. A missionary friend shared that at a church she visited in a small village the preacher shared
that in Heaven everyone would have tin roofs, even concrete floors! Glorious!? I have thought
often of being poor. I am certainly better off than many, but still some do seem richer. With their
TV's and stereo's, and paded couches, and fancy clothes. But still those poorer than I, what can I
do. I have often felt terrible for having so much. Doing my laundry at Suzy's one day, a church youth
was helping me (he said he enjoys doing laundry, but thought I wouldn't accept the help!), and commented
on how many clothes I had, and that was only 2 thirds of what I have here. Sometimes I just
feel like throwing all my stuff in the streets, here Merry Christmas. It's a confusing thing
to be so privileged, yet you can't do much about it, the best you can do is be a listening ear,
a friend, and light for God.
So I can definitely say I am content. I have what I need, sure there's always something handy that I might
like to have for the home or ministry, but nothing to complain about. But then without realizing it
I find myself saying to myself, hey self look over there those are some pretty nifty shoes. But wait
self I do not need those shoes. Or nice t shirt or nice motor bike, or whatever. I ask to God to help
me because in reality it's that ugly battle against self that causes the coveting. But it has helped to
understand why people want. Especially being not-black and everyone wants what I have, some of
is really out of the ordinary, digital camera, mp3 player, but other stuff is normal, clothes, shoes.
Coveting is evil for sure, but it's not the big ugly monster I have always thought of it as. It's more
like a fog, you don't know when you entered it, but by the time you are in it, you can't see, and
you don't know which was is out. For me I could see the fog early, and have asked God's help
continual, for many their still traveling blind. That's why a Christian life is so wonderful,
you can recgonize fogs, doesn't mean it's easy to get out of, but sure beats blindness.
What counts?
Was hanging out with Thomas the carpenter one evening last week and after he finished
his shower, some girls stopped by and asked to get a friend for them. So I tagged along
while he went to get a friend of his. I asked him why the girls did not just go to the guys
house. He responded that his friend was married and one of those girls was his girlfriend
and he did not want spouse and girlfriend to get acquainted, understandable but real sad at
the same time. Later as he was walking me back to my residence. I asked if this was
common, yes it is. He told me that marriage was not what counted, that there were forced marriages
all the time, so it was not marriage that mattered. What does count then? I countered. The answer
beat around the bush, but came to the same conclusion, it's not the marriage. In
a culture missionaries are told to watch out for unanswered questions, this one especially
for youth seems to be a big one, what does count, love, marriage, physical intimacy, a
united bond in Christ? I can answer it, but the goal is to have the people answer it themselves
on a Biblical basis.
Centimetres in Kilometres
If you need to, you can say "Inches in Miles", but I am Canadian, so I try to stick to the culture.
To my right there is a highschool student, to my left a middle aged man, behind me are a couple of other
mid-twenties men, in front of me is a small window, and a lady at a desk, crunching numbers and taking
money. This place is one of the most used places in all Natitingou, on due day it's the busiest too. It's the
electric company's head office, where everyone pays there electric bills. It's the only office, so the whole city pays here.
And if you choose a bad time or day, you'll be in line for hours. Today I am okay, there are maybe
two people in front of me. I get through quickly. But as I stand and I wait I sense an strangeness. This thought
that these people just centimetres from me, waiting to pay the same sort of bills, how did they get here?
I do not know there names, their age, their birthplace, anything. One is a teacher, he told someone else in line,
another a police officer by his uniform. I stand close physically but by knowledge we are like kilometres part.
It's like between the small place is eternity of time. That we should cross paths here. It's the same thing
I think about every time I am on a airplane, bus, or some public transport. This person I may see
again, yet in the eons of time God saw this meeting, for ten mintues, an hour, or half a day (Toronto-Paris, ugh a little long)
we are here. The biggest part is just to let God fill the gap. To ask Him the next step, perhaps a smile for their day,
or a long chat on creation or home problems. Maybe a prayer (if possible always great). All in all
we are not just one lost in a sea of faces (Kutless), but each person someone that matters to God.
Desmond Tutu said in the book "Wisdom" by Andrew Zuckerman, "Too frequently we think we have to do spectacular things.
Yet if we remember the sea is actually made up of drops of water and each drop countes, each one oc us can do our little bit where we are...
Happiness is a shared thing." In God's plan it's too true, we each do our part, each drop counts, whether it's a drop
a lot of people notice or one that silently fills the sea, Heaven will tell.
The Idea Pancake Theory
I am a thinker, sometimes to my detriment. Not really always a smart thinker.
Meaning I have not come up with the newest theory of quantum mechancis in biomolecular
cellular tissue (sounds cool even though I made it up), but I have been known to have
a few good ideers. So here's a little idea on ideas. There are so many ideas and theories on
how to make bread to what makes a good leader to how prophecy should be interpreted.
In every case there is usually a standard to base it upon, the food board, when the good
leader goes bad, the Bible. But still some bad ideas get out there and cause havoc. The main
problem is people soak up ideas and forget to think about them. But another cause
of these bad ideas getting out is that their creators forget to think as well, well they think but
maybe a little sideways. So I present the idea pancake theory. One of Manny and I's favorite breakfast
is pancakes with bananas and peanut butter and left over condensed sweetened milk from making
banana bread (if there is any, although it's 46% sugar so we try to take it easy on the stuff). We make
them from corn flour, or sorgum flour (a grain that is like red and white little balls), or a combinations
if milk and eggs are available that too, or else just water. Manny has the art down pat. He can make some
grilled to perfection. But if you were to be novice and you started cooking a pancake, it would be hard
to know when to flip, you cannot see the side that cooking. But you watch for bubbles and then
decide it's time, sometimes it falls apart, sometimes it works. Then you still have to wait
for the pancake to finish on the other side, this is even harder, you can only see a cooked side
not indicators of cooking on the other side. So if black smoke starts pouring out you've waited too
long, but if not you may get it right when it just starts smoking a little. If we treated ideas like
pancakes it may help. If you've got an idea cook it first. As a Christian, I put in the frying pan
of prayer and Bible study. You have to trust God as the one side cooks, but He gives answers
and such that show that it's ready to flip. To flip I use the flipper of community, trusted
friends and mentors. As we flip it over, they get a better look at it and let me know what they
think. Now we both put into God's hands. Is it useful for others, is it edifying, does it contradict
the Bible, etc. When we can see that is great the smoke of the Holy Spirit approval comes but, if
it's not worth the time, the black smoke of a bad idea comes out. And the idea burns and is sent to the
garbage, but a good idea is brought out and served to everybody for nutrition, enjoyment, and
joy! I see it important that we let ideas cook on both sides, that they are really well tested. I sure
I hope my idea on ideas cooked, but this is a part of the process, what do you think flippers?
Christmas is around the corner, well it was and more
Thinking about the last time I put up an entry, and realized it was before Christmas. So these nextfew stories and such may be a bit jumbled, just trying to catch up. Belatted Merry Christmas, and Happy New Year.Christmas was nice, certainly was interesting. North America and Europe, and maybe Australiakinda of their own special Christmas, lights, trees, snow in some places, but everywhere else inthe world Christmas is left up to interpretation it seems. Yet slowly in developing countries Christmasis becoming the lights, trees, and presents, sad in a way. I realize as I write this I am starting to talkabout Christmas like it is just some holiday tradition! But what it is supposed to be about is so powerful.I shared a sermon on the 20th, and in it I tried to tell how Jesus' story is more than just the cross. That isthe climax, the victory as He rises from the grave, but He had to be born, grow-up, live, minister, heal,preach, and all that in order for it to be a complete story. The Sabbath school lesson this past quarter, broughtme back to the importance of all aspects of Jesus' reconciliation, and I especially the parts on the birth, andsacrificial system (yeah like half the quarter I know). The Adventist church members here are a little afraidof celebrating Christmas. They have reason, as do others around the world who don't like too much the ideaof the Christmas time, just too one yearly, here it is a big Catholic time (and everyone else too). But themembers feel like they are joining with the other churches, not being distinct from other faiths. While theydo not despise other faiths, we do realize that we are different in our Biblical beliefs, and do not want to comeacross as united under our likenesses. The other side is that when people ask if the church is having a programfor Christmas, and we not say no not really, then people are confused and wonder if we really do believein Jesus' birth. People will always be confused, the seventh-day Sabbath?, the mark of what beast?, The dead are sleeping?But in this case this confusion is not entirely a Biblical misinterpretaion. More cultural, and such. If aroundChristmas is a time for celebrating Jesus birth, would it not be appropriate to do so as well and as well as all year? Tough questions. The same issue comes up for Easter. Jesus died on Passover which is not at the same time astraditional Easter, but again people again wonder if we don't do some commerative service for it. New Year's hasit's stresses too, not really for the church, other than the work to put together the New Year's Eve program. Whichthis year was quite fun and a real blessing. There is another entry about it. The stress, as I was saying, is on my peoplemore, us whites (basically non-blacks here, Manny is Mexican and they still say Yoevoe, Yoevoe). We are seen as having a lot of money, don't blame the perception, but it means that everyone wants to come over to your houseor wants you to give them money, candy, food for fet. It was actually the lead that was the most stressful, I was surethat it would be a nightmare. But on New Year's Day not much happened. Manny and I bought sweet bread to giveto those who stop by, but no one came. I wanted to get out and visit people, but time slipped through me hands. ActuallyI kinda botched the friendship building opportunity by sitting in my house typing and drawing, and then watching part of a movie, and by the time I got out, it was almost time for prayer meeting and I was on supper duty. The chance to really interact was lost. I was disappointed in myself, but God forgives, and I learn (hopefully for the last time!).Oh and Christmas was blessed though. Had prayer meeting on the eve of the 24th since it was Wednesday, and so wehad a get together Christmas day evening at Uli and Toussaint's with a potluck sort of meal, and a small gift exchange.A beautiful time to relax and fellowship. Boxing day is not a thing here. Speaking of boxes, I am reminded of how I recentlyreceived a package from my mom in a box. The contants were great, but I was also excited about the box, somethingto store things in! Amazing how simple things can be great, if we just be creative (I am in no way excusing being a packrat you must be able to use everything, and not just store if I might someday need it kind of thing, well that's my policyanyway, usually (-:) I also went to some of my pathfinders' house for Christmas lunch. They had killed the fatted chicken, andmade some traditional patte, and so we ate well! I brought a bunch of candy over for them, and they were so excited they sang in happiness. And they are between the ages of 15-19! It was amazing to see how a simple thing brought great joy,how Jesus should always be the same to me, except for the cavities, and sugar highs.
You may be wondering about my spiritual life here. It's a little hard to explain all of it. But I will give a good overview.I say it's hard just because some of it is personal, and spirituality is a huge topic. So I am mostly going to tell aboutthe warfare around here. When I first got here I thought there was a problem, a good problem, but still something wrong.I just didn't have the Satanic attacks and Voodoo encounters I thought I would. I am not complaining. I just thoughtevery day I'd be dealing with some supernatural attack on me or on others. Now my perspective has changed! I have cometo see that I was at the point where one I was worrying when an attack would come, and two that if I was not being attackedthen I really wasn't doing something for Christ! That's definitely messed up, in essence I was looking to Satan, to confirm whetherI was doing work for Christ. In reality Christ giveth and he taketh away. So things may be going well and that can mean Godis blessing and protecting, and when I am under attack, that just means Christ has allowed Satan some ground, and knowsI can stay faithful if I trust God! I've also come to see that Satan was using my wrong mind set to overlook alot. He usesso much than supernatural encounters like extreme sickness, dreams, physical torment, etc. There is all too familiardiscouragement, sorrow, annoyances (like all the noise around here), cultural differences, temptation, and so much more.So to say that we aren't under attack everyday just because we don't have supernatural enounters is actually a deception of Satan,I believe. God sent me a really great book called, Spiritual Warfare, by Timothy Warner, which explained a lot of this to me. About the Voodoo, another book, that I didn't finish yet about reaching animists, helped me realize that it's not always that visible. But in times of crisis, marriage, death, sickness, etc. it comes up in ritual and such. This time of year it is evident becausemany of our young church members have the hardest time to get out doing the traditional initiation ceremonies, so far God hasprotected and no one has had to do them, or been hurt for not doing them. There are the little signs like the fetish altar in the middleof the market, the guys at the market who will tell you through claryvoince who stole from you, and the little scare-crow like thingsin fields to curse anyone who steals from it. In the end I see trust in God as our stronghold. If I am attacked supernaturally or if I amGod knows if I can handle it. We have a great team here that will each of us through attacks too! Let's all keep on the straight and narrowno matter what!
You may be wondering about my spiritual life here. It's a little hard to explain all of it. But I will give a good overview.I say it's hard just because some of it is personal, and spirituality is a huge topic. So I am mostly going to tell aboutthe warfare around here. When I first got here I thought there was a problem, a good problem, but still something wrong.I just didn't have the Satanic attacks and Voodoo encounters I thought I would. I am not complaining. I just thoughtevery day I'd be dealing with some supernatural attack on me or on others. Now my perspective has changed! I have cometo see that I was at the point where one I was worrying when an attack would come, and two that if I was not being attackedthen I really wasn't doing something for Christ! That's definitely messed up, in essence I was looking to Satan, to confirm whetherI was doing work for Christ. In reality Christ giveth and he taketh away. So things may be going well and that can mean Godis blessing and protecting, and when I am under attack, that just means Christ has allowed Satan some ground, and knowsI can stay faithful if I trust God! I've also come to see that Satan was using my wrong mind set to overlook alot. He usesso much than supernatural encounters like extreme sickness, dreams, physical torment, etc. There is all too familiardiscouragement, sorrow, annoyances (like all the noise around here), cultural differences, temptation, and so much more.So to say that we aren't under attack everyday just because we don't have supernatural enounters is actually a deception of Satan,I believe. God sent me a really great book called, Spiritual Warfare, by Timothy Warner, which explained a lot of this to me. About the Voodoo, another book, that I didn't finish yet about reaching animists, helped me realize that it's not always that visible. But in times of crisis, marriage, death, sickness, etc. it comes up in ritual and such. This time of year it is evident becausemany of our young church members have the hardest time to get out doing the traditional initiation ceremonies, so far God hasprotected and no one has had to do them, or been hurt for not doing them. There are the little signs like the fetish altar in the middleof the market, the guys at the market who will tell you through claryvoince who stole from you, and the little scare-crow like thingsin fields to curse anyone who steals from it. In the end I see trust in God as our stronghold. If I am attacked supernaturally or if I amGod knows if I can handle it. We have a great team here that will each of us through attacks too! Let's all keep on the straight and narrowno matter what!
Live from Natitingou
Hello Jungle friends, live from Natitingou, it's New Year's Eve! On tonight's program we have a baby being "kidnapped", lots of comedy and singing, staying upuntil 3 AM, food for everyone, and whole crowd of strangers, so let's get started!First the night starts off with the arrival of Eric, Manny, Suzy, and the whole crew of children from the quarter at the church. Suzy brought a whole bunchof people from the group started in one of the nearby villages to celebrate with the church, a great way for them to connect to and see other believers. They are still very young in the faith! As everyone waits, Eric takes up a friendly and somewhat dangerous game of redlight, greenlight, with the children usinga flashlight (there is an outside light on the church). In the midst of the games, Suzy calls everyone for some questioning, seems a baby has disappearedwith a woman of no fixed identity. The children did see her, but no one recognized her. Even the regular church members. A kidnapping, maybe, a way Satanwanted to ruin the evening, definitely. So the group prays. And the hunt continues, finally someone remembers she saw a church member leave to get food. Itmay be her. And indeed it is her, she wanted to help the mother so she took the baby to sleep on her back (the mother had let her actually, oops). So thisiss followed by great clapping and rejoicing among all. In a little the food is ready but concerns for quantities arouse, so Eric and church deacon Basileare off to find 2000 francs of corn cakes, securing the cakes they return and begin the joyous feast. Turns out there is more than enough, another loaves andfishes if you ask me. Following the filling of belly's the adults separate for their sermon and prayer and the children run somewhat chaotically to therelocale for their program. After songs, there is verse memorization (james 4.7) and other activities, the topic is Satan's snares in the occult, and the childrenwrap what they can of their brains around the ideas presented. Then the big program, MC'd by Eric, well more like tied together like a sinking ship by Eric.He has a great program but the participants add skits, subtract songs, and are rarely ready on time. But no worries, everyone is enjoying themselves immensefully.The best skit is, in my books, given by the children. It's called jumping rice. In French sautee sounds like jump, and without sounds the same as 100. Thusthe skit is that a man asks his servant to make sauteed rice for his wife without pepper. The servant makes the rice jumps over it several times and adds 1,2,3... 100peppers! And this is obviously disasterous, including the firing of the servant, and the near death of the wife! There were songs and even some traditional dances(well prepared ahead of time to be sure they had no pagan conatations). The program closes at 1:30AM, with remaining stragglers holding onto their eyelids andready for bed. But it was enjoyed by all! The best part was the visit of Fidard, who Eric had not seen in a while until the day before. He came with most of the children in tow, a real blessing to have them be there! Well that's all for today's broadcast, catch the story next, we have no idea what it will be!
The Leftover Church
Perspective is a dangerous aspect of life, and yet at times harmless. It can simply change an idea or a mind, or it can alter a Biblical truth and thus causeproblems. Well these last few weeks have been filled with perspectives on the end times. Not because of circomstances around us, but mostly because it justseemed to have come up in church many times. It started with the Pastor's coming on the 20th of December. He came to visit as usual, but this timethere was another special reason, baptism. As a student missionary I am just a link in the chain, as I was told in training, at some projects, student missionariesmay never get to see any baptims or even any converts, but the bigger picture is what's important. Thus it was a special privilege to part of a baptism here,that of Marc and Patient. Marc is the young man I told you about before who has a rough situation at home, his dad being a feticheur, and his siblingsall going to the Catholic Church. His father also has a few wives, so it makes for a complex household situation. But he took the plunge, the former evangelistfrom this area, Boni, went and talked with Marc's father, and he approved praise God! Both of them are in pathfinders, and I am glad to have the privilegeto help them continue to grow the rest of the time I am here, by God's grace. The sermon the Pastor shared was on the remnant church and how the Adventist churchcan be compared to a remnant of the remnant. His starting illustration was that of a meal, a very satisfieing one, that when completed, there was still somefood left over. He said that this remnant or rest of the meal is always very precious and is carefully stored to eat later. From my North American perspective,it is a misplaced illustration, leftovers to me, are something you try to get rid of (unless of course it's grandma's cooking), or at least, when you goto someone's house to eat, the phrase, hey don't leave me with leftovers. To me it almost sounded like God was saying, oh man I've got leftovers for a church,who will finish it for me? But here, left overs are kept, for next time if possible, or shared with neighbors. So culturally his illustration worked. But inthe end I still think it wasn't the best placed illustration. It's not like anyone here in Africa, really wants left overs either, how do they store it withouta fridge? But at least the illustration won't mess up anybodies Bible knowledge! The next Sabbath was the start of week of prayer, who's topic is Signs of Hope, talking about signs of the end. I signed up to do the children'sprogram every morning for an hour. We have been having a wonderful time sharing and singing and learning. Uli preached on the first Sabbath and it was verymoving, telling how God has always wanted to be close to man, but there is this sin barrier. She went from the creation to the children of Israel's sanctuaryto Jesus birth to the second coming and the new earth, and if she wanted to she may have clear through to the maps (borrowed from Mark Lowry). The lineageis wonderful, this story of God's relentless passion to be near to man, in a temple, in a pillar of cloud and fire, through prophets, through Judges,through Jesus Himself, through disciples, through revelation, and finally the ultimate of Heaven! Revelation 21:3 really spoke to me, all reunited with God, the tabernaclewith men. Uli shared again, Monday night an article from Jon Paulien a professor at Loma Linda. He talked about when the signs grow old, like the starsfalling and the great Lisbon quake. He told of the difference between signs of the age and signs of the end of times. Those signs of nature pointed our earlyadventist brothers and sisters to search the scriptures and show the time they were in. Just like the signs Jesus gave his disciples to know whenJerusalem would be destroyed. It's hard to explain without reading what he said (you should find it in the Adventist Review, prayer week edition for 2008). But his conclusion was important, we need not be distracted by signs, instead they should drive to know God better, for that's eternal life (John 17:3). The longerwe wait for His coming the more desparately we want to see Him, and the more wonderful He becomes in our eyes!
It's Been a While, Like Yeah!!!
Hi friends,
Yes it's been a while. Due circumstances beyond my control, but not God's, I missed several weeks. I hope the next few entries make up for lost reading and time! Happy Martin Luther King Jr. Day!
From Eric
Yes it's been a while. Due circumstances beyond my control, but not God's, I missed several weeks. I hope the next few entries make up for lost reading and time! Happy Martin Luther King Jr. Day!
From Eric
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