After many days of new and intense experiences it is good to have a day to rest and to reflect a little bit. We began the day with coffee in Blantyre in a shop that is housed in one of the oldest buildings in the city. Originally built by the English, and now home to a coffee shop owned by an Italian family–there was much that felt familiar, from the European architecture to the cappachino and lattes on the menu. Sipping coffee, eating cake, talking with Kara, Janet and Lanecia, it felt like a little bit of home.
However, for Kara and Jeff, in their life here as missionaries and as friends there is not much time to rest. In the midst of providing a much needed respite for me, they were making sure their neighbor and dear friend got to the hospital (by taking her), checking in with her husband throughout the day (on the phone Jeff had lent), visiting and praying with her in the hospital and bringing her home. Providing friendship and support to her husband and baby daughter throughout the day.
Meanwhile, making sure I had a chance to find souvenirs for my children, a time to nap and to read, and to make a delicious dinner for eight (thanks, Jeff!)
And then there are the regular tasks of their life of ministry with meetings to attend, phone calls to make, administrative work to do, and the general unending busy-ness of the local pastor.
I don’t know how they do it, but I am thankful that they do.
Living a life where death is so present as to be palpable, they, like the dear friends and mentors who love and also care for them, live lives that brim with joy, purpose and lots and lots of love.
Pictures taken and shared by Heather Harriss
The old hymn sings, ” There is a place of quiet rest near to the heart of God.” In the warm heart of Africa you find rest and, no doubt about it, you are near to the heart of God. Amen!
Heather, thanks for sharing a view of Malawi I’ve never seen. It’s so green and colorful! I’m glad you’re getting some rest and refreshment. Hugs all around.