Finally, able to post something. We are having some internet problems where we are staying, but I think I have enough of a connection to post this.
Well we made it obviously, and everything I have heard about the scenery of Cape Town was spot on. This city is absolutely beautiful! It is breathtaking with its mountains and the ocean. It really is gorgeous. Though that beauty is shared equally with the poverty and needs of the people of Cape Town.
This morning we woke up, had breakfast, and then we drove into the city under the guidance and skills of our trusty driver/guide Fransee (FRAN-zee). We spent the morning at the market in downtown Cape Town where we were able to bargain (discuss an acceptable price for items), and I picked up a few nice souvenirs to take home from South Africa. Following the morning, we went and had lunch at the mall, which is just as nice if not nicer than any mall in the US (stores included: Lacoste, Gucci, Polo, and Burberry).
Then after lunch, we drove out into the townships which surround the city headed to our destination of Barcelona, a township. We were going to see a pastor who has planted a church in that township named Julius. Julius and his wife have a unique story... they began with the intention of planting a church, which they did, but also took on another task, that of helping to raise 22 orphan children!
Yes in this place, this couple is providing for every need of 22 children that have come under their care because agreed upon terms, or just the couple's reputation of being loving, caring individuals. Upon entering the township, I was completely taken aback with seeing the poverty and the conditions with which these people lived. I wish I had time to elaborate more, but in short, I felt literally sick and disgusted with myself for all of the things that "I just have to have in my life", when there are people, children, who have to live with such a situtation. Despite their conditions, these children were so appreciative and thankful for what they do have. We were able to spend time with Julius and his wife Irene, and the children. We were able to deliver supplies and clothes to the family, and you should have seen the joy and love shown by Julius and Irene.
In summary of the conversation had with Julius, he said that he was wrestling with the question of why we, people who had no stock in the lives of these people half a word away, would come willingly to deliver these items and spend time with them. Through tears and crackly voice, Julius said the only reason why we would and could do this was being obedient to God's call. That statement brought tears to my eyes, and I dont' know the last time that I felt the love and presence of God so provoundly. See the pics below for an idea of what we experienced today, and I hope to get them on Facebook soon (www.facebook.com/joshuakowens)
Well we made it obviously, and everything I have heard about the scenery of Cape Town was spot on. This city is absolutely beautiful! It is breathtaking with its mountains and the ocean. It really is gorgeous. Though that beauty is shared equally with the poverty and needs of the people of Cape Town.
This morning we woke up, had breakfast, and then we drove into the city under the guidance and skills of our trusty driver/guide Fransee (FRAN-zee). We spent the morning at the market in downtown Cape Town where we were able to bargain (discuss an acceptable price for items), and I picked up a few nice souvenirs to take home from South Africa. Following the morning, we went and had lunch at the mall, which is just as nice if not nicer than any mall in the US (stores included: Lacoste, Gucci, Polo, and Burberry).
Then after lunch, we drove out into the townships which surround the city headed to our destination of Barcelona, a township. We were going to see a pastor who has planted a church in that township named Julius. Julius and his wife have a unique story... they began with the intention of planting a church, which they did, but also took on another task, that of helping to raise 22 orphan children!
Yes in this place, this couple is providing for every need of 22 children that have come under their care because agreed upon terms, or just the couple's reputation of being loving, caring individuals. Upon entering the township, I was completely taken aback with seeing the poverty and the conditions with which these people lived. I wish I had time to elaborate more, but in short, I felt literally sick and disgusted with myself for all of the things that "I just have to have in my life", when there are people, children, who have to live with such a situtation. Despite their conditions, these children were so appreciative and thankful for what they do have. We were able to spend time with Julius and his wife Irene, and the children. We were able to deliver supplies and clothes to the family, and you should have seen the joy and love shown by Julius and Irene.
In summary of the conversation had with Julius, he said that he was wrestling with the question of why we, people who had no stock in the lives of these people half a word away, would come willingly to deliver these items and spend time with them. Through tears and crackly voice, Julius said the only reason why we would and could do this was being obedient to God's call. That statement brought tears to my eyes, and I dont' know the last time that I felt the love and presence of God so provoundly. See the pics below for an idea of what we experienced today, and I hope to get them on Facebook soon (www.facebook.com/joshuakowens)
I'm enjoying reading your posts as you embark on this journey. The Anderson house is sending prayers to you!
ReplyDeleteGreat blog! Keep up the good work. We continue to pray daily for you and the team.
ReplyDelete