A Journey of Faith and Challenges
Yesterday marked the conclusion of our two-week mission in Kariba, a venture filled with both challenges and divine intervention. The mission, which involved over 200 students presenting lectures on Daniel and Revelation across 12 different sites each evening, was a truly African experience—raw, difficult, and incredibly rewarding.
A Rocky Start
Upon my arrival in Kariba, things were far from smooth. The students, who were supposed to start immediately, had not arrived yet. Transportation issues compounded our problems, with funds falling short to fuel the second bus. We had previously arranged with a bus company that generously offered one bus at their own cost, while the local church was supposed to provide fuel for the second bus. But Kariba, being a community struggling with poverty, couldn’t raise the necessary funds. It felt like every possible obstacle stood in our way. Despite this, a generous individual stepped forward, promising to cover the cost of the bus, and we were finally able to begin—albeit three days late.
When the first bus finally arrived on Tuesday, the twelve speakers were ready to get started. However, the remaining students needed to be transported to their sites, and with only one vehicle available, the local pastor had to spend his entire week ferrying students back and forth. It was chaotic, to say the least.
Unforeseen Obstacles
Just when I thought we could start gaining momentum, more challenges surfaced. The second bus, which was sent with a promise of payment, never received the expected funds. This left us with the dilemma of figuring out how to get the students back to their university in time for the next semester. Thankfully, the bus company graciously offered to transport the students for their return trip, fulfilling their agreement, but they’re now waiting for the local church to pay before they send any buses back.
Then there was the moment that truly tested my patience and resolve. While traveling to one of the lecture sites in Gache-Gache, about 120 km from Kariba, we faced a mechanical issue—the right rear wheel’s brakes jammed just 5 km from our destination. Without tools or resources, and far from help, I had to improvise with a piece of rope just to make it back. It was a long, nerve-wracking drive, but by God’s grace, we made it safely back to Kariba.
For the next three days, our only vehicle was out of commission, waiting for parts to arrive. This left us scrambling for ways to continue the mission.
Divine Intervention Amidst Setbacks
In moments of frustration and doubt, I found myself questioning my role in this mission. Everything felt like a failure. All I could do was pray. But in those moments, God reminded me that this mission was not about me. The students, though facing their own hardships—meager food, poor sleeping conditions—were fully committed to serving the Lord. Their dedication to going door-to-door, offering Bible studies, and inviting people to the evening lectures was humbling. It was a powerful reminder that we are living in the era of the last church—the lukewarm church.
Yet, despite all the challenges, God moved in ways I couldn’t have imagined. By the end of the two weeks, 70 people had been baptized, with another 16 over the weekend. The prison ministry, a cause close to my heart, saw incredible breakthroughs as well. Fifteen inmates were baptized on Sabbath, and we now have an elder who will regularly visit and minister to them. The baptisms took place in an inflatable swimming pool, brought by one of the pastors, since the lake was too dangerous due to hippos and crocodiles. This pool became a symbol of new beginnings for many, used at various locations throughout the mission.
A Thankful Heart
Just when I thought the mission’s challenges were over, I was informed that the students had no transportation back. The funds, which had been promised, were used for a family emergency instead. In a last-minute effort, I managed to arrange for Wynand to cover the fuel costs, which I later repaid. The students are now on their way back home, and if it’s the Lord’s will, they will safely arrive by Tuesday.
Through all of this, I’ve learned a valuable lesson: God doesn’t need me to accomplish His work. He simply calls us to be willing servants. The mission in Kariba may have been difficult, but it was also filled with miracles, breakthroughs, and lives transformed by the gospel. I want to thank everyone who supported us, whether through prayers, donations, or moral support. Your contribution has been invaluable.
I’m also deeply grateful for the Bibles and books, especially “The Great Controversy,” which we distributed widely. Even the prison wardens received copies. I doubt there’s a single person in Kariba now without access to the truth of God’s Word.
Praise the Lord for His unfailing love and faithfulness. This mission has been a testament to His power and grace, and I am grateful for the opportunity to have been a part of it.
May God continue to bless each of you for your role in making this possible.