Habakkuk 1:14-17
“You have made men like the fish of the sea… that have no ruler.
The wicked foe pulls all of them up with hooks, he catches them in his net…
Therefore, he (man) sacrifices to his net and burns incense to his net…”
“Why do you steal our smiles? We are laughing, we are having fun together, do not steal our smiles with an open hand.” These words from Sarah are spoken in Lingala to the man beside me on the crowded bus-taxi.
Often, having a Mundeli (whites) on the bus creates an atmosphere of friendly jokes and broken English phrases. More laughter and expressions of surprise burst forth when Paul Peters began to speak Lingala. On this night ride everyone on the bus was enjoying the banter. The darkness was textured by glowing eyes and teeth… until the word ‘money’ was whispered.
Sarah used the situation as a teachable moment. From one Congolese to another her words spoke of how money has the power to steal dignity, joy and peace. Money is often the hook or net of the wicked foe… no sacrifice will every satisfy money, no incense fragrant enough to release it’s clutches. Faith, love and hope are the gifts we hold as God’s children and the gifts we share with each other.
Sarah is another example of a precious jewel in the Congo that loves God, loves people and has given her life to God’s revolution: the ministry of reconciling the world unto Jesus. Faith, love and hope he freely gives to all.
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