“What counts in life is not the mere fact that we have lived. It is what difference we have made to the lives of others that will determine the significance of the life we lead.” Nelson Mandela
This week, on 18 July we will celebrate Nelson Mandela Day, when we commemorate his birth date by spending 67 minutes in service to our fellow citizens. The 67 minutes is symbolic of his 67 years in public service. It was inspired by Mandela himself on his 90th birthday.
In our church, we have many activities that continue far beyond our 67 minutes. We remember the work of the EWA, Link, outreach programs, the loaves of bread, the knitting groups, hospital visits and many more things that go on quietly and effectively.
- Lord, we give you thanks for the members of our church who tirelessly work in the background, feeding the poor, educating the uneducated, providing warm blankets and clothes as well as covering books for Reading is Kwaai.
There are many who quietly visit the shut-ins, shopping for them, reading to them and being companions to them. They offer up their time to do so.
- Bless them as they minister to those trapped in their rooms and sometimes trapped in their minds as well.
There are folk who are willing to be involved in prison ministry. They run services for the prisoners, help them with writing letters if they are illiterate and assisting their loved ones where possible.
- Lord, bless those involved in prison ministry in whatever aspect. We pray that you will keep them safe in their work and guide them in their interactions with the prisoners and wardens.
There are approximately 15 000 street people in Cape Town. There are organisations like the Salvation Army, The Haven hostels, Red Cross and more who care for them, providing shelter and food.
- Lord, May Your blessings fall on all the workers involved as they care for the forgotten people on our streets.