Perhaps the reason God doesn’t explain everything to us from the beginning, or ask for our co-operation in the assignments He sends us off on, is because He expects more from us than what we think we can give, or than we feel like giving Him. But I am glad that He does. How else would we know that we can accomplish His purpose through us? And how else could we show our gratitude for all He’s done for us, and our willingness to share His blessings? How else would He touch the world and show His love if not through His people?

Being a Christian is sort of like agreeing to work for the CIA or FBI in those movies Gary likes to watch – we are sent on assignments by the Top where we don’t know all the details or all that will be required of us during the mission, but because we believe in the Cause, we are willing to agree to this. When I signed on for the position of Christian I knew some of the history of the organization – that being a Christian means caring, sharing and sacrificing. I also know the stories of the early church: how they shared everything and cared for one another and I grew up on mission stories of people who gave their lives and were sent by God to do big things and go very difficult places. I didn’t sign up uninformed or unaware.

Well, my latest assignment has been of this sort. And I am asking now for help in it! Our sister in Christ, Lindy, and her family have been going through a very tough time. The latest of which is that she and her daughter, little Melissa, who is seven, have been diagnosed with MDR (multi-drug resistant) TB. They have both been transferred to Sizwe hospital for treatment which could last for months. This is a good thing as they are together and they are receiving good treatment. But it has huge implications on her family. Michelle and Matthew are left without a mom and a home and no-one to provide for them.  Thank the Lord Lindy’s Mom, Lizzy, is able to step in and become their caregiver. But they still need a lot and this is where I am asking for you to step in and help a family who desperately needs our help and love.

I have made a list of some of the things I think will help their lives run smoothly and pleasantly while their mom is away. Please think and pray about it and get involved in whatever way you feel you can…

1.       Any contribution to their Accomodation – we have found a room for them for R1300 a month.

2.       A double bunk bed and a cupboard to keep food and clothes in.

3.       Gas for cooking – about R50 a month, or a two plate electrical stove.

4.       Groceries  –  I am going to apply for meals on wheels when possible, but they will need more than that, which I would rather buy than give cash for.

5.       Air time – It is important for Lindy to keep in touch with her kids a few times a week.

6.       Transport to and from school is a big thing, and quite complicated and expensive, but I think that bicycles would solve that as well as giving them a bit of freedom to go to Pathfinder activities etc. I will make sure they go together and that they take a safe route. Therefore, two bicycles, two puncture kits and a pump. Alternatively R16 per day for taxi fare. (the busses don’t run quite where we need them to)

7.       Money for the wishy-washy just down the road. About R30 a week.

8.       Taxi fare or a lift to Sizwe hospital to keep the family in touch on weekends. About R36 per person a visit. (the kids aren't that keen to go every week, but her mom may be.)

9.       Every now and then the kids need stuff for school – new shoes for Michelle, fun day, crochet extra murals or an engineering book are what we’ve encountered so far. About R100 a month, excluding the shoes.

It’s a big thing, but if we all do a bit, than it’s not so big, and Lindy, Lizzy and their family can feel  that God does care and provide despite what they are going through.

In order to retain their dignity and in order to not have people doubling up I would be willing to pass on any donations, but if you are happy to help and speak to Lizzy (Lindy's mom) directly they will also then know that the people in their church family care and are not judging them in their difficult time, but rather are supporting and helping and encouraging them through it. If possible it would help a lot if you could commit to helping in the area of your choice until the end of the year at least. We don’t know how long this could take and if it’s shorter, praise the Lord!

I would love for there to be a job Lindy could do while at Sizwe – knit for someone, type etc, but I am not organised enough yet to sort that out. However if anyone could think of anything, it would help her greatly to have some cash of her own to contribute to her needs.

Feel free to help in any way you can…

Thanks, Boni

Here are my contact details:

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084-651-7709