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| Sharon at Chapman's Peak |
This past
week has been amazing. The sights we have visited from the beginning of the
week to the end have been vastly different. There is no denying the beauty and
magnificence of the South African landscape and unique culture; however, in my
short stay, I already see the negative aftermath of apartheid. Although South
Africa has broken the shackles of institutionalized segregation and
discrimination, the country is suffering. Particularly, the community lacks
social cohesion. The poverty stricken townships and unofficial settlements are
in isolation and it is difficult to process when there are areas in the country
where the rich live in luxurious houses by the mountainside overlooking the
beach. Therefore, visiting various townships was hard to say the least.
I am
awestruck by the welcoming we have received by the community. Today, we
attended a Xhosa language church service located in a township called
Gugulethu. The service was unbelievable. Listening to the congregation sing
praises in Xhosa while incorporating intricate harmonies, was an emotional and
spiritual experience for me. The Reverend repeatedly referred to the phrase “go back
to Jerusalem,” which really hit my heart. Throughout my stay in Cape Town, I
hope to always remember why God has sent me to this alluring and beautiful
land, and to bring my burdens to him. I cannot even express how blessed I feel
to be on this trip and although I am sure I will face tough challenges, I will
continue to hold comfort and hope in God’s plan for me.
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