African Culture Shock (Not Really)

So, yesterday Given and I were ministering to a woman who lost her husband.  During our visit Given volunteered my services as “pastor” to receive the body into her home.  

Today I met Given there and did what I was recruited to do.  It was a great experience and extremely enlightening in the area of African culture.  I arrived at quarter to four and met with the woman.  She was grateful that I had come.  Promptly at four the body arrived from the funeral home, which is very odd since African time usually involves things running extremely late.  I met the body and pall bearers and led the procession into the home.  Here they take the body into the bedroom and spend the night with the deceased person.  I greeted the family in the name of Jesus and shared from John 14.  Following this I explained the passage and prayed for the family.  This went well and it was very nice to share God’s word with those that I had only met recently.  

We then went outside and noticed that there was a cow tied up outside.  I was a bit worried knowing that many sacrifice animals at funerals in ancestral worship.  However, this cow was being butchered for food for the guests of the funeral.  So, I was able to witness this activity and even asked to join in by my dear friend Given.  Fortunately, I wore my suit and did not get to get my hands dirty.  

It’s strange to me how people in this area have so little and yet culturally they are expected to provide so much for their guests.  The cow cost nearly $1000.00 US and is being prepared for those who attend the funeral.  Much different from the covered dish lunch that we have back home.  I am happy that God gave me the opportunity to share his word this evening and for allowing me to experience the African life and culture.