The Nature Network Group: Lavington Vineyard Church Community; We Proudly Say, Thank You So Much!

Sunday, June 21, 2020

Lavington Vineyard Church Community; We Proudly Say, Thank You So Much!

To the little Church in the Lavington lush and tree-lined environs!

You reached out to us and made our home strongly homogeneous. The kind of love, care and reaching out whose goal is to 'clean the inside' of life. You chose to put in all effort, hands and presence. We are part of the kindred, nation and tongue in the Kingdom of God.

You gave us your time but, it was more than time. You regarded us as human beings who deserved the best. You brought grace amidst our home. It was packaged as food; as detergent; as sanitiser; and your unconditional regard. You sat down and had a meal with us. A pastoral graciousness amidst us! We laughed over the same jokes and your visitation with other guests added to the fact that you shared the dignity with many others. We broke into the food together as it were. Thank you so much!

We are a family and we created a nurturing safe space. It is a safe space for people to lead and live as a family.

We are so proud to have it, for it represents the best family ever in our lives. But imagine if we did not have food?

You chose the three vitals: secure home; food security; and divine dignity. You brought all three and in your presence you re-assured us. You sacrificed so much to bring a large heart to us.

You brought with you all the necessities that make our home a truly nurturing space. Our members some of whom live at other shelters are all content that we are well fed and well cared for. We have our test questions: Do I truly feel at home? Am I doing everything possible to build a healthy family and household? Do guests feel welcome here? And, above all, does God feel comfortable in my home? Our family shares these principles and values, so that we grow together.

Our home has become a foundation for shared sense of purpose. It also provides a springboard for each member to pursue his, her and their own goals. There are things that make families grow closer and bonds grow firmer. Food is a higher priority on that list. Security and safety follow. You made all these possible. We continue to stay up late talking heart-to-heart about what’s on our minds.

Last night, we were all at home and our plates were piled high with food. You know this is Africa! You made Africa so real for us.

Our home is alive, a source of energy and hope, of agency and love. We have life and this adds to the hopeful tranquility of a home of every day. You not only made our home real, our Africa perceptible but you made dignity a reality in our lives.

At the Nature Network, we shall always welcome many and treat all equally. We shall grow and create respectful experiences for many others. We are able to say this because we have friends in you and in Jesus our Lord and Saviour!