Answering Africa's Call
By Kei Sullivan
I first heard Africa’s call way back in college and having finally got my ducks in a row and gone, I am happy to report Kenya did not disappoint. My brother Tim will testify I spent the entire two weeks rhapsodizing over the untouched beauty of the countryside and the charm of her people.
I promise not to lose control and commence babbling but I must tell you, I never really saw the stars until Africa … glittering and alive and close enough to reach out and touch.
But now a confession: Tim and I have shared many twists and turns in our spiritual journeys ever since 1978 when he came all the way to Corpus Christi, Texas, to bring me the gospel of salvation. My thankfulness for his life, his friendship, his loving family, and above all his commitment to truth knows no bounds. However … the notion of going all the way to Africa to sit in class gave me pause. I couldn’t help but think of the lions and zebras I could be seeing instead.
Thank God I ignored my misgivings, packed too much, and went. For truly, sitting amongst the other students and hearing the truth taught with simplicity and boldness was as much a part of the thrill of Africa as the people, the stars, the elephants and everything else.
Hebrews 12:11-12 tells us that, “Now no chastening for the present seemeth to be joyous, but grievous: nevertheless afterward it yieldeth the peaceable fruit of righteousness unto them which are exercised thereby. Wherefore lift up the hands which hang down, and the feeble knee…”
I can’t tell you how deeply I was chastened by Tim’s teachings on the apostle Peter. It’s way too easy for me to look back over the years and identify with Peter’s folly and anguish. But that part about being diligent to be found of him in peace, without spot, and blameless (2 Peter 3:14 )… that’s been another story. Now having taken Tim’s class "If Ye Do These Things, Ye Shall Never Fall," I don’t dare say it ‘changed my life’. But I do dare say that after hearing the scriptures explained line by line, I feel for the first time like I have a fighting chance in the lofty pursuit of being found faithful. The hands and feeble knees are definitely lifted.
It’s sad and more than a little telling that I had to go all the way to Africa to hear these things. But I would encourage any of you who desire more confidence … more certainty … in their ability to fight the good fight of faith … to do what it takes to sit through this class. Even if it means going to Africa!
And by the way, don’t assume that reading his books, The Principles of the Doctrine of Christ, and If Ye Do These Things Ye Shall Never Fall, is an adequate substitute. Although both are excellent study aids, I have to say that Tim’s teachings so brought these truths to life that it was like hearing them for the very first time.
(Click HERE to return to reading Tim's Blog)
Your comments are welcome! Click here to write an email to Kei.
© Workers Together With Him, Inc.