Samkele camp 2006

The Samkele camp this year was truly one to be remembered. Thanks to Stambolie assistance of an extra truck load to camp, we actually started according to the timetable - a first ever I am sure - and this proved to be maintained throughout the weekend thanks to the very comptetant camp master Prince Tino Chipato.

The games and activities were headed up by Gift Gana and Simba Manyureni who had dipped into about four different books beforehand and produced an amazing variety, such as the eating competition, pre-scripted skits, pip-pop, killer, the mad race and many more, including the usual chair ball, volleyball and treasure hunt. The highlight for all was the eating competition in which Khulisani Sibindi whitewashed the field with his mind-boggling display of non-chew machine-gun consumption. The treasure hunt this year was a further highlight, which ended in much confusion as the 'hunters' beat the 'hiders' to the finishing post which was at the top of the hill. The prize was meant to be the spectacular view, but this was obviously missed by the first group who were somewhat insulted at the thought that it was the empty juice carton they had found at the top. Although 20 minutes ahead to the finish, they ended up with last place as they had left some of the clues with Lance back in the camp. Well done whoever quelled the imminent riot!

The four talks (Gift, Blessing, Lance, and John Stuart) presented an overview of the Bible from Genesis to Revelation, which proved a challenging yet highly rewarding task for both presenters and listeners. The faithfulness and sovereignty of God became clearly evident as we moved from book to book following themes, chronologies and genealogies, tying the knots between familiar stories and characters.

Overall, we the staff and committee were very pleased with the way camp went, and the excellent foundation it has given us for the work this year.

Two types of faith

It is observed that amongst the various Christian student groups within Zimbabwe, there appear to be two fundamental viewpoints on what faith looks like. Both perspectives would turn to Heb 11:1 as saying that "faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen", however they apply this in different ways.

The first group is a type of "Power faith" group. If I am God's child, surely He would want the best for me? Is it God's will for me to be sick or in poverty? No! I will believe and receive - you can doubt and do without! They struggle with the perceived poverty mentality of the second group, accusing them of being stuck in their theology and head knowlege and not stepping out in faith by putting into practice what they have heard. Yes, faith is a gift from God, but we have an onus to exercise our faith in order to live victoriously and reclaim what is really ours. Faith is all about taking God at His word and stepping out boldly in belief that He will be true to His Word in doing whatever we ask in His name.

The second group is a type of "Foundation faith" group. Faith is all about trusting in the character of God, as revealed in the scriptures. God has in the past shown Himself faithful to perform whatever He has promised and He is able to do anything - even to complete the work of redemption and sanctification that He has begun in us. They struggle with the first group in that the first group presumes to know what God's will is for here and now in a specific situation. How do you know that God is not more glorified by my suffering than by my healing? Why do you ask God for a special revelation into a specific situation when He has already given us a mind to reason with God-given wisdom? The faith of the second group is largely the plodding type of faith which weathers the storms.

What do you think? Do you align with either of these groups? Does this misrepresent your perception?

Surely there is only one type of faith - God's Kingdom is not divided? If so, which one is right, or is there supposed to be a balance?

Australian Bush Dance

Once again the annual Australian Bush Dance proved to be a most memorable occasion. The Stambolies bravely opened up their home again to being invaded by about 50 to 60 students, all willing to be part of a raucous and exhausting event.

Shumbeyi (committee) did an excellent job of organising the event and this year raised a considerable amount in burger and waffle sales to supplement camp fees. Well done Shumbeyi and her team (many of whom were soon accosted by Estelle for cricket on the lawn).