Without the cold
weather, the lights, and the commercials Advent feels different in Cameroon
than in the States. Cameroonians who work with the Cameroon Baptist
Convention mark the season by having a song and dance competition each morning
the week before Christmas. I thought the songs and dances on the last day
were the best, which also happened to be the last morning I was in Cameroon.
I was able to capture one of the songs on video. It is from South
Africa and the words translate to "He Walked With Us".
I reflected
on those words and my experiences in Cameroon during the seven hour car trip
from Bamenda to Douala. I thought about what those words, "He Walked
With Us" mean to Cameroonians who walk so many places.
I pondered why
in my list of Cameroonian contacts the names "Emmanuel" and
"Emmanuella" meaning "God with us" are the most prevalent.
I recalled the conversations I had with many Cameroonians during the past
two weeks; many filled with challenges such as unexpected deaths, necessary
surgeries, lack of job prospects, and few educational opportunities, but also
hope. As one of friend said after our conversation about her current
financial hardship, "I know God will provide. He hasn't failed us
yet." And I remembered the words I shared earlier in the morning when
I said goodbye to my colleagues after hearing the song. Now I don't
recall exactly what I said but I remember thanking them for sharing their joy
with me and thanking them for the work they are doing for their country.
That I know the obstacles and challenges are many many, but what they are
doing is making a difference and improving the health of many people.
Advent is different
in Cameroon than in the States, but the message is the same, Jesus walked and
walks with us. In the midst of our challenges and providing hope.
May the God of hope go with
us everyday, filling our lives with love and joy and peace. May the God
of justice speed us on our way, bringing light and hope to every land and race.
Praying let us work for peace; singing share our joy with all; working
for a world that's new; faithful when we hear God's call.
Argentine folk melody
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