At the Midpoint . . .

Wednesday, July 29, was the midpoint of our Volunteers in Mission trip to Zimbabwe. We were at Africa University in the morning and at Fairfield Children's Home in the afternoon.

As we exited the Africa University campus, we stopped to take a team picture at the stone entry way. Across the road was a different kind of stone--carvings and sculptures by a young man who had his wares on display.

I had wondered when I would have the opportunity to look at some stone carvings or sculptures. I had become thoroughly intrigued with this art form during my trip to Zimbabwe in January 2007. I had brought back several items from that visit, including a nativity set and a "Cross and Flame" sculpture. And now here was a stone carver, waiting--so it seemed--just for me!

His items were reasonably priced, at least in my judgment. Among other things, he had a nativity set for sale and several "Good Shepherd" sculptures of different stone. I eventually chose to buy one of polished brown stone. On the bottom of the sculpture was not only the sculptor's name but his e-mail address!

And the sculptor's name? It was Christopher, which means "Christ-bearer," and it was from him that I was blessed with "Good Shepherd." It seemed like a good sign at the midpoint of my trip.

It was a trip that had begun with meeting grace, and now it was blessed by the presence of Christ in an unexpected encounter at the entrance to Africa University.