The Last Lap

Ministry of Home Affairs

In a few days time the new academic semester commences and Elizabeth and I will start on our last lap at Dumisani Theological Institute. The last three years have flown by with almost indecent speed. Our original plan was to stay on until June 2012, but a number of circumstances, including Elizabeth’s injuries, led us to consider adjusting our plans. Then, a few weeks ago, all decisions were taken out of our hands when the Department of Home Affairs instead of renewing my exceptional skills permit gave me an ordinary work permit, valid only for six months. So that’s that! We now have to be back in Scotland by the end of November.

For the first time since entering Christian ministry in 1972 we cannot see the next step ahead. In this, our example, naturally, is Abraham who also ‘went out, not knowing where he was going.’  And Hebrews 11:8-9 tells us he did so ‘by faith’, the essence of which is not a blind leap into the dark, but quiet confidence acquired by past experience of God. As we venture into what is for us, though not at all for God, the unknown, we are assured that he will direct our steps, work all things to our good, and be our guiding, providing and protecting Shepherd. Even though we can be sure of our heavenly Father’s leading, we would value your prayers for us that we might recognise and obey his will.

As every explorer and pioneer has recognized, there is something extremely exciting, if very slightly daunting, about stepping out into unfamiliar territory. Naturally, we speculate what it might mean for us: perhaps a call to a congregation; maybe a teaching post; conceivably work with a missionary society. Or maybe something completely different and utterly unexpected. Certainly the Christian life is never boring.

When the new term commences, Dumisani will, of course, be one tutor down, as Norman Reid retired in June and returned home to Ireland. Both he and Angela will be greatly missed. The three of us who are left will all be carrying an extra teaching load. At B.Th. level, I will pick up Norman’s Systematic Theology lectures, as well as teaching my usual second semester subjects of Church History, a very enjoyable reading course on Calvin’s Institutes, and Liturgics (the study of worship).  I am told I must also take a Basic Ministries Study group for elementary computer studies. Help!  It must be very nice teaching one subject, in a comfortable, well-staffed and well-funded college, but I bet it’s not half so exciting.

Finally, as we see November approaching, can I ask you, as a matter of some urgency, to pray for Dumisani’s Principal, Alistair Wilson, and the board of governors. As I write there is no sign of any full-time replacement for Norman Reid, and no hint of anyone coming to take my place. Threatening though this prospect is, after thirty years strategic ministry, we refuse to believe that Dumisani is approaching the end of the road. So we ask, where are those who will step out with God to fill these vacancies and maintain this strategic ministry for another generation of African students?

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