The Prophet

Stay true in the dark and stay humble in the spotlight. 

 Harold B. Lee

We were told to be prepared.  They said that our little town would be overrun by thousands of visitors. The local bank would run out of money.  Shelves at the market would be bare, and loud drums would keep us up at night.  They told us that "the prophet" was making his annual visit to Kakamega, and that everyone expected miracles.

On the appointed day, the prophet arrived just as they said he would, after dark, with a huge entourage and police escort.   After 'cleansing' the stadium in which his appearances would take place, he was taken to the best hotel in town.  All of the hotel staff were asked to leave so that it too could be 'cleansed' and the prophet's personal staff could move in.  So that hotel, which is normally quite busy, became a no-go zone for staff and residents alike.

Crowds at the crusade

Loved ones checked their family members out of the local hospital in anticipation of miraculous healing, and though there were heavy rains, thousands of men, women, and children slept in the uncovered stadium each night.  They did not want to lose their chance.  Every morning, "ushers" lined the main street between the hotel and the stadium, holding hands as the prophet passed by on his way to the venue.  A full brass band led the way.  The crusade was on.

Ushers making their way to the stadium

The prophet is gone now, and Kakamega has returned to normal.  We've not heard any stories of miraculous healing, but we do know of some who lost their lives in the stadium while they waited.  We've heard of the children who were trampled and the women who were raped.  We know of the people who spent every shilling they had just to see the prophet, hoping and praying for something that never took place.

I have been a bit unsettled since he left, and I'll admit that I've been a little angry at the fact that so much attention was on the man and not the God he purports to serve.  I'm angry that my African family was not directed to Christ.  But then, I think, I can't judge him, because I'm no better.  At home and in my ministry, there are days when my pride takes the focus off Christ.  And that's wrong.  And I'm ashamed.

For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve,

and to give his life as a ransom for many.   Mark 10:45

Lord, make me a true and a humble servant.  Work through me and in me -- for your glory.