AFRICAN PARABLE: MONKEY AND THE FISH
I came across this African parable the other day in my reading. It reminds me so much of the vital part the relationship between our Local Champions (Team Kager) and our Global Partners (Team Indiana) play in the long-term success of the Jubilee Village
The JVP ministry is built on three key “e words”: ENCOURAGE, EQUIP and EMPOWER. Our role is to come behind the people of Kager village and encourage, equip and empower them in their own community transformation…it is not about us being in front of them and doing it for them. We need to be sure we are working on projects that make sense to them, not just us (but we can still ask lots of questions if we don’t understand!).
That is why the relationships are so important…so we can talk openly and truthfully to each other and to avoid mistrust and misunderstanding. And if there is mistrust and misunderstanding, the Project will be short-lived and destined to fail (and there are plenty of well-intended examples of this in the African mission field). I am so thankful for the teams of faithful servants that God has brought together in both Kager and Indianapolis in the 8 short months of the Project.
THE PARABLE OF THE MONKEY AND THE FISH
“A typhoon had temporarily stranded a monkey on an island. In a secure, protected place on the shore, while waiting for the raging waters to recede, he spotted a fish swimming against the current. It seemed obvious to the monkey that the fish was struggling and in need of assistance. Being of kind heart, the monkey resolved to help the fish.
A tree precariously dangled over the spot where the fish seemed to be struggling. At considerable risk to himself, the monkey moved far out on a limb, reached down and snatched the fish from the threatening waters. Immediately scurrying back to the safety of his shelter, he carefully laid the fish on dry ground. For a few moments the fish showed excitement, but soon settled into a peaceful rest.
Joy and satisfaction swelled inside the monkey. He had successfully helped another creature.”
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SAD!