Rev J B Jardine
To assist in the work of spreading the Word of God in Zimbabwe, the Mission employs three catechists: Mr G Nkiwane, Mr S Ncube and Mr K Mpata. These Catechists work in the Mbuma Hospital and in rural clinics seeking to make use of every opportunity that arises to set Christ before sinners. This is no easy task given the natural enmity of the human heart. “The carnal mind is enmity against God: for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can be” (Rom 8:7).
The Catechists’ working day begins with family worship for staff, patients and their family members. Throughout the day the catechist will move among the patients and their families seeking an opportunity to speak to them about the things of God. How encouraging it should be for a patient to have the way to eternal life explained to them, if they know that, because of their illness, they soon will be departing this world. How encouraging indeed to hear of the great Physician of body, mind and soul! What a comfort to a family member burdened with care for their loved one to hear of Christ and His all-sufficient grace!
The catechist will also sit with the dying and their families. Seeking to console them and provide some words of comfort to them. He feels like the friends of Job, that he is a miserable comforter and this moves him to commit them to the care of the Lord – the “Friend that sticketh closer than a brother”.
His work is not limited to the Mbuma clinic, as he will travel out with the Doctor to local clinics and seek in the same way to work among the people there. During their work they come into regular contact with the superstitious beliefs of the local people, which conflict sharply with the fundamental doctrines of biblical Christianity. The work of the catechist is not an easy one; yet they have this promise, “My grace is sufficient for thee: for My strength is made perfect in weakness” (2 Cor 12:9).
The catechist holds regular Bible study classes, and all are invited to attend, including any staff whose duties allow them to. Each day ends as it began, with the catechist holding family worship with staff and patients.
We would commit the work of the catechists to the Church at large. “Finally, brethren, pray for us, that the word of the Lord may have free course, and be glorified, even as it is with you” (2 Th 3:1).