By Lemmy Dalano and Mia Smith, SF Kenya
Jackson needed a change. His routine in the town of Mpeketoni was lacking something. So, when farmland opened up around 45 kilometers away from his home, he jumped at the opportunity to work the land and alter the regularity of his life. Never anticipating the impact this decision would have on himself and countless others, Jackson began traveling to and from his new farm on a regular basis. Once he became familiar with the area – and the people – Jackson was struck by the undeniable need for a church.
The community was caught in the trap society had set for them. Smoking and drinking were acceptable, and often expected, practices of both the adults and the youth. Stable family environments were close to nonexistent and Christian influence was minimal in the area. Jackson looked on all of this and knew that this problem needed a solution – and he had it.
Amidst the darkness of the town, there still stood a passion in the hearts of the youth. Sports were less of a hobby and more of a way of life for the boys. Jackson saw this opportunity and went to a Sports Friends training before going back to invest in the community. Upon Jackson’s request a field was cleared and given for him to use in whatever way he saw fit. Necessary supplies to put on a game of volleyball were quickly set in place.
Soon, as his crops began to grow, so did the numbers of those attending the volleyball games. Boys who had previously been hesitant to interact with Jackson and hid behind their cheap drugs were emerging as friendly characters full of questions about Jackson’s motives. So he told them. Intrigued about the story of redemption and hope that he shared, they opened up to further discussion.
Friendships strengthened, intertwined with the newfound belief of the youth. Jackson’s testimony of faith led to small changes as the boys started to quit smoking and drinking until it brought light to every aspect of their lives. Sports games changed from competition to fellowship and prayer interlaced in conversations.
Meetings were held on Wednesdays for prayer and Jackson ministered to the small group that increased in number every week. The attendants rapidly expanded to include friends and family of the players in addition to the players themselves. Jackson’s title changed from “coach” to “pastor” and the gatherings became more structured. Others from Jackson’s church joined in and alternately shared with the group.
What started out as a team was now a church – the body of Christ spreading throughout the area. Instead of returning home after harvest, Jackson kept up the meetings and relationships he had formed. It was more than farmland. It was a changed community.