Trevor, the photographer I worked with for years, only wore khaki, the green version of khaki. This was his brand, his style. And to finish off the colonial era explorer's look, he brandished a pith helmet in the same colour. We were in Gent, Belgium, reporting on a flower show for the magazine Garden and Home. People would look, point, and comment: "...Meester Leevingston..."
Our editor asked explicitly for close ups of the Belgian King and Queen, the patrons of the flower show. I said ‘yes', as was my natural inclination. To find out later that that is easier said than done, with the way these dignitaries are surrounded by security.
Looking at one of South Africa's huge floral exhibitions, boasting the rich plant inheritance of the Kirstenbosch, that year after year won the gold, I got an idea. Trevor should hide in advance in the arrangement, perfectly camouflaged by his apparel. The King and Queen's procession were bound to walk past it, and he would have perfect access with the right lens. Admittedly, there were a few tense moments...but the end results were worth it.
In journalism, as in the Christian walk, it is who you know. Your worth is literally determined by your powerful contacts. When people in the line of work commented on a scoop, I always pointed upwards, saying: "I know Someone very influential...". Then, as now, I was not so much into "full time service for the Lord", thinking in stereotypes of career versus missions, but rather full time connected to High Places regardless of place or activity. To have Him as closest companion in travels, as Source of creative ideas, Supplier of budget, information and security, cannot be equaled by the best boss or benefactor of this world.
In seeking the advancement of His interest first of all, namely His kingdom, we will find our best interest taken care of day and night. Put plainly, pray for all you encounter for salvation. We prayed for the King and Queen of Belgium as well, of course, and years later I heard from a trusted source that they had a very special encounter with the Holy Spirit.
There is nothing new under the sun, as Proverbs say, but I can experience His character anew in amazement every day in your travels. That is why the expression "A God encounter" is so rich, since the word "encounter" contains an element of surprise.
May He keep us humble and sensitive to care, yet strong enough to count in this world. (Rom. 11:36)
Dini
Comments