One of the most hilarious memories that itch my mind is reminisce of my childhood years in
primary school when I was appointed the head prefect. At first, I took pride in that position
knowing that with all power bestowed on me, I could subjugate all the other pupils. I almost
felt like a commander in chief who would issue orders from a couch with just a mere cough.
Indeed, I walked with my head high waving wildly and smiling broadly to everyone so that I
could be noticed; you don't let go such positions without blowing several trumpets, halloo!
Could I have been told what awaited me, I could have surrendered the position instantly.
Why? Trouble became my partner and the friends I formerly thought would be in the
forefront to support me turned their backs against me. To start with, maintaining order during
class hours was like a mountain-climbing task. Requesting pupils to maintain silence would
attract statements such as, "unless we make noise you cannot get a job", "If you want the
quietest place go to a cave", or "give us a break and if you are fed up resign!" I am sure these
aren't far-fetched insults; you might have heard them in your days too. The worst moments
would be intimidation by the tall bullies who threatened to make me know why an egg
doesn't have hair in case their names appeared on the noisemakers' list. I would end up being
on the crossroads unsure whether to please the Hitler-stern teachers and risk my head or save
the head and risk a rain of whips on my bottom. Such encounters taught me to applaud all
people venturing in leadership because it's not easy. Actually, you will bear me witness that
sometimes it becomes hectic leading our own selves.
With regards to leadership, my greatest hero is my Patron, overseer Karanja. He is a true
definition of what a selfless leader is. His efforts, self-sacrifice and devotion are
incomparable to any other person's living in our times. I can only compare his determination
to Moses', the biblical hero who would afflict his soul for deliberate transgressions of the
children of Israel. Overseer's work spreads all over Kenya, shepherding the entire flock of
Yahshua. Beyond borders, he is not spared either; he is ever on the move either within or
outside the continent tending his share of Elohim's vineyard. How I marvel at his
enthusiasm! Whereas we are almost fainting of fatigue due to minor tasks here and there, he
handles mountains of tasks and when you are almost sympathizing with him thinking he is
almost breaking down, he becomes revitalized like an eagle and his face sparkles with
freshness like a newly hatched chick. Sounds bizarre, right? I know. Because this is not
normal! There must be some other divine wells of energy that lush in him.
His return from the United States this month attracted hundreds of believers within Nairobi to
thank God for a bon voyage. We all gathered in the country's church headquarters in Nairobi
with our hearts full of praises and mouths bursting with ululations to God for safeguarding
our Bishop and his wife in their journey. Special presentations were staged to spice up the
day but the climax was reached when Nairobi Choir presented their breathtaking
performance. In their scarlet red shirts/blouses, navy blue trousers/skirts and coal black shoes,
even a groggy eye couldn't help glaring. Their sweet voices lulled our hearts and their milk-
white teeth sparkled in the gleam of light that stared them with obstinacy. I couldn't help
imagine how God in heaven nodded in approval, snapped fingers and rhythmically stamped
His foot. Oh! It is worth explaining something here because misconceptions have made some
people think it is devious to have such a posh welcome. It should be very clear that we do not
deify the overseer; on the contrary, we hold such events whenever we have something to
thank God for. By the way I feel privileged because other than being a zealous church
member, I hold the top position in youth leadership, a post that I adore and take pride in.
through it, I have come to terms with weird personalities which only an insider can
understand. I do not intend to blow my own trumpet 'cause this article isn't about me but I
want to confess what I feel serving in this capacity. I always feel honored and blessed living
and serving in the same era with overseer Karanja.
overseer-karanja.jpg