Our guide took us to his village and began the tour by showing us the house where he was born and raised. He is one of the known Protestant believers. A talented brother, he holds degrees in history and linguistics. His life has been devoted to his people, the Safi, and he has researched and prepared an extensive French manuscript of their history.
Moving from yard to yard, we had the opportunity to watch life unfold in a Safi village. Several women had spread green leaves on a mat to dry. Later they would cook them into a sauce to eat with rice. Others were preparing meals on charcoal grills.
At the village well, young women were drawing water to wash clothes. Other women and children were sitting on mats in the shade of a large tree as they prepared a special drink made from crushed peanuts, bread and sugar. They offered us a sample. It was delicious!
Some of the men were gathered in a yard, sharing stories. They were smiling and having a great time of fellowship. I was impressed at how approachable they were. I thought, “How is it that an open society like the Safi, just an hour’s drive from the capital city of Dakar, Senegal, has so little evangelical witness?”
Returning to our guide’s home, we sat down to a meal of rice and okra prepared by his lovely wife. I was asked to pray
and give thanks for the food.
I have been praying ever since that God will send revival to the Safi nation and that Christ’s kingdom power will be manifested by many coming to saving faith in Jesus. May the Lord send messengers into this needy harvest field.
Safi Profile