My first Capricorn meal

Today I was honored to be invited for Sunday lunch at a home in Capricorn! After being in South Africa 15 months, this was my first invitation to 'dine' with a family in Capricorn. I know this family because they send their kids to Living Hope Clubs and I've been picking up all the kids of their house for Sunday School & church on Sunday mornings. Their invitation seemed to be a thank you & welcoming me into their family-time.
The whole house was 'at attention.' There are 8 adults + 6 kids living in the house and all were swiftly moving around - sweeping, cleaning, helping with lunch, entertaining the guest (me). The 'good dishes' were brought out, coke was served out of glasses with saucers underneath - we chatted & I played with the children for a long while. When it was time for lunch to be served, I was asked to dish my plate first. There were LOTS of options: chicken curry, fried potatoes, fried chicken, beef pie, noodle bake, beet-root salad, yellow rice, bean salad... I can't even remember all I ate. While serving my plate, I skipped over a few dishes (knowing there was no way I would be able to eat all that I was offered) but the mom of the house looked at my plate, spotted what I'd 'forgotten' to get on my plate and made sure I had a little of everything. Whew- it was a lot! So, I began to tackle this plate of traditional South African Coloured foods and I was failing to see the possibility of finishing. So as the family was talking to me, coming in and out of the kitchen, I saw that the children were done with their small plates and asked them if they wanted more food - they of course said yes, so I slid portions of my plate into theirs. It was a brilliant move! My plate looked cleaner and as if I'd finished my servings and the children were extra full!
After lunch, we sat and chatted some more - talking about jobs, the South African racism, the effects of the World Cup on South Africa... A whole realm of things! This family is a new relationship in my life - and boy are they a new ministry. They're wonderful, welcoming people but not Christians YET.
I left before dessert could be served. I knew I couldn't take it. I was invited back and told them it was an honor & privilege to join them for lunch. This is a day I'll never forget - my first Capricorn meal!

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