10 AUGUST MMXX
MATTHEW 5:16
1
Jade
Demi
WEEKLY JOURNAL / NUMBER 5 /
Johnson
A MARK ON ETERNITY
tv VOCA
10 AUGUST 2020
M AT T H E W 5 : 1 6
I N T H E S A M E W A Y, L E T Y O U R L I G H T S H I N E B E F O R E O T H E R S , S O T H AT T H E Y M AY S E E YOUR GOOD WORKS AND GIVE GLORY TO Y O U R FAT H E R W H O I S I N H E AV E N .
kréhon VOCAtv
2
issuu.com/krehon
A C T I V E A U G U S T
VOCAtv MATTHEW 5:16
3
10 AUGUST 2020
kréhon
tv VOCA BE.
BECOM E.
BE HOLD .
Editor-in-Chief JAYLEE GERTSE
Editorial Team LIAM BARNWELL | TONI ERASMUS JOHN-DANIEL JOSEPHS | JAY-DEE PRINS ELEAZAR RODGERS | CHESRAY RHODE ASISIPHO TSOTSA | JUSTIN WESSELS
Founder / Director / Designer MARK ZION MICHAELS
G E T TO K N O W # T E A M V O C A The views expressed throughout kréhon VOCA is based on the diverse findings of stories discovered from different corners of the local and international region. We aim to deliver sound truths and facts that are biblically, culturally and economically accurate. above all, this is a platform for freedom of expression.
We promote peace, connection, wisdom and understanding.
INSIDE VOCA MAGAZINE PAGE 86 Via issuu.com
F AC E B OO K / @ K RE HO N / I N STAG RA M / @ K REHO NM E DI A E MA IL : KR EH O N . VO CA @G MA I L .CO M / 081 33 4 853 1 kréhon VOCAtv
4
issuu.com/krehon
1&3 by @grantdyers 2 by @seenbyabi
1 3 2
“You're here to leave a mark on eternity. Don't downplay your existence.” @oh_hey_demi_jade
MATTHEW 5:16
6 8 10 12 14 18 5
SUNSHINE THOUGHTS A CARING HEART MOVING FORWARD W/ ELEAZAR RODGERS TRIBUTE TO VINCENT ANDREW RODGERS CREATURE FEATURE CALL ME DADDY GTI YOUTH LONELY LOCKDOWN CRYPTIC MOUNTAIN S1/E6 THINK ABOUT IT VOCA TV - TOP 10 WOMEN WHO LOVE
Contents
COVER PHOTOGRAPHY
10 AUGUST 2020
S U NS H INE TH OU G HT S
A CARING HEART Greetings beloveds I hope your hearts are doing well this week.
JAYLEE GERTSE Editor-in-Chief
kréhon VOCAtv
I am of the strong opinion that we were made for and in community. Way back in Genesis it was seen how Adam and Eve existed together with the birds of the sky, all the other living beings and nature all around them. There are various references in the Bible on ‘togetherness’ and communal care.
6
MY
sister and I encountered a situation in this week that made us feel stuck, there was an issue with her car as we were on our way home from an appointment. We certainly needed assistance in that moment, it wasn’t something that we could handle on our own. During our situation we made contact with loved ones who could assist us and they tried their utmost best, but what stood out to us the most was four strangers immediately leaving everything they were set out to do for that moment to assist us.
issuu.com/krehon
One couple were on their way to the mall, one guy sped past us with paperwork in his hand and another guy was an Uber driver. In our country and as women we’ve grown so accustomed to the coldness and crime factor of our society that we honestly didn’t expect such genuinely benevolent assistance. When the couple passed us, the lady turned to her partner a n d s a i d , “ b a b e t h e y n e e d h e l p” a n d immediately he stepped in and assisted. Their character came through as they didn’t complain or even joke about ‘these women who has no idea how to sort out their car problem’. They were all male and didn’t make us feel inadequate, instead they were particularly concerned for our wellbeing asking if we would be okay when they left. In fact, we tried our utmost best to sort out this situation on our own first. In the light of GBV, the high crime rate and society’s unwillingness to reach out a helping hand (mostly because of the self-centred and independent culture but also because people’s trust had been broken) - we weren’t going to take chances. Add COVID-19 to the package and we’re all extremely attentive to just being vulnerable and asking for help. We had to wait a bit for one of our friends who worked nearby to come out to assist us and so we were just using that time to bask in the sun. The Uber driver drove past us for a second time, parked his car and asked if we were okay, I knew our friend needed to wait another ten minutes before he
MATTHEW 5:16
could leave work, but I just said ‘Yes sir, thank you we are okay’. He ended up parking his car near us, didn’t speak a word to us any further. Our friend only arrived 20 minutes later and when he arrived and we got out of the car to greet him, only then did the man leave. My sister was the one who realised that he waited with us for that entire time. When we drove home, we discussed the moment, and our responses. And immediately agreed that God intended for people to be in community, so that we can live, share and grow together. I’m really growing into that idea of life. We are created to assist (help) and be assisted (helped). We are created to cover each other’s backs as a human race regardless of gender, race, culture, religion or class. We were meant to exist in harmony with each other and assist each other without complaint. My hopes sparked in that moment when I realised that a South Africa such as this is totally possible. In this new week consider ways in which you can create this community of care that our country so desperately needs.
We were meant to exist in harmony with each other and assist each other without complaint.
Take care and stay safe,
7
10 AUGUST 2020
WIT H
MO V ING F OR WARD E L EA Z AR R O D GE R S I am a fortunate and proud son of Vincent Rodgers, who was well known to many as a soccer legend. My Dad was a God-fearing man, anyone who experienced a glimpse of his life, would agree that he did everything in his power to love and serve our family. My father lead by example. He was an exceptionally humble man. He was born on 24 / 06 / 1954. He adopted the name “Slappes”, because of his flexible and acrobatic ability as a goal keeper. Many thought he had exceptional talent , he even received a call up to WP and a stint as semipro with Cape Town United which bears testimony of his talented skills. During 1972 he instilled so much confidence in his team, that they were able to achieve 5 trophies during his tenure! Unfortunately my father lost the use of his fingers during an accident at work at the peak of his career. I know he would have been one of the great legends in South Africa, to me he definitely was and still is!
Tribute to
VINCENT RODGERS A
N
D
BY
kréhon VOCAtv
R
E
W
Eleazar Rogers
8
issuu.com/krehon
V
incent Rodger’s involvement with Ebenezer Congregational Church was the start of a new life in Christ. My father was saved in 1980 and surrendered his life to Christ with complete devotion. He served as a Sunday school facilitator at Ebenezer and further represented the church on the Regional Children’s Ministry Committee. He was the second eldest son of his Mother Mary Rodgers and his late Father Robert Rodgers. My Dad also had a good tenor voice, and his overall favourite sung song was The Lighthouse. During his Christian walk with Christ, he was a servant and also served on the Nooiensfontein wards as a Deacon. It’s quite clear that he left an undeniable impact wherever he went and wherever he served. The memories of my Dad was recognising the way he conducted himself around people, with complete humility and a servant heart. He worked as a Welder assuring that the work was done with great quality. Some of my fondest memories were the times I went to watch him play or referee soccer matches, he was completely committed and passionate about soccer, this sparked up something within me. I decided to follow in his
MATTHEW 5:16
footsteps by adopting his professional attitude towards the game. Since I have implemented them well I was able to achieve more than I ever dreamed of within South African football. I played professionally for 14 years including national level at under 23 and Bafana Bafana. Vincent Rodgers leaves behind – His wife Magdeline Rodgers, My mother Eleanor Rodgers, His children Oriole Hamman , Ryan Rodgers , Crystal Jacobs, Eleazar Rodgers and Darryl Rodgers. He as our father will forever be in our hearts. Many people had the honour of knowing my Dad and have sent countless messages of tributes which iterates how treasured and respected he was and as a family we are sincerely grateful and thankful for these messages of hope. In conclusion, a verse of encouragement and peace, John 14:1-3 “Let not your heart be troubled” ... and thou will keep in perfect peace whose eyes is kept on Thee. I will forever keep my eyes on Thee (The Lord Jesus Christ) and be grateful for the time spent with you here on earth. I will continue the race for you Daddy and continue the legacy by inspiring and encouraging as many as I can while I still have time! Thank you Daddy I will Love you always, from your son Eleazar Rodgers.
9
10 AUGUST 2020
C R EAT U R E F EATU R E
BY
Liam Barnwell
Call me Daddy
E
ight long black legs plonked in the corner of your room can instantly give anybody the creeps. The daddy long legs is quite recognisable for its distinct small body with long thin legs. This look will automatically make somebody think that it is a spider, which is understandable, but you need not worry! Daddy long legs aren’t spiders, but rather part of the arachnid family called Opiliones. Unlike
kréhon VOCAtv
spiders, they only have 2 eyes, can’t produce silk, and they lack fangs and venom. In the science community they are also referred to as harvestmen. Lacking venom, daddy long legs can’t turn their prey into soup like spiders do, so they actually just chomp and chew on their food – which includes flies, plants and fruit. One disadvantage they have, is that they can’t regrow their legs like spiders do, so once it’s gone, it’s gone for good. Speaking of losing legs to
predators, they are also able to release a certain chemical to fend off possible threats. There are about 6600 species of opiliones that can be found all over the world – except for Antarctica. They can live up to 1 year, and in some areas they are even considered a symbol of good luck. So be of good cheer – these little critters cannot harm humans. Next time you see one, maybe consider giving it a meal in the form of the fly that you just swatted.
10
Unlike spiders, they only have 2 eyes, can’t produce silk, and they lack fangs and venom.
issuu.com/krehon
"She considers a field and buys it; with the fruit of her hands she plants a vineyard. She dresses herself with strength and makes her arms strong."
Proverbs 31:16-17 Photographer: @grantdyers
MATTHEW 5:16
11
10 AUGUST 2020
GT I Y OU TH p re se n ts BY
Chesray Rhode
Lonely Lockdown
The concept of lockdown is something that excited many at first. The idea of being able to stay at home for 3 weeks and spending time with family - not having to get out of bed! Amazing! Wouldn’t you agree? The magnitude of the pandemic had not yet hit us until the lockdown got extended and we quickly realised that this way of doing life is going to become the new ‘normal’; characterised by Zoom calls and virtual interactions. However, one thing we did not prepare ourselves for were the emotional impact of lockdown. During a weekly meeting with our interns a survey was conducted to try and determine what their biggest struggles are. This group of young people made it clear that loneliness is something that all of them struggle with. Being lonely is a concept that not only affects the youth but all generations regardless of race, colour or age.
kréhon VOCAtv
12
issuu.com/krehon
T
hose who are familiar with psychology will understand that Erikson stated within his theory of childhood development that a d o l e s c e n c e, o r c o m m o n l y referred to as puberty, is probably the most vital and challenging time of development. A time where friends and society play an important role in decision making. Where the influences of friends are more important than family. When “exploring” is more important than evading. Being young is challenging. However, being a youth during lockdown holds its own set of challenges that are new to this generation. Friends and social interactions have been taken out of the equation and many are left feeling isolated and lonely. Research shows that social media plays a pivotal role in teens experiencing an increased feeling of loneliness. In a generation where social media has become another realm of living, many teens find themselves saying that they have likes but no friends. Social media has become a way for young people to feel fulfilled and successful. They are able create an online persona of the way they would like to be viewed, and in many cases, this is not who they are. When their cellphones are turned off at night, they find themselves alone and desperate for real connection that cannot be found on a screen. Lockdown has resulted in many young people not being able to attend youth and church. For the first time I think that the world is able to fully understand the role of the church within society. The church exceeds the building – the church is
MATTHEW 5:16
the people. Where the people are the house of the Father exists. However, God reminds us in His word that human beings cannot live in isolation. We were made to have fellowship with one another, to engage with one another; to gather in corporate worship and prayer (Hebrews 10:24-25). Furthermore, we are called to encourage one another, glorify God and make His name great! The topic of loneliness during lockdown is addressed in a series presented by GTI Youth, bearing in mind that this is the reality of many young people. The series started on Friday 31 July 2020. The main scriptures were Hebrews 4:15 “For we do not have a High Priest who is unable to s y m p a t h i s e a n d u n d e r s t a n d o u r weaknesses and temptations, but One who has been tempted [knowing exactly how it feels to be human] in every respect as we are, yet without [committing any] sin” (AMP) and John 11:35 “Then Jesus wept” (NIV). John 11:35 is the shortest verse in the Bible yet it is such a powerful verse. These verses teach us that Jesus who was fully man and fully God was able to feel emotions in the same way we do. Jesus was not a robot. He knows what it is to endure tremendous pain. In these verses He shows us that it is okay to weep, to be vulnerable, to experience feelings intensely. We are able to trust Him because He knows how we feel and exactly know how to help us. In part two of the series “Lonely lockdown” we will be looking at how to handle battles we did not choose but yet still have to face. Be encouraged in knowing that we serve a God who sees our tears because He has cried His own. You might feel lonely but that does not mean that you are alone in your battle.
13
Jesus was not a robot. He knows what it is to endure tremendous pain. He shows us that it is okay to weep, to be vulnerable, to experience feelings intensely. 10 AUGUST 2020
OR I GI N A L DR A M A SE R I ES
S1 E6
Cryptic Mountain
“THINK ABOUT IT”
Created by MARK ZION
Previously on Cryptic Mountain Melvin planned on visiting his childhood home in Johannesburg. Chloe accepted Hildegarde’s high profile job offer. Meanwhile, her parents came to visit. A confused Lindani faced some stern confrontation from Deidre, who suspects that he is the mysterious occupant of the storeroom in the parking lot. Lance suggested that he and Chloe elope. Why the sudden spontaneity?
kréhon VOCAtv
14
issuu.com/krehon
[Opening Scene: Lance’s Loft]
[Scene 2: The Gradient Hotel]
The lights are dimmed. Lance’s face lit up with nerves. Chloe feels as though she’s having some warped dream. She has been doubting Lance’s intentions with her. Has he finally grown up? Is he ready to make this very serious commitment? Or have they been wasting each other’s time?
It’s a gusty night in Wharflock. Deidre’s hotel suite is warm and bright. After having a warm shower, she gets ready to glide into bed with a good book. Lance’s latest best seller. As she continues to read, she comes across a chapter titled “A blended man.” The portion she reads talks about Lance’s personal research on how the issues that so often come up about careers or relationships could often be traced back, sooner or later, to the lack of relationship with their fathers. Suddenly, Deidre thinks about Lindani. Where does he come from? And what about Lance? Is success enough for him to be content with himself? Deidre feels guilty for not telling Lance what she knows about his father. Is it time for her to give him some answers? Is it her responsibility?
LANCE: We’ve wasted enough time, don’t you think? CHLOE: (flinching) Lance… I don’t- I don’t know how to- what to say. LANCE: Say yes. CHLOE: Yes to what? We’ve been together for almost 3 years. You were so present in the beginning. You’ve been fading towards the middle. And then I just started to know you as Lance the writer and my so-called boyfriend. LANCE: I understand. And it’s important that you give me those hard words. Let me make it up to you. I know I’ve been distant. I’ve been travelling down this winding road of trying to make peace with the fact that my life is “going as planned.” Not that there ever was a specific plan… Growing up with just uncle Mel, my mother being a mere friction of my imagination… Being a product of an interracial affair. I’ve been questioning my identity and trying to find answers that I probably don’t really need to lead a truly successful life. CHLOE: Lance, your birthday is in a few hours. Don’t you think it’s time you find answers from someone other than yourself? LANCE: What do you mean? CHLOE: The One who created you. He knows you better than anybody else ever will. He loves you more than anyone ever will. LANCE: You’ve told me that before. CHLOE: This is not about me, Lance. This is about God and you.
…issues that could trace back to the lack of relationship with their fathers…
MATTHEW 5:16
15
[Scene 3: Lance’s Loft] CHLOE: So what are you gonna do about it? LANCE: Chloe, I tried. I tried praying and asking… God… to give me clarity. CHLOE: I hear you. But have you asked God for God to reveal Himself to you, before giving you clarity or answers? You see, babe, our relationship is a pretty unsatisfying example of how disconnected you are from your Creator. LANCE: I don’t understand. What does that have to do with my love for you? CHLOE: Everything. Absolutely everything. When we first met, I was still a bit clueless as to what I desired in a man. But then it hit me. When I was in high school, I wrote a letter to my husband to be. In there, I expressed the most basic characteristics I’d be looking for in a life partner. A partner anchored in Christ. A man who’d walk in authority and boldness. A husband who would love me like Christ loves the church.
10 AUGUST 2020
Cryptic Mountain
S1 E6
[Scene 4: The Gradient Hotel]
[Scene 5: Lance’s Loft]
There’s a time and a place for everything, Deidre thinks to herself. She decides to write a letter. As she picks up the pen and paper, she hears a knock on her hotel room door. It’s Zaida.
LANCE: Babe, why are you only telling me this now? CHLOE: I don’t know, Lance. I guess I was just focussed on getting to know you better. And then we just went with the flow and drifted in different directions, down the same stream… or whatever… Lance, I really need to go right now. My parents are waiting. LANCE: Wait, before for you go…
DEIDRE: (opening the door) Zaida, I thought you’re long gone home by now? ZAIDA: Aunty D, there’s someone who urgently needs to see you. DEIDRE: Don’t be silly, Zaida. Since when? And this time of the night nogal. ZAIDA: It’s Mister Melvin. DEIDRE: Oh, why didn’t you say so? Let him in. MELVIN: (appearing in the doorway) Hey Didi, do you have some cherry liqueur in there? (grinning) DEIDRE: Just a little. Come inside. Welcome. MELVIN: Just a little? (chuckles) DEIDRE: (greets Zaida) Thank you, Zaida. How are you getting home? ZAIDA: Don’t worry, Aunty D. Quinton is taking me home. DEIDRE: Let me know if he gives you any trouble. I’ll sort him out. ZAIDA: Lol, Aunty D. Don’t worry. See you tomorrow. Bye… (exits into the passage) MELVIN: I thought you lived in a suburb? DEIDRE: I do. My house is being renovated. (takes a seat on the couch) How are you doing, my brother? What brings you here at this hour? MELVIN: I’m in serious trouble, Deidre. I don’t know who else to talk to.
kréhon VOCAtv
16
Lance turns around to pick up the engagement ring. He holds it up for Chloe’s glistening eyes to see. LANCE: Chloe… I admit that I’m not the greatest when it comes to relationships. You’ve given me so many chances, and I took them without truly looking deeper. Without really learning how to appreciate you or our time together. But you must know, that everything I’ve put my mind to, everything I do has your name written all over it… I know you have to go right now. But I should be going with you. I should be waking up next to you. Whip up your favourite smoothie in the morning. Go to church with you. Ditch my friends for you. Run away with you… CHLOE: (misty-eyed) Lance… I love you so much. And I didn’t plan on coming here tonight. And I am leaving in the next 2 minutes. But I’ve prayed about this. And I think God has told me ‘No’ a long time ago. I have to go… (exits the loft in a hurry)
issuu.com/krehon
DEIDRE: (astonished) Melvin, what have you done?? MELVIN: (terrified) I didn’t know what to do, Deidre. I still don’t know. I tried praying but it’s as though I’ve lost my faith over the last couple of years. DEIDRE: You lied to Lance about being seriously ill. You left Fiona in Switzerland to fend for herself just because she has memory loss. And now you’re here in South Africa on a joyride? What happened to you, Melvin? Dawn and I have always looked up to you. Have you forgotten the first commandment? Your promise at the altar, for the the third time? MELVIN: Deidre, I shared this with you because I want to make things right. Please don’t judge me. I took a wrong turn. And now I want to fix things while I still can. But you have to understand my affliction. I’ve lost two wives in the pastDEIDRE: I know, Mel. But your third and current wife is still alive. She just needs you now more than ever? Who is taking care of her right now? Where is she? MELVIN: You don’t have to worry about that. She’s very well taken care of. But she’s become a stranger to me. Honestly, it’s been so hard getting up each morning. I never thought I’d have to deal with issues like this at such an old age. DEIDRE: You have to be honest with Lance, Melvin. That kid loves you like you gave birth to him. He’ll be disappointed, but he’ll get over it. He’s a grown man. MELVIN: He loves you too, Deidre. You were his mom’s best friend. You’ve been actively present in his life, like a second mom. Have you been honest with him? With me? DEIDRE: What do you mean? MELVIN: You know what I’m talking about, Deidre. Suddenly, there’s another knock on Deidre’s hotel room door. DEIDRE: (feeling challenged) Excuse me… (opening the door) Lindani? LINDANI: (eyes full of tears) Miss Dee… please help me… please.
Episode Ends Here | NE W EPISODE NEXT WEEK
MATTHEW 5:16
17
Psalm 119:105
[Scene 6: The Gradient Hotel]
Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path
10 AUGUST 2020
1
P L AYL I ST 1 0 WO ME N’ S E DI TI O N
Hold Me Jamie Grace
Women who Love
Help Us To Love Tori Kelly ft. The Hamiltones
kréhon VOCAtv
2
Click on the Video Thumbnail To Play Song
You Make Me Brave Amanda Cook
18
3
Landslide (Acoustic) Rita Springer
4 issuu.com/krehon
Valentine Hillsong Worship
Good And Loved Travis Greene ft. Doe
MATTHEW 5:16
5
Only Your Love Kari Jobe
6
You Keep On Getting Better Maverick City Music Ft. Majesty Rose
8
Excess Love Mercy Chinwo
9
Love Has A Name Jesus Culture ft. Kim Walker-Smith
19
7
10 10 AUGUST 2020
1956 VOCAtv
kréhon VOCAtv
Rahima Moosa, Lilian Ngoyi, Helen Joseph and Sophia Williams led 20 the 1956 Women's March to the Union Buildings in Pretoria.
issuu.com/krehon
