In light of the successful hosting of the world cup I have been reflecting on South Africa, and what incredible strides they have made as a nation since apartheid. One particularly strong voice for the defense of human rights is Nobel Peace Prize laureate Desmond Tutu. This Anglican Archbishop of Cape Town has played a significant role in the ending of apartheid through his rigorous advocacy of non-violence and push for reconciliation between all parties involved.
A few months ago I purchased “An African Prayer Book” which is a collection–compiled by Desmond Tutu–of the spiritual riches of the vast and varied continent of Africa. I was moved by a simple piece that breathes new life into an ancient canticle through an African context. Tutu attributes this to a “Traditional African” source:
AN AFRICAN CANTICLE
All you big things, bless the Lord.
Mount Kilimanjaro and Lake Victoria,
The Rift Valley and the Serengeti Plain,
Fat baobabs and shady mango trees,
All eucalyptus and tamarind trees,
Bless the Lord.
Praise and extol Him for ever and ever.
All you tiny things, bless the Lord.
Busy black ants and hopping fleas,
Wriggling tadpoles and mosquito larvae,
Flying locusts and water drops,
Pollen dust and tsetse flies,
Millet seeds and dried dagaa,
Bless the Lord.
Praise and extol Him for ever and ever.
(Washing Disciples Feet)