Lloyd worked for us for 3+ years when we served in Mazabuka, Zambia. His wife Mutinta had been part of a monthly discipleship group with my wife and the wife of another missionary. She also helped us out in many occasions on the farm and was a trusted friend. Both Lloyd and Mutinta were and are still very special to us!
In the States, it’s common for the husband to be part of the delivery. That’s not always the case in Zambia. And it wasn’t the case for Lloyd. Back in July of 2014, Mutinta was expecting to give birth to their second child, a son. In Zambia we lived about 45 minutes from the nearest clinic. So, Mutinta moved in with her parents temporarily until she had the baby. Lloyd, on the other hand, stayed at the farm, working and awaiting word daily on the safe delivery of their son.
After a few weeks, we finally received word from the family. A baby boy had been born. Lloyd was in the middle of work. So, he stopped, cleaned up and got ready to go. I also finished doing a few things and then we hopped into the car and headed to Mutinta’s parent’s home (that’s where her and the baby were now staying). As we walked into the small house, we found them both resting. Another difference in Africa, surrounding child birth, is that most of the time, women give birth and go home the same day - THE SAME DAY! Crazy huh? They don’t stay at the hospital to be cared for and many times, they even have to bring their own birthing supplies. Needless to say, we didn't stay too long.
It was great share this special moment with this dear family. They didn’t have to include me, but I was so thankful that they did. After picking up a few things for Mutinta from the local shops, Lloyd and I headed back to the farm. A few minutes into the drive, Lloyd surprised me with a question. He said "Do you want to know the name?" In trying to be respectful, I really didn’t ask too many questions when I was in their home. I just sat quietly and enjoyed the moment. Any normal person would have probably asked them what they were naming their baby, but apparently I’m not normal, because I didn’t ask.
Lloyd told me that he and Mutinta decided beforehand that they were going to name their son Brent! I was extremely humbled, so much so that I didn’t know what to say. I told Lloyd how happy I was for him and Mutinta and how honored I was that he would name his child after me.
I’ve reflected on this experience many times over the years. I used to think that going and serving on mission in Africa was about I get to do great things and change lives through preaching and teaching Christ. There is nothing wrong with that. It’s admirable. But what I’ve learned as a full-time missionary, is that many times it’s the missionary who is being taught. Many times, it’s the missionary who is being ministered too. Many times it’s the missionary who is receiving the love of Jesus through those he/she came to serve. This is what happened to me on that day in July when I found out I had a little African namesake in Zambia!