Christmas Memories….

Mufaro and his wife Rudo brought so much fun…

Christmas Memories: A Thanksgiving Celebration with Mufaro and Rudo

Thanksgiving this year wasn’t just another holiday—it became an unforgettable celebration of Christmas spirit, laughter, and connection. My wife and I had the pleasure of hosting a newly married couple, Mufaro and Rudo, for the day. Adding to the merry atmosphere was my sister-in-law, who was visiting Pretoria all the way from Harare. Her presence brought an extra touch of family warmth and joy, making the day even more special. Mufaro and Rudo’s energy and laughter lit up our home, ensuring the day was filled with love, meaningful fellowship, and festive cheer.

Preparation: Setting the Stage for Joy

The day began with a flurry of preparation. My wife took charge of tidying the house, ensuring every corner reflected the warmth of the season. She meticulously laid the dining table, each detail thoughtfully placed to make our guests feel cherished. Meanwhile, I took to the garden, trimming the grass to ensure our yard matched the welcoming atmosphere inside.

Our daughter, ever eager to help, ran errands to pick up last-minute ingredients and treats. Our son, unfortunately, was away visiting friends, but his absence didn’t dampen our spirits. The house buzzed with anticipation as the clock ticked closer to the arrival of our guests.

Welcoming Our Guests

Mufaro and Rudo arrived, their smiles as bright as the morning sun. We welcomed them with a warm embrace and a simple but heartfelt exchange of gifts. The mood lightened further as we shared drinks and indulged in a rich chocolate cake, breaking the ice with stories and laughter. It was a beautiful moment of connection, as though we had known each other for years rather than months.

A Feast to Remember

Lunch was the highlight of the day. My wife and I wanted to ensure our menu was a blend of tradition and festivity. The table was adorned with a spread that celebrated Zimbabwean culture alongside classic holiday dishes. Mopani worms, maize meal, and sorghum meal brought a taste of home, while beef stew paired with kale and peanut butter rice offered a delightful mix of flavors.

We complemented the traditional dishes with turkey, brown rice, white rice, a vibrant salad, and rich gravy. For dessert, watermelon and an assortment of sweet treats awaited, alongside refreshing drinks. As we sat around the table, the conversations flowed effortlessly. Mufaro and Rudo shared stories about their work, their garden flat in Pretoria, and their plans for their third wedding anniversary, which was just days away.

Entertainment and Laughter

After lunch, the real fun began. The living room transformed into a hub of excitement as we introduced Mufaro and Rudo to a traditional Shona game called Tsoro. Their competitive spirits came alive during the stacking cones competition, where we played four thrilling rounds before announcing a winner. The room erupted in cheers and friendly banter, the sound of laughter echoing through the house.

Next came a general knowledge quiz, which sparked lively debates and moments of hilarity as we resorted to Google for some answers. We paused briefly for a house and garden tour, giving Mufaro and Rudo a glimpse of the space we call home, before returning to finish the game. The shared moments of joy and discovery bonded us even closer.

Words from the Heart

As the evening drew near, it was time for concluding remarks. I shared a few words about the importance of intimacy with God and how it fosters unity in relationships. I emphasized the value of going beyond meeting at church or in small groups to truly knowing one another through visits and shared experiences.

Mufaro followed with his reflections, expressing how much he valued the opportunity to see us outside the structured environment of church. “Spending time in your home has shown me how warm and welcoming you are,” he said. “It’s refreshing to escape the fast-paced urban life and simply connect.”

Rudo’s words touched our hearts deeply. She spoke with emotion, likening us to her parents and expressing her admiration for how we had welcomed and cared for her and her husband. “I’ve always seen you as mentors,” she said, her voice soft with gratitude. “Now, I feel like your fourth child. Your love and generosity are truly inspiring.”

To conclude, we gathered for a moment of prayer and Holy Communion. I led the group in prayer, reflecting on the blessings of the day, while Mufaro reciprocated our hospitality with a heartfelt prayer of blessing.

Memories to Last a Lifetime

Before the evening ended, we took several photos to commemorate the day. Each snapshot captured the joy, warmth, and camaraderie we had shared. As Mufaro and Rudo prepared to leave, we bid them farewell with promises to stay in touch. True to her thoughtful nature, Rudo called us as soon as they arrived home to let us know they had traveled safely.

That Thanksgiving, which we celebrated in the spirit of Christmas, reminded us of the beauty of connection and the power of opening our home and hearts to others. Mufaro and Rudo didn’t just visit—they became part of our family, leaving behind memories we’ll cherish forever.