I can’t say I knew Maranga much. We did get to meet at a couple of concerts and he was always in a do rag, a camera slung on his shoulder. He had a simple point and shoot when we met at Hillcrest for Blankets and Wine on 7th March 2010 which had grown into a powerful Canon the last time we met at a concert at Alliance Francaise earlier this year. The little interaction we had about photography was enough for him to have a memorable impact in my life. The greatest impact however came with his departure to be with our Saviour.

Maranga’s tribute concert at The National Theatre last evening was full of family, friends and acquaintances who spoke highly of him as a brother, leader, entertainer, editor, director, funny man and above all, son of the Most High. It got me wondering: what kind of influence am I having with my life? Am I serving my God-given purpose? When I finally go home, will God say, “Well done my son. Great is your reward.”

Oh, how I’d like to hear those words. How I’d like you to hear those sweet words.