The Beauty of Church

It was Sunday today.  Climbing the hill to church, I felt weary, it had been a long week of learning so many new things.  We are still getting used the different sounds at night, the warmth of the days and the new routine.  

As people streamed into the church, I was impressed by the reverence and focus. Instead of visiting with their neighbours, individuals would come in, sit and take a few moments to collect themselves. When praise and worship began, the focus was completely on God.  The singing, dancing and praise that came from each person was so pure it brought tears to my eyes.  It felt as though every burden had been left at the door, so when the congregation came in, they were ready to put 100% of themselves into worshipping and praising God.  It was more than action,  it was the underlying attitude that was shifted.

Hmm, how often have I came to church with the hope that church would lift my spirits and give me something to carry me through the week?  What I saw today was people coming in with an attitude of "what can I give?" as opposed to "what can I get?".  If this was our attitude every time we went to church, can you imagine the difference?

Back to today . . .the main focus was thanksgiving.  This is a regular part of Sunday service--counting your blessings, sharing what God has done and giving Him glory.  Interspersed through is also songs of praise, singing, dancing, and so much enthusiasm!  

What brought a smile to my face was the youth choir--the mamas and girls from our home.  They sing with all their heart and dance beautifully.  In the middle of the choir is one mama--Epiphany (a dear, 75 year old mama).  She sings and dances with the energy of a young woman, totally in love with her Saviour.  Oh have I a lot to learn. 

When it comes to tithes and offerings, young and old are encouraged to give--joyfully.  For new believers, it may be a new concept, but nevertheless encouraged.

Last week, Pastor Ed (the director we took over for) preached.  This week, it was Kim's turn.  As he preached about faith, it was great to see how the congregation accepted his message.  We pray that they will take to heart the importance of having faith and trust in God.

We kept a quiet day today, reading, resting, playing a few games.  We want to guard this day of rest and make sure that we honour God by setting this day aside as a holy day.  This is not to sound religious, but setting a boundary in making sure that we are taking care of ourselves, as a family, so that as we pour out, we can be filled.

Thank you for your prayers.

This week, please pray specifically for:

--Speedy applications for the birth certificates, we get them notarized and sent to Canada

--Favour as we return to the visa office (no more surprises) so that we can get our 2-year missionary visas without further delay.

--Wisdom in shopping and cooking for me (Renae), to find a healthy balance so the teens are not always hungry

--Continued clarity as we learn the day-to-day running of the property and the culture.