Church

This last Sunday, George and I attended church with Lulu. Her church has an English service which is a blessing for me. I didn't think there would be an English service here. We were told it starts at 7:30am. George, understanding African time (which runs notoriously late), suggested we go at 8:00. Her church was nice. It was located near the market, in a small, simple building. The congregation was small (maybe 60 or so people), but mighty. They obviously loved the Lord. When we got there, singing was in progress. I recognized a couple Swahili songs I heard in Kenya and they sang some in English as well. People here sing with exuberance. They love to sing out and dance at the same time. I love it, although, I personally am more reserved. After singing, the visitors were called to the front of the church to introduce themselves and greet the congregation (Should we try that in the US?!). They really value visitors here and genuinely want to meet them. I'm a behind the scenes type of person so standing in front is not where I prefer to be. Fortunately, George did most of the speaking for us.

The sermon began after the announcements were over. I think the man preaching was a guest speaker. He did a really nice job. He taught from Luke 24:13-34 and talked about Jesus as our companion. He said a few things that stuck with me:

1. Jesus is always walking with us. It's not about if we feel Him. He is there. The question is, do we see him.
2. Often our eyes are closed, spiritually, and we need to pray for our eyes to be opened so we can really see what is going on.
3. The solution to our problems is closer than we think - it's only the distance from our heads to our knees.

Of course, he said so many more good things. The service was nice and it was really good to be in fellowship with other believers. I was greatly encouraged. Next week, I think we are going to Herbert's church up on the mountain. That is if I can haul me and my belly up there!