Worship African Style

Rhythmic drum beats, smiling faces, little boy's feet swinging off the bench, the congregation singing for an hour and the sermon being translated in Bambara and French. Worship for us was much different than what we are all usually used to, but our hearts resonated with our brothers and sisters in Christ at Bethel Church. Today's sermon was based on 1 Peter 2:2 about continuing to grow in your faith by reading the Word and imitating Christ in your life. Great words. We hope your days of worship were uplifting.

Last night we had the 3 teaching pastors from Bethel and their wives for dinner. It was a spaghetti dinner American style. We learned a lot about their culture, the Bible and they asked us all about American Farming. (there is a joke here about being a "bean eater") so to be a soy bean farmer was over-the-top! We talked about how difficult it is to be a Christian around the world: Here in Mali where you will be disowned by your Muslim family, or in France & America where people think you are narrow minded. We learned that kids are named after the idol that "brings" them to their family. When they come to Christ, they change their names. Changed from the inside and the outside. These families are overflowing with the joy of Christ and there was so much laughter. We wish you could have joined us.

One of the untitled jobs of the short term missionaries is to encourage those who serve here full time. It has been our pleasure to bring treats to the wonderful people that work here, listen to their stories, and pray for them. Please join us in remembering them in your prayers and supporting them through the Great Commission Fund.

We have enjoyed our day of rest. I especially liked my hour of photography with Rachael with the local kids following us. But tomorrow, it is back to work. God bless you.