A Blessed Day

Today we went to Calvary Church in Zomba.  Our friend Kennedy met us at 8:30am to take us on a "short walk" to the church.  We arrived around 9:15am.  It was a beautiful walk. Everyone was out and about on their way to worship services. The sun was shining brightly. The church members were most welcoming, and the components of the service were much like ours in the USA. The music was spirit-filled and energetic.  I absolutely love the passion in which Malawians worship through song and praise.  They sang an active song that expressed, "Jehovah turned my life around;  Jehovah is the only way;  Jehovah has the final say."  There was a short message about giving, and then the church was invited to place their offerings at the altar.  Not only was money placed at the altar, but soap, food, toiletries, and even two chickens -- live ones!  (Those of you who know me well know that I am most terrified of chickens.  This took me aback a bit, but I remained calm!).  Malawians are joyful givers.  It touches me to know that they do not have the resources we do; yet, they give with all their hearts and with all they have.  If only we could do the same in our churches at home.  The preacher then called the leaders of our group (Pat, Sharon and me) to the altar, and he said a most beautiful prayer, asking God to bless our trip, anoint our work here, and to protect us throughout our journey.  It touched my heart, and made me cry a bit.  The sermon was about how to be imitators of Christ, and it focused on how we should love one another, make prayer a daily habit, rely on God's word for guidance and have faith in His Word.  It was a good message, and the speaker went into great detail.  The gospel message was shared with love abounding. It was a blessed way to begin the day.   On our way home from church, I experienced a wonderful surprise!  My little boy, Gerald, passed us along the road on his bike.  When I saw him, I screamed with joy.  He got off of his bike and hugged me.  I have known Gerald since he was 7 years old;  he is now 12 and only about 2 inches shorter than me.  He has grown so much, and still has his sense of humor and adorable smile.  He is so very special to me. We have a special bond and I am convinced that God has placed us in one another's paths for a special reason. Gerald is one of the people I most wanted to see here.  After our greeting, he turned direction and accompanied me to Annie's Lodge where we enjoyed an afternoon of Coca Cola, snacks, and good conversation.  ....A Blessed Day, Indeed!