Sunday at Zomba .... nearly overwhelming: “out-of-this-world” experience. Heavenly. So exhausted by it that I could hardly keep my eyes open during the evening meal! John and Carey were taken at 160kph from Blantyre to Zomba – if any of you know that road ... then you can imagine the feeling, Carey wondered if we might die today. I preached at Zomba central – and what a privilege it was. Hundreds of people listening attentively to the Word on the meaning and application of mercy and grace of Christ. Though sleep didn’t come the night before I felt greatly empowered to preach the gospel. Many people spoke about it afterwards. Then to a village prayer house (connected to Zomba) and preached again though this time interpreted by Colin. This village church celebrated Harvest thanksgiving. Found myself in tears singing “bringing in the sheaves” as lines of people came into the church with decorated bowls of maize on their heads and one by one tipping the maize on the floor at the front. The prayer of dedication for the harvest ... so earnest! We in the West take so many things for granted.
Official Zomba CCAP welcome lunch followed which was beautifully prepared, and of course, welcome speeches ending with my words of encouragement and thanks. Though tiring by now I had the presence of mind to recite the main points of the sermon again. When the lunch finished at 3 we were ushered to the youth group where I thought I was simply to give a greeting. However, it became obvious in the minutes prior that I was to give another full-on sermon. The leader said I could have an hour! I preached with great empowerment from Proverbs 30 for about 30 minutes. Energy flagging now! But what a privilege to meet these young people and encourage them from the Word.
Faithful travellers,
ReplyDeleteGreat to hear news of how the trip is progressing so far! We're praying for you all.
JPW - are you about to sneeze in that photo?? Looks like you'd need a mighty big hanky!! He he
God bless you all
God to see you and Colin together spreading the Word!
ReplyDeleteThanks Crash!!! No - I was working up a head of steam in Gospel preaching - is that allowed in a Presbyterian minister?
ReplyDeleteDon - yes, the partnership and bond in the gospel between Colin and me is as sweet and powerful as ever. For the last eight years there has not been 12 months go by in which we haven't stood side by side preaching the gospel of grace.
Zomba CCAP is full of faithful Christians and also, because it is an academic town, also full of men and women of influence. Pray for Colin's faithful witness to the Gospel. His ministry is taking root and blessing many people. Shirley is his great helper and faithful companion in this.