Monday, July 23, 2012

Malawi Update #9


July 23, 2012

The team spent the day in Kamoyo and had a great time. This was a typical day of village ministry: there was VBS, teaching and evangelism. But there was another project.

As we left Chiwoza we discovered that the little church there was in debt. They had purchased the land to build their church, but they still owed 17,000 Kwacha, which is really beyond their ability to pay without some help. It would be possible for the man who sold it to call the debt and take the land back. So the team decided to pay the debt. How much money? About $62.00! Not exactly going to break our bank…easily within our capacity. So, today a few went with the pastor to Chiwoza to settle accounts. Now their church is free and clear.

Today at VBS Emily and Hannah jumped in to help. They had a simply wonderful time working with the kids. Constance and Jessica had prepared a great lesson. In the afternoon Constance changed over and went out with Adam evangelizing hut-to-hut.

Steve and Allison also took part in the evangelistic visits. Allison had a large crowd gathered to listen to her, and Adam had a good number also. Many people prayed to receive Jesus. This was all in the next village over from Kamoyo, and they can easily walk to Kamoyo for church on Sundays.

I am no stranger to Kamoyo. Ten to twelve people sat in on the teaching sessions as I spoke on yielding ourselves to God, renewing our minds, and letting the Spirit control both our souls and our bodies. In the after noon there were great questions. The people are listening and engaged in the material. We even gave them some Bible verses for memorizing and helped them begin.  My interpreter today, was amazing.

Be assured, God is answering prayers for us on this trip. He is doing wonderful things here in Malawi. Tomorrow will be urban ministry, and in the afternoon we will say farewell to our interpreters. They have been such a blessing to us. Continue in prayer for us: we will spend some time debriefing at Lake Malawi Wednesday evening and Thursday morning, then leave for home Friday. Pray for continued safety and unity.

Parents of teens, I have good things to report about your daughters, who have done you proud.

Ray Smith