Sunday's surprises

Worship with the Christians at Mutala was “indescribable and passionate”, according to David, “loud, with incredible singing”, according to Sherry, “dramatic” for Mary Beth and highly emotional for me. Shepherd’s sermon on fellowship struck a chord, the singing always brings tears, and then being able to participate in the blessing of partnership between Southside Church of Christ and Mutala Church of Christ on the building project really filled my heart.

Other impressions included the men who knelt in prayer for a young man who confessed sins and asked for prayers of encouragement; the singing groups who presented music at the end of the service; and Ruhtt’s encouragement to the church for the way they have worked so hard to build the church building to almost the rafters in such a short time.

After lunch, Ruhtt took us to the Kalomo Hospital to visit the sick and give clothes to the children. The pitiful situation left quite an impression. The patients must bring their own blankets and sheets, but many of them did not even have a mattress to lay on. We met the clinic officer, Richard, who arranged for a nurse to come and explain what illness each of the children had, so we could pray specifically for them. Pneumonia, dehydration, snake bite, and poisoning, topped the list. We all felt disappointed that we had not brought more toddler and children clothing. We did not have anything to give the last boy who had a distended belly for an undetermined reason; the hospital staff was sending him to a larger hospital to have is condition investigated. The whole experience created unforgettable memories for each of us.

I experienced something today that I have never before experienced in Zambia -- it rained! Not sprinkled, not drizzled, but poured rain. The rainy season is usually finished by the end of March or first of April. When rains come too late, the maize is ruined. During the downpour this afternoon, people scrambled to cover the bags of maize with tarps.

We worshiped this evening with the church at Namwianga Mission. Mary Beth estimated there were 300 under the age of 30 and only 12-15 were white. Three young people were baptized in a trough near the guest house where we are staying. The crowd was so huge that we couldn’t get close, but Breanna managed to get a video. Shepherd reminded everyone that the angels in heaven are rejoicing.

It’s been another amazing day.