Zikomo= thank you…this is one of the only phrases that you can never go wrong with in Malawi. The language barrier makes ministry even more difficult, but our translators are helping us slowing, but surely learn simple phrases in Chichewa.
Today was our first full day of ministry! We've travelled to 3 different villages so far. In all three of those villages, the exact same thing happened as soon as we arrived: the villagers immediately went into their homes and brought out their benches, chairs and stools so that we were all comfortable. It really touched me that even though they have so little, they are willing to give and make sure their guests are comfortable.
Our translators then started some songs in chechewa before we started the message. We danced, sang, and prayed, this was personally my favorite part 🙂 Everyone was pretty timid at first, but eventually decided to dance with the mzungus (white people)! All of us then took turns sharing our testimonies and a verse that really spoke to us in each village. Even with having to translate every single word we said (I mean EVERYTHING), I'm pretty sure the crowds of people understood what we were trying to say about God and his love for us 🙂
For the few days (until Sunday), we will continue to visit these villages and encourage them to come to church (the first one they've ever had, btw) on Sunday! Our pastor, Harvey, has found a place for worship so my team and I will be leading worship on Sunday! I can't wait to see how many of the villagers actually come to the service.
Just keep my team in your prayers as we continue to minister and build a church community in these villages 🙂
ndimakukonda, Malawi!
(I love you, Malawi:))
