UGANDA - August 12, 2012

                Worship…what does it look like to you?  I can guarantee that the worship you experience in the USA is nothing like what the team experienced today in Kamonkoli, Uganda.  The entire team was overwhelmed by the presence of the Holy Spirit throughout the entire service lasting 2.5 hours.  Scrunched in a pew with locals or sitting on the stage because there were not enough seats, it was like a huge party praising God.  There was a time of corporate prayer where all you could hear were the sincere prayers being lifted up throughout the church…men, women, youth, boys, and girls.  It was a precious sound, and I am sure the Lord delighted in it.  At another point in the service there was a song, which was like a prayer, and as I looked out at the faces of the ladies, it was a picture of pure worship.  Eyes closed, and in some cases faces covered by hands, it was as if they were alone with God, talking to Him and bearing their hearts before the throne.  The lives of these ladies have been full of struggles and many trials, which I am sure we cannot even comprehend, yet, they love and trust in the same God we do.  Their faith is all they have, and it is clearly evident how much they value their personal faith. 

                A highlight during worship was also the music presented by the choirs.  Hearing the sweet voices of the children raised with big smiles across their faces was a sight to behold.  The adult choir danced and sang, putting their all into leading the congregation in worship.  Pure joy is how I would describe this time, where trials and struggles can be left outside the doors of the church, and the people can focus on the God who loves and cares for them.  I can only imagine how this recharges their soul to go back out and bear the burdens they are faced with on a daily basis.

                Only two hours after church was over an adult Bible Study was held, and 43 attended.  As a lesson on Heaven was taught, many present were taking notes and recording the Scripture that was given.  They are thirsty for the Gospel and to learn more to grow in their faith.  At the same time, a youth Bible study was held, and one team member had a chance to talk with one of the teenagers who has many struggles in his personal life.  One of the biggest questions this teen had was how to deal with having one parent who is a Christian and one who is not.  He wanted to know how to be obedient to his parents but also to the Lord.  Again, the thirst for walking in Christ was clearly displayed through this teenager’s questions along with others who participated.

                Even though today was filled with worship and Bible study there were fun moments as well, like an impromptu water balloon fight with at least 25 kids in the compound yard.  The result was much laughter, many smiles, and some wet clothes all around.  Today was evidence that God is working here in Kamonkoli to draw more believers to Him.  We are all humbled by the opportunity to serve here.

ADULT CHOIR

CHILDREN'S CHOIR

LADIES AT CHURCH

WOMEN WORSHIP

PUPPET SHOW

PUPPET SHOW