Pastor Mike (the African Pastor Mike!) and Pastor Mandla were finally able to join the team again after having their car break down on the terrible roads of Swaziland. They were all glad to be together again.
After listening to many of the locals, it sure does seem like the struggles -- and joys -- of ministry life are universal! God uses imperfect people to do His work here on earth. So many similarities to life in the States, simply because all ministry deals with us fallen humans!
One additional struggle the church over there faces is that many churches are syncretistic, i.e., they take the beliefs of Christianity and simply add it to their other tribal rituals, including the incorporation of witch doctors! Please pray for the people of Mozambique and these other African nations that they would clearly hear and believe the simple Gospel -- that it is only through the death of Christ on the cross that we can be made right with God -- that we then respond in worship and submit to His leadership over our lives. The team broke into 3 groups and spent time prayer-walking with special emphasis on this.
Dan rapped for the folks a few nights ago. He wasn't sure if they liked it, but then the next night they asked for more! He also did a bit of extemporaneous rapping in front of a Nando's restaurant earlier in the trip and that seemed to go over very well, too. It seems like it's been a great blend of gifts within the team to offer different aspects of ministry.
The team was able to minister in two different schools today and one of the teachers at Jabula Primary School volunteered to begin working with Pastor Mike. They showed the Jesus Film for Children, blessed the kids and had a wonderful time with them.
After another service this evening, they will be leaving early in the morning to head over to Kruger National Game Reserve where they hope to see more of God's amazing creation and spend time in reflection with one another. They've had a wonderful time and are ready to come home! (and we're ready to receive them! ;-])