Open doors. Open hearts

Church, Igreja, Holy Place, House of the Lord, Fellowship Center, Ecclesia, Meeting Place, Worship Center……whatever you choose to call it, the church is meant to be a place to give praise to our Savior, learn about him, encourage the Body of Believers, and bring people into intimate relationship with the One True God. Our team had the honor to open another church in a remote village in the district of Dondo. It was amazing. We were welcomed by the singing and dancing of beautiful Mozambican people. The joy that was in the air can only be explained by the workings of the Holy Spirit. The church was not fancy. The mud walls were still trying to dry. Of course, this task was made difficult by the rain that was falling from grey sky. The roof was grass, but had the coverage of a big mango tree. And where the opening to the church was, was strategically placed white cloth. It was all so beautiful. The thing that made it the most beautiful was an almost tangible hunger from people to know and hear the Word of God. As we celebrated and preached, ears and hearts were opened. Dancing and singing turned into pure and utter worship for the Lord. Selfless offering were given and pastors set the example of what it meant to serve humbly. After some preaching outside under the mango tree, the ribbon was cut! Then we all went inside and the dancing was more vigorous, the singing was louder, and the Holy Spirit was moving more powerfully. We had the honor to stand on fresh ground, pray and give this land, this church, and this village to the Lord. Oh my….it was awesome! Our prayer as a team is that the rain was just a symbol of the Lord’s provision and Presence coming from Heaven. The mango tree that cascaded over the roof is just an earthly example of how He is going to cover and protect this church and the people who come worship Him in it. Our prayer is that as we open doors to new churches, that the Living God opens hearts to receive the precious gift of salvation.