Sunday, June 12, 2011

That Ain't no Frozen Chosen

Church this morning was absolutely wonderful. A friend from Scotland, Marcley, came at 9:30 to take us to Watoto Church. We drove around some rather bumpy roads for a bit, until we finally came upon the church. We pulled into the small parking lot and saw a large white tent set up in a field. As we made our way to the tent, people from the previous service were coming out. They were all so friendly and welcoming us with smiles and “hellos.” When we made our way inside, I was surprised to find that the church is quite contemporary and the people very modernized. We were a little early, and sat waiting for the service to begin.

Five people then went to the front of the church and began to lead the congregation in worship. The choir followed behind them dressed in beautiful, bright clothes. The women’s dresses were made of orange, blue, and yellow colors that hung to their ankles near the floor. The men wore a tunic-like shirt with the same colors. I think I may have a few new ideas for the choral robes at Trinity if anyone is up for it ;) At first I looked around and felt like there was hardly anyone there. Then the music began, and my heart soared. The sheer joy of these people when they worship is amazing. They had the drums going, a piano, the choir, a guitar, and five people singing. One of the women singing had only her third and pinky finger on her right hand. She was enthralled in her worship, and raised her hands high. Every now and then you would hear a sort of “tribal call” yell thrown out there. As we stood there clapping, singing, and somewhat dancing; it took everything in me to fight back the tears in my eyes. I was so moved by the joy and love of these people all the way over here in Uganda. Ha, sometimes I think it would do Trinity some good to get a little taste of the Ugandan worship. Their enthusiastic faith and optimistic approach to life does not revolve around the blessings of God or circumstantial things. Their joy is bound up in the heart of salvation and love of Christ. The service was more spiritual than I am generally used to, but it was nothing new to me, and I appreciated the environment. When worship was over, I looked around to see every seat in the area filled; it was packed out. I feel as though I’m absorbing so much more from these people than anything I would have to offer them. I already look forward to church next Sunday, and I am grateful to worship with these believers. The power of Christ across every nation and every tongue is beautiful to experience first hand. My heart is very moved by the greatness of God. Psalm 139 is ringing true in my mind as it says ‘where can I go, that You are not there?’ I feel honored to have been a part of the service this morning. The only bummer was turning around to see Faith, and have missed the opportunity to sit with her. But it was great seeing her after the service. I pleaded with her to humor us, and come visit sometime. Through some laughs and joking around I luckily talked her into coming by Dwelling Places tomorrow.

I’ve tried to upload some pictures, but I was unsuccessful and it takes up a lot of internet which we have to pay for. Emails take longer for me to get to as well. But I’ll eventually be able to respond. This is my best way of keeping up with the basics of what I am doing. Every email, prayer, and comment is encouraging. Adjusting to the people and way of life here has come rather easily. However, missing friends and family is harder to adjust to. Sometimes emails and encouraging words from home keep me going. Sorry for so many posts and writing a lot. But my church experience was one that I wanted to share.

4 comments:

  1. Louise' blog is like reading a novel - a very good one. I am amazed with her writing skills and ability to articulate her faith so well. I can't wait for her next posting. Claudia Fleming

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  2. Louise, I'm so encouraged and absolutely love reading your posts..Keep them coming:) Praying for you every day sweet friend! Love, Gray

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  3. I totally agree with changing out the choir robes!! I think all of us should/could/would enjoy spending time in a church where worship is different than ours and where we can see others glorifying the same God we worship. Love it!!

    We are in the middle of Arts and Sports camp and about a hundred kids are coming. It's such fun learning about first graders and what they are interested in.

    Love and prayers!

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  4. :D I love thinking about how pleased God is when His imperfect people worship Him, how the Holy Spirit makes our prayers right, and how none of us has a perfect handle on it. I look forward to the day when oceans and cultures no longer separate the body, and where sin no longer separates us from our Father.

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