"And they sang a new song, saying, 'Worthy are You to take the scroll and to open its seals, for You were slain, and by Your blood You ransomed people for God from every tribe and language and people and nation, and You have made them a kingdom and priest to our God, and they shall reign on the earth.' Then I looked, and heard around the throne and the living creatures and the elders the voice of many angels, numbering myriads of triads and thousands of thousands, saying, with a loud voice, 'Worthy is the Lamb who was slain, to receive power and wealth and wisdom and might and honor and glory and blessing!'"(Revelation 5:9-12).
What a week of vacation - staying here close to home, fellowshipping with long time missionary friends who spent 31 years in Africa (being in Zimbabwe with us part of the time we were there).
First, we witnessed two Muslim couples being baptized because of their faith in Christ at a church on Sunday morning. Then, on Sunday evening we worshipped with the most diverse congregation ethnically we have ever been a part of, with the Dallas Baptist Association of churches. Our association of churches has over 71 different language groups worshipping every Lord's Day. The world has come to us. We sang praise in several different languages on Sunday evening with this diverse congregation, and at one point during the chorus of "How Great Thou Art" were encouraged by the worship leader to sing in our own heart language. What a glorious sound of many different languages giving praise to our Lord. It reminded me of the Revelation passage quoted above.
It also reminded me that again, it is not about music style, language, particular culture, or even what I might be comfortable with at the moment. It is about the ransomed people of God joining around His throne and singing, "Worthy is the Lamb"! After those experiences on Sunday, we have spent the last three days in African Markets and Restaurants visiting and fellowshipping with our African brothers and sisters. Almost feels as if we spent our vacation in Africa and didn't even have to leave home. Glory, Honor, and Blessing be to our wonderful Lord! Pray for our Mission's Musical "Into all the World" to be presented in our church on November 13 during each of the three morning services!!! mjm
