A Blessed Day

My second Sunday in Tanzania was different than the first but just as wonderful. We arrived at church once again as praise flowed down the street, but we were not late. Church had started early.

I was a bit disappointed that very little of the service was in English, but joy dissolved the language barrier. Right in front of me, Bebadetha led the hymns. Her face radiated with a million kilowatt smile as she closed her eyes, tilted back her head, and praised God with all of her being. Chills tingled down my back as I thanked God for this humble young woman's witness.

After the sermon, first-time visitors were asked to say a few words. Chester, a young man we had met walking home one dat last week, introduced himself.

Then Robinson arose and said he was visiting his wife while he awaited work in Kenya. Walking down the street, he was led into Angel House by the sound of praise. He gave his testimony and sang a song.

After church, I sought out Chester. He'd asked for a Bible ealier when we met, and I gave him the Gideon Bible Dad had given me before I left. His face glowed with gratitude. He promised to read and treasure it.

Not to be out-done, Robinson asked if I had a book in English he could borrow. I told him I would bring him Melody Beattie's Gratitude.

But the best was yet to come. Daniel, one of my patient Swahili tutors from Angel House, grabbed my hands and looked me straight in the eyes. His handsome young face was filled with excitement.
"I have decided to give my life to Jesus," he said. "I want to learn more about Him.". My heart burst with joy. "That is the best news ever," I told Daniel. "What would you like to know?"

For the time being, Daniel seemed happy just to bask in the joy of his salvation, but when I returned to the mission house for lunch, I grabbed a witness card my friend Yvonne had given me and wrote Jeremiah 29:11. Then I located Reubon Joel's 3 Simple Rules. I gave these to Daniel as soon as we returned to Angel House. I told him we could read it together, or we could discuss anything he didn't understand while he read it.
Daniel was so excited! "Santi! Santi!" He said, and theb went to his room, closed the door, and read. A while later, he asked me a question about the book and then returned to reading. Such a, eager student, a godly young man who will make a difference in this world. I am so thankful to have a part in his life.
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