ministry morning

I was excited to once again be gathering with the women at the community widow’s centre, ready to worship with them and share words of encouragement.  We had not been there for quite some time, but they welcomed us warmly, remembering us.

I spoke about how big our God is, beyond our wildest imagination; His thoughts higher than ours, able to do all things. I wanted them to understand, I want myself to understand, how that same God, vast as He Is, has chosen to dwell in us. How can we not be humbled, brought low in wonder and praise?

My words were met with smiles, nods and “amens.” I was not expecting the words spoken after mine. One of the centre leaders explained to the women that this was a special day ordained by God, a day to open their hearts and share their struggles Why wait until they are alone at night to pour out tears on their pillows? We had come, and we would listen, we would care and we would pray.

One by one, the women came, trusting God to speak to us. One by one, with my heart broken, I held their trembling hands and listened, to them and to the Holy Spirit. Each one had a tale of frustration; with family, finances, health and more.  The kingdom of darkness is running wild, kicking hard, and creating disorder that was stealing the peace of all. We declared health, wholeness and victory. We asked in faith “Lord, glorify Your name.”

Our first home visit revealed the deeply embedded lack of proper medical care. We were greeted by a young mother, tightly holding a small girl child who looked no older than two. Her eyes would not focus and she didn’t respond to claps or whistles. She just passed her sixth birthday! Doctors at clinics and the hospital have examined her and have claimed that she is well, no problems. No exams are needed for us to recognise that this child is not well at all, indeed likely suffering with a variety of problems; not the least of these is her failure to develop normally. We prayed and suggested a consultation with a local ministry to the disabled. Perhaps working hand in hand the life of this little one and her mother will begin to thrive.

Just another Zambian morning, like so many others, filled with unanswered questions; but also drenched in an ever growing reliance on the only One Who answers all. Leaning hard on Him, is, I believe, the very best place to be.