God's Smile

As we neared our destination this morning beautiful mountains came in to view. One particularly stood out. Etched in it's rock face was what appeared to be a smiling mouth.

A cluster of chairs sat under a shaded tree as we entered the village of Ngala. These chairs were placed there for us. We had arrived and were now the villager's honored guests. Chiefs, widows and orphans had journeyed from neighboring villages to come hear what we had to tell them. It was humbling as the chief spoke, and asked that we please give to them all that we had to bring. As a team we knew that it was only with God's Spirit and love that anything deep and meaningful would be deposited into the people's hearts that awaited His message.

Formalities aside, the wooden chairs soon became empty as we sat amongst our new friends. As stories were told and songs of Jesus' love were sung, smiles became wider and voices rang in both English & Chichewa. Jesus was present in this rural village,27 km from Lilongwe.

The children & adults showed their enthusiasm as we pointed toward the open field and began our games! Soccer was clearly a sport the boys loved, and despite the frequent grazer (goats & cows!)that meandered on the field, the ball continued to be passed amongst the boys without hesitation.

The afternoon brought more welcomes as we met women and children that had gathered from various villages. Even before we got out of the van, women gathered around & sang in beautiful harmony. This was their way of greeting us as their guests. Along with telling stories, and singing we were also able to see the various IGA's (income generating activities) these widows were involved with. This included their gardens and hand-made wares.

As we said our good-byes and our van pulled away, I wondered a little more about that smiling mountain. Maybe it was God's reminder to us that He delighted in what happened that day. I imagined God with a great big grin as He looked down at all His children.

judith, for my amazing team