Saturday Nights (1/1/2000)

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A wondrous thing happens in our community on Saturday nights.  Our little church in Lis Lis meets together with a sister church from Cerro Colorado.  One week they meet in Lis Lis, the next in Cerro Colorado.  The best way to describe what happens is kind of like a Christian variety show.  It is the highlight of the week, much like the barn dance probably was in The States 150 years ago.

 

The visiting church is in charge of music and the sermon, which is really a devotional, often prepared extemporaneously, as is the whole service.  The music leader starts with a few songs, then asks for specials.  Someone leads the group in their favorite song, recites a poem, or reads a portion of Scripture.  Some young people sing a special or two, maybe some older folks do too.  There is no time limit or schedule.  Talent is not a prerequisite.  Some of the presenters are downright off key, but no one seems to mind.

 

The music is lively, with all participating. Generally everyone stands who can.  Someone plays the keyboard, another the tambourine, another the guitar, and another the maracas.  Everyone else claps and sings along, swaying to the music, tapping their foot, and maybe both feet! (Now some may call this dancing, and it probably is, as was described in the Old Testament.  There is nothing sensual or sinful about it.  It is a pure expression of joy; joy at being a child of God, joy in being together as the body of Christ, and joy in being in the presence of the living Savior, Jesus Christ!)

 

When Scripture is read, everyone stands in respect for the Word of God.  The return of Christ is a favorite theme, much as it was with the slaves in the United States.  People so beaten down and dirt poor have much more to look forward to than those of us who are so comfortable materially that we are in no hurry for Jesus to return.  (Look into Liberation Theology when you get a chance!)

 

Even though I am usually tired by the time Saturday night roles around, and would probably prefer to stay home, I am always glad I went, coming home refreshed, energized, and joyful at having been with such wonderful folks, the Body of Christ.  I can’t help but believe that God also was pleased with the worship and joy of His humble people.

 

Dave Drozek with

 

Thoughts From Honduras

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