Scripture Reference-Ephesians 4:1-6
Yesterday, I rushed to get to worship service at my church on time. It was my expectation and goal to make it there by at least 11:00a.m.
But as fortune would have it, and though my intentions were completely honorable, I just could not meet that expectation. I fervently desired to be among the congregation and fellow worshippers lifting up hands and praising God in unison.
I scanned the clock, it was already 11:00 by the time I showered,put on my clothes and ate a small breakfast. No way I am going to make it to church in time enough even for the sermon, I thought to myself. Then I started a quick review in my mind of all the churches nearby that I could attend instead. I had been invited to attend a neighborhood church a few days earlier by a minister who told me she was preaching. I strongly considered that possibility. Then, my old home church is less than 10 minutes away. But their service began at 10:00 am.
Not being a denominational snob as I have both preached and attended various churches over the years from Baptist, Interdenominational, Unity, Methodist, Presbyterian, Episcopal to Catholic, Old St. Mary's quickly came to mind. As an occasional visitor there over the years, I knew their Mass started at 12noon and I had plenty of time to make it there for the service. Also, I always enjoy the wonderful aroma of that Frankincense and myrrh incense that wafts through the air during worship...very soothing and relaxing.
Turns out my visit was a real treat. The word was delivered by the Pastor who I later learned was from Tanzania. I was amazed,really.
After service, I was blessed with a homemade banana split at the ice cream social and the opportunity to attend a real live Swahili Mass. No English spoken or read. All attendees hailed from African countries... I praised God for his wondrous guidance through the Holy Ghost which transcends all human made religious and denominational boundaries. Although I could not make my originally intended destination, God had another plan for me that worked out just fine.
As a real trivia plus while in conversation with the Pastor, I also learned that Mt. Killiamanjaro is in Tanzania, not Kenya,
as most people have been led to believe.
Note:
Cross reference my essay "Spartan Village..." in which I make reference to traveling to my "Swahili" class
at MSU.
