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REPORT ON THE VISIT TO MALAWI AND MOZAMBIQUE FROM
16TH – 27TH DECEMBER, 2006
BACKGROUND
The good news we read in the magazine that God has started His work
in establishing His church in Malawi and Mozambique was confirmed to
us by Bro. Michael Smith when he visited Nigeria. This news gave joy
to those of us who heard it and had often remembered them in prayer.
The desire to make contact and visit them subsequently became strong
in our midst. More over, we realized that it might not be possible
for Bro. Michael Smith, one of the pioneers of that work, to return
to the field soon on account of his health. This situation prompted
me to write to Bro. Smith who promptly supplied the address of Bro.
Failos Namaozongo, the pastor and the contact person for Malawi and
Mozambique congregations of the church. Our correspondence was thus
facilitated at about the middle of the year, 2006. I wrote
expressing delight on their stand for Christ and the hoped that we
would meet one day. They on their part also wrote to inform Bro.
Michael Smith about my letter.
A plan to visit them was then initiated and it came through by the
grace of God. It began with a letter of invitation sent to me,
requesting that I should visit in the month of November. I realized
that it would be difficult to respond to the request immediately as
we were already in November and have programmed ourselves (the local
congregation) for a crusade at about the middle of the month. But
the brethren had to pray for God to have His way. We were earlier
advised that as rains begin in Malawi in December, it was not going
to be an ideal period for the visit. Suggestion was therefore put
forward to fix the trip in the year 2007. However, on further
enquiries, we were told that it would not be too bad to visit within
the month. With this encouraging assurance, I set my mind for
December and began to make preparations against the second week.
INITIAL DIFFICULTIES AND GOD’S INTERVENTION AT EACH POINT:
§ Obtainment of visa
Records available to us had indicated that Malawi has no embassy in
Nigeria. This situation readily posed difficulties for me in
obtaining visa. Our search through the internet to get information
on how to go about it was also futile, except for the hint that
Nigerians entering that country must hold visa. While in this
difficulty, Bro. Michael Smith, who had been contacted earlier,
wrote to intimate me that the Malawi Embassy in the US had assured
that the visa could be obtained at the point of entry into the
country. He therefore advised me not to worry about it any longer
but to proceed with arrangement for the trip as soon as I could,
assuring that he would send the funds once I came up with the
estimate.
With this relieving information I planned to leave Port Harcourt for
Lagos in the afternoon of Sunday 10th December via Benin. This was
to enable me arrive Lagos early on Monday 11th to begin arrangement
for the travel.
§ Estimate for the trip
Another difficulty was how I could make an accurate estimate for the
trip. However, with the cost of ticket from Lagos to Lilongwe
obtained through a travel agency here in Port Harcourt, I forwarded
an estimated amount of $2000 amidst fear and doubt to Bro. Michael
Smith who had earlier indicated that the trip would be sponsored
from the African mission fund. In a matter of days, he sent me
$2200. This development brought joy and assurance to us that God,
having approved of the journey, has provided the necessary funds to
enable me embark on the trip to Malawi. Thanks were gladly offered
to Him by the brethren for this positive development.
Following my request, the church in Port Harcourt committed me into
the grace and power of God after the service where I had taught on
what it means to be “the temple of God”. The prayer was offered with
elders laying hands on me for my protection, safety and fruitful
works with tears rolling down the cheeks of some. With that
confidence, even though my health had remained consistently poor for
some three or four weeks, I left Port Harcourt for Benin by faith
late in the afternoon.
Bros. Peter Nwosu and Emmanuel Imoni, all of Benin, being contacted
on Phone had waited for me into the night at the motor Park in order
to pick me up to the residence of the latter. There was joy and
thanks giving for my self arrival. Bro. Nwosu had decided to remain
with us through the night. So we had prayer together for the trip.
The following morning after an intensive prayer once again, both
took me in Bro. Imoni’s car to one of the many motor parks that
operates motor transport services on the Benin - Lagos route.
I arrived Lagos at about noon and went straight to the residence of
Bro. Okechukwu Odili. As soon as I dropped my bag, I headed for the
office of Kenya Airways on Victoria Island in Lagos amidst their
usual chaotic traffic hold ups that used to bedevil major routes of
the city.
I got to the office and was so thankful to God that I met them
during business hours. The ticket officer who attended to me had, on
enquiry, confirmed the earlier information and assured me that the
visa for Malawi could be obtained at Lilongwe Airport. As such, he
said, I should not worry but to proceed with the arrangement for the
ticket. This further gladdened my heart and I was thankful to God.
On flight arrangement, he told me that direct flights from Lagos to
Lilongwe were scheduled for Tuesdays and Fridays only for each week.
On other days, he said, connecting flight would be from Nairobi to
Lilongwe only on the following days. Regarding my leaving Port
Harcourt on Sunday afternoon as God’s divine direction to enable me
conclude transaction on Monday in Lagos, I changed my mind to take
the Tuesday night’s flight. Earlier, I had thought of resting on
Tuesday before embarking on the trip on Wednesday. Money was
therefore drawn immediately and the ticket obtained to get ready for
the night flight. Not conversant with air travels (I had flown out
of the country only once in my life and that was in 1989 to Bulgaria
on UNIDO sponsored workshop.) I asked some relevant questions and I
was clarified. Finally I was advised to be at the Airport early for
necessary formalities. The flight time was written on one of the
papers for me by hand before I left the office.
AT THE AIRPORT
It dawned on me later that the Airport offices of the Airways has
their own authority and seemed to have a final say. To beat the
usual Lagos traffic jam, Bro. Chinedu Damien Uba and I left the
house early to the Airport. I was among the first 10 passengers to
be on the queue for the issuance of boarding pass. But the issue of
visa now surfaced. All the officials, including the boss in the
office, maintained that I could not have traveled without visa and
advised me to get in touch with my host if possible for the
obtainment of a letter of invitation to be endorsed by the chief
immigration officer, assuring them that on getting to the airport at
Malawi, I would be issued with visa. He affirmed that the earlier
information was wrong and misleading. The necessary penalty to be
paid by any airline in contravention was spelt out to me to indicate
to me the seriousness of my case. We left the Airport in the night
paralyzed. I called on Bro. Smith with a view to informing him of my
predicament right there. In his absence, his wife responded,
assuring that they were going to assist as soon as he returned from
his missionary trip.
The following morning I rushed to the Kenya Airways office on
Victoria Island in the company of Bro. Chinedu to complain of what I
went through at the Airport. My case was referred to the sales
executive officer who went through their information system and
admitted that I was given a wrong information by the office, that I
could not have traveled to Malawi without visa as stipulated for
Nigerian citizens traveling to that country. She then suggested that
I should reach my host in Malawi immediately for the invitation
letter on which the immigration authorities would endorse, assuring
that visa would be issued on arrival. This she added could be faxed
to me to enable me travel within the week. Apologizing for the
troubles I had gone through, she gave me her phone number before we
left the office.
We began to think on how to contact the brethren with the phone
number that was given to me. Our earlier calls failed to go through.
We then agreed to stopover at the telecommunications office to ask
for Malawi code which we felt might have been our problem. The
building was under renovation by the new company which bought over
the assets of Nitel. A security personnel had already dismissed us
at the entrance, saying that such services no longer exist there. He
rather directed us to some where back on Victoria Island. We
considered this option as difficult and thought of an easier step.
God came to our rescue again. As we were stepping out we met another
security man who took us into the building and introduced us to a
lady in one of the offices. The kind lady left the job on hand, made
a call through and got Malawi international code number for us. She
went further by calling the number and got Bro. Master Gusto on line
to our joy. He though I was already in Malawi but was surprised that
I was still in Nigeria. We knew clearly that it was God who touched
the heart of the lady to show us that kindness and so we gave Him
all the praise.
We told him of the difficulties we were having and instructed him on
what to do as we were advised.
On the other hand, Bro. Michael Smith had been kept restlessly busy.
Several correspondence were made between us through electronic
mails, some days twice, and by phone calls on the visa issue.
He requested for my particulars which were scanned and sent to him
promptly. With these documents, Bro. Smith was able to secure a
letter from the Ambassador of Malawi in the US, requesting the
immigration at the Lilongwe Airport to issue me visa on arrival
there. This letter was scanned and sent to me through e-mail which I
received in the evening of Thursday the 14th December with joyful
thanks to God. Four days had already been spent in Lagos on the visa
problem. Knowing that some amount of money has been spent on this
issue, Bro. Smith sent additional $400, bringing the total to $2600
and was received on Friday morning
Early the following morning, I left my residence at Ajegunle to the
Airways office on Victoria Island again with the letter from the
Ambassador. The salesman who had been dealing with me read the
letter and give it validity. I asked him if my ticket could be
up-dated but he replied that it was still valid and that I should
take it to the Airport. The sales executive officer was not
available to make her comments which I strongly desired she should
do. I waited a while, but realizing the traffic problems and that
would
be against me if I waited any longer, I decided to return home to
prepare for the Airport.
BACK AT THE AIRPORT
Bro. Chinedu Uba had joined me again and together we left for the
Airport after lunch. The letter from the Ambassador, beautifully
written on official paper was presented with confidence to Kenya
Airways officials. To our surprise and dismay, they turned it down,
saying that I had not followed their instructions properly; that
they wanted a letter endorsed by the immigration authorities of
Malawi, assuring them that, I would have no problems if their
aircraft carried me to Malawi. They repeated to us the implications
and the attendant penalties for contravening the law. Every appeal
to persuade them failed. At this point I insisted to see their head.
I was taken to his office while Chinedu waited with my bag at the
check in counter. He read through the letter and began to give a
more indept analysis of every sentence the letter contained. His
verdict was that the letter did not meet their requirement as it was
only a request from the Ambassador. He queried how I could get the
letter from the Ambassador in the US while I was not resident in
America, and why the letter was not carrying the official stamp of
the Embassy. He repeated the risk for any one attempting to check me
in to board the aircraft. My heart flew to heaven once again. I had
to explain my mission again, and that failure to travel within the
week, would amount to disappointing the Christian audience who have
been expecting me since November. I added that in as much as I know
that visa is one of the most valid documents to travel abroad with,
the current problem had arisen from the fact that Malawi has no
Embassy in Nigeria. Otherwise, I said, visa would have been obtained
in advance before the traveling date. I explained that it was my
Christian associates in the US, who are the sponsors of the trip
that approached the Malawian Embassy there for the request document.
God touched the heart of this officer. In the midst of maintaining
the official position of the airways and while still arguing that
the letter fell short of the required assurance, etc, he added that
in recognition of my person he would allow me travel. He then
instructed me to go for my boarding pass. I wondered and said to
myself! What did he see in me that could be more dependable or
assuring than that authoritative letter from the Ambassador. Praise
be to God who we know made it happened that way to His glory! My
heart was lifted up joyfully. But little did I know that the joy
would be aborted soon.
The officials in charge of boarding pass were now ready to attend to
me, having been instructed to honour the letter from the Ambassador.
But they soon discovered that I have been scheduled to fly on
Tuesday 19th December. Their instruction to me therefore was to wait
till the following week. My heart melted once more. When I insisted
why I must not fly that night, they asked me to see the officer in
charge of reservation. I met a crowd around the lady who inspite of
that gave me attention. But in her response to my complain she
concurred with the officers who had earlier told me to wait till
next week. Furthermore, she said the aircraft had been fully booked
and that there was no way out for me. In a disparate mood, called
the sales executive officer of the Kenya airways to report to her my
ordeal with the officials at the airport and how I felt disappointed
with the out come of my transaction with her office. After
expressing displeasure over the matter, she requested to talk to the
reservation lady, Susan by name through my phone. She on her part
complained of how the officers in her office were creating more
problems for her. However, she promised her colleague that she would
try her best to help me out. It was clear that she was not happy but
asked me to wait until she was through with the crowd. And so I
waited patiently for nearly two hours in her office and at last
indicated to her that I was still waiting as the crowd started to
build up once and again. She requested me to remain calm, that she
had not forgotten me At last she turned to me to acknowledge my
seriousness how I had waited patiently and as such would assist me
to fly that night. Finally she collected my ticket, got it
revalidated and asked me to go back for my boarding pass with Bro.
Chinedu who come into the office and had waited all the time became
happy along with me. We were so thankful to God for the wonderful
way He had intervened to make my traveling possible that night. We
saw God standing by us at every difficult point, electing someone to
do His pleasure to prove His power and glory. Praise be to His
exalted name!
The rigor I went through had given me stress. So while waiting for
the flight scheduled for 11pm, I began to have severe headache. I
started calling on God to offer me his touch of healing. The ache
persisted until I boarded the plane. With my hands sometimes on my
head, I called on the Lord steadfastly. When he took away the ache I
didn’t know. Not only the head was healed, but the entire body so
much that through out my stay in Malawi, I did not feel any sickness
in my body until I returned to Nigeria. Glory be to God!
It became clear to us that the Lord had approved of the trip, but
had allowed the difficulties we had encountered to serve as a “trial
of faith” to teach on what it means to depend on Him
LEAVING NIGERIA
We landed at Jomo Kenyatta International airport in Nairobi at about
6:30am local time. Flight to Malawi was delayed till 10am. On
arrival at the Kamuzu Banda International Airport at Lilongwe, the
capital of Malawi in the afternoon; I went through the immigration
and security checks with least difficulties. The Ambassador’s letter
was tendered and the visa that generated so much of problems for me
in Lagos was issued to me with ease.
Air Malawi had a scheduled flight to Blantye by 4pm. Flight ticked
was obtained early. Call was made through to Bro Master Gusto with
the help of a lady staff in the budget department of the airways. He
complained of the time being late but promised to try to come with a
vehicle to pick me up at the Blantyre Airport.
The plane landed the airport at about 4:25pm but the brethren had
not arrived from Chiringa. A staff at the airport helped one with a
call again. The reply according to the man was that, they were
coming. Night had fallen and they were not in sight. I was now alone
with the airport security staff. They were friendly and became
concerned. One of them had offered to make a call for me again if I
could buy him credit card. He called and they replied that they were
getting nearer, so I was told. Little did I know the difficulties
Bros. Failos and Master were going through. Eventually, they arrived
something close to 9pm. We were all filled with joy for meeting and
expressed our thanks to God. They began to narrate how difficult it
was for them to get a car on hire because of the remoteness of the
place. This is in addition to bad road that slow down their
movement. They declared that we could not return to Chiringa that
night due to the condition of the roads. After showing appreciation
to the security staff, one of them took us to a nearby Hotel for our
lodging.
We started our business with logistics arrangement here. It was
suggested to me that since getting motor vehicle at the village is
most difficult and expensive if found, there was need to arrange to
hire one at Blantyre before returning. When I asked of the hire cost
of the one they came with, they told me it was k12, 000.
( Kwacha), nearly a $100. I began to imagine how the situation would
look like as they repeated the need to arrange for a car to replace
the one they came with right at Blantyre. At a point I suggested to
them that we would pray about the matter as it was difficult for me
to take a decision. This I did along with other cases for God’s
grace and direction.
Very early in the morning, at about 5am, by which time the day had
already been broken over here, we left for Chiringa. Just as we were
about leaving the town, the issue came up again and I asked if the
owner of the car would not agree to hire it to us. They said they
were not sure and besides it might be expensive. That was the fear
and they were right. But I suggested for us to try him, adding that
it would be betted we get one in the village than getting one at
Blantyre, which I feared might commit us into paying for the car
daily and taking care of the driver. The owner was approached at
home by the brethren who readily offered it to us for k4000 for any
day we use it. It was a surprise to the brethren, but the Lord made
it so, for which we were thankful to Him. This eventually became our
method of approaching matters with some difficulties -
Arrival at Chiringa
At the outskirts of Blantyre, we swerved right into an untarred
road. From that point till Chiringa we went through gallops formed
by rocks on the road. We got to the house arranged for me to stay in
Chiringa, about a Kilometre away from Msikita village where the
chapel is situated. We rushed through our breakfast, made of bread
and tea and left for the chapel without minding to take our bath.
Seeing the car afar, a crowd had gathered a round to welcome us.
What I saw was a surprise to me. When we stepped into the chapel, a
larger crowd had been seated waiting for us. I could hardly believe
my eyes. I began to wonder what to do to impress such a gathering in
a strange land with the word of God. Besides, I must pass my message
across through an interpreter. I went on my knees to God in an inner
room while allowing the crowd to settle down.
The time was about 10am, when the service began with songs of praise
to God. This was followed with a message the Lord had given me
“GOD’S LOVE FOR ALL PEOPLE”. I was inspired and persuaded that it
was God’s love that drove Bros. Bob Sallee and Michael Smith
together with Sis Karen through the cities to that remote area to
find a people whom he had prepared for Himself to be blessed with
salvation, the most precious gift for man. Passages were: Acts 17:
26, 27- talking about God creating all people of all nations of one
blood so that all might seek Him, assuring that all who do so would
find Him as He is not far from anybody. Reference was also made to
Gen. 1:26, 27 – God creating all men in His image and likeness; His
re-creation of man through the blood of His son Jesus Christ whose
sacrifice made once and for all have saved man to have part in the
true image of God (Eph. 4;24), Acts 10;34 and 35 were also quoted to
prove God’s love for all man without discrimination in His effort to
save any one willing to walk in His fear in every nation. They were
encouraged to count themselves among those blessed in a vast world
with many without Christ. Finally altar call was made for those
seeking Christ to come out for prayer. The response was over
whelming. The fellowship ended with prayer offered for the entire
congregation after the altar call. It was clear that many souls had
been awakened to their joy and to the glory of God.
PREPRATORY MEETING FOR MINISTERS MEETING
Bros. Failos and Master had relocated to the two rooms apartment
secured for me to keep my company. This gave us the opportunity of
discussing regularly. In the evening another major issue was brought
forward for discussion. Ministers were to turn up for a meeting
scheduled for Saturday 23rd December. This means adequate
preparation had to be made for their entertainment on that day and a
larger number of brethren for combined service on Sunday. The
requirements were listed out for cost estimate.
It ran like this:
1. 10 bags of maize, their staple food.
2. 2 number of goats for ministers’ entertainment. T
3. 1 number of cow for the entertainment of brethren for combine
fellowship on Sunday.
The total, not including ingredient, was over K60,000.00 (over
$400). By this time I was having about $550. I was to settle the
bills for the hired car, and run other expenses. In as much as I
welcome the idea as good and the sacrifice worth making in the
interest of the souls, I found myself handicapped. I told them that
amount was not budgeted for in my estimate for the trip, but added
that if the items could be cut down to take between $200 to $250, I
could accommodate it. But they replied that the number was going to
be so large that they fear the estimated amount might not be enough
for the entertainment of the visitors. They pressed forward their
case by adding that Bro. Michael Smith had provided them more for
their entertainment in the past than what they were estimating.
During his visit they said, soft drinks were added and were served
twice during the meeting. I was ill prepared for a worthy cause
because I had no idea, I told them and expressed my regret for my
inability to meet the requirement. Bro. Master then suggested
calling on Bro. Smith to come to the rescue. I was not quite
comfortable with the idea but they pressed, saying that he was
conversant with the issue on ground, assuring me that he would be
willing to help. We agreed and purchased a recharge card for a call
to be made latter in the evening. The attempt was made but till late
in the night the call did not go through. Suggestion was then made
for us to pray about it as we did before. Master repeated the
following morning and the call went through to our joy. The sum of
$450 was promised, for which they traveled to Blantyre early Tuesday
morning and returned with the money in the afternoon. This was
considered as the second problem solved through prayer. When
eventually the crowd came, it became clear to me that the event was
under estimated. I had to supplement for the cost of some extra bags
of maize.
MONDAY: 18TH DECEMBER, 2006 – COMMENCEMENT OF VISIT
Break fast had been served Bro. Failos had to assign himself to go
to Phalombe, the district headquarters, to obtain police permit for
our travel to Mozambique on Wednesday. The responsibility of
visiting the congregations scheduled for the day was therefore
placed on Bros. Master, Liston and myself.
(1) Visit to Machemba
Our first place of visit was Machemba. Brethren from four
congregations made up of Machemba, Thurumwa, Komihera and Gwamba
around the Mulange Mountain had gathered here waiting for us. After
joyful songs of praise, a message was given: Continuing in His word
to be His disciples.
Text taken from John 8:31 – the importance of those who have
believed in Christ to continue in His word to be truly His disciples
was stressed. Other references included John 1:1,-4 – the
preeminence of the Word of God (the Word - Christ Himself) and the
power in Him to give life to mankind was highlighted. John 6:63 –
Warning against fleshly deeds, we were made to see the need to
always accept all that Jesus Christ had spoken, that our spiritual
well being will depend on our submission to the life giving spirit
and power of His word. John 14:15 – to show our love for the one who
died to save us, by obeying His commandments – to be focused and
remaining faithful to Him by keeping His words, doing what he says
we should do. The message was rounded up with Paul’s word recorded
in Rom.1:16,17 – the gospel being the power of God unto salvation to
every one that believes should be obeyed and maintained joyfully and
that the just – the person who maintains right standing with God
must live by the faith of the gospel.
(2) Visit to Mandari
Brethren from Mandari and Chiparoni congregations had gathered here
for our fellowship. A reasonable number of people who were waiting
burst into songs of praise as we arrived. A message was taken from
Matt 4:16 to share with them. It was titled: “Jesus the light
giver”. Emphasis was placed on how the presence of Jesus brings
spiritual light to the people who had remained in darkness (sinful
life in all form) and to enable them live a righteous life with God.
That since the life of sin makes a person a slave to all evil works
and would eventually throw him to hell, all were enjoined to pay
heed to the warning of Christ as recorded in verse 17, employing all
to repent (to turn away from all the sinful ways.)
The story of Zacchaeus was told as an illustration of the condition
of the heart when under the influence and power of darkness, and
what it would turn out to be when Christ the light comes in to rule
that heart. LK19:8-10 Having Jesus they were told, means having a
life that will shine forth as light which could not be overthrown by
the power of darkness. John 1:4,5 was quoted to give direction on
this important matter. Many works of darkness abounding in our
society, particularly in Africa were mentioned. They were therefore
encouraged to remain in the light Jesus Christ had given to them in
their land so that no power of darkness would be a threat to them.
On a happy note, we prayed, committing the people unto the power of
His word and grace.
(3) Visit to Matekenya
Two congregations had waited for us here at Matekenya for our
combine fellowship. This is so because of the rains which made
accessibility to some of the congregations in the area difficult.
Incidentally we met the brethren in a funeral gathering in a home
near the chapel. They all left the scene to the chapel seeing us,
but still putting on mournful look. Having assembled, we enquired
and were told that the person was not a member of the church. After
expression of condolence over the bereavement which had coincided
with our visit, I delivered a message which the Lord gave me on the
spot to comfort all souls. “Jesus the resurrection from death” was
the topic. 1Thess. 4:13 – 18 was quoted and shared out – the
assurance of life for those who die in Jesus Christ was stressed.
His comforting word as recorded in John 11:25 was also taken as
reference – encouraging them to remain focused on Christ, that we
would all die but for those in Christ, He would raised them back to
life again as He did to Lazarus in His mighty power. Those without
Christ were also warned to embrace him while they were alive. Gladly
these hitherto dull and sorrowful hearts came alive, putting up
cheerful faces. With joy the pastor began to express how gainful our
visit had been to them. There after he made a passionate appeal for
the roofing of their chapel with corrugated iron sheet. Through the
grace of God, we rounded up our tour for the day and returned to
Chiringa satisfied and happy in the Lord. We were thankful to God
that our visit had impacted positively on the lives of some people.
TUESDAY: 19/12/2006 – AT HOME
Bros. Failos and Master left for Blantyre as early as 3am in the
night for business transaction on behalf of the church. They were
able to return in the afternoon with the money ($450) changed to
their currency which Bro. Michael Smith sent for entertainment of
brethren. That gave me room for prayer and study at home. However,
later in the evening we had to study some tradition of the church
with reference to Corinthian Chapter eleven. Other scriptural
references were Isa. 61:10 and Rev. 19:8. The differences between
the first and these later scriptures were explained and understood
to the satisfaction of all of us.
WEDNESDAY: 20/12/06 – VISIT TO MOZABIQUE
We were subjected to “trial” at the Malawi/Mozambique border. God
gave us victory in the hand of the police at last and we drove to
Mozambique in our hired car. We met the brethren made up of six
congregations patiently waiting for us. Peter’s words in Acts
10:34,35 were recalled in my message on how “God is calling people
everywhere to himself. ” The story of Cornelius was told to draw our
attention to the issue. The scripture in Rom. 10:4 was recalled –
Jesus being the end of the law of righteousness to every one that
believes. The beauty of walking with God by faith was stressed with
reference to verses 6-8.. The story of the Samaritan woman meeting
with Jesus at the well as recorded in John 4:7 was also told. The
false worship of God adopted by the Samaritans and how Christ opened
their hearts to the true worship of God was also referred to in
message. God’s faithfulness in saving the woman as well as the
multitude from the city who came hearing Christ preaching His gospel
of salvation through repentance was also cited as an example. John
4:10, 14, 30, 39 – 42. They were enjoined to remain faithful to
Christ who had called them to have a share in His salvation offered
to the world. And that they should count themselves blessed for the
call of Christ that had reached them, which many they were told had
not been so privileged to hear.
The brethren expressed joy. The village head, Kamwendo Magreta, who
was in attendance joined in the expression of appreciation of our
visit and the message given. We had prayer for God to bless all of
them through His word which they had sacrificed their time to
receive with keen interest. We returned safely to Chiringa in the
evening under a heavy stormy rain. The policeman who had alleged
that we were carrying more local currency than the required K3,000
per person and threatened to charge us to court met us at the border
again. He regretted the delay he caused us when we told him how the
brethren had waited for us since the previous day.
THURSDAY: 21/12/06 – WITNESSING AT HOME
Bro. Failos was busy with arrangements so we could not travel out.
While at home, I got myself occupied by witnessing to people in
their houses. This was done in the company of Bro. Master in the
afternoon to some young people who had become friendly with us. A
young lady we met as we were passing in front of a store was wearing
a chain with the crucified Christ on the cross. After exchange of
pleasantries, I asked her what she was wearing had signified. She
smiled and explained. Then I said it was not enough to show Christ’s
crucifixion on the neck but in the heart. I added that we must
sorrowfully repent of our sins and live a life indicating that one
has been crucified to self. This brief but inspiring discussion
attracted some of her friends who came around. We then agreed to
meet by 4pm. We met and had useful discussions beginning from Gal
2:20 where the Lord taught us through Paul’s testimony what we were
talking about. They later admitted that, being Catholics they were
not permitted to read the Bible. But one of them borrowed a copy of
the Bible in their language from someone which enabled the three of
them read the scriptures themselves and indicated how they
understood the scripture as it was explained to them.
They were happy for the light and promised to fellowship with us on
Sunday. We prayed, committing them to God’s hand before leaving. (I
have since written to them, enclosing some tracts on the church for
their study and encouragement.) Others we met equally gave attention
to our witnessing which gave us joy and satisfaction for engaging
ourselves in the Lord’s business for the day.
At home in the evening, we had some useful discussion on the meaning
of some scriptures and questions on some observations. In addition,
I wanted to know from then whether the messages were understood and
was going well with their souls since I could only interact with
majority of them through an interpreter. It gave me much
encouragement when in their response, (both Failos and Master)
revealed to me the positive reaction of people to the messages. That
right from the first fellowship, they have been expressing joy
heartily, confessing that the scriptures have been made clear to
them and have had a better understanding of the gospel. They said
that as a confirmation of what they were saying I could notice the
lively response to questions thrown to them. (Of course question
were asked at random to test their understanding of the messages.)
Bro. Failos added that even brethren from Mozambrique who came to
him, he said, were saying the same thing and asking when I would be
coming again. Both were unanimous in concluding that the messages
were directed at the heart which, they said, was good for every
individual. That they added, would help everyone in judging
themselves whether they were right with God without someone else
doing so for them.
You can guess as a minister in far and strange countries, how happy
and thankful to God I must be, knowing that He is enabling me to
pass His Precious Words through the help of the Holy Spirit to a
people for their spiritual renewal. It caused me to glorify God and
to ask for more of His grace.
FRIDAY: 22/12/2006 - VISIT TO KACHINGWE
Bros. Failos, Master and I have taken off in the morning to
Kachingwe. Here we met brethren from congregations comprising
Kachingwe, Nachombe and Chikara.
After the usual singing of praises the message followed. “Salvation
the eternal gift of God” was the topic. Text Rom 6:23 – God’s gift
for a people sentenced to death by the works of sin through the
flesh now to gain eternal life through Christ by those who believe
on Him. Lk 16:25 – the story of the rich man who did not know God,
and Lazarus the beggar was narrated as an illustration. As a reward
for believing in God and living a God fearing life, Lazarus was
found in paradise enjoying the comfort from God, while the rich man
was rewarded with death and thrown into hell, the people were told.
Worse still, that his plea for mercy for himself and salvation for
his brothers was not granted as it was too late then. Realizing that
the wages (reward) for sin remains death, everybody was warned to
forsake the several ways of sin and embrace Christ who would come in
to live their lives for them. John 10:9,10 - that Jesus as the door
came to save men and to give them a more abundant life, a life
beyond the realms of this present life. They were assured that
eternal life brought by Jesus would certainly be for those who give
their life to Him.
To be able to know their understanding of the message through the
interpreter, I asked if some one could come up with a testimony of
what Christ had done in their lives. One fairly old man got up and
began to testify of how God saved him and wonderfully changed his
life of drunkenness. When asked he said, he no longer drinks alcohol
and that God had destroyed their bad habit for him. A young man
followed with a testimony of how he had earlier lived his life with
many girlfriends, indulged in drunkenness and when confronted with
problems would go to herbalists. To our joy he admitted that, since
he accepted Christ his life had changed. I asked him if he had left
the girl friends and he said yes. Are you now married with a wife?
His response was yes. Is she here and if so where is your wife.? The
wife happily stood up and this increased my joy. Do you still go to
herbalists and he replied no more.
Another lady also testified of her experience since she gave her
life to Christ, taking away the habit of drinking alcoholic drinks
and healing of her physical body.
An altar call was made and five people came out including the young
man with the wonderful testimony. He wanted more grace from God to
be faithful to Him and to be healed of certain sickness. Others also
made request, seeking help from God ranging from healing of the
physical body to spiritual needs. They were prayed for accordingly.
The five are shown in a picture taken after the meeting. We were
much encouraged and full of praises to God.
We returned home to Chiringa after meeting with a very happy
brethren. Before we retired to the house, the purchase of the cow
for the entertainment on Sunday had been concluded.
SATURDAY: 23/12/2006 – MINISTER’S MEETING
Our study meeting embraced.
1. The church, the body of Christ
- Christ the foundation and head of the church. Texts: Matt 16:18,
1 Cor. 3:10,11, Eph. 2 19-22 and 4:15
- The church, the assembly of the saints. Texts: 1 Cor 1:2, Heb
12:22,23,Psa. 89:7
- Christ’s love for His church, His body, to serve as example to
believers. Texts: John 10:11, Ehp 5:25-27
- Mission of the church. Text: Matt 28:19
- Holiness, standard of the church. Texts: 2Cor 11:2, Eph 5:27 I pt
1:15.
2. Leadership of the church
- elders (pastors, evangelists, other workers/ ministers.) They must
be saved and called persons, bearing fruit of repentance. Texts Rom:
10:14,15
Matt 28:19, Acts 9:15, Gal 1:15, 16
- Behaviour to be example to the flock. Text I pt 5:3
- They are given power of the Holy Spirit. Texts: Act 1:18, Lk 24:49
- They are appointed by God to preach/teach. Text: Acts 20:28
- Moral character. Texts: I Tim 3:1-7, Titus 1:6,7
3. Mode of worship of the church
– spiritual worship. Texts:
John 4:22-24, Acts 17:24,25, Eph 5:19, Col 3:16
- Holy living enjoined. Texts: Lk 1:75, Heb 12:14
QUESTION AND ANSWER SESSION AFTER LUNCH BREAK
(1) Stephen marikubu from mazambique wanted to know more about the
Meaning of “Church of God”
A brother from Malawi (the name not recorded) wanted to know if
Jesus established church in His own time. If not when was the church
established.
These questions were answered to the satisfaction of the brethren
through the grace of God.
A brother in his comment supported the teaching that the use of
musical instrument was not the ideal mode of worship. He added that
it was not done in the early church and that what is being done is a
new invention of men.
Bro. Josin Chiran a minister from Mozambique at this point expressed
appreciation for my visit from Nigeria. His remarks were also full
of appreciation for Bro. Michael Smith who sent relief to them when
famine hit the two countries.
He listed problems confronting ministers in Malawi and Mozambigue
as:
- transportation difficulties.
Chapel with grass roofs
- leakages of chapel roofs every where during rains (except that of
Chiringa) made of iron roofing sheets.
- Famine on yearly basis.
- Orphans in some congregations due to the devastating war in
Mozambique.
Bro. Zuze Goliyati (Malawi) also spoke, thanking God for the growth
of the church in the country. Happy for the distribution of relief
materials such as blanket by oversea brethren through Michael Smith
some years ago but pleaded for more help. He also mentioned some
problems in some congregations as a result of the war. Though the
war, he said has been over, yet resettlement had been posing
difficulties to some people. Orphans still in some congregations as
a post-war problem. The lack of Bible and song books were also
mention. After this, we, had pray committing the studies at the
meeting and the problems enumerated into the able hands of God.
SUNDAY: 24/12/2006 - COMBINED FELLOWSHIP
The crowd was almost too much for the local Congregation to handle.
Food had not been thoroughly served on the entire congregation until
past 10am. therefore had to leave their food for the combined
service. Every available space in the chapel had been occupied,
making it difficult for the movement of people those not contained
had to hang around the chapel. After the usual opening songs and
prayer, group singing took the floor.
This was followed with the message” On bearing fruit worthy of
repentance”. Texts: Matt. 3:8,9. The emphasis was on how our lives
would confirm with the gospel of righteousness through repentance.
To achieve this goal one had to depend on Christ and this was
stressed in the message with reference to John 15:1,2, 4-10,12 and
Gal 5:22,23 the service joyfully came to a close after the Lord had
been through with us. Finally a group of young singers whose singing
inspired me much were requested to come forward for the recording of
their songs. They sang until the tape got exhausted. Then began
group singing again. A sisters group came singing joyfully to bid me
fare well, praying God to make it possible for us to meet again. I
responded by requesting them to pray about it.
MONDAY – 25/12/2006
At home on Christmas day we again had useful discussion on a number
of questions. Bro Master had asked: why the different days of
worship by Muslims, Sabbatharians and Christians on Fridays,
Saturdays and Sundays respectively? Explanation was given to the
question but not much on the Muslim Friday worship. I said,
considering the background of their religion’s which stand against
the Christian faith, it would not be of much interest to us to
discuss it but why the first day of the week (Sunday) became the day
of worship by the Christians was explained as a divine coincidence
and that it is biblical. The significance of the spiritual Sabbath
(rest, from labour) of self not rest for the day, was also explained
and admitted understood by the brethren,in the process.
The photographer who we had invited to take photographs at the
ministers’ meeting met us, showing interest in the discussion.
Though he admitted belonging to a denomination, he said, he enjoyed
the study on the church during the meeting. He asked to know more
and other question on other controversial issues such as 144,000
already chosen to inherit heaven. We again dwelt on the issues
through the scripture with every one paying rapt attention. At the
end of the deliberation he admitted receiving more light and agreed
with the scripture for which he was thankful and left happily.
TUESDAY 26/12/2006 TO ZOMBA DISTRICT VISIT TO BRATUWA
The first vehicle had we hired to run the trips developed fault not
quite long we had taken off to Zomba District early in the morning
to fellowship with the brethren in that area. We returned with our
hope dashed. We put –up courage and decided to make alternative
approach. We met the authorities of a certain wholesale company in
the neighbourhood for the hire of their four-wheel drive which they
use exclusively for their business. To our joy they agreed but
charged us k8000, which we considered high. Don’t rather than miss
the trip and have our brethren disappointed, we agreed. We left
before forenoon and were driven to Bratuwa. Brethren form Nkhata,
Thanavi, Nsema and Goweni congregations in Zomba district far from
Phalombe district had assembled here waiting for us. After the usual
joyful praises to the glory of God the gathering was addressed with
the word of God. The inspired message was, ‘the poor in spirit shall
inherit the kingdom of heaven” Texts: Matt 5:3- that those who see
themselves needy spiritually and seek help from God, He would bless
them and they would inherit the kingdom of heaven. Isa 66:2 – that
of fore most importance and regard by God are those with a poor and
contrite spirit, who would honour His word and be willing to do His
will humbly. Matt 5:6 – Those people, it was added, who would hunger
and thirst (have the longing and desire) after His righteousness,
that God would fill them up with divine blessings. With such words
aimed at encouraging them to continue to seek the right ways of God
which Christ has shown us and be sure of heaven as the Father’s re
ward for faithfulness, the fellowship came to a close with prayer.
2. VISIT TO LICHI
Leaving there, Bro. Failos, Master and I who constituted the team
were driven to Lichi. Here again we met brethren with unspeakable
joy which was expressed in their welcome mood they displayed. The
brethren gathered here were comprised of Lichi and Mpheta
congregations.
Message was “Jesus to save His people from their sins” Texts: Matt.
1:21 – This was to keep in memory the purpose for which Jesus was
born into the world. And that it would be more joyful for one to
receive and retain Jesus as one’s saviour than sharing any material
thing or gift no matter it’s value at Christmas. Isa 9:5,6 – showing
that Christ is a gift from God and should be personal to every body.
In addition, the many things Christ represents and the many gains we
would make through His help if we have received were highlighted.
Isa. 53:4 – 6 – the worthlessness of man struggling to carry his
burdens when Jesus, according to the prophesy, was ready to take
away their burdens and to give them peace and joy was stressed. All
were admonished to accept Christ and celebrate the new life of
Christ which all who believed in Him would experience. It was to the
joy of all of us that this fellowship also came to a close, brethren
showing keen interest and paying rapt attention to the word of God.
The man who drove the vehicle be-come interested and joined in the
fellowship with us. Prayer was offered committing the people and the
word into the hands of God. We were so glad and thankful to God that
inspite of the plan of our adversary the Lord enabled us to fulfil
His assignment for the day. He carried us on His feet and brought us
back home safely in the evening.
Brief Parting meeting
The sisters had prepared dinner and were waiting for our return.
Soon after they gathered to bid me farewell. Amid tears of joy we
exchanged pleasantries through Bro. Master. It gave me the
opportunity of expressing deep appreciation to them in a little way
for their sacrifice and care. Realising that if would be difficult
to meet up financially taking another vehicle on hire at K12000 to
Blamtyre, I suggested to them earlier to arrange with the lorry
drivers to book me. This had to be perfected that Tuesday evening.
We got ready for the night trip which usually by 3:00 am local time.
RETURNING TO NIGERIA
Bros. Failos and Master accompanied me for the trip. The owner of
the lorry was kind enough to reserve a seat for me in the drivers
cabin. All others, including Bro. Failos had to seat on top maize
bags and other goods conveyed to Blantyre. Missing the night trip
means missing out for the day. I had called Lilonqwe Airport earlier
for Flight confirmation and was told that Wednesday morning flight
had been scheduled for 8.25am local time. With bad roads we arrived
Blantyre around 7am. We took a Taxi from the motor park, arriving
the airport at about 8.10am. Booking was confirmed. Money was
quickly changed at the Airport to settle every outstanding bills and
some money for the brethren for their return journey. We bade
Farewell to each other. Soon after this was the announcement made
and I had to queue up with other passengers to board the aircraft.
By this time it was around 8.30. I was thankful to God that I was
able to meet up the flight to begin my return journey to Nigeria.
At Lilongwe I had to spend one night in the Hotel waiting for Kenya
airways flight scheduled for Nairobi the following day. At Nairobi I
spent one night again in the Hotel paid for by the Airways as a
transit passenger. It was all joy as I arrived Lagos safely on the
29th December. Leaving a region with rainfall to a region enveloped
with Hamattan, It made me glorify God for His design, giving
different weather at different times in different places that we
might know that He rules and made all things according to His
pleasure and to His glory.
I praise and glorify God for a blessed trip.
Bro. F. Naths-Igbanibo |
