Hey! Karman here. Up front I want to admit that trips like this produce a whole lot of emotions in me - thoughts & feelings ranging from truly wonderful through truly terrible. However, when hanging out with Nigerians in Isoko Land, you can't help but notice their JOY.
Despite the horrible poverty all around, they generally have sunny dispositions. That much might be cultural. But when Jesus becomes their source of joy, oh man look out! During praise & worship times the crusade stage becomes a crazy blur of color & movement.
We see dignified bishops in fancy robes along with leaders of denominations and very large churches... Dancing with the joy & abandon of children!! I'm talkin' smiling, giggling, booty wigglin' dancing! It doesn't look holy, it looks like a wedding (but better than a white wedding). Same goes for the enthusiastic crowd. The Joy of God's presence, joy of salvation is so simple and uncomplicated. It's here in the moment. It's a gift with a message for me: Joy from Above Is!!! It just is.
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Wow, how very cool Karman! I appreciate hearing that. Sometimes we, here in America, actually try not to smile sometimes like when we are being recognized or something...we are not as open in general...would be freeing to be more open probably...and yeah, with Jesus, look out is right! Keep keeping us updated! Be happy! I keep saying that because that's what keeps coming to mind when I pray for you guys...we love you! m and c
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