Worship is my favorite. I’ve discovered that it is completely universal in the most beautiful way.
I came on the World Race hoping to bring God’s kingdom down to earth. I had no idea that his kingdom was already here; he’s already working in the hearts of these people! I need only love them like Jesus does.
I’m here in the Dominican Republic with my team, Steadfast Pursuit and another team from my squad, The Forerunners. We are staying in a house on the outskirts of Santo Domingo, working with Iglesia Cristiana Benición, a small church who’s name roughly translates to “Church of Christian Blessings.” Our ministry this month includes regular church cleanings, English lessons for the local kids, and evangelizing around the neighborhood with Pastor Juan.
On Saturday nigh t, days after our arrival, I was asked to sing two English songs in front of the small congregation during Worship. I’d had voice lessons back in high school, and I’ve sang in front of church services before, but I’ve always been a little self conscious about my vocal ability. I didn’t come on this trip to hold anything back though! Ready or not, God wanted to use me and the gifts he’d presented me with. Nobody expected me to sing professionally. Only with my heart. So I agreed to step outside my comfort zone.
That is how I found myself on stage Sunday morning, holding a microphone, under the gaze of about three dozen Dominicans, few of whom spoke my language. I began to sing. The first few lines of “Here I am to Worship” came out with uncertainty. About halfway into the first verse, I heard other voices! Their voices! They were singing! But it wasn’t in English. They’d recognized the song and were singing along with me in spanish. I almost broke down crying. It was one of the most beautiful sounds I’d ever heard. Two cultures, two languages, two worlds, worshiping one God in the same room. It took my breath away. I felt so close to The Lord in those moments! For the first time I began to see just how big he really is.
I read a quote the other day that went like this:
“God created man in his own image, and then man returned the favor.” That is what I’ve been doing. I’ve been restricting him; keeping him in a little tiny box that I am able to define. I speak English and so my God speaks English. It never occurred to me that the creator of all people would be able to understand all languages and that their songs of worship are just as sweet to him.
And let me tell you, Dominicans know how to Worship! They’re authentic and free. Even though words like “Jesus,” “santos,” “te amo” and “alabanza” are all that I can understand, their melodies stir something inside me that makes my spirit rejoice. I’m so humbled to be here! These people are teaching me more about God than I had ever dreamed of teaching them.
It’s only month one, and I’ve already done so much growing, I’m so excited to see what the rest of the Race has in store!
Playing in the rain
Helping build a fence for the church.
