Karaoke evangelism
Hi! This last weekend was again very busy. We flew back from the Bacolod region early Saturday morning, then after a quick stop off we drove to the province of Laguna. This is a very rural area with much need for practical help, as well as spiritual.
We eventually found the fellowship there, which met in a makeshift building made of bamboo tin and odd bits of wood. Within this building we found a precious group of people who loved God so much. With tears in their eyes they thanked us for coming saying they felt that they had been forgotten. We assured them they had not and were a part of the family of God. The pastors were so precious and had a dream to open a school for the local children to learn. I aksed them how much it would be to start the school – they said 5000 peso. We of course gave them this. Again we saw how easy it is to be a big blessing with so little an amount of money.
As we where leaving I heard music coming from down the dusty lane. As I followed the sound I found something not unusual to the Philippines: an outdoor karaoke party! When the local people saw me they were most interested. They were all drinking and partying, and invited me to join in, offering me homemade whisky – obviously I politely declined. Then they offered me the mic to sing. I felt this would be a good opportunity to befriend them so accepted and sang for them – they warmed to us by me doing this. I then sang My way, by Frank Sinatra, and asked if I could speak for a few minutes. I preached to them on how I lived my life my way and ruined it, and how Jesus changed my life around. I then gave them an opportunity to receive Jesus as a friend and they responded, many with tears. It was amazing how an outdoor party turned into an effective crusade, thanks to a karaoke sing-along machine; will remeber that for next time!
We then drove back to Manila. Early the next morning we went to minister in the Good Shepherd church. This was again a very special time where new friends were made. Then, in the evening, we went across Manila to the church of Pastor Sunday, where God used us to speak hope and life into their newly-planted church. It was good to meet up with them again. Another late drive home for a good night’s sleep.
In the morning we will be visiting the kids who live on the rubbish dumps of Manila (locally called Smokey Mountain). I know this will be an emotional time for the whole team.
The team is doing well, aside the mouth blisters and a couple of runny bums! All are well and enjoying the mission trip and being changed by it. Thank you for your continued prayers, we are looking forward to seeing you all soon.
Andy and the team.