WORSHIP NIGHTS

Originally posted on our ministry Facebook group's wall on March 7th, 2023​

Here’s another little something I’d like to share with you. It is about an initiative made by Frederick and Abigail, a missionary couple from Barbados, whom felt really strongly that God wanted them to start off with “open house” worship sessions every last Sunday in the month. Practically, it means that sessions are open to all Christians regardless of their church background, as well as whoever friends they want to bring with them. Ideally, but not necessarily, each one of these “worship nights” should be hosted by a different local church. 

Every start is a difficult one (at least around here) and one has to walk in (blind) faith if they want to reach success. We also started slow, praying and hoping that the initiative will win the hearts of local believers as we do it. I say we, because the two of them invited me to join the worship band, with another two - an American and Chilean - being a part of it. The first worship night took place at our church in Konik, while the second was at the Community Center, which is where the two of them hold most of their activities. The two sessions were times of emotional and spiritual healing, encouragement - all so needed and precious. 

Another reason why I believe this initiative is important (and which is why I joined it) is that it stands against the spirits that are prevalent in Montenegro - those of dryness, loneliness, (self)isolation, discouragement, inactivity and defeat. It calls out to the people of God to celebrate in faith, seek refuge and strength in the Lord, gives them an opportunity to receive from Him, builds community, reminds us of His beauty and goodness, blesses the Church…

Having said that, the initiative is still fragile, as it yet needs to build a momentum and becomes widely accepted by Montenegrin churches. Moreover, the spiritual oppression, heaviness, mental and physical tiredness, etc that we, members of the worship team, had to fight against before each of the sessions, felt absolutely overwhelming. If it wasn’t for the faith in Loving Father who is greater than us, we would have given it up. But the faith and perseverance pushed us through to the “other side” where the Lord awaited for us. Praise be to Him who uses those moments to teach us more about His ways, growing our faith and trust in Him. 

Please pray that the Lord reveals us His heart and shows us His intentions with this undertake. As we learn by doing it, we want to Him to tell us not just “why”, but also “how” we ought to do it. Because this is His and His has to remain to be.