I never cease to be amazed by the wonderful power of God

I went to church again this Sunday, expecting to simply see Abby and take her to lunch for her birthday. But falling into a routine, was not what God had in mind. We saw some other American college students that we had met a few weeks ago and were excited to also meet some other students. We sang even more uplifting songs and the girl that typically welcomes the church used the song "Because He Lives" to describe her situation. She said whenever her husband asks how she is, she says "better than yesterday" then he responses "why?" and she responses with this song. It was a great way to show so many people, especially the non Christians or new Christians how to turn to God in any time of need.

We were then informed that 137 people would be baptized today! They don't typically do as we do in the states, having people baptized when they want, but set aside a time (about every 6 weeks) for people to be baptized on a Sunday morning. They also have a class that meets twice a week for those that want to be baptized and become a Christian to learn about our faith, etc. So those people that had been studying, were then baptized yesterday! We were trying to go upstairs to the main hall after our English service to pray, but they were already going through their baptismal ceremony (or one of them with some of the people because they have about 6 services on Sunday). All the new Christians wore white robes and the ministers stood at the front, asking for their confession and commitment, giving them a certificate, a new Bible and something else I couldn't see. Then they all stood together. I couldn't see if they were sprinkled right then, or if they were baptized after all of them were finished confessing. To be honest, we left as this happened, but were able to see all the above. It was so great to see it all and Acts 2 ran through my mind. It is so great to see so many Chinese brothers and sisters added to the church and to see God work everywhere in the world.

We are so blessed and I'm so grateful to have been a part of this church over the past months. I will also try next week to go see the hotel where the new Church of Christ will start on August 3. I'm only sad I can't attend the service that day. God is working all around us and it is great to see his power and reach!

Have a blessed week! I'll be home in less than 2 weeks. Get excited! I know I am... especially for cheese! ;)