Shamian Christ Church

Today we had the opportunity to worship with fellow Chinese believers at Shamian Christ Church. It was amazing. The service we went to was done in Mandarin and English. We sang a song in English and then they would sing one in Mandarin. It literally brought tears to my eyes to hear them belting out their love for God in Mandarin. It was something I'll never forget. We know from Voice of the Martyrs that the Chinese church is extremely persecuted and yet it is the fastest growing church in the world. We were surprised to see that there was even a Christian church,but we think that they allow the church here on Shamian Island because there are SO many Americans that stay right across the street. I'm sure the Chinese government is hoping that we think the rest of China allows this freedom to worship, but we know better. The sermon was on wisdom, and the preacher would speak in Mandarin and then the interpreter would speak in English. He spoke about Adam and Eve and referred to them as ancestors. Scott and I loved that. I don't know that I have ever referred to Adam and Eve as my ancestors, but I will now! After the sermon and lady gave her testimony. She, too, had an interpreter. She read Psalm 23 at the end, with tears coming down; it was a blessing to see and hear.

We came back to the hotel, napped, shopped, ate at Lucy's (AGAIN), and shopped some more. We went back to our friend's shop that met yesterday, the one who invited us to church. She said she saw us there. We are going to go back to her shop tomorrow to exchange email addresses. She is beautiful on the inside and out!! She is a definite breath of fresh air and has been a blessing to get to know.

Tomorrow is a free day. Planning on going to the local meat market. We hear they've got EVERYTHING under the sun there. They raise dogs and cats, to eat! They butcher right there! So, for those of you who have weak stomachs, be prepared for tomorrow's pictures to be eye opening!!

That's right! She's sleeping in her crib! YAY!