October 12, 2023
SING A SONG
Betty Samelson
Volunteer and MMM Board Member, Colorado
Make a joyful noise unto the Lord, all ye lands!
Serve the Lord with gladness, come before His presence with singing.” - Psalm 100:1-2
There is a lot of singing in Malawi. Before training on my first day in 2008 in Embangweni, all the volunteers walked to Chapel. While we waited for the service to begin, two Africans began to sing a capella. It was melodious and soulful. With tears in my eyes, I knew that I was going to love Africa.
There are times the music is loud – raucous. We’ve been met by young boys running down the hill drumming the entire way and villagers that drum their water buckets making a circle around us singing and dancing. In church the teen choir will begin to sway and move their feet in unison, singing in the most perfect harmonies. Music in Africa brings joy that connects all who are present. Teilhard de Chardin says that joy is the most infallible sign of the presence of God.
Often when we pull into the village for a well installation, we are surrounded by villagers singing and dancing. Sometimes this continues all the way to the well. And then, the water is pumped, and we all stand in awe because the water is clear and clean. We recognize that this well will improve the health of this village and the singing of thanks begins again. Last year we had two wells that were within walking distance of each other. An elder followed us to each well giving us thanks for the wonderous gift of clean water, telling us “God must love you.” We told him that God loves him. Being part of this mission brings me such joy of wellbeing and a connectedness with the people of Africa and God.
Application Question: Today break out in song, either solo or with the people you are with. Make up words, like I often do, or hum along. You’ll begin to recognize the African songs after a week. Then allow yourself to feel the presence of God.
Prayer: Dear Lord, thank You for this day, for each song heard and sung, for the joy and connectedness that we feel for one another through song. We pray in Your name. Amen
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