Last Friday I attended an all night praise and worship service. I think the fact that the worship was throughout the night says something about the importance of worship in Africa. There is no question worship is a vital aspect of the church in Africa. Every church service here in Africa has showcased Kenyans' passion and zeal for worshipping God. Aflewo (worship) is a movement taking place in Africa similar to the prayer movements which have come out of Korea. I was blessed to worship with 5,000 plus excited Christians throughout the night. African worship is defiantly an African reality not seen in other parts of the world. I am not sure how to explain the evening. There such excitement amongst the believers here in Kenya. I have been told gospel music is becoming more popular that secular music. It seems Christianity is the newest fad, hopefully it will not loose its popularity.
At the same time, I wonder about the heart and mind of the Kenyan worshipers. They defiantly exhibit passion and excitement, but at what cost. The church in Kenya is young, and I wonder if it is possibly growing too fast. After the post election violence in 2007, numerous Kenyan pastors have wondered the same thing. The country is supposedly 80% Christian but continues to have problems with AIDs, poverty, and violence. I think it would wise to look at ourselves before we cast judgment. Then we might want to read Paul's letters to the Corinthians to better understand some of the challenges to becoming sanctified believers. I truly believe this is a time of rejoicing and not doubt or confusion for the global church. Let us rejoice together as the body of Christ for what God is doing.
The following audio clip was taken from the opening prayer at Aflewo 09. The AV team was having technical problems, so the pastor decided to pray. I know some might disagree with the prayer, but that is ok. I think the prayer represents some African realities/concepts which are very common in Africa. May you be blessed and encouraged by this news. Aaron
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