Friday, July 15, 2011

Maasai with a Vision

Moses, Pastor Mikaeli, Pastor Obedi

While visiting in the Longido area of Tanzania, one of the pastors informed me of what the Maasai Christians were initiating in that district.  The leaders in the association met together and agreed upon a unified vision (maono -- mah o no in Swahili) to reach their entire district for Christ.  They formed teams of evangelists and teachers/disciplers.  They began going, working and teaching in the various areas of this district.  I was informed that since February 2011, 9 new churches have been started. A unified worship/baptism service was scheduled recently where 120+ Maasai were baptized and more are scheduled to follow.  He said that the Maasai were convicted of their lack of progress in "doing the work of Christ". They had benefited from missionaries working in the area, various Bible School, seminary branch, and leadership classes, and help from volunteers but had not done anything on their own to show others through actions what they truly believed.  They now have their own vision and direction and are putting their thoughts and words into action.  This is a great moment for us in that without our input, they are actively living out their faith in reaching and teaching others for Christ.  This is also and most importantly an answer to prayer -- prayer that the Maasai would get a vision and motivation to reach and disciple other Maasai for Jesus Christ.  This is just the first step as God continues to work among the Maasai and they begin to follow His leading and direction with faith and action.
Pastor Luka from Ketumbeni area