February 8-9, 2010

February 8, 2010

After a very hot day, we arose to a fresh, cool morning, but that did not last for very long. After a few hours of sunshine, the temperature began to rise. Today was the first day of classes over Psalms. We had a good class. Before ending the day, we studied a little about how to develop an expository sermon, using Psalm 1 as an example. In the evening, I met with the teachers that live here in Danli to speak about things concerning the Institute (the future; how are we going to find more students? Etc.). We realize that there are only 14 months left until the second class starts (Beta Class). We enjoyed a good supper and meeting. I returned to the hotel and did some things on the computer and put myself to bed. Until tomorrow, God bless you!

February 9, 2010

The second day of classes and it was another good day. Brother Luis David Argenal preached a good message in chapel to begin. We reached the halfway point in the material, and we spent more time in developing the psalms so as to preach them as sermons, and also, how to study them so as to give encouragement to the discouraged. The Psalms have much to teach us concerning this point. Tonight, I am going to the worship service of the congregation for a class on singing (we’re learning a song in English) and a period of prayer. The brethren of the El Zarzal congregation pray in this period for between 30 and 45 minutes. I have heard individual prayers that lasted for between 10 and 15 minutes. Many of those who are praying, kneel and remain so during the whole period of prayer, and, I tell you, that is a hard floor. I did it once, but my knees cannot not do it now. Until tomorrow, God bless you!

Donnie Bates