We decided to fellowship at the 3-self church today. S. hasn't been there yet and wanted to check it out. It's quite a hike from where we are, in terms of public transportation, and probably very expensive by taxi. Of course, we opted for public transportation. We took the 523 bus to a busy area and took a taxi from there to the nearest subway station. From our destination subway stop, the church is about a 20 minute walk.
As we came closer to the building, we could hear the sweet strains of "Lord, I Lift Your Name On High" in English. If you don't get there early enough, it's pretty touch to find seating, it's always packed out. As we arrived, people were standing at the entrance, waiting to be seated once the singing was over. The service was conducted in Chinese with English translation. The Scripture reading was from Isaiah 53, highlighting Jesus' suffering and also drawing parallels with Job's.
After the sermon, there is usually a time of personal testimony that is set ahead. Miss L. shared about her struggles and frustrations in finding a job. She'd sent 60 resumes, with no response. She would cry every night and question her worth, but gave it up to God. She eventually found a job that has her working 13 hours a day. (Seems a bit too long for a daily quota). She drew her talk to a close saying that speeches are like mini-skirts; the shorter, the better. (Interesting!)
S. wanted to stay for the 2-4 pm BS, but I was still pretty sick, so we went home.
Later that evening, S. went to meet some other guys for English BS with some teachers. I stayed home and rested.
