We played music in congregations to encourage people to continue and grow in their walk with Christ, while other times we were invited to schools to speak to classes about our personal faith. Some days were even spent going to markets or hospitals to meet inspiring people, play music, or even introduce the gospel. Partnering with Ghanaian Christians in love and service to others was such a privilege, and I am so grateful for meeting the incredible people of this multi-cultural nation. At first not knowing what I would experience, I found the three-month trip was more amazing than I ever could have imagined!
Extending My Family
Many times we stayed in a "Guest House," which is somewhat like a bed and breakfast. On one occasion I went into the living room to visit the owners. While I met the wife, she soon invited me to sit with her. In Ghana, you are given a name based on the weekday you were born. As I am Monday-born, for example, my Ghanaian name is Adwoa. Once the wife and I discovered we both had the same name, she pulled me into a motherly hug and said, "I am your African Mama!" By the warmth in her voice, I felt such comfort to know how welcomed I was.Freedom
Our band had the privilege of being at celebration of the 50th Anniversary of Ghana's Independence. It was incredible to behold with thousands of other people. International Presidents and distinguished speakers from all over the world gathered at Independence Square in the capital city, Accra. The excitement I felt that day made me think of how Christians can celebrate everyday their victory and freedom from sins through Christ.The Strength Of A Child
Some of the best times I had were when I could sit and listen to the life stories of the people I met. A young child I spoke with was one of the most inspirational people I met my whole trip. Not being from a wealthy family, this little child had to work starting at a very young age. Later being adopted by another Ghanaian family, the opportunity to go to school arose. In return though, the child had to leave behind parents and siblings. It was the optimistic attitude of that child, however that challenged and inspired me. There wasn't fear or anger in the child's voice, but thankfulness and hope. As we also got to meet children aided by Compassion, an organization created to educate and minister to children worldwide, I grew to better understand what blessings children give to adults.A Taste Of Western Africa
While in Ghana, I learned to only eat with my right hand, and the food itself was spicy. Besides fresh fruit, I ate rice, fufu and banku (which is pounded corn, yams, or plantain into a sticky substance), which are often added with okra stew or groundnut soup (which is like a tomato and peanut broth). A meat would often be served as well, such as chicken, goat, beef, and rat. I enjoyed most of what we ate, with my favorite being banku and groundnut soup with chicken.Music Programs
Our band played in front of various sized groups (between 25 and 1,250 people). One of the most memorable times was when we were at a children's ward at a hospital. There were about 35 women and small children, and while we were playing "Onyame ba" (O Son of God, Come for Your Praises), the women were clapping, dancing, and truly worshipping God with us. But what I found so inspiring was that these women (who had sick children) praised the Lord despite the hardships they faced.Praise In Any Language
This particular village, called Nalongni-Uchado, is very special to me. When I was with two new friends I made, we started teaching each other church songs in one another's languages. Many children and adults were around us singing along or just enjoying the music in different languages. It was incredible to see in many places like this how deep the faith in Christ was.Exploring God's World
Although we presented music programs regularly, we did manage to squeeze in a few tourist attractions too. One of my favorites was seeing a village on stilts, called Nzulezu. To get to school, older children walk and canoe everyday, while the younger ones fearlessly jump into the water whenever they can.The Power Of Play
Some of my most special moments in Ghana happened when I had an opportunity to play with the local children. While I tried with my small vocabulary of local dialects (for example, Twi or Fanti) to communicate, many times it was games and playing that I depended on to be able to connect to kids. It was so much fun to teach them to dance The Hokey Pokey or The Chicken Dance. And in return, I was blessed by learning a few of their games.Sunday Worship
A worship service was usually at least two hours, with lots of music and singing. The women, some carrying a baby on their back, wore beautiful dresses while the men were handsomely dressed in fine clothing. One Sunday, people started dancing. Being a little hesitant, I asked my Ghanaian band member if was okay that I join in, to which he answered, "Yes, you should!" It was pure joy to worship God through movement as well as words.Trust Completely In The Lord
With all the amazing memories there were still hardships, but one thing that kept me going was the fact that God had a plan in everything we faced. This passage, preached by a Ghanaian Pastor the second day we arrived, served as a important message for me to remember, both now and always."For I know the plans I have for you", declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future."
-Jeremiah 29:11
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