In a recent sermon at the Newlife Prayer Center in Mavueni, Kilifi County, Pastor Ezekiel Odero delivered a profound message to his congregation, encouraging Christians to draw inspiration from the practices of their Muslim counterparts. In his address, he emphasized the importance of humility, sincerity, and unwavering devotion in one’s faith journey.
1. Embracing Humility in Worship
Pastor Ezekiel urged his congregation to adopt the humility displayed by Muslims during their prayers at the mosque. He noted that in the mosque, there are no titles or distinctions among worshippers. Instead, everyone bows down in reverence to their God, regardless of their social status. This, he stressed, is a powerful reminder for Christians to shed their pride and approach their faith with humility.
2. The Unity of Devotion
The church leader further illustrated how Muslims, irrespective of their location, prioritize their prayers. Even when they are in a bank or any other public place, they close all doors respectfully and hasten to the mosque when it’s time for prayer. This unwavering commitment to their faith serves as an example of how Christians should approach their relationship with God, setting aside worldly distractions when it’s time to commune with the divine.
3. Overcoming Fear and Superficiality
During the service, Pastor Ezekiel also addressed the tendency among some Christians to hide their faith or be discreet about their prayers. He urged believers to openly express their devotion, emphasizing that true faith should not be concealed. He challenged Christian leaders to lead by example and work with the fear of God, highlighting that some leaders hide their Bibles while displaying other items, such as tablets, openly. This practice, he noted, does not align with the principles of humility and sincerity in worship.
4. Prioritizing Prayer and Faith
Pastor Ezekiel encouraged his congregation to allocate time for prayer, emphasizing that many Christians prioritize their personal hours and businesses over their spiritual life, often resulting in struggles and failures in their worldly endeavors. He reminded them that Muslims, when it’s time to pray, close their businesses and go to the mosque, and their commitment to their faith positively impacts their businesses.
In conclusion, Pastor Ezekiel’s sermon delivered a compelling message to Christians, urging them to embrace humility, devotion, and sincerity in their faith journey. By drawing inspiration from the practices of Muslims in the mosque, Christians can strengthen their relationship with God, prioritize prayer, and lead lives that reflect their deep-seated beliefs.