Speaking in Amman

Last Sunday it was my delight to speak in a church in Amman, Jordan. Just before beginning my message, a woman with a powerful voice sang a medley of songs reminding us of God's love and watchful care of His redeemed. Of course these songs were sung in Arabic but the tune was familiar enough that I could sing it in English. I love moments like these, two cultures, two languages united in worship of the God who binds our hearts as one with His.

As the lady stepped down from the platform my translator asked, "Where in the US are you from?" "Birmingham, Alabama" I replied. That's when he told me something that was so strange I could hardly believe it. "That lady who just sang, she lives in Birmingham." Funny thing is, I could not detect any "southern" Arabic is all she said. Never did find out if there is an Arabic equivalent for ya'll.