Missionary profile – Musa Lazari

By Mercy Kambura

Missionary in Tanzania

Growing up in Mwanza, Tanzania, my heart was split right in the middle where religion was concerned. My mother was a Christian, and my Dad wasn’t. Growing up in such a family was hard, but Mom made it her life mission to teach me about Jesus. This passion for Jesus was fanned into flame by my Sunday School teacher. One day in 1981, I went to church, and the pastor asked for anyone who wanted to receive Jesus, and I got saved.

I was interested in following Jesus. I went to the Bible College at Katungulu in Mwanza and, later, to Nassa Theological College. While at the Bible school, I first heard about the unreached and cross-cultural missions.

I’m now serving as a missionary among the Swahili people on the Southern Coast of Tanzania. I’m working with Africa Inland Church Tanzania. I have now served as a missionary for over 20 years. The greatest lesson I have learned is the importance of knowing the people’s language. This is one of the best doors to reach people. If you can speak their language, you can talk to their hearts.

I started serving as a young man and have enjoyed connecting with other missionaries. My family has also seen first-hand what mission is like. God hasn’t left us alone and won’t leave you alone as you serve. He promised to be with us to the very end. He’s provided for all our needs.

The Church in Africa needs to teach missions more among the congregations. We need to do more outreach and send Christians who are interested in going.