Back From Africa
10-18-04

It's early Monday morning here in Texas and I'm still recovering from the seven hour time change from Africa. My body can't seem to stay in bed past four in the morning - but I'm sure I will soon get back on schedule.

The last three weeks seem somewhat like a dream. Did I really stay in three different cities in Kenya and three different cities in South Africa? Did I really speak at all those churches and gatherings (24 messages in 16 days)? Did I really meet such wonderful people who treated me with such unbelievable respect and honor? Did I really witness all those people commit their life to faith in Jesus and determine to love and trust Him more?

It's hard to put into words the incredible opportunity I was given over the last few weeks. This was my first missionary journey. I went by myself without knowing a single person other than by email contact. I committed my life and my schedule into the hands of people I had never met; and yet, God paved the way, opened enormous doors for ministry, and blessed me far more than I deserve in each and every step. He remains VERY faithful when we commit to trusting Him with all our heart!

I want to thank the many people who made this trip possible - those who prayed, those who contributed financially, those who planned my travel, those who drove me, fed me, housed me, and those who opened their churches and arranged for gatherings. It was a wonderful thing to witness the family of God reach out in so many ways.

So now what?

The scripture which kept coming to my mind through the many tears of thankfulness and joy was:

Luke 12:48
"From everyone who has been given much, much will be demanded; and from the one who has been entrusted with much, much more will be asked."

I have been given a wonderful opportunity, but with any gift there comes responsibility. I don't yet know what all this means, but I will be earnestly seeking God as to what I am to do with what I have learned and with the new friendships I have made. Please join me in prayer as you are led.

I will begin my normal devotional schedule tomorrow. Today I just wanted to say thanks and let you know I'm safely back from Africa.

Have A Great Day!