Missions Africa 2010 Countdown 

Six vaccines and few hundred dollars later I have been pronounced fit to travel to Africa, into 4 different countries, along infamously potted roads, to discover the wonders of Africa.  I’m not entirely sure what to expect, I have only been to Egypt – which everyone assures me, is not really Africa. 

 In recent weeks numerous flights have been booked, hundreds of emails have flown around the world and lots and lots of preparation undertaken.  I feel that we are pretty much set for what will amount to a 25 day ministry trip. 

 Our Pentecostal Assemblies of Canada Global Workers on the ground have done a tremendous job with information and logistics.  As I partner with them, it is a privilege to come alongside them and minister with them and the fruitful work that they are engaged in. 

 Upon arriving first in South Africa, where we will overnight, Geraldine Sweet and myself will journey on to Lusaka, Zambia.  I will then continue on to Kitwe, Zambia, via Ndola to visit the Village of Hope, the first village established by the PAOC in 1999.  In some ways it seems rather surreal to actually visit a Village of Hope. 

 Although I have helped raised thousands of pennies as a Children’s Pastor to support projects at the Villages of Hope, it has always seemed so far away.  Now, I will actually see and touch the reality of what all those pie in the face offering contests and cookie dough sales produced.

  When we give to missions, I sometimes think we are secretly a bit disappointed that we don’t “get” something tangible in return.  The investment of an eternal soul being redeemed doesn’t exactly fit into a stock portfolio, on a fireplace mantle or anyplace that our “stuff” can be displayed. 

 Like you, I am blessed with “stuff”.  “Stuff” that I gladly share with others and that I hopefully steward well for the Kingdom.  But as I travel to Africa, I hope it’s not just the lack of “stuff” that captures my attention most – but rather the eternal souls that walk along the roadways, through the markets and alongside me. Souls who are definitely worth all the “stuff” in the world, in order that they might be introduced to the Savior and embrace the Creator of the Universe. 

 

Prayerfully Partner 

Thanks for all notes of encouragement and reminders that I am in your prayers.  Global Children’s Connection is a developing ministry within PAOC International Missions, so it often feels like there is so much to do, not enough time and never enough resources.  I have been encouraged in recent days by remembering that God is more than sufficient and He is the keeper of all my days.  One glance at my upcoming ministry schedule will assure you that I need your prayers!  While great opportunities await me – so does the potential for great challenges.  Here are some specific things that you can prayer into with me.

 Pray that in all my comings and goings, God would go before me.

(Numbers 6:24–26 “The LORD bless you and keep you;the LORD make his face shine upon you and be gracious to you; the LORD turn his face toward you and give you peace.” )

 Pray for safety as I board many planes and travel many kilometers by land.  Also, pray for health and strength, as the schedule is full. (Psalm 91)

Pray for favour with country officials, airline staff and people I will encounter.  I am limited to 30 lbs of checked luggage!  

(Psalm 5:12 “For surely, O LORD, you bless the righteous; you surround them with your favor as with a shield.”)

 Pray for a fruitful multiplication of the training that we sow into national leaders; that they will impact their nation. (Matthew 9:37,38  Then he said to his disciples, “The harvest is plentiful but the workers are few. Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field.”)

 Pray that Geraldine and I will be a blessing to all those who God puts in our path and that we will be spirit empowered ambassadors of the Kingdom!

 Upcoming Ministry…

 March 16

Depart Vancouver for Toronto

 March 18

Depart Toronto for Johannesburg, South Africa, via Amsterdam

 March 19

Arrive in Johannesburg 10:30PM local time

 March 20

Depart Johannesburg, for Lusaka, Zambia, 2 hour flight

 March 22

Depart Lusaka for Ndola, Zambia, visit Village of Hope in Kitwe

 March 23

Return to Lusaka, meet with Global Workers

 March 24

Depart Lusaka for Harare, Zimbabwe, meet with Global Workers

 March 25-April 4

Children’s Ministry training seminars, 10 days, 10 cities

 April 5

Ministry at Jubilee Church, Harare, ZA

 April 6-12

Ministry to families at Africa Regional Retreat, Mombassa, Kenya