Big Day
Today was a very big day. We had coffee at 6am (we always do…Mike brought along Starbucks and his French press!), breakfast at 7AM, went to our training conference at 8 and were there until 2PM (Mike and I taught on the Holy Spirit today). We were at the hotel for two hours and then each went to separate churches for the evening. I spoke on some fresh insights into the Prodigal son…especially looking at the older brother. People were very grateful. I just returned from that…it is 9PM. We do the same schedule all day tomorrow. I’ll be tired by Sunday.
I spent time with a pastor tonight (I was at his church) who was adopted by the BGC years ago — they sent him to a theological school up here. He has been an evangelist for 11 years until very recently. He has baptized 10,750 new believers and started 42 churches! And then he wanted me to preach in his church… Very humbling.
I’m reminded of the sovereignty of God while on this trip. In the most remote locations, with the most primitive of settings, God is working in mighty ways to bring so many into the family of God. We can naturally think that wherever we are is the center of the world, in a way. This is simply not true. God is doing such incredible things in so many places all at the same time…even here in Arunuchal Pradesh!
It humbles me to think that God notices me, cares for me, and uses me.
Gracious Heavenly Father –
I lift Pastor Ivan up to you this day. You, the amazing, living God has brought your servant across the world to minister and encourage your children in the nation of India. I pray for continued strength and health for Ivan. I pray that all people Ivan comes in contact with will recognize him as being a man who has been with Jesus. I pray that they will hear his voice but that they will be your wordsthat flow from his lips.
I pray that Ivan will continue to be a sponge for you. That he will be soaking up all that you have for him. I pray that he will amazed by you and the work that you are doing in India. I pray that your people at Edinbrook will receive the words that Ivan shares with us upon his return with excitement and enthusiasm. I pray that whatever you have used to move Ivan to action will also move us to action.
Thank you God for Ivan. Thank you God for his leadership. Thank you God for this journey that you are bringing him on. May we get as excited and join in as well.
Bring Ivan home safely and in great health. Until his return home, may your Holy Spirit move Ivan to do and say incredible things for your glory and honor.
AMEN!