Family

Heading to East Africa

Off to Tanzania today. Travelling with my son-in-law, Dan Gower. It will be a privilege to serve along side him. We’ll be hosting and teaching at several conferences for pastors in Mbeya and Tukuyu. Later next week, more of the same in Nairobi, Kenya, with young aspiring leaders.  I’ll get some research done too, hopefully! UPDATE: Home safely from a wonderful trip. One of the most challenging and blessed times I’ve known in Africa.

Our families belong not to us but to Christ

“I have now to ask whether you can consent to part with your daughter early next spring, to see her no more in this world; whether you can consent to her departure to a heathen land, and her subjection to the hardships and sufferings of a missionary life; whether you can consent to her exposure to the dangers of the ocean, to the fatal influence of the southern climate of India, to every kind of want and distress, to degradation, insult, persecution, and perhaps a violent death.  Can you consent to all this, for the sake of Him who left His heavenly home and died for her and for you, for the sake of perishing, immortal souls, for the sake of Zion and the glory of God?  Can you consent to all this, in hope of soon meeting your daughter in the world of glory, with a crown of righteousness brightened by the acclamations of praise which shall redound to

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Grounded in Nairobi!

We were due to arrive home about now, after nearly six excellent weeks ministry in Rwanda. But, because of the eruption of the Icelandic volcano, we’re stranded in Nairobi. There is no sign that flights will resume in the next few of days. Meanwhile, we’re staying in a nice hotel at the expense of British Airways. Well, at least for three days. I’ll keep you posted. While this life is full of contingency and unforeseen events, the Lord of the universe is in complete and loving control.

Emma in Uganda

Last night Emma flew out to Uganda to participate in the leadership conference of  Watchmen International women’s leaders. Ladies will gather from the eight African Nations where Watchmen ministers, for teaching, training and encouragement. This is the first time Emma has been away on her own for such a conference overseas. Needless to say, I am asking you to pray for her safety, health, and for an enriching time with the Lord, and with fellow servants of the gospel. Two weeks without Em… (and her cooking), you can pray for me too!

Off to Rwanda

I’m at Amsterdam Airport waiting for my flight to Kigali, Rwanda. I shall be away from home for the next six weeks. During this time I will be ministering with Watchmen International to the largest Protestant denomination in the country. Regional leaders representing ADEPR’s 6,000 churches will gather to conferences we will be taking. The main thrust of the teaching ministry will be Christian discipleship. I expect to be spending time in John’s epistles. We will also be consulting with the denomination’s four bible colleges. I hope I can keep you posted as to how things are going, but as normal, it all depends on a reliable internet connection. For now though, I would value your prayers for my family and the heavy teaching and travel schedule. Many thanks!

And, we’re back!

A great time was had by all! The weather was notoriously Welsh, but when the sun shined it was glorious. Three Cliffs Bay (above) has recently featured in the top ten British locations with spectacular views. I’m not arguing with that. We are rested and ready for what will be a very different summer for us. I’m off to Rwanda in a few days time for what will be my longest ministry trip away from the family – six weeks! Still, glad to be home now though. Here’s a nice photo of us!!

On Holiday!

I’m taking the family for a few days break camping in South Wales; Three Cliffs Bay, in the Gower, to be precise.  It’s our last holiday as a family before my daughter Grace gets married in the autumn. So were hoping for a special time away together. I’ll be back blogging in a week or so. Then I’ll be off to Rwanda for the summer. More on that later!

Not a private matter

“The Christian life is not just our own private affair. If we have been born again into God’s family, not only has he become our Father but every other Christian believer in the world, whatever his nation or denomination, has become our brother or sister in Christ. “But it is no good supposing that membership of the universal Church of Christ is enough; we must belong to some local branch of it. … Every Christian’s place is in a local church. … sharing in its worship, its fellowship, and its witness.” – John Stott, Basic Christianity (HT: Trevin Wax)

Congratulations Guys!

An exciting announcement from a proud Dad! This week my oldest daughter Grace became engaged to Daniel Gower. They met at Edge Hill University, where Grace is reading a combined Maths and Education degree, and Dan has just completed a degree in Sports Studies. A verse for you both: “Delight yourself in the LORD, and he will give you the desires of your heart.”  Ps.37:4