Continuing on from the trip debrief of last week’s blog, my round the world journey continued from Ukraine through Poland through Netherlands and on to Thailand for the Great Commission Congress.

While on my way to Thailand, in Poland I met Ahmed from Azerbaijan who passionately told me I must repent of my heresy and sin of believing Jesus is God’s Son or I would burn in hell! Meanwhile I’m pleading with him to trust in Christ as the only way, truth, and life, God’s only path to the Father. Two very different perspectives all centered upon who Jesus is.

The thrust of this conference was on the church as God’s primary vehicle for reaching the nations. Just as Paul and others did in Acts, we must plant health churches, disciple believers up to maturity in the church, practice ordinances and discipline for members of the church, and strengthen churches by appointing godly elders and leaders. While there may be some subtle practical differences in our missiological views, I was encouraged and able to encourage others with our Bibles open and hearts receptive to God’s message for His people.

Without a doubt the highlight of the time was seeing two of my kids (Adam and Alyssa) who came from a country in Southeast Asia for the conference. We were joined by Alyssa’s boyfriend Braxton who made the long journey from Louisville, Kentucky. [I’m quite sure he came primarily to see one particular person than for the conference! ;)] I am so very thankful for the mission vision and commitment our kids share, pouring themselves into spreading God’s glory globally.

While attending the sessions, table discussions, and workshops, I was able to make several helpful connections with global workers. In some cases, they wanted more info about the trainings we offer, and in other cases I was able to get questions answered about orality issues and options for equipping workers among unreached people groups. All in all, it was a very beneficial time when I could decompress from the stress of Ukraine and spend time with a couple of my kids while establishing some new relationships. Mark Dever spoke at the church we visited on Sunday and again at the conference.

After what felt like a very long time away, I was delighted to return home to Holly and enjoy a bit of downtime with her. Thank you for your prayers for this productive time serving the Lord globally.