Sunday at church as I listened to the African rhythms and the joy in the Bariba voices (which I do not understand) my heart was encouraged to be with fellow believers worshiping God. But then I started thinking about the problems facing the Benin church (curse of a theologian): lack of biblical teaching, some pastors more interested in position than service, and lack of spiritual depth. I was reminded of the problems facing the American church: materialism, business and declining interest in missions. At some point, the cries of joy in Bariba brought my thoughts back to the present worship of God. My heart was warmed: despite the problems the King of kings, the sovereign Lord almighty was being worshipped and my heart rejoined the worship. May we be quick to praise the all powerful creator of the universe and slow to critique His creation.
A huge thank you to those who prayed for my training and then the leadership meetings in South Africa. Both went well and God was gracious to my wife and I while we were apart.
After being home for two weeks, today I leave for a short (three day) trip to Cotonou. I will be meeting with various people about TWR’s shortwave application and NGO status. While these meetings are mainly follow up and I do not anticipate any watershed discussions, I would appreciate your prayers for divine providence.
In my last blog I mentioned a providential encounter with a key leader of an organization who was enthusiastic about helping TWR. Last week I was able to communicate with her via phone and email. Her enthusiasm remains, for which I am thankful. Although the process has to go through other people within her organization. Pray that God would grant TWR favor in the eyes of all those involved.