Traveling throughout Britain can be exciting and adventurous; yet to a foreigner, the unexpected is always around the corner. We've had the opportunity these past few weeks to be able to visit other Calvarys, encouraging through prayer and fellowship, as we've traveled over hill and dell in reaching our destinations. God has allowed me to see such beautiful country and has given us opportunities to share along the way.
The first trip taken this past month was up in the midlands of England and Bristol. Bob spoke at a mens/leaders retreat and even took 3 men from our own little church to be encouraged. While he was gone, I ventured out all by myself to take the train to Cardiff to visit a sweet sister who just had a baby. This was my first attempt in taking the train by myself and to learn the system. Now some would say taking a train is easy, and it was indeed, but I must confess there were moments of anxiousness and worry. This would be my first time ever on such a machine and those worrisome thoughts seemed at times to captivate the mind, robbing me of the adventure. But I did enjoyed it as the train traveled through the countryside of pasturelands filled with sheep and baby lambs frolicking through the grass. What a picture of God's beauty and peace. All the more, the Lord gently reminded me within my anxious thoughts that He would take care of me, just as He takes care of those sheep, not to worry-but enjoy the moment!
Exodus 33:14 says, "The Lord replied, I will personally go with you, and I will give you rest-everything will be fine for you." Indeed the time was great, and I got home safe and sound.
"Solomon's Porch" is becoming such a blessing. My role is cooking and providing a warm and loving home for these 'Uni' students. Each time we meet, I try to share an American dish. This time it was "salad potatoe", which by the end of dinner was gone! They love the many varieties of food, and I love sharing in this small way. As the Lord has equipped me with that gift of hospitality, I have been able to use it in so many ways to share God's love to their hearts!
The Uni students are in their exams right now, studying every minute possible. But Friday night they took a break and came over for Tacos and a time of worship. Truly the presence of the Lord filled our place. Upon leaving they felt so refreshed and were so grateful they took the time to spend time in His presence through prayer and worship. It reminded me.. just how often in our busy schedules do we often neglect to spend time in God's presence when He is calling us to do just that? So many excuses, but yet when we stop and just do it, He blesses us, refreshes us and then refills us once again by His Spirit to continue on. The Lord tells us to "Come unto me...and you will find rest for your souls." As we come and relax in His presence, He not only promises to strengthen us but also prepare us for what lies ahead.
Just as those students reminded me that night of such a simple step we must take in pausing from our endless activities to connect with God, my prayer for you is the same. The Lord promises to guide us and satisfy us and strengthen us in whatever comes our way. If He is leading you to His throne lately, are you following?
Isaiah 58:11, "The LORD will guide you always; he will satisfy your needs in a sun-scorched land and will strengthen your frame. You will be like a well-watered garden, like a spring whose waters never fail." (NIV)
Matthew 6:33, "But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well." (NIV)
As an update:
The radio ministry is going good. We took some steps to enable verse by verse teachings to go out on a more broad basis . Bob has archived his teachings on the church website calvaryexeter.co.uk, and through the radio program "SURRENDERED HEART" at calvarychapelradio.co.uk. We are already getting encouraging responses from these efforts.
The church is growing in the Lord and excited to grow deeper into God's Word. We are currently studying the book of Matthew on Sundays. Again thank you for your prayers and encouragement.
Prayers requests:
Learning to drive to get my UK license
Open doors to begin a ministry training center
Divine appointments for effective ministering in our area, Devon
New location for the church that is close by the University
Discipleship
