LAST DAY AT NEBBI, UGANDA

In this highly dynamic conference, though there were 15 lessons taught, we got to the point in the conference where they had examined enough clear principles that it was time to apply the lessons. We broke into many groups. They met inside (see the picture), but there were groups scattered outside as well. It was encouraging to see them discussing with their Bibles opened.

When about 30+ minutes were completed, then one group after another had a representative stand before the entire gathering and summarize their study in the book of Philemon.

The room was electric with excitement. The entire team was impressed with their clarity of presentation. They had clearly grasped the joy of discovering God's Word in a new way.

At the close, one pastor spoke about what he had experienced. He said, "I'm one of the pastors who has been studying from Monday to today (Wed)...with respect to these teachings...2Ti 2:2...'Whatever you have heard from me, go and convey it to the faithful ones who in turn will duplicate it.' So I look at this as a Timothy School."

These words were worth the price of the entire trip! These men were all agreeing that they will take what is learned an apply it to their lives and churches.

Praise God for this response.

KAMEMBE, RWANDA/DR CONGO

It is a humbling thing to speak to men who have witnessed massive atrocities and war for years. Who are we to speak to them about such things? We explained the first day that we aren't here with all the answers. We told them that there is no way we can fully understand what they have experienced. But God does understand. This broke through to them and God moved.

The entire Certified Course Instructor training with the Congolese was a tremendous success. As Theophile reminded us, this was a gathering of high leaders from many areas. The impact of those we taught already have demonstrated in their leadership roles that they are faithful men.

Theophile explained to Rick and I today that the first time these leaders heard the course on a Biblical view of Suffering, that they didn't understand it well. This course was so revolutionary for them, though they are deeply acquainted with suffering. Theophile said they were telling him, "We now understand what this course is saying from God's Word." The team from last summer plowed this ground. Now a richer harvest has taken place. They said "the church doesn't talk about suffering in Africa."

Well it does now. They are excited to go out and teach on this matter in such a way that the people will be encouraged in their understanding of God and His Will.

Rick and I are now in Kigali. I preached at Harvest Christian Church on Easter Sunday. Then beginning today we just finished the first day of the CCI.

On the way back after the sessions, Theophile said to us, "I'm preaching differently." He now invites questions after he preaches. They write these questions out and answers are given. He went on to say, "I no longer bounce around from one verse to another in my preaching. I now go deeper on the passage rather than jump around. People used to come to church without their Bibles. Now, they are bringing their Bibles! That is not who it was before."

This is how God is using our teams to transform leaders, churches, and entire regions here in East Africa.

Thank you for praying. Pray for Rick, Joel and the Pastors:

1. Clarity in communication
2. Understanding and practical insight for the pastors who are listening.
3. Ability to answer the MANY questions that are raised.
4. God's churches to be like the Bereans, bringing their Bibles and studying to see if these things are true.

Joel