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A Country Far Away

Recently in our language study, we have been walking through the text and pictures of a book called, “A Country Far Away.” This Childrens book tells two stories; the life of a boy in suburban America and the life of a boy in a small village in Africa. This book has had me thinking so much about our own journey living in “a country far away.” This has been especially true as we have been able to host our parents during the month of October. Each set of parents traveled nearly two full days to come and see this “country far away.” Both have made mention of the beautiful scenery, the incredible people, and yes the driving on the opposite side of the road. But what has stuck out to each of them the most was the move of God happening. As they worshipped in a language they have never heard, they both have made mention of the powerful presence of God in these services. While the worship service looks different compared to America, the presence of God is the same. I’m grateful that Jesus came not just for the Jews, but for all. During this month, our two worlds came together in a powerful way. As we watched our parents interacting with and ministering to the people of Malawi, we realized even more the privilege we have of living in a “country far away.” We love it. This life. This place we call home. Everything. Because in this country we have the opportunity to be a part of seeing God move in the lives of boys and girls in powerful ways. As we have said goodbye to our family from the US, we know we have our family here in Malawi we get to continue doing life with. We are so glad God brought us to this “country far away.”

WHAT. A. SUMMER!

Over the summer, we had the opportunity to participate in some great ministry. Each month brought new opportunities and exciting moments.

In May, we spent 5 weeks working with the children’s ministry team at Kauma Assemblies of God and one-week ministering in their adult service. This wonderful church is strategically located in a growing part of Lilongwe and the church is growing powerfully. Working with this team and bringing encouragement to them to keep pushing themselves and trusting in God was such a blessing to us. We made great friendships during this time and we are so excited to see how God continues to use them.

In June we spent each Saturday with the National children’s ministry team here in Malawi providing children’s ministry training throughout the central region of Malawi. We were able to partner with them in providing a one day training for nearly over 200 children’s ministry leaders. We feel this was a great step forward in

In July we had the opportunity to meet with missionaries in South Africa and strategize together. We also had the opportunity to experience a pastor’s training seminar while in South Africa. It was a wonderful blessing to meet with pastors from around South Africa and hear their stories. We even met a pastor who is originally from Malawi and was able to practice some Chichewa with him.

In august, we joined Ntchentche Assembly of God on the outskirts of Lilongwe working alongside their Childrens ministry team. Each Sunday we met after service to walk through a variety of Childrens ministry topics. We discussed a variety of things from creative teaching methods, to creating a written plan for children’s ministry and so much in between. We felt so blessed to watch this great team of all ages work hard and push themselves out of their comfort zones to see the children’s ministry flourish. They really listened closely and asked many questions. Their heart to learn was so exciting to be around. We know God is going to continue to use them mightily.

In September, We had the opportunity to Join the first two days of a Gold Bar Training for Royal Rangers from across the continent of Africa. Four countries were represented and the Holy Spirit moved in a powerful way!

What’s Next?

We are jumping into another 6-week partnership with Rejoice Assembly of God, a local church here in Lilongwe. This church is planted in the heart of a rapidly growing part of the city. New houses and businesses are being built all around them. We are believing that God will bless this time and the church will feel a boost as they reach out to those around them. We are believing this will give a foundation for the church to prepare them as God is ready to bring a multitude of children to their front doors.

We are so excited that, with the help of BGMC funds, we have been able to partner with the national church in translating the first ever chichewa children’s ministry curriculum available for our churches. The first book will include 16 lessons on what we believe. This is a huge step forward in equipping local churches for effective ministry. The next step is to have this book (the first of four books) printed and made available for local churches. We are hoping to have them printed as soon as possible.

Prayer Needs

Please be in prayer with us as we continue to partner with the church in Malawi.

Please pray with us that the work of translating lessons into chichewa will continue to move forward in a smooth way. Also pray that the national church is able to find a printing press who can print these lessons without breaking the bank.

In December, it is likely Kayla will need to have surgery to remove her gallbladder. Please pray with us that all necessary details will be worked out and that the procedure is mostly painless with a quick recovery.