Arkansas to Africa

Revival in Little Rock

2011-04-14T08:23:00.002+02:00

When I was at church Sunday here in Nairobi a friend who is also from Little Rock, with a big smile on her face asked me "have you heard what's going on at Summit? They're having a revival!"

The Summit Church in Little Rock, Ark., is my sending church and home church, which I love and miss dearly. When my friend asked me this question, I was intrigued but we didn't get to chat afterward and I honestly didn't think about it anymore, until this morning. I got on Summit's website to see if there were posts about this revival happening. I was expecting, if anything, a short video or photos but nothing more. Well, I was wrong.

When you have a few minutes, maybe 20 or 30, I invite you to check out these "Reports of God's Mercies" detailing the true revival taking place in Little Rock. What a blessing and encouragement, beautiful conviction and heart-wrenching joy.

I can't wait to be back at my church later this year. Maybe this revival will still be going on? The Lord knows my heart is in need of a revival.

Many blessings,
Blake

Beautiful Malawi

2011-04-08T23:04:00.010+02:00

Last week I traveled south to Malawi for a cluster meeting and gave a presentation about our media teams. It was such a great week catching up with wonderful friends and enjoying a restful time at the Sun 'n' Sand Resort on Lake Malawi. Beautiful place! It had a huge swimming pool, my room had AC and satellite TV and across the lake, you could see the mountains of Mozambique in the distance.

One of the best parts of my job is meeting people who serve all over Africa. Several people in this cluster I've spent lots of time with in different trainings since I've been out. But even people I met for the first time at the meeting were so kind and friendly and really exemplified that warm mission family atmosphere. The Lord always gives me these times of fellowship, rest and encouragement just when I need them the most. My God is so good!

Volunteers from Porter Memorial Baptist in Lexington, KY, served throughout the meeting and genuinely showed their hearts for our people and their eagerness to serve. Bill Henard preached from Ephesians and it was a series of sermons where you felt like he was preaching directly to you. Again, my God is so good!

Many blessings,
Blake

Beautiful Malawi with rain showers in the distance

Got to love the signs you see all over Africa

Me and Lauren, we go way back...to NTV

Me and the Nalls, we were in 40/40 together, love these guys!

Pier from the shoreline on Lake Malawi with Mozambique in the distance

More than a year

2011-03-25T21:53:00.002+02:00

It's really easy to get out of the habit of blogging. I guess once the "honeymoon" phase of living overseas wears off, the new things, the odd things, the funny things, the unbelievable things, they all begin to go unnoticed because they all become the norm.

During these few weeks of observing Lent, I decided to take a break from facebook. I spend way too much time on it and am well aware of the major distractions it can cause. I want to take these few weeks to really seek the Lord for the future and spend time in His word, discerning what He has in store for me.

Next month, it will be three years ago I attended a conference in Richmond, VA, taking the final steps to sign up to move overseas for a few years. It's hard to believe this season of life wraps up in just four months. Two years turned into three years and my, how those years have passed by. But I'm anxious to get home to Arkansas from Africa in August, to spend lots of time with my incredible family and reconnect with some wonderful friends.

Maybe during this break from facebook I'll find time to blog. Time will tell...

A Busy Start to a New Year

2010-02-16T10:12:00.002+02:00

If anyone still happens to check this blog, my apologies that it has been almost three months since I last posted. Terrible, I know. Since 2010 began, I feel like I have been going non-stop. For starters, I moved into a new apartment on the compound January 9. The following week, I was in Limuru at Brackenhurst to help with the homeschool conference for a few days. The next week, I was on a media coverage in the Nyanza Province in western Kenya to cover a medical missions team from Alexander City, Alabama. I was barely home a couple of days then it was back to Brackenhurst the last week of January to help with kids at another meeting.

So January was a full month. February was showing no signs of slowing down. After the meetings at Brackenhurst, I had a few nights at home before I headed to Tanzania for another media coverage, this time I was following a team from Beaumont, Texas, who was doing chronological Bible storying with the Maasai people. This trip was pretty cool because it was the first time I've really got to spend time in the bush with Maasai. It was a fun week and I really got a better understanding of life for the Maasai.

I thought I had about a week home before a trip to Zambia but it looks like I won't be traveling anywhere until June. I was looking forward to visiting friends there but I'm thankful I get to stay home for a while. Of course, things come up and I could be gone again before I know it. Actually, this weekend I'm going with some friends to the coast for a quick beach trip. Should be fun!

Well, that's been my life the last several weeks. I hope all is well wherever you are in the world and that you are enjoying the Lord's blessings and praising Him for loving us.

Malaria

2009-11-24T14:38:00.002+02:00

Just over a week ago, on a Friday night, I started feeling like I was coming down with something. I felt a little flu-ish but nothing too bad and a couple of Tylenol seemed to do the trick. Until the next day. I was experiencing these cycles of cold chills to the point of shaking, high fever, then cold sweats when the fever broke. All the classic signs of Malaria. These cycles would come every few hours.

Jeff and I were house- and dog-sitting for some friends in Lameru, about 45 minutes outside of Nairobi. My friend Kristen was sure I had Malaria and needed to get tested ASAP. I thought I would be okay until we got back to Nairobi Monday. Sunday changed that idea. The fever cycles were coming more frequently and in between them, I felt awful and I was vomiting by this point.

The place we were staying had a small clinic with a doctor on call so Jeff tracked him down and I met him at the clinic for a Malaria test. A quick prick on the finger and 15 minutes later, a positive test for Malaria. Nairobi really isn't a Malaria area but I had been in West Africa for over two weeks and Malaria is common there. I guess I came back with a little souvenir I didn't want.

The doctor at the clinic went with Jeff into town and go some meds for me and I started them right away. Four tablets every 12 hours. Monday morning we got up and headed back to Nairobi and I couldn't wait to get in my own bed. The fevers continued throughout the day Monday and into the night. Tuesday things were slowly looking up as the meds were really kicking in and I was beginning to feel better. Wednesday was much better with my last dose of meds but I still felt totally exhausted. Thursday I felt up to going grocery shopping but that wiped me out. By the weekend though, I was feeling myself again and today, I'm feeling great, despite still feeling tired from time to time.

They say I'm an official African "M" now that I've had malaria, sort of like a badge of honor. It's no fun to be sick with that stuff but I guess I have a new story to share from my life in Africa.

Praise the Lord, the ultimate Healer, and for faithful prayer warriors!

First time out

2009-11-13T08:18:00.003+02:00

Yesterday I drove alone in Nairobi for the first time. Until then, Jeff has been so great to either drive or be my navigator whenever we're out and about. Traffic in Nairobi is a little crazy, especially during morning rush hour and again in afternoon rush hour that lasts as late at 10 p.m. If one tries to get anywhere during these critical traffic times, expect to sit in traffic for hours. So goes life in Nairobi.

Giving directions is not always easy because many times, there are no signs marking the names of roads so you have to depend on landmarks. I had a team meeting yesterday and one of my teammates was sick so my time to drive alone had finally arrived. I got directions, asked the Lord to be with me and off I went.

This was around 9:30 a.m. and luckily much of the morning traffic had cleared. I found each turn without any problems and made it to the meeting in 30 minutes. Praise the Lord!

It's the small steps that will slowly help me get adjusted to the vast difference of life here in Nairobi, compared to Johannesburg. I'm looking forward to the day I can hop in my white station wagon (complete with a blue racing stripe) and take off to anywhere I want to go, know how to get there and when to attempt leaving my house. God is good, all the time...

Mosquitos and such

2009-11-11T12:01:00.002+02:00

Mosquitos have always been annoying but lately, I wouldn't mind if God would abolish them from the planet. For some reason these little pests have invaded my house here in Nairobi. They are everywhere. I spray Doom and kill the ones I see and it seems that killing one produces two in its place, is that possible? Jeff loaned me a Vape Mat, this little device that releases an invisible insectiside into the air that's supposed to rid one's house of mosquitos but it seems to me, these bugs are invincible. Apparently they have a taste for my ear. At night, they dive bomb my head and swarm my ear. It's like they hold a megaphone to their wings and turn up the volume. Luckily when I turn my fan on high it produces enough air flow to keep them at bay from my head. The joys of living in Africa, huh?

Since moving to Nairobi, I haven't had too many issues with power outages but today is making up for it. I'm not sure what's happening on the compound but the electricity has been going in and out all morning. Surprisingly though it hasn't bothered me too much. God is giving me an extra dose of patience today so I praise Him for that.

It has been such a blessing to live close to Jeff. We live on the same compound, just around the corner from each other, about a two-minute walk between our houses. We only have nine months left in our term and I stand in awe at God's provision by placing me to serve in the same city as one of my best friends. As Jeff and I say, "PTL!" (Praise the Lord).

Blessings to you today.

West Africa

2009-11-05T19:23:00.008+02:00

I just got back to Nairobi yesterday after a 16-day visit to three countries in West Africa. A teammate and I left Oct. 19 and headed to Dakar, Senegal, to work on visas for a couple of countries. If you have ever been curious as to how large the continent of Africa is, the flight from Nairobi to Dakar (via Abidjan, Cote d'Ivoire) had us in the air for more than eight hours. That's like flying from the States to Europe! Anyway, our time in Dakar was productive and we were granted visas to visit The Gambia and Mali.

We spent one week in and around Banjul, Gambia, visiting with the Jola people. The Gambia is a tiny, coastal West African country that runs through the middle of Senegal. The people were wonderful and so friendly and the Atlantic Ocean is just as beautiful on the African coast as it is in America.

After our week in The Gambia we headed to Bamako, Mali, to visit some friends and help them with an orientation video. It was an especially great trip for me because I got to reconnect with some friends who I met in Virginia last year. What a blessing to see how they are being used to reach the Bambara people! While there, my friend Mitch took us to a village in the bush he visits often, where we stayed overnight. The people in the village were so inviting and made us feel right at home. We had some great meals (all the men shared one large bowl of rice with peanut sauce, eating with our right hands) and enjoyed great fellowship with the people. That night, Mitch, Jerry and I stayed under a small grass straw structure (picture a manger) where we slept in sleeping bags on the ground and were watched over through the night by cows, goats, chicken, sheep...you get the idea.

We finished our visit Tuesday and left Bamako that evening flying overnight back to Nairobi. It was a great trip but I was happy to get back to Nairobi and continue trying to get settled into my new home.

Me and Mitch in the village

Our accommodations for the night

Time of worship

Making peanut sauce

ATL Team

2009-09-08T15:45:00.019+02:00

Last week I hosted a volunteer team from First Redeemer Church Atlanta. The team conducted a leadership training for local pastors in Tokoza township and visited with residents in the community. Here are a few photos from the week. Enjoy!

Photos from Rhino & Lion Nature Reserve

Ever seen a turtle smile?

Perhaps the happiest turtle in South Africa

Be near, oh God

2009-08-21T11:27:00.004+02:00

You are all
Big and small
Beautiful and wonderful
To trust in grace through faith
But i'm asking to taste...

For dark is light to You
Depths are height to You
Far is near
But Lord, I need to hear from You

Be near, oh God
Be near, oh God of us
Your nearness is to us our good
Be near, oh God
Be near, oh God of us
Your nearness is to us our good, our good

Your fullness is mine
Revelation divine
But, o, to taste
To know much more than a page
To feel Your embrace...

For dark is light to You
The depths are height to You
Far is near, but Lord
I need to hear from You

Be near, oh God
Be near, oh God of us
Your nearness is to us our good
Be near, oh God
Be near, oh God of us
Your nearness is to us our good, our good

I have been a Shane & Shane fan for years now and this song is one of my favorites. There are times lately when I've felt so far from the Lord and long to be near my God. At times I find myself in "slumps" where my time in the Word is an obligation and my prayers feel like nothing more than words. Complacency, apathy and impatience rear their ugly heads more often than not. I remember a time a few years ago when the Lord called me to do what I'm doing now; a time when I couldn't get enough of His words; a time when I felt like I was sitting at the feet of Jesus, my prayers a deep and personal conversation with Him.

I long for those sweet times with my Lord.

"But, o, to taste. To know much more than a page. To feel your embrace. Be near, oh God, your nearness is to us our good..."

Seasons of Change

2009-08-08T19:59:00.000+02:00

This time last year I was getting started with field personnel orientation in Rockville, VA. I was preparing to serve in an administrative role in Johannesburg, a position that seemed to fit me perfectly considering some of my past jobs.

During FPO, we were told of big changes ahead as our company was on the brink of a major reorganization and personnel in support roles should be prepared for changes in our jobs. Upon hearing this news, I continued enjoying my time at FPO but knew my role in South Africa could change, perhaps even a change in location.

These past 10 months have been wonderful serving in Johannesburg. I’ve met some incredible people and have assisted our leadership in various projects and meetings. During this time, however, I’ve always sensed my role in South Africa would be temporary and God would use me here for a season and then use me in other areas to meet other needs.

In April, I was approached by one of our region’s media team leaders about needs in Nairobi, Kenya. We talked about my background in journalism and the possibility of working with the east Africa team once my current term ends next August.

At the end of May, I traveled to Nairobi to visit my great friend, Jeff, who serves there. I was blessed to spend almost three weeks in Kenya and had another opportunity to visit with the media team. Still, we did not think any moves to work there could happen until next year.

After returning to Johannesburg I began thinking about the possibility of using my journalism background on the field and soon started praying and discerning if the Lord was putting this desire on my heart. The more I prayed, the more I felt led to pursue this opportunity but wanted to be 100 percent sure, without any doubt, this was a “God-thing” and not a “Blake-thing.”

As I sought answers and clarity over this, I knew my answers would be found in His word. The Lord reminded me how he led me to Proverbs 3:24 – 27 to confirm His call on my life to serve overseas. So I went back to that beautiful book. The following verses are how the Lord spoke to my heart:

“In his heart a man plans his course, but the Lord determines his steps.” – Proverbs 16:9

“How much better to get wisdom than gold, to choose understanding rather than silver!” – Proverbs 16:16

“Whoever gives heed to instruction prospers, and blessed is he who trusts in the Lord.” – Proverbs 16:20

A desire to serve in this role in Nairobi was growing in my heart and I humbly asked the Lord to guide each step of the way, to open the doors if He so willed, or shut them if now was not the time.

I was desperate for the Lord’s wisdom and sought discernment and understanding of what He was doing in my heart.

I trusted the Lord when He instructed me to pursue this opportunity now, rather than later.

God has proven faithful these last several weeks as I began pursuing a new role that brings a new home for me in Africa. He has continued to confirm His plans for me to transfer to Nairobi and now it appears I will be moving sometime in October.

When He called me to serve overseas in 2004 He led me to return to the University of Arkansas – Little Rock to complete my bachelor’s degree in journalism. Now I know why.

What a blessing this journey of the past few weeks has been for me. I know I’m truly not worthy of this work and am incapable of taking on this role without the strength, grace and mercy of my heavenly Father. While I am leaving behind some of the most incredible people I’ve ever met in Johannesburg I am so excited and blessed to be using my gifts in writing to share God’s stories in Africa and to be moving near some of my closest friends in the world who I went through training with one year ago.

Praise the Lord for His faithfulness and reminding me His plans prevail over mine and He can choose to send me and use me anywhere and anytime He desires.

My Nieces

2009-07-07T08:20:00.012+02:00

It recently occurred to me I haven't posted any photos of my three beautiful nieces at home in Arkansas. Beth was born 27 May 2004 and didn't become a big sister until 17 June 2007 when Kati came along. A few months later my Keilani and John got a big surprise when they found out they were having Holly who came into the world 22 May 2008. I miss my girls but enjoy so much "seeing" them on Skype and talking to them on the phone. Of course, their collection of African surprises grows bigger by the month. They probably have more African stuff than I do! It's so much fun sending them presents and money from all over Africa. So here are a few photos of my girls (a few months old but I hear some updated ones are on the way).

This was taken in October just before I moved to South Africa

Beth Julianna Chandler, 5

Kati Nicole Chandler, 2

Holly Grace Chandler, 1

Beth, Holly & Kati

Kati & Beth

Me & Beth

Me & Kati Boo

Me & Holly

His Perfect Plan

2009-06-18T20:45:00.005+02:00

I just returned to Joburg a few days ago after a nearly three-week visit to Kenya. A few months ago, I began planning this trip to visit my friend Jeff who serves in Nairobi. Jeff and I met in Virginia last year during training with the IMB. Over the months, Jeff has become like family to me and one of my closest friends in the world.

Originally we planned for my visit to last only one week. As the trip drew closer we decided one week wasn't enough and I knew my supervisor, Wade, would be in Nairobi that week so why not stay a couple extra days and fly back to Joburg with Wade? Done. I changed my ticket to depart June 6. A few days later I was asked to work a sectional meeting in Nairobi so my trip was extended even longer. Jeff and I were excited my visit had gone from one week to almost three and were praising the Lord for giving us so much time to hang out.

As my trip began changing and we knew we had more time we planned a trip to the coast of Kenya for the weekend before the week-long sectional meeting began. We were both in need of some time away from a large city to relax for a couple of days on the beach.

Little did we know God's purpose for me to be in Kenya at that time would be revealed in Mombasa. The Saturday I would have returned to Joburg Jeff received a call from home with news his cousin had passed away. Jeff was heartbroken over the news as his cousin, Sidda, one of his closest family members.

Over the next few days God continually impressed on my heart He had planned for me to be with Jeff in one of the toughest moments he'll endure while on the field. Jeff was facing something we were all told to prepare for before we departed the States. I felt totally inadequate to help someone during such an emotional time but the Lord reminded me I had to put aside my own concerns to walk with Jeff as he grieved because He chose me to be part of His perfect plan at that time.

Through it all God showed His provision by allowing me to be with Jeff during those days and made His sweet presence known daily through tears, laughter, talking with family in the States and especially when we asked the Lord to specifically reveal to Jeff a way he could honor Sidda and be part of the celebration of her life. Almost immediately after praying Jeff's brother Jason sent a message asking Jeff to write the eulogy for the service.

Dealing with the loss of someone close to you is tough especially when you're on the other side of the world from your family. But as God showed Jeff and I, His plan is always perfect and nothing like this happens without Christ being glorified. I love my brother Jeff and his family and I continue praying for them as their hearts are still hurting over their loss. It humbled me to the point of leaning solely on Christ my Savior to be able help my friend through His pain.

Thank you Lord for your mercy and grace. Thank you Lord for the years you blessed Jeff and his family with Sidda. Thank you Lord for surrounding her family in Alabama with people who will love on them and encourage them during the difficult times. Thank you Lord for speaking to Jeff's heart and for his obedience to stay in Africa where you have called him when he wanted to be with his family in the States. And I humbly thank you Lord for your provision and choosing me to be where I was, when I was, and reminding me I can do nothing without walking hand-in-hand with you. In your name, Jesus, be glorified. Amen.

Jeff and I on the beach in Mombasa, Kenya

My Hands-On Brothers (and sisters)

2009-05-26T16:44:00.004+02:00

In January, a group of twentysomethings arrived in South Africa as semester missionaries in the Hands-On Africa program. Until this team arrived, I was the only single guy with our company in Joburg so I was axiously anticipating the group of four guys who would serve here.

Over these last few months Jack, Ryan, Justin and Micah have become some of my closest friends and brothers in SA. God answered my prayers for close friendships when He sent these guys to Joburg. Along with them, there were also four girls who I became great friends with - Jarah, Amanda Hill, Amanda Holiday and Nikki. What an incredible group of people they are.

And just in the last few weeks I was able to spend some time with a Hands-On team who served in Botswana. Hunter, Brett, Stirling & Allison are a fun group and I wish we could have had more time to hang out.

Today I had to say goodbye to my Hands-On brothers and sisters. Their time here is almost done as they finish their days at debrief before heading back to the states Friday. Goodbyes are never easy and in this life God has given me here in SA, goodbyes are frequent and have yet to not stir up any bittersweet emotions.

Jack, Ryan, Justin and Micah, I love you guys and am blessed to have you in my life. You guys amaze me and it will definitely be different around my apartment without you being around. The Lord has big plans for you in the states and for some, big plans for you back in AFRICA. I'll look forward to the time we see each other whether it's this side of the world or the American side.

Cheers bru's!

Hands-On Johannesburg team

My Joburg brothers

My Botswana brothers & sister

Old Friends & New Friends

2009-05-17T20:24:00.007+02:00

Some great friends from my home church in Arkansas came to visit last week prior to their volunteer team arriving over the weekend. Kyle & Katie Reno served as College & Missions Pastor at The Summit Church in Little Rock and I actually interned for Kyle when he first moved to Little Rock in 2006. They are currently serving as College Pastors at Crossgates Church in Brandon, MS.

I also made some new friends in Pete & Jenna Lee who came with Kyle & Katie. Pete leads worship at Crossgates and I had a great time getting to know them. Their visit was such a blessing and time of encouragement for me. They will be serving with a team of students from Mississippi College this week near Pretoria.

While staying with me, we went to the Lion Park, Kruger National Park and Swaziland. Below are a few photos from last week. Enjoy!

At the Lion Park, a lion cub is biting Pete on the ankle

Kyle, Katie, me, Jenna & Pete on the rocks at the Hippo Pools in Kruger

Kyle, me & Katie in Kruger

Pete, me & Jenna at Kruger

My call

2009-04-28T10:16:00.002+02:00

In June 2004, after my first mission trip, I was called to serve our Lord overseas. I spent almost two weeks in Jamaica with a group of students from First Southern Baptist Church in Bryant, ministering to physical and spiritual needs. God changed my heart in Jamaica and I knew He had big plans for me to leave the comforts of America and go out to make disciples of all nations. I love sharing the testimony of God calling me to be a missionary and the best way I can do this is chronologically.

- June 2004 – KEITH, JAMAICA. Mission trip with FSBC students where we prayer walked, assisted in building construction, held worship services in the streets, personal evangelism and more. After returning to Arkansas I knew God was calling me to missions but I had no idea where to start. I began praying through this call and felt God was leading me to return to the University of Arkansas at Little Rock to complete my bachelors degree.

- January 2005 – reenrolled at UALR and began the first of five semesters to finish my degree. I prayed the Lord would provide the means for me to go without having to increase my student loan debt. He was faithful and provided a scholarship from my church.

- June 2005 – TECPAN, GUATEMALA. Served with a prayer walking team from FSBC in the mountains of Guatemala with Peter & Theresa Cunningham, ISC missionaries with the International Mission Board. The Lord taught me about pride during this trip.

- July 2006 – BANGKOK, THAILAND. Served with a university ministry team from The Summit Church at San Dusit Rajahbaht University in Bangkok. We built relationships with students and helped them with English. The Lord reminded me of how lost the world is and the darkness that covers so many peoples and need to hear the fundamental truths of Christianity – the saving grace of our Lord Jesus Christ.

- March 2007 – LAS VEGAS, NEVADA. Served with a student ministry team from Summit in North Las Vegas to assist Grace Point Community Church in distributing promotional material for their Easter Service. The Lord reminded me of how lost Americans are and that I can be content if He leads me to serve in the US in the future.

- May 2007 – Graduated from UALR with a BA in Journalism.

- August 2007 – WINDHOEK, NAMIBIA – Served with a team from Summit where we did children’s ministry in the townships on the outskirts of Windhoek (VIND-hook).

Upon returning to the states from Windhoek, I could not get Africa out of my thoughts or heart. I would wake up in the night thinking I was still there. One night I had a vivid dream of running through a building where a chaotic scene was unfolding. There was fire and people screaming and I was at a near panic knowing there were children who needed rescuing. I ran into room after room, scooping up kids and rushing them to safety.

One night not long after the dream and many sleepless nights, I decided to look at the IMB’s website to see what opportunities there were. I found a job in Zimbabwe that caught my attention but that was the extent of it at that moment. I went to sleep but soon found myself wide awake. The Lord brought to mind a recent message by my pastor, Bill Elliff, from Proverbs. Bill said the Holy Spirit would often wake him during the night and lead him to the Word where he would always find “nuggets of truth.” The last thing I wanted to do was be even more awake and read my Bible, I just wanted to go back to sleep. Sleep was not coming.

I opened my Bible to Proverbs and began reading. Chapter one…chapter two…chapter three…and the Lord stopped me as I moved on to chapter four. He guided me back to chapter three, specifically to verses 21 – 27:

“My son, preserve sound judgement and discernment, do not let them out of your sight; they will be life for you, an ornament to grace your neck. Then you will go on your way in safety, and your foot will not stumble; when you lie down, you will not be afraid; when you lie down, your sleep will be sweet. Have no fear of sudden disaster or of the ruin that overtakes the wicked, for the Lord will be your confidence and will keep your foot from being snared. Do not withhold good from those who deserve it, when it is in your power to act.”

I read this passage several times until the Holy Spirit made clear to me what was happening. I reflected on how God called me to missions in 2004 and the first step in the process was the finish college. I finished college four months earlier, went to Africa and now He was telling me it was time. Sleep came and it was sweet, just as He promised me in His word.

The next morning I started the application process with the IMB. A lengthy ordeal, I finished the application in January 2008.

- April 2008 – I attended the ISC/Journeyman matching conference at the International Learning Center in Rockville, Virginia.

- June 2008 – WINDHOEK, NAMIBIA. Led a team from Summit back to Windhoek to do children’s ministry and traveled through Johannesburg where I met my future supervisor, Wade Coker.

- August 2008 – moved to Rockville, VA, for two months of Field Personnel Orientation at ILC.

- October 16, 2008 – left the US to begin my first missionary term serving in Johannesburg, South Africa.

Something to think about

2009-03-27T11:25:00.002+02:00

"I make a daily decision to trust that this new life I've been given is God's plan for me. He is for me, not against me. He can make this life good, even though it's different."

- Gracia Burnham
In the Presence of My Enemies

This semester, I'm required to read a missionary autobiography for my seminary class. I chose the story of Martin & Gracia Burnham, New Tribes missionaries serving in the Philippines who were captured by terrorists and held captive for more than a year in the Philippine jungles. Martin was killed in crossfire between the terrorists and the government and Gracia was rescued and reunited with her family in the States.

The Burnham's story captivated me and reminded me how missionaries and Christians around the world are persecuted for their faith. In the end, after Martin's death and Gracia's rescue, she reflected on how greatly her life has changed as a result of their captivity and the struggles in her faith during their time in the jungles.

The above quote spoke to my heart, though. When we answer the call to serve our Father and make disciples of all nations, we begin a new life and it's not easy. We miss our family and friends, we miss all things familiar, we miss life events of those we love but we do it with great joy amidst other emotions.

This life in South Africa is a new life for me with new people, new culture and new way of life. But this new life, although different, is a good one. In fact, it's a great one. Gracia's life changed drastically, more than most of us on the field. But as she said, "He is for me, not against me." Perhaps the thing that brings me the greatest joy is knowing this is God's will for my life...what a humbling thought!

I praise the Lord for bringing me to South Africa to serve here. It's not always easy but it's continues to be a blessing. I encourage you to learn more about the Burnham's story by reading In the Presence of My Enemies. It will surely touch your heart. For more information on Gracia's new life, visit www.graciaburnham.org.

25 things you may find interesting...

2009-03-13T10:00:00.002+02:00

So I enjoyed reading 25 random things about people on facebook but refused to jump on the bandwagon...until now. In my logic, though, I don't think I'm jumping on the bandwagon since it has passed and I'm blogging mine. So yeah, hope you find some humor in my life. Enjoy!

1) It took me 12 years to finish my bachelors degree (I took a break from college…twice)

2) I lived in the same house, in the same town (Bryant, Ark.) from birth until I moved to Virginia last July and then to South Africa last October

3) My jobs in life include (in no particular order) being a gopher boy and other things at the Arkansas Highway & Transportation Dept., a substitute teacher, assistant sports editor at a local newspaper (I HATE sports), portrait photographer, freelance writer, office manager, asst. director of a Boys & Girls Club, after-school day care helper and now, serving in South Africa

4) Disney World might be my favorite place in the world. I went four consecutive years (2001 – 2004) and plan to go when I come back to the states – Space Mountain….WOOOHOOO!

5) Beth Burnett Loggains (BB) and I (Big W) can quote just about every line to Scream 3

6) Daniel Campbell and I can quote just about every line to Don’t Be Menace to South Central While Drinkin’ Your Juice in the Hood

7) Becky Barnes (Beckith) and I (Blaketh) used to go to Refuge at Ouachita Baptist every Thursday night, eat at Weng’s Chinese buffet before we left and jammed out to the likes of the ODB going down to Arkadelphia and sometimes on the way back

8) Candy Freeman Millwood (Cadence) and I (Blakemous Welchie) wrote three chapters of a murder novel titled “The Mulcher” in creative writing. We left our classmates captivated and hungry for more

9) Nick Dorsey (Tookie) and I have been to Jamaica, Hawaii, Philly, New York City, Colorado, Chicago, San Francisco, Thailand, Nambia, Las Vegas, Baltimore and probably some other random places together over the course of five years

10) As our Hawaii trip was concluding and we had been flying all night, Nick and I got in a fight (verbal, not physical) at the Minneapolis airport and didn’t speak to each other until we got back to Arkansas

11) If you can’t tell, I have lots of nicknames. They include – Blaker, Blue, Big W, Big Dub, Dub, Dubs, Grape Juice, Welch’s, Blaketh, Blakely, Blakers, Big Double-V, Blake-ums, Blakemous Welchie, Poppy…

12) I was in a school musical in eighth grade called “Nickelodeon.” I sang, I danced, I wore a cummerbund and bowtie

13) I’m not getting married. Ever.

14) I love to sing

15) I love rap and hip hop (I’m ghetto at heart)

16) In kindergarten, I chased the crippled boy in my class on the playground…yeah, I was mean

17) Jeff Norton (Tanker) and I have the BEST bathroom stories EVER from when we stayed in the African bush in Zambia….the Roman Basillica…

18) When I was 19 or 20, I was jumping on my trampoline (which we got for Christmas one year when we were kids) with Heath Gober and I came crashing through the mat and hit the ground…hard

19) When my sister (Keilani) and I were kids, we used to play a game called “toot practice” where we made fart noises on our arms and then would give each other prizes like a piece of toilet paper for whoever made the best fart noise

20) Tracey Campbell and I had the FUNNIEST weekend in Paris when I went to visit her and Paul in the UK in 1998. One night we laughed until we cried because of all the stuff that was happening

21) BB and I used to do cheerleading stunts in her swimming pool every summer and I learned to do a backflip off their diving board

22) I’ve seen Milli Vanilli, Young MC and MC Hammer in concert

23) I met the cast of Saturday Night Live in New York City in 2001

24) I laugh at my humor more than anybody else

25) I voted for Bill Clinton when I was old enough his second term and I STILL don’t regret it!

My animal friends

2009-03-03T15:28:00.011+02:00

One of my favorite parts about Africa are the animals. I've always been an animal lover and Africa has some of the most incredible animals on the planet. Over the weekend, I visited the Rhino & Lion Nature Reserve, just outside Roodepoort. I pet an adult male cheetah (who decided to clamp down his mouth on the inside of leg) and got to play with some Bengal Tiger cubs (who like to play rough and jump on people's backs). I've visited several game parks and nature reserves but I've never witnessed a pride of lions enjoying a meal...until Saturday. It's quite a sight! Here are a few picks from the day...enjoy!

Green Mambas

Black Mambas

Pigmy Hippo

Lion cubs

Me and Eddie the cheetah

Ed tasting my leg

This tiger cub likes the element of surprise

Much nicer when they're sleeping

Lunch time for this white lion pride

A message on suffering

2009-02-21T14:46:00.002+02:00

I've never been consistent with journaling but from time to time, I get the urge, most likely from the Lord, to pen my thoughts. He obviously uses those spontaneous journaling moments sometime later to remind me of these little nuggets of truth He so graciously feeds me. This morning, I read a journal entry during my time in Zambia and felt lead to share. It was a message Kevin Rodgers gave and what God laid on my heart thereafter:

26 October 2008
Lusaka, Zamibia
Kevin Rodgers (Youth Pastor Kev)

1. Suffering matures us (James 1:2-4)

2. Suffering weans us from self-reliance (2 Corinthians 1:9)

3. Suffering is an evangelistic tool

4. Suffering increases our great reward

5. Suffering helps us minister to others

6. Suffering keeps down pride (2 Corinthians 12:7)

7. Suffering identifies us with Christ (Phillippians 3:10)

8. Suffering identifies us with our people

excerpt from my journal:

"This morning we started with a worship service after breakfast followed by a message from Kevin. Chris Nalls, Johanna and I led worship with five songs. Kevin gave one of the best messages about suffering and being a missionary I've ever heard. I began thinking about how suffering for Christ as a missionary goes farther than imprisonment, persecution or violence. There is so much emotional suffering we go through by leaving our families, our friends and the lives we've always known. He also talked about when we are hurt by those we've poured our lives into when they say or do something against us. Having a servant's heart and truly finding joy in doing things for those I love can often lead to feelings of being used, taken for granted or taken advantage of. Though these times are frustrating, I have to remind myself to do things for others because I desire to glorify God, not for my own gain..."

Today, I say rejoice in serving others and find joy in suffering for the glory of God, whatever that means for you. God is good, all the time...

Freedom Park Celebration

2009-02-16T17:50:00.009+02:00

Over the weekend, I traveled to Rustenburg, South Africa, to hang out with my friend Paul. Rustenburg is about a two-hour drive from Joburg.

So Friday, Paul and I went to Freedom Park Secondary School where he ministers, to attend their achievement celebration and Valentine’s talent show. During the celebration they recognize those students who have excelled in each subject and grade.

It was encouraging to not only hear how well these students performed but also that the school was taking a day to publicly recognize these achievements. It certainly is a morale boost for the kids and an incentive for them to work hard and succeed in their education, encouraging them to become productive and responsible citizens (I think I borrowed that thought from the Boys & Girls Clubs mission statement – hey, that was my life for three years!).

It also touched my heart to hear the administrators encourage the students to be strong in their faith and seek to glorify God in their achievements and life. Though it is not a faith-based school, the leaders appeared to be believers and opened the doors of their school for Paul to share the gospel of Christ and disciple believers there. They even had a time of worship during the celebration!

After the celebration, festivities continued with a talent competition. These students love to dance and it shows! They are talented in hip hop but definitely add an African flavor to it. It was a fun afternoon watching these kids show off their moves and the fun they had doing their thing.

Here are a few photos from the day…

Street ministry in downtown Johannesburg

2009-02-12T14:48:00.003+02:00

Last night, I went with a group from Edenvale Baptist Church to give out bread and soup to those without homes who live on the streets of downtown Joburg. EBC partners with a ministry of the Central Methodist Church, located in the heart of the city.

We started at the church and I don't think I've ever seen a sight such as this in all my travels. There were literally hundreds, maybe even a couple of thousand people packed into the church. They are referred to as refugees, many from surrounding countries, but most from Zimbabwe. The every stairway, every inch of floor, every hallway was crowded with men, women, children and babies, all trying to find a place to stay indoors, seeking refuge from a chilly, rainy night.

As we made our way through the crowd, we passed a ventilator shaft in the hallway. I was shocked to see at least five people crammed into the small, narrow shaft in the wall. This was their home, among water heaters, eletrical panels and insulation.

We loaded the soup and bread and headed out to the city for the first of five stops. Those living on the streets know every Wednesday, the church group will be there to feed them. They don't line up, they don't fight, they don't beg. They know the Lord is providing them a meal and they are patient, knowing their meal will be hand delivered to them.

I visited with a man named Fred, who has been in Joburg for about six months, but calls Cape Town home. He came here to work but due to an injury and subsequent operation on his leg, he's been unable to work. He said he has no family in Joburg and no place to go. Fred seemed scared and unsure about his future. We gave him soup and bread and prayed with him. He sat down against the brick building under a small awning and seemed to enjoy his food. As we were leaving, I said my goodbye to Fred and he expressed his appreciation for the meal. I looked back as we drove past where Fred was sitting and he was gone, in an instant. My heart broke for him but I told him to have faith, that the Lord would take care of him, just as he had that night by providing a meal.

I would love to share this story through photos but sometimes, a camera is not appropriate in certain situations. Every person on the street and in the church has a story. If the Lord provides more opportunities for me to minister downtown, I hope to learn more about these precious people He loves so much.

Some great kids

2009-02-06T17:34:00.008+02:00

Thursday mornings, I spend about four hours volunteering at Little Eden, a group home and non-profit organization for kids and adults with special needs. The residents range in age from three months to 58 years. Some kids were abandoned as babies while others have families who visit on weekends.

I help with the Yellow group comprised of about 26 kids who have severe mental disabilities. I think they are in the 10 - 12-year-old range but have the mental capacity of babies and are physically limited and confined to wheelchairs, unable to do much of anything for themselves.

We have music time for a bit and "dance" with them (pushing their wheelchairs in beat with the music), let them try musical instruments, help them with art projects and help feed them during tea time and lunch.

I'm really excited to have two of the Joburg Hands-On missionaries volunteering with me at Little Eden. Ryan, from Oklahoma, has worked at a camp for kids with special needs in the past and Jack, from Georgia, has staffed at Snowbird, a faith-based adventure camp. It was blessing to see these guys love on the kids and enjoy the time there. Ryan and Jack have already become good friends of mine and I'm looking forward to serving with them at Little Eden.

Thursdays are definitely the highlight of my week. I've always had a passion and love for kids with disabilities. My mom has worked in special education most of my life so I've always been around them. When I was a substitute teacher, I often subbed in special ed and any chance I had to volunteer at Special Olympics, I would.

I also remember as a portrait photographer, on days when I would be swamped and stressed with long lines of people, God would send in a family with a child who had some kind of disability that would totally change my mood. I got a boost of patience and took my time with them. I was always grateful for those kids and rejoiced in the blessing of the Lord sending them my way just at the right time.

Below are a few pictures from the school. Due to confidentiality, I can't post names or individual pictures of the kids.

Jack & Ryan with one of the kids

Epic Adventure with Weibs

2009-01-28T10:39:00.015+02:00

January has been a busy month and my blog has been severly neglected but thanks to some accountability from Suzie Rodgers and Megan Norton, I'm finally updating!

Last weekend, me and my friend Paul Weiblen decided we needed a guy's day of fun and it all started with the idea of going in search of the Oprah Winfrey Leadership Academy in South Africa. First, let me introduce Paul, or as I like to call him, Weibs.

One thing that's been difficult here is being the only single missionary guy in Joburg. Don't get me wrong, I love the friends I have and the relationships I've built with my team but for me, I need the fellowship of other guys who are in the same walk of life as me. Paul is a journeyman in Rustenburg, about two hours north of Joburg. We connected on Facebook, met a few weeks back and were instant friends.

Paul and I split MK duty at Strategy Leaders training that's been held at the Baptist Camp in Roodepoort. I worked the first half and Paul has been working the second half. He came down and stayed the weekend with me in Joburg and we designated Saturday to be our epic adventure.

After breakfast at Mugg & Bean, we set out in search of Oprah's school, which is in Henley On Klip, SA. We didn't know how far away it was but in less than an hour, we found it! The school was locked up like a compound, of course, but that didn't stop us from taking some photos in front of the sign (see below).

Although going to Oprah's school was pretty epic, it wasn't epic enough so we chose to head back to Joburg for a visit to the Crocodile and Reptile Farm. Call me crazy, but I've always been fascinated by reptiles since I was kid, especially snakes. We got to hold a one-month-old Nile Crocodile, a hairy tarantula (which was a big step for me because I'm not a fan of spiders) and best of all, an albino python.

We took a tour of the park and saw Nile crocs ranging in age from one year to 60 years. We happened to be there at feeding time so we watched the crocs feast on dead chickens and rib meat from whatever larger animal died the previous week.

We topped off the epic adventure with lunch at the Gourmet Garage in Montecasino and Paul stocked up on Dr. Pepper and A&W Root Beer (which is imported from the States and only sold in this little American trading shop for about $1.50/can).

For two single missionary guys, our adventure was no less than epic. Hey, we are easy to please! Enjoy the photos...

Oprah Winfrey Leadership Academy

Weibs and I at the school

Weibs has a crush on Oprah

I have a crush on South Africa

Road into Henley On Klip where the school is located

Me holding a baby Nile croc

The bearded lizard

Weibs and the baby Nile croc

The albino python!

I'm thinking about adopting her so Jeff and Nick can have a roommate when they come visit

The tarantula (I'll admit, I was a little nervous with this one)

Ready for lunch!

Dining on chicken

Zambia - Part III

2008-12-17T17:27:00.011+02:00

After our 12-day stay at bush camp, we were paired off for our homestays with a local Zambian family. Jeff and I were assigned to the Benson Phiri family in town, where we spent three days & nights with pastor Benson, his wife, Agnes, and their children.

Jeff and I had no idea what to expect when Kevin Rodgers dropped us off at the Phiri’s home Friday morning. As we pulled up to the small brick home, several kids appeared, seemingly excited about their guests for the weekend. Kevin introduced us to pastor Benson who showed us inside and to our bedroom.

The Phiri’s were kind enough to give up their bedroom for us while they slept in their living room. As we entered the house, the air felt 20 degrees warmer than outside. Pastor Benson had built their home but has not had the funds to install windows so the window openings were bricked up to keep the house secure. In doing so, however, there was little ventilation so the heat was nearly unbearable to us.

Jeff and I went into our small bedroom and looked at each other. We instantly read each other’s minds. “How are we going to make it this weekend?” It was hot. The room was small. Our “shower” was nothing more than a small stall with a wash basin and a drain. The only toilet was outside, which was another stall with a hole in the ground. This was sure to be an experience.

We unpacked our things, decided we had to make the most of it and have faith that we could endure whatever discomforts may come. We sat down with Pastor Benson and visited for a bit and were served hot tea with bread and butter before we went into town.

All weekend we rarely spent anytime with the Phiri family as a whole. In traditional African culture, women are still considered second-rate people. Agnes stayed in the small kitchen with the girls much of the time; I even caught a glimpse of her lying on the concrete floor taking a nap as the breeze coming through the house flapped the sheets hanging in the doorway.

She prepared our meals and the girls often served us in the living room but never joined us for a meal or tea time. African women are strong; some of the strongest in the world and can endure some of the harshest circumstances imaginable. Coupled with this resilient strength, though, is oppression unknown to most.
I have more to share from the weekend stay at the Phiri’s, such as the traditional African wedding celebration we attended. That will be a post all its own. Until then…

Jeff with neighboring kids at our homestay

Me with neighboring kids at the homestay

The Phiri's home

The Phiri's church in the village

Jeff and I with some of the kids after church

Living room in the Phiri's home

Jeff and I with the Phiri family

Zambia - Part II

2008-12-10T13:44:00.003+02:00

So maybe blogging isn’t one of my strengths but I’m determined to do better. Picking up where I left off…

After our time in Lusaka, we headed for bush camp in Petauke, a good six or seven hours drive from the city. For any who know me, you are well aware that I’m not a camper and have never actually been camping, which may be strange to some considering I’ve lived in Arkansas since birth. Surprisingly enough, my time at bush camp were the best days of 40/40.

We stayed in tents where at night, we could hear bats chirping and bush babies peeping among the trees overhead. Bathing was a bit of a chore as we first walked to the well to hand-pump our shower water, then carry the bucket to the showers where we lowered another bucket to pour the water in, then raised the shower bucket with a pulley. My first experience with the bucket shower was a memorable one as I didn’t properly tie the rope for the pulley (this is when previous camping experience would have been helpful) and my bucket, full of water, came crashing down on my head, then bounced off my shoulder (go ahead, I give my blessing to laugh).

Our DFA’s were similar to those in Lusaka but the topic of marriage and child birth is when I learned how traditional beliefs hold African people in a bondage of fear. We visited with several families in the villages, asking about special rituals or steps taken when a couple wants to marry and when a child is born. One family shared, in graphic detail, about the husband and wife’s relationship after a baby is born. Without going into much detail, they told us about traditional medicines that are taken and rituals performed on the baby before the couple may come together again. If these acts are not taken seriously and followed through with, they believe the newborn baby will die immediately by its body being separated within at the waist.

As they shared these beliefs, I questioned them on the validity of their rituals and asked if they had ever seen a baby die is such a gruesome way due to its parents not following the customs. While they could not say they had witnessed it themselves, they simply repeated “it has happened.”

As we left the village, God reminded me of the bondage of animistic and ritual beliefs that have a stronghold on many people in Africa, especially those in rural villages.

In my next post, I’ll share about mine and Jeff’s homestay with the Phiri family. Until then…

My tent at bush camp

Visiting in the village

Jeff and I visiting with kids in the village

Pumping water for my shower

Guy's shower

Shower stall with bucket shower

Zambia - Part I

2008-12-02T19:54:00.007+02:00

For anyone reading this blog, my apologies for being slack in updating.

I’ve been back in Joburg for a week now, getting adjusted and settling in to life here in the big city. Driving a stick shift on the left side of the road is a bit tricky….okay, a lot tricky but I’m gaining confidence every day. This week, my goal is to make it to the Greenstone Mall which isn’t far from my apartment but there’s lots of traffic between here and there.

Allow me to catch up to speed on my month in Zambia. I left South Africa Oct. 22 for Lusaka, Zambia, to participate in 40/40, an on-field training to better acclimate us to African culture and help us be effective ministers in our assignments. One of the best parts of 40/40 was reuniting with our FPO group from Virginia. It was wonderful reconnecting with everyone and catching up on the past three weeks since we left ILC and our lives in the US.

During our 12-day stay in Lusaka, we were housed at the Baptist Seminary and visited surrounding townships, or compounds as they are known there, for our Daily Field Assignments. Each day, we were given a different topic to visit with the locals about, including healthcare, life cycles and spiritual beliefs.

One day, Evan and I, along with our Zambian partner Mangani, went to visit Moses, an older man suffering from tuberculosis. Moses lives in the Bauleni compound in a small, mud and brick house with a tin roof. His house, barely bigger than a bedroom, contained only a single-size mattress, a small table, a couple of chairs and a few random knick-knacks. Upon entering the house, thoughts of TB being an airborne disease ran through my head but then I saw Moses and his frail, weak body, sitting on the side of his bed, waiting for our arrival.

The Holy Spirit quickly reminded me not to fear such things but only to love this sick and seemingly helpless man. Moses told us he was on medication to treat the TB but he was very weak. He shared with us how he had lived a reckless life, abusing alcohol and other drugs, and how he deeply regretted the poor choices he made in the past.

Evan began sharing about the love of Christ and the redeeming power of God’s grace on our lives, despite the sin in our past and present. He told Moses that our Lord would rescue him from sin and change his life. Moses seemed to understand the good news and believed he could be saved in the name of Jesus. We prayed with Moses and he received Christ as his Lord and Savior.

I have much to share about Zambia so I’ll write more in additional posts. Until then…

Evan & Moses

Jeff, Evan & I at lunch in Lusaka

The lady in this picture told us she's HIV-Positive

Off to Zambia

2008-10-21T22:10:00.002+02:00

I'll be in Zambia Oct. 22 - Nov. 21 without internet access so I'll update the blog as soon as I can when I get back to Jo'burg. Thanks for reading!

I'm an American-African

2008-10-18T17:17:00.000+02:00

Thursday morning I left Little Rock, after a tearful but loving goodbye with my parents, on my way to South Africa. As I've shared before, those last couple of weeks saying countless goodbyes drained me emotionally and physically...I don't think I could have handled another day of it. After that two-week emotional roller coaster, my spirits received a big boost when I met up with the Warren's in Atlanta. It was great to reconnect with friends from FPO and know that we were about to board an 18-hour flight to South Africa to begin this incredible journey serving our Father on the field.

We also got a brief visit with Jeff, one of my closest friends from FPO, as his plane to Tanzania was leaving shortly after ours. The first leg of our marathon flight was 8 and 1/2 hours to Dakar, Senegal, on the west coast of Africa. It went by surprisingly fast, considering I didn't sleep a wink. We were only to be on the ground, but not off the plane, in Dakar for just over an hour. As we prepared to depart for Jo'burg for the second 8-hour leg, there was a mechanical problem that kept us on the ground, and the plane, for about 2 and 1/2 hours.

We finally got off and, thanks to some generic Dramamine, I was able to get a few hours sleep before we got to South Africa. As we approached Jo'burg, the pilot informed us there was rough weather between us and the airport that may cause some problems and turbulence...that was an understatement. We began our decent and I thought we were on a roller coaster...our big Boeing 767 was being tossed around the air like a toy while we could see lighting strikes all over the dark clouds around us. The pilot attempted an initial approach but quickly had to lift back up because the weather was so bad. He made a loop and tried again but still couldn't get in safely so we made a larger loop around the city to give it a try from a different direction. This apparently worked, although it was still a bit chaotic until we got under the clouds. The Lord is so good as we finally made a safe landing at the airport in Jo'burg. Praise the Lord for hearing and answering our prayers during those intense moments!

I was greeted at the airport by some fellow M's here in Jo'burg and enjoyed a tasty mexican dinner at Darrell & Elaine's flat. I love mexican food and thought I wouldn't eat another enchilada until I go back to the States so I this was a great surprise! We visited for a while then I went over to Stan & Nancy's to call home. After that, I was ready for bed but with a seven-hour time difference and jet lag, I was wide awake at 4 a.m. UGH. But the day has been good, I had breakfast at Greenstone Mall (very nice) with Barry & Linda and Alvin & Jane, then picked up a few groceries for the next few days while I'm staying at the BIMS guest house. It's been a relaxing afternoon, which was much needed, catching up on some rest and watching a movie on my laptop.

God is so good and has placed some great people here to take care of me and make me feel welcome. Praise the Lord, may His name be great and exalted in South Africa!

"Hallelujah! For our Lord God Almighty reigns. Let us rejoice and be glad and give him glory!..." - Rev. 19:6 - 7

A few more days

2008-10-12T02:15:00.000+02:00

In less than a week, I'll be moved into my Joburg apartment in South Africa, trying to adjust to the seven-hour time difference and getting over the jet lag of being on one airplane for 18 hours.

These final days at home, or rather, visiting friends and family have been tough. I knew it would be hard but I never expected it to be as emotionally challenging as it has been. These days are all about transitions and change, something I need to get used to if God has plans for me on the mission field more than a couple of years.

The toughest goodbye so far came Tuesday morning. My best friend in the world, Nick Dorsey, moved to Louisville, KY, in August to start seminary at the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary. Thanks to some banked frequent flier miles, I flew to Louisville last Saturday to hang out with Nick for a few days while he's on fall break. Nick and I met each other in 2003 through a student ministry and have been best friends ever since. We have literally travelled the world together on mission trips and vacations. We've shared more adventures, seen more places and experienced more things in the past five years than most people experience in a lifetime.

We have grown together spiritually, worked together, gone to school together, served at church together...the list goes on and on. But now, God has chosen our paths to split for a time. He has led Nick to Southern for seminary and is leading me to South Africa to serve there. What is so great about this is that, while we are on two different continents, we are still working together for the glory of God and sharing the same greater goal of reaching the world for our Savior.

I've never had a closer, better and more faithful brother and friend in my life than Nick. Nick was an answered prayer of several years that God put in my life at the most perfect time, for both of us. The few days we got to hang out in Louisville this week were sweet and I'm grateful for that time God gave us as we set off in different directions for this one common goal.

Things will and are changing and it's one of the toughest things I'm going through right now but I'm confident the Lord will keep my best friend and I closely connected over the next couple of years. There is no one in this world who I admire, respect and love more in the ministry than Nick. He is one of a kind and I'm richly blessed to have him in my life. I look forward to many more adventures God has planned for us in this world. Nick, you're the best. Thank you for being my best friend.

"Jonathan said to David, 'Go in safety, inasmuch as we have sworn to each other in the name of the Lord, saying, 'The Lord will be between me and you, and between my descendants and your descendants forever.' Then he rose and departed, while Jonathan went into the city."
- 1 Samuel 20:42

Reflections

2008-10-05T15:41:00.000+02:00

FPO ended Wednesday afternoon with a great time of fellowship, prayer and worship in our commissioning service. It was all bittersweet as our time at ILC came to an end and we bid farewell to each other.

Over the past couple of days, I've reflected on FPO and how God changed me. One thing I realized is how I took that time for granted and was far to eager for it to be over and be on our way. I never expected the goodbyes to be so tough, after all, most of us only knew each other a couple of months. But during those couple of months, something really special happened. God brought all 363 of us to ILC at the same time for us to walk together on this humbling journey and blessed us with a special bond that we'll never have with anybody else.

I absolutely love my FPO family and consider my friends there some of the best I'll ever know. They are some of my favorite people in the world (literally) and I miss them terribly but I know the Lord will always keep us connected in our hearts, prayers and the work He is sending us to do.

Even though I miss them, I'm enjoying my time with family and friends at home. We had an early Thanksgiving at my grandparents' house Friday night and it was such a special time with my family. Saturday morning, I flew to Louisville (where I'll be through Tuesday) to see my best friend, Nick, who is in seminary here. It's a blessing to see how God has helped Nick get adjusted here and surrounded him with great friends at Southern.

Pray for me and my FPO friends as we continue saying our goodbyes these next couple of weeks that we'll be able to show our family and friends how much we love them.

"Ask and I'll give the nations to You, O Lord,
That's the cry of my heart
Distant shores and the islands will see Your Light
As it rises on us"
- "You Said"

So long Rockville

2008-10-01T05:18:00.000+02:00

After nine and a half weeks in Rockville, VA, for FPO, this chapter of my journey to South Africa comes to an end tomorrow. I say it all the time but I can't believe it's come and gone and two weeks from Thursday, I'll be on a plane to Joburg.

So many times I thought FPO would never end. When your in the middle of it, sitting in sessions for hours, time can pass slowly. We've all gotten settled and comfortable here but it's time to pack up and move through another transition.

This experience would not have been the same without the people here and especially the ones who God blessed me with the privilege of building close friendships with. I stand amazed at the work of God and his provision during this time and the brothers he gave me to journey through FPO. I could never say enough what these guys mean to me and I pray our Lord will keep us connected on the field.

No doubt tears will be shed tomorrow and Thursday as we leave ILC. But I'm ready to see my family and friends at home who I love so much. I'm especially looking forward to my trip to Kentucky to hang out with my boy Nick.

These next couple of weeks will be exhausting for me, physically and emotionally. Let's hope the exhaustion will catch up with me Oct. 16 and I'll be able to sleep much of the 24 hours of flying I have before me.

"Give thanks to the Lord, call on his name; make known among the nations what he has done. Sing to him, sing praise to him; tell of all his wonderful acts. Glory in his holy name; let the hearts of those who seek the Lord rejoice."
Psalm 105:1-3

Last full week of FPO

2008-09-23T03:42:00.001+02:00

So almost two months ago I arrived here in Rockville, VA, ready to begin one of the first major transitions of going to the mission field. At the time, nine weeks seemed like a long time but now that it's almost over, I wonder where the time went.

But here I am, these final days at ILC for FPO with the IMB for my ISC term (gotta love those acronyms - wait, is correct?) finishing up last-minute details and attempting to finish my seminary assignments before the weekend so I can enjoy those final precious days with some of the most incredible people in the world. Going in to FPO, I heard from previous missionaries the friendships made here are the best part and what they remembered most. I was a bit skeptical but not anymore. Sure, it's tough living in an isolated place with more than 300 people, spending all day together, eating most meals together and socializing together. But if it wasn't for these close quarters and walking this journey together, we wouldn't have built the close relationships we have.

One thing I'm finding comfort in when I leave next week is I'll be reconnecting with most of my friends going to Central Eastern & Southern Africa about three weeks later. Actually, after I've said my goodbyes at home (which I'm also not looking forward to) October 16, I'll meet up with my buddy Jeff (who has been a God-send at FPO) and one of my new extended families, the Warren's, in Atlanta. The Warren's and I will be making the 18-hour flight to Jo'burg together (praise the Lord we're on the same flight!) and Jeff will be boarding his plane to Tanzania just after us. Less than a week later, most of us will be back together for another month in Zambia for 40/40 on-field training.

I am ready to see my parents (happy birthday, dad!), grandparents, Keilani & John, aunts and uncles, three beautiful and incredible nieces (Beth, Kati & Holly) and of course, my incredible friends who I've missed so much.

Here are some pictures below from my latest trip to DC and a special African meal we prepared last week. Enjoy and thanks for reading!

Me & Chris (Shay)

Jeff, Jessie, Me & Matthew outside Nando's in DC

Our DC team - Jeff, Me and the Warren's

The Smithsonian National Museum of African Art

Cooking team at the Allen's - Me, Jeff, Roxie & Eric

Making something African, but I forget what

Stirring ugali

Ugali (after nearly an hour of stirring)

Three more weeks

2008-09-11T04:16:00.000+02:00

My time here in Virginia is quickly wrapping up. Three weeks from tomorrow, I'll be saying goodbyes to new friends and going back to Arkansas to start packing, say more goodbyes and get ready to move to South Africa.

These past couple of weeks at FPO have been draining. The next three days aren't going to be any better as my group starts Security Contigency Training. We haven't been told much about it, other than to relax and not worry. All I know is we will be taught, through role-playing, how to deal with various "security threat" situations we could encounter on the field. These days are sure to be long and intense but once over, the last couple of weeks of training will be over before I know it.

Despite my ADD and lack of energy, God is teaching me and drawing me closer to Him daily. I love my Jesus because He loved me so much that He gave His life for me and died a horrifically brutal death because of sin. But death couldn't hold Him down. He defeated sin. He defeated death. And He walks with me daily, even when I am selfish and don't think about it.

I praise the Lord for rescuing me from my sin and depravity. I praise the Lord for dying for me. I praise the Lord for choosing me. I praise the Lord for His grace and mercy. I praise the Lord for calling me to Africa. I praise the Lord for giving me strength to overcome. I praise the Lord for holding me when I'm weak. I praise the Lord for my incredible family. I praise the Lord for my friends from home who have been some of the greatest blessings in my life. I praise the Lord for my friends here at FPO, especially those who I'm not sure I would make it through without them here. Father, may your name be great among the nations as you send us out in this world. I love you. Amen.

Half-way

2008-09-03T04:51:00.000+02:00

We are officially at the half-way point of FPO and over the weekend, I was definitely feeling it. Over the last few days, I've really been anxious and ready to get to Africa. I've enjoyed the time here in Virginia at FPO but sitting in sessions all day, although the information is great, can be draining and my ADD doesn't help matters. Thankfully, God has blessed me with some incredible friends here to sympathize with and to encourage when I have my down moments. I'm so grateful for that (thanks, Tank).

Tomorrow, Tom Elliff, a vice president with the IMB, will be here conducting sessions on doctrine. I'm especially excited about Tom being here as his brother, Bill, is my pastor at The Summit Church in Maumelle, Ark. When I first began the application process with the IMB, Bill got me in touch with Tom, who served several years in Zimbabwe. Tom and I emailed each other a few times throughout the process as I was discerning God's call to serve through the IMB and specifically in Africa. I'm looking forward to meeting Tom and hoping that Elliff humor and wit will show up.

Tonight at dinner, I got to visit with this sweet lady from Missouri named Luella who is here at ILC with a team from her church, prayer walking the campus all week, praying for each one of us. She is 80 years old and still active in missions! She and her husband served an ISC term with the IMB in Taipei, Taiwan, from 2001 - 2003. Luella shared with us that her husband was a pastor and she was a school teacher. They promised the Lord when He was ready for them to retire, they would commit the rest of their lives to serve as volunteer missionaries and she is definitely keeping her promise! She and her team are not finished with their mission once they leave here. They're going up to colonial Williamsburg and Jamestown to prayer walk that historic area of our country. What a blessing Luella and her team is to us! By the way, during our visit we discovered that I'm staying in the same apartment (22C) here at ILC that Luella and her husband lived in back in 2001 when they went through FPO!

So six weeks from this moment, I'll be on an 18-hour plane ride to Johannesburg, South Africa. It's getting so close and I get more excited every day! I know these next few weeks will fly by, I just pray I'll enjoy every second of it and not just count down the day until I'm off to Jo'burg. God is good...

FPO week 3

2008-08-24T05:12:00.000+02:00

I've officially been in Virginia for four weeks now...time flies! FPO has been going strong for three weeks, with only five and half weeks to go, meaning I move to South Africa in just over seven weeks.

This week, we had sessions on Church Planting Movements (CPM) and the book of Acts...good stuff, although I do have a hard time staying focused at times. We also got our bank accounts set up and had our first round of immunizations. I only had two this week, polio and hep A. The shots and bank stuff gave us a couple of afternoons off which was much-needed.

I have just about everything ready for my Visa application after just finding out about it last week. I got a good report back on my chest x-ray (no TB) so that was definitely an answered prayer.

As I've said before, FPO gets a little crazy sometimes with all we have going on here but this last week, God has really opened my eyes and heart to an opportunity while I'm here. I've had some time to reflect on various roles in ministry over the years and of course, college and student ministry has been a staple in my life for a while now. I love discipling people and I feel like God is allowing me to do that here with some awesome people getting ready to go to the mission field. Just in the last couple of weeks, I've enjoyed getting to know some truly incredible guys who share my passion for reaching the nations. It's been a great blessing to hear their stories, how God brought them to this point and just hanging out. In the end, I'm confident I'll have learned much more from them than vise-versa and I'm grateful for these friendships God is building.

"Heal my heart and make it clean
Open up my eyes to the things unseen
Show me how to love like you have loved me

Break my heart for what breaks yours
Everything I am for your kingdom's cause"

lyrics from "Hosanna"
Hillsong United

FPO week 2

2008-08-16T04:46:00.000+02:00

It's been a great week at FPO, lots going on, a bit overwhelming at times, but God is good. We started the week with Dr. Jerry Rankin, IMB President, who presented three days of sessions on spiritual warfare. Jerry and his wife, Bobbye, spent many years on the field and no doubt have countless stories of praise, hardships, and funny moments that only missionaries find themselves in. They are down-to-earth and just great people.

One night this week our regional leaders, Bob & Linda, had all 30 plus CESA members over for dinner. It was such a good night of fellowship with our extended family and I think we were all happy to get off campus to hang out and visit with each other.

Thursday night, I had my first official class meeting for my second seminary course, Principles and Practices of Missions. We had some good discussions but after being in sessions all day and then having class until 8 p.m., it's a bit tiring but good nonetheless.

Today, we had some short sessions and were done by 2 p.m. so it was really nice to have the afternoon off.

So a couple of months ago, I received my travel information to go to South Africa and didn't have any instructions about getting a Visa, other than it would all be taken care of once I arrive on the field. After talking to some other people going to South Africa, I discovered I had not received some additional information regarding some furthur medical documentation and state background checks needed to apply for my Visa. Needless to say, I've had a couple of stressful days sorting that out. I have to get a physical, a chest x-ray for tuberculosis and a criminal background check from the state of Arkansas.

One of the many great things here at ILC is the medical clinic. I stopped in this afternoon and found out what I need to do to get this stuff taken care of and hopefully, Lord willing, I'll be good to go soon. And thanks, Melissa, for helping me out with the background check, all the way back in Bryant! God is so good!

Last Saturday, me and some friends from FPO went to Washington, DC for the day (this was my second trip). My friend, Jeff, has a friend at the White House who gave us a little special treatment. Jeff's friend, Grant, gave us a nice tour on the grounds of the White House and gave us a little history about the place. Grant gives tours inside the White House but he can only take a few people and only had one spot open so Jeff got an awesome tour inside. The coolest part for him though was getting to walk the Bush's dog, Barney. So check out the picture below of Jeff and Barney Bush!

I also posted a picture of my bulletin board, which now has pictures on it thanks to my mom and some artwork by my niece, Beth.

Sarah, Jeff, Susan, Me & Josh in front of the White House

Jeff holding Barney Bush, the president's dog

My newly decorated bulletin board in my quad

DC trip & my quad

2008-08-04T03:11:00.000+02:00

I rode the Amtrak up to DC this weekend and met up with my friend, Courtney McKeown, who just moved to Philadelphia to work for CityTeam Ministries. A cool part about being in the northeast is that all the big cities are fairly close to each other, DC was only about a two hour train ride.

We walked all over the city Saturday afternoon and saw most of the big stuff...Ford Theater, Capitol Hill, The White House, Washington & Lincoln Monuments, National Archives, etc. Saturday night, we scored some great tickets for only 25 bucks to a Washington Nationals/Cincinnati Reds baseball game. Our seats were by first base, just a few rows behind the dugout. Sunday, we ate lunch at Union Station and Courtney headed back to Philly and I took a train back down to Virginia (thanks, Heath, for getting me to/from the train station).

I was able to move into my quad this afternoon at ILC. This is where I'll be staying throughout FPO. I'm in quad 22, part of the "Africa Village." All the quads have four or five small "apartments" in them. Each apartment has a bedroom, kitchen, bathroom and laundry room, then we all share the greatroom.

I would appreciate your prayers this week as FPO begins Wednesday morning and I'll also be taking my final from my class last week, plus beginning my next seminary class in conjuction with FPO.

Here are some pics from DC and my quad:

Quad 22

Our greatroom

My kitchen

My back door

My laundry room

Ashland, VA train station

The National Archives - Washington, DC

Me and Courtney on the National Mall - Washington, DC

WWII Memorial - Washington, DC

Washington Monument - Washington, DC

Capitol Building/Capitol Hill - Washington, DC

Lincoln Memorial & Reflection Pool - Washington, DC

The White House - Washington, DC

Washington Nationals baseball park

Nationals/Reds game - Washington, DC

Nationals scoreboard

Courtney & I in our awesome seats - about four rows behind the first base dugout

First class and some pics

2008-07-29T02:01:00.000+02:00

I had my first day of seminary today...8 a.m. - 5 p.m. It really went by fast, our professor is good and we took frequent breaks. Southern Baptists have an interesting history but I'm looking forward to the more recent events of the convention. My professor, Dr. Greg Wills, from Southern Seminary, is from Arkansas and knows my pastor, Bill Elliff. It's always funny when I meet somebody in a random place and we have mutual friends.

I also got to talk to Nick on Skype tonight. That was cool. I have a high-speed internet connection in my room today so that's been really nice, hopefully it will stay considering it wasn't working yesterday and most of today.

So here are some pictures of ILC where I'm staying. Very cool place, nice and quiet and secluded from the rest of the crazy world.

Habakkuk 3:2

The pond

Gazebo and pond

Africa Village quads

World fountain outside international center

Back at ILC

2008-07-27T22:07:00.000+02:00

This is my first attempt at blogging so let's hope I'll stick with it. So I woke up at 5 a.m. this morning to catch a 7 a.m. flight to Cincinnati, then on to Richmond, VA. I got to Richmond just before noon and made it out to the International Learning Center (ILC) in Rockville shortly at 1 p.m. I got checked into my room in the Europe House and unpacked all my stuff. It's really nice out here on the "farm" out in the middle of the Virginia countryside. Very quiet and secluded. I've been hanging out in my room all afternoon, reading and got in a short nap but dinner is at 5 p.m. and after that, I'll probably go for a run and maybe take some pictures to post.

Tomorrow I start my first seminary class through the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary (Louisville, KY) as part of the Master of Arts in Theological Studies - Intercultural Leadership (MATSIL) program I'm doing. The first class, which I've already done a lot of reading for and taken some online quizzes, is Southern Baptist Heritage. The reading has been pretty interesting, especially the missions part, so I think the class will be good. My second class will be Principles and Practices of Missions and I'll do that over the course of my Field Personnel Orientation (FPO). I'm currently registered for another class, Survey of Systematic Theology, that meets the week after FPO, but I'm thinking about dropping it and taking it online a bit later. If so, I'll be back in Arkansas a few days longer before I go to South Africa.

As for my timeline from here on out, I'll be in Virginia until October 8, or sooner if I drop the other class. I'll get to spend some time back in Arkansas before I depart for Johannesburg, South Africa, October 14. I've committed to a two-year assignment with the International Mission Board (IMB), serving with a team in Jo'burg but have the option to be there three years if the Lord so chooses. After I serve my term in Jo'burg, I'll go to Louisville, KY, to complete the MATSIL on campus at Southern. After that, I'll go where the Lord wants me.

Habakkuk 1:5