I loved teaching again on Sunday morning. I translated a portion of my recent message in English, based on Romans 15:20-21…
“and thus I make it my ambition to preach the gospel, not where Christ has already been named, lest I build on someone else's foundation, but as it is written, “Those who have never been told of him will see, and those who have never heard will understand.”” (Rom 15:20-21, ESV)
My week of personal visits has opened some doors that I was praying for. It looks like I will be busier with FaceTimes and Zooms than I have been. I desire to be closer to people in ministry in ways that support and encourage. I hope to promote the kind of deep unity Paul constantly preached about… in Romans and elsewhere. We need that to effectively continue our outreach in this spiritually dark world around us.
“eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.” (Eph 4:3, ESV)
One pastor had an interesting proposal. “Next time you come, why don’t you present something on leadership?” My gut reaction was, “Nah… I prefer a one-on-one format.” But actually, most of what I would say to each one would work just as well in a small group. So, when I get home from this trip tomorrow, I’ll try to follow through on his proposal. I’m already praying about when, and about how to keep it informal and properly focused. Spoiler alert: this will not be about honing mission statements, organizational skills, or pulpiteering. We need shepherds’ hearts, empathetic people skills, and Jesus-quality, hands-on compassion.
I was especially uplifted by two conversations over the last few days. They confirmed for me how God’s grace does keep us close through the years… sharing a common vision for ministry… but mostly recognizing how the Lord has knit our hearts together in him and his redeeming love… Not just uplifting, but humbling too.
How can I describe life here? Nothing will replace you actually being here with me for a season, but here’s an inkling… Late August in Cancun is when life is too hot, too loud, too hectic, and traffic is way too slow… background noises everywhere, always, never quiet… in restaurants and other public settings. Heat melts checklist bullets like cheese in a fondue pot. Everything runs together, takes more time to complete, and leaves me drained long before I make it home. I have great respect for tamales. They are steamed under pressure until thoroughly cooked, and then they taste really great. Me? I just stink.
“For every high priest chosen from among men is appointed to act on behalf of men in relation to God, to offer gifts and sacrifices for sins. He can deal gently with the ignorant and wayward, since he himself is beset with weakness.” (Heb 5:1-2, ESV)
Thank you for serving the Lord and for your humor while doing it !!!