So, right now I’m chilling in the Adrift cafe, enjoying a
beautiful view of the Nile
River while monkeys run
across the roof overhead and jump into nearby trees. Seriously, who needs a zoo when you
live in Africa? Anyway, this has been a crazy
and incredible month. No electricity, no running water, and not a lot of living
space, just some righteous contacts and a month loaded with eternal impact.
I
remember one day of ministry when we traveled to a small town roughly 30
kilometers from Mbarara. We spent most of the morning in the hospital singing,
preaching, and praying with the people there. Faces always brightened to see a
young crew of mizungus singing to the lead of an acoustic guitar. There werent
any stories of miraculous healings, but for a crowd that needed hope, I think
we were just what the doctor ordered.
Later
that day, we into the market to preach the Gospel. With an audience of a few
dozen gathered around us, we sang songs ranging from dancing in the river to
praising God to the less-than-delightful effects of malaria. The crowd grew.
My team leader Kelli Verhoeven then stepped forward
and spoke about the story of the prophet Jonah. Emily Molloy followed
discussing the love and faithfulness of Christ. And I wrapped it up preaching
on the emptiness of a life invested in the things of this world.
Coming to
the end, I presented them with the Gospel. Then I gave the altar call, If
anyone would like to commit his life to Christ this day, please come to the
front. To my bewilderment, three people made their way to the front. I could
hardly believe it. I mean, I prayed for the message that day. I prayed that God
would use it to fill His house. I preached with all the passion and energy I
had. So, did those before me. But, I didnt honestly think that some would be willing
to give their lives to Christ right then and there!
I led
them through a prayer of faith and that day Francis, Margaret, and Peace gave
their lives over to Christ. I was especially struck with one Francis
conversion. Hes an older gentleman probably in his sixties, and as I would
later find out, he hadnt touched a Bible since college. He was so sincere
about giving his life to Christ. He thanked us continually for coming and said
that he should be able to save up enough money for a Bible in a months time. I
prayed for him and encouraged him to join a local church. I will never forget
the look on his face. Christ had moved in his heart.
That day
was epic. This month was epic. Technically, we probably led over thirty people
in a prayer of faith. Personally, I think a little less than ten were truly
genuine about it. But still, one month of ministry and God uses us to bring six
people to the Lord. Not to mention, several great conversations with Muslims,
numerous prayers for the hurting, dozens upon dozens hearing the Gospel, ministry with the kids, Bibles purchased for those eager to read it, chairs
purchased for the church, and a great deal of other ministries. Honestly, I
think this was our most impactful month on the Race yet.
So thank
you! For all of you who have supported me through finances and prayer, your
resources are blessing the world! Through me, you have made and continue to
make a real difference in the lives of real people. Thank you.
This next
month is Manistry in Rwanda.
The eight men of O Squad are coming together for a month of adrenaline-infused service,
testosterone-fueled activity, and spiritual growth on steroids. Things will
die. The kingdom of food will be annihilated. And Jesus will be exalted amidst
maniacal cries of midnight tribal dances. Ok, maybe not quite that much.
But Ive been given the opportunity to serve this
team by assuming the role of team leader. As such, I am requesting an extra
dose of prayer for this month. I need wisdom. I need more of God and less of
me. I need His grace and humility. I want to serve and lead well. So please
pray for me.
Hopefully,
we will have easier access to the internet this month so I can keep you updated
on all the happenings in Rwanda.
But yeah, thats pretty much it. We leave tonight, so please be praying for us.
I miss you all. God bless guys.
Your brother,
Seth
