Lost In the Bush

This past Sunday we were invited to preach at a church that was located deep in the bush. My friend Kevin had previously tried to reach the place a couple months earlier but couldn’t get through because of the heavy rains. Neither of us had been there before so we took a few Zambian men to act as a guide along the way.

As we reached the second hour of our journey we realized that we were definitely lost and had no idea where we were going! Obviously, the natural reaction in such a case would be to simply ask for directions! Although, one thing that I’ve found here in Zambia is that people will always give directions (and confidently, might I add) even if they have no idea of how to get there!

Down on the Farm

While traveling through Lusaka, we were able to stop by a farm! The girls had a great time with all the animals! They had, pigs, ducks, chickens, cows, peacocks, goats and horses! They were a little frightened of the horses at first, but as long as I (aka: Big Strong Daddy Man) stayed close by, all was well! It was a great trip full of many new sights and smells and in the end we all had a greater appreciation for Purell! Below are some pics and a video of Natalie and the Horse-Cow!

Again in Kitwe!

It’s been nice to visit Kitwe again and catch up with family and friends. The church is doing well and is steadily growing! Over the next couple of months the leadership structure will be transitioning from my father to a Zambian pastor. The building project is also moving forward and the roof is almost completed! Apparently, they’re waiting for the remaining roofing sheets as they’re being shipped over from China! Once they move into their new building, they’ll be in a much nicer location and will have easy access in reaching The Copperbelt University. Please continue to pray for this body of believers! Click on the link below to see a few pictures!

March, 2012

2012 is shaping up to be a great year! The family is well, we’re expecting our fourth child in October, language lessons are moving along, many ministry opportunities are opening up, and some friends are coming to visit in a few months… good times! We really do appreciate your prayers and support!  Thank you so much for your sacrifice that we might be able to minister here in Zambia, Africa!

Nchwala Ceremony

People from all over Zambia are now making their way to Chipata for the Nchwala ceremony. A few thousand people are expected to come from the surrounding area as well as many tourists from around the world. I was in town today and couldn’t help but notice all the people that have come for this anticipated event. Some of the main highlights will include plenty of singing, dancing, and story-telling. The festivities will reach its climax with the spearing of a black bull and the drinking of its blood by the paramount chief.

This tradition dates back before the arrival of the British in Central Africa.  The ritual itself was meant not only as a celebration for the harvest in late February but also as an offering of thanks to god and a tribute to the spirits of their ancestors.

While many would argue that this occasion is just a reflection of Zambian culture, it seems like it embraces much more than that. One Zambian told me that he didn’t think it was right to continue in a ritual of such pagan origin if Zambia was truly a “Christian nation.” While his opinion certainly doesn’t reflect that of the majority, it was nice to see someone who was trying to look at the situation from a Biblical viewpoint.

Team Missions

Another good question to ask if you’re interested in becoming or are already a missionary is whether to work alone or with a team. There’s really no right or wrong method with this topic and there’s pros and cons to each choice. Obviously, the secret for team missions is having the right people involved. A group of unified people all working together for one cause have a lot more going for them than the one solitary missionary who’s all by himself. Although, on the other hand, a team of missionaries with strife and division can turn out to be your worst nightmare and will send you running for the hills faster than a hyena on the African prairie!

February 14, 2004

Eight years and one day ago, Lisa and I made our vows to each other and were pronounced man and wife!  Each year that’s gone by has only deepened my love and appreciation for my lovely bride. The other day we were reminiscing over some wedding photos and remembering our special day. Lisa looked beautiful as ever and I looked as thin as a pencil! It’s amazing how it seems like another lifetime ago in a galaxy far, far away!  So much has happened since that day and we’ve literally traveled thousands and thousands of miles across the world and back! The Lord has blessed us with a beautiful family and we look forward to another great year together. Below are a couple pics!