richardwollard

Local District Leaders

Well, it’s after midnight in India. We got back late last night and I was to wiped out to write up a summary. I was going to wait until tomorrow to write up today’s summary but then thought if I don’t do it now, it won’t happen! Isn’t that always the case.

I got into the hotel at midnight Tuesday night. The rest of the Converge and TTI team came in Wednesday morning and we met for an overview of our time together. The team was broken up into regional and district leader team trainers, and I am working with the district leaders. More on that later.

The first half of the day was administrative and relational, and then my team headed out for a 7 hour round trip excursion through Krishnagiri and Burgoon to visit and encourage local church plants and leaders. The weather turned bad and we did not get to meet with the first local congregation, but we had a fantastic time with their leadership team.

There were several people at the next church who had just committed their lives to Christ, so the village was really a buzz. Because foreigners (like me 🙂 standout so dramatically, they did not want to draw too much attention, so we weren’t able to meet with the open-air congregation. Again, we had a fantastic time with the local leaders.

The trip was long, but I had some very fruitful conversation with my team while we were traveling. The relational dynamics can be very complex, so I was grateful for the time to process through my list of questions.

My internet connection is cutting out and I’m about to pass out, so I’ll update today tomorrow morning. The spirit of God was moving today and we were all blessed beyond belief. I can hard wait to share with you! Thank you for your continued prayers.

On the journey together,
Rich

So, I’m sitting at the airport waiting to depart for India. Funny thing is I am already standing out culturally! As I look around I am reminded that one does not have to travel to have a cross-cultural missions experience – our mission field starts right at home!

I’m continuing to work through my teaching outline for the leadership gathering where I will be leading several sessions. I’m torn between be “prepared” and just waiting to see what God gives me when I get there. It is a great mystery being prepared and waiting, and somehow think it is a combination of both. Be prepared, but wait on God.

I enjoy the wait most of the time, but somehow that goes against our nature, especially here in the US. There is a tenancy for us, and by that I also mean me, to want to be in control. It feels exciting to be in a position of “not knowing!”

Carolyn asked me what time my flight got back on the way to the airport, and I chuckled and said, I’m not sure! This past week, I must have been asked hundred times if I was ready for my trip, to which I replied, “Well, I have my passport and visa, my Bible, a ticket and clean underwear, so I guess I’m ready!”

Of course there is more to it than this, but it sure feels good stepping out to wait on God and what he has in store. Psalm 73:28 says, “But for me it is good to be near to God, I have made The Lord my refuge, that I may tell of all your works.” This passage gives me strength today, and I pray it encourages you, and our Springbrook Church family!

On the journey together,
Richard