Sunday, February 15, 2009

Trip of a Lifetime




I (Roger) have just returned from a 15 day missions trip to Sierra Leone and Liberia, Africa. I had the honor of traveling with two other pastors/friends from our district, Dr. John Connors (veteran missionary) and a team from Colorado (Liberia only). I cannot begin to describe (in a few words) all that I experienced and how my life will be changed forever. I am very grateful for our district, our home church and over 100 personal prayer partners who made this possible.
God kept us safe from Spitting Cobras (spotted within yards of where were staying - and no anti-venom or 911 or Lifeflight) and a King Cobra (one of the guys saw before it saw him), traveling 35+ hours in the air (delays for repairs), traffic (they make Michigan drivers look good), being in remote villages (back in the middle of nowhere), and three major customs checks (with no hitches). We met incredible men and women of God who are sacrificing greatly to share the good news of Jesus. We witnessed hundreds coming to Christ (1/3 being adults) through the showing of the Jesus Film (even a village chief turned from being a Muslim to Christ). We shared in two pastors conferences and I had the high honor of being the first white man to ever preach an ordination message in Sierra Leone (I hope I'm not the last).
But when asked my most memorable experience of all - without hesitation I say, the children - I will never forget the children. They live in devastating poverty following two civil wars (the last one as recent as five years ago). They have so little but are so happy. In contrast, Americans have so much and are so... I thank God for this great opportunity. If you'd like I can provide hundreds of picture and a journal to share more. Most of all, please pray with me for our new friends in Liberia and Sierra Leone that these deeply committed men and women of God will reach the millions for Christ.

4 comments:

Amee P said...

Dad, thanks for posting about some of your trip. We are glad you are home safe and cant wait to see more pictures and hear more stories. I know your heart is full. We love you!

Greg and Amee'

Tony said...

It' looks and sounds like you had the trip of a lifetime. I can relate a little on how the children and people bring real meaning to John 10:10. Can't wait to see more pictures and here more stories.

Love ya, Tony

Jillynn said...

Anxious to hear more & read more about your trip! What an incredible opportunity! We rejoice in your safe return and commit to praying for those in whom the seeds were planted.

Anonymous said...

Roger and Sue, I was surfing the internet and came across your blog and I thought I know these people!! You use to be my neighbors in Oak Hill Ohio when you were at the Trinity Church... Not sure if you remember us but the "Leonard's" Katrena and Sharon use to play with Angel and I played with Amee and Anthony. I would love to hear from you and hear how everyone is doing. Kathy.. my email is k.hull@live.com