Looking back at our week with the pastors and wives in Uganda, there are a few people and things that stand out in my mind:
Moses, a man who was once a Muslim and became a Christian. He once had six wives. He has been chased and persecuted and threatened by Muslims and had to hide at times. Yet, here he was, at the conference with his wife and baby son. They dedicated him to the Lord during the conference.
Elvis and Ruth – This couple had been praying for years for a child. 2 years ago at the retreat, when he was 37 and she was 33, they approached Debbie and I and asked if we would pray for them so that God would grant them a child. We did. That was in 2017. We were not at the retreat in 2018 but I saw some friends from Uganda last June and I asked about Elvis and Ruth. They said, “Oh, you didn’t hear? They have a son!”. Yes, Ruth became pregnant shortly after we prayed for them. We got to see them and hold their baby this week. God is good!
We each sat in on panel discussions, Debbie with the ladies and I with the men. We also together sat on a panel with several other couples. There are some great questions that are given anonymously. It is always beneficial for everyone in attendance. It is also interesting to see the cultural differences that exist between American and African culture. Some of the questions and answers would not be relevant in American culture. So, it is always a learning experience for me.
I enjoyed my times of teaching. I thought they came across clearly to the folks in attendance. I was glad to be there.
Of course, I was invited by several of the leaders to go to their cities and conduct leadership seminars. Who knows what will develop? I will prayerfully consider each request.
On the last night of the conference there was a wonderful banquet, where most all of the pastors and wives dressed in their colorful best. Each couple entered the banquet hall to the sound of a live band and danced along a red carpet to their table. It was really fun! There was music, delicious BBQ, prizes and more.
There were pastors in attendance from Uganda, Nigeria, Kenya, Rwanda, Tanzania, and one or two other east African nations. We were blessed and privileged to be there.
By the way, Debbie was a big hit with the women and she spent time interacting with them, praying, laughing, and caring.
Well, that’s it for now. Thanks again for all the prayers.
David