While in Brazil, I was preparing to teach through the book of Romans. Since Paul penned the letter, I was studying his life and passion. I came to Romans 15:20 and the Holy Spirit spoke to my spirit about unreached people. God placed a “holy ambition” in my heart. Holy because it was from Him and His word. Ambition because it is a deep seated desire and motivation. The work we were doing was fruitful and continues to be necessary but I felt a call to “unreached” people. After discussing with the missionary there, then a doctor friend, it appeared that I was being led to the Amazon and scheduled a trip there the next time the doctor was to go.
In the meantime Susie’s dad had a heart attack and we needed to make an emergency trip back to the states. I sent word to Tim Patterson that we would be stateside. In the second week of our stay, Tim called and asked to meet with me and get an update on the work in Brazil. We agreed to meet in Evansville. Pat Hood, Kyle Goen and Leslie Overby came as well. As we ate lunch, I shared about my experience totally unaware of what God was doing in our church regarding Bangkok. Pat explained how our church was being led to Bangkok on a church planting mission as well as start a training school. They needed a leader for this team and he felt that I was a good fit. This was the answer to my prayers and there was a peace in my heart about this but I was unsure how Susie might respond. In short, she said yes and we left our belongings in Brazil and we’re really excited about leading the Bangkok team. God has been shaping me for His mission and I wait in expectation to see all that He does.
Being part of a “sending church” model is very encouraging as well as Biblical. When we served in Brazil it was considered a “partnership” model but I still felt accountable to our church. Now, as we journey to Southeast Asia, I sense the support of our church family in a powerful way and take seriously being the representative of our Lord and LifePoint.
“and thus I make it my ambition to preach the gospel, not where Christ has already been named, lest I build on someone else’s foundation” Romans 15:20
