A friend of ours, whom we respect and whose
opinion we hold in high regard, recently introduced Louise and myself to a
group of strangers as “kind of
rock stars in Anglican missionary circles”. My first reaction was: YIKES! What
will these people think when they actually get to know us? My natural tendency
is to wrestle Paul for first place as chief of sinners…not as a rock star!
Of course, as
missionaries, it is wonderful to have friends who serve us as our “champions”
and who see us through lenses so vastly different from our own. We are grateful
for those who make us and our ministry known to others, because they see
something of value in what the Lord is doing in and through us. But rock stars?
I jokingly chided him
for the undeserved title and he responded in good humor, but pointed out in all
seriousness that in the Kingdom we should all be rock stars because Jesus is
worth it. Serve Him with everything you’ve got to give. If that be the case, then
yes and amen! We are quite happy to rock on!
As you know, Louise
and I have been driving around a few States visiting our family, many old
friends, making many new friends, preaching and speaking in churches and small
groups…and now we are at St Christopher Camp and Conference Centre…still
networking, but also enjoying the Lord and His beautiful creation in this part
of His world. We hear our Lord saying to us, “Come aside and rest a while…”
There is a cross here
that means a lot to us, as it was here that our Lord first called us back into
the mission field…a special place…a thin place…and He continues to speak and
lead and guide.
Of course we are
anxious to return to the field. Our team at “Growing the Church” has written to
ask when we are coming back as there are many in the 28 Diocese who are ready to
begin with the Discipleship course…a course designed to disciple others to
disciple others to disciple others. As we will be working in seven different
southern African countries, this ministry is massive and has the ability to
reach thousands.
But here’s the rub: we
still need to raise more support before we can return. Would you pray with us?
If you haven’t already, would you help us by signing up as a financial supporter?
Please ask the Holy Spirit to lead you in this…we desire His blessing as much
as yours.
SAMS-USA has said that,
based on the cost-of-living guidelines for Southern Africa, our monthly financial need over the
full length of term will be $6,295.50. We will also need about $20,000 for our vehicle and
transport fund as we will be travelling quite a bit to six different
countries…of course, we will have to sail to St Helena. J
Every
penny counts…every penny…
We still
have a number of stops to make before we can return, but we are praying for a return
date in early April.
OR…make checks out and
send them to:
SAMS-USA
P. O. Box 399
Ambridge, PA 15003
Please be sure to
clearly state that the check is intended for Johann and Louise van der Bijl.
If you wish to support
our vehicle/travel fund, do so via check only and write in the memo
line: van der Bijl vehicle fund
We are grateful for
the role you play in our lives and in the lives of those we serve. We pray for
you regularly and appreciate you very much.
As always, we are only
an email away…please write to us should you have any questions or concerns.
Every blessing and
tons of love.
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Johann and Louise van
der Bijl
