‘When the servant’s wish and the master’s call coalesce, it will happen.’ This was the glorious and timely assurance ministered by David Campbell to the 600 or so who attended this year’s Grace Baptist Mission Annual Mission Day on 27 October.
David’s message, which closed the day conference at the Renewal Centre, Solihull, was not one of triumphalism. Rather, skilfully and gently, taking Acts 23.11 as his text against the backdrop of Paul’s desire to preach the gospel in Rome and the journey there, David reminded us that God’s plans always come to fruition and yet so often happen very differently from how we expect.
Fitting conclusion
The message was not only a personal comfort to many as we were reminded of the way the Lord stands alongside his servants, but also a fitting conclusion to a day in which we were reminded of these very truths in the missionary reports that we heard, and as we bade farewell to Chris and Helen Hawthorne to work in Zambia [See the fea- ture article on p.12].
God is at work
Those attending heard of opposition to gospel witness, whether through increasing political opposition in China or extremism in West Africa. Yet God is at work, with his servants under intense pressure at times, but the church is being built, his Word sent forth.
As Jason and Andrea Murfitt shared the conclusion to their 12 years in Brazil, they spoke with the hindsight that illuminates the unseen hand of God’s providences in disappointments and unexpected opportunities.
Even now, as they look to the Lord’s leading as they explore their desire to church plant in Madeira, they see providential connections opening up. Our God is not distant – he continues today, in our lives, to be on the move.
Embracing uncertainty
A highlight for many was the opportunity to hear Phil and Monika Newcombe speak humbly and honestly about the lessons of a time unexpectedly cut short in East Africa. Again this theme of not being afraid of uncertainty in our lives, but trusting that God’s purposes are sure and good, came across. As the couple spoke of the personal challenge for them of embracing each new day that God gives, even in a context of uncertainty, we realised we were not simply being informed, but ministered to in our own situations of uncertainty.
There was much more than this report can cover in any depth, including sessions for young people and children and the opportunity for some hands-on experience with the 100fold ministry, which creates technology to reach the unreached.
I came away from the day encouraged and strengthened for the opportunities and challenges of our own situation; encouraged to see old friends, encouraged to sing with brothers and sisters, young and old of the glorious gospel, but most of all to see again that the sovereign God is with his people gathering his harvest. So, to work, brothers and sisters! And as David Campbell said: ‘Be of good cheer.’
