Riding the Wave
Sunday two weeks ago Doug’s talk was entitled “Monuments or Momentum?” Momentum is the power residing in a moving object and Jesus was clearly that momentum as he came into Jerusalem. In contrast, monuments, while they do serve to remind us of important events in the past, are places we visit not places we choose to live. The temple in Jerusalem became a monument preserved by the religious establishment. Jesus brought a momentum into the temple that challenged the status quo.
We are excited to be part of something here in Kenya that is bursting with momentum! Last year the Vineyard movement planted 10 new churches! We now have 68 Vineyards in Kenya. Momentum is also defined as the power of the moving object to overcome resistance. Last week Doug met considerable resistance as he traveled about Western Kenya – police harassment at two different roadblocks, three flat tires, mechanical breakdown, and a torrential downpour with flooding and almost impassable road conditions. Great fun!
Spiritual momentum provides us with the muscle to sustain growth. This year, we already have three additional plants starting and are projecting other start-ups later in the year.
While we are thrilled with the growth we are cautioned by Einstein’s words, "Not everything that can be counted counts, and not everything that counts can be counted." We do not simply want more churches, but mature leaders. We are privileged to be part of the process of deepening the faith of men and women leaders. Maturity is built through deliberate and sometimes painful steps forward as we follow Christ, hopefully building momentum along the way.
The photos are from Doug’s two recent trips to Western Kenya (Kisii, Kisumu, Eldoret) over the last three weeks as he met with pastors and led a seminar.
It is hard to believe that we will be in the States in less than a month! We are excited to be with friends and family. Grandma is especially looking forward to seeing our granddaughter!
Upcoming events to pray for:
Doug conducts a leaders retreat in Mombasa, April 13-16
Sue will speak at the Women’s Conference on April 21-24
Doug and Sue will facilitate a workshop at the Pastor’s Conference in June
Doug will speak at the National Conference in August
