May 19, 2023

Ministry in the Small Things Believe it or not, it has been 10+ months since I arrived in Sydney. I'm feeling more and more at home here, especially as relationships deepen and ministry opportunities increase. Effective ministry often happens in the unplanned occurrences of life. Of course we must live our lives -- plan our lives -- in such a way to encourage those unplanned occurrences. Some of my opportunities lately include: I started a bicycling club at Harbour City Church.  Our third outing is this weekend, and so far has been a great opportunity to deepen relationships and to invite unsaved friends. Each member of Harbour City Church staff spoke on various topics at our recent church retreat under the theme "Fully known, truly loved." Relationships in my men's growth group are deepening.  I'm encouraged by the transparency of the young men. I spoke on "handling difficulty questions" about the gospel at a recent university ministry event. THANK YOU for your continued prayers and partnership in the gospel! Calendar June 8-26 I'll be in the States for the PCA General Assembly in Memphis (6/12-15), with a quick weekend in Jackson prior to GA, and then some time in Iowa with my mom. Prayer Points City Sanctum: A new steering committee has been recruited and started meeting earlier this month. We anticipate rebooting ministry meetings in August. Australian Visa: Pray that my application for a two year worker's visa will be approved soon. Application was submitted several weeks ago. Island to Island Forum: Praise God for a successful gathering of ministries in the South Pacific island nations. It was an encouraging time of dreaming and planning for cooperation in ministry to strengthen the churches of the region. WPC National Assembly: Praise God for the opportunity to attend the recent Westminster denominational meetings in Brisbane, learning much about the challenges and opportunities within our partnering denomination. 2023 Missions Trip: Pray for development of a church missions trip I will lead at the end of the year -- location and ministry.