
Though the Fig Tree May Not Blossom
Though the fig tree may not blossom, Nor fruit be on the vines; … Yet I will rejoice in the LORD and joy in the God of my salvation.
Though the fig tree may not blossom, Nor fruit be on the vines; … Yet I will rejoice in the LORD and joy in the God of my salvation.
What a joy it has been to be able to look back and witness God’s work, protection, and guidance in every step taken throughout the past 25 years. From day one, when we first started, till this very day, we have seen and first-handedly felt God’s presence in our lives and in the lives of the people we served and partnered with.
We gathered to celebrate His faithfulness before ours. We gathered to celebrate the power of His gospel to change lives rather than our persuasive efforts. We gathered to celebrate His love and compassion for the brokenhearted rather than our acts of service. It is with humility but also with great responsibility that we say all this.
Middle East evangelicals must emulate China.
So stated Nabil Costa, chief executive officer of the Lebanese Society for Education and Social Development (LSESD), at his organization’s 25th anniversary celebration, held last week [Oct. 27] at LSESD’s Beirut Baptist School (BBS).
I was privileged to be a participant at the Loving God and Neighbour conference which was a time of great blessing and inspiration. Along with nine others I had the additional privilege of being invited to be part of a listening, or review, team with the task of contributing to Thimar’s review of strategic priorities for the next stage of ministry. This created the challenge to listen, not only to the speakers and panellists, but also to friends and supporters who shared their experiences of working in partnership with Thimar.
What a joy it has been to be able to look back and witness God’s work, protection, and guidance in every step taken throughout the past 25 years. From day one, when we first started, till this very day, we have seen and first-handedly felt God’s presence in our lives and in the lives of the people we served and partnered with.
Engaging in ministry in the Middle East necessitates not only a Gospel-shaped vision and unwavering dedication but also the aptitude and tenacity akin to that of a funambulist—a tightrope walker navigating the precipice that lies ahead.