August 20, 2012

 

Dear :

 

Each time I travel to Africa, I am more and more aware of the seed that has been sown before my arrival...of the sacrifices of mighty men and women of God, who have labored for years in the harvest fields before me...men like David Livingstone, who gave his life traversing the unknown territories of the "Dark Continent," from 1841-1873.

 

Scottish medical missionary and explorer, Dr. David Livingstone

As a medical doctor, Christian missionary and explorer, famous Scotsman Dr. David Livingstone reached tribal leaders, townspeople, children, merchants, and warriors with the love of Jesus Christ for more than 30 years from coast to coast in Africa, preaching sermons to audiences large and small...explaining Who Jesus is to anyone who would listen.  During his ministry, David experienced much pain, discouragement, physical difficulty, privation, near starvation, numerous deaths in his family and of fellow missionaries on the plains of Africa, with very few converts -- only one or two, that he could definitely say had been changed by the Good News of Christ.

 

But, Dr. Livingstone persevered, and though he died on the field, having truly given his all for the cause of Christ, yet realizing little of the impact he would have on the world, he was a faithful servant of the Most High God, determined to fulfill his ministry, no matter the cost.  We know that he is joyful now in the very presence of the Lord Jesus...and, I believe, joyful to see how many millions of people in his beloved Africa have come to know the Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ! 

 

Amy and I walk in the shadow of such great men and women of God.  The soil has been tilled, sown, and watered...the Word of God is powerful, like a two-edged sword... and that Word changes lives!  We rely upon the power of the Holy Spirit, to preach the Gospel here at home, as well as to the "uttermost parts of the earth."  As we travel to South Africa tomorrow, August 21, we are so grateful for the provision and privilege of preaching the Gospel, of ministering in His Name, and of telling others how good it is to know Jesus. 

 

One of David Livingstone's most famous quotes carries with it an urgency and challenge which compels us to listen and respond:

 

"I go back to Africa to try to make an open path for commerce and Christianity; it is for you to carry out the work which I have begun.  I leave it with you!"

--- David Livingstone

 

Thank you for praying for us, for standing with us as we seek to do the Father's will, and to fulfill the ministry to which He has called us.  You are vital part of all that we do; thank you for your prayer, your support, your love and friendship, which mean so much to us!

 

Pray with us as we minister in South Africa, August 21-September 4.  We will have the opportunity to speak to thousands of students in the Acornhoek area of the Limpopo Province, to minister in local churches, and Amy is especially excited to have the opportunity to minister through teaching and leading worship at a special women's retreat in Sabi Sands, near Kruger Park.  We look forward to sharing with you wonderfu reports upon our return!

 

Your friend and partner in the Gospel, 

 

      

David Stockwell

 

Romans 1:16 ~ "For I am not ashamed of the Gospel of Christ, for it is the power of God unto salvation for everyone who believe." 

 

David Stockwell, President

David Stockwell Evangelistic Association

P. O. Box G, Katy, Texas  77492 USA
281-391-8777

david@davidstockwell.org
www.davidstockwell.org