A few months ago, I got a message from Pastor Kelly Goins of Watts Bar COG in Decatur, TN that he would be visiting the UAE to celebrate their 25th anniversary. Started by Kelly's  parents (Ken & Connie), this church has supported our ministry since 1995. Although I was not sure they would want to do ministry while on their vacation, they both jumped at the opportunity to share in one of our churches. It was a great night of worship, preaching & even a time of encouragement for our workers in the church.

Their visit was also a great opportunity for us to get to know them more personally. Although we are distant cousins, we never grew up around each other & have never had the chance to spend any real time together. We were truly blessed by every moment God gave us with them. We also thank God for giving us an opportunity to cultivate a relationship with family: both earthly and in Christ.

In April, I also attended the ribbon cutting ceremony of the renovated COG guest house on the Mt. of Olives that will now be used as a ministry training center. Dr. Tim Hill & Dr. John Childers were in attendance along with several other visitors from COGWM. During the time, a door opened for our family to attend this year's COG General Assembly in Nashville. Previously, we had not planned on going due to the cost of airfare from the UAE to the US, but God made a way where we will be able to attend & not take the funds from our COGWM account. It was an unexpected surprise, so now we will be in the US from June 28-August 20.

Also during my time in Israel, I met with one of my former students who has an incredible ministry to Arab people throughout the world. I cannot say too much, but I was overwhelmed at what God is doing in places & among people who appear to have little evangelistic activity. Since my visit, we have already been able to connect through my student's ministry to people in our own neighborhood. Doors are opening & God is moving even when you cannot see Him at work.