Passion!

T. Alan Armstrong, said, “Champions do not become champions when they win the event, but in the hours, weeks, months and years they spend preparing for it. The victorious performance itself is merely the demonstration of their championship character.” The passion to compete and win forms the character needed to thrive in arenas where skills and strength are tested. Many long for the notoriety and rewards of the champions, but few have the sustaining passion which forms the winner long before the public contest.

Old Testament victors, Gideon and David, come to mind when I think of the quiet, lonely preparation for contests each fought and won. Many would relish the fame, others were equally gifted. But, only a few change the course of history because of the passion preceding the contest.

Pat and I share a deep desire. We long to make a significant contribution in the generation emerging into leadership. The very young adults who will participate in “The Next Generation” learning-growing experience at Highway Tabernacle - Resurrection Life this summer represent a new era in urban Christian leadership. Because we are deeply convinced that Alvin, Brittany, Kayla and Zachary have amazing potential as servant leaders in the decades to come, we are giving our effort to raise awareness of the needed ministry of “The Next Generation.” We will be in churches throughout the Midwest, securing funds, and enlisting many to pray.

Our travels begin tomorrow as we head toward Green Bay, WI for services at First Assembly of God on Sunday. Wednesday, May 18th we will be in Elkhart, IN with Pastor and Mrs. David Lade, who served as interns with us in the late 1980's. And, then we will travel to Michigan to minister at Troy Church of the Nazarene on May 22. Between pulpit ministries where share our we will share our passion to develop another generation of Pentecostal servant leaders, we will meet with pastors and friends, repeating our story again and again.

Before we return home on May 22, we will have driven approximately 2500 miles; stayed with relatives, pastors and in a couple hotel rooms; and eaten few home-cooked meals. Of the 300 hours we will be away, less than 3 hours will be in a public arena, a pulpit. If we succeed, our performance will be a demonstration of endurance and desire that overcomes fatigue and natural desire for ease. Please pray for our safety as we expect to be behind the steering wheel more than 50 hours. Pat’s health remains fragile and travel is especially difficult for her. She is taking this trip, in part, because we have not seen her father for many months and he will be 90 years-old on his next birthday!

Please remember to pray daily for Alvin, Brittany, Kayla and Zachary. WHEN I WORK, I WORK. WHEN I PRAY, GOD WORKS!