Consolidation

One dictionary definition of consolidation is "to make strong or secure; strengthen". After the excitement of our initial two weeks of door-knocking, we deliberately decided to slow down and build strong foundations - following up on those who had either come to faith, or had at least been warm and welcoming. Where opportunities permit, we look to start groups, embryonic churches, with both established and brand-new believers. We immediately train everyone in how to tell their own story, and how to share the Gospel, and help them think about who they could share with or train! Where the contact is warm, but uncommitted, we see where the relationship goes, always hoping to share Jesus with them. There is always the fear that people will have cooled in between visits, and indeed this does happen sometimes, which is always a disappointment. But sometimes we discover that when we return, God has been busy! One lady we visited initially claimed to have no story to tell, and on 2 or 3 occasions when we went back for various reasons she could not meet with us - but last Wednesday evening she welcomed us in. The conversation included her son, a guy in his 30's whose life was going nowhere quickly! They both received the Gospel message with joy, and responded to our questions with humble delight. "Would you like to receive forgiveness for your sins?" Bowing his head, this young man who is well known to the local police, and has been battered by both life and acquaintances many times over, sheepishly and quietly replied, "yes, please." There and then mother and son surrendered their lives to Jesus, and a new church is born!

As we meet with new followers of Jesus, as well as training them, we take time to listen and allow their stories to unravel. We have learnt of a sister who committed suicide; a lady who years ago was involved in something so horrific she had only ever told three other people - and us; and celebrated with one new believer who for the first time in many years has not used cannabis since he gave his life to Jesus some weeks ago. As we step out, we discover time after time that we are merely catching up where God has gone before!