The water of the Awash River in Ethiopia was cold but the enthusiasm was more than warm
– it was very hot with anticipation and expectation. There was a discernable buz among the more than 150 new Christians who had walked many miles to be baptised. Over many weeks these new Christ followers from all backgrounds and experiences were taught the significance of being baptised. So, they were ready! What a privilege to participate with other pastors in blessing these new creations through their baptism.

In the past I know that I have touted Unite 4 Africa as being special – a ministry that accomplishes so much of what it sets out to achieve. But I have to add that U4A is really more than special – almost supernatural. I see their influence in the eyes of everyone the ministry touches. I see hope and heart and energy and love for brothers and sisters in the faith and outside the faith. Because of their work entire communities are transformed as are the short term ministry teams that visit. There is so much that is accomplished for the Lord and through the Lord and His sovereign touch on the leaders and workers of U4A.

There’s something else…joy. I’m convinced that Jesus touches those we minister to through us. He enables us to minister out of joy and its like a virus that spreads inexorably to every girl and boy and man and woman we meet with a joyousness that grows and spreads. The joy they receive marks them as His and cannot be shaken. Their heart’s desire is to know Him more…to know Him better…to know Him as it says in John 17:3, “And this is eternal life, that they know you the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom you have sent.” Unite 4 Africa is helping that become a reality.