(Wednesday, Jan 10)

Time for a little honesty here (not that I’ve lied in the past). Some of these trips are a bit more challenging than others-this is one of the more challenging ones. I can’t put a finger on it, but I’ve been very aware of how much time until I get to come back to Hudson (right now it’s 3 am local time, about 31 hours till we start our cross-country drive to an airport). Sleep is really strange, and I FaceTimed Carol and sent a few texts during this time frame.

There has been a lot of “this many days ‘til I go home” this trip. It means a few things. This travel can be difficult and sometimes I simply want life to be easier. I not only have 31 hours left, but approximately two years and thirty-one hours! This is the third course of nine that we will offer our Ugandan friends in the church. The plan is as follows:

May 2024–The Gospels (Mark)

Oct 2024–Poetry (Psalms and Proverbs)

Jan 2025–Epistles (Ephesians)

May 2025–Prophecy (Isaiah)

Oct 2025–Apocalyptic (Revelation)

Jan 2026–Summary-doing the ministry of the Word

I’m feeling pretty fresh right now at 3 am, the challenge is how will I feel at 8 am, when it is time to teach?

So, I struggle some. But it’s very important you hear the following: what I am doing is a privilege of the highest order. While some of these trips are difficult, I am joyfully committed to continuing them. I am not ripped off in what I am doing: multiple eight-hour flights and jet lag on a 65-year-old body is not fun, but I will, God willing do all the trips above.

To work with these (mostly) young pastors and church leaders, to hear their stories and see their hunger is a gift. To be able to help them be more effective as most of them have had zero formal training as they lead their flock is important. So, while I count the days until I get back to Hudson, it’s not too long before I start counting the days until I get back to Uganda!

I am keenly and gratefully aware of my partnership with you, FCC! First of all, you pay for my trips. Secondly, when I FaceTime Carol and she tells me about a leak in the dishwasher, I text one of FCC’s handymen and he responds that he will call Carol and get on it. I am far away, but I am far from alone. Thank you for supporting me as together we build up the church in Uganda.