Extreme Poverty Overflowing into Generosity, and Another Adventure Begins

July 17, 2015

"Mike, it is a blessing to have you and your friends worshiping with us today," was the welcome that Tyler, Rod, Harold, and I received from Pastor Philip while attending the worship service at Tabernacle of David in Chinhoyi during our trip in May. What transpired next continues to blow me away. "Mike, God is directing us to give our entire offering today to your ministry," he informs us, stunning me as I shed tears of disbelief and joy, holding a bag full of money.

He said God had been laying 2 Corinthians 8:2 on his heart in the midst of the current economic situation in Zimbabwe. It is probably the lowest point that the country has been in, with the closing of so many companies this year due to the scarcity of cash and lack of investment into the country. This has been brought on by new government policies. Through these very trying times, we are witnessing God develop deep faith in Himself among His people in Zimbabwe. What a blessing for us to experience what Paul spoke of in 2 Corinthian 8:2, "In a severe test of affliction, their abundance of joy and their extreme poverty have overflowed in a wealth of generosity."

Rod, Tyler, and Mike (back row, L-R), Pastor Philip and wife Hanilee, and Harold (front row, L-R)

This update is long overdue. Thank you for your prayers for the men who joined me on my last trip! Thomas, Life to Life staff from Florida, and Tyler, an ISU student, invested a lot of time in ministering to the young people in Chinhoyi, which infused the team with enthusiasm.

Thomas (back, middle) and Tyler (kneeling at right) with the LTLA Ministry Team at Chinhoyi University of Techonology

Rod and Harold, from Hopevale Church in Michigan, worked tirelessly to prepare the triplex building at the Community Center so we can house more young people for ministry training. The electrician, Mr. Phiri, whom Rod worked with, joined us for morning devotions. He said, "I have heard things that I have never heard before." He wants to continue reading the Bible with the men in Chinhoyi.

Harold Tiling the Bathroom

Rod Wiring for Electricity

While there, 3 more men from the Men of Hope group entered into a relationship with Christ! Further evidence of what God is doing through severe affliction in Zimbabwe. Do pray for these men to be established in their new faith, and that their joy in Christ will draw others into life that is everlasting.

Harold and Ron (L-R) standing with New Believers in LTLA's Men of Hope Ministry:
Misters Ephraim, Philiko, and Marume (L-R)

The triplex building that Rod and Harold worked on so diligently can also house visiting groups, which will happen July 18 - 28 when a group of 7 from Hopevale church comes to serve. These 2 women and 5 men will help break ground on the new Life Discipleship Center, along with engaging in ministry activities with the LTLA team. I will also be traveling to Chinhoyi with the group from Hopevale, and will remain through August 7 to work with the LTLA team there. Pray for safety, productivity, rich fellowship, and learning for all involved as we experience God working in and through us.

Grader Leveling the Site for the Life Discipleship Center