Our quick pace seems to be catching up with many of the team members. A few are fighting colds and others are tired, low on energy, or simply slowing down. Despite this consensus, each team member joyfully joined in the tasks for today.

First, we had the privilege of participating in a conference on discipleship hosted by GBC and RBC on the RBC campus.  It truly was a blessing to see the churches at work equipping their people to live flourishing Christian walks. We were thankful for the warm invitation.

Jimmy, Jon, and Josh all taught a session with worship in between each. It was a joyful time, both listening as they sang in their heart language (Chichewa), and joining  our voices in praise together in English.

Josh first spoke on the what and why of discipleship—what discipleship is, and why it’s important. We should expect our spiritual investments to bear great eternal fruit.

Next, Jon spoke about the who of discipleship. Who should disciple and who should be a disciple. The answer is everyone!

Last, Jimmy taught on the how of discipleship. How do you disciple? No matter what form discipleship takes, whether it is making disciples in evangelism or formal structured discipleship, the key is LOVE.

Today we also had the unique opportunity to visit the men’s prison. This experience went deeper than it may sound on the surface. Our dear friend, host, and missionary partner, Newton, spent time in this very prison after a car accident. These men, these prisoners, this place, is close to his heart. He wanted so badly to share it with us, and we were grateful we able to participate in this important piece of his story.

We were ushered in through two layers of barbed wire—between where the prisoners stand and where the visitors wait to see their loved-one.  They shout over the two sets of rusty fences to converse with their visitors, hoping their voices don’t get lost in the sea of voices, longing to connect.

Blessing gave a passionate gospel presentation, pleading for the prisoners to follow Jesus today, and to be set free. They sang for us, we sang for them. It was impactful and unforgettable.

It wouldn’t be a trip to Africa without power outages, broken water pipes, and flat tires and we have had our fair share. Each team member has born those inconveniences with grace and patience. God is good!

Zikoma!