Back with a bang - peace from Africa

These wonderful paintings were my Christmas present from my loving wife, Megan. I absolutely love how they evoke elements of the peace, sense of belonging, and beauty of Southern African living. Thanks Megie!

Well, tomorrow it is back to work! It was Voltaire who said 'Work banishes those three great evils, boredom, vice, and poverty'. I am truly thankful for my work and ministry.

I'm starting with a bang. This week I'll be in Knysna for some strategic planning, then a Directors' stay over at Bergkroon just outside of Paarl, then off to Johannesburg for meetings with Heartlines, the 'For Good' campaign, Religious leaders forum and government around ethics, then off to speak at the Seth Mokitimi orientation at the University of Kwa Zulu Natal in Pietermartizburg. In the days between I shall savor every minute I have with my family. They are such a precious gift. My holiday seems over far too quickly, and it will certainly pull at my heart to leave them (even to go my office down the road, let alone elsewhere in the country!)

I have a few overseas trips on the cards for 2009, some new places (mainland China, Thailand) and some returning visits (England, Latin America, Hong Kong, Korea and possibly the US).

One thing I am sure of is that our Lord offers me courage and comfort to work for unity in the Church, influence change in society, mediate renewal in business perspectives, and push boundaries between persons who have entrenched themsleves in their corners of conviction (whether conservative, or liberal (like me)...) I understand the weaknesses of others because I am so prone to them myself. As Paul says in Phil 3:13, it's not that I have already attained these things, or been made perfect; but I forget what it behind and strain forward to take hold of the prize for which Christ Jesus has called me.

Thankfully, whenever I return to Africa I find blessing and peace with Megie, Courts and Liam. I am perhaps the most fortunate person alive! I have an incredible family, a remarkable and stimulating vocation, the a knowledge and love for the One who gives me all these things as a gift of grace.

2009 looks to be a good year! Please pray for. We have much to do, many demands to face, and a lot to learn.
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