Doha Report

A brief - and very sudden - trip to Doha, Qatar proved to be more successful than I had imagined it would be. Though there weren't too many people in attendance at the church I preached in (a little over 150 would be my estimate) I've been invited to return and conduct week long growth retreats at quarterly intervals to the entire parish, beginning January 15, 2007.

What I found very heartening to see during my visit was the fire that burned in the hearts of the people there, especially those who had helped organize this visit. When hearts burn with such intensity, it is nearly impossible not to set those nearby alight. I am going to enjoy my visits to this lovely little country.

Know God, Love God, Serve God

In a wonderful move towards achieving Christian unity in the UAE, the Good Shepherd Prayer Group in Jebel Ali had invited the main Charismatic prayer groups in the country for a day's program at Jebel Ali Church on October 23. I was one of the three speakers at the event, and though Abu Dhabi was conspicuous by its absence, the program was well attended by others. I pray that such initiatives continue because they help build up the body of Christ.

Soon after the program I headed off to Doha, Qatar to conduct HSI's Discipleship Program.

The HSI Guide to Personal Prayer

On August 31, nearly 160 people took a vow to walk the path of holiness and spend a little time each day building up a personal relationship with God in prayer. Though the intention was undoubtedly sincere, not many were able to translate it into practice. One of the biggest obstacles that most faced was how to spend that time with God. I felt that a little booklet teaching them how to spend this time would be a good idea and began putting together some of the things I had learned. The result: The HSI Guide to Personal Prayer.

I had thought it would take me two days to complete; it took me two weeks instead. But the results are satisfying. The booklet is priced at USD 1 + shipping, if required.