I would like to continue with the report of our recent trip to Lebanon and the USA. Your prayers were appreciated so much, and the Lord certainly did answer prayer in an unusual way.
Lebanon was such a highlight and blessing of our trip. But the second phase would not be any less rewarding, the fiftieth anniversary of Temple Baptist Church which I established fifty years ago.
Pastor Jones planned a three-day celebration for the occasion. Five of the seven living pastors were present (one pastor is with the Lord). As a twenty-two year-old single preacher I experienced the normal trials and difficulties in founding a new work. There was no financial support extended by any church, not one dollar. I never even considered the matter at the time and simply looked to God for what was impossible for me.
To hear the other pastors tell of their struggles, trials and victories, and to see the church now was, indeed, a rich and exhilarating experience in the grace of God to that church. I’m so thankful for God’s guidance in sending me to El Dorado fifty years ago and for the small part God allowed us to have in that ministry.
Pastor Jones and his people made us feel like we had played such an important part, though we know that our contribution was so very small. We left the anniversary in El Dorado with a song on our lips and praise in our hearts to our wonderful God for His faithfulness to weak, unworthy vessels whom He has honoured with such a privilege. 1 Corinthians 15:58 seemed so vibrant in our consciousness, “Be ye steadfast, unmoveable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labour is not in vain in the Lord!”
Missionary Outpost 