Please don't send me to Africa
I don't think I've got what it takes
I'm just a man; I'm not a Tarzan
Don't like lions gorillas or snakes....

I suppose it is evidence of God's sense of humor that last year I married a woman who spent two decades of her life as a missionary in Africa. We've talked about that chapter in Valerie's life, and I think she actually agrees with those lyrics; she's not sure I would have had what it takes either! Africa is out there; it is a needy mission field, but it is a field for others. Or so I thought until I read this morning's email.

The email was from a colleague with BEE World in Colorado Springs. A couple of years ago I completed the writing adventure that became The Christian Life, a part of BEE World's training curriculum. I remember submitting the last revisions, breathing a sigh of relief, and praying that it would produce fruit for God's kingdom. Attached to this morning's email was a note addressed "To the author of Christian Life book." The email explained, One of our ministry partners is involved in... training pastors from various African countries and the note is from one of the students from that group.  We want you to be able to share in our joy at how this course is touching the lives of students all over the world.



Apparently God did send me to Africa. I just didn't know it.