As always, the mission venture to Africa was nothing less than a success. Salvations and healings were numerous, and perhaps for the 1^st time, a significant number of ministers expanded their understanding of Christian theology and biblical interpretation.

Although no one truly knows the hearts of men and women who profess to receive Jesus into their hearts and lives—only God knows with certainty—many professions of faith were made over the 2 week period. As best as the team could tally, over 200 salvations were declared and more than 100 healings were experienced.

Before concluding, there is something else that warrants mention. Christians are always well-served when they depend on God as their plans begin to unravel. Two weeks before the team’s scheduled departure for Africa, Michael was contacted by Regional Director Stephen Kaindu, who informed him the leadership conference scheduled to be held in the Democratic Republic of Congo had been abruptly cancelled. The pastors had waited till the last moment to inform Stephen that they expected to be paid to attend the conference; an amount that could have easily exceeded $2,000 USD. Stephen knew he had no other option but to cancel, which was the appropriate action to take. To his great credit, the schedule’s gap was almost immediately filled in with what worked out to be a most suitable revised itinerary. More was accomplished than would have been done in the Congo. Well done Stephen! God’s work will not be thwarted.

If there’s a single truism that best summarizes a mission trip to Africa, it is likely “Expect the unexpected.” Never fear when things appear to go awry. In all likelihood, God is at work to get you on track with Him. If you’re going in His name, then you are doing His work in the manner He desires it to be done—a good thing to remember abroad and at home.