International Partners in Christian Ministry

As with previous mission posts, the final entry is written form a first person perspective. This post is penned from the viewpoint of Dr. Michael Lanier, the Executive Director of IPICM.

To call the IPICM 2014 mission trip to Malawi, East Africa, a success is an absolute understatement. While many mission trips limit their scope to constructing churches, schools, and perhaps the occasional orphanage, among other things, the team that visited Malawi this year was blessed to far exceed the norms accomplished by most short-term mission ventures. With this in mind, I can’t help but wonder if the experiences shared by our team weren’t meant to be the norm rather than today’s exception.

I pray you’ll indulge me for a moment. I myself applaud building programs if they are part of a greater whole, however, I sometimes wonder if as Christians, we don’t too often fall short of what heaven expects us to do. After all, Scripture regularly addresses the need for reaping the harvest (Mt 9:37-38), healing the sick (Mt 10:7-8), and visiting those who are in prisons (Mt 25:39-40). While building projects are certainly meaningful, they’re not the end all when it comes to the missionary call. So I can’t help but wonder if Christians shouldn’t set their sights a bit higher. In my mind, if we are faithful (1) to carry forth the gospel message (2) in the power of the Holy Spirit—as we are clearly told to do in Scripture—the resultant increase in numbers of believers will yield more indigenous people capable of generating their own building programs. Oh well, this is just a pet peeve rediscovering its annual platform. Please forgive me.

Back to my main point before I so rudely interrupted myself, no one can fully know all that was accomplished on this trip. Who can calculate how many lives were touched; how many afflictions are no longer suffered; how many souls were snatched from Satan’s horrid kingdom? In the end, only God knows and he most likely will not share such knowledge this side of glory. But what we do know is this:

• Somewhere around 10,000 individuals heard the gospel message.
• Approximately 2,200 souls were saved.
• An estimated 2,600 healings came to pass.
• People from two continents came together to affect the work of Jesus Christ.
• Many new friendships were forged.
• The lives of 7 missionaries were forever changed.

If you were a prayer partner, or gave financially to IPICM or one of its team members, I think I can speak for all the team. Thank you so very much for caring and getting involved. Today, there are many new brothers and sisters in Christ, and many others who no longer suffer physical affliction, thanks in part to you. May God bless you.

Dr. Michael Lanier, Executive Director

6/30—7/5

Monday was definitely anything but a day of rest following the grueling schedule of the previous two days of church and crusade ministry. The team made its way to Ngabu—a sprawling, sleepy community in the south of Malawi. That night, they were scheduled to begin the first of two nights of crusades on a stretch of land nestled between the New Covenant Church and the highway that cut through the heart of the community.

Nearing nightfall, the Champions in Christ praise team and two nationally renowned guest Christian singers, fired up the amplifiers and musical instruments. The crowd of an estimated 500 exceeded the limits of the sole light above the platform, as most faces disappeared into the dark of night. Cars and bicycles lined the highway as many looked on in curiosity. Harrison brought the message with an estimated 250 seeking salvation and another 50 receiving healings. What a powerful and joyous night it was.

Tuesday’s ministry was much like the previous day’s, only it began a bit earlier. Again, the singers sang their songs heavenward. This night, Michael brought the message to the crowd of about 600. In response, approximately 300 responded and 100 were healed. But unlike the previous night, those many souls seeking healing pressed in on the healing team, so much so, it seemed as though they were in danger of being crushed. (At one point, Michael had to be lifted from the crowd onto the platform.) Still, demoniac’s were delivered, the lame walked, and many other healings were manifested.

Wednesday was a travel day as the team made its way northward to the capital city of Lilongwe. Things were winding down and there remained only a single event to be conducted.

Thursday marked the final event before the team returned to the United States. Maula Prison is the largest of Malawi’s 33 prisons. Built for a population of 800, the inmate count well exceeded 2,200 hundred. Many prisoners were clothed in rags; were barefoot; and suffered from problems commonly associated with overcrowding. They ate a bowl of rice porridge once a day; medicines were almost nonexistent; and one of the African team members remarked that inmates were forced to sleep sitting upright due to the overcrowded conditions. With this in mind and before their visit, the team scrounged together about $270 from individual reserves, to purchase soap, rice, sugar, and some soft drinks as gifts to the prison.

On this occasion, Shelley ministered to the women’s section and Scott to the men. Overall, about 111 men and women prayed to receive Christ, and 210 received healing.

On Friday, July 4, the team left behind their many new friends as they made their way home. It will be a long year as everyone awaits their opportunity to return to the land and people they have grown to love.

6/23—6/29

Monday was a travel day as the team moved their base from Lilongwe to Blantyre.

On Tuesday, the team journeyed 2 hours to visit their first prison of the mission trip. Once notorious for throwing unruly inmates to crocodiles, Mikuya Prison was quite isolated from the nearby community of Zomba. Although often lost and behind schedule, the team eventually arrived to find a little under 300 young men between the ages of 18 and 22, sitting neatly in orderly rows in the courtyard on the brick latticed ground. Scott, a prison minister in back home, brought the message to which 277 men responded. Because time was short and it was impossible to pray for the many who needed healing, Michael instructed the inmates in need, to place their hands on the parts of their bodies that needed healing. He then commanded healing. All but a half-dozen were instantly healed. When the team briefly placed hands on the 6, all but 2 received healing.

The next day, Wednesday, following Happy’s and Michael’s appearance on a Blantyre morning television program, team travelled to Bvumbwe Prison in Thyola. Harrison proclaimed the gospel this time with 323 men—virtually everyone present—receiving Jesus. Of that number, 320 were healed in much the same way as the day before. In addition, as Happy was ministering salvation to the gathering, one young man on the front row instantly fell to the brick covered ground, cracking his head and making an audible “thud” akin to the sound of dropping a watermelon on pavement. Was he alright? Happy prayed for his deliverance and the young man immediately regained consciousness and regained his place among his companions with no apparent harm.

That same night, Tom ministered in the Chirimba Assembly of God Church in Blantyre. As it turned out, the night began as a comedy of errors. Not only did Tom get left behind when the rest of the team was transported to the church, due to the mishap, he had only 10 minutes to minister. Nevertheless, 9 souls gave their lives to Christ and 6 were healed.

On Thursday evening, Rodney and Shelley ministered at Champions in Christ Church. Six individuals were healed. Happy and Michael appeared early that morning on the second television program, promoting the upcoming crusade.

Shelley ministered to the women at Champions in Christ Church on Friday. Another 9 received healing. That same morning, Happy and Michael were guests on a third television appearance.

Saturday afternoon marked the beginning of a two day crusade in Blantyre. Following the music ministries of two well-known personalities, and the Champions in Christ praise team, Michael brought the message. Of the estimated crowd of 1,200, approximately 500 souls responded to the invitation that followed. Another 500 received healing new the close of the meeting. Many were healed via the spoken word, but many did not receive their healings until they were prayed for individually.

Sunday morning found the team ministering in three locations—Divine Restoration Church (Tom ministered), Gospel Truth Church (Harrison preached), and Champions in Christ Church (Scott taught and George brought the sermon). In total, 6 adults and 1 child made decisions for Jesus Christ, and 11 healings were manifested.

The second and last of the Blantyre crusade events was held that afternoon. Following a time of praise and worship led by well-known music personalities and the Champions in Christ praise team, Michael again brought the message to a crowd likely exceeding 1,500. Hundreds more came to Christ with another 500 healings recorded.

The team gathered what rest it could that night, knowing the second crusade was scheduled to begin in less than 24 hours.

6/18–6/22

No one quite knew what to expect during the three-week mission trip that lay ahead. After all, this was the ministry’s first go at outdoor crusades. All anyone knew with certainty was that God was about to do a tremendous work—both in the team members and the people of Africa. But little did anyone realize just how great that work would be.

On Wednesday the 18^th of June, the mission team of Shelley Wheeler, George Dossett, Scott Hogue, Harrison Hunter, Rodney Gattis, Tom Stoy, and Dr. Michael Lanier landed in Lilongwe, Malawi. Picked up as usual at the airport by their African partners Happy Gondwe and Rey Malunga, the team did their best to adjust to a serious case of jet lag and absorb what rest they could before ministry was to begin the next day.

Thursday came quick. Already the schedule had changed considerably, forcing the team to be fluid. So with virtually no advanced warning, Shelley was given her first ministry assignment. The invitation came to minister to the Area 36 Assemblies of God women’s meeting. Like a duck on a June bug and without hesitation, Shelley jumped on the opportunity. By the end of the day and out of a group of approximately 50 women, one lady embraced Jesus and about 30 more received healing.

On Friday, the full team traveled across town to the Christ for Nations Church. Michael brought the message with 72 individuals praying to receive Christ. Due to the size of the church, healing was proclaimed from the platform rather than the team praying for individuals one at a time. About 150 persons were able to demonstrate they’d received healing. (As always, every individual seeking healing was encouraged to demonstrate their healing by doing what they could not have done before.)

Saturday found the team ministering at the New Covenant Pentecostal Church, also in Lilongwe. The day was set aside for seminars, prophetic ministry, and a time for healing. During the course of events, approximately 30 children prayed to receive Jesus. The prophetic ministry to about 20 pastors was off the scale. Some of the most detailed and seemingly unknowable revelations came to light. Many of the unveilings detailed descriptions of specific individuals within their congregations—what they were doing and what happened in their lives to cause them to do what they were doing. In effect, prophetic words were aimed at specific people and needs known to individual pastors. Only the Spirit of our God could bring such matters to light. Another 15 individuals were able to demonstrate their healings later in the day.

Later in the day, Harrison was invited to bring a short message at an outdoor meeting sponsored by the Area 36 Assemblies of God Church. Since he was a part of a separate outreach, the number of individual responses is unknown.

On Sunday, the team split up so that it might minister simultaneously at two churches. Tom, Shelley, and Rodney ministered in the main service at Area 36 Assembly of God Church, while Scott ministered to the children. Tom brought the message. Twelve adults and 36 children prayed for salvation, and about 350 others received healings.

On the way to their own assignment, the team of George, Harrison, Happy, and Michael, made a brief stopover to visit a dear friend of Happy’s who was suffering from a leg injury. After ministering prophetically to the friend’s son who was home from college, attention was turned back to the father. With his leg in a brace and having received treatment from the American Hospital for the previous month for an acute case of nerve damage, hands were laid on the man. His resultant healing was immediate as demonstrated by his marching around the room, shedding tears of joy mixed with laughter.

With time running short, the team made their way to the Bible Baptist Fellowship Church, where George brought the message. Following the sermon, a surprising prophetic rebuke of the congregation came forth. Things unknown to the speaker were brought to light pertaining to conditions within the church and in the lives of individuals. Unsurprisingly, the normally sedate church began to show emotions. Could it be the seeds of revival had been sown? Michael called for a show of hands of all who needed healing. In all, 21 hands were raised. After commanding healing to come forth, Michael asked everyone that was healed to come forward to testify one at a time. A short time later, all 21 individuals had made their way to the front to demonstrate their healings! By this time, the church had erupted into joyous shouts of praise with bodies jumping and swaying to the beat of praise choruses now filling the room. Oh that we might see such things in our American churches!

Sunday afternoon found the full team once again at the Christ for Nations Church. Unfortunately, the experience this time was very different and quite troubling for some. Michael was given his time limitation for the sermon he was to bring and there was to be no prayer for healing, as an agenda was already in place. The pastor sent a subordinate to inform the team and then elected not to attend the service until well after the sermon had been preached. Following a musical crescendo, the pastor then made his debut to cheers and great exultation. It was “show time”! The only thing missing was the spotlight. It serves no redemptive purpose to detail the ministry’s oddities (and abuses) from that point on, but they were considerable in number; something Michael will not expose his team to in the future. Nevertheless, somewhere around 50 people demonstrated their healings when the team was allowed to pray for the congregation at the end of the service.

By the week’s end, many people had already received salvation and healing. No one could guess what lay ahead, but in due time, none were disappointed.

“. . . 800 professions of faith and almost 1800 healings”

Writing from a personal perspective, I find it fairly difficult to adequately express the works and wonders Harrison and I (Michael) witnessed over the course of the 5 weeks we were in Africa. Most of the things we encountered truly paralleled many of the events found in the gospels and the Book of Acts, and the occasional tale experienced by some of the more remarkable saints down through history. God is truly the same yesterday, today, and forever, and He is no respecter of persons. Let no one tell you otherwise.

Likewise, there is no way to adequately chronicle either the total number of salvations that were professed, or to count all the verifiable healings we observed. In 2 churches alone, the number of healings exceeded 1,000. In the Mzuzu Prison, almost half of the population came to Christ in a single open air meeting, with both miracles (a paralytic who walked) and healings manifested. Looking back at 5 weeks of posts, by our woefully inadequate tally, there were slightly more than 800 professions of faith and almost 1800 healings. Virtually everyone prayed over was healed with rare exceptions; at least in terms of verifiable healings. And as always, everyone that professed a healing was asked to provide some form of demonstration.

I should also mention how God worked through His servants is almost as remarkable as the works themselves. And it should be noted that all 3 team members’ gifts functioned in different ways. Happy Gondwe (a local pastor and our Regional Director) is a wonderfully talented servant and minister. Repeatedly, God would give him dreams or visions the night before a meeting, which he would write into a notebook the next morning. The Spirit would consistently give detailed information of who He would heal—or minister to in some other capacity—including their appearance; dress; location where they would sit in a meeting; matters they were currently experiencing; and more. Harrison Hunter, my partner in missions since 2007, has notably grown in his own ability to hear the Spirit’s voice and in intercessory prayer for the sick. While still in the early stages of prophetic healing ministry (which is what we call Happy’s gift), Harrison has himself begun to see things of the Spirit with considerable clarity. His prophetic prowess was also greater than at any time I’ve witnessed in the past. Finally, my own prophetic abilities continue. God never ceases to amaze me with such explicit and detailed revelations pertaining to the lives of those He wishes to address. With regard to healing, I seldom lay hands on the sick any more, only because now the emphasis is given to speaking healing—whether to individuals or in a larger setting. In truth, I believe the Lord is training me in this manner because of the plans we have for next year’s mass healing-evangelism crusades in Tanzania and Malawi. With confidence, I believe God equips and trains each of His servants for the specific ways they are to minister in the places where they are placed. This is what we continue to see in Africa and Asia.

As a result, today, there are many people far better off than they were prior to our arrival in Africa. Many broken bodies have been repaired and eternal life has come to many others who knew only death and destruction. Happy, Harrison, and I, have each grown a bit more in our spiritual maturity. Indeed, I’ve accumulated so much on this mission trip in the way of experience and understanding that it will take some time to truly assimilate all that we’ve encountered. But that’s the way of our Lord. We give and we receive. Even so, it’s often hard to know who receives the greater blessing; those to whom we minister or to those of us who serve. As for me, I have been blessed through this experience more than I can currently comprehend.

For the time being, perhaps it is best to leave you with a bulleted summary of what was accomplished.

• The team visited 3 countries: Malawi, Tanzania, and Zambia over the course of 5 weeks.
• IPICM ministered teaching and healing in 7 churches and 1 school.
• Open air evangelism was conducted in 2 prisons and on a school ground.
• The IPICM School of Ministry conducted 6 seminars for church leadership and congregations.
• The Assemblies of God Press in Malawi will print a book based on the seminars, to be written in English and translated into Chichewa and Swahili, and be distributed through IPICM affiliates and the Assemblies of God denomination.

If you prayed for our work, I wish to humbly thank you. If you contributed financially, please know that your gift greatly contributed to the many lives that were changed. I hope you will remember us in the future as well.

Finally, I want to specifically thank our many African brothers and sisters who contributed to so much of what we endeavored to do. Many sacrifices were made and all were deeply appreciated. Thank you from the depths of my heart. I believe God is pleased and our heavenly rewards will be mutually shared for His glory.

May God bless you and His work,

Dr. Michael Lanier, Executive Director

UPDATE  Approximately 3 weeks after my departure from Africa I received this email from our local contact.

7/15—7/18

The time had finally arrived; it was time for the 1^st of a 2 day open air evangelistic crusade at Lilongwe’s Maula Prison. After packing 23 church members into a car and 2 minibuses, along with plenty of bulky sound equipment, the expanded team made their way to the sprawled out prison. Once the evangelists entered the overly crowded facility, they were ushered into a less congested yard. When the time came, praise music resounded and hundreds of ears tuned in to the happenings. On this day, Michael brought the message. Following the word, an invitation was given to which approximately 270 men responded for salvation. Due to the configuration of the prison yard with its sectioned wire fencing, the respondents were compelled to pray for forgiveness in 3 groups, with the lion’s share standing before the speakers and praise team.

Next, Michael queried “How many of you need healing in your bodies today?” Virtually every hand of those receiving salvation went skyward. “Although many of the rest of you didn’t request salvation today, you too can come forward for healing” he continued. Several more joined the 3 groups gathered in adjacent yards as others looked on. Michael then spoke, “I command healing to come forth in the name of Jesus Christ.” He then listed a number of afflictions to be healed. Harrison joined in as God showed him a man with arthritis sitting in the back of the yard that was also healed. When finished, Michael asked, “How many of you received your healing today?” Every individual seeking healing lifted his hands heavenward! Some who sat nearby lifted their hands as well. Whereas 270 professed their need for Christ, approximately 290 were healed of their afflictions.

Tuesday marked the last day of the prison campaign, as well as the final event scheduled for the 2013 mission trip to Africa. Many inmates crowded the yard, as well as the 2 yards separated by barbed wire and high fences. Harrison brought the message to which 50 souls responded. Sensing there were more, Michael gave a 2^nd invitation and another 25 men responded. Next, came the time for healing. Of the 113 that came forward for prayer, all but 16 were healed when Michael commanded healings to manifest. Those 16 were then taken aside and prayed for individually and many were healed. While the accompanying church prayed for the men’s healings, Michael and Harrison departed for the infirmary where they met another 26 men; most in dire straits with HIV, TB, or one of many other life-threatening afflictions. During their time of ministry in the tiny walled-in infirmary yard, another soul came to Christ. From within the mix, many individuals were able to testify before their fellow inmates what Jesus Christ had done for them in terms of healing. Assorted neck, back, knee, joint, and other pains vanished. Bodies were strengthened. Only God knows for certain what was accomplished in the infirmary on that day, but as far as the men were concerned, it was all good.

On Wednesday, Michael and Harrison bid good-bye to their Lilongwe hosts and departed for home. Other than severe exhaustion, little more was worth noting. Sleep was elusive as always when beginning or ending a mission trip. Taking advantage of his insomnia and relative quiet in the wee hours of the morning—somewhere in the 30,000 foot elevation range—Michael busily began planning his next year’s trip to Uganda, Tanzania, and Malawi. Why not? There was little else that could be done during the daunting 39 hour flight home. Eventually, the men found their ways home by Thursday evening.

Please watch for a mission report summary to be posted soon.

7/8—7/14

Monday was a holiday for Malawians so Pastor Happy decided to hold an afternoon revival service for his church. Michael brought the message. With its conclusion, the congregation began to softly sing before the Lord. Then as though on cue, spontaneous praise erupted; every sort of worship ushered forth. Some worshippers were on their knees. Others cried where they stood. Eventually, Happy called those who wished to draw closer to the Lord to come forward. As he prophesied to some and Harrison videoed the events, Michael positioned himself to pray for the man standing near the end of the platform. Learning his name was Peter, Michael noticed he was holding a sign that simply read “brain damage,” “piles,” “ulcers,” “hearing problems,” and “seeing problems.” The paper read in a list format. As he looked at Peter to get clarification, Michael noticed he was trembling; presumably from the stated brain damage. In addition, the man was having significant trouble focusing and certainly seemed unable to hear Michael’s inquiry. After praying for the brain damage, a command for clear eyesight went out. Next, Michael led Peter outside where he could continue to give him undivided attention. After praying for every other need on the list, it was time to look for healing. By this time, Godfrey, one of Peter’s friends approached to give assistance and added, “He’s been sick for a long time.” Michael then had Godfrey walk across the front of the church asking Peter if he could hear him. “Yes” came the response each time. “Okay” said Michael, “walk from here to the road.” Peter did as he was told and this time without instability. “Now run” ordered Michael. Peter complied. With everyone smiling, the 3 men returned to the service where Peter testified to his healing—his sight had been restored; his hearing was normal; his instability was gone; he no longer shook; and there was no visible evidence of brain damage. His healing from piles (hemorrhoids) and ulcers could not immediately be verified.

When the men returned home following the service, Michael was met by a young man named Moses who was gifted in prophecy. He’d met him the year before. Moses stated “The Lord wanted me to tell you . . . .” Although the word was personal, it was the verification Michael needed for a dream he’d had early Friday morning which related to the direction the Lord was about to take his ministry. The word and the dream were virtually identical, and that’s all that should be said.

Following dinner, a couple came to Michael and Harrison, but never shared what they were seeking. Instead, the Holy Spirit revealed to them both what they were experiencing in their marriage; how their marriage could be repaired; and some spiritual matters as well. They both confessed the truth of what had been said and vowed to restore all that had been damaged—all of this under the guidance of God’s Spirit and through His loving revelations.

The only event planned for Tuesday was an outdoor crusade on the grounds of a school about 7 kilometers from the host church. But the day was to be busy long before the evening’s meeting.

Early in the morning, a lady little known to Happy, showed up at his door wanting prayer. With Michael and Harrison present, she proceeded to tell of a condition she’d suffered in her stomach since 2008; another condition that made relations with her husband painful; and a 3^rd condition that was causing her to “dry up,” according to a local diagnosis. After prayer, the 5 year long suffering in her stomach area was gone. The remaining conditions could not be immediately verified.

Later in the morning, the men, along with Enson another team member, visited a local printing house. Because so many individuals expressed a desire to possess Michael’s notes on healing, it was decided the healing seminar should be put into print. As a result of their visit, the notes will be written into a book format over the next few months and printed in Malawi; English first and later Chichewa and eventually Swahili. The books would be promoted by both team members in their travels and within the Assemblies of God denomination.

In the afternoon, the team, along with Happy’s congregation, attended the planned outdoor crusade. Following a time of praise, Harrison brought the sermon to which 7 individuals responded. Afterward, a time of healing was offered to anyone who wished to be prayed for. Perhaps 20 came forward with many instantly healed of pains, asthma, deafness, and more. As is often the case, some verifications were not quickly available.

Following Wednesday’s breakfast, the 3 men hiked to Bobby Nyienda’s home to view his artwork and otherwise pay a visit to Malawi’s national artist. (Bobby is the country’s commissioned artist who’s done work for many heads of state and famous people including Queen Elizabeth, Nelson Mandela, Dan Quayl, Pope Paul VI, and others.) As Michael left early to return to the house, he met 2 young men in their 20’s and struck up a conversation about the Lord. One man soon left, leaving him an opportunity to converse with the one he knew he was to focus upon. The young man introduced himself as Edward. He was cordial but resistant. Finally, Michael asked, “Do you have a girlfriend?” to which he responded “Yes, three.” “Are you having relations with them?” he then queried. “Yes” came the response. “The one I’m talking about is the one that is shorter, feisty, and argumentative” Michael continued. “If you continue in your way, she will become pregnant and it will not end well for you. She has family members that will come against you—it will not end well.” The man was astonished as he declared, “Yes, we’ve been fighting 24/7 for the past few days.” Then he inquired, “How did you know?” The only response Michael could offer was that God loved him so much He wished to give him a warning of what was ahead if he continued down his present path. Although Edward chose not to accept Christ at the time, he’d been sternly warned and hopefully a seed had been planted.

Back at the house as the men prepared for lunch, a knock was heard at the door. A moment later, a well-groomed man was granted permission to enter the room. He was a pastor that once lived in the vicinity but was now engaged in a work the other side of Blantyre. “I’d heard the missionaries were back in town and I’ve come for prayer” he said. Per his request, the 3 men prayed. Michael was given a detailed prophetic word that dealt with the reason for his current fast; the nature of his present congregation; their slow spiritual growth; the pastor’s discouragement; and more as words of reassurance began to flow. Happy and Harrison both added as God gave them utterance. When the man left, he was cheerful and encouraged. (As an added note, he’d first seen the missionaries in a vision the prior year just before he initially met them. Only now had he chosen to relate his previous experience.)

Later in the afternoon, the team returned to the site where they’d held the crusade the day before. This time it was Michael’s turn to preach. Following the sermon came the invitation to receive Jesus Christ to which 7 souls responded. Next, Happy called forth several people to share prophetically what God was doing in their lives. Afterward, he called forward some who were about to be healed and then gave an open invitation to all who needed healing to come to the front. Perhaps 20 or more responded. Some healings could be instantly verified whereas others could not.

Thursday morning was given to rest and prayer for a pregnant couple that stopped by on the way to the hospital to deliver their baby. Michael and Harrison prayed they would deliver their overdue child that day. At noon, they ministered at the Weston school. Following Harrison’s address and the individual ministry that ensued, the threesome ran some personal errands before returning home to rest and prepare for the evening service at the Champions in Christ church.

The evening service was wonderful. Harrison gave the sermon and 1 troubled young man gave his life to Christ. About a dozen people went forward for healing prayer with verifiable afflictions instantly healed. A few cases, such as HIV would need medical verification. Following the service, the church gave Michael and Harrison gifts in appreciation for their ministry and warm goodbyes until their next meeting.

For the most part, Friday was a day of rest. (In truth, Harrison never got out of his pajamas.) But the day turned out to be another day of ministry as many people came to say goodbye and ask for prayer. Throughout the day, a tickle of people came to the house. They would quietly sit and engage in polite conversation until Michael and Harrison began to pray for them, or Happy would tell the 2 men they had company, and would quietly dismiss himself, allowing them to pray for their visitors. A well-known columnist and her husband were among those who came for prayer. Working in tandem, Michael and Harrison prophesied many of the things the couple was experiencing in their marriage and at her work. As a result, the husband gave his life to Christ. In reality, everyone that visited, day or night, came for prophetic words to be spoken over their lives. Eventually, because a small crowd had gathered in the living room, Michael and Harrison were forced to retire to their room, straighten it up a bit, and then allow their visitors access 1 or 2 at a time so all could pray in private. For some considerable time, the 2 men were given greatly detailed prophetic words regarding the people they prayed for—detailed information no one could know; information that only the Spirit of God could reveal for the purpose of ministering to the needs and hurts of His people. Everyone was asked if the matters brought up by Michael and Harrison were true and to the person, everyone verified the validity of what they were told.

Two other events are worth mentioning. Several people brought by cards containing statements of appreciation and affection for their missionary visitors. The well-wishers had no idea of the impact they were having on the 2 men. But the most moving moment came when the husband of the pregnant woman the men had prayed for the day prior, stopped for a visit. (Happy told Michael the man would come by as he wanted to give him the honor of naming his new son.) With anticipation, Michael prayed to ask God what would be an appropriate name. The Spirit’s response was “Joel.” Michael then looked up the meaning to discover it meant “the Lord is God.” The new father was pleased and agreed to name his son Joel. What an honor; one Michael will not forget.

With the coming of Saturday morning, the missionaries finished packing and said their farewells to Happy and his family. Enson, another friend and partner associated with IPICM, picked up the 2 men and carried them to another part of Blantyre where they would teach their seminar and minister twice on Sunday before departing Sunday afternoon for Lilongwe.

The teaching was held at a large Assemblies of God church in the afternoon and again at night. Of course as things turned out, the evening seminar coincided with the usual rolling brownout, so the night’s session was done solely by candlelight. In reality, it was a most enjoyable setting.

Harrison brought the message during the 1^st Sunday morning service to a gathering of about 120 congregates. Following the invitation in which 1 man responded, he and Michael called forth those who were in need of healing. Around 9 came forward. While some healings couldn’t immediately be verified, others were. (It is especially worth noting that the night before the service Harrison had a vision of a woman of a certain age and build who was entertaining a pain to the left of her stomach. Little did he know Michael prayed for the woman, though the latter was unaware of the vision until informed after the service. Harrison was indeed beginning to exercise his prophetic healing gift in greater strength.)

When it was Michael’s turn to preach, there was an estimated gathering of about 550 in attendance. Following his sermon, he extended an invitation to receive Christ to which 26 responded. Next, came the moment for healing. As the congregation worshipped the Lord with strong praise, Michael began to command healings to be manifested. Like other times in Nepal, Tanzania, and Malawi, he listed the afflictions and commanded them to be healed. When finished, he asked for a show of hands of those who’d been healed. “Wave your hands to the Lord if He’s healed you today” shouted the exhausted preacher. No less than 500 persons lifted their hands unto heaven! Afterward, a lady approached Michael to tell him how a problem with her fused C5 and C6 neck vertebrae (to the best of his recollection) had been healed. What a day to be remembered.

With the 2 services behind them, it was time to travel to Lilongwe where the team was scheduled to hold a 2 day outdoor crusade in Malawi’s largest prison. Built for 2,500 inmates, it was now sorely overcrowded with a current population of 12,000 men. The twosome were certain God was about to do something special on the last 2 days of their mission trip.

7/1—7/7

It was Monday and the 3 men prepared their bags for departure, ate breakfast, and Michael made his way to Isaac’s store, located in the midst of shops that lined the single road into the community. In the prior year when the threesome first came to Chilumba, Michael encountered Isaac as he sought a lamp and batteries. During their casual conversation, the Spirit revealed several prophetic matters in order to convict Isaac of his sinful ways. As Happy was standing nearby and knew the man, he concurred afterward. This time, a year later, the man was ready for Christ. In fact, his readiness to accept salvation must have broken some kind of speed record. Immediately after prayer, he asked Michael a rather intriguing question, “Because I’m the board chairman at my church, how should I tell them that now I plan to go to Pastor Campbell’s church instead?” Michael was stunned. Surely he wasn’t a Christian already. As it turned out, Isaac served in a church that most Africans would not recognize as truly Christian (largely because of the practice of polygamy and similar acceptances). Armed with a better understanding, Michael shared a response, Harrison gave Isaac reading glasses so he could read his bible, and the men departed until a future encounter.

Also before leaving, one of the women Happy had had in a vision Sunday morning (including her braided hair over her forehead, the color of her dress, and even where she was sitting) and prayed for a renewed walk with the Lord, showed up at the guesthouse with her husband moments before the scheduled departure. This time it was the husband’s time for a touch from God. Even though he hadn’t believed in God, he wanted his wife to go to church. Upon her return from the Sunday morning service and having heard of what God had done, he accepted Christ as Lord and came to testify so to the men. When His servants walk in the Spirit, wonderful things take place.

Following the campaign in Chilumba, the team made their way back to Lilongwe with an overnight stopover in Mzuzu. The first 2 days of the new week were given to rest.

On Tuesday the men arrived back in Lilongwe following their 4 hour bus ride. The rest of the day was uneventful.

Wednesday morning was given to additional rest, a time of prayer with the leadership of Christ for Nations church, and shopping before the evening’s time of ministry at a nearby Assemblies of God church. Following a time of praise, Harrison began his message. Almost as on cue, the lights went out and were not restored until the moment he concluded his sermon. But what a cozy time it was, listening to the Word by candlelight.

There were no healings that night as the team had grown accustomed to experience. Independently, the Spirit told all 3 men not to hold a healing session. Healings would not come again until the following afternoon.

Following the meeting, the men were scheduled to have dinner with the Honorable Watson Makala Ngozo, a member of parliament’s opposition party. He’d been told of the missionaries and wanted to meet with them. The dinner was cordial and somewhat uneventful until shortly before it was time for the 3 men to depart. Michael approached his host and requested that he might pray for him, asking him if he was a Christian. He agreed to the prayer but seemed a bit hesitant with regards to addressing his faith. As Michael took the man’s hand in his and then laid his free hand on the man’s heart, the Spirit of prophecy began to move. God revealed a number of things about his past and present experiences in the government; his original dreams of what he’d hoped to accomplish; his indecision as to his political future; the present state of parliament; and more. The man was astonished. Immediately, it was as though the Honorable Ngozo and his guests had become close friends. Afterward, Happy said “I didn’t want to tell you about him so that if God wanted to prophesy, your prayers wouldn’t be tainted.” That’s the way God works. The men were invited to meet again if their time allowed before leaving for home.

Thursday marked the day the team was to minister at the Christ for Nations Church. Delay following delay meant that Michael’s 4 hours training session was to be reduced to 45 minutes if he was to adhere to the time remaining once he took the platform. But everyone knew the Spirit was about to do something special; including a presentation of the necessary parts of the seminar. Before beginning, Michael asked, “How many of you need healing in your bodies today?” Of the more than 500 persons present, all but a handful raised their hands. In response came the words, “Today you will receive your healing.” Oh, the roar of praise that ensued! Somehow, the teaching went forth and in the time the Spirit desired. What happened next may be difficult to grasp, but it happened never-the-less. At the Spirit’s leading, Michael shouted, “Are you ready for your healing?” Again, the roar ascended unto heaven. With that, he called forth healing for every part of the human body, beginning with the head and ending with the bottom of the feet. “Receive your healing . . . .” People everywhere bore surprised facial expressions as they checked themselves for their healing. Necks swayed. Backs were purposely bent and twisted. People marched in place. Tears flowed as shouts of joy rang out everywhere. To the outsider, pandemonium was in play. But to the believers, they knew their God had visited them.

“Stand where you are” shouted Michael. “Now if you were not healed or didn’t need healing, sit down.” As he looked about, maybe 4 or 5 seated themselves. The pastor barked out something similar in his own language. Michael then turned to the pastor and asked, “Did they understand?” “Yes” he said, “they all received their healing.” Five hundred healings in a single service!

Next, prophetic words went forth instructing those who were hearing voices to come forward for their deliverance. Approximately 21 came forward for prayer. Following the command to be set free, Harrison and Happy joined in revealing more needs requiring prayer as greater numbers of people made their way to the platform. With time drawing to its end, Michael invited those in need of salvation to come forward. More than 60 responded. As the team led the respondents in prayer, their ride to the bus station arrived, forcing them to leave promptly. (As with previously mentioned close calls, the bus they were to take was loading as the men arrived at the depot.) They were scheduled to be in Blantyre by 8:30 pm that evening. Oh the joy that filled so many souls that day.

Friday was another rest day before ministry was to begin in earnest the next day.

Saturday was a training day for members of Happy’s church. The same teaching that had been taught in 4 previous churches was scheduled to be brought again. Michael prophesied to a lady and 2 young men before starting the morning session. Following the teaching came a lunch break and an afternoon session.

Sunday was a particularly long day. Harrison began with ministry to about 25 children. Afterward, he preached the morning service in which 13 people came to Christ. Michael then summarized the healing seminar, telling the congregation they should come to the afternoon service expecting to participate during a time set aside for healing. Happy then prophesied to several members of his congregation; personal matters no one would have known except they’d been revealed by the Spirit.

Later in the day, Michael brought the message for the 2^nd service. When finished, he gave some final instructions regarding healing and then declared, “It’s time for you to put into practice what you’ve been learning.” With that, those who were willing to pray for the sick were invited to come forward. About 15 eventually responded. Next, those who needed healing were encouraged to stand in 1 of the 3 prayer lines. With 3 teams praying for the infirmed, shouts of praise and applause would ring out each time someone would verify their healing. It wasn’t long before everyone in need thronged forward for a place in line. (The excitement was so contagious that an unbelieving passerby entered the church where he committed his life to Christ.) By the close of the service, between 20 and 25 people professed their healings with only a small handful unable to verify what had taken place within their bodies. Michael was almost the only person that failed to receive an immediate healing; his hernia was unchanged, although his kidney stone troubled him no more after a member of the congregation spoke prophetically that his stone was healed. The point is, Michael hadn’t told the man he’d suffered from a stone since the previous weekend.

Stay tuned for more to come.

6/24—6/30

What mighty works God had done in the 1^st week (4 days) of ministry. Already, the team was on pace to exceed anything they’d done together the previous year. Monday morning found the men still concerned over the lost “yellow card.” Harrison would not be allowed entrance into Tanzania without some finagling and likely a fair measure of money shoved under the table. If the card could not be found, options had to be explored. But with an early morning phone call came the good news that Harrison’s immunization card had been found. So were the other items the team had forgotten in their rush to leave Zambia. Their Zambian host agreed to bring the goods to Lilongwe later in the day. Hallelujah! As a benefit, the men decided to delay their departure for Mzuzu by 1 day while awaiting the arrival of the goods. It was already time to take advantage of some much-needed rest.

Tuesday, the team of 3 travelled from Lilongwe to Mzuzu by bus. After spotting a seat where he could stick is nose through a small opening in the window, Michael took a Xanax for his claustrophobia and for the most part, slept well through the journey. This came in spite of the rather large lady sitting in the seat in front of him who insisted on spending the day in a semi-reclined position, resting squarely on Michael’s knees. But hey, a well-timed Xanax can work wonders.

Wednesday was the kind of day the team prayed to experience—and yet greatly feared. They were scheduled to preach an open air meeting at the Mzuzu Prison, beginning at 9:00 am. But as is often the case, ongoing delays meant things didn’t get going until about 10:30 am, putting the events of the day behind schedule.

Once in the yard behind locked gates and plenty of rusted barbed wire, Michael brought the message to a little more than 500 men and a handful of women. When the time for the invitation came, about 210 souls advanced to the front of the prison yard to receive Jesus Christ—almost half the prison’s population! After the men returned to their places, those in need of healing were invited to come forward; about 70 in all. The team began praying for the sick at both ends of the lengthy line and in the middle. The 3^rd person Michael prayed for was a lame man paralyzed in his left leg, which got around by means of a crude stick. He was obviously lame to all who knew him; including the minister who hosted the event. After a short prayer, Michael told the man to walk in front of the prayer line, which he did. Then he repeated his victory walk a 2^nd and a 3^rd time. After the 1^st trek, Michael took the stick and threw it to the side; the man never needed it again. (The stick is now a souvenir that will make its way back to the United States as a future reminder of what God is willing to do.) The man was last seen making his way to the back of the prison yard unaided.

Much time had been lost while waiting for the prison service to finish, so when concluded, the team returned to the house, ate, packed, and hit the road with all manner of haste. They were due to minister that night in Kyela, Tanzania. Road block after road block, along with a host of miscellaneous other stops, found the threesome at the borders of Malawi and Tanzania with only minutes to spare before the immigration offices shut down for the night. Like the 3 musketeers (or perhaps more like the 3 stooges at times), they eventually made their way across the Malawian border and along a quarter-mile stretch to the gate and border office for Tanzania, only to see from a distance the office being locked for the night. As the 3 quickened their pace, the official looked back to see them running toward him. Likely from pity, he graciously reopened his office and subsequently authorized their passports. The proverbial “close shave” gets no closer than that. (Just think, had the team prayed as much as 2 minutes for a single additional prisoner earlier in the day that small delay would have resulted in missing the immigration official and the men would have been forced to stay up all night in the heart of “no man’s land” between 2 countries. Also, as a result of their delay at the Mzuzu Prison, it was too late to hold the scheduled church meeting. (Tanzania is in a time zone ahead of that of Malawi, so the hour was later than expected.) So instead, the team nestled in for the night at a nice out-of-the-way hotel.

Thursday was the only day the team could minister in the Freewill Pentecostal Church of Tanzania in Kyela. The threesome arrived at 10:30 am to teach a conference consisting of about 15 pastors and wives. The subject was healing; how it was done in biblical times and how today’s believers should expect to do the same healing works. Following the seminar, the team prayed for every individual, with the Spirit moving mightily in prophetic utterance. The most detailed of information came forth, some to admonish but all to exhort and encourage. Information about family members and situations, conditions in churches including information about specific church members, personal desires and needs, fears, and so much more, was brought to light during the time of ministry. Tear stains spotted the church floor. Everyone was clearly moved.

Following a short rest, the evening service began with about 70 persons in attendance. Harrison brought the message. When he was finished, Michael asked how many persons were in need of healing. Somewhere over 40 hands were raised. Michael then told everyone with a headache to stand. A healthy number rose to their feet. Then a prayer was offered; healing was commanded in the name of Jesus Christ; and everyone that was healed was told to sit down. Everyone sat down. Michael turned to his translator and said, “I meant only those who were healed should sit down.” His interpreter responded, “You misunderstand, they were all healed.” Likely with an expression of surprise on his face, Michael next said, “Everyone with a neck and back ache, stand to your feet.” Again, many in the room rose from their seats. “In the name of Jesus be healed. Receive your healing” went forth the words. One-by-one, every person was queried as to their healing and again, all stated individually, they’d been healed. “Everyone with pain in your knees, rise” rang out the command. “In the name of Jesus . . . .” Every soul with that particular dilemma, again speaking to each person individually and after marching in place to prove their healing, declared their cure. Next went out prayer for stomach problems, and with similar results. Finally, everyone who had some unspoken affliction was told to raise their hands toward heaven and praise God for their restoration. Moments later, each testified of their healing. Happy then saw a vision of shoulder pains in someone, to which 3 women came forward and all were healed. What was witnessed among so many was nothing short of phenomenal. The church sent the missionaries off with great joy and the bishop (of 102 churches) declared his church to be the missionaries’ church. The team was then invited to return next year for a city-wide healing crusade for the city’s 50,000 inhabitants. The bishop agreed to set up everything in advance of the team’s return.

The 3 men went home exhausted but completely satisfied over the events of the day. “Could it get any better than this?” wondered Michael.

It was Friday and time to head for Chilumba, Malawi. Happy hunted for a taxi at the border; someone willing to charge African—not American—prices. Truly, you get what you pay for in lawnmowers, refrigerators . . . and taxis. For the next 2 hours, the driver would build up his speed, shift to neutral, and then kill the cab engine and coast; all in effort to save gas. The only thing more annoying occurred at the 4^th police stop where the “rich Americans” had to bribe a police woman who searched the vehicle until she discovered a nearly depleted fire extinguisher—apparently a good enough reason to demand a ransom of 1,000 kwacha (about $3.50 USD). Okay. Grin and bear it, and hopefully without an attitude. The only thing that made that trip worthwhile was the short stopover at Happy’s mother-in-law’s house where his niece prayed to receive Jesus Christ. That should make anyone’s day.

Once settled into the small but cozy rent house just off Lake Malawi, the 3 men rested in preparation for the evening service which would begin a 3 day revival and 2 nights of open air evangelism in the sleepy little community of Chilumba.

In the evening, Happy brought the message to the congregation at Champions in Christ Church. Unlike the 1^st night the year before in which only a handful were present, this time the church was almost packed. Throughout songs of praise, bats performed acrobatic maneuvers, back and forth, just over the dimly lit heads that seemed to fade into the darkness and beyond. With music concluded, Happy positioned himself beneath the single light at the front of the church and proclaimed the Gospel of Jesus Christ. When finished, a number of souls came forward to receive the baptism of the Holy Spirit; (a Pentecostal doctrine and practice). When it was his turn, Michael asked for a show of hands of those in need of healing. Approximately 35 shoved their hands heavenward. This time, it seemed right to pray for the sick in a different manner; something that ultimately answered a growing question in Michael’s mind. (Because everyone thus far during the mission trip declared themselves healed when prayed for, Michael had begun to wonder if the people were always sincere. Healings seemed to come almost effortlessly. How could he know for certain all were real?) He first began to pray for a group of women in a forward section to his right as a half-dozen or more stood in need of prayer. Immediately after the women sat down, confusion began. Someone asked in the native tongue if Michael had finished praying for the sick, to which Happy declared “Yes, he prayed for everyone,” when in truth he had not. This caused a man in the back to begin shouting “I didn’t receive my healing,” which in turn prompted a number of people near him to begin to move forward for prayer at the altar—something of a stampede but in slow motion. When Michael saw the commotion, he motioned for everyone to return to their seat. He then moved throughout the congregation touching bodies and declaring healings. In the end, only 6 persons did not receive healing through the spoken word or by touch of hand. The 6 then went forward for healing prayer; all of which were healed as Harrison and Happy prayed for them. (Logically, if the people were faking their healings—for whatever reason—there would not have been a forward thrust to head to the altar for healing prayer.) Africans seem to take their healing seriously; at least those encountered thus far. Michael’s question had been addressed in a rather convincing manner. He now knew he must resist musings that had the potential of turning into doubt.

It was Saturday morning when the church gathered once again; this time to participate in the healing seminar. The goal was to teach the visiting pastors, and members of the church in Chilumba, why and how to pray for the sick. The event lasted until after 4:30 pm with only a 1 hour and 30 minute lunch break. Following the time of training came a time for praying for the pastors and then the congregation that they might walk powerfully in the gifts of healings. Among the leaders, God spoke a number of power prophetic revelations that dealt with a number of very specific matters in the lives of numerous ministers. Many of the words were so direct that it was as though they had been read directly from the pages of the individuals’ journals. Only the Spirit of God can flow in such a powerful way.

In the evening, the focus changed to street evangelism. The church set up its PA equipment on the steps of the now defunct bar that once jettisoned its noisy tunes during the prior year’s visit. Harrison brought the message. Nine people were thought to have come to Christ with 2 others receiving verified healings. Although he left before the meeting was finished, Michael found himself somewhat disturbed to find none of the church members present knew how to approach the many lost spectators sitting nearby. Learning how to reach the unsaved definitely needed to be on someone’s agenda—and soon.

Sunday morning was Michael’s time to minister in church. Following the message, 2 men came forward to receive Christ. Afterward, those in need of healing were invited to come to the front; 2 men and a mother with her ailing child responded. Along with the 3, Michael included himself, having suffered from a bout with a kidney stone the night before. It was time for the men and women to put what they’d learned about healing over the weekend into practice. Several came forward to pray for those needing to be. Next, Happy called several people forward he’d seen in a series of visions; some for healing and some for other matters. After sharing detailed revelations about their lives, Michael prophesied additional—and different—details as the Spirit continued to flow among His children. As an added blessing, Harrison was able to capture many of the events on video. Finally, there’s some proof for folks back home.

Following lunch, Happy ministered an afternoon session while Michael and Harrison took some much-needed rest. Several people received detailed prophetic words regarding healing and more. Revelation flowed from God-given visions just as they did in the earliest days of the church.

In the evening, Harrison again preached an evangelistic service on the only paved street in Chilumba. Most of the people were clearly tired from the weekend and many who’d come to see the missionaries had already left town for home. While no one came to Christ, the Gospel was preached and the team had done all they could for the small community; at least for this trip.

6/17—6/23

It was Monday and with Father’s Day behind them, Dr. Michael Lanier and Harrison Hunter were ready to team up once again for mission work in Africa. Both were veteran travelers. Each knew to expect hindrances that would attempt to prevent their departures; they just didn’t know how they would come. Unlike the year before when Harrison was forced to endure a series of mishaps that threatened his mission trip, this time it was Michael’s turn.

Having awakened to a stormy morning, Michael and his wife planned to get to the airport in plenty of time to check in and pass through security with time to spare. As he said goodbye to his wife and made his way to the ticket counter, Michael made the sickening discovery that although he’d made his way to the airport intact, his passport and money had not. Not yet ready to panic, he called his wife, who was still parked at the curb. “Honey, we need to go back for my passport” he cried. Moments later, they were on their way home, wondering if it was even possible to make the flight. (As an added note, cheap flights booked over the internet don’t allow for excuses; “tough luck” is their motto. You don’t get to make changes to your itinerary if you miss a flight.) At his wonderful wife’s suggestion, Michael called the airline to update his flights status. Are you ready for what followed? Not only had Michael been delayed by nearly 2 hours, but so had his flight—also by 2 hours. After making a call to their neighbor, who found Michael’s money and passport sitting in the rain on his front porch, the couple retrieved the goods and made their way back to the airport. It is safe to say the couple experienced a new high in their praise and worship along highways 121 and 183.

The 50 hours it took to travel from the USA to Malawi, Africa, witnessed little excitement and much sleeplessness. However, local entertainment was provided at Dulles Airport in Washington D. C. when plain clothed security gang-tackled a rather large man standing nearby Michael and Harrison. The view of a hand-cuffed man shoved against the wall was the last thing the men saw as they boarded their flight to Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. The flight entertainment was rather bland in comparison.

What seemed like an eternity later, the 2 men arrived at their destination Wednesday afternoon, where they were met by a local delegation of minsters and their partners in ministry, Pastor Happy Gondwe, Regional Director for International Partners in Christian Ministry (IPICM),  and Rey Malunga, their host. With so much ministry planned, they went straight to the house for rest. Though suffering from 3 days of jet lag, ministry was scheduled to begin the next morning.

Thursday morning marked the beginning of the 2013 mission campaign. Pastor White Banda invited the team to minister at his New Covenant Church in Lilongwe. Harrison brought the message to an assembly of congregants and a host of visiting pastors. As the Spirit moved, 18 individuals came forward to receive Jesus Christ and salvation. Following the sermon, Michael led a time of prophetic ministry and then Harrison and Happy joined as many in the assembly came forward for healing.

The time of prophetic ministry was unusually stirring. Michael spoke of 4 categories that the Spirit wished to address. First, several women were concerned for lost loved ones in their family, followed by more women who were distressed in their marriages; some younger men who desired to become ministers but were held back for various reasons; and finally pastors who were struggling in their ministries and personal lives. The applicable persons, about 25 in all, came forward for private prophecy and prayer. Harrison and Happy started with the women at one end of the semi-circle, whereas Michael moved toward the pastors. The first man began to relate his problem and need to the translator. As the interpreter readied himself to express the pastor’s words into English, Michael said “Stop. The Spirit will reveal the man’s need.” For the next half-dozen men, God’s Spirit faithfully addressed each heart without their having to do so. (The last 2 men didn’t even bother to tell their needs to the translator.)

While Michael was still ministering to the pastors, Happy and Harrison began the time of praying for healings. Happy began by calling forth a woman he’d seen in a vision the night before—dark in color; in pain for a long time; who’d consulted a witchdoctor for relief. As the woman responded, she acknowledged the accuracy of Happy’s vision and was healed. Then for the next while, the 3 men prayed for approximately 21 souls in need. All were healed. Hallelujah!

Friday morning saw a continuation of events. Michael brought a teaching (as part of the IPICM School of Ministry) on the subject of healing. Although originally designed for pastors and leaders, due to so many interested in the healing works of the Spirit, the teaching was adjusted at the last moment to be shared with the congregation as well. Following the lesson, it was time for learners to practice healing on the many new visitors that had come to be prayed over. Happy began the healing session by calling forth a lame man he’d seen in a vision the night before. Although the healing was not complete at the time, no one was deterred as all expected the man to improve through the day. Michael then asked those who wished to pray for the sick to come forward. About a dozen pastors responded. Then on cue, the sick came forward to stand in 1 of 3 places where teams of 4 pastors were waiting. After the approximate 15 individuals in need received prayer, the service was concluded with a child receiving Christ Jesus as Savior. Only 1 or 2 healings were uncertain for the day.

Saturday, the team of 3 arose long before dawn to make ready for their journey to Chipata, Zambia, where they were to minister at the Abundant Grace of God Ministries church. About 20 miles short of the Malawian-Zambian border, the men abruptly experienced an event all-too-familiar that reminded them of a similar journey the prior year. Without warning, Rey suddenly pulled his vehicle off the road with smoke billowing from his front left wheel. A bearing went bad and locked. About 2 hours later, the Zambian host pastor arrived to pick up Michael, Harrison, and Happy, leaving Rey to repair his vehicle along with the mechanic that arrived with the pastor.

With everyone finally in place, Harrison brought the morning message to a nearly full house. When the invitation to receive Christ was presented, 102 souls crowded the altar. As the team inquired whether it was the first time each person professed Christ, all agreed it was.

Michael brought the evening message as he primed the church for the healing seminar he was to teach the next morning. Everyone was clearly excited for what they would experience the following day.

Sunday morning, the congregation of approximately 250 was in place by 9:00. Around 10:30, Michael began the healing seminar. Again, the message was altered so it could be shared with everyone present. As he finished half past noon, the time for ministry began. Happy had experienced 10 visions of various individuals the night before and it was time to share them with the appropriate individuals—none of which he had had previous knowledge of. During the ministry time, he called each of the people he’d seen to come forward. Only 2 of the night visions pertained to healing, whereas the rest involved a wide range of issues the Spirit wished to address. Most amazingly, each person testified as to the accuracy of what God revealed as Happy prayed for them.

Following the prophetic ministry, Michael called forth those in need of healing. About 100 individuals responded to the call. The team then broke into 3 prayer lines and for the next 2 hours, prayed over all manner of afflictions. When finished, the 3 men compared notes only to discover that everyone they prayed for was healed—all 100 people. As usual, everyone they prayed over was requested to do what they could not have done before receiving prayer, with only a small number that could not be immediately verified. What an amazing time.

As the evening approached, the Zambian host drove the team back to the home of their Malawian host in Lilongwe. Little did the team realize until later in the night they’d left a towel (Michael), bible (Happy), 2 phones, and most importantly, a “yellow card” proving one’s vaccination record (Harrison) in Zambia. Obviously, the disturbing revelation brought a measure of concern as no one is allowed entrance into Tanzania without a vaccination record.

What would you think if the headlines of your newspaper read “The Blind See, the Deaf Hear, and the Lame Walk!” Chances are you’ll never see these words in an American paper, but be assured; this declaration fails to do justice to what has taken place over the past 5 weeks in the Asian country of Nepal.

Unlike the usual manner of writing posts in third person, I (Dr. Michael Lanier) have elected to write this post in a first person format. I want you to feel the emotions that my partner Tom Stoy and I have shared with the Nepali people in recent weeks.

Imagine doing the greatest thing your heart ever desired to do. Now, imagine being used by God in a way that seems more fictitious than real. We’ve all read of great heroes of the faith that dared to do the impossible, thinking “If only I could have a miniscule share of such an adventurous work for Christ.” Well in truth, this life-long desire was realized in my trip to Nepal.

What a land of contrasts. The beauty of the Himalayan mountain range, including the lesser mountains in which we spent so much of our time, is difficult to describe. Imagine standing on the crest of a mountain with kindred mountains rolling gently into the distance—both before and behind you. With the coming of dusk and the fading cries of a distant cuckoo somewhere on the mountain side below, the warm red glow of fires across the valley spot the vista as home after home prepares for the coming night. And on an evening when electricity is available, envision a scene reminiscent of a thousand glow worms suspended from the ceiling of some great cavern, casting their faint light into the distance until they could be seen no more. In the moonless night, it was often difficult to discern star from home light when gazing across a valley. All were small and shared a similar glow. The effect played strangely within the human mind of perception as the stars seemed to permeate even the valley floor below. Such scenes can barely be described as they are best experienced.

Over the course of the nearly 5 weeks of ministry, the work of our God virtually defied the usual belief of the Western mind. Perhaps the greatest miracle came in the way of the 64 Hindus who became followers of Jesus Christ. This is no small matter, as some are sure to be disowned by family and friends for their decision. In addition, more than 900 infirmed souls were prayed over by Tom, our host, our 2 translators, and myself. In the end, according to Tom, who keeps close track of such matters, over 750 individuals were completely healed of their infirmities. This is even more significant than you might think because most suffered from multiple maladies. Another 120-130 received partial healing—either some afflictions among many were healed, or the degree of suffering was greatly reduced. (It is entirely possible that some of the partial healings were made complete in the days that followed.) Only between 20 and 30 individuals received no healing whatsoever. These were mostly in the first 2 weeks, or were individuals steeped in witchcraft, or were unusually hardened Hindus. It should be noted that according to the numbers, 97% of those who sought prayer were completely or partially healed. That is absolutely astonishing! Over the course of several weeks, from small home fellowships to churches numbering up to 100 believers, nearly everyone in need received healing. God’s mercy was poured upon believers and Hindus alike. The God of love and healing touched lives from all walks, just as did Jesus when He healed Samaritans, Romans, and Greeks who sought His favor.

With candor, I confess this trip was the most challenging mission venture I’ve ever taken. Missiologists would categorize Nepal as an E3 society—meaning it shares virtually nothing in common with American culture. I was constantly barraged with information that boggled my way of thinking. For brevity, I’ll list just a few:

• In some places, such as the capital city Kathmandu, Christians cannot bury their dead.
• It is not uncommon to witness partially burned corpses floating down a river as their Hindu funeral pyre atop the water would fail to completely incinerate the body.
• A man guilty of murder would likely receive a prison sentence of 12 years whereas a man guilty of killing a cow would receive 15 years of incarceration.
• During certain festivals, Hindus smear cow dung on the walls and floors of their homes for blessings. The same also drink the cow’s urine.
• In the capitol city of Kathmandu, during festivals, many faithful Hindus drink and bathe from the local river polluted with raw sewage.
• Members of the lowest caste, often referred to as “untouchables,” are forbidden to enter the home of any other caste.
• Electricity is rationed and is often available less than 12 hours in a day.
• Goat guts have the look, taste, and texture of calamari—something I learned first-hand.
• A 3 lane one-way road in Kathmandu can actually support 7 lanes of traffic.

With all that seems so strange to the American mind, I’ve discovered that I’ve fallen in love with the people and culture of Nepal. Their courtesy and respect is entirely refreshing, as is their willingness to please their guests. I was never allowed to carry anything larger than a flashlight. As an older man, I was always given the front seat of a vehicle. I was constantly asked, “Michael sir, is everything alright? Do you need anything?” How could anyone not appreciate such a kind and thoughtful people?

Yes, the work of missions is very much needed in this far-away corner of the world. God truly seems to manifest Himself in places where He is needed the most. In a culture that possesses few earthly goods, our God is willing and ready to reveal Himself wherever He is invited. To be a man charged with the responsibility—and tremendous privilege—of preaching the Gospel and praying for the sick, was at times, more than I could bear without the shedding of tears. Will I someday return? Only God-Almighty can prevent a repeat performance. I will return someday and next time, with the intention of doing even greater works.

I could not have embarked on this great journey without the love and support of my family and friends. Thank you, each one of you. Especially, I thank my dear wife Dale and my parents, Ross and Jo Lanier, who’ve always been my greatest supporters. I thank my friend Tom Stoy who chose to travel this venture with me. I thank everyone who contributed financially to make this mission trip possible. And I thank all who’ve kept us in prayer over the course of the past 5 weeks. Thank you each and every one.

Dr. Michael Lanier, Executive Director

Sunday morning, the 14^th, marked the beginning of the Nepali New Year. It was a well-deserved day of rest for the team as everyone planned to do something for themselves. Following breakfast, before they could pursue their own plans, Michael and Tom were approached by Arjun to intercede for his sister who’d come for prayer. When the 2 agreed and approached the lady, she was obviously distressed. She had a bad headache; she was unable to hear from her right ear; there was a sore in her mouth; and she had a pain in her left shoulder. Before praying, Michael asked if she was a believer. Arjun responded “no.” The men gave her the Gospel but she held fast to the excuse she must first ask her husband if he would allow her to become a Christian. In spite of their efforts, the woman would not be persuaded. Regardless, the men prayed for her healing. The gracious—and patient—Lord heard their prayers and instantly healed their translator’s sister. Although disturbed at hearing the same excuse over and over for the past month, Michael was gently reminded of his own resistance to God’s beckoning when he was younger. Praise God He heals even in the face of rejection. Who knows what may yet take place in the woman’s heart.

Monday was the day set aside to visit Leguwa; the Nepali version of Death Valley. From the stories the missionaries were told, they were prepared to sweat a great deal. Indeed, once they concluded their 1 and ½ hour descent into the belly of the mountain valley; sweat freely flowed in the summer like environment. Clouds of dust were constant companions as the 1 lane dirt and rock road wound back and forth in serpentine form. But eventually the “shake-and-bake” Land Rover did its job of ferrying the team to the young Presbyterian fellowship.

When the time came for ministry, there was a blend of believers and Hindus waiting at what appeared to be a converted auto workshop, or something very much like it. Songs were sung and Tom followed with a sermon and Gospel appeal. To everyone’s surprise, there was no response. Michael too chimed in with an evangelistic plea from a different approach. Still, no one was stirred to receive Christ. The team then prayed a group prayer for healing. Perhaps 10 indicated that they’d been healed and went outside to make way for others, though a number of those who said they were healed also wanted individual prayer when the healing lines began. For the next couple of hours, the 2 healing teams prayed for about 50 individuals having a wide variety of afflictions. The majority were healed. Of greater importance, 4 souls were added to the Kingdom of God.

As previously stated, healing remains a baffling mystery at times. A young girl who’d been totally deaf received a measure of hearing in both ears, though she remained mute. A young man that couldn’t walk (and was in great pain whenever he attempted to do so), could now walk, though his strides were labored and his speech remained slurred. Why? The question is an honest one, yet one that is likely to remain unanswered this side of heaven.

The team, when finished, and following a time of tea, eventually made its way home shortly before dark. There would be only 1 more scheduled day for ministry.

Tuesday morning was the final day slated for ministry. The team taxied their way to the Pakhribas bazaar from which they hiked another 10 minutes down the nearly inaccessible rock filled road to the Christian’s home where they were to pray for the sick. About 15 believers had gathered in the tiny inner room. Everyone wanting prayer received healing from God just as they’d hoped. No one was disappointed. The remainder of the day was given to rest and homeward bound thoughts.

Wednesday was a day of rest before the team was scheduled to depart for Kathmandu on Thursday. The only matter worth printing was the way God took care of Michael and Tom on the first leg of their homeward bound journey. After a 4 hour journey from Pakhribas to Biratnagar, following a brief stop over in Dharan, the men thought they were getting to the airport 2 hours earlier than necessary. What they discovered was that due to bad weather, many of the flights were cancelled. Their 5:00 pm flight had surprisingly been moved up to 3:oo pm, and check-in was only a matter of minutes away. What a break! Had they arrived when scheduled, they would have spent the night in the airport and possibly missed their flight out of Kathmandu the next day. God was definitely watching over the pair of missionaries—faithful as always.

Friday afternoon, following a brief bit of shopping, Michael and Tom made their way to the airport with bags bulging. The next 48 hours plus, were virtually sleepless as the men travelled from Kathmandu, Nepal to Doha, Qartar, then to London, England, and finally to DFW Airport and home.

With Michael left in Pakhribas to rest and recover from his cold, and having returned most of the team to their homes, Tom, James, and Chan continued the healing ministry in Hile. This time, Sunday the 7^th, the church was Presbyterian. A small church of less than 20 people in attendance, perhaps 15 were prayed over with about 9 completely healed. The finale came when 3 young deaf and mute children were placed before the team. Calling upon the church to fall to their knees and cry out to God in praise, all 3 children were partially able to hear; 1 was able to speak a few words.

Monday was a much needed day of rest. Michael and Tom read, shopped, hiked to a beautiful setting for prayer, and otherwise relaxed in whatever manner suited them.

Tuesday marked a return to ministry. This time, along with James and Chan (their host and translator), Michael and Tom fielded questions from students at the Himalayan Bible School in Dhankuta. Following a breakfast at the facility, the men responded to a plethora of questions, as a dozen students, along with their teacher, searched for understanding on a range of topics and verses in Scripture. Following a lunch break, the team finished their dialog around 3:00 pm and then moved into a time of healing. Out of 12 students seeking healing; 10 were completely healed with 2 receiving partial healings.

On Wednesday, the team visited a small Assembly of God church in Phakribas. Nearly 30 people were in attendance with Tom bringing the message. Following the sermon, Michael prophesied over the congregation. Many needed a return of their joy and peace; something that would be prayed for multiple times during the day. He then called out 3 ladies in the front, as God delivered exquisitely detailed words of events that had occurred in their lives; matters they were currently praying for; heart matters; and much more. Tom then continued the prophetic ministry with 2 of the women. Next, 15 people received prayer for healing. This time, as before, all but 1 was completely healed; most of which suffered from multiple afflictions. The single exception was partially healed.

A few of the prayer needs deserve additional notation. Two persons could not praise God because something demonic would begin to occur as they tried. God completely set them free; 1 of which had often manifested demonic activity whenever she felt fear or pain. She was smiling over her release when last the team saw her. Another couldn’t read his bible, although he was able to read other literature. He too experienced freedom as he sat in the corner joyfully reading the word.

There seemed to be a good measure of spiritual warfare present, but the work of the Lord was done. When the missionaries were done, there was great joy evident in everyone’s expression. The seeds of revival had been sown and all were seemed excited. After praying over a witchdoctor’s stone a man discovered in his home (to break any perceived power), the team hiked back to their dwelling to catch a few hours of rest before the next day’s events.

Late in the day, the 2 men were surprised to learn they were expected to minister at a nearby home fellowship. Tired as they were, they put forth no resistance and made their way to the meeting. With only 8 or 9 persons in attendance, including the 2 missionaries, Michael brought the teaching. A short time later, the team prayed for 2 healings and Michael brought a prophetic word to a young man. As the evening wound down, the skies began to spew marble sized hail and between down-bursts, the team made their way home.

Thursday was slated to be a day of praying for the sick as they arrived at the house where the missionaries were staying. It wasn’t long before the host’s 10’ x 12’ meeting room was packed with neighbors seeking healing. Michael opened the meeting with a brief Gospel message and then an invitation to receive Christ. Weary of the tendency of so many claims to receive Jesus if He heals them—only to claim they would do so later—he tricked his Hindu guests. This time he asked for a response to Christ before the team prayed for healing. This seemed to stir quite a reaction as snippets of Nepali language was parleyed about the room for several minutes. Eventually, 2 women prayed to receive Christ. These were the first 2 to be prayed for; 1 was completely healed and the other received nothing. The team prayed for the latter a second time, but still with no results. Michael then asked the woman if she’d visited a witchdoctor, to which she said she had. He then told her she must renounce such practices and asked her to sit for a while as the men prayed for others.

After a time, a certain man came forward for prayer. Michael asked him if he was ready to receive Jesus to which he responded “no,” because he was a witchdoctor. Michael and Tom teamed to tell the man all the reasons he should renounce his witchcraft and give his life to Christ. Finally, in an act of near desperation, Michael lovingly grasped the man saying, “Because God is such a loving and caring God, I will not let go until you’ve come to Christ.” He then proceeded in some detail to describe the vision God had given him regarding where and when the man practiced his craft, and how utterly empty it left him. When the man acknowledged the truth of the matter, Michael led him in a prayer to renounce his practice and the world of demonic powers. Tom then led him to Christ. But wait . . . there’s more. The woman that received Christ a short time earlier, but received no healing, now stood and declared “I want to pray again to become a Christian; this time with my husband.” Her husband was the witchdoctor! That was the witchery that had been hindering her healing. With both of them becoming Christians, now she was ready to be prayed over a final time. Although she had many assorted afflictions; this time she found relief from most, and perhaps all with the passage of time.

Eleven souls were prayed for with only 2 instantly receiving complete healing. The rest were only partially healed, which led Tom to wonder if people back home were beginning to wane in their prayer support. Of course both men were also tired, which also has its effect. Regardless, everyone rejoiced in the salvation of 3 brands plucked from Satan’s fire that day.

On Friday, the team of Michael, Tom, James, Arjun, and Chan, returned to Dhankuta to minister in a small Pentecostal church, known as Olive Church. It was not much to look at; corrugated metal comprised the siding and roof—a virtual oven during other times of the year. Michael reminded Tom that God had often done some of His most powerful works in unlikely, out-of-the-way places. Yep. And so it would be again.

Michael brought the message and then waited for the Lord to move. “There’s a woman in this section” he said as he pointed his finger in a particular direction, “that has recently been undergoing . . . .” He fired off a list of current experiences, noting that it was the Spirit that was moving. “Who are you?” he asked. As he patiently waited for a response, a woman stood and shared her encounters from the heart. A further word was given to her after which Michael asked “Are these things true?” to which she heartily said “Ho”; meaning yes. Turning to his left, he next stated “There’s a man here who . . . . As before, a number of personal matters were brought forth. Then the question went out, “Who are you?” A young man stood and Michael approached him to continue the prophecy. After praying more specifics, the man was told God wanted to set him free that day. A short time later, the young man confessed his grandfather—a witchdoctor—had designated him to become a witchdoctor as well. As a result, he was unable to read his bible. But after receiving prayer, He was able to freely read the word. The man had been set free!

Over the course of the 3 and ½ hours of ministry, which included a brief sermon, no less than 25 persons were healed—everyone that came forward for prayer, though it is possible a couple of individual’s total healing is uncertain.

Tom prayed for a partially deaf man whose ear was healed. Michael prayed for a lame elderly lady that could only walk with a crutch. After prayer, she repeatedly walked around the room unassisted. (However, she continued to nurse her right arm as she suffered from a measure of paralysis in the arm that was not healed. Healing is indeed a mystery.) On another occasion, Michael spoke healing to Chan, his translator, who spoke to a woman standing next to him, who in turn, retranslated Michael’s words into a tribal dialect as she spoke to her ailing mother over the phone. The scene was one to behold. Eventually, the daughter said her mother was healed of a headache and leg problems. Hallelujah!

Church finally concluded with everyone greatly rejoicing over what God had done. The team eventually made its way back to Phakribas where each member desperately sought rest.

With Saturday, came 2 places of ministry. At 8:00 that morning, the team drove to Hile where they ministered to a Presbyterian church of about 70 members. Michael brought the message and the team of Michael, Tom, Chan, Arjun, and Manju divided into 3 healing lines. At least 40 persons came forward for prayer with the great majority receiving complete healing. None failed to be healed to at least some point. However, the team noted that everyone seemed to struggle in their healing prayers; often praying 2 and 3 times for individuals.

By 10:30, the team found itself at a Hile Pentecostal church. Again, Michael gave the sermon. When finished, the team waited on the Spirit for direction, which seemed somewhat slow to come at first. Michael received a prophetic word for 2 people but didn’t know who they were; only that they were a man and a woman and they sat in 2 specific areas of the congregation. Both words were mild rebukes: the woman was entertaining anger to the point that it was causing resentment; the man had grown lazy in his service to God regarding how the Lord had called him to serve others. Not surprisingly, no one responded. (It was only after the service that Michael learned the pastor knew the man; that he had been given the gift of prophecy but was not using it to serve the body of Christ. Also, Tom prayed for a man and woman as a couple, who repented from anger related issues though the lady seemed to continue to hold anger toward her husband.) Interestingly enough, Michael’s leading from the Spirit suddenly stopped as though a light switch had been powered off, and Tom was then given the Spirit’s direction. (Michael stood quietly by as Tom led the congregation, wondering what had happened.)

The pastor and assistant pastor comprised 1 healing line; Michael and Chan manned another; Tom, Arjun, and Manju made up the third. The teams prayed for the sick for almost 2 and ½ hours, with about 45 individuals prayed for; 2 of whom came to Jesus Christ. Michael noted that 3 people with severe sight obstructions ranging from blurry vision, the inability to see distant objects, and dark blotches, received their sight. (One was taken to the door to view distant objects, which she did with success. The man with the blurred vision, counted Michael’s fingers held high from a distance. All 3 were healed.) Michael also had 2 individuals—one complete and one partially deaf—were healed.

After the service, the pastor shared with the team his experience of persecution at the hands of area Buddhists. After he led a Buddhist to Christ and the man died shortly thereafter from a brain tumor, he was asked to destroy the man’s idols. He did, but then the widow retracted her request. A chain of events was set in order so that the pastor was jailed for 26 days, only to be released while awaiting the outcome from the judicial system. Also, he told of a young man in the church who, earlier in the week, was beaten by his Hindu family for becoming a Christian. (Truly, Americans have no real idea of what it is like to live their faith in an unbelieving environment.) The team prayed for the pastor and the young man, who was in abstention, and then made their way home to rest the remainder of the day.

Sunday morning, March 31^st, was Easter Sunday at the small Nigale Pentecostal church. Like the 20’ x 40’ mud and bamboo building, the congregation was equally small. But as the expression goes: dynamite comes in small packages, so does the explosive work of God’s Spirit when it serves His purpose. Michael gave the message. Noticing there were of number of Hindus present, he altered his sermon to include the Gospel message for those who would not have already known it. A short time later, 7 Hindus came forward to receive Jesus. That was unheard of in Nigale according to the pastor. Moments later, the time of healing began. Out of nowhere, church attendance seemed to multiply. So many were present that the 2 missionaries were forced to divide and pray separately for the sick. For the next 3 hours, the team prayed for everything from headaches to foot problems and everything in-between. All who were present seemed to get in on the act: the missionaries, their translators, the youth praise team, and even members of the church. The activities bordered on mild chaos. But at the end of the day, more than 40 individuals had been prayed over with the normal success rate of about 85% fully healed.

The most maddening issue repeatedly encountered was the often heard promise of a Hindu willing to receive Jesus Christ if He should heal them, only to have that person later—post healing—renege on their word and say “I’ll have to discuss the matter first with my family.” Even so, 6 additional individuals accepted Christ during the healing service. The greatest assist to evangelism today is the coupling of the Gospel with the healing power of the Holy Spirit. Perhaps evangelicals should reexamine this matter.

Later in the day, the team made its way to Deurali. Warmly greeted, the men prayed for a few sick people and then turned in for the night.

Monday morning marked a whole new level in Christian ministry in very significant ways. After waking, Tom called home to speak with his wife. To his complete surprise, someone attempted to break into his house while he was on the phone. Distraught, he immediately recognized the attack was from the great adversary in attempt to sidetrack the work he was doing in Nepal. Seconds later, the intruder fled as Tom’s dog began to attack the door. Once the matter passed, Tom and Michael were asked to pray for an elderly man, which they did with success. Then surprisingly, 2 young people entered the room and announced they wanted to receive Jesus. After praying for salvation, the team departed to minister to a local fellowship of believers.

As the group sat in the small room awaiting the start of the meeting, Arjun pulled a picture of his estranged family from his bible; one that had been taken 10 years earlier. (Arjun’s father, a witchdoctor, had disowned him at age 10 after he came to Christ.) As Michael took the photo from Arjun’s hand, the Lord began to speak concerning every family member in the photo—father, mother, and 2 brothers. The Spirit began to describe in intricate detail, matters concerning each person’s life. Michael shared these details with Arjun and then interceded for each one. Only God could do such a thing. This was truly the first time Michael experienced such an event. Interestingly enough, Arjun testified that every detail was correct, as he maintained at least some measure of contact with his family.

When the service began, approximately 20 people were present in the crowded room to hear a short message and then the entire group was to depart for a different location to pray for the sick. However, God had something else in mind. As Michael prepared to bring a short message, he spied a half dozen Hindus siting in the back of the room next to street side, opened door. He welcomed them and proceeded to share his message—but with an evangelical slant. Before anyone knew what was happening, the room began to fill. When an appeal for salvation was eventually given, 11 Hindus came forward for salvation. After welcoming them into the family of God, Michael, Tom, Arjun (the translator), and his wife, began to pray for the sick. The next thing the group knew, the house was flooded with Hindus. The team was so hard pressed for space as the group continued to grow, the overflow was routed into the next room. A large open section existed between the 2 rooms. Everyone was asked to sit and Michael then brought a second evangelistic message. This time, unlike the first, the hardness of the people became apparent. No one came to Christ—but everyone came for healing from the Christian God. Finally, the team was content to pray for the needs of the visitors. Five hours after the service began, more than 40 stricken individuals were prayed for with somewhere around 80% of Christians and Hindus receiving healing. The team was utterly amazed at the hardened hearts of so many who came only for physical healing.

After lunch, people continued to come to Michael and Tom for prayer wherever they were. During this time, another Hindu gave her life to Christ.

Now for a bit of humor. When it came time for the team to travel to their next designation, Michael and Tom were stunned to learn of their mode of transportation. It was a dump truck. But not just any dump truck. Imagine the front seat full with the majority of the team riding in the bed of the truck. Now picture the truck making its way along one of the bumpiest, wounding, dirt and rock filled roads, weaving along the side of a huge mountain. Now envision taking such a ride in a vehicle devoid of anything remotely resembling a set of shock absorbers. That pretty well describes the day’s journey. The 2 missionaries were amused at the Hindu woman compressed between them and the driver, as she continually made the sign of the cross during the arduous journey.

Once the team arrived at Sindhuwa, they made their way to a location where a number of believers had gathered. Michael prophesied over several individuals, to which the Spirit gave detailed messages regarding current matters in the believers’ lives. Each joyfully expressed their encouragement. As nightfall came, the team made its way to their lodging and a hot meal.

With Tuesday morning came a fresh opportunity to minister. What would God do today was the question. The Pentecostal church regularly met in the third story upper room. With little room to maneuver, Tom brought the word and a time of prophetic and healing ministry followed. All was going well until a demon manifested itself to everyone’s surprise. Sitting by the door, no one noticed when the Hindu woman first entered unannounced. Swaying in a large circular motion, shaking and bouncing with great force, she began to loudly chant a mantra. The demon had announced its presence. The translator told the men she claimed to be the goddess Parvati (the wife of Shiva). “I don’t need the blood of men but of gods” she cried in the Nepali language. At one point when the woman became lucid, she told the group she wanted to be set free; that the demon would enter her back to eat at her heart. Then the demon took control again. Over the next 45 minutes, the demon clearly weakened as the church continually interceded for the woman. Unfortunately, not knowing how long the deliverance would take, the team was forced to leave to catch a bus for the next stop. Responsibility for continued ministry was given to the church as the missionary group was forced to depart. Michael was reminded of the passage in Mark that states “This kind cannot come out except by much prayer.” (Mark 9:29)

When the bus arrived in Basantapur, the team was warmly welcomed by members of the Holiness Church. An evening service was planned, and what a service it would be. Tom brought the message to the nearly 100 persons present. When finished, 2 healing lines were arranged, with 3 team members in each group. (From this time forward, the team would include local pastors in each healing line.) After some time had passed, somewhere around 40 persons per group received healing ministry; again with approximately 80-85% completely healed and the rest partially healed or with their healing in progress. Very few received no noticeable healing.

Healings of every nature took place. Among the most notable were 2 warranting mention. Tom prayed for a young man that 3 years prior attempted suicide through hanging. Although he failed to kill himself, he was left unable to speak. When Tom asked him if he wanted to receive Jesus, he suddenly said “Yes, I want Jesus.” Tom led him in prayer and the young man left able to speak. Michael prayed for a totally deaf person that afterwards was able to hear. Many were the healings that night and 4 new souls were added to the family of God.

As an added note, sleep eluded everyone. The team slept in the back room of the church. Many people spent the night in the church, watching a movie, beating drums, and babies were crying. Ear plugs are effective only to a degree. And to make matters worse, Michael was devoured by bedbugs.

The next morning, Wednesday, the team was asked to pray a second time for an elderly lady that had partially received her sight during the previous night’s service. They prayed for her and a couple of others and then walked to the next church where they were to minister.

The Basantapur church greeted the team with much warmth. This time, Michael delivered the message. Again, the team formed 2 healing lines. Sometime later, as each time before, many were healed, with about 40 receiving prayer. From there, the group returned to the town of Sindhuwa, but to a different church this time, where they spent the night.

Thursday marked one of the most powerful and unusual days of ministry. The morning church service was packed to accommodate somewhere around 100 people. Following a time of praise and worship, Tom brought the message. Sensitive to the leading of the Spirit, he then asked everyone to be quiet before the Lord. Moments later, spontaneous praise began to break forth, quickly building to a crescendo. Some cried as others laughed, but everyone voiced some expression before the Lord.

While Michael was observing the phenomenon, suddenly a buzzing sound seemed to surround his head; combined with something similar to a gentle wind blowing. He then asked the Father what He wanted to do next. In response, he heard the words, “Speak healing to My people.” In obedience, he lifted his head and began to proclaim healing over the congregation, mentioning specific parts of the body to be healed. Everyone was then asked to sit down and whoever wished could stand and give testimony. One by one, church members stood to announce what God had just healed them from. Affliction after affliction was declared gone as Jesus healed many bodies that morning.

After the service, an odd thing happened. Many of the Christians left the church; some stayed for additional prayer while numerous Hindus joined the mix. The word had gone forth that the Christian God was healing the sick. The team then divided into 2 groups and 2 lines were thus formed. At the end of the day, almost everyone—approximately 100—was healed, including all but 1 Hindu man with an especially hard heart. Tom noted that all but the Hindu man were healed, including some that were partially blind and deaf.

Following the service, the team said their good-byes and left for their next destination in their trusty Range Rover. Now confident they could handle any rugged dirt road they might encounter, they would quickly discover that even Rovers can’t traverse all obstacles. On their way to the remote village of Parewadin, the travelers were regularly stalled by seemingly impossible road hazards. At one point when the driver insisted on turning back, James, the hosting pastor for the team, called the pastor they were attempting to visit. The local pastor, who was so desperate for their visit because of the vast number of healing needs in his community, began to cry and insisted he’d send men to clear the road. Sure enough, a half dozen young men eventually arrived baring picks, a shovel, and an iron rock bar. From the afternoon until well into the night, they struggled to clear and reconstruct the dirt road, and even free the Rover when it bottomed out. But in the end, the team made its way to the Emanuel Kripa Pentecostal church in Parewadin.

After an evening and morning of prayer, Friday promised to be a powerful day in the Lord. The morning was beautiful as the congregation of approximately 75 began their praise to the Lord. It wasn’t long before handfuls of Hindus trickled into the back of the already crowded building. Unnoticeable at first, the crowd soon grew to an overflow capacity of 150 or so, with many forced to remain outside. In the morning, the team prayed for church members, with all being healed. A husband and wife prayed to accept Christ. As members of the congregation received healing, they departed the building only to be replaced with their Hindu neighbors.

Following a lunch break, the team returned to the church to pray for the people. Everyone received healing in the morning and all hoped God would continue a similar work in the afternoon. Crowded beyond belief, Michael opened the service with an evangelical appeal. He spoke briefly about the God who heals verses the Hindu gods and goddesses that either can’t heal, or choose not to heal. He then turned the service over to Arjun, who spoke an evangelistic message. One individual responded.

How to effectively pray for such a large crowd had become a logistical problem. Clearly, the team would pray well into the night if they continued to use the prayer line method. After much consideration, Arjun wisely suggested praying in mass. Michael consulted the Lord, Who said in turn, “Speak My healing word.” With guidance from the Spirit, Michael began to address the people in a manner not all that different from the day before when the Spirit of Christ visited His church in such a powerful way. The principal difference was the room was now filled with unbelievers. Could this really be what God wanted? Yes. Jesus healed Romans, Samaritans, and possibly Greeks. Why not? God is merciful. After all, healing is up to Him alone. So for the next 2 and ½ hours, the team divided into 3 healing lines, praying for all manner of afflictions until the team was utterly exhausted and closed the meeting sometime after 4 pm. Those in attendance were promised needs would be prayed for the next morning following the church service.

Among some of the more spectacular healings involved those who were blind, deaf, and dumb. Tom witnessed partial blind and deaf people healed. Michael experienced similar encounters with poor eyesight and hearing restored. It wasn’t until he was leaving that someone asked him to pray for an aged blind woman sitting on the floor. As he kneeled before her, she related how when she came to the meeting, her sight began to return. Michael then laid his hand on her eyes, prayed for healing, and then asked her how many fingers he was holding up. She correctly responded “Two.” Her vision had returned. Michael was to discover later that the lady was the pastor’s aunt. (The pastor led her to Christ a few minutes later.) Similarly, his mother had been healed earlier in the day from deafness in 1 ear. Hallelujah!

Saturday, the Nepali Sabbath, was a new day for worship and healing. Tom delivered the sermon as Michael rested until time for healing prayer. (As the missionaries shared all things in common, the same applied to a cold Tom shared with Michael. The latter would limit his activities over the next couple of days.) The healing lines were smaller, but many were prayed for before and after lunch. Without doubt, healing is indeed a enigma. The mysteries include the accounts of 2 deaf and mute individuals. In both cases, each received partial healings—only a single ear was opened. To add to the puzzle, a witchdoctor was healed though he continued to refuse Jesus, while his wife professed Christ but was not healed. (Admittedly, Michael was uncertain of the genuineness of her profession.) About the only thing that can be said with certainty is that healing is in God’s hands.

Finally, the Rover arrived and the team loaded up their gear. The local people lined the way to say their good-byes and the vehicle fired up, once again to traverse its arduous trek. This time the destination was Hile, with some of the team returning to Pakhribas for rest and to attend other responsibilities.

In a room (approximately 9’ x 17’) barely able to contain the 56 individuals that came for healing in the little Hile Pentecostal church, the 3 member team prayed for approximately 25 people. To begin with, because there were so many, Tom spoke healing over the room. Only 2 received healing; one of which was partially blind regained his sight. Undeterred, Tom decided to return to his tried-and-true method of laying on of hands. The results were similar to those witnessed over the past couple of weeks

The word was out and many desired to be set free from Satan’s grip. Later that night, the 3 men stayed in a Hindu’s house; one that was healed during the meeting. Praise God that He is setting so many souls free in Nepal.

Sunday the 24^th of March marked the beginning of the second week of mission work in Pakhribas, East Nepal. By mid-day, a slow but steady stream of pastors and church leaders began to trickle in to register for the 3 day leadership conference. Around noon came a knock at the missionarys’ door. They had been requested to pray for a pastor that was having sciatic nerve pain from his lower back to the tip of his left foot. The condition was so severe that the man was forced to wear a special belt. They responded and moments later, the pastor was completely healed. (The same pastor then invited 2 members from his congregation that were in need of healing; one of which also needed healing from similar nerve damage. Both were healed during the course of the conference.) As the first session was about to begin, a lady stepped forward asking for prayer for a throat condition that threatened to prevent her from attending the meeting. Michael and Tom prayed for her and she was instantly healed to which she testified before all in attendance. Michael then taught on various methods of collecting information when preparing to write a sermon (hermeneutics) and Tom followed with a discussion on the art of sermon preparation (homiletics).

Monday started early with Tom leading a second seminar on preparing a sermon. Michael presented his second session later in the morning. Following lunch, and after a Hindu man prayed to accept Jesus as Lord, Tom spoke again. When it was Michael’s turn, the Lord led him to alter plans and briefly teach on signs and wonders. After prophesying over 2 people, he then opened the meeting for a time of healing. The response was the immediate formation of a healing line that stretched to the back of the church. Approximately 40 individuals were prayed for over the course of the next 2 and ½ hours, with needs mirroring those witnessed during Saturday’s service. The results were similar to those of Saturday’s service: around 85% completely healed; 10% partially healed; and 5% were not healed at the time. Two individuals that did not receive their healings deserve notation. One was a leper. As the men prayed for his healing, the Spirit showed Michael that the man was consulting a witchdoctor. When asked if this was correct, the man admitted the matter was true. He was then sternly rebuked, told of God’s desire for him to repent, and advised to counsel with the hosting church’s pastor. (Unfortunately, Michael was left with the impression the man would not follow through.) The second was a man that had developed partial paralysis due to experiencing extreme cold conditions while on the mountain. In this case, the Spirit privately divulged to the man he was holding anger and resentment within his heart; that he needed to repent. He admitted as much and then prayed his issues would be resolved. At the end of the night, Michael and Tom literally stumbled their way home along the rocky road to their temporary home, too exhausted to pray for another soul.

There is another event that should be mentioned; a manifestation of a demonic encounter. One woman that sought relief from chest pains and who did not receive that relief, came forth a second time for prayer. Michael announced that if anyone there sensed he or she should pray for the lady, for them to do so. A pastor stood and began to rebuke a spirit that had been troubling the woman. Immediately, she began to sway and shake violently; rolling back her eyes. This went on for several minutes until exhausted, the woman returned to her spot on the floor and laid down. The men learned afterward that before coming to Christ, the woman had spent her life as a witchdoctor. (Understand the encounter as you will, be it oppression or possession, the reality was that one who professed to be a sister in Christ was in trouble.) Relief would not come until the next day.

Tuesday marked the final day of the conference. At noon, following the completion of 2 workshops, the 3 days of seminars came to its completion. It was announced that following lunch, Michael and Tom would pray for anyone in need of healing. When they returned to the church, perhaps a dozen were waiting for prayer. But over the next 2 and ½ hours, others trickled in, including some area Hindus. Overall, approximately 20 people were prayed over and all 20 were healed. At least 2 events warrant additional mention.

One man, a Hindu and brother of a church elder, came for prayer for a urinary problem. He couldn’t pass his urine. Michael asked, “If Jesus heals you, will you accept Him as your God?” He said he would. Michael then told him to go to the toilet and then return with his report. The man did as he was told and reported he was healed. But when asked if he would now accept Jesus as his God, he declined. Michael pressed him and asked him “What Hindu god has ever healed you.” He responded “None.” But still he refused. Like his mother who’d been healed the night before, he was in a “dilemma” according to the translator. (He knew he would likely be disowned by his family if he were to come to Christ.) How sad it is to witness a mother and son healed, and yet neither could respond to the Gospel message.

A second report also warrants mention. The woman that manifested a demonic presence the day before was again present for prayer. In particular, Tom was troubled for her and was unshaken in his bid to see her set free from Satan’s grasp. After more prayer, still nothing had changed. So while Michael continued to pray for others, Tom set himself to intercede. After some time had passed, he led the sister in a prayer she was to voice; that renounced Satan, her past practices, and in praise to God for His grace and forgiveness. Immediately, her countenance changed visibly. Her joy and freedom were evident. Praise God!

Wednesday was for the most part, a day of rest. Aside from frequent quiet times in a few out of the way places along some of the most scenic views one could want, only a single event is worth noting. About a dozen church members invited the 2 missionaries to a home fellowship. Michael brought the lesson and then began to prophesy over the owner of the house. The lady interrupted to relate a story to the translator but when he began to share the that story with the missionaries, Michael stopped him. “I don’t want to know yet” he said. “You tell her what the Lord has revealed to me and then you can share her words.” With that, he began to relate the pain she had experienced for a long time regarding a particular matter she had been praying intensely for. He then described her loneliness, feelings that she had gotten nowhere with God, and more. Then the translator voiced what the woman had shared minutes earlier. Both Michael and the lady had spoken the same words. The difference came in the Lord’s promise to resolve the issue in a way she did not yet understand; that He’d already set His answer in motion. The sister burst into joy, relating how the word had given her great encouragement. The event clearly displayed the love and power of the mighty God Christian’s serve.

Thursday marked the beginning of a 10 day journey to visit a number of communities where the men would preach the Gospel and heal the sick. The newly expanded team that now included a youth and praise group, mounted (literally mounted) a Land Rover for their journey to Arkhaule Jitpur; 3 hours away. Six rode in the front cab, 4 in the back benched area, and 3 travelled on the luggage rack atop. As the team made its way along the winding mountain road, traversing some of the most beautiful land God ever created, it stopped at a small shop that crested 2 valleys nestled within a range of mountains. Michael and Tom had been asked to pray for a man who’d lost the use of his right hand. The man’s hand was drawn, with fingers curled and a limp wrist. The man was unable to control his fingers and had no feeling, even when pinched. After praying for the man and seeing no immediate success, the men prayed for 3 women who were healed. Then, returning to the man, they discovered he was regaining feeling and some movement. Later in the day, the team received a phone call and was told the man was able to grasp objects. Full recovery would come later.

Friday morning was given to outdoor evangelism in the Jitpur Bazar. The Nepali youth presented a presentation that included a dance, a Gospel message, tracts, and invitation to receive Jesus Christ. Eleven observers were born from above that day. Then the Nepali hosts asked Michael and Tom if they would like to pray for healing. Without fully understanding, they responded “Yes.” When prayers for healing were announced, the 2 men found themselves hard pressed by the crowd; with their backs to a wall—literally. Even so, 7 people were prayed for; 6 of which were Hindus.  A Christian lady was first to receive prayer and made completely well. When it came time for the other 6, they were asked if they would receive Jesus Christ if He healed them. All 6 said “yes,” but reneged once they were healed. (In truth, most were only partially healed.) Apparently, even wonders have their limit when it comes to reaching hearts that are more at home with familial traditions than worshipping the one true God. Michael sensed that one individual was in league with practicing spiritism, but chose for the moment to say nothing. The local pastor, knowing the woman, later referred to her as “antichrist.” When asked why, he seemed to confirm Michael’s suspicions as he told of past wicked deeds she’d done to lead astray 2 recent converts and their families.

After lunch at the church, 2 events should be mentioned. First, as head of the IPICM ministry, the pastor presented Michael with a letter requesting financial aid for erecting a new church; to be presented to churches in America upon his return. Then Michael spoke a prophetic word to the pastor. Very specific, the Lord repeatedly asked the pastor, “Do you remember when . . . ?” Beginning with his call to ministry, the Lord reminded him of the many stages they’d traveled together, including specific discussions they’d had, times of trial, dealings with government officials, brothers in leadership who were shown to have false motives, and more. The man wept as God spoke in ways that reminded him of their journey together. In the end, he was reassured of God’s ongoing presence and continued blessings to come. Next, the pastor asked Michael and Tom to pray for a man who could not attend the evening or next day service. They agreed and the man was prayed over and delivered from a neck and shoulder problem he’d suffered for years as the result of a fall. But full healing did not come until it was discerned by Tom that the man had an emotional struggle. Michael then referenced the man’s reluctance to serve and have fellowship with members of the church, as well as some anger issues in his heart over past matters. With the things of his heart laid bare, the man prayed for forgiveness and his healing was then instantly made complete.

Saturday, March 30^th, was the Nepali Christian day of worship—Easter on a Saturday. Tom brought the message and a time of healing followed. At least 20 people were prayed for with all but the last couple having their prayers answered. As in other places, all manner of afflictions were healed.

With ministry in Jitpur complete, the team mounted their Range Rover and traveled further up the mountain to the village of Nigale. As the day grew late, the team rested in the church. Arjun, the principle interpreter, had a DVD of Martin Luther in English, so everyone who spoke English gathered around his computer and the little group rejoiced over something as simple as a night at the movies.

The events that took place in the tiny 20’ x 40’ mud and bamboo Pentecostal church the next morning would eclipse everything the team had experienced to date. The healings and salvations among believers and Hindus would astonish everyone.