GlocalNet

Since arriving in Syria my trip has been nothing less than fantastic.  Nikki and I have traveled across the country seeing things, experiencing the people and the culture. We have had many meetings that were planned that have been very good where we have discussed our different views of faith and yet how we work together.  At the same time the most exciting things are all of the chance encounters that have taken place.

One of the best meetings occurred while we were visiting an ancient church that had the oldest Christian altar in it dating back to 150 A.D. (they think). While we were there a bus tour of Iranians with their Imam pulled up.  When we saw one another, we pointed at one another realizing they were Iranians, and them guessing we were Americans.  Through very broken English we began to talk with one another.  It was an incredible and spectacular event.  To be there to watch it and to experience was an exceptional experience, just to catch the mood, knowing our countries are tense with each another. 

The Imam asked me, “How do you feel about the world situation and the relationship between America and Iran?”  I told him, “I am a human being, a Christian pastor and a follower of God.  I just want to be his friend.” He said, “I feel the exact same way.”  We talked.  We exchanged information.  I told him I wanted to visit his country one day.  He invited me to his city of Ishtafan.  There will be more dialogue there. 

Today I will be speaking at the Al-Andaluse Institute for Islamic Studies, so keep us in mind.

The trip is going extremely well.  We are having fun meeting many new friends and rekindling relationships with people we met last year when we were here.

The opportunities to serve God here are great and we are excited to be here among these people.  Keep us in mind.  Keep us in prayer.  Great things are happening.  When I get home I will have many, many pictures to share and much more to write.