Howdy, Part 2

As you heard on Sunday night in the library, I grew up at Alice Drive when it was on Miller Road. I made my profession of faith at the age of 9 and was baptized by Dr. Haselden in 1979. I was very much into the youth program and even dedicated my life to full-time ministry on a youth retreat at the age of 15. But, due to choices and circumstances, I ran from that commitment and even ran from God for a long time.

It was my wife, Tricia, being saved while on a military trip in Honduras, that brought me back home to God. Of course, at first, I didn't see it that way and Satan did his best to keep me from seeing the light that was shining on my path. God was always there for me, waiting for me. I had to get past trying to make everything perfect and learn that there was nothing that was going to satisfy my looking for that "something" to make my life perfect. He already made it perfect and it was right there in front of me, waiting for me to accept it. It also took a long time for me to tear down the walls and get rid of the old excuses that were keeping me away from God's presence. I know the prayers of some of the faithful at ADBC made the difference and I thank God for those who have prayed for me for so many years. Tricia is such a blessing and a lifeline for my life. I would not be on this mission trip or on the path I am on today without her by my side. God brought her into my life for a reason.

But, God allowed me to experience everything for a reason and I know that even my darkest and most lonely experiences and "time in the gutter" were for a purpose. He wants to use me to reach others who are also in the midst of the same, and far worse, circumstances. That is reassuring and also what inspires me for these mission trips to Africa. Having the awareness that God rescued and protected me so many times is a heavy thing. But, it is also the highest inspiration that will be there to draw upon on during those long flights and the lack of comfort we will sometimes endure. I know God loves us and he loves that we want to be the hands and feet of Jesus to those little children and those suffering in Africa.

I can't wait for the plane to take off and the journey to begin. Nonetheless, I know that my personal journey towards Africa started so many years ago and I look forward to what God is going to accomplish through us in Botswana and around the world. We are laying the foundation for the bridge to connect ADBC with Africa and with the Sumter community. No pressure there, right?

If you want to waste some time and can't sleep (Kim, not necessarily talking about you ;-) ), you can check out more about me, including pictures of my beautiful wife, 2 boys, my dog and cat, et al over here : Johnson Family Web

See ya on the 28th ready to roll!!!