I'm sitting in my room at the University of the Nations in Kona, Hawaii. As I look out my window I gaze to the west and the seemingly endless Pacific ocean. It is a spectacular place. The island is home to one of the most active volcanoes in the world. Ancient lava flows dominate the landscape. I hope to get the chance to explore it a little this week.
But I'm not here as a tourist. Really, I'm not. I'm here at the invitation of Jon Morris who is leading a Discipleship Training School (DTS) that trains young people for mission. The 300 or so students come from all corners of the globe and in turn soon will be sent to all corners. Together with three other teachers I will have the privilege of sharing with them this week. Jon has asked me to talk about the church on mission - a subject I am passionate about. It should be a lot of fun.
Already I am seeing that this week will be a great blessing to me. I have met some great and inspiring people already.
On the 9.5 hour trip from Australia I sat next to Lance who was returning home to the US after a mission trip to Australia. His passion for the gospel was infectious.
Today at Kona I have met Shaun, Jon's great friend who will teach with me this week.
Then there is Ben, a Samoan who is married to a Kiwi who are both living in Hawaii and who will soon lead a mission trip to Japan.
And Samuel, a young bloke from Finland with a surfer's physique and a passion for Jesus.
Man, I'm going to learn a lot this week.
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