As we write this newsletter, we are enjoying a short ten-day break in Sedgefield before the final leg of our journey back to Zambia. This little holiday has given us much-needed time to rest and reflect on the past six months in South Africa. It has also given us opportunity to pause and consider how the Lord has been faithful throughout our home assignment.

“The LORD has done great things for us, and we are filled with joy.”

Psalm 126:3

Bittersweet Goodbyes

At the beginning of our home assignment, it felt as though we had a very long time before us, but suddenly the months have slipped away and we find ourselves saying goodbye.

We wrapped up our time in Cape Town and left on the 15th of June after a lovely and prayerful send-off from our home church, Tokai Community Church, on Sunday the 14th. It was a very emotional and bitter-sweet day. We were so excited to be returning to Zambia and stepping into this next season of ministry, but it was also sad saying goodbye to dear friends and family in South Africa. Even little Caleb seemed to sense that something significant was changing.

The Blessing of God’s People

One of the greatest blessings of these past two months has been the many opportunities we have had to share about the work that God is doing in Zambia.

On the 9th of May, Tokai Community Church hosted a Missions Brunch where we had the privilege of sharing with more than forty people eager to hear about the ministry in Zambia. It was such an encouraging time of fellowship over good food and meaningful conversations. We were encouraged by the response from those who attended, and we are thankful that some were added to our team of supporters.

Over these past two months, Michael and I have also had several opportunities to preach and share at churches and Bible study groups. These opportunities have kept us very busy, but they have also been deeply encouraging. We have loved seeing people become excited about what God is doing in Zambia and hearing how the Lord has been faithful to use these stories to encourage others in their own walk with Him.

Busy but Sustained

These months have certainly been full! Between preparing sermons, meeting with people, sharing at churches, packing, moving, sorting, and finalising all the necessary admin for our return, there have been many moments where we have felt overwhelmed. But we have also experienced the Lord’s peace and sustaining grace.

The busyness of ministry and travel took its toll on all of us, and perhaps most noticeably on Caleb. Every Sunday seemed to bring a different church, new faces, and another change in routine. Yet the Lord has been faithful, and Caleb handled all the changes remarkably well.

It was especially precious to spend our final Sundays back at Tokai Community Church, including one Sunday where Michael had the opportunity to preach.

God’s Wonderful Provision

As we reflect on our six months of home assignment, we cannot help but praise God for His abundant provision.

The Lord graciously provided a home for us to live in rent-free for the entire six months. What an incredible gift this has been for our family and ministry.
He also provided us with the use of a borrowed vehicle that was spacious enough and served us faithfully throughout our time in South Africa. This vehicle enabled us to travel to churches, visit supporters, and attend the many meetings and ministry opportunities that filled our schedule

Looking back, we can clearly see God’s hand of provision over every aspect of our home assignment. Once again, He has reminded us that He knows our needs and faithfully provides for His children.

“And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus.”

Philippians 4:19

Changed Plans and Trusting God

As our return to Zambia drew closer, we were faced with an unexpected complication regarding Caleb’s visa.

Our original plan had been to remain in South Africa until after the SIM South Africa Spiritual Life Conference and then return to Zambia on the 13th of July. However, after considering all our options, it became clear that we needed to change our plans and return before his visa expired at the end of June.

Changing our plans at the last minute brought a measure of uncertainty and disappointment. We had looked forward to attending SLC and spending a little more time in South Africa. Yet the Lord, in His faithful providence, had different plans for our family.

Our current plan is to arrive in Durban on the 28th of June after our break along the Garden Route. From there our family will temporarily split up. Michael will fly back to Cape Town and begin the adventurous overland journey to Zambia on the motorbike we have fondly named “Muzungu”. Caleb and I will fly back to Zambia on the 30th of June and wait expectantly for Michael to arrive safely after his four- to five-day journey.

These changes have reminded us once again that although we make our plans, it is the Lord who directs our steps.

“In their hearts humans plan their course, but the LORD establishes their steps.”

Proverbs 16:9

Looking Forward

As grateful as we are for all the people we have seen and all the wonderful things we have been able to do during these past six months, our hearts are eager to return to Zambia. We are excited to be reunited with our SIM community, and the ministry that the Lord has entrusted to us there.

As we close this chapter of home assignment and begin the next season of ministry, our hearts are full of gratitude. The Lord has been faithful to us. He has provided for every need, encouraged us through His people, sustained us through the busyness of these months, and given us peace as we prepare to return.

Thankful for You

Thank you so much for your partnership with us. Thank you for your prayers, your encouragement, your financial support, and your friendship. We are deeply grateful to have you walking this journey with us.