Hope Fulfilled, Hope Continued

What a month it has been! We’ve experienced deep joy, answered prayers, and the sweet reminder that God’s timing—though often slower than ours—is always perfect. October has been a month of celebration, reflection, and renewed hope for what lies ahead.

We are praising the Lord this month for the incredibly wonderful gift of Caleb Chiyembekezo Watson. (Chiyembekezo means Hope in Chichewa.)

Our court date was set for Monday, 13 October, but the adoption was only concluded on the 16th due to a small error in his new name on our application. Thankfully, the judge graciously allowed us to correct the mistake and return to complete the hearing within the same week.

“Hope deferred makes the heart sick, but a longing fulfilled is a tree of life.” 
Proverbs 13:12

We are so relieved and thankful that this long and complicated process is finally over. After more than 15 months of waiting, praying, and many tears and frustrations, our boy is now legally adopted and fully part of our family.

We celebrated in true South African style—around a braai and bonfire with lots of pap en vleis (stiff maize porridge and meat). What made the evening extra special was our new tablecloth from Tokai Community Church’s Kids Ministry. It’s covered with the handprints, names, and messages from all the children and leaders. It felt like the perfect moment to bring it out. We even added our own handprints to it, symbolizing our togetherness in Christ—even across borders.

Although we now have the adoption order, we are still waiting for the official adoption certificate from the registrar’s office. Once we receive it, we can apply for Caleb’s new birth certificate and passport. These are final steps before we can travel to South Africa for our much-needed home assignment.

This waiting has reminded us once again that God’s timing is perfect, even when processes take longer than we hoped. Please pray with us that all the paperwork will be completed smoothly and without unnecessary delays.

“Great is the Lord and most worthy of praise; his greatness no one can fathom.
One generation commends your works to another; they tell of your mighty acts.“
Psalm 145:3-4

It’s hard to believe that our first three-year term in Zambia is drawing to a close. SIM recommends that missionaries spend about two months of home assignment for each year in the field—so we’re planning for six months in South Africa.

While we originally hoped to travel by December 2025, it’s become clear that the timing won’t work due to the slow pace of administrative processes here. Our new tentative plan is to be in South Africa from January to July 2026.

During that time, we’ll be visiting our supporting churches, sharing updates and vision, and reconnecting with friends, family, and supporters. If you would like us to visit while we’re in your area—or if your church would be interested in having us speak—please let us know so we can include you in our travel plans. We look forward to seeing you again and being mutually encouraged by one another.

Although we are no longer in official roles at Christ Church Lusaka, we continue to attend and serve as needed. This month, Michael has helped with music, service leading, and preaching, and we’ve continued meeting with individuals for discipleship and mentorship.

In addition, Michael has become more involved in the Langham Preaching Partnership. In November, he’ll travel to Ghana for the All Africa Leadership Consultation, a gathering of Langham Preaching leaders from across the continent. It’s an exciting opportunity for learning, networking, and sharing ministry experiences. Langham Partnership are covering all costs for this training. This is a real blessing and encouragement.

“My mouth will tell of your righteous deeds, of your saving acts all day long—
    though I know not how to relate them all.“
Psalm 71:15

We are deeply grateful for your faithful prayers and support through this season of waiting and celebration. God’s hand has been evident in every detail—some challenging, some joy-filled—but all pointing to His faithfulness.