2023 Florida School of Preaching Lectureship

The church is different from the world, and so it should be in so many ways. Martha and I were privileged to attend this year’s Florida School of Preaching lectures (January 16-19, 2023). It is always pleasant to be among the caliber of Christians who assemble for such occasions.

One facet of the communal gather of saints this week must be reflective of the masses to be in Heaven. Several ethnicities or races came together without notice of those incidental differences. Likewise, various nations were represented, too – also without distinction. Surely, of such races and nations will Heaven be comprised (Revelation 7:9-10).

I’ve found it largely so overseas as well. Races are politically divided in Guyana, South America. However, inside the church, it does not matter whether someone is of African, of East Indian or of Amerindian descent. We are brethren (Genesis 13:8Hebrews 13:1).

Burma or Myanmar in Asia is made up of tribal peoples, who historically hated and even warred against each other. Inside the Lord’s church, though maybe with tears (I have witnessed personally), Christians love and labor with each other because of Jesus Christ in them.

Martha and I were edified and encouraged in so many ways from the all day, everyday lectures. In addition, it was good to renew old acquaintances and meet other brethren for the first time. Just imagine the reunion with dear brethren and the awesome opportunity to meet other brethren from across the ages when we arrive in Heaven!

Holiday Photo

A few weeks ago, our daughter Rebecca was visiting us in Florida when this picture was made. I don’t usually like photos of me because they shock me when I unavoidably observe the stark contrast between how I remember myself from years past and the reality of the present. However, I like this picture, perhaps because the two most important women in my life today appear, too.