Some days do not unfold the way you expected….
Yet often those are the very days where God reminds you that His plans have never depended on ours.
Our original schedule was to minister at the university, but a delay meant those plans had to change. Instead of standing behind a podium, we found ourselves walking through three different markets across Bujumbura alongside local pastors and leaders who faithfully translated for us.
The markets are unlike anything many of us have experienced. They are loud, vibrant, busy and filled with life. They are also a reminder that the Gospel was never meant to stay inside church buildings. Jesus walked the streets. He met people where they were. That is exactly what today felt like.
Market outreach stretches you. It pushes you beyond comfort and into genuine connection. Different languages, different customs and a completely different way of life mean you cannot rely on familiar “methods” or “recipes.” We were once again reminded of our absolute dependence on Holy Spirit…that THIS is not to have a platform or to be known, for what can a mere human do to transform a life? We are here to serve and love others like Jesus and make HIM known.
During this type of outreach, you learn to smile before you speak. You learn to listen before you teach. You discover that kindness, compassion and the love of Jesus communicate long before words ever do.
I remember a time we ministered in the streets and even though I did not speak the same language as the person opposite me, we understood each other fully. I spoke English. They spoke Swahili. He didn’t know English. I don’t know Swahili. Yet, by God’s miraculous, creative power we were able to converse in two different languages and understand each other fully. I was able to lead that man to Jesus and ensure he is looked after by a pastor on the amazing journey that lies ahead for him.
I am not here to report on the thousands saved during a crusade. Jesus’ heart in me is to ensure the Great Commission is followed-through on. What does a massive number of salvations mean if nobody will be discipling them afterwards? If discipling is left out, how many people will still be saved next year? For some, next week?
Many ministries have focused on one word of the Great Commission for way too long… “GO!” Many times it feels as if that is the most difficult part of it… Until you get to “and make disciples of all nations, baptising them and teaching them My commandments. And ‘lo, I am with you always.” Matthew 28. Discipleship, growth, commitment, teaching someone the things of Jesus and how to live a life that glorifies Him… THAT is where it gets real. That is why we are partnering with local pastors and churches, training them and teaching them, so that we know the full instruction of the Great Commission is being lived here.
And my favourite part of the Great Commission? “… and ‘lo, I am with you always.” Jesus never wanted us to fulfil this Commission alone. He is always right here, closer than our breath, ministering to His people…
What really stood out today was not the size of the crowds but the openness of people’s hearts. Thank you for remaining committed to praying for and with us – this is the result of those prayers! Every invitation to the crusade carried the hope that one conversation could become someone’s turning point with Jesus.
After lunch we joined a public gathering on one of the main roads. The sound of tribal drums echoed through the streets as people gathered. Police were present to help manage the growing crowds and there was a real sense that something significant is drawing near. We spent the afternoon meeting people face-to-face, sharing the invitation and seeing how the Spirit of God is building expectation for what God is about to do over the coming days. The soil has been prepared through prayer, and now, partnering with prayer, it is being prepared with connection.
Later we visited the crusade grounds once again. What was an open field only days ago is becoming a place prepared for an encounter with God. The stage is taking shape, the framework continues to rise and the Fire Tent, where people will receive prayer, deliverance and ministry, now stands ready.
There is something beautiful about watching physical preparation mirror spiritual preparation. Every pole lifted, every cable connected and every chair placed is a reminder that someone is making room for another person to encounter Jesus. I was reminded of a well-known Scripture, but not as well known in The Passion Translation:
Isaiah 54:2-3
Thank You Jesus! We receive this Word for this mission. Hallelujah! Once you realise that you are a mere vessel for God to show His glory, there is nothing in you that wants to or can hold back. It reminds me of the famous words of Evangelist John Wesley: “Light yourself on fire with passion for Jesus, and people will come for miles to watch you burn.” Every day I experience how my heart burns more and more for more of Jesus.
This is what missions is really about.
It is not simply organising an event. It is preparing a place where someone’s eternity can change in a moment.
Please continue praying with us.
Pray for the teams serving behind the scenes, for strength and protection over every volunteer, for unity among the churches, for open hearts across Burundi and, above all, that the Name of Jesus alone will be lifted high.
We are believing that lives will not simply be touched, but transformed by the tangible love and presence of Jesus…
The field is being prepared. The invitations have gone out. Now we wait with great expectation for what only God can do. And this is not a fleshly waiting – it is an expectant waiting full of faith and fire to be the hands and feet of Christ Jesus – His hands and feet that were nailed to the Cross – now able to move freely through a sold-out people ready to make HIM known! To let HIM be the Artist holding us, His paintbrushes, as He puts together the masterpiece on His heart for Burundi. Use us, Lord!
May our obedience go far beyond what is comfortable, and may we be bold and courageous and follow the Comforter Himself as He brings deliverance, healing, breakthrough, transformation, reconciliation and salvation to HIS people.
“Here am I, Lord. Send me.” A dangerous prayer. But a holy one. A prayer many times prayed without full understanding of what it means… But on the other side of that prayer is our God, Who knows the heart, and sends those who are willing to lay down their lives to make Him known. And not even by their own strength, by His grace and courage, no fear, no holding back, ONLY JESUS!
We would love to hear from you in the comments, it is very encouraging to know we all share alike!
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