In September, we began our work in Spain in the most unforgettable way—
with a baptism like no other! The Alboran Sea was unusually rough that day. The waves were far above our heads, and many people felt we should just reschedule the baptisms.
The first to be baptized was a small but courageous 13-year-old Spanish girl named Daniela. She was determined. When she overheard us considering postponing the baptisms due to the dangerous conditions, she boldly declared, “It’s now or never!” Then, without hesitation, she marched straight into the sea to face the 9-foot waves—grinning with fearless determination. Both her parents were understandably concerned and nervous to see how this would turn out.
Watching her walk out into such tumultuous waters made me think of our lives as Christians. We are called to go out into the roaring sea of people (the world) to face waves of so many kinds. And sometimes the temptation is to delay or reschedule our calling to a more “convenient” time, but God calls today, those who would hear Him. He calls us today to face the waves that, without His grace, would be unbearable. He calls us today to follow Him, THE Victor, OUR Victor, into the world to achieve His purposes, not ours. He has determined our days. He is our Keeper. Our confidence is in Him, and we will not be put to shame.
As she entered the water, she battled the waves. At times we all found ourselves literally face-planted on the sea floor! Once she reached us, her uncle and I held on to her tightly as we waited for a break between the waves to baptize her. And once our opportunity arrived, we lowered her into the water like so many others have done for thousands of years, at risk of and, in truth, to give their earthly lives in honor of our Saviour Jesus Christ. It was an incredible moment—watching someone quite literally laugh in the face of fear while publicly declaring Jesus as Lord. I could not help but to think: “Now this is a real baptism!”
We were able to baptize all six that day! Thank you, Jesus!
Filled church:
The following day, Sunday morning, we held our first service, and the place was completely full! The pastors shared with me that they’ve actually lost people simply because they’ve run out of room. In Spain it’s rare to see a church filled to capacity, so this is both a blessing and a challenge. They have been looking for another location for some time now. Please pray with Pastors Antonio and Marimar about the possibility of renting or purchasing a larger facility to accommodate their growth.
That morning, I had the privilege of sharing a message on “Being a True Disciple of Christ”. When I gave the invitation, it seemed as though every person in the room responded, not just confirming or receiving salvation, but fully committing to the call of being a true disciple of Christ.
It was a powerful moment, witnessing hearts stirred not only to believe in Jesus but to follow Him with wholehearted devotion.
We will be in Spain for the rest of October. We are seeking the Lord about how we can continue the work of encouraging and strengthening the churches here. We ask that you join us in prayer, believing that God will stir the hearts of His people to reach not only their own nation but all of Europe and beyond with the Gospel.
Also on the agenda is a trip to Scotland— a nation where, for the vast majority, Christianity is seen as nothing more than an empty 200-year-old church building. It’s estimated that only 1% to 3% of the population are active Christians. And yet God has opened remarkable doors! More info to come.
Thank you to all who are co-laboring with us in prayer, support, and encouragement. God is absolutely on the move!
