Hawaii is more than just an island with palm trees and perfect weather surrounded by a gorgeous ocean. It is an island filled with people. And these people are more than just surfers and hoola dancers! While ministering in Hawaii we are truly getting a heart for the dear people here and gaining a greater appreciation for the labor of their pastors and pastors' wives.
Last night we had the great privilege of being with Pastor Kevin Akana, his sweet wife Roxanne, their five adorable children and their dear church people of Windward Baptist Church. We received a very warm Aloha welcome from these brothers and sisters in Christ and were blessed by their tender spirits and gratefulness for all the Lord has done for them.
After the service Jeremy and I were blessed to be able to continue the fellowship as we went out for supper with Pastor Kevin and Roxanne. We enjoyed swapping humorous stories, laughter and sweet fellowship in the Lord. Jeremy and I left with a real burden for their ministry. Pastor Kevin is a native of the island and God has given him and his wife a heart to reach the needy souls of his fellow Hawaiians, especially those bound by the chains of alcohol and drug addictions. The drug abuse is all around them, and the people know this church is a place of refuge – a place they can turn to when they have reached the end and are ready to turn their lives around. The love for these people and deep desire to see them free in Christ flows through Pastor Kevin and Roxanne.
Last night we had the great privilege of being with Pastor Kevin Akana, his sweet wife Roxanne, their five adorable children and their dear church people of Windward Baptist Church. We received a very warm Aloha welcome from these brothers and sisters in Christ and were blessed by their tender spirits and gratefulness for all the Lord has done for them.
After the service Jeremy and I were blessed to be able to continue the fellowship as we went out for supper with Pastor Kevin and Roxanne. We enjoyed swapping humorous stories, laughter and sweet fellowship in the Lord. Jeremy and I left with a real burden for their ministry. Pastor Kevin is a native of the island and God has given him and his wife a heart to reach the needy souls of his fellow Hawaiians, especially those bound by the chains of alcohol and drug addictions. The drug abuse is all around them, and the people know this church is a place of refuge – a place they can turn to when they have reached the end and are ready to turn their lives around. The love for these people and deep desire to see them free in Christ flows through Pastor Kevin and Roxanne.
Yes, they enjoy the nice weather and gorgeous creation of Hawaii but their joy lies in seeing a former drug addict sharing the freedom of knowing Christ with those who are still bound. This is the heart of Hawaii!
2 comments:
Jeremy looks good with the tails out!
Glad to see you are both doing well. Also glad to have the link to your new blogspot. I'll check in often. Take care.
Ben
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