I still remember vividly my first encounter with Mark, tall lanky ex-policemen from Eastern Africa, whose infectious smile and friendly disposition was a welcome relief, as I tried to navigate the cultural and linguistic pitfalls of my early days in Lebanon. He had entered the seminary after having completed a stint on board M.V.Logos, the floating library and bookshop, owned and operated by Operation Mobilization. He visited many exciting ports and witnessed to the transforming love of God. He worked hard on the ship and was clever enough to have picked up more than passing knowledge in Spanish and English.

But when Mark and his wife Linda entered the seminary, they had more than their fair share of heartaches and troubles. When Linda became pregnant, Mark discovered that the financial cost of having a child in Lebanon was more than he could imagine. They had lovely twin girls. But soon after birth one of the infants died, plunging Mark and Linda into grief.

During our many encounters, Mark had shared with me his longing to return to his country and minister among his own people. This is not an easy decision. Most Christian young people from this area tend to leave, and the decades of civil war makes the prospects of return even less attractive. Mark, however, was different. He had passion for mission and longed to share the Good News of Jesus with his own people. Since direct evangelism is difficult in many parts of his country, Mark had a plan to open a stationary and bookstore, with a photocopying machine. He wanted to make a living for himself and his family. But was also sure that his modest business operation would also open up to him enough opportunities to socialize and build-up relationships. He was confident that given adequate time and effort, he would parlay that into opportunities to witness and win people for Christ. His earnest pleas for prayers and financial support soon struck a responsive chord in the hearts of a few partners. Mark, Linda, and family packed up their modest belongings, and returned to Eastern Africa soon after graduating from ABTS.

Recently I met, a Lebanese Baptist pastor, who had just returned after an exciting visit to Mark and Linda's country. He had visited the area, where Mark and Linda have decided to establish their ministry, a simple bookstore. He said that the place is bright and welcoming. The books on the shelf are varied in topics. After you are welcomed in and exchange greetings, you cannot help but notice the Bibles displayed, rather discreetly. There are also other Christian books. As you ask to see one of the books, a sweet Christian woman assists you. She works in the store, when Mark is out and about on His Father's business.

Within just a few months of beginning his ministry in this area of Eastern Africa, Mark had built up a wide network of acquaintances, some of which were in high government positions. During the last Christmas season he had rented the soccer stadium- a dusty flat piece of land that serves as the soccer field. Hundreds of people attended the Christmas celebration, including some of the high government officials. In the months of January to March, Mark had planned on an intercessory prayer walk into three areas of this region. He plans to walk into these towns, pray, witness, and distribute tracts and New Testaments.

Let us uphold Mark and his bold and determined witness in our prayers, as he travels. Let us also pray for the ministry carried out through his bookstore. Let us pray that the seeds being sown will in time bear fruit. May God's grace and protection surround Mark, Linda, and their fellow co-workers.