Final Leg of My Sabbatical Leave

Hey everyone! I am packing my belongings getting ready to make the hour-and-a-half drive to LAX airport. It is 4:30AM California time and I have about an hour before I leave for the airport. It has been an incredible experience to dialogue and "do life together" with Tim and Carolyn for the past two weeks; God has given them a vital relationship as they work with the pastors and churches of the Gold Coast Association to become a biblical community affecting and impacting the Ventura/Camarillo/Simi Valley area of Los Angeles for the Lord and I have seen firsthand the struggle and dilligence of this couple whom I call dear friends. Friendship takes work but it is so very sweet when God joins hearts together in unity and love! This has been an eye-opener to walk with them to see that the ministry of any church goes far beyond the physical borders of their community; it really has the great potential to impact the world if we are willing to trust God and do His will. However the words of the Apostle Paul in Ephesians 6:10-20 ring true here in California as it does in Hilo, Hawaii: "Finally, be strong in the Lord and in His mighty power. Put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil's schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after your have done everything, to stand. . . . And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the saints. Pray also for me, that whenever I open my mouth, words may be given me so that I will fearlessly make known the mystery of the gospel, for which I am an ambassador in chains. Pray that I may declare it fearlessly, as I should." We are in a spiritual battle for the souls of many and with God's help, we will overcome! Thank you again for all your prayers and your support for me, my family, Gail, Ken and for each other at Kinoole! We are indeed so blessed to have the Lord and each other! I am halfway through my spiritual pilgrimage and I miss you all! Keep on Loving God, Loving People and Serve! I love you more than words can express! See you in September! Daniel