“When you were young, you did what you liked and went wherever you chose…” (John 21:18) That was Peter the disciple, but it was also me in my teen years. But when saved at age 21 everything changed. During my forties and fifties, there were times when I ministered apostolically in various nations: not going where I chose but wherever sent by the Lord. And because I was sent — “Some were sent and some just went” — signs followed (Mark 16:17).
There were — still are — times when the power of God fell on meetings, as in the house of Cornelius (Acts 10). It goes without saying that I cannot make that or anything like it happen; however, expecting that it will happen has never been a problem. First on the island of Borneo, (East Malaysia) then in the Philippines, then in the UK and also in various locations around the globe.
The Lord spoke to me years ago in a dream and told me that when I arrive in a certain EU nation, “everything will be ready for you.” That mission is yet to take place; however, I do know the nation.
Whenever I think of my age and the time I may have left, I conclude that the years ahead are likely to be busy ones! I’ve learned to sharpen the axe (so to speak) and by so doing transfer the energy from the muscles to the blade (Ecclesiastes 10:10). A sharp, cutting-edge anointing of power results in less energy spent while ministering. I expect the Lord to do whatever He wills, wherever He will, in spite of any lack of foreknowledge on my part. In fact, I have come to enjoy the surprises!
Church tradition informs us how that years after Jesus identified the impulsive character of the young Peter, the by then aged Apostle Peter stretched out his hands on a cross and at his request was nailed to it upside down. He considered himself unworthy to die as his Lord had.
Given the choice, I would rather die in my sleep! But hands willingly outstretched speak of being open for the Lord to end a believer’s life is a good ending — however and wherever that ending may take place.
The ideal ending, of course, would to be “caught up and away” while alive to meet the Lord in the air — and so with others living at the time cheat death in my last moment — and all to the ear-piercing sound of a heavenly trumpet! All good!
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