Entry 1
Before embarking on this great journey across the globe The Lord released this encouragement: “You go as a scout to discover the new moves of God in ancient realms. Something brand new and unexpected will be seen. You will be recognized, known when you enter these places. Your initial visit 22 years ago was as a prodigal but you return as a blazing believer with a redeemed family of believers!”
As I sat in the luxurious den of our rental which overlooks Acropolis, specifically The Parthenon, my soul was stirred to lift up and magnify my God. Before the sun arose my eyes danced across the features of this glorious ancient temple illuminated from ground lights and constructed by hearts dedicated to Athena, a false god. I sat quietly with the Lord marveling over this misguided creation of man wondering what I could do with my time here in this city to “stamp” this region with the glory of the True, One, and Living God! I began with my daily reading:
“Now you are the body of Christ, and members individually. And God has appointed these in the church: first apostles, second prophets, third teachers, after that miracles, then gifts of healings, helps, administrations, varieties of tongues. Are all apostles? Are all prophets? Are all teachers? Are all workers of miracles? Do all have gifts of healings? Do all speak with tongues? Do all interpret? But earnestly desire the best gifts. And yet I show you a more excellent way.”
I Corinthians 12:27-31 NKJV
Immediately the Lord trumpeted to me: “I’ve sent My best people here….”
“Now while Paul waited for them at Athens, his spirit was provoked within him when he saw that the city was given over to idols.”
Acts 17:16 NKJV
Paul was another of the Lord’s servants sent here by God, and when he arrived he too felt a longing to see the Lord lifted high above earthly idols made with human hands.
“Earnestly desire the best gifts” grabbed my heart. We are to want the best of these spiritual gifts! I’ve discovered in over 20 years of walking with God that He gives you the desires of your heart. He plants the desire and brings it to fulfillment. God’s people are often drawn to the gifts He has called them to operate in.
How will God use this family in our visit to this ancient city where the Lord has sent countless believers over decades and centuries to impact the land for the Kingdom of God?
On May 22nd as I was preparing for this journey I was worshipping God along with other believers at an Aglow gathering in Ocean Springs, MS when suddenly the Lord exclaimed: “exalt me over every port! Lift up the name of God over every place and by name declare Him Lord over that region!”
The realization washed over me that it is the exact same Jesus who stood in the spirit with the apostles in Greece. He instructed them on what to say and do while they were there. Now we go with the same Jesus as our tour guide highlighting what happened there in the past and instructing us on what do to today to forever mark this region for His glory!