I am in Brisbane, Australia for a few days on my final leg of a three-city teaching tour. It's been great but I am homesick for pickled ogo, teriyaki chicken and most of all, the warm hearts of the New Hope 'ohana.

Thank you for allowing me to take time and mentor the pastors of two great nations: Australia and New Zealand. I know that part of our assignment is to develop leaders in the Pacific Rim. Bill Hybels (Pastor of Willow Creek Church in Chicago) and I have been doing back to back forums and sessions with over 400 pastors of some the most influential churches in these nations. Adelaide, Melbourne, and Brisbane are our stops where pastors fly in from cities as far as Perth, Tasmania, Alice Springs, Auckland, and Christchurch.

I've met many people but the lesson I'm taking to heart is that Jesus has called me to a wonderful church in the middle of the Pacific called New Hope Christian Fellowship.

This weekend Pastor Jonathan Smith will be speaking. We have a wonderful teaching team at New Hope, and every message resounds with current truths that will enrich our lives. I'll be home next week and can't wait to see everyone!

Until then, God bless you and stay healthy. You are loved!