The Ends of the Earth: A walk in the past to make new friends in the present

Saturday, April 19, 2014--You can inform me that France is an old country, but when you encounter historic churches and buildings and towns from 800s then you gain a larger perspective of the history of this country. Moreover, when you engage the people you yearn for them to know Christ or to grow in Christ.

Pointing to reference of Charlemagne

In our travels we have been blessed with excellent translators and tour guides. After a late night in Montceau, we got to sleep at the Henchoz home. In the morning we enjoyed fresh, baked bread with a black courant marmalade. The warm bread steamed when I cut it and the courant melted on the slice. I truly enjoyed the breakfast prepared by Gwen for us.

Melissa and Daron are staying with the Henchoz family in Montceau while Jim & Stephanie are enjoying time with the Hoberts in Paray. The drive is about 30 minutes between the two towns. Hobie and Susie drive the distance many times a week.

So, the drive is like commuting from Mansfield to Wooster. In fact, it would be like living in Mansfield, OH and driving to Wooster, OH for church work. I praise God for the added sacrifice of time, gas expenses, and safety for every believer who seeks to enjoy fellowship.

Vendor from Basque region selling goat cheese in market

Next we took a drive to the market. Gwen does all the food shopping at a grocery store near their home. But they wanted to take us to the market downtown.

We gained insight into the challenge of making contacts. In the US, you can strike up a conversation with any stranger. Whereas in France, to do so is highly unlikely. You go to the market with friends. You don't go to the market to find friends. So, the difficulty of building relationships is heightened.

After the market we ate an appetizer before enjoying a wonderful lunch. Gwen prepared Beef Burgundy. Wow! She also purchased a strawberry tart for our dessert. If I lived in France, then I would gain 20 pounds in the first 6 months.

In the afternoon, we joined a faith walk. The church in Paray started this walk as an outreach to the community. The church team prepares a walk of 6-10km. Midway through the walk they stop for a snack of cookies, hot tea, or hot coffee. Next, a bible lesson is shared and dialogue is opened. In this non-threatening atmosphere, relationships are enhanced and movement towards the Gospel is initiated. What pleasure to witness God's people in action! The church in Paray is developing fully devoted followers of Christ.

After our 10km walk (6.2 miles) we returned to Paray for a meal with the Hoberts. Thanks to the Fidelis ABF we were able to take them out to eat. The local restaurant served a great steak with a cheese custard-like dish and an amazing chocolate cake. The meal took about 2 hours to eat from being seated to finishing our dessert. I found that meal time is extended and often does not start until 8pm or later. Moreover, we took a walking tour of the town as the Catholic church, the order of Sacred Heart began in Paray, conducted midnight mass to celebrate Easter.

The challenge of spiritual darkness is real in the towns where our missionary partners serve. It is palatable. Please pray! Keep them in your prayers always. We are so proud of Hobie & Susie and Dom & Gwen.