The Most Wonderful Phone Call!

Last night I got a delightful surprise. I was cleaning up after supper when my husband came in the kitchen, handed me the phone, and said, "Someone wants to speak with you." I said hello and heard a deep, distinctive voice on the other end. My heart and my flesh leaped for joy as I shouted, "Pastor Mon!"

It was our dear friend, Pastor Mon Igbinosa, from Nigeria, Africa. At our house we don't just like Pastor Mon, we don't just love Pastor Mon, we absolutely adore Pastor Mon! We've known Pastor Mon for over 20 years and though it's hard to fathom, God has intricately knit our hearts with this man who lives half a world away.

He used to come teach at our former church and over the years we've gotten to know him and watched him walk through some incredible struggles. In each and every case, he was above board, a man of integrity, the real deal. That's why I always look forward to his visits and his teaching, because I know how he lives and it lines up with what he says from the pulpit. Not to mention, he always brings the "meat" of the word of God.

We switched churches a year ago and lots of water went under the bridge and we lost touch with him. Last Sunday I was sitting in my new church thinking to myself that I wish Pastor Mon could come teach there too. The more I thought about him, the more I missed him. So, I said a prayer, "God, I thank you for bringing Pastor Mon back into our lives." Then I sat and dreamed about a new house closer to my new church and I said another little prayer, "Father, I thank you that one day I'm going to have that house and it will have a prophet's chamber (guest room) and when Pastor Mon comes to the United States, he's going to stay at our house."

Then we get this most wonderful phone call- the same week! He's coming through town in May and we're going to get together. I will take pictures so you can see our precious friend.

In my closet hangs a beautiful Nigerian dress- forest greens and purple with gold needlework- a gift from Pastor Mon. When I hear him teach again, I will wear that dress. Until then, it serves as a reminder of a wonderful friend and a God who answers prayer. Thank you, Lord!

I thank my God every time I remember you. Philippians 1:3