Steve on the Road to Dakar

This morning, Steve, along with 4 others, took off in our truck for Dakar, Senegal. The primary purpose of this 2-day road trip is to meet with others interested in a combined effort to reach an unreached people group that spans Senegal, Guinea, and Mali. At this point we have no idea what, if any, part Avant Ministries will play in this effort, but we cannot know unless we seek to find out. Already, challenging discussions have been had, and new relationships have been made. We are looking forward to seeing how God directs everyone involved!

One more exciting aspect of this trip is that Steve will be picking up Anthony Fleischmann, Avant's newest appointee to Mali! Anthony will be driving the long trip back to Mali with Steve, and will spend two weeks experiencing life and ministry here. He, along with his wife, Tracy, and two kids became official in January after attending the candidate orientation program in Kansas City. Anthony and Tracy are originally from South Africa, but have lived the past ten years in the US. They are currently living in Birmingham, Alabama, and are members of our home church. Not only are we looking forward to having a part of our Sunday school class here in Mali with us, but we are especially excited to see how God uses their unique gifts and abilities to help encourage and equip the Malian church. We would love to have them here yesterday, but we also recognize that God works in every step along the way: not just when they arrive on the field.

• Please pray for safety on the road, and that there would be no mechanical difficulties along the way. Steve just called and said that a part of the A/C unit on the truck broke (not a good thing in this weather!) but fortunately they were able to find the part and install it in short order. They are up and running once again. I am ever so thankful for a handy husband!
• Pray for the discussions that will be taking place in the next few days. Pray that God would clearly lead each individual and group involved.
• Pray for Anthony's time here in Mali, as well as the Fleischmann's time of prayer and support raising. Pray that they would be encouraged at the same time that they encourage others for missions.

Pictures to come soon! Thanks to all for praying!