Living near Jerusalem has its obvious advantages and I am daily thankful to God. But sometimes I wish I were in the US so I could participate in things there. Like next month’s conference on Suffering and the Sovereignty of God. In a letter that Pastor John Piper wrote to his church members this week, he appeals to them to come to the conference. I just think – is it possible that someone who attends Bethlehem would consider missing this? I can’t imagine. It’s too far to fly from Israel, but to drive a half-hour? I think I would seriously consider it if I lived anywhere in the States. Fortunately, I expect that the messages will come out in audio and book form before too long.
These conferences are incredible experiences. I hope the Lord enables you to go to one in years to come.
I’m not going to the fall conference since I’ve heard Piper on the topic quite a bit already and I have to pick and choose my traveling carefully, but Cindi’s going with a friend. I’m hoping to go to the spring Pastor’s Conference, entitled: “How Must a Pastor Die? The Cost of Caring Like Jesus.” Piper’s biographical message will be on William Tyndale, who died many times over.
Press on. If I lived a 20-minute drive from Jerusalem, I wouldn’t miss that, either. :) Tell the students “Hi.”