January 2026
Taking the Gospel to Remote Places
Remote areas are my favorite places to take the gospel message.
Martha, one of our regional leaders, traveled into a very remote area called Balaka. In the picture, she is seated in the middle, facing us, as the women gather outside to learn in the shade of a tree. This is what I often call “real Africa.” No church has been established in this area, and when Lydia Circle Ministries comes to places like Balaka, it is often the very first time people have heard about Jesus and the gospel message. Sitting together under a tree, opening God’s Word, and sharing the hope of Christ reminds us why this ministry is so important—reaching those who have never had the opportunity to hear. This is my favorite place to do ministry. The women are open, eager to learn, and deeply attentive. I have even slept under the stars in some of these locations. It is very safe and, during the summer months, much cooler than staying inside homes. These remote areas hold great potential for growth, and we have seen new churches planted in many of them. Life here is simple. People are largely sheltered from technology, and most meals are prepared over an open fire. This way of life recently reminded me of a passage from Scripture: “Jesus said to them, ‘Come away by yourselves to a remote place and rest a while’” (Mark 6:31). Even though we are working and training in these villages, they are also quiet places—far removed from the distractions of cities and the Western world. I love sitting under a tree, watching families and children gather to share meals and talk about what is happening in their community. For me, it is a place of rest, an opportunity to be away from everyday distractions. Jesus often called His disciples to remote places. He knew they needed rest. As we begin this new year, has He called you to a place where you can rest? Where you can pray and meditate on His Word? Where you can bring your plans to Jesus for His guidance in the new year?
