As Dave and I OUTFLOWed in cities, I saw believers eager to find ways to bring Jesus to people who would rather not be bothered with "religion."  Not much different in the USA really.

New Zealanders are a uniquely secure people.  No world enemies threaten them.  A socialistic government works hard to legislate safety and security. Sports are hot (heard of rugby's All Blacks?).  Standard of living is comfortable.  NZ doesn't even have any animals that are poisonous or dangerous. They do have hundreds of thousands of sheep!

We saw Christians already making significant impact through practical relational ventures -- a ministry of foot washing and toe nail clipping for elderly who cannot bend over -- a church buying a pub (Christian music videos play in the pool room) to raise funds for children's literacy ministry in a small village -- believers making a weekly commitment to visit folks in a local nursing home. Touches of love in Jesus' name.

In my prayer time I've sensed the Lord saying New Zealand has a special place in something God is up to around the world.  My admonition is to persevere in doing good and to focus on discipling people to learning how to hear the voice of the Lord and to minister God's truth deeply and personally to one another.  The picture I have is of the Lord's sheep in pastures; they are wandering away from the rod and staff of their Shepherd and find themselves easy picking for deception and destruction.   I sense this is a word for the church everywhere.

The Lord is seeking to prepare us for something "big" coming. His people must be listening and living close to Jesus Christ for guidance, safety, and empowerment.  The need to overcome evil and to be a safe place of refreshment for world-wearied people will be essential for the church in our life time.

Consider Isaiah 32:2. We must focus on becoming a people who refresh others. "Each man will be like a shelter from the wind and a refuge from the storm, like streams of water in the desert and the shadow of a great rock in a thirsty land."