OUT OF A SUITCASE INTO ALL THE WORLD

Part 2 – Reflections and Applications

Psalm 40:5
“Many, O Lord my God, are Your wonderful works which You have done, and Your thoughts which are toward us; they cannot be recounted in order to You; if I would declare and speak of them, they are more than can be numbered.”

Out of a suitcase and into all the world – Part 2

Language is one of the great barriers to the spread of the gospel. Now God has allowed us to have this remarkable gift of AI. Yes, I believe it can be seen as God’s gift. Through it, sermons in English can now be translated into many languages.

This story is not my story, and I do not write it to glorify myself. It is all for the glory of God—how He takes a broken vessel, restores it, and then uses it to reach thousands of people around the world.

What started as a few tapes in a suitcase has now spread around the world. It is my greatest privilege to be a son of the King. Even more than that, I am His servant, and He is the One who does all these amazing things.

I have no formal Bible college experience. The Lord gives me His words; it is the Holy Spirit who opens the Word of God to me. I have been privileged to sit under several anointed pastors, such as David Green, Richard Scholes, and Mark Johnstone.

Many people reading this may think they are too small or insignificant to be used by God.

I am small and insignificant—but God used me, and He can use you as well.

It is not because I am anything. But my God is everything.

Please do not sit on your hands. Get involved in God’s work. Let Him use you. Seek Him and ask, “Lord, what do You want me to do?”

This may cost you. When I had my own tape library, I bought the tapes and people borrowed them. Service for God will cost you—it may cost money, time, or even your reputation.

The Word of God is precious. To the believer, it is like a gold nugget—more precious than gold and sweeter than honey. Amen.

The Word of God is the greatest agent of change in the world. It is a sharp sword that transforms the heart.

Hebrews 4:12
“For the word of God is living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the dividing of soul and spirit, and of joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.”

To my Chinese friends: you now have the opportunity to listen to English sermons translated by AI into your own language. My prayer is that these resources will be used to glorify our beautiful and wonderful Redeemer and Lord.

Acts 2:7–12
“And they were all amazed and marveled, saying to one another, Behold, are not all these which speak Galileans?
And how hear we every man in our own tongue, wherein we were born?
Parthians, and Medes, and Elamites, and the dwellers in Mesopotamia, and in Judea, and Cappadocia, in Pontus, and Asia,
Phrygia, and Pamphylia, in Egypt, and in the parts of Libya about Cyrene, and strangers of Rome, Jews and proselytes,
Cretes and Arabians, we do hear them speak in our tongues the wonderful works of God.
And they were all amazed, and were in doubt, saying one to another, What does this mean?”

On the day of Pentecost, the people said they could hear the wonderful works of God in their own language. It is my passion in “Reach and Teach Devotions” to share in both English and Chinese, so that the gospel can be heard by as many people as possible.

MY MOTTO IS: THE WHOLE GOSPEL FOR THE WHOLE WORLD
AND
THE WHOLE GOSPEL FOR EVERYONE IN CHINA

The WORD goes out.
The WORK goes on.
The WITNESS goes forth.

Onward and upward, my friends.

Be inspired.

God bless you, my beloved friends, for allowing me to share my heart.

Your friend,
Keith

In the story of SermonAudio, the founder Steven Lee was inspired by seeing tapes of sermons lying in a cupboard. I share the same passion. I started my tape library partly because I saw unused tapes in a cupboard.

OUT OF A SUITCASE AND INTO ALL THE WORLD – Part 1

The Story of Reach and Teach Devotions

Romans 10:17
“So then faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.”

Romans 1:16
“For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to everyone that believes; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek.”

Zechariah 4:10
“For who has despised the day of small things? For they shall rejoice and shall see the plummet in the hand of Zerubbabel with those seven; they are the eyes of the Lord, which run to and fro through the whole earth.”

Habakkuk 2:14
“For the earth shall be filled with the knowledge of the glory of the Lord, as the waters cover the sea.”

So why do I share what I do?

The Lord has brought me a long way.

When God saved me, it was just before my 16th birthday. To be honest, I was a hopeless case—the laughingstock of my school, someone who stammered and struggled to speak clearly through life.

I was bullied incessantly at school. Did I deserve it? I certainly asked for some of it, as I tried too hard to impress everyone.

So I was converted to Christ, but I wondered: how could God ever use this poor, stammering, tongue-twisted young man?

I always wanted to be at the front. I saw people reading the Bible in church and, even more daunting, preaching.

Some of my friends were already preaching, and I thought, “Why not me?” Keith would shout that out often. Keith has since preached—but that is not his main gift.

As I grew, I started attending the Keswick Convention, about 60 miles from my home in Morecambe, UK. There I developed a deep love for preaching. I was greatly impacted by a sermon from Eric Alexander on 1 Peter 1 about biblical holiness.

The meetings at Keswick were recorded on cassette tapes and were relatively cheap, so I bought many of them and listened to them on my car stereo on the way to work… this really dates me—haha.

A good friend suggested I start a tape library for the local Christian young people’s group, which then grew into a church tape library. I began by storing them in a small tartan suitcase—much to my mother’s disapproval. Later this was replaced by a large brown box that barely fit into my little Mini.

People were blessed—I don’t know how many—but praise God, they were.

Then came my wilderness years from 1986 to 2001. I still had a few tapes at home, but I stopped listening to sermons altogether.

In that sense, I had lost my faith, my ministry—everything seemed gone.

I remember at Keswick on a Friday morning we had a meeting for those committing to the mission field. I went forward many times, thinking the Lord had forgotten it. But He had not.

When I returned to the Lord in 2001, within a few months He helped me to start writing. Remember, this is someone who still longed to preach.

After a rather dry house group meeting on Esther chapters 8–9, I decided to write my first devotional. It was not very good, but people read it, and some were blessed.

So I continued. However, I was later drawn away again, wasting three years in the USA before returning to the UK.

After that, I began writing again. I still remember walking near my home when the Lord impressed on me that I would have a worldwide ministry.

Fast forward to 2011: I now had my own website, and I was receiving visits from all over the world—including some from Nanjing, China (we all know how that ended up).

By this time, I had discovered SermonAudio on the internet and was beginning to listen to many sermons.

When I came to China, that platform became my lifeline, as I was no longer able to attend weekly church sermons—except through my wife translating them for me.

Now I have a small ministry and the privilege of sharing my devotions and writing this book.

Both SermonAudio and JohnKnoxInstitute.org have become precious treasures to me. They have inspired me to dig deeper into Holy Scripture.

I am deeply thankful to some very kind Chinese believers who have translated for me completely free of charge—you know who you are.

Thank you for listening to my story.

Circumcision Without Hands

Colossians 2:11
In whom also ye are circumcised with the circumcision made without hands, in putting off the body of the sins of the flesh by the circumcision of Christ:

Recently I had a circumcision procedure done. The foreskin was removed. I did not have it done for religious reasons, but because I had an infection that was causing the skin to stick together.

Circumcision in the Bible was instituted as a sign to identify the people of God. The Jewish people place great importance on this practice; every male child is circumcised before the age of one year. Even Jesus was circumcised.

Romans 2:25–29; 3:1–4; 4:9–12

These passages outline what circumcision is. It is part of the Mosaic Law and is not necessary for salvation.

It cannot and does not save a person. It is like going to church or giving to charity—although these things are good in themselves, they do not bring salvation.

Scriptural passages that support this include:

1 Corinthians 7:19
Circumcision is nothing, and uncircumcision is nothing, but keeping the commandments of God.

Galatians 5:6
For in Jesus Christ neither circumcision nor uncircumcision avails anything, but faith which works through love.

Galatians 6:15
For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision nor uncircumcision avails anything, but a new creation.

Philippians 3:3
For we are the circumcision, who worship God in the Spirit, rejoice in Christ Jesus, and have no confidence in the flesh.

My circumcision does not change anything in my relationship with God.

Devotional Thought

Colossians 2:11
In whom also ye are circumcised with the circumcision made without hands, in putting off the body of the sins of the flesh by the circumcision of Christ:

It is good to have had the physical procedure done, although while the surgeon was cutting the skin, my reaction was evidence that it was quite painful.

As a Christian, I have also received the circumcision made without hands when I came to faith many years ago.

I was given a new heart and a new nature:

Ezekiel 36:25–27
25 Then will I sprinkle clean water upon you, and ye shall be clean: from all your filthiness and from all your idols will I cleanse you.
26 A new heart also will I give you, and a new spirit will I put within you: and I will take away the stony heart out of your flesh, and I will give you a heart of flesh.
27 And I will put My Spirit within you, and cause you to walk in My statutes, and ye shall keep My judgments, and do them.

I was also sealed with the Holy Spirit. This is a legal seal of ownership and assurance. When a document is sealed, it is confirmed and binding—so it is with the sealing of God’s Spirit.

We belong to Christ, and He belongs to us, never to be separated.

Romans 8:31–39
2 Corinthians 1:22
Who has also sealed us and given the earnest of the Spirit in our hearts.
Ephesians 1:13
In whom ye also trusted, after that ye heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation; in whom also after that ye believed, ye were sealed with that Holy Spirit of promise.

My Question to You:

Have you received a new heart?
Have you experienced the circumcision made without hands?
Have you been sealed with the Holy Spirit of promise?

To the Christian, these truths are truly amazing. They should cause us to rejoice.

Christian, rejoice in these things.

OBTAINED MERCY AND ABUNDANT GRACE

Have you enjoyed this book?

Writing it has been a labour of love for me, but the story is not finished yet.

As I write these words, I am in my 67th year and, Lord willing, I have many more years ahead of me.

Every day, thousands upon thousands of people die and step into eternity, whether they believe in it or not.

I remember Harry in the film When Harry Met Sally, who read the last page of a book first so he would know how it ended, just in case he died before finishing it.

I hope you have read this story from beginning to end.

Every story has a beginning and an ending. My story is not finished yet, although one day it will be.

Yet when my story on earth ends, another story will begin. I know, like Job, that my Redeemer lives.

Job 19:25

“For I know that my redeemer liveth, and that he shall stand at the latter day upon the earth.”

The beloved Apostle Paul, writing to his protégé Timothy, spoke words that describe both me and many of the experiences recorded in this book:

1 Timothy 1:13–16

13 Who was before a blasphemer, and a persecutor, and injurious: but I obtained mercy, because I did it ignorantly in unbelief.

14 And the grace of our Lord was exceeding abundant with faith and love which is in Christ Jesus.

15 This is a faithful saying, and worthy of all acceptation, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners; of whom I am chief.

16 Howbeit for this cause I obtained mercy, that in me first Jesus Christ might show forth all longsuffering, for a pattern to them which should hereafter believe on him to life everlasting.

DEVOTIONAL THOUGHT

The words obtained mercy and abundant grace perfectly describe what has happened to me.

I obtained mercy. I did not earn God’s mercy through good works or religious effort. In fact, there was nothing I could do that would ever deserve it.

God’s grace was abundantly and lavishly given to me. I cannot give you one reason why He chose to show such kindness to me, except that it was His will to do so.

Sometimes we receive a gift and think, “Surely there has been a mistake.” But there was no mistake here.

The grace and mercy of God are the two most wonderful realities in my life. They are far beyond my full comprehension.

A true believer never loses their sense of wonder at these things. As the hymn writer expressed it, we are often “lost in wonder, love, and praise.”

The path to salvation leads through the Cross. There is no other way.

Jesus said in John 14:6:

“I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.”

The path passes by the empty tomb, where death was defeated, and continues along the road travelled by Christian, Faithful, and Hopeful in Pilgrim’s Progress as they journeyed toward the Celestial City.

Like many believers before me, I have been travelling that highway for many years. I have fallen into the Slough of Despond more than once. I have spent time in By-path Meadow and even found myself in Doubting Castle. Yet by God’s grace I remain on the road, looking forward to that heavenly city beyond anything we can imagine.

The hymn Amazing Grace has been precious to me and to millions of other believers throughout the years. Its message reflects my life, my walk with the Lord, and my hope of glory.

The opening words say:

“Amazing grace! How sweet the sound, that saved a wretch like me.”

May those words become your testimony as well.

May you obtain mercy and experience the abundant grace of God.

The Lord has been faithful to me throughout every stage of life. He has carried me through dangers, trials, failures, and disappointments. He has forgiven me, restored me, and given me hope for eternity.

One day this earthly journey will end, but His grace will safely bring me home.

May God richly bless you as you seek Him.

KK

REGRETS

Philippians 3:13–14

13 Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before,

14 I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.

Frank Sinatra once sang:

“Regrets, I’ve had a few, but then again, too few to mention.”

It is perhaps significant that these words come from the song My Way.

I do have some regrets, and I often ask myself why. When I look back, I realise that most of my regrets stem from times when I strayed from my Lord in one way or another.

Some of those regrets include:

• After my first two years at college, I did not complete my degree.
• I bought a static caravan and ended up losing a great deal of money on it.
• I went to America and never saw my mother again.

All of these things have been painful for me. They are scars that have healed over time, but healing has required patience, prayer, and repentance.

Many people develop deep regrets as they grow older. The words “What if?” are words many of us have spoken at one time or another.

The truth is that we all have regrets. We have all taken wrong turns and made choices that have hurt us or others.

DEVOTIONAL THOUGHT

As you look back on your life, you will probably find some regrets, and those memories may still hurt.

But as a Christian, healing is available. True and meaningful healing can come through Christ. While the memories may remain, God can remove the burden and pain that they carry.

The great hope of the Christian is this: not only does Jesus forgive and cleanse our past, but He also gives us hope for the future.

We can press forward toward the prize of knowing Christ in this life, but that is not the end of the story.

We can experience a full and abundant life here on earth, but even more importantly, we have the promise of eternal life. The Christian can look back and see mistakes, failures, and missed opportunities, but they can also see the gracious hand of God guiding and sustaining them.

The Christian understands that life on earth is temporary and will one day come to an end. Yet there is something beyond this life.

There is eternity.

There is hope for everyone who has placed their trust in the finished work of Christ.

As for me, I have no regrets about trusting Christ. It is the best decision I have ever made.

What about you?

Speech Therapy

Exodus 4:10–12 (KJV)

“And Moses said unto the Lord, O my Lord, I am not eloquent, neither heretofore, nor since thou hast spoken unto thy servant: but I am slow of speech, and of a slow tongue.
And the Lord said unto him, Who hath made man’s mouth? or who maketh the dumb, or deaf, or the seeing, or the blind? have not I the Lord?
Now therefore go, and I will be with thy mouth, and teach thee what thou shalt say.”

I was in and out of speech therapy from the age of six to sixteen. It affected my education greatly, leading to me being placed in the lowest stream at school and losing two terms in Year 4 of secondary school. I also failed my English exam at college because the oral section was too difficult for me.

So how have I reached the point where I am now able to teach and speak normally?

It is all because of God’s grace and constant help. For years, I was unable to communicate effectively and missed out on many jobs because I could not express myself properly in interviews.

I felt different and difficult — like a walking disaster zone, of no use to anyone. I blamed myself, my parents, and everyone around me for the bullying. Yes, sometimes I irritated people, and sometimes I still do.

How do you deal with all the hurt?

I came to Christ just before my sixteenth birthday, completely and totally insecure. But now, at sixty-six years old, I am completely secure, all because of the Lord.

He has forgiven my past and taught me that, since I have been forgiven much, I must truly forgive from the heart those who have hurt me.

My favourite passage in the whole Bible is Ephesians 1:3–14. In these verses is all the security you need. You have been redeemed, sealed, adopted, and loved in every possible way.

Another passage that has been a great help to me is Psalm 139. To know that God loved me even when I was in my mother’s womb brings me great comfort.

God has seen everything I have been through, and He completely understands our deep hurt and all the tears we have shed. He keeps them in a special bottle.

Psalm 56:8 (KJV)

“Thou tellest my wanderings: put thou my tears into thy bottle: are they not in thy book?”

Whether people reject or accept me, I know that my Lord says, “Come unto me.” I do not have to strive for His acceptance.

Matthew 11:28–30 (KJV)

“Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.
Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls.
For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.”

He calls me His son — that is a privilege beyond words.

Romans 8:14–18 (KJV)

“For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God.
For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father.
The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God:
And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with him, that we may be also glorified together.
For I reckon that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us.”

Devotional Thought

Lastly, I am able to pour out my heart to Him, because He completely understands.

Psalm 62:8 (KJV)

“Trust in him at all times; ye people, pour out your heart before him: God is a refuge for us. Selah.”

You may have gone through trauma in your childhood — whether bullying, sexual abuse, rape, or a physical ailment like mine — but there is healing and refuge in the power of the cross. Come to Jesus and let Him cleanse your past.

There are still marks, flashbacks, and memories, but the pain has gone. Jesus has set me free.

Believe it or not, I am now an English teacher, a writer, and secure in Christ.

I am only these things because I came to the cross, and I continually come to be washed by the precious Word of God, which tells me that I am free from my past and secure not only for today, but for eternity.

Praise His name.

May this help someone.

God bless you.

KK

CHAPTER 31

MIND YOUR LANGUAGE

Genesis 11:1–9

“And the whole earth was of one language, and of one speech.” — Genesis 11:1

After the worldwide flood — and yes, it did actually happen — you would have thought mankind had learned its lesson. Yet humanity continued in rebellion against God, so He taught them another lesson by confusing the languages of the world.

Language is a fascinating thing. The language spoken in my adopted country of China is still largely a complete mystery to me, just as English is to millions of Chinese people.

When Helen and I first started dating online, we quickly ran into this language barrier. Helen speaks English very well, as does my daughter Sherry, and my son Peter is learning quickly too.

Let me share a few of the funny things Helen once said to me:

• “Go and change your skirt” (shirt)
• “You need to shave off your mosquito” (moustache)
• “I don’t understand his accident” (accent)

These still make us laugh today.

My pastor kindly bought me a translator, and now I also have a translation app on my phone, so Helen and I can communicate back and forth at the dinner table.

I can manage basic conversations in shops and supermarkets, but detailed discussions are still difficult without these technological tools.

Perhaps Helen’s funniest slip of the tongue came during my first visit to Nanjing. She said, “Look at all the locusts on Xuanwu Lake!” She meant the beautiful lotus plants growing on the water!

My attempts at speaking Chinese still create great amusement whenever I open my mouth — as do the attempts of certain Chinese people speaking English, who shall remain nameless.

Devotional Thought

AI and translation apps have made it possible for people from different countries and languages to communicate in ways never before imagined.

The ability to speak another language is a special gift. I am reminded of one of my spiritual heroes, William Tyndale, the first man to translate the Bible into English directly from the original Hebrew and Greek texts. He spoke seven languages. What an inspiration he is to me.

In Acts chapter 2, the people in Jerusalem heard the Gospel being spoken in their own languages:

“Now when this was noised abroad, the multitude came together, and were confounded, because that every man heard them speak in his own language.” — Acts 2:6

Today, through modern technology, the Gospel is still going forth across the world.

The Gospel is being preached, and millions are hearing the good news of salvation. More people than ever before now have access to the message of Christ.

Then in Revelation 7, we are given this glorious picture:

“After this I beheld, and, lo, a great multitude, which no man could number, of all nations, and kindreds, and people, and tongues, stood before the throne, and before the Lamb, clothed with white robes, and palms in their hands;

And cried with a loud voice, saying, Salvation to our God which sitteth upon the throne, and unto the Lamb.” — Revelation 7:9–10

Every nation, people group, language, and dialect will be represented there before the throne of God.

Let Me Finish With Two Questions

To My Fellow Believers

What are you doing to reach people with the Gospel?

To Those Who Have Not Yet Trusted Christ

Will you be among those spoken of in Revelation 7:9–10?

The time to trust Christ is now.

Not tomorrow.
Not next week.

You do not even know if you will have those days.

Do not waste another second.

TRUST CHRIST TODAY

Joshua 14:11–12

11 As yet I am as strong this day as I was in the day that Moses sent me: as my strength was then, even so is my strength now, for war, both to go out, and to come in.
12 Now therefore give me this mountain, whereof the Lord spake in that day; for thou heardest in that day how the Anakims were there, and that the cities were great and fenced: if so be the Lord will be with me, then I shall be able to drive them out, as the Lord said.

It’s Not Over Yet!

Caleb is my favourite Old Testament Bible character. He has the attitude I want to have as I enter my golden years.

You have come this far in the book, but this is not the end. I am 67, and, God willing, I may still have many years ahead of me — perhaps even grandchildren to guide along the path. One never knows what God has in store.

I have a bucket list of things I would like to do and see, but all these plans rest with the Lord. Above all, I want to serve Him and one day hear His words: “Well done, thou good and faithful servant.”

I want to be like Caleb, always striving to go higher, further, and deeper. I also want to be like Barnabas, encouraging others to go higher, further, and deeper with God.

I am reminded of a 400-metre race. Some runners burst ahead for the first 300 metres but fade as they approach the finish line. Often, it is those who were behind who surge forward to win. It is not how you start, but how you finish. I pray that I finish well.

So onward and upward — this is not the final chapter. There are many more yet to be written.

Devotional Thought

We all fear death. It is like the elephant in the room that no one wants to talk about, yet it is a daily reality for thousands around the world.

People fear it and prepare for it as best they can, but nothing we do can truly prepare us for it.

Preparation must come through Someone who has defeated death — and that One is Jesus Christ.

Because of what Christ did for me on the cross and through His resurrection, I can say, like the Apostle Paul:

1 Corinthians 15:55–57

O death, where is thy sting? O grave, where is thy victory?
The sting of death is sin; and the strength of sin is the law.
But thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.

2 Timothy 4:6–8

For I am now ready to be offered, and the time of my departure is at hand.
I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith:
Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day — and not to me only, but unto all them also that love His appearing.

One day I will stand before Him. What will I say in the light of the blinding majesty of God’s presence? I will plead the blood of Christ.

In Exodus 12, the Israelites were passed over because of the blood on the doorposts. When the Lord sees the blood, He will pass over you.

The human heart is spiritually dark, but it can be made clean through faith in the finished work of Christ.

Over two and a half thousand years ago, while God’s people were at their lowest point, He gave this promise:

Ezekiel 36:25–27

Then will I sprinkle clean water upon you, and ye shall be clean: from all your filthiness, and from all your idols, will I cleanse you.
A new heart also will I give you, and a new spirit will I put within you: and I will take away the stony heart out of your flesh, and I will give you an heart of flesh.
And I will put my spirit within you, and cause you to walk in my statutes, and ye shall keep my judgments, and do them.

Everyone who comes to God in repentance and faith receives a new heart, a new nature, and will spend eternity with God. Those who refuse will face the consequences. Hell is a real place, where there is no mercy, no grace, and no love.

As I close for now, I plead with you: if you have not trusted Christ, do it today. One day it will be too late.

MOTORBIKES, COCONUTS AND CABLE CARS – Part 2

We arrived in Nha Trang late on Saturday night. It was a 45-minute journey from the airport to the hotel. We were tired but glad to finally sleep in a comfortable bed — well, anything would have been an improvement after the night before!

A Room with a View

The following morning, we had to change hotels. After a short walk, we arrived at our new accommodation — and wow, the view was worth it. We had an incredible panorama over the entire bay.

We simply put our feet up and enjoyed the view. I am used to seaside views, having lived in Morecambe, but this completely outdid anything I have seen there. (If you have time, just search “Nha Trang bay view” — it really is that good.)

We went out onto the front, and I took my shoes and socks off, rolling up my trousers to go for a paddle. The water was warm and smooth over my feet, and the sand shifted beneath me so easily that I nearly lost my balance a few times. Thankfully, I stayed upright.

My hometown of Morecambe has a six-mile promenade, but it cannot compare to this. The scenery here is on another level entirely.

There are also no coconut trees in Morecambe, and it usually rains — so this was a welcome change. We took many photos and then enjoyed fresh coconut juice, served straight from a real coconut and drunk through a straw. Amazing.

Street Life and Sunset Rides

One of the great things about Vietnam is the street vendors. You can find giant lobsters and all kinds of delicious food being cooked and sold right on the street.

On Sunday evening, after supper of noodles, fried eggs, and smoothies, we decided to take what can only be described as a motorised carriage for two, with the driver seated behind us. It was a thrilling ride through the streets, and we thoroughly enjoyed it.

Snorkelling and Coconut Trees

On Monday, Helen wanted to go snorkelling. She booked a trip as her birthday treat (her birthday was the following Thursday), and she had a wonderful day.

Now, I am not really a “water person,” so I took the opportunity to walk the entire length of the promenade instead. I strolled beneath huge coconut trees, eventually sitting on some steps watching the waves crash against the sea wall. For a few minutes, I was taken right back to my childhood.

I also saw many kite surfers — it looks like great fun, but perhaps only for the truly adventurous!

I have a feeling a certain former Skerton School “Tarzan” will be trying it one day soon.

Cable Cars and Vinpearl Island

Just off the coast lies Vinpearl Island, which has many attractions. The only way to reach it is by one of the most spectacular cable car rides I have ever experienced. I have been on cable cars over mountains before, but never one stretched across the sea.

To say this was one of the best experiences of my life would be an understatement. The island itself was equally impressive. We boarded a small train that trundled through the clean, polished streets while we admired the crystal-clear water and the beauty of God’s creation.

We even had ice cream made right in front of us — fresh fruit crushed and blended on the spot. Another magical moment.

Helen’s Birthday Week

Sadly, this was our last full day in Nha Trang. As it was Helen’s birthday week, I took her to a Vietnamese restaurant. As expected, she had beef noodles and another dish, while Keith did what Keith does best… fish and chips — Vietnamese style (with a smoothie).

We returned to the beach one final time. The night air was cool. I was asked by two Chinese tourists to take their photo, and later by four burly Russians. They were very grateful. There are many Russians in Vietnam — some on holiday, and others, depending on your perspective, avoiding the war.

Sleeper Bus and a Run for the Plane

The next morning, we had a six-hour journey back to Ho Chi Minh City on a coach. Normally, you cannot sleep on a bus — but this was a sleeper coach, and it was very comfortable. We both managed to get some rest.

Our flight from Ho Chi Minh was in the early hours. We thought we had enough time to make our connection in Kunming, but we were delayed leaving Vietnam. As a result, we had to run through Kunming Airport like Usain Bolt.

It did not help that, upon reaching Chinese customs, we had to complete an online form requiring many details. Helen was slightly ahead of me, but I caught up — completely exhausted by the end.

Our departure gate, of course, was the last one at the far end of the terminal. As always happens when you are in a hurry, we heard our names being called over the intercom. We were, quite literally, running on empty as we boarded the plane.

Devotional Thought

As we near the end of this book, I am reminded of heaven.

We live in a beautiful world. I have been to Switzerland, Vietnam, Indonesia, the USA, Canada, and many other places, but none of them compare to heaven.

John, in Revelation chapters 21–22, describes its glory. It is beyond imagination — beyond words. The greatest superlatives in every language cannot fully describe it.

There is only one entry into heaven: faith and trust in the finished work of Christ. God gave His Son so that we might have eternal life.

The offer is for everyone. Yet it still surprises me that many try to reach heaven through their own efforts.

It is like trying to fly under your own power to Vinpearl Island. Why would you do that when there is a cable car provided?

Some people do not believe there is a God. They believe we are an accident — the result of random mutation or cosmic chance.

But if that were true, then we would have no real value. Yet we are uniquely created by God and carry great worth.

A leading physicist once told Ray Comfort that design is merely an illusion.

Let me ask a few simple questions:

When you read a book, does it have an author?
When you eat a meal, does it have a cook?
When you see a painting, does it have a painter?
When you use an app on your phone, was it intelligently designed or did it simply appear?

You are not an accident. The invitation of heaven is open to you.

John 3

“Jesus answered and said unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.” (v.3)

“Whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have eternal life.” (v.15)

“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” (v.16)

“He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life: and he that believeth not the Son shall not see life; but the wrath of God abideth on him.” (v.36)

MOTORBIKES, COCONUTS AND CABLE CARS – Part 1

In the previous chapters, we travelled through the UK and Europe during 2024, but due to a wedding, we did not travel in 2025.

As Chinese New Year approached, as it does for many in China, we planned our next holiday destination: Vietnam.

Of course, when I was growing up, all I ever heard about Vietnam related to the war. But we had also heard that it was a very beautiful country, so we decided to go. Helen needed a visa, but Keith did not.

So we set off one Wednesday night, ready to catch our flight to Shanghai and then on to Saigon, also known as Ho Chi Minh City. We arrived in the early hours, and Helen exchanged 100 RMB into 350,000 Vietnamese Dong. A very good exchange rate — I wish I could get as much when I change pounds!

We finally found a taxi and headed to our first hotel. We collapsed onto our beds and tried to get a few hours of sleep.

Ho Chi Minh City – First Impressions

The next morning, we transferred to a hotel in the city centre. The first thing you notice in Ho Chi Minh City is the sheer number of motorbikes. At one major junction, we were surrounded by a moving wall of them, weaving and flowing like a river. Crossing roads becomes a zigzag adventure through constant traffic.

Our hotel was down a side street lined with flowers on both sides. Our room was on the first floor, and the reception offered delicious snacks, which we both enjoyed.

We went out into the city and found a Pho restaurant. It was very crowded, but we managed to find a table. We both had noodles — Helen had beef noodles, and in fact, that is all she ate for most of the trip.

As we were finishing our meal, I felt something wet running down my back. One of the waitresses had accidentally spilled leftover soup on me. It wasn’t hot, just uncomfortable. They were very apologetic, and in the end, our meal was free.

Churches and Street Life

Helen had located an evangelical church, so we went to see if it was open. We knocked, and the caretaker welcomed us in. We were able to see the sanctuary. It was encouraging and special to see an active church in a communist country.

Later, we had supper at a small café near the hotel and ended up sharing a table with an American and some Australians. People from all over the world are drawn to Vietnam.

We sat again on the street outside our hotel drinking mango smoothies. We also met a man from Italy. Our interesting conversation was interrupted several times by extremely loud firecrackers. Cars and motorbikes continued flowing through the streets, completely undisturbed.

Money, Markets, and Mistakes

The next day was Friday. After breakfast and another smoothie, we went to exchange more money at a tourist shop across the street. When they offered a poor rate of 340,000 Dong, we declined. The man was not pleased and rather abruptly showed us the door with a few choice words.

Journey to Vung Tau

Vung Tau is a seaside destination about three hours away, so we took a mini bus from the station. The journey was slow, travelling along one of the longest main roads I have ever seen, filled with endless traffic lights.

Helen is usually budget-conscious, but she really outdid herself this time. We were only staying one night — and thankfully it was only one night — in a shared six-bed dorm in a surfers’ hostel.

If you have ever stayed in a youth hostel (or, as some might joke, “visited one unexpectedly”), you’ll know they vary greatly. This one took “budget accommodation” to another level entirely.

Cheap and cheerful would be the best description. However, the people running it were amazing — a mix of Russians, Ukrainians, and Germans. There is a lesson in unity there somewhere.

Vung Tau – Crowds, Motorbikes, and a Giant Statue

Vung Tau has a large statue of Jesus high above the city. We did not have time to climb the 800 steps to reach it, as the city was absolutely packed. Crossing the road took careful timing, patience, and a lot of prayer.

We rented a motorbike for an hour and explored the area. You may think there are many motorbikes in China, but Vietnam takes it to another level entirely.

The beach was incredible, especially at night. Vung Tau is beautiful, but it is best avoided during peak holiday periods.

We settled in for the night, though it was not particularly comfortable. People were constantly coming and going, making for a disturbed sleep. At around 3 a.m., two girls began giggling loudly. Helen’s voice eventually cut through the noise: “Please be quiet.”

Early Morning Encounters

The next morning, I found Helen in the lobby sharing the gospel as usual. She was speaking with a Chinese man and a German man named Stephen, who recommended a good place for breakfast.

To get there, Keith had to ride pillion on a motorbike. It was only a short ride, but speeding through backstreets and main roads was unforgettable — and the breakfast was excellent too.

Back to Ho Chi Minh City

We soon boarded our mini bus back to Ho Chi Minh City, as we planned to fly to Nha Trang on Saturday night. After more noodles, baguettes, and smoothies, we arrived at the airport around 7 p.m.

We landed in Nha Trang at midnight. Everything was dark, but thankfully our hotel was decent — although, to be honest, almost anything would have been an improvement after the hostel.

But more on Nha Trang in the next exciting instalment.

Devotional Thought

Travelling through Vietnam opens your eyes. You may read or hear news about a country, but seeing life on the ground is completely different. It becomes a real, lived experience.

During our visit, it was a national holiday and Vung Tau was filled with thousands of people.

High above the city stands a statue of Jesus with His arms outstretched. Below Him, the city is busy — a place of activity, entertainment, and distraction. Very few take the time to climb the 800 steps to reach Him.

Jesus is often treated the same way today. He is acknowledged in the background, but for many, He is considered irrelevant — yet He is the Saviour of the world.

He calls people to come to Him, but it requires a decision, time, and willingness to respond.

He is Lord over all creation. He made all things, yet many of His creation do not acknowledge Him.

Like the statue overlooking Vung Tau, He stands with His arms outstretched — waiting to receive all who will come to Him.

His invitation remains:

Matthew 11:28–30

“Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.
Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls.
For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.”

Back in the UK

In 2024, we made a three-month trip to the UK. We were blessed to stay with my cousin Elaine and her children near Cambridge. We were able to get around and see so much, and we thank Elaine for her love, hospitality, and care during that time.

It was wonderful to visit Morecambe again, to see my hometown, meet up with my dear old friend Andrew, and return to my old church, Heysham Free Methodist. A big thank you to Pastor Mark, his wife, and Sandra for helping us during that time.

We also stayed with an old friend from Lancaster Baptist Church and his wife just outside Lancaster. They both own Porsche cars, one of which is a sports model.

One day he said, “Fancy a spin in my other car?” Of course, I agreed, not knowing it was a Porsche. When he opened the garage, my eyes nearly popped out of my head. As he sped down the country lanes at breakneck speed, my stomach felt like it hit the floor. When we arrived back, I was shaken — and very stirred.

We had previously stayed in the Ribble Valley and even had a visit from the Altrincham Rambler, who came bearing gifts — ginger nuts, actually.

We visited Clitheroe, Blackpool, and other places. Blackpool is very sad now; it feels like a poor man’s Las Vegas.

After travelling back by train to Cambridge, we were off again. This time, we were invited by Victor Jack, who had led me to the Lord, to his home and church in Bury St Edmunds. Although he is not the pastor, he is still heavily involved in leadership. We shared our testimony and were able to speak about our church in China.

The next day, Victor took us to his golf club for lunch. He still plays golf at 87! We went onto the putting green, and the first putt Keith took went straight into the hole. “Beginner’s luck,” we said — but not really, as he had played before.

After we returned from Bury St Edmunds, Elaine said the children wanted to take another trip. We had two choices: the Norfolk Broads or Cornwall.

“Oh, where in Cornwall?” I asked.

“Padstow,” she replied.

Immediately I said, “Padstow!” because I know someone who lives there. Any guesses? Yes — the Cornish Rambler, David Hobbs, has a second home there. As soon as the trip was booked, I was on the phone saying, “We’re going to Padstow!” Sadly, he was busy with business — or some other lamentable excuse — and couldn’t join us.

So we descended on Cornwall. On Sunday, we found another dead Anglican church, but this one had the added celebrity of presenter Fern Britton from Ready Steady Cook fame. She had to leave early, as she had to cook dinner in twenty minutes!

We travelled around Cornwall. I had spent a wonderful week here with my parents when I was 14, so this was a journey back in time for me. Newquay especially, as we had stayed there for a week.

The Cornish Rambler has walked the South West Coastal Path twice (600 miles long), so Keith wanted to walk a small part of it. I was dropped off near where we were staying and had to walk 10–12 miles into Padstow. This was high summer in the UK, yet we experienced all four seasons in one day — in fact, every half hour!

The path ran right along the coast. Rolling waves crashed against the sharp rocks below, wide bays stretched out with silky sand, and the constant ups and downs of the path (the downs being the most difficult) tested the legs. Finally, after descending a winding path, I reached the beach at Padstow. I took off my shoes and socks and paddled in the water, just as I did later that week at Falmouth.

The following weeks, as we prepared to set off back home, were sad. On the final Tuesday, we quietly left the house at 5am so that Elaine’s children would not know we were leaving.

So our European adventure came to an end. We did more than we ever imagined or expected.

Going back to the UK after nine years was a culture shock — not just for Helen and Sherry, but for me as well. This was a land I no longer recognised, and, to be honest, I did not feel at home there. It had changed, and I felt like a stranger walking into a world I didn’t really know.

Do I still love it? Yes, of course. I am a proud Brit. But it is now a place of memories, not of the present or the future. Sadly, I cannot see myself going back permanently — unless the Lord calls.

Devotional Thought

Have you ever felt like I described in that last paragraph? For the Christian, as we live out our lives on earth, we need to keep an eternal perspective.

Remember the words of the Apostle Paul in Philippians 3:20:

“But our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Saviour from there, the Lord Jesus Christ.”

We should not become overly attached to the country we are from or the colour of our skin, because we are sons and daughters of the King of Kings — citizens of heaven.

We are sometimes told that if we think too much about spiritual and heavenly things, we will be of no earthly use. In reality, it is only when we think on heavenly things that we can be of true use here on earth.

The more we focus on spiritual matters — the things that truly matter — the less we will be distracted by earthly matters, which may be interesting but are not beneficial to our daily spiritual walk.

Yes, we must live in the here and now, but we must also keep sight of the bigger picture.

If you have not yet trusted Christ, remember that there is an eternal perspective to life. Please trust Him today.

JUST ONE CORNETTO SHORT OF AN ICE CREAM

When I was growing up, there was a very famous television commercial in the UK. The punchline was, “Just one Cornetto from Walls Ice Cream!”

So our next stop was Italy — the home of ice cream and, of course, pizza.

We flew into Rome at about eight one evening and took the train into the city. We found our hotel and settled down for the night.

The next day, we took a bus to see the Colosseum and the surrounding Roman ruins. They were very impressive. We were looking at a place where many Christians had been killed for their witness to the Gospel. It was very humbling. We did not go into the amphitheatre, but we could imagine the scenes from those early years of the Church.

One of the things about Italy is the toilets. It’s not that there aren’t any — there are — but you have to pay for the privilege, and in euros too! You either need a very strong bladder or a bucket!

We did all the usual things in Rome. We had pizza and visited the Trevi Fountain, where the crowds were enormous.

Rome is amazing — but too hot for me.

We then travelled to Florence. We had booked a coach, but we were dropped off at the wrong place and faced a half-hour walk in the blazing sun to the bus station. Eventually, we caught the bus to Florence.

Florence is beautiful. The cathedral is incredibly ornate, but the queue went around the block. The city is full of quaint streets and beautiful houses.

On that particular Sunday, the museums in Florence were free to enter. For Sherry, this was wonderful.

We found the museum housing the statue of David by Michelangelo — the Accademia Gallery of Florence. It was quite amazing. Sherry thoroughly enjoyed these places. For me, it was interesting, but once you have seen one naked statue, that is enough.

The Italians love fountains. They had one in Florence where the statue had water coming out of the usual place. They also have churches that are incredibly ornate and beautiful, with stunning artwork.

Climbing up to Piazzale Michelangelo, we saw the most iconic view of the city. We could see the oldest bridge in Florence, the Ponte Vecchio, which we had seen and walked over shortly before.

Florence is a beautiful city — indeed, one of the most beautiful I have ever visited.

We all wanted to see Venice, but since we had no Wellington boots, we leaned toward going to Pisa instead. Get the joke?

So we arrived in Pisa and, the next morning, took a bus to the site. And there it was — still standing. Rumours of it falling down had clearly been exaggerated. It was an iconic sight and a place I could never have imagined visiting.

Our hotel was less than accommodating. They provided no towels, and when we asked for some, they demanded an outrageous fee. This was met with a sarcastic comment from a grumpy Brit — they always complain!

On our last day, we went to the seaside and dipped our feet in the beautiful sea. The next morning, we boarded a plane back to Stansted Airport in the UK.

Devotional Thought

As we travelled through Italy, we saw many churches in the three cities we visited. As I have said, they were beautiful, ornate, and architecturally stunning, filled with frescoes and artwork.

But they lacked one thing — the presence of God.

They felt cold and lifeless.

You can have all the trappings of religion. In the Gospels, the harshest words Jesus spoke were directed at religious people. They had the Law, they had temple worship, but they misused it and abused their position.

In Matthew 23, Jesus strongly rebukes their religious hypocrisy. Jesus does not live in ornate churches; He lives in the heart of every true, redeemed believer.

Do you go to church?
Do you pray?
Do you read your Bible?
Do you help others?

All these things are good — but they are not enough.

In the Bible, we see people who considered themselves good, yet still needed salvation, such as Nicodemus in John 3 and Cornelius in Acts 10.

Good works are not the root of salvation; they are the fruit of salvation. They flow out of a living relationship with Christ.

Jesus called the religious leaders “whitewashed tombs, full of dead men’s bones.” When I visited these churches, I was reminded of those words.

Religious leaders who have long misled people through false teaching will one day be held accountable.

Jesus brings freedom from sin, Satan, and death. He does not bring bondage — He brings freedom to the captives.

Let me finish by asking this:

Are you relying on religious effort to gain salvation?

You cannot earn salvation. No attendance at mass, no penance, and no confession can save you. Salvation comes only through faith in the finished work of Christ.

IT’S NEW YEAR… AGAIN

As I mentioned earlier in this book, I have always loved classical music. I remember playing vinyl records on my parents’ radiogram — that certainly dates me! And if you remember such things, then you are really old.

Every New Year, my mum and I watched the world-famous concert by the Vienna Philharmonic from the Golden Hall in Vienna. And now, that was our next stop on our journey.

Vienna is a beautiful city with many trams, like many Central European cities. So we all got on one and went to the Golden Hall. There was a concert on that night — the Mozart Orchestra was performing in period costume.

Having watched the New Year’s concert year after year, I had always wanted to attend a performance at this venue. And now, I was there.

Although we could only get standing places at the back, that was fine. Helen was actually offered a seat in one of the boxes. Sherry and I stood and listened to the music.

Then came the finale. They played The Blue Danube, followed by the familiar drum roll of the Radetzky March. If you know anything about this piece, you know that your hands will be sore — but very happy — by the end of it.

The next morning, we explored Vienna. We bought a picnic and sat in front of one of the museums.

Never in my wildest dreams did I expect to attend a concert in the Golden Hall.

Another item ticked off my bucket list.

Devotional Thought

I have always loved music, although I cannot sing and have never played an instrument.

Why did God give us voices?

Surely it is to praise Him.

The last verse in the book of Psalms says:

Psalm 150:6
Let everything that hath breath praise the Lord. Praise ye the Lord.

Why should we give Him praise?

Because every breath we take comes from Him.
Every gift we have comes from Him.

How can we live our lives without saying “thank you” to the Giver and Sustainer of life?

People who have an attitude of gratitude are known to have a sunny approach to life. But it is even better to have a thankful heart toward God.

I am thankful for everything — not just the good times, but also the difficult times. It is during those times that I have learned the most.

When you woke up this morning, did you thank God that you were alive?
At the end of each day, do you thank God for every experience, good and bad?

Thank you so much for reading this.

COME TO THE CASTLE
Prague was our next stop on a whistle-stop journey across Europe, and it quickly became one of my favourite cities—alongside Edinburgh, Nanjing, and the wonderfully chaotic Chongqing.
This ancient city is dominated by its magnificent castle, set high above the rooftops. To reach it, you climb what feels like endless steps. With every step, you seem to travel backwards in time by several centuries. The climb up is demanding; the descent, somehow, even more so. For an old timer like me, a few pauses to catch my breath were unavoidable.
I have been fascinated by castles since childhood. Near my school in Lancaster stood the imposing Lancaster Castle, and my love for history began there. In fact, I was the top history student at Skerton—something I occasionally feel obliged to remind people of!
But nothing quite prepares you for the scale of the castle in Prague. Once inside, you realise how vast it is. It is practically a city within a city, with walls so high and strong that it could withstand a siege for months, even years. It was built to be a place of refuge.
We also walked across the 14th-century Charles Bridge and attended a service at an English-speaking international church.
That Sunday, as we wandered through the streets, England were playing in the European football championship. Keith was desperate to know the score, but with no cellphone signal, he searched from place to place. Eventually, he found an Irish pub showing the match. England were losing 1–0 deep into stoppage time. Then came a throw-in, a flicked header, and an extraordinary overhead kick into the net. The room erupted—especially Keith. England went on to win 2–1. Helen and Sherry practically dragged him out before he turned into a football hooligan.
Everyone was celebrating—except the Scottish gentleman standing in front of him, who sat with his head in his hands. The poor man.

Devotional Thought
While standing within those ancient walls, I was reminded of the great hymn “A Mighty Fortress Is Our God” by Martin Luther, often called the battle hymn of the Reformation.
The imagery is powerful: God as a fortress, a refuge, a place of safety in the midst of conflict and danger.
This brings to mind the words of Scripture:

“The Lord is my rock, and my fortress, and my deliverer; my God, my strength, in whom I will trust.” — Psalm 18:2
“God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.” — Psalm 46:1

Just as the castle of Prague was a place of protection for all who fled to it, so God is a refuge for all who turn to Him.
We live in a world where many place their trust in false securities—possessions, status, or beliefs that cannot save. But true safety is found only in the living God.
It is like the ark in Noah’s day. Noah was called a preacher of righteousness, yet people ignored his warnings. When the flood came, the only place of safety was inside the ark.
One day, there will be a final refuge for all who have placed their faith and trust in the Lord Jesus Christ. That refuge is heaven—a place beyond our imagination, prepared for those who belong to Him.
When enemies approached Prague, the cry would go out: “Come to the castle!”
Today, the call is far greater and far more urgent:
Come to Christ—while there is still time.

THE GRAND TOUR — Part 1

Galatians 3:28 (KJV)
“There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus.”

We were planning to travel back to the UK in 2022, but due to COVID restrictions, we were unable to go.

As soon as the restrictions were lifted, we began thinking about and planning our trip back to Europe.

During the Chinese New Year of 2024, we decided to take a trip to Sichuan Province to visit several places. The first of these was Chongqing — the cyberpunk city.

You may think your city is crazy, but not like Chongqing!

Trains go through apartment buildings, petrol stations sit on the 20th floor of skyscrapers, and every night the city comes alive, lit up like a Christmas tree. Especially amazing is Hongyadong, an eleven-storey structure built into the mountainside overlooking the river.

Not far from Chongqing is Chengdu, the panda city and home of hotpot. You are given a large pot of bubbling broth and a selection of raw ingredients to cook in it yourself. Sherry and Helen loved this because of the spicy food, but Keith survived mostly on rice and bread for two days.

While planning the Europe trip, Helen — who loves organising these journeys — worked with Sherry to obtain a Europe-wide visa for one month. With that in hand, we travelled to Europe for nearly three months.

We travelled with several large suitcases, and our pastor kindly drove us to and from Nanjing Airport.

We arrived at Heathrow and collected our cases. It was only halfway to my cousin’s home that Keith asked, “Where’s my case?” Yes — we had left it behind.

We contacted the airline and asked them to deliver it, but they refused. The following Tuesday, while we were all in London, Keith made a detour back to Heathrow. After much discussion, he retrieved the case and met the ladies near the Houses of Parliament.

We visited Tower Bridge and then returned home — relieved to have the missing case.

We had a very interesting day in Cambridge. Sadly, most of the colleges were closed for special events. Keith tried to persuade them that he was a former student (has anyone from Skerton School ever been to Cambridge?), but he was unsuccessful. As far as we know, no one from Skerton has ever studied at Cambridge — only visited to watch the football!

Soon after, we set off for Norway to visit Helen’s cousin in the picturesque town of Årdal near Bergen. To get there, we first flew to Oslo. The airport was far outside the city, so we travelled in by train. As it was high summer, daylight lasted almost around the clock. Oslo was wonderful, and we found a small hotel for travellers.

The next day, we travelled on to Årdal. The bus journey was extraordinary as we climbed high into the mountains and then descended into the valley.

To say I fell in love with the place is an understatement — waterfalls, mountains, and complete peace and quiet.

Situated at the end of Norway’s longest fjord, Sognefjord, there is a lake at the end. Every morning during our stay, I walked to its edge. What a place to pray and meditate.

On Sunday, we attended a church service in the forest and later walked up to two of the highest waterfalls in Norway.

Our wonderful host drove us along mountain roads to crystal-clear lakes where the snow had not yet fully melted. I remember one lake with clear blue water. Keith put his feet into a mountain stream — the water was pure and freezing cold.

One of our visits was to a small circular wooden church dating back to the 11th century. It was tiny but remarkable. Memories like these are priceless.

We also viewed Sognefjord from high above. My father had always wanted to visit Norway but never had the opportunity. I felt very privileged to experience it.

Our hosts treated us royally. One evening, we were served delicious reindeer meat. We were sad to leave Årdal, but it was time to move on.

Next stop: Prague.

See you there.

Devotional Thought

Årdal must be one of my favourite places. Each morning, I walked to the edge of the lake to pray and meditate. Being in a place of complete peace is a true blessing.

Psalm 46:10 (KJV)
“Be still, and know that I am God: I will be exalted among the heathen, I will be exalted in the earth.”

It is so easy to be caught up in the hustle and bustle of daily life that we forget how to be still.

One of the best things we did was attend the small church service in the forest. Only a few people were present, but God was there. Worshipping in the midst of His creation was deeply special.

It took many hours to reach Årdal, but it was truly worth the journey.