The first leg of a crucial trip into Africa brought us to the harsh, desolate dust bowl of Southern Sudan this past Thursday and Friday (1/14 - 1/15/10). As we drove over the border from Kenya, the presence of our spiritual enemy was palpable. Traveling with me was our Kenyan Ministry Partner, Pastor Benjamin Mutoka as well as leaders of Chicago-based Warm Blankets Ministries, Craig Muller, Jim Whitfield and Gary Marsh. Our mission into Sudan was to evaluate church/orphanage construction sites, and for me to check on two older ICM church projects. Naturally, demonic forces were working against us. Our 2 vehicles each broke down delaying our border crossing. We received an armed military escort over the border (this due to recent skirmishes in the area) and encountered corrupt patrol guards who attempted to pillage our money and electronic equipnment under the guise of a security check. But we prayed and God was good, as He always is. Thanks to the grace of His provision, we entered Sudan successfully and while the evil forces did press against us, and we could feel it, sense it, the beautiful faces of the orphans encouraged us to work and pray even harder to accomplish the task God has set before us in this desperate and forboding land. Please pray as I now proceed with our church/orphanage dedication service Sunday 1/17/10 in Kitale, Kenya followed by a flight back to Nairobi and then on to the Democratic Republic of Congo. Pray God continues to use me as His ambassador and servant as this is the desire of my heart. God bless you and thanks for reading!