Saturday & Sunday

The last couple of days have been diversely interesting.

Late Saturday morning we went to Darryl and Lynette’s to get organized for a bike ride. We had a bit of a Kiwi lunch: roll, butter, “salad” (lettuce, cucumbers, etc.), and some chicken; quite yummy. We loaded some bikes onto the back of the van and headed to Woodhill Forest (check out the galleries). Once there Darryl generously rented bikes for the 4 kids and me. We then set out for an hour of interesting riding.

Darryl is quite an accomplished rider. We were all impressed with some of things he did, e.g., flying through the air off narrow little ramps. It was serious stuff, potentially dangerous. The kids and I weren’t so brave, but we had a wonderful time. I managed to crash into a tree hard enough to bloody my cheek. Cool. Today I am reminded of how bike seats are not made for comfort, and, no, it has not affected my ability to think.

After the bike ride we came home. Darryl fired up his grill and commenced with a Kiwi Barby (we discussed how to spell this; it is short for barbecue.) He grill kebabs, sausages or “bangers,” and steak. We had a feast!

We were joined at dinner by Jean Wheldale and Denise Roberts. Denise was a member of the church for a short time before we left in 1989. She is a wonderful, encouraging Christian woman. I asked her, “What is the best thing that has happened to you in the last 19 years.” She said, “The baptism of my son Peter.” Her son is now a young leader in the Morningside Church of Christ.

Today (Sunday) we made our way to the Morningside church. John Staiger, the minister, and I had corresponded. He asked me to teach the morning class and to preach, which I was honored to do. The church at Morningside is healthy and impressive. God has done a wonderful thing there. This morning there were people from every continent. It truly reflects Auckland and the neighborhood in which it is found. There average a more than 100 people each Sunday, and spirit of unity was wonderful, truly Holy. John is doing a wonderful job.

It was wonderful to see several people from our past. Others that we would have liked to see where out of town. It is peak holiday (vacation) season here, so many people are out and about. I found myself fighting tears during the singing. It was moving and heartfelt, and to hear all the different accents blend together was beautiful. I believe the church there is a good picture of the Kingdom of Heaven; “every tribe, language, nation...” It was so wonderfully moving to commune in that community of Christ this morning.

This afternoon we have been wandering around the bays. The sun came out fully, and it is simply perfect weather: low 80s and light wind. The last few days have been pleasant, but the sun was heavily filtered by the clouds.

We are getting ready to enjoy a nice evening meal.

We all love you and miss you very much. I am looking forward to getting home, but not before enjoying a couple more days in NZ and a 3 day stay in Hawaii. More tomorrow, Lord willing...