First Day!

Today was our first day of classes. It was a very good introduction to what we are going to be involved with for the next 7 weeks.

Our first topic was an introduction to what AIT is all about, namely equipping us to reach other cultures for Christ. Our class is a diverse blend of cultures to start with. We have us Texans, of course, there are several of us, along with Canadians, one of which was born in Hong Kong. Some are Korean, heading to Asia. One from Ohio but now residing in Orlando. Our trainers are equally diverse, having not only come from all over, but also having served in countries all around the world.

Our next topic was titled "God's Heart for the World." This is an interesting study, as Jana and I have had something very similar in our small group Bible Study. This lesson was a walk through the Bible looking at it as one book, one story with an emphasis on a single purpose, that of the Great Commission. This theme is present throughout the entire Bible, not just the end of Matthew and the letters to the early churches. It is truly an amazing study, which gives you a different perspective of the Bible but also of our Lord and what lengths He goes to to have Himself glorified!

The two examples to look at for yourself are stories that you have probably heard: David and Goliath, keying on 1 Samuel 18:45, 46; and Daniel in the Lions' Den, keying on Daniel 6:26, 27. Both stories show two men of faith being saved from certain death by the Lord, but the purpose was not just to save faithful followers, but to glorify His own name "to all the nations."

The rest of the day was assigning us to our churches (we will tell you more about that soon!) and talking more about our schedule. We are very excited to continue our studies tomorrow. On Wednesday, we begin our Bible study group. Jana and I are studying James with Steve Anthony, also our support coach. That will be a very good time to spend in the word!

Until tomorrow (or next time we are able to post)!!!