One of the great things about working in ministry is the privilege of meeting so many people from different backgrounds, cultures, and walks of life. Over time, weekly Bible studies grow into close friendships which is probably the most rewarding aspect of working as a Bible instructor.

Another bonus is that friends like to share the things that are important to them so, besides the weekly studies, we are often invited to join in recreational events like fishing, mountain biking, sailing, etc. Whenever we have a chance, we join our friends in activities like these that are, without exception, enjoyable and rich experiences.

A few weeks ago, after our weekly Bible study, Godofredo told us that he is an aviation mechanic working at the Christchurch Engine Center. He is responsible for the maintenance, repair, and overhaul of jet engines for commercial jets. After we expressed an interest in what he was doing, we were invited to visit him at his work for a personal tour of the factory.

This was an invitation we could not turn down. How often do …
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It is amazing to look at history and see how it often repeats itself.

Amber and I live in beautiful New Zealand. We have been fascinated by the history of this region – particularly its discovery by the Europeans.

New Zealand was first discovered by Abel Tasman (1603 – 1659), a Dutch seafarer, explorer, and merchant. His was the first known European expedition to reach the islands of Van Diemen’s Land (now Tasmania), New Zealand, and to sight the Fiji islands.

Tasman was sent on a mission by the Dutch East India Company to look for gold, a promising area for trade, and useful new shipping routes. Sailing south of Australia he found Tasmania where he planted the Dutch flag. After some exploration he set course East.

The winds were favorable and after about ten days he sighted land on the Northwest coast of South Island, New Zealand. Proceeding North and then East, he stopped to gather water. Here, one of his boats was attacked by the Māori, the original inhabitants of New Zealand. Four of his men and several Māori …
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