This last week I had the wonderful opportunity to attend my first Baptist Missionary Association of America (BMAA) National Meeting.  I was thoroughly impressed.  In past years I have attended the SBC National Meeting and the ABA National Meeting, and compared to them this was by far the best.  I think the thing that stuck out to me the most was the unity amongst the churches within the association.  There was absolutely no bickering or fighting.  Itwas all about praising God, and seeing business that would further the Kingdom come to pass.  The first night was a night of praise, and welcoming which made me feel right at home.  Something else that made this meeting special was that my wife was able to attend with me. 

Day two we had the wonderful opportunity to hear Vice-President H.B. London from Focus on the Family speak, and he literally inspired the crowd with laughter and delight. He spoke words of encouragement that led to a filling of the Holy Spirit.  The rest of the day proceeded on with business as usual, but at the same time allowed multiple opportunities for fellowship. We ate at some wonderful restaurants on the Branson Landing, and we even got to watch a beautiful fountain light show. I did however find myself at times wanting to just go back to our comfortable room at the Branson Hilton and just relax. It is amazing how much energy is exerted in just sitting, and listening to multiple speakers. Something else that always makes these trips so special is that I get to be with some of the most God fearing men such as Brandon Cox, Danny Kirk, Grady Higgs, Jamie Jones, and the list could go on to fill a book.

Day 3 was just as exciting.  I provided my wife some Starbucks in bed, and I had an awesome quiet time with the Lord. I also had the opportunity to go and visit some of my family who lived in the Branson area which was a real blessing.   We arrived back at the Conference center just in time to catch some more business, before we headed off to lunch at the Fish House.  I then had the opportunity to go to the Bass Pro Shop which is one of my favorite stores.  Fishing and hunting is like Heaven on earth for me. 

The evening all to0 quickly came to an end with stories from some of our national and foreign missionaries that always seem to touch my heart.  The dedication that these families commit to the mission field is beyond reason.  It can only be described as a God thing.  The evening closed in such sweet praise and prayer as hundreds of Pastors prayed over our missionaries. I know that right now I am where God wants me to be, but it would be an honor and a privilege to one day be amongst those church planters.  I want to close by thanking my wonderful church Bethel that gave me this extraordinary opportunity to experience this event.  To God be the glory through all great things.