Worms
I should be used to it by now because it’s so common here, but it still deeply grieves me when someone looks right at me and says, “I’m completely, totally atheist. I don’t want anything to do with God. The longer I live the more convinced I am that there is no ‘supreme being,’ and I’m quite satisfied with my life this way.” My guitar teacher just said that to me a few minutes ago when I invited him to our Easter play. Although I did not get to share the Gospel I did get to mention Jesus’ victory over death. Most of the French people are like D. A man told me the other day, “See that worm you just stepped on? My life has no more meaning than his.” They shamelessly reject God and thereby reject all hope. What’s even more tragic is they have no desire to change. Interacting with them causes me to both weep and worship. “Should He devote that sacred Head for such a worm as I?”

Witnesses
Recently I had my first “tête-à-tête” with a Jehovah’s Witness. Rachel called me on the phone hoping to convert me. We decided to get together to discuss the Bible – and believe me, I was really nervous! She probably was too when she found out I was a missionary. Although she was not open to reconsidering her false doctrine, I benefited from the opportunity to brush up on the Bible’s clear teaching of Jesus’ divinity. After this encounter I have thankfully felt less scared about talking to JWs.

Weekends
In January I got to lead two weekends of music teaching: one in Bordeaux and one in Paris. What a blast! The Lord worked out so many details for me, including allowing me to catch a train with nary a second to spare. Although my stress level was very high (as those of you who have done extensive teaching in a second language can relate), relationships were built, musical concepts were learned, and hearts were encouraged. Twelve different churches were represented in the two weekends. Another weekend is in the works for this summer in the south of France, this time with an emphasis on composition.

Warriors
Please excuse my alliteration…it’s probably in my genes from three generations of preachers. Many thanks to the prayer warriors who are upholding me and those I love in this battle for souls. Please continue to pray for Hazel. I am glad to report encouraging developments in the children’s ministry – new kids are attending and we are planning two Easter clubs. Pray that my little neighbor L. will come! Discipleship opportunities abound; A. continues to grow after her baptism, and another girl, S., is hungering and thirsting for righteousness. Many, however, are lukewarm or remain very weak. Over and over I sense my total inadequacy in serving the Lord here and He brings me back to His instructions in 2 Timothy. Please pray that I (and other servants of God) will be faithful to Him to the very end.

For His Name’s sake,
Kristi Colas