Visa update

This morning (4/16) I called the Protestant Federation's office in Paris to see if they had received the fax I sent yesterday. They had, and I was put on hold to speak to a gentleman about it. He was very gracious and kind toward me, even complimented me on my good French! However, he made it clear that an invitation would not be issued automatically. While he assured me that they had good will toward all the Protestant denominations, from the historical denominations to the Pentecostals, Charismatics, and even the Evangelical Baptists, they could not issue an invitation on the part of an organization or church that was not an official member of the Federation. I asked if I could become an individual member. He said no, because it was a federation of churches, not individuals.

I asked him what I could do to solicit an invitation on their part. He said he could not give me any official advice on the part of the Federation. I suggested, and he agreed, that a personal phone call from my father to the president of the Federation would be of help. That is where we have left things for now. I'm hoping to have my dad call the office in the morning. The only problem is that my parents are presently in Germany (where my dad is speaking at a BMM missionary conference) and don't have internet access! I called the hostel where they are staying and left a message with a German girl that I hope will reach them.

This morning I read in Proverbs, "Many seek the ruler's favor, But justice for man comes from the LORD" (29:26, NASB). It reminded me that I need to run first to God in matters such as these. Thanks for praying.