Renall

How does a man from Cook Islands end up in Germany? Through the Lord's mercy. Renall looks like he should be on a surfboard somewhere but he serves faithfully at Hurlach Castle. He has been here 10 years. If he wanted to go home, he would have to fly 30 hours (without a layover). The airline ticket would be over $2000 for one person. For his family, that means about $12,000. And he is a missionary. He has done this - but not very often.

His wife is German and they have 3 kids - ages 6,4, and 2. In addition to being a worship leader at the base, he coordinates many of the activities on the ground and sees to the needs of the staff.

He gets a glimmer in his eye as he relates that his island used to be cannibals. Finally, a Tahitian missionary came to his island. The warriors lined up with spears and face paint, looking fierce. The missionary could have given up. Instead they say he tied a Bible to his head and swam ashore.

Little did he know God had paved the way. Those cannibals had been given a prophecy that said someone would come to their island with the truth from the west. The Chief of his tribe immediately converted, along with the rest of the village.

Renall said when he gets to heaven he is going to thank that guy. This is what happens when someone follows God and does not compromise on what God is telling him to do. Follow God fully. A nation's future may depend on it.