Canal Ministries - on the Inland Waterways
Spring Water - Andy & Sue Smith
Narrowboat Spring Water Newsletter July 2022
Spring Water at Water Eaton.
"But in your hearts set Christ apart as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect." Amen. 1 Peter 3:15
Hello dear friends
The above verse is one of our foundation verses, from the time we first moved onto our narrow boat Spring Water. We thank God, who in His mercy and grace has been faithful to us, giving us many opportunities to give the reason for the hope that we have in Jesus to those who ask.
Praise God that He afforded many more opportunities to those from Canal Ministries and Boaters' Christian Fellowship, who gathered in their narrow boats, motor homes and by car at Water Eaton, during the week 12-19 June 2022. This week had been planned and prayed for by members of BCF and Canal Ministries, together with the churches at Water Eaton, who were also involved in the mission. Praise God, He answered our prayers, as many folk heard the gospel; others gave their lives to Jesus and still others were encouraged to deepen their relationship with Him. Alleluia!
During the week, we were able to share the love of God with church groups and individuals on a daily basis. We did this by offering free refreshments to walkers, and those from church organised groups. We also offered and delivered many free boat trips to the public, using two day boats which were kindly made available to the team.
At other times, the Brownies and Boys Brigade came to see an historic boat and then visited two of the more modern narrow boats, of which Spring Water was one. Whilst on our boat, I told the children the story of Jesus walking on the water, while the children dramatized it, being either the wind or the waves. They all left with a copy of the book ‘Super Cool Jesus’, which had been kindly provided by Canal Ministries.
Free boat trips ran all week and were very well received. Tracts were given out to the passengers, as were several ‘Why Jesus?’ booklets. Further to this, on the Saturday, the team hosted a fun day, which included a free barbeque, games, boat trips, refreshments and times for sharing the gospel with individuals, which was very exciting.
Andy and I were pleased to be able to speak to an evening house group about some of the ways we have experienced God's leading and compassion as He has brought us into contact with various needy people over the years. Canal Ministries' financial support has been given directly to helping such folk. For this we give God all the glory.
By God's grace we continue to offer guidance and encouragement to boaters in need of emotional and financial support. Later this week, we will continue to show God's love on the waterways by taking out folk on Spring Water for the day. Through this, we pray that they will be encouraged as we offer them refreshments and the opportunity for relaxation, sharing their concerns and praying, as the Holy Spirit leads.
Please pray with us for more people we meet to come to know Jesus, as we are ready to give the reason for the hope that we have in Him.
Every Blessing in Him
Andy and Sue Smith
NB Spring Water
Canal Ministries - sharing God's Love on the Inland Waterways.