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Developing Transformational Leadership |
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As President and leader of AFnet, I consider it a great privilege to write you this letter at the beginning of another year. I feel blessed and honored that God has allowed me the privilege to lead and direct this ministry over many years. But, what excites me the most is a deep sense of divine destiny and purpose yet ahead for AFnet.
Looking back over our history I cannot other than feel a sense of awe as I reflect back upon humble beginnings and, often-great struggles to keep the ministry afloat. Yet, through this all, God has blessed the ministry of AFnet. Churches have been planted across Africa through the influence of this ministry. Thousands of pastors and Christian leaders have been trained and
more effectively equipped for ministry through our various training
programs. And, of course, hundreds of orphans and destitute children
are now being cared for because we have allowed God to love them
through us.
 But, while it is good to look back, it is more important to know where
we are heading! And so, over the past year as I’ve reflected much upon
the needs of the church in Africa I’ve been reminded that the real deep
root of the problem still can be traced back to Leadership. I’ve had to
ask myself the question again; “What kind of leadership does the Church
in Africa need to face the challenges of our time?”
My growing sense is that we need leaders who are rooted in God’s Word,
can think from a Christian worldview perspective, are mature and godly
in faith and character, and can engage the world and their communities
with both vision and humility. And so I needed reminding again that at
the core of AFnet is this purpose, to develop that kind of
transformational leadership for the glory of God.
I’ve had a poster on my office wall for many years. It reads: “The main
thing is to keep the main thing the main thing!” Therefore, as we now
look forward across the year ahead of us I’m reminded also that we need
to stay focused upon the core values of our call. So, without
compromising on any element of our existing ministry I am personally
committed to give much greater attention again to leadership formation.
We must not neglect developing African Leaders who can lead the Church
with wisdom and godly passion.
At the same time, the tumultuous swings in the economy certainly made
2008 one of the hardest years that we have ever experienced. It took
every ounce of our resources to keep forging ahead. But as we look
back, we cannot other than stand amazed, awed and grateful for all that
God was able to do through the ministry of AFnet in spite of the hard
times. How amazing that God achieves His purposes in spite of our human
and earthly restrictions!
Therefore, as we begin this new year we can look ahead, fully expecting
that God will provide in our every need. We are committed to following
His lead, obediently fulfilling His call. But we need your prayers, and
as you can, your sacrificial support also in these difficult times to
enable us to stay the course through this year and on towards the
victorious fulfillment of all things for His glory.
I will love to hear from you, knowing that you stand with us in this vital ministry for Christ’s kingdom.
Johan and Christa Combrinck
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