David Duly
I thank the Lord for my time at Airdrie. During the last four months the Church has opened up their hearts, their doors, and their tables to Rocco, Ryan, and myself. I can honestly say that before I did the SIS course I was still very much a young theologian, I knew what I believed, and I knew why I believed it, but with the help of the classes, books, and fellowship with other believers I now understand my faith with a deeper knowledge and a deeper conviction. Scotland’s history is something that has got many a mention on the Semester in Scotland and everyone who has come on the SIS program has been able to study and learn about this great and glorious time. One thing that you find about men like John Knox and Andrew Melville is just how stubborn and sometimes downright rude they can come across, shouting and pointing fingers, complaining about this and that, but when you realise that these men did all these things for the Glory of God, you see how great God's Grace is. John Knox has always been a hated figure in history. I personally have met even Christians who despise this great man. He is seen as too harsh, or too extreme. What can I say? You find Knox extreme? Turn your eyes to the Law of God! Knox feared no man, the Covenanters who lived for Christ feared no men, they feared God. They feared Him who has the power to destroy both body and soul. This is probably the most important thing that I have learnt during my time here: we are to fear no one, our fear is to be aimed at God, the Great, Almighty, Sovereign God. Men and women will hate us, we will be mocked, and we will not look "cool" in the eyes of the world. This is just a consequence to our great calling to follow our master.
I can honestly say that before I did the SIS course I was still very much a young theologian, I knew what I believed, and I knew why I believed it, but with the help of the classes, books, and fellowship with other believers I now understand my faith with a deeper knowledge and a deeper conviction. |
Tim said something so significant to me when I first arrived, I asked him if he missed his family, his reply was quick and sobering, "The Church is my family".
I have received great blessings from my time here. Living with three Americans and sharing thanksgiving with the rest of the American members of the Church really did touch my heart (and fill my stomach). I have made so many new friends and felt the love of my brothers and my sisters here in Airdrie.