JOEL BEEKE ATTACKED IN RIGA, LATVIA

Dr. Joel Beeke of Grand Rapids has been visiting Riga and Latvia, lecturing at the Reformed Seminary. Malcolm Firth at Riga reported on11th January: "Joel has had a horrible time so far. He had 5 flights to get to Riga and arrived on Tuesday a few hours before he began lecturing. The airline lost his luggage (and they still haven't found it yet), and then on Wednesday night he was tied up and gagged whilst leaving the Seminary - told to lie face down and left there for about an hour, whilst his assailants stole his money, watch and other valuables. He testified to God's goodness tonight, how the Lord comforted him, bringing promises from his Word to encourage his heart throughout the ordeal. He said that he fully expected to die ... and was ready to, but by God's mercy he was preserved. His wife is with him now, and the lectures have been moved to one of the big hotels in town. He is a wonderful lecturer - clear and methodical, and then there are times when he can't help but preach to us. These are precious moments." Malcolm Firth added, "I am still struggling with my talks on Spurgeon. How do you share such a man's life and influence in a couple of lectures? And Stuart Olyott is here on the platform too! It's a pity I can't quote too much as it doesn't come over in translation too well. Pity. There are such nuggets there."

GEOFF THOMAS