THE
REASON
FOR
THE
SEASON
CHRISTMAS 2011
OUR
REASON
FOR
BEING
MINISTRY AND MIRACLES IN RUSSIA — October
We were privileged to teach extension courses for Moscow Theological Institute in UFA, Russia. You've never heard of it? Neither had we, but it is a city of more than 1 million people 2 hours by plane southeast of Moscow. There we taught a wonderful group of pastors and workers, eager to sharpen ministry tools.
In Moscow we met with the school leadership to share in their strategizing to train workers who will plant thousands of churches in the huge nation of Russia—it covers 11 time zones. With extensions in 20 locations and needing many more, the need for teachers like us is enormous. Two of our former students now coordinate the extensions and their ICI program.
We spent a wonderful day of fellowship and ministry with a lively group of seniors in a small church.
The Miracles
1. Everett's knee was swollen and so painful, we were planning to seek medical help. But while praying over many things in our room, he suddenly said, "I can bend my knee!" And we watched as the swelling went down.
2. Ready to check in at Moscow airport, we realized Evelyn's purse was missing-with passports, tickets, phones, credit cards, and money! Panic! And Prayer! Unbelievably, the purse was found after 30 minutes with NOTHING taken! AMAZING!
MINISTRY IN INDIA — November
We had a wonderful few weeks teaching at Southern Asia Bible College in Bangalore, India. Between us, we had 80 students from all over India and Nepal. To hear the stories of their calls and their visions for ministry in their own countries or beyond is so challenging and exciting. Many have sacrificed greatly to answer the call.
Evelyn spoke to the ladies of the campus, encouraging them with her own testimony of how God called her as a child and has enabled her to fulfil that call for nearly 50 years.
It was a delight to meet with one of our first students when we first came to SABC 20 years ago. Brother Abe coordinates ministry of churches all over India in conjunction with International Justice Mission. A powerful, passionate preacher, he shows from God's Word the responsibility we have to bring justice and freedom to people who are enslaved in all kinds of bondage-drugs, alcohol, prostitution (human trafficking of women and children), and slave labor. Many people innocently take a small loan and are forced to work the rest of their lives to pay it off!
You might want to go to the local market with us and buy a piece of goat meat.
PRAYER REQUESTS
- Critical need for work funds - we literally pray in funds every month and are using much of our retirement funds. If you can send some extra or add to monthly support, it would be great!
- Preaching a District Council in Philippines - December 19-21
- Former students who are working in very dangerous areas.
May your CHRISTMAS season be most BLESSED as you celebrate and share the message of the One who was born to die for the sins of the whole world!
THANKS for faithful prayer and support!
