August 2008

Summer provides an opportunity for some vacation reading. Here's a brief window on some of the mission related reading I've been doing lately that you also might be interested in.

"Safely Home" (Randy Alcorn). With the upcoming Olympic Games focusing the spotlight on China, you might be interested in a fascinating story of both the growth and challenges of the Chinese house church movement. This novel is based on many true stories and is a reminder that faith grows stronger in the fire.

"The Forgotten Ways" (Allen Hirsch). This is a must read for anyone in vocational ministry today. The principles that Allen dusts off take us back to both the early church as well as pointing us to the phenomenal growth of the Chinese house churches. God loves every people group equally, but he works through a missional church. What he's doing in China today he can do everywhere, including North America.

"Disciples of All Nations" (Lamin Sanneh). This is a refreshingly unique perspective on the growing "post - Western awakening" written by an African scholar. Sanneh traces the growth of Christianity for the past 2000 years and in the process addresses key issues such as Islam, charismatic renewal and the impact of missionary lifestyle and culture on gospel receptivity.

"The Atlantic Monthly" (Summer Ideas Edition). Some great articles here for reflection and discussion. A few I enjoyed were the impact of "internet surfing" on our ability to concentrate, an analysis of the current Russian regime, and a fascinating look at the development of the electric car. It's not mission focused, but these are the ideas that are shaping the cultures we are trying to reach.

"The Word." To be effective as God's ambassadors we need to both know Him and know our culture. My first and most important reading each day is the Bible with some journal reflection. I've found a Bible reading schedule and brief journal response to what God is saying to me to be life giving.

Ministry Highlights

-Later this month, 12 new believers from a church plant in Thailand will be baptized. Praise God for these individuals who have chosen to take this step, proclaiming to their families, friends and neighbors that they are followers of Jesus!
-John N. and Mary Klassen recently moved to Canada after 48 years of fruitful ministry with MB Mission in Germany. We are so thankful for their committed service and their godly example.
-25 children recently participated in a day camp led by Laurence & Leona Hiebert in Japan. Many church members worked together so that children in their church and in their community could spend time learning about Jesus and having fun together.

Items for Prayer

-Short term ACTION participants are serving alongside long term missionaries around the world this summer. As they face challenges, try new things and take risks pray that they will hear God's voice and that they will be able to effectively communicate the gospel.
-As a number of new missionary candidates prepare to join us for Missionary Training and Equiping this year, starting in September, pray that God will use this time to equip them for their future ministry and build their faith.

Until all have heard,

Randy Friesen