May 2012
It’s hard to believe there are still cities in the world of hundreds of thousands of people with no known churches. Central Asia has many such cities. One of our church planting teams in the region recently reported that a new church gathered for the first time. Twenty three people, ranging in age from 10-50, met in a home. All of them were new believers or seriously seeking. After worship and a brief sermon, the pastor explained the meaning of communion.
As preparations were being made a man indicated he was ready to commit his life to Christ. He wanted to declare his faith in Christ right then so that he too could participate in communion. One field worker exclaimed: “The air was filled with excitement! Everyone was dancing, singing, clapping and embracing. What a celebration!” Later in the evening, one of this man’s two sons who were present declared that he too wanted to follow Jesus. This family will never be the same.
That’s why we send teams to least-reached people groups!
We are discerning new potential long-term workers again this spring and anticipate another twenty workers entering our Mission Training and Equipping (MTE) program this fall. Your investments in giving, praying and going are bearing fruit! Thank you.
I was encouraged this morning by the story of Jonathan and his armor bearer in 1 Samuel 14. Despite the prevailing climate of discouragement, fear and paralysis, Jonathan declared: “Nothing can hinder the Lord from saving, whether by many or by few” (14:6). That’s real faith. We are still looking for people of faith to serve in challenging environments! Jonathan’s armor bearer responded to this declaration of faith by saying, “Do all that you have in mind… Go ahead; I am with you heart and soul” (14:7).
We are praying for long term teams to be formed which are full of faith, encouragement and have a clear picture of their mission amongst least-reached people. Thank you for joining us in this mission!
Ministry Highlights
Global Mission Fellowship (GMF) – From May 14-17, Christian leaders will meet together in Basil, Switzerland to plan and pray together. GMF is an international ministry that mobilizes churches, pastors, and lay people to plant new churches throughout the world.
Annual ICOMB Conference - A number of pastors, leaders and MB Mission staff will meet, also in Basil Switzerland, from May 16-18. Please give thanks to God with us for churches from the Ukraine, Lithuania and the N. Khmu who are excited to become members of the International Conference of MB Churches. Our family is growing!
Items for Prayer
Lead Team Summit – From May 30-June 1, our MB Mission Lead Team will meet together for our Summit. We will spend our time praying together and discerning the strategic direction of our ministry for the next five years. In preparation for this time, our team has been reading Leading from the Sandbox by T.J. Addington. We are privileged to have Mr. Addington join our Summit as a resource and encouragement! We appreciate your prayers for the Holy Spirit’s wisdom and counsel during this significant time together.
Spring Adventure Follow-up – Thank you for praying for wisdom for our leaders during our Spring Adventure in April. Much of May will be spent praying and discerning as we conduct further interviews and reference checks in anticipation of inviting these committed individuals and families to attend our Mission Training and Equipping (MTE) this fall. We appreciate your continued prayers.
Vision for Mission