It’s not a horse race, its called itineration. We are now four weeks into an eight month journey which promises to connect us with lots of great folks, cover many miles, consume gallons of coffee, and hopefully, experience a few miracles along the way. For those who aren’t aware of how our system works, in order for Gwen and me to get to Spain and our new assignment as Directors of International Media Ministries, we are required to raise a new budget with an increase of 33%. Yes, life and ministry based in Europe is not cheap in the current economy. We will visit churches and individuals, potential new partners and faithful ones, some who have stood with us in prayer and support for almost 20 years. We look forward to sitting down with as many people as we can, sharing our journey, presenting what we feel is a compelling vision of the future of media ministry and listening to the dreams and challenges of each of you, our partners in ministry.
The thought the Lord keeps giving me is change. Change requires risk. Change is the essence of the discipleship process. And change is the faith walk of each believer. Change brings the hope of new things, of advancement, of growth. Yet, change does not come without a cost. The price is our past comfort; an exchange of the known for the unknown, stability for instability, my control for God’s control. Gwen and I are willing to pay the price; risk comfort, reputation, finances and proximity of relationships for the rewards of obedience, advancement of God’s Kingdom, and lives touched with hope. We are willing to face change. How about you? When was the last time you did something for the first time? I hope you will join us in taking risks for God’s sake and we thank you for taking a chance on us, investing in the ministry God has called us to.
ISFM update
In this time of transition, Gwen and I continue to serve as the national director of International Student Friendship Ministries, with Chi Alpha until the end of 2008. With the launch of a new school year, reports are coming in of new friendships being formed as International students arrive on campus. Just the other day, a campus pastor called with a report of 33 American students who have formally committed to “making one more friend” with an international student. The numbers of Chi Alpha ministries who are intentional about doing outreach to international students has risen dramatically this past year, with 169 of our 223 charter groups reporting active ministry. This is up from just over half a few years ago! We are touching the world! Thanks for your faithful partnership!