"Western Tour" 2018
Walter has dubbed our most recent trip the "Western Tour" and we are just completing it as I write.  From Sexsmith to Ft. St. John to Salmon Arm to Merritt to Chilliwack to Cranbrook, we have met with NCEM missionaries to encourage and connect.
Some are honorary members, having retired from formal service to continue praying, supporting and reaching out as they can.  Our visits with these folks left us feeling very humbled and moved by their experiences in First Nations ministry.  Their knowledge of what is happening currently left us astounded.  I feel like we have just lived the Hebrews 12 "great cloud of witnesses" - the testimonies of those who have served before us- and are cheering us on!
Some are active members who are living and serving in Western Canada.  Christian radio, visitation, Bible studies, building relationships, hospitality in their homes and preaching on Sunday mornings are only some of the ways these missionaries fulfill the Great Commission of Matthew 28.
Some have faced personal loss, some have left their home countries, some have faced rejection and threats for the sake of the Gospel.  The stories we heard on this trip were of bush pilot close calls, prayers for milk money and all manner of hardships that read like the accounts of Paul!
Whenever we tried to express appreciation for their service, each one just looked down and said nothing or refused to take any credit or praise for themselves.  We had NCEM pins and jackets and gifts to give them and they were very humble and gracious but hesitant to receive such tokens.  It was very hard for us to out-give these generous folks who were more accustomed to giving than receiving!
Tonight, I am struggling to find the words to portray my heart.  We are tired after the ten day tour.  But we are energized by the promises of prayer along with warm hugs and affirming words.  In our sincere desire to encourage and listen, we come away not empty or weary but full!  Full of faith and hope and support in carrying on the work of the ministry that these servants have begun before us...
"and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith."  (Hebrews 12:1b & 2a)