IT WAS TIME FOR A CHANGE!
Since I began this blog - how many years ago - I've had the same maroon background. This morning when I sat down to write, I thought, "It's time to change things up!" I found this southern Saskatchewan prairie grass scene, complete with dandelion fluff, and it seems perfect!
Sometimes we just need a little change to add variety and newness to our lives. Not all change is a bad thing! Nothing in this life should stay exactly the same.
Our ministry, for instance. Over the years, we have made changes in our lives, in our strategies and focus to keep things moving. One of our supporters commented that he noticed we made key transitions in our ministry career, which he felt kept us fresh and cutting edge. We took that as an affirmation that we were on the right track!
Our most recent change in ministry has been one of the most life-altering for us personally...but then again, starting Healing Hearts Ministry was also up to that point, the most life-altering decision in our lives! Anyways, with being responsible to lead two mission organizations and travel as we have, we have certainly had to rely on God in new and profound ways than we ever had before. New roles, new challenges and broader impact geographically, as well as spiritually, have kept us on our toes. In this case, it was healthy for us (Walter, especially as a visionary with the need for new vision to cast) to accept this ministry adventure. And we trust, it has been healthy and beneficial for both HHM and NCEM for the changes our leadership style has brought.
In every major change, I have had a tougher time adjusting and flowing with the new and letting go of the old. I like routine, predictability and order. Probably my life motto is "Let's smooth out the wrinkles and make life flow..." or something like that. When I walk in a room, I like order and design. If things are too chaotic, I compulsively want to tidy! Probably not a wise move in someone else's space! But maybe pairing me with Walter, who loves new challenges and isn't content to leave things the same, needs me to help keep things orderly for our family and for those we minister to.
Speaking of being content, that's another aspect I've been contemplating as I think of change. Many times in the past three years, I have been exhausted beyond my capacity! I have been away from home and routine, just wishing I was in the comfort of my own space. Then we would be home for a stretch of time, and I would grow restless, ready for our next adventure on the road!
Last week, as Walter and I were exploring the rocky shore along the North Saskatchewan River, after eating take-out Chinese food to celebrate our anniversary, I had this fleeting thought: I'm glad I am here! I wasn't wishing to be at a fancy restaurant or nice hotel for our anniversary. I wasn't even pining for home. The realization came that I wanted to be exactly where I was and with my husband, wherever that would be!
I think that is the definition of being content. The verses in Philippians that Paul shared about financial contentment applied to me. "Not that I am speaking of being in need, for I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content. I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need." (Philippians 4:11 & 12) That secret for me was to realize I didn't want to be somewhere else or with someone else at that moment. I was content.
I am so thankful that my Lord is so patient in teaching me these lessons. We serve an awesome God! His changes in us are always the best!
Tuesday, 26 May 2020
Sunday, 10 May 2020
What is Mother's Day like during the pandemic?
Actually, it was pretty nice. First call in the morning was my son, Mark and his wife, Amy. Of course it was already 10 am in Manitoba so not that early! It always warms my heart as my eldest honours me so well. An Amazon gift card arrived shortly after through text message. Very slick!
Caylea texted me just before we began watching our worship service at 11 am. She's not an early bird when it comes to mornings! But she send many lovely flowers via emoji and it was so nice to hear from her. (She is on a break from the city and working with an intern on social media material - and she is doing well in a more team environment.)
Last but not last...Daniel came over yesterday afternoon and brought me flowers! So he wins the first to wish me Happy Mother's Day! He also came over today after church services online. We drove by Grandma Dinah's to give a gift and card and have a social distance visit. Then we took a nice drive out in the country to Deer Valley and points beyond. In other words, we wandered backroads and eventually found Deer Valley. By the time we got home, we were all quite ready to order some take-out for supper!
I called my mom, as well. Brief visit as she and Clarence were about to have lunch with her mother and my aunt and uncle. A small gathering.
So all in all, it seemed fairly normal.
On the Healing Hearts front, church service happened with a worship team and preacher on site. Then from 1:30-3:00 pm they served an ice cream treat and gave a rose to Mom's that drove up to the church parking lot. A special touch!
On the NCEM side, I have a praise report. One of the young missionaries was feeling the pressures of the COVID restrictions, with the added responsibility of a four-year-old son with autism. Worry over the virus, frustration with the lack of supplies in their small community store, she began to pray in desperation. One thing she needed, and a small thing she admitted, was body wash. But, at the moment, it felt so big along with everything else she was feeling! The next day or so after she had been praying, some friends delivered an Easter care package, just because. As they opened the basket and unpacked the items, guess what was among the items? Body wash. Two bottles.
Isn't that like our God? He sees our need, hears our prayers and give more than we asked.
I hope this testimony and my blog can increase your hope and build your faith!
(The quote below is an attempt at humour about social distancing- please forgive me! Sometimes being alone so much means I find the strangest things funny!!!)
Actually, it was pretty nice. First call in the morning was my son, Mark and his wife, Amy. Of course it was already 10 am in Manitoba so not that early! It always warms my heart as my eldest honours me so well. An Amazon gift card arrived shortly after through text message. Very slick!
Caylea texted me just before we began watching our worship service at 11 am. She's not an early bird when it comes to mornings! But she send many lovely flowers via emoji and it was so nice to hear from her. (She is on a break from the city and working with an intern on social media material - and she is doing well in a more team environment.)
Last but not last...Daniel came over yesterday afternoon and brought me flowers! So he wins the first to wish me Happy Mother's Day! He also came over today after church services online. We drove by Grandma Dinah's to give a gift and card and have a social distance visit. Then we took a nice drive out in the country to Deer Valley and points beyond. In other words, we wandered backroads and eventually found Deer Valley. By the time we got home, we were all quite ready to order some take-out for supper!
I called my mom, as well. Brief visit as she and Clarence were about to have lunch with her mother and my aunt and uncle. A small gathering.
So all in all, it seemed fairly normal.
On the Healing Hearts front, church service happened with a worship team and preacher on site. Then from 1:30-3:00 pm they served an ice cream treat and gave a rose to Mom's that drove up to the church parking lot. A special touch!
On the NCEM side, I have a praise report. One of the young missionaries was feeling the pressures of the COVID restrictions, with the added responsibility of a four-year-old son with autism. Worry over the virus, frustration with the lack of supplies in their small community store, she began to pray in desperation. One thing she needed, and a small thing she admitted, was body wash. But, at the moment, it felt so big along with everything else she was feeling! The next day or so after she had been praying, some friends delivered an Easter care package, just because. As they opened the basket and unpacked the items, guess what was among the items? Body wash. Two bottles.
Isn't that like our God? He sees our need, hears our prayers and give more than we asked.
I hope this testimony and my blog can increase your hope and build your faith!
(The quote below is an attempt at humour about social distancing- please forgive me! Sometimes being alone so much means I find the strangest things funny!!!)
Tuesday, 28 April 2020
Just to touch base with my blog friends, we are doing OK!
From sheer boredom and lack of motivation to joy and excitement for the vision God is giving for COVID-19 lockdown ministry...we never have a "normal" day!
This week, we are doing a newsletter mailing so our family and friends will be updated with the pandemic. Three questions I answered in our letter: how are we doing? how is COVID affecting our ministry? how is God working through this pandemic?
The bag of addressed and stamped envelopes is waiting by the front door to be mailed.
Done.
Tomorrow, Walter is hosting a Zoom AGM (annual general meeting) for NCEM. It was to be held at a staff conference in mid-April at Dallas Valley Ranch Camp near Regina, but that all was cancelled. Thus technology saves the day, once again! So as Walter coordinates the meeting, sends out the invitations to the 100+ members and the chairman gives his directions, as well, we have been busy in anticipation of this new way to do meetings. Everyone had to mail in ballots for the items that required voting. Interesting times.
Walter is also helping coordinate distribution of masks, gloves and disinfectants to northern communities. With the resources of Northern Youth Programs out of Dryden, ON and Samaritan's Purse in Calgary, we are also teaming with Native Evangelical Fellowship of Canada to fly in to communities and be a blessing. We hope to also give out Tribal Trails videos and maybe literature or Bibles if the folks would like such materials. This is what the ministry during a time like this is all about!
With the nicer temperatures, we have taken frequent walks - usually one hour or over 7,000 steps. I've completed two puzzles (1,500 piece and 1,000 piece) with Daniel's help. I also washed down all my bathroom and laundry room walls to do a spring cleaning. But that cleaning spree has now passed and I'd rather be doing something outdoors now.
Hope y'all are doing well. As there are plans for gradual and cautious reopening of our SK businesses and services, we hope for life to restart. Lord, give our leaders wisdom and grant us favour.
My theme verse has been: "Be still and know that I am God. I will be honoured by every nation. I will be honoured throughout the world." (Psalm 46:10) May this be so, Lord!
From sheer boredom and lack of motivation to joy and excitement for the vision God is giving for COVID-19 lockdown ministry...we never have a "normal" day!
This week, we are doing a newsletter mailing so our family and friends will be updated with the pandemic. Three questions I answered in our letter: how are we doing? how is COVID affecting our ministry? how is God working through this pandemic?
The bag of addressed and stamped envelopes is waiting by the front door to be mailed.
Done.
Tomorrow, Walter is hosting a Zoom AGM (annual general meeting) for NCEM. It was to be held at a staff conference in mid-April at Dallas Valley Ranch Camp near Regina, but that all was cancelled. Thus technology saves the day, once again! So as Walter coordinates the meeting, sends out the invitations to the 100+ members and the chairman gives his directions, as well, we have been busy in anticipation of this new way to do meetings. Everyone had to mail in ballots for the items that required voting. Interesting times.
Walter is also helping coordinate distribution of masks, gloves and disinfectants to northern communities. With the resources of Northern Youth Programs out of Dryden, ON and Samaritan's Purse in Calgary, we are also teaming with Native Evangelical Fellowship of Canada to fly in to communities and be a blessing. We hope to also give out Tribal Trails videos and maybe literature or Bibles if the folks would like such materials. This is what the ministry during a time like this is all about!
With the nicer temperatures, we have taken frequent walks - usually one hour or over 7,000 steps. I've completed two puzzles (1,500 piece and 1,000 piece) with Daniel's help. I also washed down all my bathroom and laundry room walls to do a spring cleaning. But that cleaning spree has now passed and I'd rather be doing something outdoors now.
Hope y'all are doing well. As there are plans for gradual and cautious reopening of our SK businesses and services, we hope for life to restart. Lord, give our leaders wisdom and grant us favour.
My theme verse has been: "Be still and know that I am God. I will be honoured by every nation. I will be honoured throughout the world." (Psalm 46:10) May this be so, Lord!
Sunday, 19 April 2020
I feel like I have been busy, yet not busy! We slowed our pace and now adding anything extra feels like too much. Yet, only a month or so ago, our pace was fast and furious and seemed normal. Oh, to have a consistent life with the energy to be flexible!
So, we had Easter weekend. How different! No gathering for Good Friday or Easter Sunday, no meal with extended family or church family. Hmmm.
It certainly gave me more time to read the Scriptural account of Jesus' last week and last hours on earth. I could give more thought to His sacrifice. I could feel His suffering and meditate on the cost of Jesus' life for my sin. I did a Facebook live worship time on Good Friday afternoon. We observed our fasting that day and joined the Facebook live communion service with Healing Hearts. Walter, Daniel and myself shared the bread and juice in our living room. Memorable.
Preparing a simpler but tasty meal for Easter Sunday seemed weird but nice. Ham, mashed potatoes and vegetables, a salad. I made chocolate pudding with whipped topping for dessert. Quiet but still a special time to remember our Risen Saviour. Although everything surrounding us is out of sorts, this eternal fact remains and Easter could not be cancelled!
Continuing with my Facebook Live Bible study and worship time has been a lifeline for me! Even though I don't have that many following, it is still good for me to study, to speak out what I am learning and have an outlet for ministry. I especially enjoy the music aspect and that seems to be something people respond to, even on a computer screen! As I taught on the prayer pattern "ACTS", I was inspired to keep on with the theme through "The Lord's Prayer". I have done an introduction, and now will keep on this coming week, unpacking each phrase and how we can use it as a guideline for our prayer lives.
After being away from the NCEM headquarters for one month, Walter had been keeping in touch with the Executive team via Zoom. With the social distancing, it became apparent that the overall feeling was that a visit by the General Director would help encourage the troops and give some stability and security that seemed to be lacking. Walter organized a Zoom Day of Prayer with the Prince Albert staff and our IT guy made it work well. Although a little odd and awkward, I led some worship and Jason shared a devotional. Then Walter led in prayer and the various participants had email prayer requests that they also prayed in turn. It's amazing how creative we can be to stay connected and continue to serve God!
In all, we are doing well. We are adjusting and adapting to this new way of life. Events are being postponed with our ministries, but we know this all will soon pass. Then it will be busy! And I mean, activities and conferences will resume. But I hope we can learn to pace ourselves and take time to appreciate the Lord and each other.
Have a wonderful Sunday, my family and friends. We love you all and miss being able to just get together for a visit or a meal. Boy, will we ever have a celebration when we can meet again!
So, we had Easter weekend. How different! No gathering for Good Friday or Easter Sunday, no meal with extended family or church family. Hmmm.
It certainly gave me more time to read the Scriptural account of Jesus' last week and last hours on earth. I could give more thought to His sacrifice. I could feel His suffering and meditate on the cost of Jesus' life for my sin. I did a Facebook live worship time on Good Friday afternoon. We observed our fasting that day and joined the Facebook live communion service with Healing Hearts. Walter, Daniel and myself shared the bread and juice in our living room. Memorable.
Preparing a simpler but tasty meal for Easter Sunday seemed weird but nice. Ham, mashed potatoes and vegetables, a salad. I made chocolate pudding with whipped topping for dessert. Quiet but still a special time to remember our Risen Saviour. Although everything surrounding us is out of sorts, this eternal fact remains and Easter could not be cancelled!
Continuing with my Facebook Live Bible study and worship time has been a lifeline for me! Even though I don't have that many following, it is still good for me to study, to speak out what I am learning and have an outlet for ministry. I especially enjoy the music aspect and that seems to be something people respond to, even on a computer screen! As I taught on the prayer pattern "ACTS", I was inspired to keep on with the theme through "The Lord's Prayer". I have done an introduction, and now will keep on this coming week, unpacking each phrase and how we can use it as a guideline for our prayer lives.
After being away from the NCEM headquarters for one month, Walter had been keeping in touch with the Executive team via Zoom. With the social distancing, it became apparent that the overall feeling was that a visit by the General Director would help encourage the troops and give some stability and security that seemed to be lacking. Walter organized a Zoom Day of Prayer with the Prince Albert staff and our IT guy made it work well. Although a little odd and awkward, I led some worship and Jason shared a devotional. Then Walter led in prayer and the various participants had email prayer requests that they also prayed in turn. It's amazing how creative we can be to stay connected and continue to serve God!
In all, we are doing well. We are adjusting and adapting to this new way of life. Events are being postponed with our ministries, but we know this all will soon pass. Then it will be busy! And I mean, activities and conferences will resume. But I hope we can learn to pace ourselves and take time to appreciate the Lord and each other.
Have a wonderful Sunday, my family and friends. We love you all and miss being able to just get together for a visit or a meal. Boy, will we ever have a celebration when we can meet again!
Sunday, 5 April 2020
My next book should be called "What God is Teaching Me Through COVID-19" subtitled, "Lockdown Isn't a Punishment." Can anyone out there relate?
Surprisingly, I am learning that I am more of an "I" personality in my 50's than I have ever exhibited. When I found I must stay at home and not participate in group activities and gatherings, I reacted badly. I felt trapped, angry, indignant, then worried and fearful of what this pandemic would mean for us all. While Walter, who is normally an active, project-driven person, is actually enjoying this down-time and accepting the parameters with little resistance, I have taken longer to settle down and roll with this social distancing and self-isolation.
Now that I am a couple of weeks into this new normal, I have developed some routine for myself and our household. I am trying to keep my morning quiet time consistent and that has been wonderful. With no need to rush into the day, I can meet with the Lord and enjoy journalling, singing, reading and praying. I am planning and preparing tasty meals, which has been good for our health and making use of leftovers more efficiently. Making exercise a daily habit, we walk often, or I have a workout DVD that keeps me moving and stretching! I am learning to discipline myself into a routine once again, now that our schedule of travel and commuting has ground to a halt.
Although not a new lesson, I am discovering how I value our family time with just "us." With Caylea at home, and Daniel the only outside person coming into the house, we are spending more time together for meals, visiting, playing games or watching movies. Walter and Caylea have worked on wood projects and Daniel has tinkered on his car, all taking place in Walter's beloved garage. Having each other to ride through this storm has been precious. We miss Mark and Amy! I am so glad they were able to come out a few weekends ago before the inter-provincial travel restrictions were in place. But phone calls and texts have kept us connected.
I am learning so many rich lessons from the Word of God. Last weekend when I ventured into leading some worship times on Facebook Live, I had read a Scripture in Psalm 45 that linked to Hebrews 4. "Your throne, O God is forever and ever..." and "Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace..." I was sharing how I had seen many Facebook memes and others quoting this phrase "God is still on His throne", and this truth was important in the face of this pandemic crisis. And as I was about to lead in some prayer, it struck me how God is on His throne in power and might, yet He also invites us to His throne to cry out to Him! We can come with confidence and not dread, that He will comfort us and show us His mercy and grace.
Today, as Walter, Caylea and I led a Facebook Live worship service from our dining room for Healing Hearts Ministry, I realized just how God can bring His people together even if they can't meet in person. As we sang, joked together a little, shouted "Praise the Lord!" and Walter preached his heart out, it all felt just as if our teammates and the church family were right there with us. God is amazing and the spiritual bonds we have in Christ are incredible to experience.
I am learning to trust the Lord more. The news is reporting various numbers, experts are giving various words of advice and we are trying to use the sense God gave us. But it is only the Lord God Himself who can bring us through this crisis and I am content in that fact.
One more lesson: this pandemic experience may go down in history as the "Great Toilet Paper Crisis of 2020." I hope we can look back and laugh when this is all over!
HAVE A GREAT WEEK, EVERYONE!
Surprisingly, I am learning that I am more of an "I" personality in my 50's than I have ever exhibited. When I found I must stay at home and not participate in group activities and gatherings, I reacted badly. I felt trapped, angry, indignant, then worried and fearful of what this pandemic would mean for us all. While Walter, who is normally an active, project-driven person, is actually enjoying this down-time and accepting the parameters with little resistance, I have taken longer to settle down and roll with this social distancing and self-isolation.
Now that I am a couple of weeks into this new normal, I have developed some routine for myself and our household. I am trying to keep my morning quiet time consistent and that has been wonderful. With no need to rush into the day, I can meet with the Lord and enjoy journalling, singing, reading and praying. I am planning and preparing tasty meals, which has been good for our health and making use of leftovers more efficiently. Making exercise a daily habit, we walk often, or I have a workout DVD that keeps me moving and stretching! I am learning to discipline myself into a routine once again, now that our schedule of travel and commuting has ground to a halt.
Although not a new lesson, I am discovering how I value our family time with just "us." With Caylea at home, and Daniel the only outside person coming into the house, we are spending more time together for meals, visiting, playing games or watching movies. Walter and Caylea have worked on wood projects and Daniel has tinkered on his car, all taking place in Walter's beloved garage. Having each other to ride through this storm has been precious. We miss Mark and Amy! I am so glad they were able to come out a few weekends ago before the inter-provincial travel restrictions were in place. But phone calls and texts have kept us connected.
I am learning so many rich lessons from the Word of God. Last weekend when I ventured into leading some worship times on Facebook Live, I had read a Scripture in Psalm 45 that linked to Hebrews 4. "Your throne, O God is forever and ever..." and "Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace..." I was sharing how I had seen many Facebook memes and others quoting this phrase "God is still on His throne", and this truth was important in the face of this pandemic crisis. And as I was about to lead in some prayer, it struck me how God is on His throne in power and might, yet He also invites us to His throne to cry out to Him! We can come with confidence and not dread, that He will comfort us and show us His mercy and grace.
Today, as Walter, Caylea and I led a Facebook Live worship service from our dining room for Healing Hearts Ministry, I realized just how God can bring His people together even if they can't meet in person. As we sang, joked together a little, shouted "Praise the Lord!" and Walter preached his heart out, it all felt just as if our teammates and the church family were right there with us. God is amazing and the spiritual bonds we have in Christ are incredible to experience.
I am learning to trust the Lord more. The news is reporting various numbers, experts are giving various words of advice and we are trying to use the sense God gave us. But it is only the Lord God Himself who can bring us through this crisis and I am content in that fact.
One more lesson: this pandemic experience may go down in history as the "Great Toilet Paper Crisis of 2020." I hope we can look back and laugh when this is all over!
HAVE A GREAT WEEK, EVERYONE!
Sunday, 29 March 2020
I did something new.
I did a worship session on Facebook Live!
Last week I had listened to the sermon online and wrote in my blog the things I thought were God's ministry for me. As I really miss worshipping through music with other believers, I thought this might be a way to obey what God was challenging me to do. So in my very amateur way, I chose some of my favourite songs that were public domain, and some that I had written, and sang my heart out!
The instant replies, comments, likes and even a song request really blessed me! All I had wanted was to offer something to the Lord and encourage others who might be feeling like me - wishing to worship with others.
This morning, Walter and I joined Caylea to watch the online Calvary Baptist service. Her interview with Pastor Luke Miller went very well! Funny, engaging and informative.
It was such a quiet day. Sundays are usually much busier. So, I chose a few more songs, not worrying about the copyright of songs as I am covered by both Healing Hearts and NCEM CCLI song licensing. What fun to sing, have a few more folks interact and say some hello's! I guess I am more of an extrovert than I realized and needed more people connection.
We rested, had a friendly game of Crokinole and a family supper together.
Never too old to try a new way to serve the Lord!
I did a worship session on Facebook Live!
Last week I had listened to the sermon online and wrote in my blog the things I thought were God's ministry for me. As I really miss worshipping through music with other believers, I thought this might be a way to obey what God was challenging me to do. So in my very amateur way, I chose some of my favourite songs that were public domain, and some that I had written, and sang my heart out!
The instant replies, comments, likes and even a song request really blessed me! All I had wanted was to offer something to the Lord and encourage others who might be feeling like me - wishing to worship with others.
This morning, Walter and I joined Caylea to watch the online Calvary Baptist service. Her interview with Pastor Luke Miller went very well! Funny, engaging and informative.
It was such a quiet day. Sundays are usually much busier. So, I chose a few more songs, not worrying about the copyright of songs as I am covered by both Healing Hearts and NCEM CCLI song licensing. What fun to sing, have a few more folks interact and say some hello's! I guess I am more of an extrovert than I realized and needed more people connection.
We rested, had a friendly game of Crokinole and a family supper together.
Never too old to try a new way to serve the Lord!
Thursday, 26 March 2020
Once a month I write a short thought for the NCEM in-house newsletter called "Labourers Together." My themes are on how to build our support teams, the churches and individuals who donate to our ministry projects financially and stand behind us in prayer. From practical tips on how to write a prayer letter to encouragement for those who are not comfortable with presenting themselves and their ministry, I share my own experiences and insights of other veteran missionaries.
Two neat things have happened this week for people close to us. First of all, Caylea was to be presenting at a church here in Regina this coming Sunday. She has been part of their Young Adults Bible study on Monday nights for a few years now and was asked to share with that group about a year ago. Then a few months ago, the missions director/pastor met Caylea and was very interested in her ministry. So this was quite an exciting and hopeful opportunity for her to speak on her vision for First Nations ministry...alas, the COVID-19 crisis has shut down public gatherings.
Creatively adapting to the situation, the pastor invited Caylea to come to the church this week and record her presentation in an interview style. She wore her NCEM sweatshirt and brought some mugs and other SWAG (give away items with logos of the ministries) for both NCEM and Healing Hearts. I can't wait to watch how the interview went when it is shown during the online worship service this Sunday!
The second amazing story I heard (technically I read - it was a text!) was from our missionary friends in northern Canada. They have also worked part-time at the local Salvation Army but had recently decreased their involvement there. With challenges now to the economy, and their secondary income had decreased, this couple was concerned about how to raise their support to an adequate level. God heard their prayers.
A random donor to the ministry they belong to, designated their gift to go "where needed most." In a case like that, the bookkeeper would have a list of missionaries who were low in support and assign the gift to one of them. Our friends' level was low enough that they were on that list. When the missionaries sent a "thank you" note to the address given from the donor, it turns out the woman had been born in that very community where our friends' serve. She had wonderful memories and a soft spot in her heart for that place and felt God had blessed her with this surprise connection! Her donations (and prayers) will now go towards our friends on a monthly basis. How awesome is that?
In the midst of a dark and confusing time, God shows His faithfulness and loving care.
Two neat things have happened this week for people close to us. First of all, Caylea was to be presenting at a church here in Regina this coming Sunday. She has been part of their Young Adults Bible study on Monday nights for a few years now and was asked to share with that group about a year ago. Then a few months ago, the missions director/pastor met Caylea and was very interested in her ministry. So this was quite an exciting and hopeful opportunity for her to speak on her vision for First Nations ministry...alas, the COVID-19 crisis has shut down public gatherings.
Creatively adapting to the situation, the pastor invited Caylea to come to the church this week and record her presentation in an interview style. She wore her NCEM sweatshirt and brought some mugs and other SWAG (give away items with logos of the ministries) for both NCEM and Healing Hearts. I can't wait to watch how the interview went when it is shown during the online worship service this Sunday!
The second amazing story I heard (technically I read - it was a text!) was from our missionary friends in northern Canada. They have also worked part-time at the local Salvation Army but had recently decreased their involvement there. With challenges now to the economy, and their secondary income had decreased, this couple was concerned about how to raise their support to an adequate level. God heard their prayers.
A random donor to the ministry they belong to, designated their gift to go "where needed most." In a case like that, the bookkeeper would have a list of missionaries who were low in support and assign the gift to one of them. Our friends' level was low enough that they were on that list. When the missionaries sent a "thank you" note to the address given from the donor, it turns out the woman had been born in that very community where our friends' serve. She had wonderful memories and a soft spot in her heart for that place and felt God had blessed her with this surprise connection! Her donations (and prayers) will now go towards our friends on a monthly basis. How awesome is that?
In the midst of a dark and confusing time, God shows His faithfulness and loving care.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)