As we begin our new ministry we are reminded of the need of prayer and the need for the presence and power of our Savior to enable us in our service for Him. And so, we ask you as Paul did the Thessalonicans, "Brethren, pray for us." ( I Thess 5:25).
We are rejoicing in the honor and privilege of preaching the Word of God and serving our wonderful Savior! The very first Sunday after nine years of pastoral ministry at Marquette, I was especially grateful to be able to preach the whole day at the First Baptist Church of Oregon, Illinois for Pastor Jerry Clark. I believe the Lord blessed His Word and His servant as we ministered to His people on the need of missions. The fellowship with God's people, and the pastor and his wife, was a great blessing! We also had the opportunity to talk with a family whose daughter is burdened and considering God's call into missionary work. Pray the Lord will give her clarity and confidence of His calling and leading.
On October 10-14 we had the joy of participating in the Missions Conference at Kettle Morraine Baptist Church in Whitewater, WI with Pastor Tom Fuller. The theme of the conference was taken from Romans 15:9, "That the heathen might glorify God for His mercy." I was able to preach on Sunday morning, Monday morning, and Wednesday night. I also had the opportunity of presenting our new minsitry on Tuesday night and sharing the testimony of my call to preach (along with the other missionaries) to a young men's Bible class. God is at work in many hearts - pray the Lord will call forth laborers from this church and enable them as they seek to support the ministry of missions.
Our hearts are very encouraged as we see the Lord enabling us and allowing us to preach and serve Him in this new ministry. But we are reminded that only He can accomplish the work in hearts and lives. So, please pray for us and for God to use us to His glory. Pray that I will adjust well to an itinerant ministry after many years of a pastoral ministry.
Allow me to thank you for you prayers, we sense the Lord's help and anser to your prayers. Allow me also to thank you in advance for all your continued prayers!