Prayer Calendar Dec. 4-10,2016

Coming tomorrow on The Call blog:

I walked through the door, and I was immediately met with the delicious aroma of good food lingering in the air. Bright tables and chairs were coupled with the familiar sound of rapid conversations in Spanish. I had stopped by a local Mexican restaurant to see if they would be interested in having me volunteer once a week to teach an English as a Second Language class before they opened for the day. 

Ask God to help you reach out with His love to someone who needs Him today. 

Open Arms

Kristen Tropf, Volunteer, Spain

The Call, July-September 2016

It’s said you never truly understand someone until you walk a mile in his shoes. I never imagined I’d experience life as an immigrant, but several years ago God led me to live in a foreign country in order to work with immigrants. An immigrant living alongside immigrants. I didn’t expect it to be easy living in a foreign country, but it was much harder than I expected. Between language learning, government paperwork, culture shock, learning how to do simple tasks in a different context, and being far from family, sometimes just getting through the day was a victory!

As I adjusted to life in a foreign country and got to know my students and listen to their stories, I got a close-up view of their difficulties. Many came here in search of a better life or more opportunities but have only been disappointed with the outcome. Others feel alone and isolated—far away from loved ones and at odds with the new culture. At times they feel unaccepted and unwelcome in this new land. 

It’s here in this vulnerable state, far from all that is familiar, that God gives us the precious opportunity to be Jesus in the flesh to them. We have the privilege to show His acceptance, love, and grace. We can welcome them with open arms. God has always had a soft spot in His heart for the marginalized—the foreigner, the widow, the orphan, the poor. He longs for us, His redeemed people, to also share His heart of compassion.

Here are a few practical suggestions for ways we can reach out to immigrants or those new to our country:

• Invite someone from another country to your home for a meal
• Offer to practice English conversation with them
• Learn about their culture and worldview—they have rich experiences to share
• Make yourself available to assist with healthcare processes or enrolling children in school

May we remember that we also are foreigners here, awaiting our permanent home, our true country. And then may we bring a part of that kingdom here to earth by loving those who are far from home.

ACT: Kristen offers some very practical ways to welcome immigrants with open arms. Sometimes it’s easier to make new friends alongside someone else. This month, grab a trusted friend and ask them to help you intentionally befriend someone from another culture, using one of Kristen’s suggestions. 

PRAY: Praise God for volunteers like Kristen, who are willing to “walk a mile” in the shoes of immigrants.

Unavoidable But Manageable

Twana Johnson, Retiree, Mexico
April-June 2016

Transition is a word we hear often as missionaries as we move back and forth between our fields of service and our home country. It’s unavoidable. However, I have learned that it is manageable.

When our oldest son was a senior in high school, we were privileged to go to an MK conference where we heard David Pollock speak on this subject. We are forever grateful for the insights he gave as he outlined the steps of transition.

One part that helped me the most as I have made the many transitions is what he called Building Your RAFT. It was an acronym for Reconciliation, Affirmation, Farewells, and Thinking ahead. Each time we have moved since then, I have tried to do these four things.

1. Reconciliation means being intentional about reviewing relationships during the last period of time in a certain place and seeing if anything needed to be made right. Was there a thoughtless word or action that needed to be patched up? Had I neglected to do something that should have been done? Had I done all things possible to restore a broken relationship? Had I asked forgiveness or extended forgiveness? Was I leaving with a clear conscience? 
2. Affirmation means being intentional about letting people know how much you appreciate them and certain actions or qualities of those people. This is easier than reconciliation, yet often in the business of getting ready to leave, it is easily forgotten. For those left behind, it makes a difference to know they were appreciated. I learned that it was not just your friends that needed to hear this but also those who provide services in the places you frequent.
3. Farewells or saying goodbye. Farewells are painful, especially when family, dear friends, and coworkers are left behind. It’s much easier to just disappear and not go through the gut-wrenching goodbyes. Besides, I hate crying in front of people—red eyes, snotty nose, inability to speak—you get the picture. However, goodbyes are so important. I learned it is not just people, but we also need to say goodbye to places, pets, and even ministries or positions. If we don’t learn to say goodbye well, it is more difficult to say hello and develop good relationships in the new place. 
4. Thinking ahead means planning and looking to the future and to what may be in store for us. When we were leaving Bolivia after more than 20 years, I was so sad to be leaving a place so dear to me. God sent another missionary to help me realize the effect this was having on our children and on me. I could see only the negative and not the positive of the future assignment. I thank the Lord for that missionary’s insight. Once I started thinking ahead and trusting the Lord for the future, the leaving wasn’t as difficult. 

It’s been many years and many moves since that conference. Sometimes the RAFT has been a little leaky and the transitions haven’t been as smooth as I would have liked. But with the Lord’s help, He has helped me stay afloat. 

ACT: Are you anticipating a move in the near future? Who do you need to reconcile with? Who can you affirm? Don’t try to escape the farewell party. Savor every minute together and say what needs to be said. Remember to think ahead toward all that the Lord has in store for you as you walk in His steps.

He Directs My Path

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Karen Rickel, Retiree, Honduras
April-June 2016

Proverbs 3:5-6 (NKJV) says, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths.” I learned this verse as a child, and it has encouraged me many times when unexpected changes have occurred in my life. Whether I have faced a change in my ministry, such as a new assignment, or a personal crisis, such as an illness or family concerns, I’ve found my faith growing stronger when I remember that God is in control. That has never been truer than it is now when I am in the United States on a medical leave rather than in Honduras.

I was diagnosed with uterine cancer in November 2011. I came to the U.S. for treatment, which included surgery, chemo, and radiation. By the fall of 2012, I was able to return to Honduras believing that, other than having frequent checkups to be sure everything was fine, my cancer battle was over. So when a biopsy in October 2013 confirmed a diagnosis of stage four metastatic uterine cancer, I was shocked. I needed to stay in the U.S. indefinitely for treatment. The doctor explained that she could give me treatments to prolong my life, but that there was no cure. 

Suddenly everything seemed out of control. I had no idea if I would live for a few months or a few years, or if God would choose to heal me. I knew He could heal, but was that His will for me? Those verses from Proverbs took on new meaning as I realized God was giving me a new assignment. This is not one that I would have chosen, but it is one I am convinced He is trusting me with.

Transitioning back to the U.S. after living overseas for more than 30 years was a difficult task. Evidently I’d adapted to the Honduran culture much more than I had realized. The culture there is based on relationships, and I was used to having neighbors I would see and talk to every day. Here, I rarely see my neighbors, and I’ve had to work at it to get acquainted with some of them. I felt a real sense of loss. I missed my work, my church, and my missionary family. Also, not having my foster son, Toroni, with me was very hard. He had lived with me for more than 11 years, and I knew he missed his mama. Maybe almost as much as I missed him!

But during this time, God has shown me His love through the many people who, over the years, have not only become ministry partners, but friends. I’ve received many cards, phone calls, and emails assuring me of their prayers for me and my healing. I am encouraged knowing I am not in this battle by myself. Three of my siblings and their families live in the area, so I am blessed by their presence and support. Gifts of money to meet financial needs have arrived just when I’ve needed them. I am involved in the same church my siblings attend and enjoy fellowshipping with them—something I wasn’t able to do while on the mission field. I also volunteer one afternoon each week at our local Pregnancy Help Center, a ministry I really enjoy.

I’ve come to realize that I am right where God wants me at this time in my life. He has once again changed my place of residence and ministry, but He isn’t finished with me yet. I’m so thankful for the lessons He is teaching me each day. My faith is becoming stronger as I see Him meeting all my needs and those of my son in Honduras. I’m not sure what the future holds, but I know my life is in God’s very capable hands. I am trusting Him as He continues to direct my paths. 

ACT: Did God bring someone else to your mind as you read Karen’s testimony? Send them a note of encouragement, pray with them over the phone, or bless them with a financial gift to help with ongoing medical costs.

GIVE: Rising medical costs are a challenge to WGM’s self-funded medical plan. You can help provide medical coverage for  missionaries and staff with a financial gift. Make checks payable to World Gospel Mission with account #41090 on the memo line. Send check donations to World Gospel Mission, P.O. Box 948, Marion, Indiana  46952-0948.

An excerpt from...

Keys from Retirees

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Lessons from the trenches
By Rachel Elwood, Support Staff
April-June 2015

“Remember the days of old; consider the generations long past. Ask your father and he will tell you, your elders, and they will explain to you.”(Deuteronomy 32:7 NIV)

On this website, we’ve created a section called Heroes of the Faith to honor retired missionaries. As we’ve been gathering these stories over the last few years, we’ve stumbled across some wonderful words of wisdom from these incredible faith-filled men and women. Some of these saints have gone to be with the Lord since our conversations with them, and we’re thankful we had the chance to capture their stories.

Louisa Ammerman (1913-2011), served in Burundi: “Be willing to make the adjustments cheerfully and joyfully. Don’t be depressing or despondent. Try to see the best in everyone. Try to live in the right relationship always, both with others and with God.”

O. Carl Brown (1918-2010), served in Haiti with his wife, Martha: “Be in the Word and see where God’s heart is. When you go forth in the call, you’ll have a real love and desire to follow through. You’ll have continued enthusiasm about the Word. In doing so, God opens doors.”

Edna Dewey, 108, served in India with her late husband, Clifford: “Be sure you’re called [to missions]. Don’t go on your own. The work is hard enough that you need the Lord’s help constantly. There are disappointing times, but you pray through it, and get over it.”

Evelyn Harriman, 90, served in Bolivia and Paraguay with her husband, Harold: “A new missionary in Bolivia once asked me for some advice about adapting to the culture. I said, ‘Don’t speak English in front of Bolivians!’ You’ve got to love and respect them, and it’s not nice to speak a language they don’t understand in front of them. The land needs to become your land.”

Tim Hawk, 68, served in Honduras and at headquarters with his wife, Sharon: “From the very beginning, realize building relationships is the most important part of your ministry. Learn to invest yourself in people, not in busy work.”

Sue Martin, 74, served in Haiti and Haitian American Ministries: “Have a consistent devotional life. God is in control of what’s happening; be submissive to what He leads. Obedience—if you have that, you can adapt to any situation.”

Ellen Pfirman, 77, served in Burundi, on the American Indian Field, and in Kenya: “As a new missionary, I was as green as I could be. We had to trust the Lord through all the different circumstances, and I saw that He was faithful in all the problems we faced. He didn’t abandon us. The fact that we didn’t live in fear was a miracle.”

Paul Shingledecker, 68, served in Burundi and Haiti and at headquarters with his wife, Pat: “My prayer for every new missionary who came to Haiti or to one of our fields when we were regional directors was that within the first six months, and preferably within the first six weeks, they would find one close national friend. When that happened, it almost always changed their whole outlook on the culture, country, and language learning. All of a sudden the differences were no longer bad, just different! Deep national friendships make a missionary and nearly always assure his/her success.”

Caroline Heater Smith (1936-2014), served on the American Indian Field: “There are traits a person needs to be a missionary: getting up on time, going to bed at a decent time, learning to eat things you don’t want, having your devotions, and a sense of humor. Always be able to see the funny side of things.”

Mary Smith (1912-2010), served in Kenya and at headquarters with her late husband, “Hack”: “It’s the safest place in the world: being in the will of God. The most fulfilling life you can have is working for the Lord on the mission field or in His service.”

MORE: Want to hear the rest of these retired missionaries’ stories? View the Heroes of the Faith section.

The Jesus Place

An excerpt from...

The Jesus Place

By Nathan Waggoner, Missionary, Albania
October-December 2014

In 2013 our family began serving as World Gospel Mission missionaries in partnership with Planters Seed Foundation in the country of Albania. Our goal was to bolster the existing ministries of Planters and help plant an indigenous church in the village of Vlashaj.

Planters had already been working in Vlashaj when the door opened in 2001 for them to buy a house in the center of the village and renovate it into a ministry center for the community. Having a permanent presence in the village by way of the center announced that Planters was there to stay and was committed to being a part of this obscure village in central Albania. More than 600 Bible clubs later, our family is blessed to be reaping the years of investment as the Planters staff have sown the seeds of the gospel.

Recently, our colleague Genti was told, “Our son is always asking to go to the Jesus Place!”

When he later shared the conversation with me, I asked, “The Jesus Place?”

“Yes,” he said, “that is the name all the kids use for the ministry center!”

The Jesus Place. I can’t think of a better way for the ministry center to be known! That title didn’t come via a marketing campaign or even a sign on the building. It was given in response to the love of Jesus that has been demonstrated there throughout the years. As I thought about what it takes to create a Jesus Place, I was reminded of a quote by Dr. Steve Elliot from a recent WGM leadership retreat: “If you put love where there is none...then love is there.”

I believe that is how a ministry center becomes known as “The Jesus Place.” You put His love there!

Could that really be a way to begin the process of discipleship—making Jesus Places? As I have pondered this concept, I have had to ask myself, “Nathan, do others see you as a ‘Jesus Place,’ where they can come to find His love?”

The answer is simple: without the overflow of Christ’s love, No! I have absolutely nothing of value to give! I need personal Jesus Places in my own life so that I have His love to give to others. During our training to come to Albania, we were told, “When you go, they won’t just get the Message, they’ll get the missionary!” It is only the daily Jesus Places of time in His Word and prayer that give us the strength to live the message, not just speak it.

A weekly Jesus Place via a Sabbath rest has forced us to trust that God can accomplish through us in six days more than we could do ourselves in seven. Honestly, I don’t know what we would do without our Sabbath rest here in Albania. Sundays are the one day we don’t study a language or do office work (or even write articles for The Call). God uses the mental and physical rest of Sunday to propel us into the new week in His strength.

We have also sought to make a Jesus Place in our family. Family devotions help us re-focus on who we are in Christ and His call on our family. Cydil and I also realized that if we were to nurture and disciple our own kids, we needed to set aside intentional time with them, birthing what we affectionately call “Waggoner Wednesdays.” We spend Wednesday afternoons and evenings focusing on having fun as a family. It is less important what we do and more important that we do it together.

Jesus loves the people of Albania. He is at work here, and we are so blessed to be a part of what He is doing. As the church grows in the village of Vlashaj, we pray it won’t lose the nickname “The Jesus Place.” In Mark 6, Jesus’ own hometown rejected Him. The very place that had known Jesus the longest was the least open to His teachings and miracles. However, at the end of the chapter, Jesus returns to Gennesaret where He had recently been begged to leave, but this time they “immediately recognized him and ran about the whole region” bringing the sick to Him and “whoever touched him” was healed. That’s the kind of church we want Vlashaj to be—a place where Jesus is recognized instantly, the sick and hurting are always welcome and invited in, and healing is found for all who come to “touch Jesus.”

What about you? Where is your Jesus Place? Where do you experience the love of Christ? Could your family, work, community, or even you yourself use a Jesus Place? The good news is that anywhere can become a Jesus Place if you bring Christ’s love there!

ACT: Has your Jesus Place gotten a little dusty? Over the next month, be intentional about taking time to rest, study the Word, and pray. Create a pattern that can keep you growing in the love of Christ.

Thinking Outside the Church Walls

An excerpt from...

Thinking Outside the Church Walls

Women’s Ministry in Peru

By Cathlene Strong, Missionary, Peru, and Tracy Dubois, Support Staff
October-December 2014

In the States, people bond over coffee, but for women in Peru, their relationships are formed over tea. In 2008, Cathlene Strong and Ann Seaney (Bolivia) held a Christmas tea for the women in the church. This was followed by a Mother’s Day tea in May 2009.

“We desired to get the women together to be encouraged from God’s Word,” Cathlene shared.

After the Strongs and Ann returned from homeland ministry assignment in the fall of 2010, the ministry began to take shape. Now, about 10 women meet the third Sunday of each month at Cathlene’s home. Whether they are learning to make cookies, sharing parenting advice, praying for each other, or encouraging unbelievers to accept Jesus, trust is being earned.

“I see this ministry as a vital means of encouragement,” Cathlene stressed. “We try to discourage them from bringing their children so it can be a time of just women talking, fellowshipping, and learning together. We endeavor to create a safe environment where they can share their struggles. I feel inadequate and yet blessed to be God’s channel of encouragement as I listen to, hug, and pray with them.”

An ongoing goal is to get the women to think outside the church walls and minister to others. Christmas has been an ideal time for such outreach as the women spearheaded projects that included the youth and entire church. They held a clothing drive, donated small gifts, bought bread, prepared hot chocolate, and donated school supplies in a small community outside Cusco. They have also made and delivered Christmas baskets to needy families and handed out goodie bags to patients at two local clinics. Playing Christmas carols with handbells during the events also brings smiles to many faces.

“In the end, young and old participated, but it was the women who organized the events,” Cathlene said. “What a blessing to see the church work together to reach out to others.”

GO: Cathlene is organizing a retreat for her women’s group. If you’re interested in helping, contact teams@wgm.org.

Avoiding the Minefield: Understanding Others by Understanding Yourself

An excerpt from...
Avoiding the Minefield: Understanding Others by Understanding Yourself

By Rachel Elwood, Support Staff
July-September 2014

When someone does something that you feel should be done in a particular way, in a way that is different from your way, do you get stressed or angry? If so, your culture-based judgment system might be showing.

Culture. Values. Simply put, the way you do the things you do. The things that distinguish a Swede from a Kenyan from an Australian. It’s one thing to look at what makes us different from each other—how we act, how we dress, what we eat. It’s an entirely different thing to look at the roots of why. How did those values, whether you are aware of them or not, get formed?

According to Dr. Sheryl Silzer, author and missionary with Wycliffe Bible Translators, it all was formed in your childhood home. She recently came to WGM headquarters in Marion, Indiana, to speak to a large gathering of support staff and missionaries about this idea, called culture-based judgment systems. What formed your ideas of right and wrong, what you were disciplined for, your early experience with authority figures—these are the things that shape how you view the world today.

This concept is extremely important within missions work, because ministry teams are becoming increasingly multicultural. Cultures communicate differently, view authority and time differently—it can seem that a minefield of misunderstandings is just waiting to happen.

Fortunately, there’s grace.

“We can follow our own cultural way of doing things, or we can ask God’s help in transforming our cultural way to better reflect God’s heart for people,” said Dr. Silzer.

It starts with understanding ourselves. Once you get where you’re coming from, you can start to understand others. Laura Griffin, missionary to Honduras, shared, “My culture-based judgment system isn’t an excuse, but it gives me awareness that will help me avoid behavior that could hurt my ministry.”

As the missions community becomes more multicultural, this kind of understanding is key to removing obstacles that hinder our common goal: to spread the gospel to every man, woman, and child. In the midst of theoretical terms and case studies, we catch a glimpse of heaven; where there will be no more divisions or cultural faux pas, but when we can worship our Lord in harmony, our differences blending seamlessly into the fabric of the Church.

MORE: Purchase Dr. Sheryl Takagi Silzer’s book Biblical Multicultural Teams to learn more about the creative design of our respective cultures.

Preseident's Perspective: No One Can Do It Alone

An excerpt from ...

No One Can Do It Alone

By Hubert Harriman
January-March 2014

One of the most enduring memories of my growing-up years was mealtime. My mother was a great cook, but more important than the food was the family time. Here is where we shared stories, laughter, and tears. It was here where we prayed together. It was around the table where we knew we were not alone with the challenges of life—we had love, we had understanding, and we had support.

In many cultures, one of the strongest acts of acceptance, honor, and blessing is an invitation into a home for a meal. In the same way, the most powerful statement God ever made with His children was to invite us to put our feet under His table. It’s around the table where we know we are not alone with the challenges of life.

Ministry, bar none, is the most challenging work one will ever be involved in. No one can do it alone, and, not surprisingly, it’s in the sense of “aloneness” where ministries struggle. In relation to ministry, the greatest words of assurance Jesus ever spoke to His disciples were, “Lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age” (Matthew 28:20 NKJV). That truth has held many a lonely Christian worker through rough waters. 

In Christian community, we honor what each person brings to the table. For this reason, Community/Partnerships is one of WGM’s core values. We reach out to others in ministry and are grateful for those who reach out to us. This is common practice throughout the WGM ministry footprint these days. We will have it no other way.

Come and join us at this table of Christian workers. Here we will find love, understanding, and support. On this side of heaven, there is no greater fellowship than this.

ACT: This month invite someone in ministry to have dinner in your home. Take this time to encourage them in the ministry God has called them to.

MORE: Visit www.wgm.org/corevalues to view a complete list of WGM’s core values.

Getting Your Kids Involved in Missions

An excerpt from...

Getting Your Kids Involved in Missions

By Robyn Moore, Kenya
October-December 2013

1. How can your child help by praying? Imagine my delight when Elizabeth exclaimed while standing near my home at Tenwek Hospital, “I can’t believe I’m here; I’ve prayed for you and Tenwek all my life!” Elizabeth’s parents, Dawn and Wayne Smith, had made a photo album of many of us missionaries from our home church. Elizabeth prayed through that book often. The visual helped her “know” us and pray for us.
   
   ACT: Create your own family photo album of the missionaries your family is praying for.
   
2. How can your child help by giving? Giving is so important to teach children at a young age. When I was preparing to return to Kenya after homeland ministry assignment, my sister, Jan, brought her young son Jacen to me with a bag of 20 of his Hot Wheels cars for me to give little boys who were my patients at Tenwek. One little guy was still holding his car the next day when I went to take a picture to send to Jacen to thank him. Maybe you can’t send something, but it could be sold at a garage sale and the funds sent to help others. The Least of These ministry is blessed when children raise money for a peanut butter party or a pizza party that we bless orphans with. Only $25 to $50 creates a peanut butter party and $100 makes a pizza party!
   
   GIVE: Help throw a peanut butter party for kids in Kenya. Make a list of chores your kids can do to earn money toward a donation for a party. Send a check, payable to World Gospel Mission with account #21197—CALL on the memo line, to: World Gospel Mission, P.O. Box 948, Marion, IN 46952-0948.
   
3. How can your child help by doing? When I was on homeland ministry assignment and in grad school, my parents were not able to keep up with all the yard work. One Wednesday evening, Greg Miller and his son, Dexter, arrived at our home to mow the grass and trim around the trees. Greg told me, “I could have taken Dexter to church tonight to learn about sharing Jesus’ love and helping others, but I chose to bring him here and show him.”
   
   ACT: Who is near you that would be blessed by you and your child spending time with them or serving them?

The Deed is the Word

An excerpt from...

The Deed is the Word

By Brad Carter, Spain

July-September 2013

I recently read an article on LifeHacker.com called “How to Translate ‘I Wish I Could’ Into Actual Results.” This helpful article gives inspirational, practical methods and small steps to setting and achieving goals.

Wouldn’t it be wonderful if, as disciples of Christ, we would set goals and follow through in achieving them? What would happen if each of us prayerfully considered the direction in which God is leading us, made that our goal, and took steps in faith toward its fulfillment?

Sometimes I wonder if we have created a false dichotomy for ourselves: evangelism over here and justice over there. We want to “win souls,” walk someone through the “sinner’s prayer,” and “save people from burning in hell.” While this is a decent sentiment, it gives us the opportunity to set a goal for others and for God—but not for ourselves. 

So which goals are obtainable? Start by setting a goal you can achieve. How about getting to know your neighbor? As someone whose passion is getting to know immigrants, might I suggest investing in the lives of immigrants in your neighborhood? Help them practice their English or show them around town. A great way to get to know someone is to let them be the teacher and you be the learner. This goal will develop into a relationship. That relationship will transform into a friendship. Soon they will see how much you care, and they will want to know why. Your goal, your deed, becomes the evangelism. The deed is the word.

You can’t separate word and deed, evangelism and justice. If you do, you create a chasm that will leave you wishing “I could evangelize” but not doing much about it other than sitting in a pew on Sunday mornings.

Click more to read the LifeHacker.com article to help you set goals. You can do it!

Massage Therapy: helpful, healthy, heavenly service

An excerpt from...

Massage Therapy

By Tracy Dubois, Support Staff
July-September 2013

Stress. Trouble sleeping. Back pain. Depression. Headaches.

If you have any of these symptoms, read on to learn how massage therapy could be just what the doctor, and God, ordered.

Cheryl Nesselroade, daughter of World Gospel Mission retirees Dick and Barbara Barker (Japan) and ministry partner ofLaura Lea Sims (American Indian Field), is a massage therapist at Massage on Main in Wilmore, Kentucky. 

“Massage allows me to share Christ’s love in such a tangible way—through touch,” Cheryl began. “Public speaking is not my strong suit, so this profession is perfect for me. There are many people who are suffering and living through tremendous pain, and by showing concern and letting God work through me to bring someone relief, I believe that is sharing God’s love.”

Cheryl sometimes prays silently over her clients, asking God to bless and keep them in whatever circumstances they are going through. 

“Massage therapy has the unique ability to positively impact not only the physical, but the emotional and mental,” one of Cheryl’s regular clients explained. “As the body is worked, pain is relieved and tension is calmed. The negative emotions associated with the pain are replaced with positive ones. The therapist acts as a facilitator to focus awareness on the issues which are being addressed.”

Cheryl added: “Our bodies are agents and ambassadors for God. He commands us to ‘love one another as we love ourselves.’ We must take care of our body and soul in order to be fully available to care for others.”

While massage has many physical benefits—increased work productivity, fewer trips to the doctor, decreased pain, delayed surgeries, and general increased wellbeing—Cheryl believes these effects are spiritual as well. “I love to offer a service that is helpful, healthy, and heavenly.”

Does someone you know need a healing touch? Send them a gift certificate for a massage along with an encouraging note from you.

The Sparrow's Nest

An excerpt from...

The Sparrow's Nest

By Betsy Tejeda, Texas/Mexico Border Ministries
July-September 2013

As my husband, Gerson, and I were praying about a tangible way to show God’s love to the McAllen, Texas, community where we serve, the Lord planted a vision in my heart about a ministry to provide free gently used clothing for needy families. We believe that ministering to their physical needs will unlock the door of trust to minister to their spiritual needs.

Just a few months ago, our vision became a reality. We opened a clothes closet called The Sparrow’s Nest located at Taylor Community Center where families can “shop” for free food and clothes. 

When asked by the “shoppers” why our little shop is called The Sparrow’s Nest, we joyfully explain how much God loves each of us as demonstrated in Matthew 6. If He cares enough about the birds to feed them, isn’t He concerned about whether or not we have enough to feed our families? If He clothes the fields of grass with flowers, isn’t He concerned about clothing us? Are we not more precious than birds and grass? The answer is a resounding yes!

Do you need to be reminded of God’s love? Study in Scripture where love is mentioned alongside Jesus and journal about your findings. Are you encouraged that you can show that love to others?

The Discipline of Love

An excerpt from...

The Discipline of Love

Learning to reflect Christ’s character
By Rachel Elwood, Support Staff
July-September 2013

Most of us sane people would admit that something as strenuous as running 26.2 miles takes a certain measure of training. The body is just not naturally inclined to produce that kind of endurance quickly.

It’s the same with practicing the kind of sacrificial love modeled by Christ. There’s no question that we are called to love others, too. A gander through Matthew 25 reveals that distinguishing marks of believers include feeding the hungry, clothing the needy, and visiting the vulnerable. In Mark 21:31, Jesus emphasized the importance of loving and serving our neighbors as much as we would want the same for ourselves. Acts of service are not emphasized for their own sake, but they are to be done out of an attitude of love.

But our fallen nature means we are naturally inclined to be selfish. Without regularly committing to love others, we can easily fall into patterns of behavior toward others that are not Christ-honoring. Loving others as Christ intended takes practice and training.

Luke 2:52 gives us a great “training plan” as a place to start in the discipline of love: “Jesus grew in wisdom and in stature and in favor with God and all the people” (NLT).

We have those four areas in which we can show love: by sharing wisdom and by meeting physical, spiritual, and social needs. But who are we supposed to reach out to? Think about the three primary social circles we all live in: our families, our church or other fellow believers, and non-Christian “neighbors.” Plotted out on a matrix, this creates a nifty guide we can use to brainstorm small expressions of service and love we can do for each of these three groups of people in these four different ways.

Growing in the discipline of love takes commitment, willingness to be guided by the Holy Spirit, and creativity. But the repercussions of us becoming more intentional in loving others are huge! Think of how this world could change if we actually lived what we preached. So what are you waiting for?

Do you need to flex your service muscles? Fill out the Discipline of Love matrix with ideas to show your family, your friends, and your neighbors Christ’s sacrificial love.

Visit www.disciplenations.org to learn more about what God is doing through people who are committed to whole-person discipleship and reconciliation around the world.

Just a Bowl of Cereal

An excerpt from...

Just a Bowl of Cereal

By Chrissy Greenwell, Mexico
July-September 2013

Three years ago, Francisco moved to another town for work because, as a truck driver, he had found that no job was available for him in the city. His wife, Betty, and two daughters remained behind. Betty picked up odd jobs here and there, but making ends meet was difficult.

As the weeks went on, things took a turn for the worse. Francisco, a diabetic, started losing his vision. His truck flipped over and he was wounded; he ended up having an amputation. Betty was no longer able to work outside the home as she had to take care of her husband.

God placed it on my heart to send them a care package to help with some of their needs. I prayed over what I should get them. Over and over again, “cereal” came to mind. Whatever else would be included in that care package, a huge bag of cereal would be there! I gathered the items and left them at the church the following day. I had no idea of the impact this box of items would have on the family.

Weeks later, I chatted with Betty and asked how her daughter Rebeca was. Betty started to cry as she shared about their struggle. Rebeca had been angry, questioning God’s love. She asked her mom why God wouldn’t even allow her a bowl of cereal. Betty told her to pray about it and ask God for the cereal. That was the night I went shopping. The following day when they received the care package, Rebeca realized how much God loved her and that He always hears our prayers.

It’s those little things that make a difference; those seemingly insignificant acts that have a huge impact for the kingdom of God.

Is the Holy Spirit leading you to complete an act of love to make a huge impact for His kingdom? Ask the Lord to show you what you can do to help someone’s faith grow deeper.

Country Gal + City Kids = Love

An excerpt from...

Country Gal + City Kids = Love

By Peggy Bushong, Support Staff
July-September 2013

The Problem:
At a small church in my town, children were attending Thursday night services that the church depended heavily on help from college student volunteers. Most of those volunteers would soon be leaving for the summer. If the children’s activities on Thursday nights were suspended, these children probably wouldn’t hear much about Jesus over the summer. An appeal went out to other local churches for volunteers who would help keep the children’s ministry going.

The Response:
I work with Christians, go to church with Christians, and most of my friends and close family are Christians. I wanted to be able to share about Jesus with people who did not have a personal relationship with Christ. Here was my chance.

The Beginning:
I showed up at the church to volunteer. I was put with the younger children (pre-K through first grade), which suited me quite well. But having grown up in a pastor’s home in small towns and country settings, I had absolutely no “street smarts.” These kids had plenty.

The Battle:
As I got to know the children better, it was like we were living in parallel universes. In my world, the norm is three meals a day, a family unit of two parents and two to four children, boys and girls who sit quietly (mostly) in class, and parents who carefully monitor their children’s TV viewing and homework.

In their world, children may go hungry, may have as many as 10 or more siblings from various parents, are often starved for attention, may see pornography on TV in their home, and probably know someone in jail. 

The Inspiration:
Not long ago, I was discouraged about the ministry. The evil seemed so great, and I didn’t seem to be making an impact. Then I read a statement by a missionary woman. She wrote that while she was grieving the loss of a child, God had spoken to her, telling her He had not brought the children in her care to her to heal; He had brought them to her to love. And it was as if God was saying to me, “I did not bring these children to you to save; I brought them to you to love.”

I was encouraged, and I am grateful to be able to love these precious children and to point them to the One who can save them.

The Word and Deed:
Loving children in the name of Christ is loving God the Son and God the Father. Jesus models the way for us when He took the children in His arms and blessed them. This is best shared with us through Mark 10:14-16. Prayerfully read the Word. Now put your faith into action. Serve the children in your neighborhood this year. Whether you get involved with an organization like Youth for Christ or volunteer in the nursery at your church, share God’s love with a little one.

Hazel's Quilts

An excerpt from...

Hazel's Quilts

The Fabric of God’s Blessing
By Rachel Elwood, Support Staff
April-June 2013

“My ability to sew is God’s gift to me, and what I do with it is my gift back to Him.”

Hazel Dowden was blessed with an aptitude for sewing and has been active in using her talents ever since she was 12 years old. The mother of two and grandmother of five began making quilts when her grandchildren were born. As the children grew up, she began looking for other people to make quilts for, including shut-ins from church, people in nursing homes, newborns in hospitals, foster care children, and the police department where she lives in Plainfield, Indiana.

“Whoever God would put on my heart, I would make them a quilt,” Hazel said.

A few years ago, God began leading Hazel to explore giving her quilts to missions. She contacted Deb Cunningham, a staff member at WGM, to see if any WGM field could use the quilts. Deb’s response? “Oh yeah! We can use those!”

Today, Hazel’s quilts can be found all over the world: Kenya, Honduras, Indonesia, Haiti, and, of course, the USA. Right now, she’s working on a large number of quilts to take to the Africa Gospel Church Baby Center in Kenya. The Baby Center is a home for orphaned and abandoned babies, including those who are HIV positive. Hazel and her husband of 44 years, Ted, are looking forward to their first missions trip there this summer.

Hazel treasures the hours of labor, spending a lot of the time talking to God. “That’s when He gives me people to make quilts for,” she said. “I pray over the quilts as I make them. For example, when I give a quilt to a newlywed couple, I tell them, ‘When you have problems, and you will, realize that when you cover up with this quilt, prayer will cover you with His grace.’”

“I get a blessing when I make the quilts,” she said. “It’s all God’s time and it’s all His work.”

What gift has God given you that you can use to return the blessing? Take some time to consider how God can use your practical abilities for His glory.

Making a Wrong Turn

An excerpt from Making a Wrong Turn

The journey that led to healing
By Daniel Tolan, Special Assignment
October-December 2012

Samwel was a pastor. We met in the tuberculosis ward at Tenwek Hospital in Kenya. From the beginning, his condition was obvious: extensive tuberculosis (TB) due to his seeking care very late. Lab tests confirmed the diagnosis.

Concerned that he may have AIDS as well as TB, we suggested testing for HIV. Samwel said, “Of course, please test me. However, I am a pastor and I have no risk of being positive for HIV. My wife and I have been faithful to each other. We have two children, and she is pregnant right now with our third.”

His HIV test was positive.

Arap Lagat, the hospital’s HIV counselor, a trained pastor himself, talked with Samwel about the result.
Samwel said, “This is a mistake. I have never been with anyone but my wife, and she has never been with anyone other than me. You must have mixed up my blood with another person. Please, is it possible to repeat the test?”

It was repeated and was confirmed positive.


Samwel’s face clouded as he continued: “My brother and I are very close, and I visit him once per year and usually stay about 10 days.”

With his voice now hushed and frequently breaking, he told us about his secret life. “My brother and I have often traveled to the capital city seeking fun and excitement. We never meant it to become like this, but one thing led to another, and in the last few years, I have been with several prostitutes.” His voice now choking, “I am sure the tests are positive. In fact, I suspected so, and this is the real reason I have delayed seeking treatment.”
It was an effort for him to continue, “I am so scared. Truthfully, this is really why I did not want to go anywhere close to my home. I am known as a successful pastor, but I have been living a double life. I do not know if I can find forgiveness.”

Arap Lagat spoke, “Samwel, God is forgiving you right now. God the Father is wanting to make your relationship with Him right again.” God was right there. Although I could not see Him with my eyes, I knew His incredible presence was there with us.

Arap Lagat, Samwel, and I sat on his bed together in the presence of God. We talked, we cried, and we prayed together.


“Tomorrow, my wife comes from home,” Samwel told us. “She does not know anything about this. I want to tell her everything, but I cannot do it alone. Will the two of you be here to give me strength, please?” Arap Lagat answered for us both, “Yes, this is something we must do.”

The next morning came and I woke wondering what  his wife would say.

Beatrice arrived around mid-afternoon, and Arap Lagat came to the outpatient clinic for me. We found Beatrice sitting on her husband’s bed, holding his hands. She was beautiful and looked so radiant, as only pregnant mothers can look. He was obviously happy to see her. Love was on both faces.


Samwel confessed everything to his wife. He held nothing back. In a quiet voice, she asked questions and he answered. He told her about praying together and how he had found his peace with God just the day before.
She was still holding his hands.

How could she? I wondered. The thought came to me, How would I respond?

I heard Samwel’s voice again, “What I have done I cannot ask you to forgive. I know that. I do want you to know I am sorry, and I do want you to know I love you, our daughters, and our baby.” He was sobbing.
Beatrice finally let go of her husband’s hands. She had to in order to take him into her arms. What we heard next was and is one of the greatest moments of my life.

“Samwel, you are my husband. I love you. And, I do forgive you!”

Could it be those were the exact words Samwel’s spirit needed to hear? I think so. In less than 24 hours, Samwel was home with his heavenly Father.

Healed forever.

(Beatrice tested negative for HIV and TB. Their son was healthy.)