It has taken me many years to have a more heavenly perspective on money. I am still in process on this. I have always had a level of gladness to be able to give. But I grew up with a very limited understanding of money management and seeing money as a tool. I have struggled with poor attitudes about resources. It is a balanced perspective indicated in Scripture. There is great wisdom in planning and saving. The worth of investment and risk is Biblical. On the other hand, a willingness to share and give freely is also valued. Thus, it may be seen as a balanced or diverse outlook toward money.
Considering these principles, money really is regarded as a tool or resource in the Bible. People understandably esteem it as security and place it above other priorities. It is a major and "delicate" issue for most of us. We all know of the saying, "the love of money is the root of all kinds of evil" (1 Timothy 6:10). When we are able to get beyond the struggle of loving money--which is a process, we can get to a place of just enjoying giving. It usually takes time and practice. To get started in this, it may hurt. You may realize you are going to have to override selfishness...again and again.
If you want to be a giver, it will be a great joy. There is something very good about blessing people. I am still on the learning curve, but I am so thankful for what God has taught me. This past weekend, the girls had a lemonade stand. A couple pulled up in a pickup truck with two kayaks in the back. The girls were charging 25 cents a cup. This guy gave them a 20-dollar bill and told them to keep the change. Jenn told him he didn't have to do that, but he insisted. This act of generosity surprised me and made me think about giving. Much more could be said about the matter, but it really is a way of getting someone's attention and saying, "I care." And that is a way of loving your neighbor as yourself.
Thursday, July 14, 2016
Alaska 2016 - This Time It Was Personal
I had a different and unique experience on this mission trip. Having had some time to reflect on the week and to have a little perspective with real life back in front of me, God's blessing and beauty in individual lives rises up as a foremost effect in this team of people. We certainly did work, and we had an amazing team with skills and a good work ethic. We accomplished a lot around the property. Yet in the testimonies I have heard since the trip, God was up to showing each of us His love and desire to change and even wow us.
Without doubt, we accomplished our goal of preparing Redemption for fish camp, and we blessed Rod and Teresa. I am so thankful for that. Above that, however, were amazing testimonies of redemption, healing, and extravagant blessing. Kim speaks of gaining ground over fear. Melanie was drawn fully in to God's arms after some difficult trials in life. Two people were baptized. Jennifer was given a precious time of rest she desperately needed. Andy realized on the trip God was allowing him to check off a "bucket list" item by seeing volcanoes on the Ring of Fire. For me, it was a time of redemption, as my dad was a part of the team. In many ways, it is a miracle we could have this time together (and I don't say that lightly). It is simply the mercy and provision of God. For others, it was a special time with family.
While there are personal themes like this on most mission trips, the personal nature of these stories stands out to me. It was a time of abundance and rejuvenation. We were surrounded by overwhelming beauty, we enjoyed rich fellowship, we laughed a lot, we heard amazing stories, we worked hard, and we felt God's love. Commit to a short-term mission trip if you can. Start saving and trust Jesus for the provision. You won't be disappointed. It won't be easy, but it probably will change your life.
Note: I will follow this blog up with a second response that details our work in Alaska and the progress of North of Hope.
Without doubt, we accomplished our goal of preparing Redemption for fish camp, and we blessed Rod and Teresa. I am so thankful for that. Above that, however, were amazing testimonies of redemption, healing, and extravagant blessing. Kim speaks of gaining ground over fear. Melanie was drawn fully in to God's arms after some difficult trials in life. Two people were baptized. Jennifer was given a precious time of rest she desperately needed. Andy realized on the trip God was allowing him to check off a "bucket list" item by seeing volcanoes on the Ring of Fire. For me, it was a time of redemption, as my dad was a part of the team. In many ways, it is a miracle we could have this time together (and I don't say that lightly). It is simply the mercy and provision of God. For others, it was a special time with family.
While there are personal themes like this on most mission trips, the personal nature of these stories stands out to me. It was a time of abundance and rejuvenation. We were surrounded by overwhelming beauty, we enjoyed rich fellowship, we laughed a lot, we heard amazing stories, we worked hard, and we felt God's love. Commit to a short-term mission trip if you can. Start saving and trust Jesus for the provision. You won't be disappointed. It won't be easy, but it probably will change your life.
Note: I will follow this blog up with a second response that details our work in Alaska and the progress of North of Hope.
Monday, June 20, 2016
Alaska 2016 - Reflections on Past Missions Experiences
It is now less than a week from our departure to Alaska. This week, we will be packing and making final arrangements. As I imagine this year's experience and the beauty of Alaska, I also think of other missions experiences of which I am aware. A group from Riverview Baptist Church is in Cleveland now. A large group from the same church is headed to Guatemala this summer. Other missionaries are headed to Brazil for the Olympics.
Similarly, I ponder an opportunity I considered years ago. My wife and I drove to Newark, New Jersey, to consider being part of inner-city ministry there. At some point, I became aware of World Impact, a ministry devoted to the urban populace, particularly the poor. Since God showed me an understanding of inner-city life and related socioeconomic realities, I had an interest in inner-city ministry. We began to support World Impact financially. Later, we decided to check into an opportunity to serve in Newark. It did not work out.
Nevertheless, I value people who make significant sacrifices to reach people, whether that is in Alaska, Los Angeles, or Newark. While we eagerly anticipate an exciting opportunity on the Kenai Peninsula of Alaska, I remember our visit to Newark. I appreciate all who serve in urban or cross-cultural missions. Your devotion and sacrifice is making an eternal difference!
Similarly, I ponder an opportunity I considered years ago. My wife and I drove to Newark, New Jersey, to consider being part of inner-city ministry there. At some point, I became aware of World Impact, a ministry devoted to the urban populace, particularly the poor. Since God showed me an understanding of inner-city life and related socioeconomic realities, I had an interest in inner-city ministry. We began to support World Impact financially. Later, we decided to check into an opportunity to serve in Newark. It did not work out.
Nevertheless, I value people who make significant sacrifices to reach people, whether that is in Alaska, Los Angeles, or Newark. While we eagerly anticipate an exciting opportunity on the Kenai Peninsula of Alaska, I remember our visit to Newark. I appreciate all who serve in urban or cross-cultural missions. Your devotion and sacrifice is making an eternal difference!
Sunday, May 22, 2016
Alaska 2016 - 2nd Update
We are about a month away from departure, and last night we had an orientation meeting. It was a chance for members to meet each other, go over travel information, and briefly discuss projects. We had pizza, prayed, and discussed different aspects of the trip. I believe we have a good team, and our work is important.
We will be making final preparations for fish camp. Pastor Will indicated that last year more than 1000 pounds of salmon and approximately 2000 pounds of halibut were processed there. The meaningful effects of fish camp are chiefly two: helping folks catch and process fish and building relationships with them in a camp-like setting. This has led to opportunities to speak about Jesus. Pastor Will indicated through Rod that a very significant part of fish camp is time spent after a long day around a fire pit talking and singing. It allows for ministry through relationship.
Fish camp begins July 5. We will be there the week prior to that. Our team has the maintenance/construction/production experience and guidance we need for our projects. Some of the work items include the following: installing soffit, exterior painting, spreading gravel, putting in a couple windows, beginning build out of a mobile kitchen, making wooden toys for an outreach in Anchorage, placing "blocks" or something on rafters, and others. The list may change slightly.
We will experience a beautiful part of Alaska. While it won't be Virginia summer weather, we are prayerful for a few sunny days. We have seen quite a few pictures of sunsets behind Mt. Redoubt. I look forward to that. We will be prepared for cool, wet conditions as we work. There will be a leisure day, but there aren't specific plans for that, yet.
For those of you who have supported us by donations or buying gift baskets, thank you so much. Our trip is paid for. You have been very generous. We want to give you the opportunity to see what we are doing. I may put one more update here before we leave on June 24. We will try to offer brief updates on Facebook while we are there. That depends on cellular service availability. If there aren't Facebook updates, then it will be because of limited cellular service. Following the trip, I will again provide a report or two here about the trip. We are one of more than 10 teams supporting North of Hope projects in Alaska this summer. You can see other pictures and updates on the North of Hope Facebook page. Thank you again for your support.
We will be making final preparations for fish camp. Pastor Will indicated that last year more than 1000 pounds of salmon and approximately 2000 pounds of halibut were processed there. The meaningful effects of fish camp are chiefly two: helping folks catch and process fish and building relationships with them in a camp-like setting. This has led to opportunities to speak about Jesus. Pastor Will indicated through Rod that a very significant part of fish camp is time spent after a long day around a fire pit talking and singing. It allows for ministry through relationship.
Fish camp begins July 5. We will be there the week prior to that. Our team has the maintenance/construction/production experience and guidance we need for our projects. Some of the work items include the following: installing soffit, exterior painting, spreading gravel, putting in a couple windows, beginning build out of a mobile kitchen, making wooden toys for an outreach in Anchorage, placing "blocks" or something on rafters, and others. The list may change slightly.
We will experience a beautiful part of Alaska. While it won't be Virginia summer weather, we are prayerful for a few sunny days. We have seen quite a few pictures of sunsets behind Mt. Redoubt. I look forward to that. We will be prepared for cool, wet conditions as we work. There will be a leisure day, but there aren't specific plans for that, yet.
For those of you who have supported us by donations or buying gift baskets, thank you so much. Our trip is paid for. You have been very generous. We want to give you the opportunity to see what we are doing. I may put one more update here before we leave on June 24. We will try to offer brief updates on Facebook while we are there. That depends on cellular service availability. If there aren't Facebook updates, then it will be because of limited cellular service. Following the trip, I will again provide a report or two here about the trip. We are one of more than 10 teams supporting North of Hope projects in Alaska this summer. You can see other pictures and updates on the North of Hope Facebook page. Thank you again for your support.
Monday, May 2, 2016
Alaska 2016 - 1st Update
As of May 2, I am thankful to report that we have provided, earned, or been given just over $2400 toward the total trip cost. We are very close to paying for our amount owed. While this does not include some extra costs such as baggage fees and food for travel days, we have been amazed at the provision. Again, we thank each of you who have donated. Also, thanks to those who bought gift baskets and those who will be praying for us and the team.
We will have a team meeting later this month. This will be a good time of fellowship and getting a little more information about the work we will be doing. I think we all are aware of the special opportunity we have. To be able to do missionary work in a location of tremendous beauty is a treat. This will be my third such opportunity to serve people on the Kenai Peninsula, and I am so appreciative and humbled by the opportunity. May God amplify our impact and grow us spiritually!
We will have a team meeting later this month. This will be a good time of fellowship and getting a little more information about the work we will be doing. I think we all are aware of the special opportunity we have. To be able to do missionary work in a location of tremendous beauty is a treat. This will be my third such opportunity to serve people on the Kenai Peninsula, and I am so appreciative and humbled by the opportunity. May God amplify our impact and grow us spiritually!
Monday, April 11, 2016
Alaska Preview - 2016
I am so excited to have the opportunity to return to Alaska to serve people there. The beauty of the land is almost beyond description. With the popularity and proliferation of various television shows about life in Alaska, many people now know life there has numerous unique challenges. In two previous trips to Seward, Alaska, we had the opportunity to help Seward City Church prepare a building. In doing so, we met and partnered with local people who welcomed us and shared with us. It was memorable, and we know God was giving us an opportunity to sow into the community. Thus, it is a blessing and joy to get to know some of the people. Further, it is an honor to try to help them.
This year, we will be on a different part of the Kenai Peninsula near Homer. We will be very close to Anchor Point. Our team from The Bridge church in Christiansburg continues to partner with North of Hope and Rod and Teresa Koop. Other teams from the "lower 48" will be working on other projects this year. Much work has been done on Prince of Wales island. On the Kenai Peninsula, we will be supporting an outreach with which the Koops are personally involved in their community. It has been called the Redemption Fish Camp. The outreach in July helps those who need assistance catching and processing salmon during the salmon runs. We will be doing final projects and finishing touches for this year's fish camp.
In addition to that, we will be talking to people involved in a church plant in Homer. This will be an opportunity to discuss ideas about the different aspects of ministry in a local church. I don't know very much about this yet, but I am looking forward to it. Church planting is very challenging but exciting.
This is the third time in four years The Bridge will be sending a team. It is good continue this partnership. I consider it a privilege and special opportunity to see such awe-inspiring natural beauty that is Alaska and, in addition to that, serve the people of Alaska. I am thankful my wife and father are planning to be part of the team. This theme of family is repeated with other team members. It is a great possibility of missions. I will be posting additional blogs about this upcoming trip (June 24 - July 2). I likely will provide one more update before we leave. I will follow up with one or more blogs after we return, as well.
This year, we will be on a different part of the Kenai Peninsula near Homer. We will be very close to Anchor Point. Our team from The Bridge church in Christiansburg continues to partner with North of Hope and Rod and Teresa Koop. Other teams from the "lower 48" will be working on other projects this year. Much work has been done on Prince of Wales island. On the Kenai Peninsula, we will be supporting an outreach with which the Koops are personally involved in their community. It has been called the Redemption Fish Camp. The outreach in July helps those who need assistance catching and processing salmon during the salmon runs. We will be doing final projects and finishing touches for this year's fish camp.
In addition to that, we will be talking to people involved in a church plant in Homer. This will be an opportunity to discuss ideas about the different aspects of ministry in a local church. I don't know very much about this yet, but I am looking forward to it. Church planting is very challenging but exciting.
This is the third time in four years The Bridge will be sending a team. It is good continue this partnership. I consider it a privilege and special opportunity to see such awe-inspiring natural beauty that is Alaska and, in addition to that, serve the people of Alaska. I am thankful my wife and father are planning to be part of the team. This theme of family is repeated with other team members. It is a great possibility of missions. I will be posting additional blogs about this upcoming trip (June 24 - July 2). I likely will provide one more update before we leave. I will follow up with one or more blogs after we return, as well.
Baptism
We had an inspiring and emotional baptism service yesterday. More than ten people were baptized in the Sunday service. This was truly moving, a time more impacting than I would have expected. It was a great way to follow the Easter service of two weeks ago. The baptisms revealed the sincere beliefs of these people; it represented a commitment and acceptance of the mercy and grace offered by Jesus Christ.
I extend these thoughts not because I want to enter into a discussion about the meaning and history of baptism. Obviously, the act is important--foundational--since there was a John the Baptist who baptized Jesus before his public ministry. The effect for me yesterday regarded the individual's willingness to be immersed publicly, emerging soaked and chilled, and desiring to move ahead spiritually with God. It is, simply, obedience. And it is trust. There was a singular focus on doing what God directed them to do.
Each person has a unique story. There was a range in ages and life experiences. The commonality was the arrival at a point of acknowledgment. It is a public act. It is mostly done among those who love and support them, yet it is such an individual moment. I really enjoyed seeing these baptisms, but I was mostly caught by the power of God in this unique symbolic act.
I extend these thoughts not because I want to enter into a discussion about the meaning and history of baptism. Obviously, the act is important--foundational--since there was a John the Baptist who baptized Jesus before his public ministry. The effect for me yesterday regarded the individual's willingness to be immersed publicly, emerging soaked and chilled, and desiring to move ahead spiritually with God. It is, simply, obedience. And it is trust. There was a singular focus on doing what God directed them to do.
Each person has a unique story. There was a range in ages and life experiences. The commonality was the arrival at a point of acknowledgment. It is a public act. It is mostly done among those who love and support them, yet it is such an individual moment. I really enjoyed seeing these baptisms, but I was mostly caught by the power of God in this unique symbolic act.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)