"...a pencil in His hand."

If you've tracked our journey at all over the past couple of months (years?) I hope you have caught glimpses of the transformation that God continues to do in and through English Fellowship Church. A significant part of that has come through the ebb and flow of life in an exceedingly transient community.
As we have tried to share over the past few years, many of the mission agencies that had deep and historic roots in this community have been recasting their visions for other parts of the world. That has increased the flow through the "traditional revolving door" in the community... and has led to a lot of heart-wrenching "good-byes." At the same time, there is still more than a "remnant" of that missionary core and reaching into/nurturing their hearts and minds continues to be one of our most unique privileges/responsibilities. A huge part of our role as a church is lived out as we seek to "feed and care for" a wide array of people that are involved in some extraordinary ministries throughout the week.
I was reminded of that in a very individual and personal way on Monday morning when I received a very unexpected email from a friend and fellow missionary. He has been enduring some intense and extended strain in his home and as hard as it has been to watch from the outside I cannot fathom what it might be like on the inside. I cannot describe what went on inside of me as I read his email...which included, in part: "I just wanted to say that the Holy Spirit touched (his wife) today in the service. We had a great time of crying forgiveness and open conversation after church . We hugged and she said that she loved me it was the best hug and kiss that I have had in several months. It was one of those hugs that you could tell it was from the heart. God is in control, Praise God. Please continue praying for us because I know the devil will be attacking again."
That is a humbling example of the way God has seen fit to use us over the years to contribute to many of the ministries that extend across the country. Ironically, one of the last things I mentioned in Sunday's message was a quote from Mother Theresa who once said, “I don't claim anything of the work. It is His work. I am like a little pencil in his hand. That is all.” Isn't that a great statement?

With that, I wanted to pass along an opportunity for you to get a closer look at one ministry in particular. The couple that God stirred to come and launch it arrived about the same time I did (1990). Over the years we have had the privilege of supporting them personally and corporately as a church...as well as serving as a "spiritual triage center" for many of their short and long-term missionaries. By God's grace, the founder of that ministry has also become one of our most cherished elders. I had the privilege of going back into a recording studio (after more than just a couple of years!) to provide the narration for their latest video (I think/hope I've learned enough to attach it here! I hope it gives at least a small glimpse into another example of the ministries that God allows us to walk closely beside.)

On the Potter's wheel (Jer. 18),
Len