Sorry I haven't posted anything on this website in quite some time. In fact, I have been considering canceling this site and using only my blogspot as it is far easier to use and is free. Please let me know if you prefer this site want it to continue. If there are enough people who use visit this site find it as useful or more useful than that at www.dieuspampillon.blogspot.com/ I will continue to post updates here as well. Thank you and please visit the aforementioned site for my most recent posts !
1.7.09
One whole week I have been back in France and it's as though I never left... kinda like when I was Stateside. And really it was. Things rolled along smoothly thanks to God and I was able to see my family (most notably my 8m old niece Mya), attend my grandparents 60th anniversary in Kansas, see all the relatives there, hang out with my cousin Klarissa and aunt Denise when they were in Summit visiting, go to Denver and spend time with college friends Nathan and Carla Anderson, Kristin Dwyer, my WorldVenture friend with whom I went through orientation, Sam Kunnemann, another great college friend, reconnect with my home church family of Rocky Mountain Bible Church, and see various other friends in Summit County. I also got a dentist check up thanks to Tia's boss, Jill Castline ! I almost got away with a perfect check-up. It was all very much a blessing !!! Although I was ready to come back to France it was sad to leave everyone behind... especially my niece Mya who will be so different when I see her in one year. I almost shed some tears saying goodbye to that cute face and cheeks I love to kiss. Over here in Lognes, France I have not been doing too much besides running, working out, helping the Finley's pack, watch movies and enjoying the friendships I've formed here. It has honestly been hard for me to do practically nothing since the third week in May. I'm someone who needs activity. But God has made me realize that He created this time and therefore I likely need it. So I'm trying to be satisfied and enjoy it. Next week will have more activity as we pack up Jonathan's moving container and I help drive extra stuff to the port in La Havre. To be honest j'ai un peu peur (I'm a little scared). :/ It'll be my first time driving here and although the laws are quite similar there are little quirks. It will certainly be an adventure, haha !
When I arrive back home by train I will have just over a week before I leave for camp in Haute-Savioe (SE, France). I am very excited for this ! God willing I can remain down there through the end of August. The only thing that would require me coming home early is if I cannot get the renewal process for my Visa rolling. The deadline date is August 28th. So currently I am trying to get all the necassary (and unnecessary) papers in order. I can go there with everything that's listed as needed and be asked for additional info.
If you would like to take a look at Camp des Cimes go to: http://www.campdescimes.net/presentation.php Thanks for your prayers !!!
Prayer Requests: 1. Visa renewal process rolling before I leave for camp 2. Preparation for camp 3. Enjoyment and good use of my free time before camp 4. Preparation for my internship
Praises: 1. Safe travels during my vacation to the States 2. Friends and family seen in the States 3. My wonderful home church Rocky Mountain Bible Church 4. Opportunity to serve at Camp des Cimes 5. The French I can speak
10.6.09
I've now been back in the States a little more than a week and it has been great. However there was a little wanting during day one. It was snowing in the county ! Mom's cooking is as good as ever and I have really enjoyed seeing family and friends. But the best, most precious thing has been my niece Mya who now has a little over 7 months. My second day here I took care of her all alone and we had a great time ! In fact, I've been the babysitting several days and what a blessing !
Sunday evening I was given the opportunity to update my local church family at Rocky Mountain Bible Church. Summarizing nine months in 15 minutes was very hard but I did it... with many English grammatical mistakes, haha. The right words just weren't coming to my mind.
Saturday some college friends of mine, Nathan and Carla Andreson, and a friend from WorldVenture, Kristin Dwyer, hung out in Denver for the sidewalk chalk art show. That was a great time catching up with friends... and I got to speak French ! Later on in the break I hope to go down to Colorado Springs and whitewater raft with Sam Kunnemann.
Prayer Requests: 1. Rejuvenation during the break 2. Refreshment of relationships stateside 3. Preparation for camp (beginning July 19th) 4. Preparation for my internship in the Fall 5. To lose more of myself everyday and be more consumed in God and with His glory
Praises: 1. Friends and family 2. The financial support which I currenlty have 3. The opportunity and ability to visit the States during my internship 4. The power of God 5. God's work in France 6. I had the money to replace my Palm Pilot (aka my life and brain)
29.5.09
In light of this time of financially difficulty, I would like to take this post to specifically thank those who support me either financially and/or by prayer. Only by the obedience of God's children in giving and praying are we in ministry, and specifically we missionaries, able to commit our full and undivided attention to the spread of the gospel and the strengthening of the body of Christ. I know that I can speak for all of us by saying that it is hard to find the words to express the depth and the width of our gratitude. This is where God wants me, this is my passion, and your obedience has made it possible for me to do what I was called to do!
For those who have stopped giving financially I want to say thank you for what you have given and ask that your prayers on my behalf would never cease. What God desires is of utmost importance and I would never wish that one give financially where God has not specified. Just as you prayed to give and began in faithfulness to God's will, so you have prayed and stopped in faithfulness to His will. The peace of the God Who created all things and controls all things be with you as you continue in the straight and narrow. May He bless you and keep you and may His face shine upon you.
10.5.09
Two car loads and I was moved into my new place and left the church family that I have grown attached to :( However I take this feeling as a good piece of news as well because it tells me that I have some semblance of a life over here- that is, I'm not just a passer through but a resident and participant in people's life and the culture. This is becoming home! I also would like to thank my roommates Harry and Manu who have been so patient and understanding and welcoming of the foreigner. I have learned so much from them and look forward to continued friendships.
With only two weeks of school remaining I am gearing up for my final exams: 22nd- oral exam and 23rd- written exam. Although most of what we've learned this semester are the nuances, exceptions etc. of grammaire I am still nervous for the exam as it is hard to remember everything and keep it in order at the same time. Additionally, the oral exam will be harder as the pieces of literature are more complicated and less up front. I am going to shoot for a 14-16/20, which over here is a very good grade (not the same grading system here- the percentages don't have the same connotations).
Elsewhere, Jonathan, my "boss" or the guy who is in charge or my internship, is moving to Denver with his family in order to be an intern for Hans Finzel and seek additional support. Currently they are very much under supported. God is awesome and his wife Karen, who is a teacher here in France, found a position at Denver International School. Therefore Jeremiah Martin, another missionary with WorldVenture and a former OIKOS intern, will be in charge of my internship.
Prayer Request: 1. Compare my language progress to where I've come from and not against that of my classmates 2. Diligence and faithfulness in preparation for my final exams (two intensive (5hrs/day) semesters of French is very wearing 3. Preparation for my internship in the Val d'Europe church plant 4. Lk. 9:23 5. A relaxing vacation time in the States
Praises: 1. Understanding, patient and hospitable roommates Harry and Manu 2. The formation of a life here in France 3. God's perfect plan and power to execute it 4. Opportunity to take one year of French at the Sorbonne 5. Chance to visit family in friends Stateside in June
5.4.09
Salut à tous ! I hope all is well wherever this finds you!
Let me fill you in on what's happened since my last post. The month of March went by so quickly even though there's not much to report. It was my regular routine of classes every week day and resting from travel on the weekends. So far I haven't learned many new pieces of grammaire or new phonetique sounds. Rather it seems to me that at this level one is learning the nuances and exceptions (there are many many exceptions in French) of the language and tweaking any bad habits and correcting misunderstandings. This has been very good for me as many of my mistakes are fairly minor ones such as according a verb to its pluriel, feminin counterpart. It's been great because I have noted a change in my grades and in my dictations. The probleme I am running into at the moment is incoporating everything I have learned as I speak and speaking with fluidity.
In other news I will be moving into the OIKOS house (the house where most OIKOS interns reside) come May as it will be simpler to move at that time than in the summer when Jonathan will be in Africa, I will be working at a camp and will visit the states. While I will no longer have two French roommates and live in such close proximity to a church (just below me) the move will put me closer to a RER (train) station and to my director Jonathan. It has been a great experience living at this location!
Come next week I will be on Easter vacation for nearly three weeks! What will I do? As I am saving for a plane ticket to visit the states, and please be praying for a good price (God willing), I will stay here in Paris and try to visit some sites I have not yet had the opportunity to see. Perhaps the book I just bought "Paris 0 Euro" has some suggestions. I certainly plan on taking advantage of the beautiful spring weather. It's been 12-18 (53-64) the past few weeks. I certainly am not missing the feet of snow that Breckenridge has received in that time :)
I forgot to take pictures, as usual, but last night I had friends (from the college Bible study I attend in Paris) over to cook and play some games. It was a blast! We had potatoe and leek soup with chicken cooked in a white bacamel beer sauce and three different deserts!
Prayer Requests: 1. Lk. 9:24 2. Ability to incorporate all that I am learning 3. Fluidity in speaking 4. Nearness to God 5. Make the most of my two years here
Praises: 1. That God has enabled me to survive the 3-6 months in a new culutre (generally the hardest) 2. The ability to communicate in French 3. The friends I have made over here 4. The opportunity to visit my family (especially my niece Mya) in June 5. My health 6. God's faithfulness in all things 7. The college Bible study in Paris (GBU)
6.3.09
"Whoever wants to come after me (Jesus) must deny himself, take up his cross and follow me" Luke 9:23.
Hello. First of all please let me apologize for the extremely late update letter some of you may have received. My brother-in-law and sister have kindly taken over the printing, sending etc. of my mailing and have been very busy the last several months. The next one should arrive in a more timely manner.
What have I been up to since my break? Well thanks to God's grace, all of your prayers and some studying I passed my final exam for last semester!!! THANK YOU EVERYONE!!! My note was a 14.5/20 which in the French system is a great grade. Getting a 16 or over is very, very good and there is no such thing as a straight 20 student. So I have now been in Advanced Intensive since the beginning of February and it is going well. Thus far it has been review which has been good so that those foundations are reinforced before moving on. It's always fun getting a new class dynamic and this semester is no exception. I have one friend from last semester and the other classmates are great!
As for the language itself it is coming along. I can communicate halfway clearly and thanks to a French friend I am getting help once a week with questions and problem areas. In fact two weeks ago I lead (or more precisely stumbled through) a college Bible study I have been attending in Paris since the end of my break. While it was incredibly intimidating God used this less than common clay pot to get His point across. Praise God! There's still a long way to good but progress is being made.
Ministry wise I still am not regularly leading anything but I have had several opportunities to share the gospel, during Easter Break I am helping with a children's program and am now on security detail for the church. One sad piece of news is that due to the date of my final exam this semester I will not be able to go on a missions trip to Senegal with Jonathan Finley (the missionary under whom I work). Perhaps next summer God will open this door.
Spiritually things have been going much better. I feel halfway comfortable and settled into a routine. The underlying stress still exists but now it's not so intense and therefore more bearable. Furthermore being in a routine has been great for my relationship with Christ and that is the main reason things have been on the up and up.
Praises: 1. I PASSED MY FINAL EXAM!!! 2. Groupe Biblique Univarsitaire and the friends I have made there 3. My French tutor 4. Full support (at a time when many missionaries are very much under supported) 5. Those who pray for me 6. The new class 7. Opportunity to visit my family in June for a couple weeks
Prayer Requests: 1. Luke 9:23 2. Diligence in my studies (especially watching more tv for hearing comprehension) 3. Open eyes and heart as to how God wants to use me 4. Not to become dull to living and working for God in France 5. Preparation for my visit home
28.1.09
The previous week was a nice respite from classes and from traveling elsewhere. For my other two breaks I was out of country and/or the Paris area. I slept in, stayed home, chilled out and have spent some great long mornings with the Lord. But I also wanted to utilize the time to see some sites that I have not yet had the opportunity to enjoy.
So Thursday I went to the Louvre and spent a good long while in the exhibit of Mesopotamia. It was really cool to see artifacts from bible times and ponder on Scripture and acts of God during that time! Of course I also checked out other sections such as paintings and sculptures.
Friday I meant to go to the aquarium but instead went to see covered roads in Paris with some friends. That night I was invited to a friends for a soiree and we played games and hung out. Sunday a friend invited me to hear him preach at a church in Paris- the first Baptist church in Paris. That was a cool experience and afterward he invited me to his place for a Brazilian meal. I am always in for a free meal and a home cooked international meal at that! We had a great time of fellowship.
Please continue to pray for a good grade on my exam, preparation for the next semester (God willing advanced) and faithfulness in reviewing last semester's subject material during my break. Luke 9:23 says, "Then Jesus said, "If anyone wishes to follow me, he must deny himself, take up his cross daily and follow me." Thanks!
20.1.09
Last week was very busy and very nerve racking. The entire week we studied old exams and reviewed what we had learned. I studied so much. Then came Saturday, the day of my written exam.
That mourning I ate a big omelet with avocados, tomatoes, broccoli, Emmental cheese, mushrooms and sausage and had a nice café au lait of Starbucks Christmas blend. I took the metro to the southern part of Paris where the testing center stands. Now the word "center" really gives an accurate idea of this place. It is essentially a machine that facilitates testing en mass. There are four buildings with over seven stories. On each level there is one exam room. Each room holds 100 or more students and they were probably utilizing 4-5 stories in each building. My room was not entirely full, perhaps 70-80 students so I suspect that the others rooms were likely similar. Nevertheless, it was crazy!
Knowing that I do not do well under pressure and that grammaire is not a good subject for me really had me worried. To be honest, I should have begun praying for the exam further in advance. Thanks to all who had been and are praying for the exams! We had three hours, 9-11, to finish the exam. It consisted of a grammaire section, reading and comprehension, vocabulary, listening and comprehension and finally a written section. When I received the exam I almost went blank :S Thanks to God and your prayers I was able to compose myself and work through the exercises and get them all done with sufficient time to review my answers several times!
Yesterday I had my oral exam at the same building where I attended all semester so the familiar place was nice. This exam I did not study for as much. Grammaire is the most important. For the oral exam we had ten texts available that we had read and reviewed during the semester. We studied their vocabulary, dissected the text and discovered the themes and major points. Of those ten we picked one randomly and had ten minutes to prepare it according to the question, "Explain the text," and a more personal question as to what we thought about the it. I received "Le Petit Jardin." After our preparation we went to the front of the class and spoke on the questions. That's it.
In all I would say that the exams were, "pas mal"- not bad. We will see how it turned out. I am neither confident nor diffident. So I am praying very very much that I will pass into the advanced level God willing and be prepared enough for that level.
1.12..09
Thank you all for your prayers and support! I can't tell you how much it all means to me... especially the prayers!
My vacation was great!!! I spent the first week in Alsace with my friend from church, Thomas Hodapp. His town, Colmar, is situated just south-west of Strasbourg. The welcome by his family was fantastic! They are a very hospitable bunch who by the way, all play some sort of brass instrument. I saw old Colmar with the typical houses (German looking)- I will include a picture as soon as I get them. The region is also known for the wine so we took a drive down the wine road to a little town that contained a "Marché de Noël" or Christmas Market where I bought my niece Mya her first Christmas ornament. For Christmas we visited Thomas' grandparents and that was a treat as well!
Precisely one week after arriving in Colmar I departed by TGV (high speed train) to Zug, Switzerland (near Zurich) where I stayed with Corey and Tanya Best- basically family. That was a very relaxing time as I spoke English the whole time and was around people I know well. But Tanya had to leave early as they recieved a call informing them that the baby they were adopting was going to be born the following day. That was about my third day in Switzerland. The C-section was not due for a couple weeks however it was moved up as the mother was going into labour. As the baby is from South Carolina Corey and Tanya were in a rush to get tickets changed and get her out of there the following mourning in time for the delivery. Thanks to God all went well and they now have a new daughter named Sarah Christiana Best. Praise God!!! Sunday the 4th I left by TGV once again and began the last two weeks of this semester on the 5th.
God was gracious also in giving me many opportunities to serve Him and fellow brothers and sisters in Christ: I sang Christmas carols at an old folks home with the Hodapps, helped distribute invitations for their church's Christmas program and fliers to buy a calander with verses. In Zug I was able to help Corey and Tanya move their kids rooms around in preparation for the baby- even though they had no idea of God's timing :) and I helped their church construct a cry room and nursery. Thank you God for your grace!
Praise God for great things He had done!
Psalm 11:4b says "His (speaking of God) eyelids test the sons of men." I don't understand this completely but it is very profound. His EYELIDS test the sons of men! Wow!
Praises: 1. I have made it through the winter semester 2. The hosts I had over my break: the Hodapps in Alsace and the Best's in Zurich, Switzerland 3. God refreshing me over the break 4. Family 5. Being able to speak French better after my break
Prayer Requests: 1. The next semester 2. The mission trip I am taking to the Ivory Coast this summer 3. To draw closer daily to my Savior 4. My final exam the 19th- I'm very nervous 5. Ability to accurately evaluate my progress in French (I'm a perfectionist) and see and acknowledge my gains and strengths
9.12.08
One month later... hmm, these updates have gotten away from me. Please forgive the lack of communication. I will give one more update before Christmas break which begins the 20th and then recommence the first week of January.
What have I been up to? School is the short answer as that is nearly all I do. In addition to that I have found a program that allows one to practice French in a round table discussion lead by a native speaker, every Wednesday I have a Bible study where we are studying the book of acts and I occasionally go into Paris during the weekend to hang out with friends. For Thanksgiving I ate with an American and some French friends one night and another celebrated with the other missionaries. I made Pumpkin Pie (I had to buy the canned pumpkin from an American shop in Paris which is ironically called “Thanksgiving.” They also have Dr. Pepper).
Honestly it has been a particularly hard month with many spiritual attacks and tough subject matter- pronoms (ie. it, their, them, him, her etc.). I was incredibly discouraged which lead to becoming depressed. However God has been my steady Rock and when things seemed so turbulent and difficult it never moved. In fact, it is much like when Peter was walking on the water. He took his eyes off of Christ and began to sink at which point Jesus took hold of his hand and kept him atop the water. What a great Savior we have, faithful and all powerful! The passage He gave to me during this time was Psalm 46. After about two months here I finally just forced myself to speak more often (thanks to God) regardless of the beastly phrases and sounds that came out. The result is that I now have improved in all areas of the language! I continue to make many mistakes but I learn from them and gain further ground. God willing, I will be able to speak with fluidity, relatively few mistakes, no massacring of phonetiques and a more vibrant vocabulary.
It has snowed here twice now! Living away from it and in a state of perpetual fall has made me realize that I do indeed miss the snow... although I will enjoy seeing a real spring and summer come at the proper time.
For Christmas I have been invited by a friend from church to go to his family’s place in Alsace- which I hear is the place to be in France during Christmas. On the 27th I will depart Colmar, France for Zug, Switzerland to spend a week with Corey and Tanya Best- friends from Colorado who now live, work and do ministry in Switzerland. When I return from vacation I have two weeks of school left before my final. So I am going to try and study where I can during the vacation.
One final note: I am now at 101% of my support!!! God loves us so much! Thank you so much first, foremost and above all for your prayers!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I can’t tell you how much that means to me and how much it keeps me up and going! Thank you as well for the financial support!
Prayer Requests: 1. Wise management of time 2. Ability to drop all English language standards and merely accept French rules 3. Understanding of French grammaire 4. Energy 5. Preparation for my final the 27th-30th of January.
Praises: 1. God’s love and faithfulness 2. God’s power 3. My new niece Mya Lemme 4. Improvement in all areas of language 5. 101% support level 6. Friends 7. The opportunity to go to friends places during Christmas
26.10.08
Here's a video (without sound sadly :( ) of praise and worship after our multicultural meal. Thiswill just give you an idea of what my church is like. Again, I wish there was sound because it would add so much more. Enjoy!Today was very encouraging in church! It was the first time I have actually been able to worshipGod and enjoy the fellowship.Praise God for the great things he has done!!!
25.10.08
It has been awhile sine my
last post. I know my goal was once a week but with a vacation and then
school starting right after, things piled up. The updates therefore
should be more consistent now.
The
winter semester is into its third week the 27th- kinda crazy to think
about. It is a VERY hard semester. Initially I was under the impression
that I had moved up one level but apparently I moved up two. This
semester I take intermediate 2 French at the Sorbonne- the more
advanced class... and it is very obvious! Thanks to God, I understand
most of what the professor is saying and am now able to comprehend
about 70-80% of what she says and can recognize what tense a verb is
in... for the most part. However we are moving extremely quickly and
it's all I can do to keep up. My head is just above water. Satan
therefore has been attacking me here with discouragement at the rate of
my learning, ability to understand, speak and the accent.
Culture
is going well. I think God really used my time in Prague to grow a
closer connection with France and its culture and language. In the
Czech Republic I understood nothing of the culture and language, but in
France things are at least somewhat familiar. I still find certain
situations hard difficult to figure out.
For
example: this mourning people who are involved with the church's
outreach tonight were here for lunch and I was still in my mourning
clothes. Is it alright to be seen like that and are the greetings the
same or more distant because of that? Another
example involves eating. This evening I was having diner at around 5pm
and the guest speaker was waiting in our living room for the outreach
to begin. So I offered him some food and he responded by asking what
time it was and looked at his watch (most French eat around 7-8). It
was only after I had spoken that I realized what I was asking... but I
did not want to be rude and not offer (if that is even considered rude).
This
past week was particularly hard in terms of spiritual attacks. Around
every corner something was waiting. Nothing seemed to go right and
everything seemed much more difficult. When I spoke French I made
mistakes that I never make. I understood very little about the grammar
we were learning in class... and on and on. Thankfully I think many
were praying for me this week and it certainly made a difference!
Although still difficult, I was much stronger and much more encouraged.
Thank you and please continue your prayers!!! They are the means to my
breath, strength and spiritual life!
I
have never done something this difficult! But by the grace of God I
will accomplish what He desires. The passage God gave me last week was
Psalm 46. "God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in
trouble. Therefore we will not fear though the earth gives way... The
nations rage, the kingdoms totter; he utters his voice, the earth
melts. The Lord of hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our fortress.
Come, behold the works of the Lord, how he has brought desolations on
the earth... Be still, and know that I am God. I will be exalted among
the nations, I will be exalted in the earth! The God of Jacob is with
us; the God of Jacob is our fortress."
Prayer: 1.I Corinthians 10:12-13 2. II Thessalonians 4:17 3. Faithful in memorizing and studying Scripture4. Psalm 1 5. To live the Christian life by faith just as I was born by faith 6. Language acquisition: vocabulary, accent, grammar 7. Culture acquisition
Praises: 1. God's faithfulness 2. God's power 3.My prayer supporters 4. My financial supporters 5. My prayer supporters 6. I am now at 96% of my support level... and that in the midst of the world financial crisis7.I am in France!
24.9.08
Hello! Sorry for the long delay since my last post. Now that I am settled in... for the most part, the communication should be more consistent. I am shooting for a post every week. It's been pretty busy here with school. Every weekday I wake up at 05:50, walk five minutes to the bus at 06:55, get to the RER (Réseau Express Régional- Regional Network Express) at 07:10 and take the 07:15 train into Paris. I arrive at my metro connection, Magenta, at 08:00 and take line 4 down to the Raspail station at about 08:10. Then I walk ten minutes to the school. In all that's a little more than an hour commute. After an hour of phonetics class and four hours of grammar and lunch I go home at 15:00 (3pm). When I arrive home around 4:30 I check email, facebook etc./relax and then begin studying. That consists of homework, vocab testing and usually TV in French. I make a meal about 1-2 times a week and shop for groceries once a week as well. Needless to say, I am very tired at the end of everyday.
Yesterday I registered for the winter semester. I will take the same sort of course- intensive French (25 hrs./week), but it's duration will be nearly three months. However that begins on 9 October. Therefore next week I am going to visit somewhere in Europe- maybe Belfast, England, Zug, Switzerland, or Prague, The Czech Republic.
My French is coming along. That is for sure. But not as much as I would like. It is frustrating not being able to express one's self well. So I have many lessons in humility. However through John Piper's book "Don't Waste Your Life" God has shown me that I am to do my best and leave the rest up to Him. After all, I am because He is. I exist for His glory and not my comfort, ease or amusement. That helped so much! Praise God. With that said, words and phrases are coming ever more fluidly. What I find most difficult is grammar class... and four hours of it no less. I was not good at nor did I like English grammar so it is as if I am learning two languages. French I love! Grammar I very much dislike!
Praises: 1. God's love and faithfulness in bringing me here, sustaining me, equipping me, providing all my needs (not just speaking materially) and strengthening me 2. Friends 3. Little to no culture shock (so far) 4. This program (the OIKOS House) 5. Patience with language acquisition
Prayer Requests: 1. Patience, diligence, strength, grace (thinking, speaking, reading, listening etc.) in language acquisition 2. Ears for hearing all the language nuances 3. A mouth to mimic and make natural the sounds and positions 4. A mind to understand grammar 5. Continual reliance upon the power of God
21.8.08
I'm here!!! My travels on 19.8-21.8 were without incident. Today Jonathan and I went into town (Paris) so that I could begin to familiarize myself with the route (train and metro) which I will take to and from school (it is about an hour one way). We also checked out the class that I will enroll in. Next week I move from the OIKOS House to an apartment above a church not far from here. During the weekend we will visit IKEA (pronounced E-K-A (as in apartment) ;)) to purchase basic living supplies.
Do I love it? If you know me then you know that my answer is emphatically YES!!! Praise God for His love, mercy, grace and faithfulness!!!
6.8.08
Today I talked to Jonathan (the missionary who heads the OIKOS House) and he informed me that although I am only at 88% I could go ahead and purchase my ticket! PRAISE GOD!!!!!!! Therefore I did so immediately after speaking with him, haha. I found a one-way ticket on Vayama for $453 total! I have seen cheap tickets before but nothing this low! However it is no surprise as God has everything planned out perfectly. Knowing this I am confident that the last 12% ($362/month) will come in due time. This Friday is my last day at work which will give me a week to put the last things in order before I leave on 19 August.
Prayer requests are: 1.Final preparations2. Uneventful travels, God willing, and the grace to handle what God allows 3.The first 3-6 months in Paris as those tend to be the hardest spiritually, emotionally, physically, intellectually, relationally, culturally etc.
Praises are:1. THAT I AM FINALLY LEAVING!!! 2.God's grace, mercy, love and faithfulness 3.My salvation, God's work of molding me into the image of Christ and it's final perfection- all to me a sinner who deserves nothing but judgment and Hell 4. You- I cannot begin to express the great love and thankfulness I have for you who have supported me in a plethora of ways
23.7.08
My trip to Oregon and Washington went very well. Friday night I got off work at 19:00, went to French and finished at 20:00. When I finally went to bed it was 21-21:30... waking up at 01:15 was therefore quite the task! My plane departed Denver at 05:30 and I had a 2 hour drive from Portland to Neskowin, near Pacific City, when I landed. Needless to say, that was a long day! However I had a great time with my hosts. They took me out to the beach and we enjoyed the beautiful day. Pacific City is much like Breckenridge, that is, without the mountains- it is a tourist and retirement destination. Sunday mourning I spoke in Pacific City and was able to visit with some friends from college, Morgan and Krista Motsinger. Sadly I was not able to hang around for another day as I was to speak in Roy, Washington at 18:00 that evening. It was a 4-4.5 hour drive so it was close. Otherwise my hosts were going to take me fishing on the ocean the following day!!! Next time I will make more time!
Thankfully I arrived in Roy on time. I had diner with the Schnetz's, tried to learn all 10 of their names and shared with their church God's calling on my life. Afterwards we fellowshiped over ice cream and volleyball. Monday Parker, my friend from college, and I (sadly Courtney was sick) went to Seattle. We walked around Seattle and Pike's Place Market. Later I met up with my cousin Josias Lambert who has recently moved out there and he showed me Tacoma and took me to diner for some great clam chowder.
Tuesday I arrived home around 17:00. It was a whirlwind trip but I thoroughly enjoyed every bit! Both churches were great and I loved getting to share my passion and meeting all the people!
While I was driving home from Denver I received a call from the French Consulate. They had the final document needed for my Visa. The Visa was printing out at that moment and was being mailed that day!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! GOD IS AWESOME!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Thank you for your prayers!!!
13.7.08
LA trip photos: 1- Jonathan & me at diner the night before my Visa appointment 2- Pedestrian mall in LA (like 16th street mall in Denver except better) 3- Me in front of the French Consulate
I recently received an updated support status from WorldVenture. The percentage stated did not make sense given the last status update, therefore I did the math and discovered that the former percentage was incorrect and teh most recent was on the mark. Consequently I came to the sobering reality that my support level is not at 88% but at 83%. This means that I still need $543/month to reach 100%. Please pray with me for the remainder to come in so that I can leave the third week of August, God willing, and praiseour loving and awesome God for the 82% He has already gathered!
10.7.08
.
Thank you for all your prayers! My trip to LA was great. I flew with a buddy pass, thanks to a friend, and made the first flight I was listed for in Denver Tuesday mourning. My taxi ride from LAX was short through the nearly always congested city and I stayed at my hotel until Jonathan picked me up for diner. It was great to hang out with him and get to know him a bit before going to Paris.
Wednesday mourning I checked out of my hotel and took a taxi to the French Consulate. I arrived a couple hours early on Jonathan's advice and was able to be seen about an hour before my scheduled appointment. The whole process took nearly two hours, waiting and all and for the most part went incredibly smoothly! However, while the gentleman was inputting the information for my Visa, he was going to issue it there and then! It was discovered that one document was lacking- an official letter from Jonathan and those at the mission in Paris stating their welcome of me. Therefore I would appreciate your fervent prayers, which I always yearn for, concerning a quick resolution to this hitch. The gentleman who would normally expedite this letter is also in the US and so it must be done by those remaining in Paris. The Consulate will keep my passport and documents for about a week at which point they will mail the passport to me and require it upon the reception of that final document. Then I will be issued my Visa!
On my homeward journey I missed my first flight due to a full flight but made the second... only to find my car battery dead. I forgot to turn my lights off, haha. But God was gracious and merciful to answer affirmatively my prayers for someone to be two rows or less from me upon my arrival in the parking lot so that they could jump start my car. Same time, same place!!! Thanks to a recent financial commitment I am now at 82%and can soon purchase my airline ticket (at 90%)!!!
Please praise our awesome God for His everlasting love, His grace and mercy and perfect wisdom always working for our good and His glory!
.
1.7.08
.
I finally have all my paperwork for the Visa and have therefore made an appointment at the French Consulate for Wednesday 9 July at 10:15 AM. It can take anywhere from two weeks to three months after the meeting to receive the Visa after which I have three weeks to initiate the Visa. Jonathan Finley is going to meet me at the Consulate to assist with the process! PRAISE GOD!
As I have mentioned before it is my prayer and hope to leave the thrird week of August. Please join with me in prayer for a smooth appointment and a quick acquisition of the Visa, God willing, so that I can indeed leave in mid-August.
Additionally God has opened the door for me to travel to northern Organ and southern Washington the weeked of July 20 to present God's passion for the French and His calling upon my life. Praise God! Please pray for clarity of mind and speech, and sincerity of heart for me, as well as, safe and uneventful travels, God willing. For the people to whom I speak, please pray for clarity of mind and heart, and a submissive spirit to the will of God in their lives.
THANK YOU!!!
.
2.6.08
.
Addendum to support level increase: Apparently Jonathan stated the rise in support incorrectly or I heard him incorrectly. The level of support increased due to the dollar’s fall not by 5% but 15% ($2,569.12/month increased to $3,015.38/month). Thanks!
.
11.5.08
.
Elizabeth of “Pride and Prejudice” hurriedly read the letter from Mr. Darcy. Soon however her anxiousness disappeared in a torrent of vehement indignation. Presumptuous pride and impertinence soaked every word! Initially therefore she was resolved to never look at such a detestable thing again. Yet little time elapsed before she was irresistibly enticed to its pages again. She gathered herself and this time read each word and phrase deliberately- every tone was analyzed, every meaning threshed out. This had the most alarming effect. Revolutions in her perceptions quickly appeared possible. What was once mountainous reality now melted into oceans of reverie. Upon deeper meditation and reflection on the past it was clear that her assessment of Mr. Darcy had been altogether wrong.
Similar feelings of surprise have recently overtaken me. The fourth of May I received an email from Jonathan Finely, the missionary in charge of OIKOS House, concerning my arrival date. The last two weeks of May and June and the entire month of July he will be absent, during which time he will visit a Bible institute on the Ivory Coast and study for his PhD entrance exam in Pasadena, California. Additionally the semester begins in late August and therefore it was deemed in my best interest to delay the departure until the last half of August. Although I was not entirely sure that late March would be my departure date, I was reasonably certain- even more that spring would see me leave for Paris.
Proverb 16:9 says, “The mind of man plans his way, but the Lord directs his steps.” Like “Lizzie” and all men, I too unknowingly had false preconceptions based on twisted views of reality- our imagined reality. I spoke in Lazear, CO in January and in Beaver City, NE in February, financial support ballooned to nearly 90%- much due to my home church’s decision to support me financially (PRAISE GOD!!!)- and I began gathering all necessary Visa paperwork. By all appearances I was to be on the plane at the end of March. The need to get a re-certification in CPR for my job at the hospital however was a confusing circumstance. Why would I need it if I was to leave soon? Shortly thereafter the departure date was moved to the beginning of May due to insufficient funds (12% remaining at that time) and no Visa- another confusing course of events. What added to the dubiety of my situation was the cancelation of a seminar on cross-cultural ministry I had planned to take advantage of in my extra time stateside. Because I had been praying about the seminar for some time, I immediately took Jonathan’s email as a sign that it was God’s intention to keep me here so that I might benefit from said conference. Indeed providence always is beyond a comprehensive understanding because it is the work of our omniscient God. For as the Father showed me today in my reading “Man’s steps are ordained by the LORD, how can man understand His way” (Proverbs 20:24)? How can we who are limited, attain understanding of the unlimited/complete/perfect wisdom of God!!! Nevertheless I am completely at peace in my confused state because while God is completely all knowing, He is also completely and perfectly loving! He has our best in mind (Romans 8:28-30).
Therefore events are far from negative! This time extension enables me to improve my French skills through private lessons with a national, see my sister’s progress in her pregnancy and lend my support, hang out with my brother Kit and attend a friend’s wedding where I will see Houghton and Gretchen Richards and their children. They are going to be missionaries on the South Pacific island of Vanuatu. Consequently this may be the last opportunity I have to see them for a very long while! Additionally I hope, Dieu voulant (God willing), to visit a few more churches to share the needs of the French and God’s love for them.
Praises are:1. God’s faithfulness in bringing His plan to pass- I have been waiting six years 2. the prayer and financial support- especially my home church’s 3. my sister’s pregnancy 4. God’s wisdom and love Prayer requests include:1. patience while I wait for the second half of August 2. wisdom to know what I should do these next few months and faithfulness in being used as God intends 3. acquisition of my Visa 4. 99.9% of total support (being financial and prayer together) to be prayer support 5. due to the dollar’s weakness and the Euro’s strength my support level is rising by about 5% ($130/month). Please pray for the remainder of my support.
.
19.3.08
Thank you so much for your support and prayers! At my current level I can purchase my ticket, however I need a Visa to stay in France for two years. Therefore until I receive my Visa I should not purchase an airline ticket (unless God leads otherwise of course). So if you could pray for the remainder of my support to come in and the Visa process it would be greatly appreciated! It appears that I will likely leave the beginning of May as I still need to have my background check mailed to me and my birth certificate translated into French. Upon arrival in France I must register with at the local prefecture (police station) and present my Visa and birth certificate for official verification of my Visa and stay. I have contacted both the French Consulate in LA and the honorary one in Denver to find translation services but have heard nothing in response yet. These too could be put to prayer. I also do not have any more churches at which to speak which is another matter for prayer.
I am still working at the hospital but I had planned to cease at the end of March. With an early May departure I think it best to work through mid April and will do so if I can get my CPR recertified tomorrow- it expires at the end of March. When I do end my job I am planning to have a going away party to say goodbye to friends and family. I am looking forward to this (even though it will be bitter sweet) as it will give me one more chance to see many of them and to witness and share the gospel with others before I leave.
Since my most recent update God has given me great opportunities for witnessing and sharing the gospel at work. He has provided not only for me in terms of missions but many other ways as well. I had a dentist appointment last week and had been previously praying for it to be free. After the cleaning I left, forgetting to pay. Halfway home I realized this and turned around. When I arrived back at the dentist I asked the price (because I have no insurance) and they told me it was on them! Soon before I leave I will sell my car so I have Blue Booked it to discover it's value. I will be able to sell it for $400-600 more than I bought it for! In my devotions God has been teaching and comforting me with His power and creating a satisfied spirit within me! Please join with me in praising God for His goodness, faithfulness, grace, mercy, lovingkindness, wisdom, power and presence! God is not good. He is AWESOME!!!
13.12.07
Bonjour!It’s time for an update!
The French title for my letters/updates translates into “The Light.”Isaiah 9:2 says “The people who walk in darkness will see a great light; those who live in a dark land, the light will shine on them.”This verse foreshadowed the coming of Jesus Christ, the Light of the world, Who would bring the message of light, the Gospel, to those who live in spiritual darkness.France, with a Biblically Christian population of .00118%, compared to .00318% in India, is an incredibly dark nation in desperate need of this light.God has called me to bear the Gospel to France that they might walk in its light- la lumière.
I have been very busy since my last letter scheduling speaking engagements, creating a PowerPoint presentation and sermon, training at WorldVenture headquarters and traveling to churches…all on top of life, haha.
October 1-5 was spent at WorldVenture’s headquarters down in Denver for mid-term missionary training.Among the many things taught were how to effectively deal with the chaos of the transitional period between now and arrival on the field, culture shock and how to properly deal with conflict.I learned much and made many new friends!While most of the others are going to Africa it was very refreshing to spend time with those who have similar callings on their lives.
My first presentation was at Rocky Mountain Bible Church in front of the home crowd; it went very well thanks to all the prayers.Thank you and praise God!However, many did not attend as that was the evening the Rockies were playing game four of the World Series- tough competition…though not for the Red Sox.
Sunday Novermber 4th was spent at Orem, UT where I preached Romans 9:1-3 at Fellowship Bible Church.I grew up with Mike Tharp, the pastor, so it was nice to catch up with him.Additionally the weather and scenery were very beautiful! Friday November 9th I drove up to LaGrange, WY and spoke in chapel at Frontier School of the Bible. I graduated there in ’05; it was a bittersweet visit as the place holds so many memories yet the faces are for the most part unfamiliar.Nevertheless I thoroughly enjoyed my time there. Saturday November 19th I headed to Smith Center, KS where I shared with my grandparent’s church in addition to my aunt and uncle’s church.Much of my family resides there and so it was great to visit with them!
November 18th I spoke in St. George, UT and Mesquite, NV and again was able to fellowship with many friends!I also had the opportunity to visit Zion National Park.It was beautiful!
Currently I am seeking to fill the upcoming months with appointments but have only one currently.So please pray that God would fill the next few months and keep me patient as I wait for His timing.
Thus far my letters and speaking engagements have borne much in the way of prayer support!I estimate that there are twice as many prayer supporters as there are financial supporters! Praise God!It is indeed vital to our life and the ministry!Financially I have 70% of my one time expenses paid for and about 25% of my monthly needs committed (I need to raise around $2,500/month).Please pray for patience on my part as I wait for God to bring along those He desires to partner with me in the ministry.Additionally I would appreciate you praying Proverbs 3:5-6, James 1:2-4 and Isaiah 40:31 on my behalf.
More prayer requests include: safety as I travel- God willing, strengthened faith as I go through this stretching time, energy for my busy schedule, a sober and yielded spirit as I am in a time of heightened spiritual warfare and for God to bring in all my needs so that His perfect will might be accomplished and He receive glory, honor and praise!
Thank you for you support!!
A few things have changed recently. For the past several months I have been looking to exit Starbucks well while also leaving the store at a good point in the ebb and flow of employees and customers. Recently God provided the widow so on the 16th of August I worked my last day! I did this in order to create more balance in life as I was working an average of 56 hours a week. Work is a part of my life, not my life. Soon afterwards the hospital offered me a full-time position, although I was already working the hours...and more. Now I will receive benefits and paid time off. God always provides!
Beginning July 1 my missions account at WorldVenture had a deficit. This was my first test in the area of support raising. Throughout the previous two months I was praying for God's provision but I remained in the rears. Consequently the fire of trial really began to grow mid August. Scripture told me that God is always faithful and people's lives, my life, reiterated the message. I clung to I Thessalonians 5:24 where Paul says, "He (God) who calls you is faithful, and He will do it." "And my God will supply all your needs according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus," are words from Philippians 4:19 that I hung to. As the month drew to a close God confuted the temptation to doubt. He provided beyond what was necessary through two gifts and affirmed His Word in Ephesians 3:20 "Now to Him who is able to do far more abundantly beyond all that we ask or think, according to the power that works within us."
I have spent the past couple weeks stuffing envelopes containing missions information and will mail them as soon as my prayer card is finished, which I pray is tomorrow. Additionally I have begun contacting churches to inquire about speaking engagements. My first presentation will be at my home church, Rocky Mountain Bible Church, on October 28 at 6:30pm. The next two scheduled thus far are at Frontier School of the Bible on the 9th of November and in Lazear, CO on the 25th of the same month. I am still waiting for a response from several other churches but know that God is faithful. Even as I write this I am encouraged by my memories of His love!
What I struggle with as I am raising support is the motivation and focus of my heart and mind. While I know that prayer is the most important piece of support I can receive and is what I desire from my supporters more than anything else my heart and mind belie my words and are singularly set on the financial aspect. However I plainly and arduously desire to present God’s heart for France to the people I encounter and plant such zeal in them. What God works in the impassioned heart will bubble like a spring into rivers of prayer and perhaps financial gifts.
Therefore my prayer requests are: 1. Humility 2. Childlike dependence upon God 3. Matured faith 4. Matured prayer 5. Increased time spent in Scripture study, memorization and meditation 6. A pure heart in presenting the ministry 7. Opportunities to speak 8. Committed prayer and financial prayer supporters, especially prayer
3.7.07
I am going to France! God says in I Thessalonians 5:24, “Faithful is He who calls you, and He also will bring it to pass.” Each person has a purpose for which God has set them aside. The unfolding of mine began on August 24, 1982.
I was saved by God’s grace at age three and grew up in a home where regular church attendance and godly parents impressed me with a growing knowledge and love for God. Internationals and missionaries were a common sight, their languages were common sounds, their stories were common conversation and their foods were common tastes and smells. Family vacations across the continental United States created my love for traveling and French classes in Middle School and High School developed my love of Europe. Love for France was nurtured and blossomed as a result of the courses.
As a freshman at Colorado Mountain College I memorized Proverbs 3:5-6, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not upon your own understanding, but in all your ways acknowledge Him and He will make your paths straight.” Through this verse God brought me to submit to His will for my life and the following three years attended Frontier School of the Bible with the goal of church planting in France.
Upon graduation in 2005 I moved back to Breckenridge, Colorado where new courses awaited me, lessons in life. I can’t begin to tell you of all that I have learned these past two years. Patience, contentment, leadership, various responsibilities, balance, focus and endurance are only a few. They have been long and they have proven hard.
But, they cannot be compared with the result. God began to open doors and plans towards France that once proved empty were now fruitful. With His blessing I moved forward and made application to WorldVenture. He united all hearts involved in the process and on the 11th of June I was accepted as a missionary with WorldVenture.
I will serve as an intern at the OIKOS House in the eastern suburbs of Paris. My first year will be language school and the second year involves an internship at a local area church. The purpose of the program is to prepare people for cross-cultural ministry. Therefore at the end of these two years I plan, God willing, to begin church planting in France.
However, as with anything in life, it is an impossible task without God Who works in and through us to accomplish His purposes. Consequently I beseech you to consider joining with me in the most powerful way, prayer. James says in verse 5:16b, “The effective prayer of a righteous man can accomplish much.” Dr. A.J. Gordon said, “You can do more than pray after you’ve prayed, but there’s no more you can do than pray until you’ve prayed.” First and foremost I need your prayers!
Additionally I do need financial support. Nevertheless, God has laid upon my heart to make my need known to all but only ask Him to meet my needs. As a result I will leave this matter of finances between you and God. If He should lead you to give you can make checks payable to WorldVenture (one word) and put my missionary number (960) in the memo line. There are also the options to give online at www.worldventure.com and through automatic electronic withdraws. Together we can praise Him for His perfect provision.
May the French find the glory of God through His outpouring of grace and mercy upon the scorched land of their hearts!
3.6.07
It's been a while since my last blog. Sorry... again!!!
Let me get you caught up. My meeting with the elders... went GREAT!!! I was prepared spiritually and mentally. Thank you for your prayers. I am convinced that this was the most major contribution to my confidence in God's goodness and wisdom and power and in my preparedness. The elders had most of their questions answered through my brief presentation and their follow-up questions were encouraging. When they had heard all I said and asked their questions they voted... unanimously... YES!!! Our prayers were answered according to God's goodness! Praise God for His lovingkindness and power of the hearts of men (mine and theirs)!!! Needless to say I had a grin from ear to ear. They signed the church recommendation form and shortly thereafter I heard from World Venture. I meet with them on June 11th for an interview where they'll decide to bring me on (I knowthis is where God has me so I am confident that I will be accepted). After that I'm not sure what happens but I'm extremely excited to say the least. My goal, Dieu voulant (God willing), for arrival in Paris is the spring of '08. It's a short time to raise prayer and financial support but I have no doubt that if God wants me there in the spring it will be no problem raising the needed support. He is after all the, omnipotent, omniscient, omnipresent, Creator, Sustainer and LORD God of all the universe. If God is for me than who can be against me.
At the end of May the youth pastor, my friend, Mark Mayfield, Scott and I went to Frontier School of the Bible for a ministry confrence. The speaker was Kent Hughes and the subject was biblical success. While the main sessions were repetative of his book, "Liberating Ministry from the Success Syndrome" the workshops were great. Overall it was a good time of refreshment and fellowship with family. During these two days I ran into Brian Russell, a former resident and student of Summit County and friend. He is going to Uganda with our church here in the next couple weeks and asked me to fill in the pulpit in Glendoe, WY where he pastors. I've been praying for more opportunities to preach and teach and here is one of God's answers. He is faithful and loving towards us!!! Recently much of my family was here for my brother Kit's graduation from high school. Thank God that He brought them all here and back safely as well as for their salvation and our fellowship with one another in Christ and family wise! It was great to see them, especially those from Kansas City. I hope to pay a visit to them sometime this summer, God willing. Also I thank God for Kit's graduation and his salvation and foundation in our LORD Jesus Christ. He is going to Trinity Western in Vancouver Canada to study business and engeneeing.
I am also taking Cultural Anthropology from Colorado Mountain College over the web. It's been fantastic. I've been learning so much. What I've come to discover or perhaps realize is that every missionary is an anthropologist to one degree or another.
Lately God has really been convicting me of my lack of discipleship and of sincerity (Psm. 78:34-39). Our heart is decitfull above all else and desperately wicked but God our Creator can chage our heart and Christ our Redeemer has freed us from the bondage of sin. So my prayer and energies have been focused on overcoming these weaknesses through the omnipotent strength of God. May we all prove to have sincere hearts and to be faithful disciples.
Please pray with me concerning: *My interview with World Venture *The support raising process *My spiritual growth and maturity *A heart for the French from my home church, Rocky Mountain Bible Church *Broken hearts and open eyes for the French *My preparation for the missions field, things expected and unexpected *A group of guys for accountability in France *Diligence in learning French right now and God's blessing in it *Wisdom and discernment in making the truth of Scripture culturally relevant to the French *An intricate understanding of French culture
5.5.07
Sorry that it has been so long again since my last entry. These past couple of months have been very encouraging because God is doing great things in and through me! My application for World Venture is only missing the church recommendation form. This monday the seventh I meet with the elders and present to them. I am fully confident that they will endorse me as God has initiated and carried through this current endeavor. I assume that it will be about a month after the application is complete that I will hear that I am accepted and can proceed to the next step. What that step is I'm not sure though. I will pursue a departure date of this upcoming spring unless God closes the doors and then I will seek the spring of 2009. I am still working at Starbucks and we finally have a new manager!!! I and several other shift supervisors had problems with her and I am the only one left from the other three who had problems with her. In addition another shift and three or four baristas quit during our managers stay. She hired very few additional employees and had a horrible attitude. But seeing the attitude of David towards Saul I decided I should stick it out, although I nearly quit several times, and pray for her. Things began to get better towards the end and finally God removed her. It has been a very hard time but God has taught me much and it has been great to see how he has worked in me and in the situation! My hospital job is going great with the exception of mud season, our slow time between tourist seasons. Due to the fact that most people know how to walk and ride bikes the number of patients we have goes down considerably. Because I have PRN status (as needed) and because I am the unit coordinator I am the first one put on call and while I still make $5 an hour it is not enough. So I've been praying for a full time job here in the PCU. But God in His perfect wisdom knew best. My brother-in-law Scott was asked to consider a job in the PACU sterlizing equipement. It is a full time job status and is garunteed hours which means I'll never be called off. He declined but thought of me. I was interested so he and about three or four other co-workers talked to the manager of the PACU. It seems promising and I am praying hard for this but either way I know God is in full control (Rom. 8:28). Whatever happens He is great and will provide my every need (Lk. 11:9-13). In youth group I recently began teaching on Islam as part of our course on world cults and religions. It went incredably well and I was able to challenge the kids in their faith and introduce information on cultural elements of Arabs. The next two or three weeks I will be co-teaching with a Muslim background believer I came in contact with and we'll go more in depth. In the end the kids should know the basics about Islam, what the truth is in Scripture concerning these things and how to defend thier faith and effectively witeness to Muslims. Please pray with me concerning: *My meeting with the elders -Courage and confidence in God and His calling and leading -Submission to the God for all of us including World Venture -Binding together of all parties under God -Wisdom and discernment for us all *My job situation and the grace to accept God's will *Diligence in Bible study, reading, Scripture memorization, language study and just preparedness for missions in France *Realistic expectations of missions, life in another culture, especially at first etc. *Watch over my heart with all diligence (Prov. 4:23) *Jn. 3:30 *For me to become a disciple of Christ *Growth in grace and the knowledge of the Lord Jesus Christ
21.3.07
These past couple months have been very exciting! As my last post details I have begun taking steps of faith with living arrangments and mission organizations as I am following the leading of our loving, all knowing God. It has been a test for me because I tend to be one who must have all the facts and all details plotted out before I take a step. It's been streching, but it's been great! Initally I was starting application processes with a couple of mission agencies however God brought those to a halt and began teaching me to wait on Him (Is. 40:29-31) in patience (Js. 1:2-4). This time He has been the initiator and sustainer from beginning to end and it is such a blessing. In it all I have had a tremendous peace. Additionally it is very encouraging and uplifting to know that He feels that I am at a point in maturity in all areas to move forward. It is also exciting to know that He knows the future and thus knows what I am going to be at that time! He is my hope and the joy of my salvation!
The most recent activity with World Venture is the conversation between my pastor and the recruter. The mission agency contacted me Monday and told me that the conversation went well and that they are interested in proceeding with my application. I recieved the document to apply online today from World Venture and am excited to see where God leads. Whereever it is though I know it is exactly where I ought to be. Besides this I have begun a prayer ministry with my brother-in-law and the youth pastor. We pray every Friday mourning. We are adding to this a prayer phone available to anyone at anytime to call a request in. It will be passed between the three of us. Plans to expand the ministry, which we decided to call "More than Words Ministries (I Jn. 3:18)," are in the works. My sister and I discussed an international ministry last year but things never materialized in the way of progress on the subject until my brother-in-law mentioned to me her continued interest in it. I too still had thoughts about it- the thing which kept me from pursuing it was the uncertainty of my duration in the county. Again, a step of faith was required when not all details were known. Therefore recently we began praying about this and drawing up questions and specifics for the ministry, each on our own. Next week we'll meet and dicuss the topic and hash out any nessasary pieces of conflict and confusion. Please join me in prayer for these things and any related issues. May our faith be streched and strengthened through God's gracious working in and through us. May Scripture prove true that, "He is able to do far more abundantly than all that we ask or imagine according to the power that works in us" (Eph. 3:20).
5.3.07
Prayer Requests: 1. Open heart to God's perfect will in (Prov. 3:5-6): a.) missions b.) ministry here at home c.) living arrangments 2. Prayerand financial support when I go to France 3. Redeem my time in the states 4. Continued growth in my: a.) prayer life: continuous, fervent, sincere, pure, faith filled, expectant, reverential and Spirit lead "You can do more than pray afteryou've prayed, but there's no more you can do than pray until you've prayed" Dr. A.J. Gordon b.) devotions (Psm. 119:18) c.) Scripture memory (Col. 3:16) d.) Scipture meditation (Psm. 1) e.) Application f.) Scripture study 5. Growth in the grace and knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ 6. Conformity with the image of Chirst 7. Eyes fixed upon the prize of my upward calling
Today i talked with a guy heading up a project in Paris with World Ventures. My friend, the youth pastor, told me about him. It is a two year program: the first consisting of language school and the second is an internship. All the while i'de be living in the eastern suburbs of Paris and living in a house with others doing the same thing. I'm going to pursue this as this is exactly the thing i've been looking for. It would be at the least one year before i would be over there, at most two.
27.1.07
Today I moved back to my parents because last week more than one wise godly friend told me that I need to just go to Europe. Essentially they were saying that I need to take a step of faith. That's enough confirmation from God to get me going! So I have begun looking at language schools in France and Switzerland where I will study French or German. God willing I will be going in the fall after I've saved up some money and written support letters. Please pray with me concerning: *When to go *Where to go *Prayer support that is ten times my financial support *Financial support *Continued peace *Patience *My new job at the hospital It's been the most frustrating, drawn out job process that I've ever experienced due to the lack of professionalism by my future overseer. However both jobs are having their trials with my supervisors. Therefore I also need prayer to act as David did toward Saul even when Saul was seeking David's life.
7.1.07
Again, sorry for the long delay in writting. I have partially forgotten I was doing this and partially just make time for it. I'm still at Sbux, for the meantime, but it's very hard. We've had several people quit, three shift supervisors and three or so baristas. So needless to say, things are tight in terms of covering shifts and time off. But God's getting me through it. However, I am not making any money there and consequently went looking for another job in addition to or in place of Sbux. I found out through my brother-in-law Scott that the hospital had a position open for a unit coordinator (a glorified secretary). I applied there and got an "as needed" possition which will get my foot in the door for full-time. So until then I'll do Sbux part-time and then quit when I get the full-time job at the hospital. My missions trip to France in March is looking good if I can get time off from the hospital. It would be two weeks (6-20) and I would be in Metz. I'm very excited! Prayer requests: what ministry I should get involved in, living situation due to finances, direction with a friend- Lindsey, to love God more every day.
16.11.06
Sorry I have missed a couple weeks. Because I am now living on my own the only internet access I have is at my parents. So let me bring you up to date. Starbucks is going well. I'm learning much about leadership in my shift supervisor position. Living on my own is presenting some new challenges but they are not problems, just great opportunities. I'm learning about the Lord giving me a good savings and the Lord taking it away and always blessing His name. For a week or so I was really struggling with the percentage I am giving back to God. Materialism and the "easy way out" were looking more appealing than usual. But God brought me through and renewed my joy and peace in giving. I recently began a men's Bible study with my brother-in-law, Scott and Mark my roommate. It's been very good and I'm excited to see what lies ahead in it. From the 19th-29th of November I will be gone to Florida with Tia and Scott. It is a great opportunity God opened up and I am confident that He will and exctied to see Him work to provide all my needs. About two weeks ago I asked my pastor to consider and pray about going on a mission trip with me to France. We would be gone for two weeks in March and stay with a missionary with Biblical Ministries Worldwide in Metz (north-eastern France). Until next time
7.10.06
I went to Frontier School of the Bible last week for their preview week. It was really good. There were not many students I knew as those who are seniors were freshman while I was in my last year. I was blessed however to see some good friends who were a year behind me and even some who graduated with me. All in all it was a time of encouragement and refreshment. I needed to get out of the county. Additionally this is my first week out on my own. It's been amazing seeing God work in so many ways! The day I decided to move out, Starbucks told me I was getting a raise, enabling me to have only one job and lead a balanced life. What makes this even more incredable is that God was also leading me to increase my tithing. Recently He has been providing food for me too! This is huge to me as the quality of food, and food in general, is important to me (that's the major reason moving out was so hard). Scott, my brother-in-law and Tia and mother all said that we could fix a day or two every week to have dinner at their place! My mom also gave me much food for my place and continues to do so! As my contentment has risen here, so have God's blessings, or perhaps just my observance of them. Two French people, a guy and girl, are moving to the county to do an internship at a church in the area which gives me a great opportunity to practice my French with some natives! All of these things remind me of Exodus 16:29-30. Where God leads, He provides. It is incredably comforting not just knowing God is faithful and knowing He's working in my life but also to see it so vividly! Truely He is also faithful in supplying all of our needs " according too His riches in glory," which consequently are infinite. Seek God, follow God and praise God! Life is good in His mighty and loving hands!
23.9.06
Prayer Requests:
To become a I Timothy 3 man
To become a godly man of integrity and character
Shoulder surgery- if, when and by what means
Second job- if, where and how many hours
Internship at Rocky Mountain Bible Church
Preparation for missions in the areas of: French language, culture, history, biblical knowledge and application, heart and mind connection (intellectual and relational connection) etc.
Salvation of: Derric LeFebvre, Chris, Chris Lange, TR and girlfriend, Billy Patterson and Courtny Phillips
From all eternity God has been seeking and working towards one end- His honor and glory- and His chief tool is us. Why? Because His strength is perfected in our weakness (II Cor. 12:9) and we are so very weak. Not able to even stay holy on our own for the day, for a moment, we fall infinitely short of eternal righteousness (Rom. 3:10-12; 6:23)- apart from God. But “God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whosoever believes in Him, shall not perish, but have eternal life” (John 3:16) and this life through the righteousness of His Son (II Corinthians 5:21). This message He has given to those who believe, that more might hear and be saved (Matt. 28:19-20; Acts 1:8) and what is more that those who have believed might strengthen the body of Christ through the teaching and preaching of the Word so that all may be in the process of maturing until all are perfected in the day of Christ Jesus to the measure of the stature which belongs to Him (Eph. 4:11-13; Phil. 1:6; II Tim. 2:2). But this message is not to be transmitted by one method, of one nation, of one people. No our God is a multicultural God in that He gives His message in the clearest way possible so that it is understood as fully as possible (Gen. 32:13-32; Daniel 2:34-35); this is even the way Paul spread the Word (Acts 17:15-23, 28; I Cor. 9:19-23). It is to be given in a culturally relevant way; a way in which the people to whom it is given would more accurately relate to and understand the message. Therefore it is my responsibility as a child of God and charge by the mouth of God to spread the Gospel as I go throughout life (this is what the Greek literally means) wherever, whenever, however, with whomever. But I must go further than just making converts, I must make disciples. And following the examples of both our all wise God and the Apostle Paul I will do it in a culturally relevant way so that all may understand it in the clearest possible way and develop biblically based believers who have the distinct flavor of that particular culture. However, all this is for naught and an empty pursuit if I strive under my own feeble strength. As I was saved by the power of God so I will live and strive by that same omnipotent power so that my mission will be successful and God will be most glorified. As it has once been said, “The saint that advances on his knees, never retreats” (Jim Elliot). It is well put because one on his knees is one who realizes his infinite weakness and thus entreats the One Who is infinitely strong and in the end God looks that much greater (although our infinite God cannot become actually greater than He is, for that is His very nature) in the eyes of men witnessing the acts of such a helpless worker. For as another has wisely said, “God does not call the qualified, He qualifies the called.” So may I always realize my weakness, seek God’s strength, accomplish the task(s) I have been given in that power and in it all bring all honor and glory to my Friend, Savior, Lord and God. In summary, my biblically based mission is to make biblically based disciples (learner followers of Christ) who are culturally relevant by the grace and power of God alone for the glory and honor of God alone.
15.9.06
Recently I've been into much deep thought about many things and it has lead me to the conclusion that I need to mature still more while here in the states. For this reason I am currently seeking to rent a place in Summit County. By doing so I will relieve my parents of me as a burden in thier home, though they are happy to house me, while remaining close to my family, gain credit, learn valuable lessons about life on my own, enter a new arena of financial responsibility and many other unforseeable lessons. Additionally I have decided to cease all formal application to any mission agency. I will however remain in contact with Biblical Ministries Worldwide and Frontier Missions. I have come to the realization that God wants me here, now, and that I have been seeking to force my way onto the field. Moses and Paul spent time in the wilderness and Joseph spent time in slavery in Egypt by God's loving will, in order to prepare them for the ministry He called them to, in order to refine them for His work. So I too am being refined, I too am being prepared for the ministry God called me to from my mother's womb. In Hisperfect time I will go forth confidently and fully equiped to carry out my calling. Until then I will serve here, I will work, I will study in order to be a prepared as possible in terms of language, culture and grasp of the Word of God.
Well, it has been a very long while since my last post, sorry. Obviously this hasn't been what I had hoped. This is due in part to the lack of direction in purpose. However I have just caught the vision for it thanks to some friends of mine. In today's fast pace world it is hard to stay in touch with family and friends, especially when that person is a missionary as I will one day be. Therefore it is my desire that this site become a newsletter to those who wish to keep in contact with me. Each week, or major event, I will attempt to give an update on my life, some pictures, Scripture and prayer requests. And so it begins...
21.6.06
This is my first blog and with some discipline I'll be as committed to it as I am my journal. I hope this is the first of many and a way for people to keep in touch with me, especially when I'm abroad.
I have been very busy since my last letter scheduling speaking engagements, creating a PowerPoint presentation and sermon, training at WorldVenture headquarters and traveling to churches…all on top of life, haha.
and spoke in chapel at Frontier School of the Bible. 
.
As a freshman at Colorado Mountain College I memorized Proverbs 3:5-6, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not upon your own understanding, but in all your ways acknowledge Him and He will make your paths straight.” Through this verse God brought me to submit to His will for my life and the following three years attended Frontier School of the Bible with the goal of church planting in France. 
Sorry that it has been so long again since my last entry. These past couple of months have been very encouraging because God is doing great things in and through me! My application for World Venture is only missing the church recommendation form. This monday the seventh I meet with the elders and present to them. I am fully confident that they will endorse me as God has initiated and carried through this current endeavor. I assume that it will be about a month after the application is complete that I will hear that I am accepted and can proceed to the next step. What that step is I'm not sure though. I will pursue a departure date of this upcoming spring unless God closes the doors and then I will seek the spring of 2009. I am still working at Starbucks and we finally have a new manager!!! I and several other shift supervisors had problems with her and I am the only one left from the other three who had problems with her. In addition another shift and three or four baristas quit during our managers stay. She hired very few additional employees and had a horrible attitude. But seeing the attitude of David towards Saul I decided I should stick it out, although I nearly quit several times, and pray for her. Things began to get better towards the end and finally God removed her. It has been a very hard time but God has taught me much and it has been great to see how he has worked in me and in the situation! My hospital job is going great with the exception of mud season, our slow time between tourist seasons. Due to the fact that most people know how to walk and ride bikes the number of patients we have goes down considerably. Because I have PRN status (as needed) and because I am the unit coordinator I am the first one put on call and while I still make $5 an hour it is not enough. So I've been praying for a full time job here in the PCU. But God in His perfect wisdom knew best. My brother-in-law Scott was asked to consider a job in the PACU sterlizing equipement. It is a full time job status and is garunteed hours which means I'll never be called off. He declined but thought of me. I was interested so he and about three or four other co-workers talked to the manager of the PACU. It seems promising and I am praying hard for this but either way I know God is in full control (Rom. 8:28). Whatever happens He is great and will provide my every need (Lk. 11:9-13). In youth group I recently began teaching on Islam as part of our course on world cults and religions. It went incredably well and I was able to challenge the kids in their faith and introduce information on cultural elements of Arabs. The next two or three weeks I will be co-teaching with a Muslim background believer I came in contact with and we'll go more in depth. In the end the kids should know the basics about Islam, what the truth is in Scripture concerning these things and how to defend thier faith and effectively witeness to Muslims. Please pray with me concerning: *My meeting with the elders -Courage and confidence in God and His calling and leading -Submission to the God for all of us including World Venture -Binding together of all parties under God -Wisdom and discernment for us all *My job situation and the grace to accept God's will *Diligence in Bible study, reading, Scripture memorization, language study and just preparedness for missions in France *Realistic expectations of missions, life in another culture, especially at first etc. *Watch over my heart with all diligence (Prov. 4:23) *Jn. 3:30 *For me to become a disciple of Christ *Growth in grace and the knowledge of the Lord Jesus Christ
Well, it has been a very long while since my last post, sorry. Obviously this hasn't been what I had hoped. This is due in part to the lack of direction in purpose. However I have just caught the vision for it thanks to some friends of mine. In today's fast pace world it is hard to stay in touch with family and friends, especially when that person is a missionary as I will one day be. Therefore it is my desire that this site become a newsletter to those who wish to keep in contact with me. Each week, or major event, I will attempt to give an update on my life, some pictures, Scripture and prayer requests. And so it begins...
