There certainly is nothing more exciting then beholding a newborn baby except in seeing an individual become a newborn child of God! This is what the Great Commission is all about. Sharing the Gospel is so important and yet it is usually the most insignificant when God’s people become entangled with the cares of this life. I don’t know about you, but I find often the frustrations of being in an environment that seems to isolate me from the outside of-my “cocoon”. Yes, we can be busy serving the Lord and yet find ourselves isolated from the world. I was reading this morning concerning the beginnings of the early “church”. The 120 were waiting for the empowerment of the Holy Spirit. Waiting certainly is a test of patience. But the wait was worth it. For when the Holy Spirit came and filled the room where they were gathered together they became the tabernacle of God and they were given that power to launch out with the good news of Christs death, burial and resurrection. The timing was perfect, the message was perfect and the results were magnificent. One other thing that impressed me was the unity of the believers. Acts 2:1, “…They were all with one accord in one place.” Our Father loves to see His children walking in unity. When things are in disunity it only result in confusion, a quenched Spirit, and prevailing depression. The “church” today needs to regain its standing for unity amongst a world of disunity. The Lord makes it very clear when He says in Matthew 12:25, “…Every kingdom divided against itself is brought to desolation: and every city or house divided against itself shall not stand:” The challenge is certainly present, but the laborers are very few.
This brings me to the joy that is found is serving the Lord Jesus! There have been three pastors with us here at IGM since the beginning of March. None of them were ready for the cold weather they would face nor the challenges they would face. I sat at lunch with (right) Etienne Degbey (Togo) and he was sharing the challenges he faces and the power of God and His protection. Pastor Degbey is pastoring the first church of three he has been privileged to begin. The last church needs land and a building. His confidence and passion manifest themselves as he discusses the needs with a confidence that God will provide. Just maybe God would call you to help. The other pastor, brother Rao Jutike (India) (left) shared the continuous trials of poverty. He came into my office while writing this update and shared how his wife was called upon to care for a dear lady in their church that had passed into glory. Mrs. Rao Jutike, at the instruction of her husband, borrowed $400 needed to purchase a casket, land for burial, and other needs. You and I would say, that is pretty inexpensive! But, not so when you have nothing. Brother Rao has blessed many a church in these last six weeks and he is a man who certainly has a commitment to the Lord Jesus Christ.
Nancy and I are still carrying on for His Glory and enjoy the privilege of serving the Lord’s choice servants. Please pray for wisdom, personal stamina, and personal financial support. We both wish more of God’s children would help in the paradigm of IGM in reaching the world for Christ. You would think more would care in giving to reach those on the frontline of the spiritual warfare by enabling new churches and multitudes of souls making professions of faith. So much more could happen by empowering national pastors who know the languages of their country, the culture, and their idiosyncrasies of tribalism. If God’s people could see how quickly this world could be reached with the Gospel through this type of paradigm, it could happen in one generation. The average national pastor needs between $500 and $1000 per month based on the economics of their country.
For your information, Jessica Schraft, our IGM’s ‘little missionary’, and volunteer office helper for over 10 years went to be with the Lord on March 17, 2019.
Nancy and I appreciate your constant prayer and rejoice in all that you do to keep us serving our precious Lord on your behalf!