Greetings once again from the Middle East. Things have been really busy since our last newsletter and the coming weeks it will only intensify. We have trips planned, visitors coming, and most importantly God is doing great things.

 

When we came to the UAE we expected to be involved in many aspects of ministry, but one that took us a bit by surprise is the amount of  involvement with one of our local churches here in the UAE. The church is multi-ethnic and the members come from a variety of religious backgrounds. Although we have a long way to go, God is really doing wonderful things within the church. They are maturing in Christ and many are getting involved in various types of outreach. We have had a lot of battles along the way, but God seems to have a special purpose for this small congregation located in a very important place in the world. Please ask for God to use this ordinary group of people to do extraordinary things for His Kingdom. 

 

In a few days, Dr. Dwain Pyeatt from the COG Division of Education will be arriving in the UAE for a short visit. He and I will then travel to Kuwait to assist in initiating a ministerial training program that we hope will evolve into a seminary. Obviously there are many obstacles, but we trust that God is opening this door. Throughout the Middle East many of our pastors are in desperate need of training resources, and materials are almost non-existent. Please keep this trip in prayer for God's will to be done, and for Him to give us the wisdom and direction we will need to know how best to proceed in a sensitive area of the world.

 

This past month, Kari and I celebrated 21 years of marriage. Since the day we committed ourselves to one another we have lived in 6 countries and worked in dozens more. God has blessed us beyond measure by allowing us to participate with Him in His task to redeem humanity. We have almost died more times than we can count, but God has always kept us safe. We have faced budget problem after budget problem, but God has always provided. We have encountered impossible situations again and again, but God has made the impossible possible. I thank God everyday for the 21 years He has allowed us to spend together and work for His Kingdom. The only thing better than working for God is doing it with someone you love with all your heart. I am humbled to have such an honor.

 

Without your support and prayers our ministry would not be possible. With all our hearts we thank you for your commitment and support to the task God has given us. Please keep our family and our budget in your prayers as together we try to complete Christ's one and only commission.

 

In His Service,