KACC GO! TEAMS

Australia's Aboriginality

2011-07-09T06:59:00.000-07:00

As we round the final turn and begin our run toward the finish, our Australia team has been blessed and sometimes overwhelmed with all God has shown us here in Queensland. A good portion of our last two days has been spent with the indigenous (aboriginal) community- observing, interacting with and learning from them as they live out lives straining toward a greater recognition and equality in this setting.

"Deadly" is a good term here!

We spent the better part of Friday at NAIDOC (National Aborigines and Islanders Day Observance Committee) which celebrates the indigenous cultures of the aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. It is a festive, carnival-like atmosphere with much joy and thankfulness for the heritages presented. We watched dances, heard singers and speakers, and interacted with organizations and vendors providing social services information for those in attendance.

This afternoon we learned to throw boomerangs (some learned better than others) with Goma Conlon, an indigenous pastor and good friend. He also demonstrated the playing of the didgeridoo (way cool) and talked about what it mans to be a follower of Christ in the aboriginal setting. Following this, we hopped over to the church at which he and another indigenous pastor are working an shared evening service with them. It was a great blessing to gather and worship with them. Josh drummed for their worship team, Don and Alexis shared testimonies and Alexis sang. What a rich history of stories and struggle were present among those members!

I thought you might like to share one more collection of photos of this great team:

NAIDOC festivities in downtown Brisbane

Josh and Luke made a new friend

Papa Fresh in da house!

Time for chocolate fondue at Max Brenners

Don sharing testimony at Saturday night service

Remember these guys?! They were the bomb!

Josh and Alexis with Saturday night worship team

Please pray for our last hours here. I'll preach Sunday morning at Ann Street, and Josh will speak for their Youth Church in the evening. We want more chances to share the hope that's within us before we leave these shores. Will you ask God to provide them, and for us to boldly speak of what He's done with our lives and what He wants to do for all who come to Him? Thanks!

We'll see youse soon- good on ya!

Eidsvold Doesn't Sound Australian

2011-07-07T08:32:00.000-07:00

Our 2011 Australia GO! Team has had an incredible experience so far! We just returned from 4 days in Eidsvold, a small community about six hours from Brisbane. Our goal was to serve the Christian Center there, along with its new pastor, Mark, and his wife, Alex. We had such a great time with kids and adults alike, playing sports, working through Bible lessons and crafts, singing, eating and running around together. We also got better acquainted with different adults in town, learning much about the issues and circumstances surrounding this small community of both white and aboriginal residents.

It's tough to quantify our take-aways from this experience, or the impact we were able to have. One local businessman did tell me that he appreciated our group being there, even for a few days each year, because he saw positive influence in kids' lives from our interaction with them. He told me that our presence is a reminder of normality (imagine someone referring to us as normal!), that the world is bigger and more functional than what is seen only through the local lens of the town. He thanked us for coming again, and offered his encouragement for our return next year.

The following are some more snaps of our last couple of days. I'll write more about Eidsvold and other good stuff a bit later:

Pastor Mark and his wife, Alex

Prayer circle before leaving Eidsvold

Captain Luke, superhero of the crafts debris!

Lianna mixing it with kids during crafts

Craft Woman Leslee and her monkey

Beautiful Eidsvold kids

Josh and Clinton

Which way back to Brisbane?!

Alexis singing to an appreciative audience

Don (aka Papa Fresh) and the girls, Leslee and Daun

Please keep us in prayers as we head into our final weekend here. Pray that we'll finish well and will take every opportunity to share the most important message on our hearts. Pray that we will remain focused on the task at hand and not too distracted by thoughts of getting back to our "regular" way of life. And pray that God will speak to us, even as He speaks through us, concerning lessons He's been showing us while serving here. We just can't afford to be the same people when we return as we were before we left.

And those around us can't afford that either.

GO! Australia in Fine Fashion

2011-07-02T06:37:00.000-07:00

Wow! it's been a whirlwind first week here in Brisbane for our team. We've tried to update our activities via Facebook, but our long days/evening schedule has hindered blogging up to this point.

Ann Street Church

We made it here with no worries, surprising our missionary (Daun) with her father (Don)! It was great to see her stunned expression at the airport as he came out the ramp! More than anything throughout this week, we've been impressed with the need and opportunity for relationships. The young people of the Ann Street Church are so open for friendships, and those connections matter to them. People with whom we've come into contact are also open to finding more about us and connecting with us on some level. These opportunities are abundant and fairly easy to negotiate- something all of us are able to do!

Community BBQ

We've been to an island off Brisbane's shore with the church, visited a zoo, cleaned and begun repainting Ann Street's Fellowship Hall, eaten kangaroo, served a Community BBQ (like our Community Supper), dined at the Pancake House in the city at midnite, attended a farewell service for Ron Tatum (visiting for a month from Southside Christian Church in Inglewood), and prayer walked in the city...just to mention a few things. Tomorrow (Sunday), Mike will preach a combined service (Ann St. regulars and their Korean church), then we'll pack up and head to Eidsvold, a small, predominantly aboriginal community 6 hours from here. Chances are there'll be no way to blog there, so we'll catch you up on our return next Thursday. Meanwhile, thank you for your prayers and love (keep 'em coming!), and enjoy a few recent snaps:

Daddy Don

Luke the artist

Josh and St. John

Alexis and the Ann St. mob

Work crew gettin' it done

In 'N' Out training pays off

Beach bunnies!

Mike keeping an eye out

We've experienced a lot in a short time, and there's more to come! Pray for opportunity and boldness as we represent our God here. We love you all!

Australia and Montana- GO!

2011-06-23T11:17:00.000-07:00

Summer in SoCal is kicking off, and with it two Knott Avenue Global Outreach (GO!) Teams committed to making a lasting difference throughout the world.

GO! Australia will be in Brisbane June 26-July 11. We'll again partner with our own Daun Slauson and the Ann Street Church of Christ, working with them as they reach those in their world. Our team includes Luke Hamagiwa, Josh Carman, Leslee Marvin, Lianna Cabrera, Mike Carman, and (in insets) Alexis Alvarado and Dan Stanton.

GO! Montana- Larry and Joyce Clasen, Kelly and Judy Kappen, Lynn Ramirez, Carol Hall, and John and Connie Bergsto (not pictured)- will be in Kalispell, MT June 26-July 6, working at the Youth With a Mission (YWAM) base there. This training center is led by Jeff and Kristi Wilke from KACC. The team will be busy with projects from office help to construction needs.

These teams need your prayers, as the experiences they'll encounter are not simply of the physical realm. Without sounding too esoteric, we need to remember that we wage a battle of a spiritual nature. That means that no matter what we're involved with, there are spiritual overtones and constructs that take us from the natural to the supernatural. Our conversations, relationships and opportunities all have spiritual overtones and ramifications that may resound into eternity. So please pray for each of these team members as they give themselves for a cause so much greater than they.

Brisbane

Pray for them as they travel, serve, connect and pour themselves out for the glory of our Lord. Pray for divine appointments with people who need the hope and that Jesus brings. Pray for team unity and a spirit of oneness. Pray for their families who will carry on here in their absence.

Remember also that you can check this blog site periodically for updates (at least for the Australia team!) as a way to keep you more closely connected with what's going on. Better yet, you can subscribe to this blog (it's on the right of this screen and it's free!) so that when we do post, that update will come to you automagically! Thanks for your prayers and concern for our teams...and as we go, will you also be aware of your call to go to wherever your world or field might be today so that you can make a world of difference?

After all, we really are all in this together!

Canada, Eh! Some Final Thoughts

2011-06-10T11:48:00.000-07:00

I've spent the better part of this seek reflecting on out team's recent time in Toronto. We had opportunity to see and do much, meet many, and learn so many things. Friends here at home have asked us about the trip and those experiences that stood out to us. I want to take a moment to list a few of those highlights (although my list may differ slightly from what my teammates might say!):

The ethnic and cultural diversity was overwhelming. We learned that 55% of Canadians are now born outside of Canada. In a gathering of some local Christian church pastors, five of the eight were non-Canadian born! The Churchill Meadows Christian Church, a congregation of more than 600 with whom we partner, has more than 46 ethnic or people groups represented!

This diversity provides great opportunity for the gospel. We met with a young Polish church and its leadership, and spent a day in Little Portugal, distributing information for a new Brazilian church plant.

We visited Hindu and Buddhist temples, and a mosque. The time at the mosque was especially engaging, as we spent time with a young imam named Munir. He explained tenets of Islam with us and was extremely open and gracious as we discussed differences between our faiths. There were times he admitted he had no answer to some of our questions, and we parted ways agreeing to continue seeking truth, wherever it might be found. Please pray for him, that he will truly find the truth about God and the need for a relationship with Jesus.

People throughout Toronto (properly called "Torontonians," we discovered!) were extremely nice to us, in every situation. They received us politely as we distributed information about the church house-to-house, they helped us whenever we approached them with a need, and they were patient with us at every turn. I asked the Canadian sitting next to me on the flight back to LA if every one in Toronto was so nice, and he replied, "Oh, there are many cities in the country where people are far nicer than those in Toronto!" If that's true, I want to visit those cities!

Canada has great spiritual need. The culture has become increasingly secular in the last years, with little tolerance for Christianity. The increasing immigration means a huge influx in other faiths, and a great deal of favor and latitude have been afforded them. But standing for Christ has become more unpopular and difficult for individuals and groups. There's more need for new churches now than ever! We know that church planting is the most effective evangelism that can be done, and now is the time for contextually-relevant expressions of the church, meeting the needs of and hopes of this generation.

We can make a difference in Canada! Churches and individuals like us can impact and influence the spiritual landscape of those to the north of us. Our partnership encourages and strengthens our brothers and sisters there. Our involvement can help open new works and extend the influence of God's kingdom beyond our front doors.

Jim Tune, senior pastor of CMCC and president of Impact Canada, told us that it's understandable that we funnel resources and attention to the farthest points of the world. And it's easy to overlook those who may be closest to us, assuming that they have all they need to understand the truth about God. But with declining spirituality and burgeoning immigration, Canada, though a first-world nation economically, is a third-world nation spiritually (Jim's words). And that a Canadian soul dying without Jesus faces the same eternal consequences as a person in India, China, Japan or anywhere else who dies without knowing Him.

Thanks to those of you who prayed for us while we were away- but please don't stop your prayers! Keep praying for your brothers and sisters at Churchill Meadows, for the churches in Toronto and beyond, for Impact Canada as it continues to plant churches throughout the country, and for God to be glorified among the Canadian people. And in case you're interested, we're already talking about returning next year. Pray about it...and the possibility of your place on the team with us.

Take a Look- GO! Team Canada

2011-06-08T22:35:00.000-07:00

We made it safely back to Los Angeles late Sunday evening, after a tremendous worship experience with Churchill Meadows Christian Church. I'll write more on that in the next post. But for now, a few pics of some of our great experiences...

Shop in Little Portugal (urban Toronto)

Jerry (church member) and Jose (Brazilian church planter)

GO! Canada Team ready for action

Jose and Mike with Brazilian flag

Mary in her groove with Caribbean singers at cultural festival

Pastor Gregory of Polish church plant

Cory and Floyd, Prez and VP of Voice of the Martyrs, Canada (Floyd is a CMCC elder!)

CN Tower, tallest North American building, and we were up there!

Ann, Liz and Mary taking a breather

Liz enjoying the TImbits (Canadian donut holes from Tim Horton's)

CMCC worship team led by Tim Kolb (center)

Taking Toronto- KACC GO! Team

2011-06-01T20:31:00.000-07:00

The trip is just past the halfway mark, and we are brimming with information, insight, challenge and blessing here in Toronto.

Our time with the Churchill Meadow Church has been remarkable. This is a congregation begun 10 years ago in the home of Jim and Claudia Tune. They had been meeting in schools as they purchased property toward an edge of the city of Mississauga. In fact, in 2006, Shane Womack (KACC senior pastor) and I stood in that empty field with Jim and Claudia and prayed for God to demonstrate his power and direction for this group as they desired to build a facility that would move God's kingdom work forward. Two months ago the church moved into its new campus on this site, and they are going full throttle, trying to "lay down track in front of a moving train," as Jim put it. I'm blessed that KACC has partnered with this work and is able to contribute in multiple ways to its development and success.

We've been on the move the last few days as well. We're working daily to place door hangers announcing upcoming events in adjacent communities to the church.

The last two days we've hung more than 1,000 flyers, and been able to speak with people along the way. We met with a group of Christian Church pastors yesterday, and were challenged in hearing their stories of struggle and success in their communities. Of the eight men present, five were NOT Canadian-born! So much diversity and opportunity here.

Today we visited a local mosque, where Edmund (CMCC's admin pastor) has a good relationship with a young imam, Munir. He was extremely gracious as he shared the tenets of Islam with us, fed us and tried to make us feel a bit more comfortable than we may have appeared at first. As our conversation progressed, we were able to ask more pointed questions, clarify differences (as well as similarities), and share the Gospel with him. He seemed surprised at some of the things we did and didn't believe, and was vulnerable enough to tell us when he didn't have answers to certain questions. We ended on a positive note, as we encouraged him to seek truth (and he us). And I got his email address, so I can keep in touch...which I will!

There's a spiritual battle taking place in this great nation, something greater than we realize. Our brothers and sisters need our prayers, our partnership and our willingness to step out and become part of the battle in some measurable way. Peoples' lives hang in the balance and we have opportunity to come alongside those committed here and stand with them in the fight. Will you pray for Impact Canada (www.impactcanada.org), for the Churchill Meadows church, for the Tunes and other workers here? Will you consider coming on a short-term trip to serve and encouage those who live out this challenge each day? And will you commit to becoming more of a world Christian, looking beyond your own yard to the harvest field before you?

"Do you not say, 'Four months more and then the harvest? I tell you, open your eyes and look at the fields! They are ripe for harvest!'" -Jesus

GO, Canada!

2011-05-29T21:07:00.000-07:00

Well, it wasn't easy at times, but our Toronto GO! TEAM made it out of Orange County and into Canada! We took off Friday morning from LAX with no problem, making a connection in Chicago. That ongoing flight was delayed an hour (no big deal)and we made it into Toronto by 10:00 pm. Edmundo Lucido, the admin pastor of Churchill Meadows Christian Church (our host) met us there and took us to pick up the car we rented. Once onto the freeway, we got ready for the 20+ minute trip to nearby Mississauga, a suburb of Toronto with a population of more than 700,000. However, even through it was a late Friday night, freeway construction squeezed everything down to a choke point (one lane), and our short jaunt took nearly two hours! Weary but undeterred, we made it to our accommodations, met our hosts and settled in for a short time of rest.

Saturday began with a great breakfast time with Jim Tune, senior pastor of CMCC and president of Impact Canada (the church planting organization with whom we partner). He clued us into the spiritual situation in Canada, the heart of Impact Canada and the beginnings of CMCC. We even got to sample REAL Canadian bacon, called peameal bacon. Wow! What a difference from our faux product in the US!

We took off from there for our one free day outing- a drive to Niagara Falls, about a 60-mile drive through beautiful countryside.

The Falls was an unbelievable display of God's handiwork and we were blessed to take it in. But the evening was even better. We got back to the church about 5:30 and bumped into the Polish church plant pastor, who meets with his small group on campus. Gregory invited us to meet with his group that evening, as they were gathering to watch a Joni Ericson DVD in Polish. We were so blessed by our time with these believers! So much sharing of life and encouragement between us all, even with language limitations. The four of us agreed that this was even greater than what we had experienced earlier in the day.

Sunday's two services at CMCC were outstanding. This congregation, newly moved into its current outrageously outstanding facility, numbers about 600- that's mega-church size in Canada. And the ethnic/cultural diversity is overwhelming. At least 46 nations or people groups are represented in the church, all moving and working together as one, and all for God's glory. It's like looking at a small piece of heaven when they gather to worship!

Jim and his wife, Claudia, took us to an Indian dinner where they shared their story, and we were able to see their heart for God and His Kingdom. It was challenging to hear them and know that the burden they have, not just for their city, but for their country and world, is one that needs to be shared by each of us if we're going to complete the task of proclaiming the good news message to all peoples in all places.

Our opening weekend was a great one. And the week promises to be even greater. We'll fill you in on it as it happens- will you remember to lift us in prayer? Specifically ask the Father that we would have opportunity and courage to share with those who need to know the Lord's love. Thanks! More soon...

Rock the Moat!

2010-11-06T00:22:00.001-07:00

We arrived in one (stiff!) piece yesterday in Globe, ready to work with Arizona Reservation Ministries (ARM). We went out on the "fun bus," which is what the kids call it, and had probably 40+ onboard for Bible lesson, games, crafts and snacks. Then we played with them on the playground, avoiding the myriad of glass shrapnel until sunset.

Today we began with a prayer journey, where Diana Lawrence, co-director of ARM, drove us through several of the rez neighborhoods, shared stories and gave us items to pray for. There are always tears in our eyes before we're finished because the situation is so difficult for us to wrap our heads around. And yet we know we need to hear it all, to enter into some level of understanding that we didn't have before, and to feel for a people's plight in a real and ongoing way.

After the prayers, four of the team left to work on a house being built with/for an Apache family. The rest of us found the rock pile on ARM's property. We spent the better part of the day moving rocks to fill giant baskets being set into a bridge. The bridge is being built to access the property across a culvert that fill during the rains. But the county is requiring that the bridge be built according to specs designed for a hundred-year flood that hasn't happened in...well, awhile. I'm telling you, if a nuclear holocaust hits, the cockroaches that we're told will survive will do so by being on this bridge, because it's not going anywhere!

We're tired tonite. Tired, sore and full of questions about circumstances that are so much greater than we can change. It's obvious the answers to needs around us here won't be solved by governments (ours or theirs), or better economics. The deeper issues sure seem to be spiritual, and if that's true, there's only one person who can make that difference. And I'm thankful He's working in ways that are going to produce change in lives. Not just theirs, but ours as well, as we continue to connect with life here.

Thanks for the prayers. Please lift us up tomorrow, as we are helping host a "Family Fun Day" in a local park. We're looking for 150-200 kids and adults to come and spend time laughing, sharing and finding a ray of hope in the midst of much struggle. We want to be difference-makers for people who mean so much to their Heavenly Father. Pray that we will be just that.

- Posted far too late at night because we ran all day.

Location:San Carlos Apache Reservation

GO! Team Heading to San Carlos

2010-11-02T20:36:00.000-07:00

Our next Global Outreach (GO!) Team is getting ready to hit the road this Thursday morning, bound for the San Carlos Apache Reservation and Arizona Reservation Ministry, located in Globe (about 90 mi. east of Phoenix). ARM has been working since 2002 with the San Carlos Apache, building houses, ministering to kids on the youth buses, and connecting with Apache leaders and believers on the reservation.

There are 12 of us on this team, and our hope will be to spend time with kids, help with home-building (some of us do worse at that than others!), help host a picnic/family day on Saturday, and return on Sunday. Please keep us in prayer as we drive, serve, share, and learn lessons God has waiting for us. There is great spiritual warfare in this place and an unusually abundant supply of hopelessness among adults and youth alike. Pray that our lives, our words, and our actions will demonstrate the hope of Jesus in a way that will make people want to know more. We'll update you as we go, both here and on Facebook.

Looking Again at Kenya

2010-10-25T11:08:00.000-07:00

Thought you might enjoy a couple of short video clips taken while we were in Kenya. One is of Pastors Josh (from Parkcrest), William ( from Masii) and me while walking in Masii town. The other is from the top of our vehicle as we bumped through the Maasai Mara on a beautiful Saturday afternoon safari. Hope you enjoy them!

Oh, Kenya!

2010-10-20T22:32:00.000-07:00

It's just hard to believe. Hard to believe we've been back from Kenya for a little more than a week now. It seems like we were just there, yet in some ways it seems like a long time ago. Guess that's the way these experiences usually play themselves out in our lives. And yet, even though Kenya may seem a million miles away at times, there are memories and lessons we gathered there that will be close to our hearts as long as we draw breath.

We learned about trust in God and finding our satisfaction in his grace, regardless of what we have or don't have. About the ways he takes care of us, even in the hardest of struggles. About showing hospitality and warmth to strangers who come and stay awhile. And about taking care of each other, because that's the one debt we owe on a daily basis.

We had the chance to serve in ways that may have been outside our comfort zones, and we discovered that it wasn't as tough as we thought it was going to be. We learned to work outside our cultural parameters, stretching in new ways and finding newly appropriate methods for sharing the love and message of God. And we even picked up some new vocabulary terms, some in Kiswahili and some in Kikamba- just ask Samaki (aka Jeremy) how to say "fish!"

As much as anything else, we saw firsthand the impact and power of a ministry like Tumaini. Children and families with little or no hope have found a new outlook and future for themselves. They have a reason to persevere, and reason to hope again. And we get to continue to be a part of it all.

You need to know that $35 monthly sponsors a Kenyan AIDS orphan. This provides the bulk of educational and material needs for a child, and makes a more promising tomorrow a reality. You may not be able to change the world, but you can change the world of one family for about a dollar a day. Would you consider becoming a sponsor, if you haven't done so already? Find out more at www.tumainiinternational.org.

Here are some pictures of one the greatest trips we've ever taken!

Daktari Ron with local dental license

Sharing with hooch-makers in "Kosovo"

Oh, those lazy kings!

Louise, Wambua, & the home we'll rebuild

The 3 Preaching Amigos- Josh, William, & Mike

The boys in Nairobi- Bill, Daktari Ron & Josh

Watching the elephants was a sacred experience!

Delivering food to a Tumaini family

"Fast Mary" beating the local boy!

Our Kenyan Home Stretch

2010-10-10T08:56:00.000-07:00

It's happened again. Just like in other trips, the finish line has snuck up on us and we're looking at completing our experience almost as quickly as we began.

We wrapped up our work in Masii on Friday and said our good-byes. That was a tough one. One little street girl, Vicky, grabbed Josh's fingers and refused to let go. I thought I heard his heart break in that moment. And when other kids were waving and cheering as we pulled out, Vicky held her head in her hands and refused to look. We felt much the same.

After spending that night in Nairobi, we caught a flight to Maasai Mara in the southwest part of Kenya, for a couple of days of real safari. And I can tell you that this experience is unparalleled with anything I've ever done. We've gotten up close and personal with lions, cheetahs, hippos, elephants, giraffes, buffalo and zebra, to name a few. But you know, as overwhelming as this has been, processing and wrapping our hearts and minds around what we experienced in Nairobi and Masii is an even greater challenge for us.

We debriefed again last night about what we've been through and agreed that God provided so much in such a short period of time that we haven't been able to sort it all out yet. But we did agree that Tumaini is doing a great job of not only providing AIDS orphan sponsorship, but of hope for the future as well. That the Kenyan people need the love of God in a real way, and are very open to receiving it. That Tumaini's use of holistic ministry is key to presenting the gospel to east Africa in a way that makes sense. And that we want to keep ridin' the Tumaini bus as it rolls on down this road.

Thanks to all of you who have given, prayed, encouraged and followed this team in any way the last few weeks. You are part of this experience and we appreciate your place in our lives. We still have some miles to go before we touch down at LAX Tuesday afternoon at 12:40, so keep praying for us. That we'll have the chance to share with one more person about God's love and hope for them. That we'll learn just one more lesson. That we'll hear God's voice one more time.

And that maybe we'll see just one more lion.

A Voice in Kenya

2010-10-06T14:24:00.000-07:00

I heard God's voice today.

Our devotional booklet has focused on learning to hear the voice of God, and I've been working on that during the trip. Before leaving for home visits this morning, I asked God specifically to help me hear his voice today. Our visitations to Tumaini kids and their families took us to a number of homes, some of them with very little. But one was different than the others.

Louise is a grandmother raising her two grandchildren, Rachel and Wambua, because their mom died several years ago through HIV AIDS. Dad's still around, but is sickly and probably has the disease as well. In addition to this loss, Louise has lost other children, one who died giving birth and others to AIDS. She is a faithful believer, a widow, and probably more than 70 years old. She struggles just to make sure her family is taken care of. And Tumaini helps.

Her home consists of a few brick and mud structures that appear little more than small storage sheds. But she and the kids have used them for shelter since last April. It was during heavy rains then that another small brick and mud structure in which they were sleeping began to collapse. Some of the walls gave way in the downpour as the children began screaming, "We're dead! We're dead!" Somehow, walls that should have fallen on them didn't and they were spared.

As Louise shared her story and we surveyed the half-collapsed home, Stanley said quietly to me, "Tumaini doesn't typically involve itself in building homes, but I believe God wants us to rebuild this one." It was then God spoke to my heart and said, "You- you and people you know- make sure this home is redone and this family is safe." I stood there quietly considering the situation. How could we not? I acknowledged what I believed I heard, told Stanley what God had laid on my heart, and asked how much it would cost. He said he would have estimates and a man ready to begin in a couple of days, but he thought it should be about $700. I calmly thought, "Our missions budget can probably afford that."

Then I heard God's voice again. "No," he clearly told me, "Not just from your budget. I want greater awareness and ownership from others. I want you to ask and involve people."

Really. That's what he told me.

So there it is. I believe with all my heart God heard my prayer this morning and spoke to me. It's not exactly what I was expecting (I'm not sure just what I was expecting), but he spoke. And I'm kinda excited, because he's either spoken, speaking, or going to speak to someone else about his or her part in this. If you think God might be speaking to you, let me know. Soon. More rains are on the way and this family needs assistance before something else falls.

It's not about the money. It's about listening. And responding. I'm trying to hear him and follow what I believe he's saying to me. It's not always easy. Too many voices, too many distractions, too much talking on my part. But I know something for sure tonight.

I heard God's voice today.

Of Celebration, Goats, and Tooth in Advertising

2010-10-04T13:45:00.000-07:00

Wow! What a blast! That seems to be the general consensus of the team as we hit this full week of ministry at full speed. First was our time with the Masii Christian Chapel Sunday morning (into afternoon!). Being part of a time of corporate worship in another culture can be nothing short of amazing, and our experience was no exception. The warmth, the energy, the power and the excitement of worship and praise left us wanting more. Josh Chavez preached a powerful message (with the translating help of brother Stanley) and we immersed ourselves in Kenyan culture for a few hours. It's something we'll hold onto for a long, long time.

Today three worked on peoples' teeth while the rest of us loaded supplies and visited some of the kids sponsored by KACC and Parkcrest churches. It took all day to visit six homes- and we should have had my jeep for the roads errr, trails we took to get to our destinations. We met the families (usually grandparents) of these children, caregivers who have stepped up in the wake of the deaths of the kids' parents due to AIDS. And we saw happy, thriving environments where the challenges of raising a second generation has been offset by the joy of seeing God's hand working among them.

A couple of today's gems:
- Mary Flores made such a great impression on one of our visitations that she was bargained for by the family. They decided they would give 36 goats in trade to have her remain with them! We told Mary that she should be honored, as this is a great deal to give on her behalf! A couple of our guys were pretty hungry in the moment, and the prospect of fresh goat meat (and lots of it) sounded good, but they decided it was still too little for the lone woman on our team!

- Daktari Ron Jurgensen (our dentist) was examining a woman who wanted two teeth pulled. As he looked into her mouth he immediately saw that there were actually three, side-by-side, that needed to come out. His translator, Esther, tried to tell that to the patient, but she insisted on only two. Ron, in his great compassion for relieving pain and problem, suggested to Esther that they go ahead and pull the three and tell her that they got the two...to which the patient said in clear English, I said I only wanted two pulled! Ouch! Forgot that she just might understand English, and got busted big time! So two were pulled, if a bit sheepishly!

Thanks for prayers and support. Much is happening, and much is yet to happen. Pray that we hear God's voice and sense His direction as we serve these wonderful people. Right now, we feel like some of the most fortunate people in the world...and indeed we are.

First Report...Good News from Kenya!

2010-10-02T14:02:00.000-07:00

I apologize for taking this long to post a blog about the team. The first week here has been extremely eventful in so many ways. Not only did it take us an extra 11 hours and an extra city to reach Nairobi (a saga in itself!), but we lost Stanley Mutunga as we boarded our flight in NYC. Seems someone for Delta decided he needed more pages in his passport and removed him from the flight until he could get more added. We landed Thursday morning instead of Wednesday evening, and Stanley arrived Friday night!

Nairobi was a quick but eye-opening experience. We journied into Mathare, a slum of about 800,000 (and only the second largest in the city!). There we visited two ministries- WEEP (Women's Equality and Empowerment Project), and Community Transformers. WEEP trains women with HIVAIDS with tailoring skills. These new abilities allow them to provide for their families, and provides value for them in their communities. It gives them a reason to live and a hope for their futures. Community Transformers was started by a group of HIV+ young people who, upon their conversions to Christ, banded together, to remain in Mathare, and now minister to others who may not have the hope of Christ. Both works challenged and encouraged us as we saw the impact of Christ in the most serious of situations.

We moved on to Masii (a couple hours south) Friday and set up shop at the Tumaini Center. Dr. Ron saw and treated a handful of patients as we settled in. Then today (Saturday) we shared in a program put on by and for our nearby Tumaini children. There were familiar faces throughout the crowd, as Ron briefly examined each child and then took care of a small number of them who needed care.

Today (Saturday) we shared in a program for those Tumaini kids who live close by. There was singing, praying, testimonies food and laughter as we caught up with kids whom some of us have known for years, as well as met new children. Ron examined each child briefly, then treated a small number who needed his help.

We are already sensing God's hand upon us as He opens our eyes to a world so much bigger than what we know. Hearing stories of faith in impossible circumstances, seeing hope in the eyes of those most would have forgotten, discovering our oneness in spite of ovbious differences makes an indelible imprint upon our spirits. The stories and lives they represent remind us of a great and powerful God who is working in the most impossible of situations to show people His great compassion and care. We are blessed to be part of it.

Tomorrow will be worship and celebration together as God's people, and we can hardly wait to experience them with our Kenyan family. One thing's for sure: for all the ways we're different, we sure have a lot of the same needs, hopes and desires. And that common bond in Christ takes us beyond our surface issues and differnces, straight to the heart of God.

Can you think of a better place to be?

The Hope of Tumaini

2010-09-28T03:06:00.001-07:00

It's 2:30 a.m. and I'm awake. Preparing for our early morning flight that will take us (eventually) to Kenya. That's where we'll spend the next couple of weeks working with Tumaini International Ministries. Tumaini, founded by Stanley and Rose Mutunga, is a Kiswahili word that means hope. Their focus is to come alongside AIDS orphans, through sponsorship, education and encouragement, and walk with them in their journeys toward adulthood. These kids have lost one or both parents to AIDS, and usually live with grandparents, other relatives or friends. Life is hard at best, and sponsorship ($35 monthly) makes the difference between failure and success for hundreds of children, both young and old.

We'll leave LAX at 8:00 today and touch down in Nairobi about 7:30 Wednesday night (11 hours ahead of LA time). All Thursday and Friday morning will be in this capital city of 4+ million, as we will visit different ministry sites in one of the largest slums in Africa. Then Friday we'll travel 2-3 hours south and east, to the small community of Masii, where Tumaini has its offices. Doctor Ron Jurgensen (my favorite dentist!) is with us again and we'll pull teeth for a week for those who'll walk for hours just to sit in his chair and find the relief his skills can bring. We'll also visit some of the children that our church sponsors, as well as meet with the new church there as they are designing strategies for planting a church in the nearby city of Machakos. It promises to be a great couple of weeks.

Our team of seven includes KACC and Parkcrest Christian Church (7th St. campus, Long Beach), and our desire is to continue to partner with Parkcrest in this ministry of compassion and church planting. Please pray for us as we travel, adjust, connect and serve. Pray for divine appointments with those who need to hear good news, and for boldness to share. Pray for unity within our team a life-changing experience...for Kenyans and Americans alike.

I recently read some words in Psalms that spoke to me in a fresh way about Tumaini:

He [God] raises the poor out of the dust,

And lifts the needy out of the ash heap,

That He may seat them with princes-

With the princes of His people.

Psalm 113:7,8

Tumaini's work has lifted hundreds of children and adults alike from the dust, from life's ash heap, and is even now preparing a new generation to sit with leaders and movers of their land. Because they're giving an opportunity to those who needed it. Because they're giving compassion and care to many for whom no one else cares. Because they're giving a vision to many who had lost sight of their futures.

Because they're giving hope.

Time with a Kiwi

2010-09-09T09:30:00.002-07:00

I was blessed in a special way last week. Hamish Taylor was in town and we met for breakfast and dinner, to find out what God had been doing in our lives. Hamish is part of South Pacific Christian Fellowship, and leads a church planting team in Christchurch, New Zealand. I visited their work last year, as they were in preparation for the launch of a new church in that city, and we (KACC) committed to their financial support for this endeavor. I was impressed with the team of three couples (Hamish is Kiwi, the rest are from the States) and their vision and plan for a new congregation.

Their first service was held in February of this year and currently they are consistently averaging 50-60, with a number of baptisms and outreach contacts growing. This is more significant than it may sound, as New Zealand is far more secular than the US in its religious thinking. Hamish told me that probably only 5%+ of the country's population attends church on a given weekend. Suicide rates are high, as are substance abuse numbers. Christianity has lost much of its relevance through the years, and there needs to be a rethinking and recasting of the vision of and for God's people and work in this island nation.

This is probably why the team chose to name their work "Rechurch," to signify that theirs was to be a new and fresh way to see the hand of God in their lives. And it's working! People, young families especially, are being drawn to this concept. They are discovering relationships and views that are different than what they had imagined, or had seen in the past. Rechurch is impacting lives for Christ and is growing.

Hamish and I enjoyed several hours of fellowship that morning and evening, and I was refreshed by our time together (as I hope he was). He's home now, back with family and team. Back with his church and mission. Back to what moves him. And to what is moving his people. Please keep him and the team in prayer as they continue to move forward. Pray for open doors, for receptive hearts, for favor with people around them. Pray for ongoing financial support, for protection against the schemes of the evil one, for strength in the battle. Pray for this small but influential nation and for its collective heart to open again to the Lord. You can learn more about Rechurch and the team at http://www.rechurch.co.nz/.

PS- Hamish left just prior to the earthquake that hit Christchurch last week. He wrote and told me that they are all OK, but there is much to do in response to this disaster.

Run and Fun

2010-07-09T07:55:00.001-07:00

So much to tell you and so little space! Let me catch you up a bit:

After Sunday's service at Ann St. we loaded up a bus and hit the road for Eidsvold, a small, rural and largely indigenous community about 6 hours from Brisbane in the bush. We've been making the trek to this town since 2005, and Ann St. continues to visit throughout the year. Our goal is to connect in significant ways with people (especially youth) through our Christian Centre there. Although we have no congregation presently in Eidsvold, our arrival signals that there will be activity for a few days! Kids and adults we've come to know begin to come over and they bring friends.

One of my (Mike) highlights was teaching about 25 kids some songs for a Tuesday evening program put on for their folks. It was simple. really. I taught them "Lord, I Lift Your Name on High" and "Father, I Adore You." Nothing new for us, but apparently new for them. They not only learned those songs and asked to sing them again and again, but recalled what they had learned last year ("I Like Bananas") and taught that to me!

Tuesday evening we hosted a community bbq (no shrimp, but plenty of sausage!) and then our program. The kids did a great job and Edgar shared his testimony with the crowd. He gave an invitation for people to give their lives to Christ, and at least three responded! The time of sharing afterward and the days that followed was also full of opportunity and openness.

Leaving Eidsvold was tough on Thursday (it always is) because friendships had been formed and strengthened, and some were just now opening their lives to some of our team. We will continue to grow those relationships while we are apart, believing God will use what we offer to do more than we could imagine.

Today (Friday) was our experience with NAIDOC- National Aboriginal and Islander Day Of Celebration. It is a time of recognition for indigenous Australia, as they remember and rejoice in their heritage. We spent the day at a downtown park, along with many hundreds of people. The festive air and chances to learn more about this integral part of Aussie culture were exciting for us and we reveled in rubbing shoulders with such wonderful folks. And tonite we traveled the downtown part of the Brisbane River of the City Cat transport boat. It's a beautiful (and cold!) run up and down the heart of the city- a can't miss kind of thing.

Tomorrow Ann St. hosts a regular event, "Big Day Out." We will pack up a group and head to a local rain forest for a bit of a bushwalk, lunch and time together. In the past they have taken upwards of 50 to such experiences, but this time we have about 100 signed up! Should be exciting figuring out how to make transport and logistics work, but it's a great challenge!

We thank you for your prayers and concern for us. We are all doing well and are daily growing in our love and appreciation of this culture and people. We see God's imprint all over the place, even though society is more secular than ours in almost every way. Those with whom we talk are open, friendly and often interested in talking about spiritual matters. There are great challenges, to be sure, but great potential as well. And that's where we can be used! Please continue to pray as we finish well this weekend. I will speak Sunday morning- ask God to make His power and message understood in a fresh way, and that people will respond to His prompting. Thanks!

Pictures...

1. Our mob at Eidsvold the day we left

2. Team at South Bank, downtown Brisbane

3. Tim and Edgar walking through South Bank

4. Gorgeous view from the City Cat

5. Aboard a cold boat at night!

Of Rugby, Skittles, and BBQs

2010-07-03T08:34:00.001-07:00

Posted late Saturday, after two full days in the city:

We've had a couple of days with complete agendas- different activities in various locations, but a common thread throughout. Let me share a quick rundown...

Friday's highlights included prayer for the city, as we prayer-walked in the downtown area around Ann St. Church of Christ. We learned about the city's history, along with challenges and opportunities that come with ministering in an urban location. We also attended a Brisbane Broncos rugby match. You need to be at an Australian sporting event to truly understand the passion people have for games here!

Today we drove 22 km. (about 13 mi.) to the suburb of Redcliffe to spend time with a bunch of the Ann St. youth and young adults. We fished (more fishing with little catching!), played touch footy (rugby) and Skittles, a Torres Strait Islander game. Great fun! Our lunch together was good, even with high winds and cold, cold temps.

We returned to Ann St. in the late afternoon to prepare for their monthly Community BBQ. Modeled after our own Community Supper, the BBQ is held on the front steps and sidewalk of the church, and many walking down the street stop for good food and sharing. There were several international students from our previous Wednesday, many homeless and a number of others from various walks of life. We had great conversations at many levels, with chances to share our faith with receptive listeners.

The commonality we sensed throughout our activities is the need of many to connect in significant ways. One of our team admitted an internal desire to complete tasks on trips like this, making sitting and listening to others' stories a tough job. But we all agreed that taking time to share life's journey together may be the most important task God will assign to us. For through these times and experiences He builds into peoples' lives the lessons He wants them to learn. One young man here told me he still has pictures of some of our team from three and four years ago in his room, and they encourage him in his walk. Others are eager to reconnect with those of us who've come before, picking up where we left off last year. Regardless of the particulars, the desire to share life in a significant way makes our time here of great value.

Please pray for us as we drive to Eidsvold (6 hrs. away) tomorrow following church. Pray for continued chances to connect (and reconnect) with many there, encouraging them and sharing the good news of life in Jesus with those who have yet to know it. We'll update you as we're able, connecting with you even as we do with those in our immediate view. Meanwhile, some recent pics...

Brittney, Mary and Daun at the Broncos game; our rugby match in action; Kyle and the guys getting ready for fish; Edgar posing with frozen friends; the team in prayer mode; many gathered for the BBQ; passing out the evening meal for our community.

Location:Brisbane, AU

Sharing What We've Seen

2010-07-01T07:17:00.000-07:00

Today was a workday for us. We spent the better part of the morning cleaning an indigenous (aboriginal) Christian center in Logan (a part of Brisbane. After lunch, we threw boomerangs with Goma, an aboriginal pastor and leader from the area. Then we cleaned the yard of a young woman in the Ann Street church who is recently widowed. In all these events, we had opportunities to connect (and reconnect) with brothers and sisters who encouraged us, even as we sought to be an encouragement to them.

I want to share two video clips with you that will give you a taste of some of what we are doing here. The first is a short demonstration of shepherding skills using border collies; the second, our friend Goma showing us how to play the didgeridoo. I hope you enjoy seeing them as much as we did being able to be here in person for them!

Rising Up Down Under

2010-06-30T23:55:00.000-07:00

The team rolled into Brisbane yesterday, a bit weary from its travels (14+ hrs. LA- Melbourne, 3 hrs. there following customs and transfer to our domestic flight, and nearly 2 hrs. Melbourne- Brisbane), but excited to see everyone and begin to get down to business.

After a pretty good night's rest, we hit the road for some local Aussie sights and experiences. We spent a good part of the day at the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, where we got up close and personal with creatures unique to this great nation. We experienced kangaroos, koalas, wombats, platypuses (or is that platypi?!), kookaburras, tasmanian devils, emus, pythons, crocs, and cassowaries first-hand...and loved every minute of it. It helped us see again the creative and imaginative hand of God our Creator.

The evening was given to a weekly meeting held at Ann Street Church, designed for international students who want to learn English and make friendship connections. This group runs anywhere from 12 to 45, and there were more than 15 with us tonight (from places such as Korea, Taiwan, China, Japan and France) as we engaged in "speed chatting" and a giant Scrabble game. We had multiple opportunities to share our faith with different young people, and made some blessed connections.

We see God's fingerprints all over this place and we're excited to be part of what He's doing here. We agreed that it would be easy to let our spiritual guards down a bit because life here seems so similar to our own culture, but that the spiritual warfare is every bit as intense in this place as it is anywhere else. So we pray that we will be stretched and challenged, that we find open doors, and that we courageously live out and speak out the message of hope and life that Jesus brings. Would you join us in praying for these needs in our lives while we're here?

Thanks, and good on ya!

Pics: 1. Team hanging out with some of the locals; 2. Border collie meeting the girls; 3. Posing with newly-shorn wool; 4. Edgar and his little buddy; 5. "Kookaburra sits in the old gum tree..." 6. Brittney checking out Aussie bike racks; 7. Kyle introduces the team; 8. Scrabble in a whole new way!

Location:Brisbane, AU

where in the world are we going?

2010-06-24T12:45:00.001-07:00

As we approach the end of June (and the beginning of our summer), two Knott Avenue Global Outreach (GO!) Teams are making preparations for experiences in different parts of the world.

Our Australia Team will be in Brisbane June 27-July 12. We will partner again with our own Daun Slauson and the Ann Street Church of Christ, working with them as they reach those in their world. Team members (left to right) are Edgar Garcia, Mary Flores, Kyle Marsh, Brittany Hughey, Leslee Marvin and Mike Carman.

Our Montana Team (Larry and Joyce Clasen, Kelly and Judy Kappen, Carol Hall, Lorraine Dupray, Jim and Maureen Wilke and John and Connie Bergsto [not pictured]) will be in Kalispell, MT June 30- July 14, working at the Youth With a Mission (YWAM) base there. This training center is led by Jeff and Kristi Wilke from KACC, and the team will be busy with projects ranging from office help to building and construction needs.

Pray for these teams as they travel, serve, connect and pour themselves out because of the good news they've come to know. Pray for divine appointments with people who need the hope and encouragement that Jesus brings. Pray for team unity and a spirit of oneness. Pray for their families who will carry on here in their absence. And for lessons to be learned and lives changed, both among those who go and among those to whom they go.

Romans 10 tells us that those who bring good news have beautiful feet. How great to know that KACC has several with such gorgeous feet this summer! Check back here throughout the trips for updates and encouragement. And while you're at it, why not show off your own pretty feet? Wherever you find yourself, take the opportunity to deliver a message of hope, life and good news to those around you. After all, you don't have to get on an airplane to make a difference in this world!

one last look

2009-07-06T01:03:00.000-07:00

And as quickly as it came, so it's nearly finished (for me, at least- one final Aussie sunset for me on right). The team is now in Eidsvold, having left yesterday (Sunday) afternoon. I, on the other hand, am winging my way back to sunny SoCal, as our son, Jon, is making plans to get married Saturday. Currently sitting in the Auckland airport, I've been reflecting on some of the events, meetings, reunions, introductions, lessons, and laughter of the last two weeks.

I began in Christchurch, New Zealand, meeting a church planting team with which KACC has begun a partnership. From there I arrived in Brisbane a few days ahead of the team. Time to catch up with friends there, including our missionary Daun Slauson. The Ann Street Church has been going through a rough patch the last 6 months of so, and as they emerge the better for it, I was able to share with them over some of the issues and upcoming direction.

You'd be proud of the team and the job they're doing connecting with people around them. They've had many meaningful conversations and opportunities to talk about the good news of Jesus, and they've stepped up each time (that's Sarah Bishop sharing in church). They've been wholehearted into everything they've done (and they've done a lot already!), and have not shrunk back from any challenge set before them. Pray for their time in Eidsvold (they'll be there until Thursday) as they continue to deepen relationships with many (especially youth) who need to know so much about God's love and desire for them.

And as usual, I take my leave with the usual tearing inside, excited to head home (I miss my family tons!), but having to leave brothers, sisters and opportunities in this place of ministry. When I got to the airport here in NZ, I did something different, for me anyway. I stopped inside the chapel for awhile. One thing I was counting on- and I wasn't disappointed- I was by myself!

I was able to read Scripture and pray aloud, and even sing some praises aloud (but quietly!). I can't express to you just how valuable that time was for my spirit. I was able to begin putting thoughts together from my experience and talk with God about what lies ahead. I took time to thank Him again for the last few weeks, and lift up the team as they continue on. And I was reminded how much I need to stop like this in my daily life and cry out to Him about issues on my heart, hear Him speak to me, and find the still waters from which He wants to feed me. I understand again the need for Sabbath rest, and though I'm not good at doing it, I'm making this a point for my own growth when I get back.

As I contemplated in that chapel my ministry- the "why" of what I do- I found Matthew 16 and read again the words of Jesus. He said," What would it profit a man if he gained the whole world but forfeited his own soul? What is more valuable than a human soul?" And I saw again why I do what I do. Because there's nothing of greater value than a human soul. Jesus proved it in his death, and I want to make sure my life revolves around that same value, the value of a life. That's why we're out here with brothers like John and Eugene (on right). That's why we take time to introduce people to the grace and hope of God. Because they matter so much to Him. Because they're worth more than anything in this world. Because Jesus came for them just as He did for us. Doesn't matter if they're American or Australian. Kiwi,indigenous or islander. Up-and-comers or down-and-outers. They all matter to God. And therefore they must matter to us. So we'll continue to go, share, work, weep, love, laugh and serve. Could there be any greater investment?

Not a chance.

1 Night, 2 Cultures, 1 Message

2009-07-04T06:58:00.000-07:00

Now that's what I'm talking about. What a great evening. We helped serve Ann Street's monthly Community BBQ to their neighbors on the street, something they've been doing a couple of years now. They adapted the concept from our own Community Suppers, but with a twist. First, they barbecue the meat they serve (since they barbecue just about everything but spaghetti!). Then, because of logistics, they serve the meal on the front steps of the church, right out on the sidewalk. This has proven quite successful, as many have come simply because they were passing by at the right time.

Tonight we had about 60 men and women show up, most of them living on or nearly on the streets. Many had great stories to share and were eager to talk to a group of Yanks. I was proud of our team, as they worked tirelessly preparing the meal. We found out Ligaya, on left, is a chef from the Hilton, and she really made the presentation of the meal shine! After preparing, the group set up and served the crowd. I then looked around and found everyone sitting and sharing with those who came to eat. What a great and satisfying sight- I was blessed.

Following the dinner, we hurried over to another church hall to catch the end of celebratory dances of the Torres Strait Islander people. It's their yearly observance of the coming of the Bible to their islands in 1871, and is called The Festival of the Coming of the Light. We got to see about 30 minutes of dancing that had been going on since 2:00 p.m. today! It was a real cultural treat to sit with these people as they remember and give thanks for the Scriptures' entrance into their society.

Two cultural experiences, each different from the other. Each with an acknowledgement of God (for the most part), yet with an always-present need to know Him more fully. Each with hopes, dreams and struggles that can't be dealt with alone. Each with a desire to somehow do and be better tomorrow. Each with a story, a journey, and a destination. And tonight, each with a group from somewhere halfway around the world connecting, learning, serving and sharing the love of Jesus like it makes a difference.

Because it does.

It's a Beautiful Day

2009-07-03T08:33:00.000-07:00

Who knew having a good time could be so much work?! In the last few days we've ridden, bustled, interacted, learned, served, laughed, dozed, played, shared, listened, and connected (just to name a few of the verbs!) here in Brisbane. Wednesday we spent the morning with youth from Ann Street learning to play cricket (you think baseball's slow?!), then learned to throw boomerangs in the afternoon. We crowned Jamie the stud of the day, as he played some mean cricket, and threw and caught boomerangs- at least a few of them- with the ability of a local. Most of us simply threw sticks.

Yesterday we went on a bushwalk (about 3 miles, I think), again with Ann Street young people. We were in a rain forest outside the city, and we enjoyed being a part of perhaps the most beautiful creation some of us have ever seen. After lunch we went to another park (there are so many of them in this city) and played games with the kids. This bonding time is so important, as many of them will travel to Eidsvold with us next week. Today we cleaned the grounds around and indigenous Christian Center in a city of metro Brisbane. We cut trees, trimmed bushes, moved wood, disposed of cane toads (ask the boys about it- ugh!), cleaned under the church house (another ugh!) and generally shaped the place up. The afternoon saw us head to the Gold Coast where we spent the evening together.

Our time so far has allowed us to unite as a team as we've gotten to know each other. We've also been able to know better our hosts and the church with which we're partnering. And we'll travel to Eidsvold Sunday afternoon, after spending tomorrow learning about aboriginal history, working our way through downtown on foot, and helping with the church's Community BBQ. All we have done and will do has one goal- connecting us with people here, and giving us the chance to share with them the message of life we have in Jesus. It's a sorely needed message and we pray for open doors and boldness as we go out. In this great place. With these great new friends. With our great God.

Hey, it's tough work, but somebody's gotta do it.

2009-07-01T08:20:00.000-07:00

Communication is always interesting in another culture. In some countries it's obvious that we don't speak the same language at all and we have to work at basic concepts. In others, we share a common language and it's much easier (or so we think!).

I saw this sign on the streets of Brisbane (double-click pic to enlarge), and my sideways humor couldn't resist thinking, "I wonder how they actually know that they should cross at that intersection?!" Now I recognize the sign is really for the benefit of drivers, and not pedestrians, but for just a moment I saw that what was undoubtedly clear in the mind of the signmaker might not necessarily be understood as clearly in the mind of the reader. Ahhh, communication- it takes two, doesn't it?

Since Australia is an English-speaking nation, communication here is relatively simple and straightforward...or so you would think. There are, however, words and phrases unique to the culture. Some examples of unique/modified words include: fair dinkum (someone or something genuine); chook (chicken); billy (metal can used to boil tea over a fire); my shout (I'll pay this time); icy pole (popsicle); off with the fairies (daydreaming); sticky beak (nosy person); tuck shop (cafeteria); snag (sausage); whinge (complain); fairy floss (cotton candy); woop woop (far away); lollies (candy); yobbo (redneck); car park (parking lot); letter box (mailbox); arvo (afternoon); brekky (breakfast); rellies (relatives); and a host of others. Not everyone uses all such words, but some are commonplace and take some getting used to, especially if we want to understand and be understood clearly.

Which makes me think again about the way we communicate the Gospel, whether in our own culture or in another. There are words, terms and phrases that are common to us but may not make sense to those around us with little or no spiritual background. Of course, "church terminology" seems pretty much out (words like justification, sanctification, washed in the blood of the Lamb, redeemed, ransomed, etc). But there are other terms that we may think people do understand which may no longer be so clear. Think about words/ideas such as repent, commit, lord, savior, faith, hope, invite Jesus into your heart, saved, and even love. The definitions and concepts of what we might consider basic terms have shifted for many. And the great mistake we make is to assume everyone understands our words without making sure we're talking about the same things. Remember, communication isn't just about what you say, but what's received by your listener as well. It really does take two.

All this to say that you need to think about what you say AND how you say it. That just as we have to think through our words when in another culture, so you and I- even in our own surroundings- must realize that we're really speaking to another culture. An unchurched and often unaware culture. Choose your words in such a way that people will really get what you're trying to tell them, because in order to receive good news, they've got to understand it first.

And when you do, the person you're talking to might even think, "Good on 'im! He's a fair dinkum and a good mate, and I think I'll have 'im over for a cuppa and bikkies this arv to chase up this talk about Jesus!" (Good job on his part! He's a genuine guy and a friend, and I'll invite him for a cup of coffee [or tea] and cookies this afternoon and follow up on what he says about Jesus!)

Touch Down in Brisbane!

2009-06-30T03:28:00.000-07:00

Well, we made it! The team roared into Brisbane International Airport a little past 6 a.m. local time, following a nearly 13 hour flight from L.A. Three of us on the team were here to meet our crew, along with a goup of Aussies and Daun, our missionary.

Everything was rolling along until the team realized that one of our young ladies (Sarah) had her suitcase taken by mistake (a look-alike). Her attitude was outstanding, even if she did freak a bit on the inside, and before the day was over the mistake was realized and the bag returned! God is so good, even when people slip up. And truly, it's our response to the things that take place in our lives that matter far more than those actual events and activities. Because it's in such times that we find out the kind of person we really are. And we think the kind of person Sarah really is, is really quite special.

The day was spent depositing luggage in homes around the city, sharing meals together and visiting an animal sanctuary. While there we saw animals peculiar to this great nation...you know, wombats, Tasmanian devils, kagaroos, wallabies, koalas, emus and the like. We fed some, layed around with some, pet some, held some, backed off from some and took pictures of all. It was a great time, and a good way to work off the jet lag.

The team was returned to the homes of their host families for an evening meal, time to get acquainted, and (hopefully) an early bedtime. We'll need all the rest we can get, since we have youth games tomorrow, along with a boomerang-throwing session and a welcome meal at Ann Street. Please pray for the team's strength and stamina, as well as initial times of bonding with the young people with whom we'll be spending the next several days.

Here are a few photos of the group as we made our way through this first great day:

To the Land of Oohs and Oz

2009-06-28T07:16:00.000-07:00

Tonight's the night! Sunday, the 28th, our KACC GO! Team Australia boards a Quantas 747 and heads for 2 weeks in Brisbane. There are 16 total team members (some shown in this pic) and they'll have a group in the state of Queensland eagerly waiting their arrival.

Australia's a secular county that has seen declining interest and participation in Christianity for several years. And yet there's a spiritual hunger in the lives of many Aussies that is opening their hearts again to the words and path of Jesus. Our team will once again partner with the Ann Street Church of Christ in the heart of Brisbane (where our own Daun Slauson serves as a missionary!), joining them in sports and evangelistic outreaches to local youth, as well as in service projects. We'll serve alongside Ann Street as they host their monthly version of our Community Supper, will spend several days in an outback community building relationships with locals there as we share our message of life with them, and will even take in an Aussie Rules football game (seen on left)!

Our goal is to serve the Australian Church in every way possible as we learn about God's work (and our part in it) in another culture. We'll continue to build on relationships begun by prior teams and leave a good base on which future teams may continue to add. Please pray for our effectiveness as servants and witnesses, opportunities and boldness, safety and new life perspectives. And for lives to be touched for eternity- theirs and ours.

And check back here for updates through July 13. Good on ya!

Really Down Under

2009-06-24T06:16:00.000-07:00

As our summer is now here, we look forward to GO! Team opportunities with extended time in other cultures. Our Australia team is preparing to depart for Brisbane Sunday evening, the 28th, where they'll serve until July 6. I'll fill you in about that team and trip next blog.

But I wanted to let you know that I have gone ahead of that team, and will meet them in Brisbane next Tuesday morning when they arrive. I left last Sunday evening to spend some time in New Zealand before moving on to Australia. I made it to Christchurch, a city of 400,000+ Tuesday morning and met up with a team of three young church planting couples (pictured on right) who have come to this city on the South Island to establish a new work.

Partnering with South Pacific Christian Fellowship (www.spcfdownunder.com), and led by Hamish Taylor (himself a New Zealander, on left with Molly and Liam), this group arrived in April after an extensive search and refining process to determine where in NZ God would have them. Their goal is to launch a new congregation by February 21, 2010 and to see it at 200 or more by the following month. KACC is partnering with them in this endeavor, providing financial support and hoping to develop a relationship that will grow with them as they grow God's Kingdom.

I've been blessed with what I've seen and heard so far. We've driven through the city (Christchurch Cathedral seen on right), seen the area they're targeting, prayed over a dozen different possible meeting sites they're looking at (ranging from schools, businesses, old church buildings, and taverns), and talked about their plans and process. NZ is much like Australia, spiritually speaking. The culture is considered post-Christian, highly secular, with only 5%-10% of people attending any church. Spiritual interest may be low, yet people are looking for ways to connect in meaningful relationships. This team spends much time developing such connections, that they may introduce the people of Christchurch to the One who desires a relationship with them like no other.

Please pray for this team and the ambitious challenge before them. Pray for open hearts and open doors. Pray for protection from the evil one in the midst of the battle. Pray for clarity of vision, provision of funds and team unity as they press on. And please pray for me as well, as I spend another day here before leaving, that I might see more clearly the role God has for us in possible support and encouragement of this project, and beyond.

A home of their own

2009-04-24T23:09:00.001-07:00

Where to begin? Today started out with an early breakfast and then off to the reservation. Half of our group did a prayer journey, stopping in different locations, praying for each area they stopped in. The other half went out to a house under construction. We spent the morning, painting, electrical work, installing a tub surround, hanging doors, cutting the kitchen countertop and preparing the sink and faucet for installation. There is so much work to be done in such a short amount of time. In the afternoon we all headed to the Youth home only to find out at the last second that the kids there were headed out. It was frustrating because we were making real progress on the house we were working on and stopped to head out to the Youth Home. There was not enough time to go back to the house and restart our work so we decided to treat the team to Fry Bread! It is soooooo good! A new cafe opened on the reservation so we stopped in. God always has a plan! The waitress who took our order said “are you the one’s building houses?” That started an amazing conversation of how desperately she wanted a home. She was living with her father in his small house, with her 3 children, her sister and her sister’s children, and several other family members. She didn’t want to be the only one working and paying the bills for all of them and wanted a place where she could raise her girls. After hearing her story, I would have given her a home today. The staff at ARM has to go through many, many applications and make tough decisions, choices that can be heart wrenching. Please pray for the staff here as they go through this process, pray for wisdom and discernment, please pray for those who desire a home of their own, please pray that we will accomplish the tasks God has for us here and at home, please pray for the Apache people who do not know Christ, please pray.....

San Carlos Apache Reservation

2009-04-23T22:16:00.000-07:00

Well, we made it safe and sound. It was a long drive on top of an early morning. Having said that, it was an amazing day. We got to play with the kids at the same park we got to paint the playground equipment at. WOW, what a strange sentence that was...Anyway the paint was peeled off almost as soon as we painted it over a year and a half ago. When we got there we saw it was painted again, by a group of high school kids from San Carlos High. This time it has lasted over three months. Awesome! It just goes to show how God can change hearts and lives. I know he has opened my eyes. For the first time I can see a hope in the eyes of some of these kids, not all of them, but there is definitely a change.

Thank you God for opening my eyes.

Robert

Kenya in my Rearview

2009-04-21T23:58:00.000-07:00

As quickly as we got here, my time in Kenya has come to an end and I'm preparing to head back home today (Wednesday). Though our connection here was short, both Stanley and I believe it was of tremendous value, especially in the young life of our new church, Masii Christian Chapel. The opportunity for teaching and connection was rich, and will prove to be a valuable tool for this young congregation as they continue their formation and development. Please keep them and their pastor, William, in your prayers. They have a golden opportunity to bring a fresh look to the whole idea of the Church in their region...and people are already taking notice.

Tumaini Ministries continues to grow. I've been excited to meet several of the "kids" in Masii, Machakos and Nairobi. Actually, they aren't kids anymore. They've grown into young adults who are working, running businesses, finishing studies and already making their imprint on those around them. It's great to see a bit of the fruit that so many of you have invested in for the last few years. Please keep Tumaini and its leadership in prayer. They have much on their plate and God continues to open doors for them.

Finally, times like these always remind me just how good we have it. We take so much for granted, assuming that we will have things that are not always present for the rest of the world. You think our streets have potholes and need work? You should have your teeth rattled here for awhile as you get from one place to the next. Electricity is a staple, almost a right, to us. Loss of electrical current is common here, especially in outlying areas. And there's nothing you can do about it. We may have traffic and congestion, but the idea of crowded streets takes on a whole new dimension here (pic of a bit of traffic outside my hotel), especially in Nairobi. Driving (or riding!) here is not for the faint of heart. Even crossing these busy city streets is like a real-life game of Frogger! And make sure you look right and not left as you step off the curb, as traffic comes from the opposite way!

Sometime today, would you simply stop and take a few moments to thank God for the many blessings you have at your fingertips. And would you take inventory again of some of the everyday things you have and use that may seem commonplace to you? Things like hot, running water on demand, food on your table, a consistent dial tone, clean streets, somewhere certain to lay your head, stocked grocery stores and reliable transportation. Such seemingly simple things, and yet in much of the world these are the extras in life. Maybe God has blessed us with them so we might use the extra time and energy they create to invest in the lives of others in need.

Seems like more than a fair trade to me.

Things I Wish My Mother (or Pastor) Would Have Taught Me

2009-04-21T09:32:00.000-07:00

(Taking a timeout from a great Kenya trip to share a great, new book with you...)

Finally. A book that speaks to the stuff of life that Christians (and others) actually deal with. OK, I'm sure other books have been written that cover the same kinds of ideas, but I just read a new one that's fresh, timely and overdue.

Larry Osborne, pastor of North Coast Church in Vista, CA, and author of books such as Sticky Church, Leadership as a Team, and Spirituality for the Rest of Us, has another winner hitting the shelves (Amazon, Barnes & Noble, your favorite Christian bookstore) this week. It's called 10 Dumb Things Smart Christians Believe and it looks over and responds to ten common spiritual urban myths. This special sort of belief is described as "a belief, story, assumption or truism that gets passed along as a fact. In most cases the source is a friend, a Sunday School class, a Bible study, a devotional, a book, or even a sermon." (p.2,3)

Some myths in this category are minimally damaging ("God helps those who help themselves," or "Cleanliness is next to godliness" come to mind), but the ten Osborne targets have far greater ramifications for those caught up in them. Without going into detail on each (or any) of them, I can tell you that Larry takes each of these ways of thinking to task, dispelling the supposed truths surrounding them, pointing out the fallacies and dangers in each as he shares many pertinent life examples. He then provides a correct Biblical framework for each idea, complete with Scripture (in context, thankfully!) that helps to amplify and clarify.

Each chapter is a stand-alone piece of work, and the author deals with some issues more completely than others. I felt as I read the book that some of these topics have had greater life significance for Osborne, and they are probably the ones he attacks with even greater passion and depth. Although each chapter was helpful, I found his analysis surrounding the truths about forgiveness (ch.2), God's plans for our lives (ch.4), godly homes and the kids they produce (ch.5), and the meanings of life's valleys (ch.9) particularly insightful for my life and ministry.

There are valuable discussion questions for each chapter at the end of the book, which is a perfect idea, because this could make a GREAT small group study. The things tackled here are the stuff people either want or need to know, and I can easily envision a small group being a perfect venue in which to wrestle with them.

Whether you read it as a group or on your own, you need to get a copy of 10 Dumb Things... and chew on it awhile. It may surprise you, challenge you, even make you a bit angry or uncomfortable at times, but I guarantee it will strengthen your understanding of God's Word and will help you make better sense of ten "Christian" ideas that you may have wondered about (or maybe even bought into).

a weekend to remember

2009-04-19T23:43:00.000-07:00

Wow, what a weekend! Stanley and I spent Saturday and Sunday with the members (and neighbors) of Masii Christian Chapel, a new church planted because of the impact of Tumaini Ministries (www.tumainiinternational.org) in this part of the country. The congregation, begun in September, is excited and growing, looking to become a solid, Bible-based church that will plant daughter churches throughout the region (and beyond!).

Saturday's seminar drew more than 80 (some seen here on the right), and we discussed basic elements of the New Testament Church, namely baptism and the Lord's Supper. There was great interaction and interest as we went from mid-morning until the end of the day. Some of the teachings and concepts that you and I may take for granted are new thoughts and practices for some of these believers, and they are finding great freedom in them.

Sunday's morning services (one in English, the other in Kikamba) drew more than 150. You would have loved the time of worship in praise! So much enthusiasm, excitement and expression. And believe me, it's infectious! We continued the seminar in the afternoon, teaching about leadership in the Church, and the place of elders and deacons. MCC does not yet have recognized leadership, aside from the pastor and a few other volunteers, but they are preparing to put leaders in place, and they want to make sure they do it well. Their ultimate goal is to grow a model congregation that they can reproduce in other places in hopes of becoming a movement of churches.

I wish you could sit with these people and hear their hearts as they share. You'd be moved and challenged in your own faith. As thankful as they were that I took time to be with them, I think I got the better end of the deal. I'm stirred and encouraged to deepen my walk as I realize what my brothers and sisters face each day here. And I'm convicted to pray more fervently for them as they live for the Lord in southeast Kenya. You'd love the people here, I know you would. And after you were here awhile, you'd try to figure out how you could return as soon and as often as possible.

I know I am.

Kenya bound, Kenya found!

2009-04-17T01:03:00.000-07:00

At last! We touched down at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport in Nairobi yesterday afternoon (Thursday) at 2:40, and I was so thankful to be finished with flying for awhile! Arriving in Kenya is always a great experience for me, and this time was no exception. After clearing customs (always an adventure!) we were met by Paul Mutendwe from Tumaini Ministries (Paul was at our church last fall). He brought Jackson, the Tumaini chaplain, and Geoffrey, a US intern. How great to see them again!

After a much needed night's sleep, Stanley and | are in Nairobi this morning taking care of odds and ends (exchanging $$, making copies for our seminar and touching base with people). We'll head to Machakos (about 2 hours southeast) after lunch, and get ready for tomorrow's time with the new church. I'm growing more excited about this opportunity as Stanley and I talk over all the possibilities with the planting of this new congregation. People are hungry for something fresh, something challenging, something with substance and hope for their souls. Please keep us in your prayers as we prepare and share what God has given us.

The weather is pleasant, we're healthy, and God is good. Those are fine ingredients for us as we launch this time of connection with our brothers and sisters. I'll post again when we're settled in Machakos. Thanks for your concern and interest in what God's doing in this part of His world. It's a blast to be connected with it, even in a small way, isn't it?!

Our Emirates Connection

2009-04-15T21:50:00.000-07:00

I wanted to check in along the way and let you know our travel progress. We're sitting at the airport in Dubai (in the United Arab Emirates), having concluded our 12+ hour junket from NYC, and looking forward to 5 more wonderful hours in the air in order to reach Nairobi.

We're flying Emirates Airlines this trip, and I have to tell you, except for one kinda crabby flight attendant (she must have hit my shoulder 15 times either walking past or pushing the food carts), we had a tremendous experience. Service was great, everyone (sans the one) was out-of-their-way friendly, and the entertainment system for each seat was almost beyond imagination! You ADD-types would have been satisfied completely with the hundreds (that's right!) of movies offered, music, games, up-to-date news, even the ability to create our own music playlist. Additionally, each seat had the ability to connect mp3 devices, ipods, and computers with power! Needless to say, we enjoyed the longest leg of our flights and are looking forward to the final link.

We're anticipating an extremely positive response from the young church in Masii. Stanley was with them a couple of months ago, teaching about church dynamics, and they were enthusiastic, absorbing everything he shared with great excitement. They've spoken to him more than once about starting other congregations, but he's encouraging them to take a step at a time, making sure they're grounded and firm before they spread themselves out.

Thanks again for the prayers. Pray earnestly as you wrestle on our behalf, will you? And don't forget to bring your umbrellas!

On the Road Again

2009-04-15T06:37:00.000-07:00

As I write this, I'm sitting in JFK Airport in the Big Apple with Stanley Mutunga (that's Stanley and me feeding Jeffrey!). It's Tuesday morning, and we just arrived on the red-eye from Los Angeles on our way to Kenya (man, those seats are small!). We'll fly through Dubai this time (a first for me), a 12+ hour trip, then about 5 hours back to Nairobi. It's long, but exciting, as Stanley and I talk much about our opportunities for the next nine days. We'll teach at the new church started at the Tumaini Center. The congregation is averaging about 125 after last September's launch, and they want to know more about what it means to be a non-denominational, New Testament church. And even more exciting is the news that they already want to plant more churches like themselves throughout the area. Our teaching will be foundational to what they will teach and pass on to others as they reproduce themselves among their own people.

Quite honestly, that makes me a more nervous, knowing that what we/I say during these days of teaching and discussion will be carried on to others. My topics this trip include the place of baptism and the Lord's Supper in the Church, and the place and ministry of elders and deacons in the Church. Please pray for us as we share, that we don't simply impart knowledge, but that we pass along the lessons and insights God has given to us through our years of service to Him. Thanks!

on my way to kenya

2009-04-02T11:58:00.000-07:00

On April 14, I will be heading to Kenya with Stanley Mutunga of Tumaini Ministries for nine days. During our time there, we'll meet with a new church plant worshipping at the new Tumaini Center. It was established last fall as an effort to begin a church that is simply a New Testament non-denominational congregation, something different than the norm in Kenya.

Stanley and I will lead teaching and discussion times that will focus on the structure, growth and development of the local church. Of particular concern this time will be teaching involving the Lord's Supper and baptism as they relate to the church, and elders, deacons and overall leadership issues.

This new church is currently running about 125 each week and is already looking to reproduce itself in other places. So, we are anticipating the possibility that this might not simply be a new church planted, but a new church planting movement! Therefore, the foundation set now becomes that much more crucial for what lies ahead.

I'll keep you updated about what's going on with this project. Meanwhile, I've included a video that we made from our time with Tumaini the first year we took a team (2006).

Enjoy!

Beyond...

2009-03-17T11:55:00.000-07:00

As quickly as it seemed to come, so it has gone. Our time of missions emphasis, Beyond...9 days in March! is now history, but it has left an unmistakable impression in its wake. Our focus this year was that of prayer, real prayer especially on behalf of those with whom we partner throughout the world. And as we talked about prayer, learned about prayer, and had fresh opportunity for prayer, we were challenged to become more of a prayer-urgent people...something not easy for so many of us in our culture.

We had most of our 41 missionaries and missions organizations represented as they shared their stories with us, explained their unique ministries, and encouraged us to deepen our relationships and concern for them. Highlights included: a great breakfast on the 9th with valuable interaction with several missionaries, our Wednesday night Global Gathering (complete with the In-n-Out Burger truck!) and a special time of prayer for our global workers, a Friday Night at the Movies spectacular ("Inn of the Sixth Happiness," the story of China missionary Gladys Aylward) and our concluding weekend, complete with missionaries and their displays. It was especially good to have SP and Joy Daniel (from Hyderabad, India) with us again. They spoke at a number of venues, with Joy having a great chance to connect with our various women's Bible study groups.

We learned again of the needs of our brothers and sisters in so many places, and the privilege of partnership we share with them through prayer. Romans 15:30 is of particular importance to us now, as we read of Paul's challenge to the Roman church to join him in his struggle by praying for him. We may not ever make it to Austria, Kenya, Chile, Indonesia China, or any of the other places we support workers, but we can join these faithful ones in their work, their struggle, by praying for them. This way, we all have a part to play in getting the message of hope in Christ to a world in such desperate need.

The nine days were good, but our hope- really, our need- is to take what God has shown us and go beyond these nine days, allowing Him to shift and shape our lives and actions to reflect His global heart and purpose. Maybe John Piper said it best- "Go, send or disobey."

It's that simple, and we do well not to complicate it.

Beyond...9 Days in March!

2009-03-03T22:44:00.000-08:00

It's almost here! That's right, the time of missions emphasis at our church gets set to kick off this weekend. Dubbed, Beyond...9 Days in March! this is a time for us to learn more about what God is doing around the corner and around the world, and just what that means to us. Our theme this year is A House of Prayer for all Nations (Isaiah 56:7), reminding us of our need to seek God in prayer for the fulfillment of His Great Commission.

There will be special events, activities and opportunities for us to become more connected with our growing global perspective. And one of the highlights will be the chance to rub shoulders with many of the 41 missionaries and missions organizations we support as a church. They'll be with us throughout the week, sharing what God is doing in and through them, giving us the bigger picture, and answering our questions.

Here's a thumbnail sketch of some of what will be taking place:

Saturday/Sunday, March 7/8-
- Kick-off weekend with great worship, visuals and message from Pastor Shane;
Monday, March 9-
- "Have a Missionary for Breakfast!"- a free super breakfast prepared and served in our Fellowship Hall (8:00 a.m.- 9:00 a.m.), where our missionaries will join us, share with us and answer questions.
Tuesday, March 10-
- Our Young at Heart (10:00 a.m.), Women's (7:00 p.m.) and Men's (7:15 p.m.) Bible Studies will have missionary guest speakers.
Wednesday, March 11-
- We’ll host our annual All-Church Global Gathering under the pepper tree! At 5:30 pm, the In-N-Out truck will be here to serve a great burger dinner ($3 cost). Our 7:00 p.m. program will include a special performance by the International Children’s Choir of Long Beach, as well as introduction of, and prayer for our missionaries. Special focus will be given to our local workers.
Thursday, March 12-
- A special Women's Ministries meeting/brunch honoring our female missionaries. Begins at 9:00 a.m. and ends by noon. Joy Daniel of Hyderabad, India will be our guest speaker.
Friday, March 13-
- 7:00 p.m. Friday Night at the Movies, a time to share a great movie and snacks with family and friends. And it's all on us! (with childcare!)
Saturday /Sunday, March 14/15-
- Services with our missionaries or representatives present, along with their displays and information. So much to see and do!

In addition to these events:
- The lobby of the auditorium will be open each night from 9:00-11:00 for prayer. We’re encouraging our people to come at least once during the nine days, even for 15 minutes, to offer prayers for missionaries, as well as for the global situation.

Join us if you're in the area (315 S. Knott Ave., Anaheim, CA), and pray for us if you're not. This is a critical time for us as we seek to grow in our understanding of the partnership we have with God's global plan. Pray that God would open our hearts, challenge our lifestyles and bless our efforts. And that we would take what He shows us and go beyond these nine days...to a lifetime of service for those who have yet to know Him as Lord and Savior.

saddle up, cowboy

2009-02-18T21:52:00.000-08:00

I got news this morning that I didn't want to hear. A call from the local coroner telling me that Cowboy passed away yesterday. David Hervert, aka Cowboy, was a special man to us. He was a homeless man who had first come to the church for assistance maybe eight years ago. I met him at that time with his wife. They were living in a small trailer a few miles away and needed a little help. Shortly after that time, she passed away and he ended up on the street.

Dave split time between the streets and area motels, doing odd jobs for cash. He gave his life to Christ and became a part of the family at Knott Avenue. His edges were rough and he had issues (don't we all), but he had found his home. A couple of years ago he became ill and fell into a coma, having to have both legs amputated. Dave was comatose more than three months and I was asked by the hospital's board of ethics to sit on a panel evaluating his situation. I shared with a group of doctors about Dave's contribution to the community and to our church. It was ultimately decided to remove life support and prepare him for the death that was already near. Two days later, I received a call from the hospital. Dave had awakened and asked two things: "Where am I?" and "Where's Mike?!" The nurse said, "I think we need to take him out of hospice and place him in convalescence!"

The time that followed was not easy for him. His recovery was slow and incomplete, and his inability to get healthy meant he returned to a convalescent home, where he ultimately died. But he was a fighter. He struggled, he tried with all he had and knew. We'll always remember him as the one who wrote out nametags at each the Community Supper. The one who shared a large, toothless (mostly) grin so easily. The one who was writing his own Bible, patiently transcribing the Scriptures day after day onto a pad. He had finished a lot of it, by the way.

I miss Cowboy already. And I'll sure miss him when we gather for our Community Supper Friday night, the 27th. We'll put together a memorial service for him that night, because even though our society as a whole won't miss him, we will. Those on the street, and his church family as well. Dave made an imprint on a bunch of us, and we're the better for it. The good news is that his new body has legs- and teeth too, I suppose. And he's resting in the presence of the God that he'd come to know. No more pain. No more sorrow. No more tears. Only rejoicing, praise and gratitude for who God is and what He's done.

Hold the gate open, Cowboy. We'll be there soon enough and will dance together. That'll be a good time- I can hardly wait. And I know you'll be good at it.

Even with those boots I'm sure you'll be wearing.

GO! Teams '09 Revving Up

2009-02-13T10:07:00.000-08:00

So many places, so little time and opportunity.

That's what it feels like at times as we make our plans for destinations of our Global Outreach (GO!) Teams at KACC. There are lots of places we could travel, lots of people to meet and things to do. There are so many chances to make an impact for God's Kingdom...and yet we are bound by time and means. So how do we determine just where we will invest our time, resources and energy?

More than anything, it comes down to relationships. While we could make trips to so many locations, we look at the connections we have with those we desire to serve. First, we try to direct our efforts to those people and projects that we actively support as a church. It makes sense to channel our time into places where we already channel our resources. This helps to deepen that relationship, and gives us a greater understanding and appreciation for those to whom we are committed. Secondly, we look for places where we can return in order to invest our lives deeply. We don't want to do "hit-and-run" missions, because we believe the greater blessing comes with greater investment...for us and for those we serve. And since we only spend from a few days to a few weeks in any location, it takes many times on site to develop the trust and camaraderie that allows us to speak deeply into lives.

With this kind of criteria in mind, we have our trips ready for 2009:

San Carlos Apache Reservation, Arizona- April 23-26; November 5-8
Atascadero, CA- May 14-17; October 1-4
Tecate, Mexico- May 15-17; December 11-13
Brisbane, Australia- June 28- July 13
Baguio City, Philippines- July 8-22

You may notice that we are adding shorter, closer, more affordable trips, while dropping some of our longer ones (for this year). Our hope is that more people will be willing to "wade into the shallow end" of missions, tasting and seeing just how rich the experience is by taking a smaller step. Our ultimate goals? Among others, to understand more fully what God is doing outside our own neighborhoods, to connect with others in life-changing ways (for us and them), and to discover what God might be saying to us about our role in getting His message of life and hope to ALL peoples. Interested in knowing more? Contact us at church and find out what part God may want you to play in His bigger picture in 2009.

We're ready to GO! Are you?

Tecate Bound!

2008-12-11T11:41:00.000-08:00

Our final Global Outreach (GO!) Team of 2008 leaves Friday (12th) for a weekend journey to Tecate. The city of Tecate is just over the US-Mexico border, east of San Diego and Tijuana. It is here we are partnering with a team from the National City First Christian Church in their dream of building and establishing an orphanage in this area. We have been part of this project for a couple of years now, and have seen the foundation and walls erected. The next phase is the construction of the roof, followed by detail work and furnishing the rooms. Cost for the roof is $25,000, of which $14,000 has been raised. We are working on the final $11,000 so the orphanage can open.

But until then, we are still connecting with the community there through a local congregation just outside the city. The team will host their 2nd annual Christmas Party this weekend, strengthening relationships with people there, and bringing smiles and joy to everyone! Please pray for the group (some of whom are shown in this recent photo) as they travel and serve. Pray also for the continued work to be accomplished on the facility, that it might be completed soon. For when it is opened, there will be children, orphaned for so many reasons, who will find hope and purpose that they may have never known.

Arizona Reflections

2008-11-15T23:03:00.000-08:00

We've been back from the San Carlos Reservation a week now, and it probably takes that long (and longer) to assess lessons learned, positive take-aways, and future possibilities for us. I've been chewing on these thoughts throughout the week, and although there is much that remains difficult to wrap our hands around, there are some tangible products from our time with the Arizona Reservation Ministry, and the Apache people. Here are a few:

1. We took a team of 21, second largest in the eight years I've been at KACC. About half of the team was new to short-term missions and/or the San Carlos venue. We were able to introduce a new group of people to what God is doing (and wants us to do) in our own backyard. We made new and deeper connections with each other, and challenged our team to be the ambassadors for ARM as well as KACC GO! Teams upon our return;

2. We were able to further the work on two homes on the reservation, and our efforts mean that the homes will be ready for their occupants that much sooner. Sacrificial service will provide blessings for a few more people, and hopefully open them even more to Christ's message of hope;

3. We got to spend time with kids, loving on them and showing them that God loves them through our interaction with them. There are many walls of distrust built through years of conflict. We pray our time with these young ones will help break down some of those barriers and replace them with foundations of trust;

4. We connected with the ARM team and (hopefully!) were an encouragement to them. After all, groups like ours come and go, but these brothers and sisters live in the trenches, on the front lines of ministry in a desperate and difficult place. They can become discouraged and disenchanted, impacted deeply by the spiritual warfare in which they're engaged. One of our goals is to refresh them as they give themselves for the Kingdom. They've become our friends, and we theirs;

5. Our eyes and hearts have been opened, some for the first time, some a little more, to the needs and circumstances that exist- so close to our lives, and yet a world removed. We've been challenged, convicted, and shocked by what we've experienced, and now we're called to do something about it. It may look different for each of us, but one thing is certain- we cannot afford to be the same people that we were a couple of weeks ago. We know too much.

Thanks goes to each of you who, in some way, gave your support to those who did the legwork of this trip. We are a team together, some sending, some praying, some encouraging, some going. Your part, however big or small, was vital (perhaps more than you can ever know) and we are grateful. And so are a handful of people in eastern Arizona.

Our next trip to San Carlos will be April 23-26, 2009. Consider and pray about the possibility of joining us. And if you can't go in person, ask God how He might use you in a another way on this team. But in some way, plan to become part of a group seeking to make a world of difference among a people so close to- and yet so far from- us.

Open the Eyes of My Heart, Lord

2008-11-08T22:19:00.000-08:00

Today was a full work day for us, but some ways you might not imagine. We left Globe and traveled the 20+ minutes to the reservation to continue to work on one of the homes that we had worked on yesterday. We needed to paint (especially trim and molding), hang doors and install fixtures, as the house is nearing completion.

When we arrived on site, half went to work there and the other half piled back into the van for a prayer journey. Diana Lawrence (one of ARM'S founders) guided us through different communities of the reservation, telling stories, answering questions, and helping us understand better the overwhelming situation we see here. In each location she talked to us about people and circumstances. Several times she began to cry as she shared. The stories ripped our hearts out. Unbelievable. Incredible. Incomprehensible. Unfathomable. We cried as well. Fortunately, there were encouraging stories as well, which helped bring a sense of equilibrium to our time.

We switched places with the work group- they drove and prayed, we stayed and labored. Both groups worked. Following lunch and a good afternoon of painting and building as one group, we made our way back to where we were staying. Great dinner, then a good time of sharing, debriefing and seeking to put together some of what we are learning. Not an easy task but we had a great time trying.

Tomorrow (Sunday) we will worship here in Globe, eat lunch out with the ARM staff, then make our way back to Phoenix for our 6:30 p.m. flight to the OC. Please remember us in your prayers, especially that we will make the most of every opportunity we have until we are back home safely. Thanks!

Reservation Made

2008-11-08T06:52:00.000-08:00

Our Arizona GO! Team is on site, settled in, working hard and connecting well here on the San Carlos Apache reservation. Everyone has found more than enough to do, and more than they probably thought they would see in the short time we've been here. We are painting one home for Ricky, who is currently living in a small tent. Although the structure that ARM has created is quite small by our standards (300+ sq. ft.) with just a living area/kitchen, bedroom and bathroom, to Eric it is beautiful. And it really is!

At another site, we're hanging cabinets, painting, installing doors and molding, and putting final (hopefully!) touches on a home that was badly burned. The grandmother who will live there again is excited to see what had been destroyed now rise from the ashes (literally) as something new and grand. Through this type of service, ARM is creating significant relationships with more and more in San Carlos and is being understood as a group of people who love the Apache people and who help provide hope.

Of course, the treat for our team is time with the children. The bus ministry rolled out Thursday afternoon for Bible stories and games with kids in one area, and we got some good "hang time" with many there. Yesterday, some of us went to a youth foster home and simply loved on the little ones there, some of whom get little of that kind of attention. It's hard to know who receives the bigger blessing, us or them!

Please continue to pray for us- for safety, health, unity an opportunity- as we serve the needs of the Apache and the needs of Arizona Reservation Ministries. We only have a short time remaining and we want to use it to the fullest for the sake of God's Kingdom. And thank you all for your prayers, partnership, encouragement and support- you are a part of what is going on this weekend, even from where you are! (picures coming tonight- we hope!)

AZ GO! Team On Its Way

2008-11-05T15:07:00.000-08:00

Our team will gather tomorrow morning at 4:30 (or is that the middle of the night?!) at the church and make its way to John Wayne Airport as we wing our way to eastern Arizona for four days of service and connection with the San Carlos Apache Reservation and Arizona Reservation Ministry. ARM is one of the missions we support as a church, so our time serving them is important as is gives us the opportunity to more closely partner with them as they work with the Apache people.

Please pray for us as we fly, drive and pour ourselves out for the sake of others. We will be busy with construction projects, relationship building, kids' ministry, and assisting ARM in whatever ways they can use us. Pray for us as we deal with the spiritual warfare in the area. The reservation is a place of great physical, emotional, and spiritual need, and there is a critical call for hope in ways that we would probably never imagine. Our time there will be short, but we believe God can create change in the lives of people with whom we come into contact, as well as within us, while we are on site.

Thank you for your partnership with us as we go. You may not be able to go (this time!), but you can pray, encourage, finance and support those who put legs on Jesus' Great Commission (Matthew 28:18-20). In this way, we all have a part to play, a place in this work, and a connection with each other. Please lift us before the throne of grace this weekend, and we will do our best to represent the Lord and you to the best of our ability.

Hope in East Africa

2008-10-29T05:00:00.000-07:00

This is a post from my other blog site (http://www.edensdust.blogspot.com), and I apologize if you read both. However, I felt this was newsworthy enough to be posted in both places:

I'd like to introduce you to a very special person today. His name is Paul Mutendwa, pictured here recently with Stanley Mutunga, founder of Tumaini International Ministries (Paul is on the left). Tumaini (Swahili for hope), as many of you know, is an organization based in Kenya that provides for the sponsorship of AIDS orphans. Our church partners with them, and we currently sponsor more than 300 kids. Stanley and his wife Rose began this work not so many years ago, hoping to be responsible for 200 children. But, as is often said, we plan and God laughs. Now with more than 800 children being helped more than a THOUSAND on a waiting list (and yes, you read that right), Tumaini is impacting Kenya in a significant fashion.

Back to Paul. Stanley realized that as the work began to burgeon, someone was needed to supervise and oversee the in-country operations. He contacted Paul, who was successful in the business world, and challenged him to use his abilities and skills for the Kingdom in a specific manner. Paul responded to that challenge, left his secular position, and accepted the post of Country Director for Tumaini. For nearly three years, he has worked with and fashioned this outreach so it might expand according the the ever-growing needs around it.

Paul and his family are making a significant impact for the work of the Lord in east Africa. He is currently in the US this month, visiting supporting churches and working with the US board as they continue to consider Tumaini's role. He will be at Knott Avenue this Sunday (November 2), so if you are able, come meet him and discover another reason we believe so much in this vital work.

Arizona GO! Team Preparing

2008-10-28T08:29:00.000-07:00

November 6-9 are the dates for our next Global Outreach (GO!) Team to be in service, this time in eastern Arizona. The 21 of us (a big group!) will partner with Arizona Reservation Ministries (http://www.azrez.org), a group serving the needs of the San Carlos Apache Reservation, just outside the city of Globe (2 hours east of Phoenix). Our four days there will be spent working with kids on the reservation, assisting with construction projects, and doing whatever else will benefit either ARM or the Apache people.

I cannot overstate the great needs that exist in this place. Not only are there physical and material needs (as much as 85% unemployment, over 50% of homes with no running water or electricity), but there are tremendous emotional, psychological and spiritual issues as well. Perhaps no other place I've visited needs hope more than here. So please pray for us as we attempt to demonstrate the hope of Jesus in all we do and say during this time.

Taking a Walk

2008-10-10T09:43:00.000-07:00

I'm currently reading through the OT book of Proverbs as part of my daily devotional time with the Lord. I'm reading a chapter daily, concurrent with the day of the month (today I read chapter 10, since it's Oct 10). Makes it easier for me to remember where I left off, and that's a nice help as I get older! I try to find at least one verse that jumps out and speaks to me for the day, and use it as a guide, since it is God's wisdom given to me.

Today there were a few verses and principles that spoke loudly to my heart and life circumstances, but I wanted to simply share one of them with you- Proverbs 10:9:

The man of integrity walks securely,
But he who takes crooked paths will be found out.

Integrity is a crucial issue for us, whether in the Church or in the world. Just look at the integrity issues being thrown back and forth in the presidential race. Someone said that integrity is what you do when no one is looking at you. It's how you conduct yourself at every twist and turn, whether or not anyone else knows it. The very word speaks to a wholeness in our being (remember the term integer in math class?), in which what we claim to be matches how we live out that claim.

Solomon reminds us that those who walk in integrity don't have to worry about being found out. They are secure because they walk their talk. They won't face the kind of destructive issues that plague so many others because their conduct keeps them away from involvement in things that come back to bite them. Conversely, the person who takes crooked paths (a picture of walking in sin and deception) will eventually be caught. Sooner or later his (or her) sin will catch up and responsibility will have to be taken. It usually happens in this life, since it's hard to keep our secret sins and paths secret very long. But even if we make it through our lives here with no one finding us out, we will stand before the One who sees it all- and there will be no way out of that one.

The challenge for me, then, is to walk in integrity, so there is nothing to be "found out" that would damage me or those around me. Keep my paths straight, keep my eyes straight ahead, keep my feet walking where they should and keep my destination firmly in focus. Not always easy in a world of crooked paths- but doable, with the help of God and my brothers and sisters.

Walk well this week!

Atascadero Update 2

2008-10-06T10:10:00.000-07:00

I wanted you to see a photo (click to enlarge) of the Atascadero Team the morning they left (it was 4:45 a.m. and they were all awake!). The team is complete, sans Hans and Lara Linneman, who met them in Atascadero:

This team did a tremendous job working, sharing, serving and giving of themselves to residents and staff alike. They arrived home safely and wish to thank all of you who supported them through prayer, finances, encouragement or in any other manner. They were another great example of what God can do through His people when they focus on giving themselves away and giving Him the glory.

Atascadero Update

2008-10-04T11:05:00.000-07:00

The Atascadero GO! Team is hard at work there on the the California central coast, blessing the lives of the residents of the Christian Home there. Scott Graham, one of the team, sent the following update and pictures (click on photos to enlarge):

The Atascadero mission team dove into assignments Thursday afternoon upon our safe arrival. Members are working on projects at the Home and also at Country Care hospital. Some are on the roof painting fascia, others are digging areas for four (4) cement pads to be poured soon. We have women on the team who have trimmed "thousands" of rose stems. Others have planted flowers to beautify the entrance. More importantly, the team has met, talked, and prayed with residents and staff at both locations. They have shared in devotions, visited with residents at each meal, and joined in singing at a Hymn sing-along. We have dealt with sore backs and muscles (especially the cement preparers!). Some have sacrificed by sleeping on a mattress on the floor - more stars in their crowns. We all praise God for His love and care.

Please continue to pray for this great team as they work, share and travel home Sunday afternoon. Ask the Lord to not only keep them healthy and safe, but to provide those kinds of "God-moments" with others who might need to know more about what it means to have a growing relationship with Him.

Atascadero GO! Team Heading North

2008-10-02T13:09:00.000-07:00

It was 4:30 this morning as I stood with our Atascadero GO! (Global Outreach) Team and prayed with them in the church's parking lot. They then quickly loaded themselves into the various vehicles and began their jaunt northward toward the city of Atascadero, and the opportunities waiting there for them at the Atascadero Christian Home and Country Care Facility.

The team will spend their time combining projects around the grounds with time spent with residents there. I was reminded of the importance of this kind of time when I was there once. I was talking with an elderly lady who was staring off into the distance as we sat on a porch. She told me that we were the only ones who had come to see her. That her son had not been visited even once since he had placed her in the home over a year earlier. I asked where he lived, certain it was a far distance. I was surprised and heartbroken for her when she sadly replied, "Atascadero."

Many fail to appreciate the great need our elderly have for connection and relationship, and how they have been too often failed by those in their lives. The great thing about this kind of outreach is that we don't have to look far to find ways to reach out and make a difference for those of the "Builder Generation."

Please keep the team in your prayers as they travel, work hard, and share their lives. Pray for their unity as a team, and for open doors as they share the hope of the Gospel with those yet to know it, both residents and staff.

What Do You Do With All That Money?

2008-09-30T08:07:00.000-07:00

I was asked twice again yesterday. It's a pretty common question, actually. Just how do we allocate our missions spending at KACC? How do we know where and whom to support? Do we have a structure, a plan, a strategy for our financial investments throughout the world?

There's a lot to be said about this topic, more than I will cover in this post alone. But I do think it's important to share the overarching support strategy of our Global Missions Team.

It begins with a statistic I heard back in 1990. It was that as much as 95% of all money designated for missions in U.S. churches never leaves the U.S. 95%! How can that be?! But when I considered the kinds of projects that end up in the missions category (camps, Bible colleges, scholarships, local church planting, etc.) I realized that this number just might be pretty accurate. I thought then that if I were to ever be responsible for a church's missions budget, I would make sure that such a number could never apply to us.

When I arrived at KACC eight years ago, I found a healthy missions budget (10% of the giving) that was spread throughout the world, but without a lot of specific intent or strategy. During my time here, we have refined our thinking about how we are going to make a world of diffrence. First, we determined that at least 2/3 of our budget would go to regular support of missionaries and projects (the remaining 1/3 to be used for our ministry's local expenses- benevolence, operations, urban, etc.). We then chose to use Jesus' words in Acts 1:8b as our model for financial distribution:

"...and you will be my witnesses, in Jeruslam, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth."

We chose to align our support along these four quadrants, with present-day designations for the areas Jesus mentioned, and a percentage of our giving assigned to each area:
> Jerusalem= California (local)- 15%
> Judea= the United States (national)- 15%
> Samaria= the western world- 25%
> ends of the earth= the rest of the world- 45%

Our current missionaries/projects were then placed in their corresponding geographical "pockets" and (unbelievably) everyone/thing fit perfectly! Now we have a global paradigm that helps us maintain a balance in our giving, and allows us to actively seek out new opportunities when we have the opening to do so. It's not a perfect system, by any means, but it does give us discernible shape and tangible guidelines as we seek God's direction for our church's involvement, whether around the corner or around the world.

Jesus told us in Matthew 6:21 that where we place our treasure is where we'll find our hearts. At KACC we want to have a heart for the world, just as God does. So we're trying to making sure our treasure is invested, not only outside our front door, but throughout the earth.

After all, don't you suppose it's all just outside God's front door?

On the Road to Atascadero

2008-09-22T18:04:00.001-07:00

One of the closer GO! Team trips that we make is to the Atascadero Christian Home, located a few hours north of us on the central California coast. This missions opportunity is unique from all others that we make because the people group is that of senior citizens- those who have chosen (or need) to reside in an assisted living situation. The facility contains both assisted living units and a hospital facility.

Our team will spend four days (Oct. 2-6) serving the needs of ACH. There are projects (gardening, painting, building, repair, etc.) to be done throughout the grounds, and opportunities to spend time with the residents. That's important, since several of them have few or no visitors. The connections we make give us the chance to share with many the love and need of Jesus (residents and workers there don't necessarily know Him) in their lives. And that's so important, since many of these folks are close to meeting Jesus anyway.

Please keep this team in prayer as they gather themselves and prepare to go. We will post their picture soon. Pray that they will be bold in their witness and find those chances to both demonstrate and speak the truth of the Gospel. This is a "cross-cultural" experience of a different kind, but as much a challenge and a joy as anywhere else in this world.

For more info about the Atascadero Christian Home, go to www.pacificchristianhomes.org.

What's Cookin'?

2008-09-18T21:03:00.000-07:00

There are lots of ways to enjoy cross-cultural experiences while remaining close to home. One of the easiest and more interesting is to find restaurants of different cultures and enjoy their cuisine and atmosphere. I want to tell you of two great places to eat in our immediate area- places that not only give you a taste of another land (sorry for such a lousy pun), but can also put you in touch with people whose backgrounds and experiences can be a delight to learn about.

Restaurant #1 is called Andaluz, 930 S. Brookhurst Avenue (just north of Ball Rd.) in Anaheim. It's Mediterranean/Lebanese in style, with a Muslim flair, and is outstanding. Under new management, the owner has made great improvements, both in the property and in the quality of food served. It's clean, food is served quickly and staff is very friendly. I've only had lunch there, but I can heartily recommend the shawarma (beef and chicken), kefala, kabob, and chicken tawouk sandwiches. Make sure you order hummus as well. Lunch prices are medium (two can eat for under $20) and the ambiance is authentic.

Restaurant #2 is called Merhaba, 2801 W. Ball Road, (corner of Dale and Ball), also in Anaheim. This establishment serves Ethiopian/Eritrean food, and it may be unlike anything you've ever experienced. If you order a combination plate of meat and vegetables (it says it serves 2, but can handle at least 3) you'll receive a generous helping of unfamiliar-looking delights. There is no silverware (unless you request it), as you "scoop" up your food with pieces of a bread-like offering (sorry, forgot the name). Works just fine. You will need a bit more time to eat here, and a bit more money, as it is a little pricey (about $30 for two for lunch, if you have a combo plate). The atmosphere is genuinely east African, the workers (and patrons) are friendly and happy to share their culture, and the experience rewarding.

The purpose of this post is not to critique local eateries, but to encourage you to step out of your zone of familiarity and try something new. And the reason to do so is not simply to consume strange offerings, but to expand your cultural borders and seek to understand new places, customs and people. The best part of these places? The people you meet there and the opportunity to establish relationships that could lead to a chance to talk about spiritual food. But it'll never happen unless you go ahead and give it shot. There's little to lose and a lot to gain (another pun, sorry)...and you may find your cross-cultural opportunity just up around the corner!

Happy eating!

Can You Give Hope?

2008-09-15T16:31:00.000-07:00

Our church has a special relationship with Tumaini (the Kiswahili word for hope) International Ministries in Kenya. Tumaini was started by Dr. Stanley and Rose Mutunga for the purpose of assisting AIDS orphans in that country (there are about 2 million there currently). Their goal was to make sure kids who had lost one or both parents, and who were living with extended family or neighbors, would be able to continue with life and education, and have the opportunity to succeed in spite of their circumstances. Their plan was to use sponsorship ($30.00 monthly) to help kids with basic needs and expenses while allowing them to remain within family and community (as opposed to being placed in orphanages, which often have negative impact in community-based cultures such as Kenya).

I know that there are many solid organizations (e.g. World Vision, Compassion International) which do similar works, and that's good, because it's going to take all of us doing all we can to make the difference in place like Kenya. But let me share a couple of reasons why I believe Tumaini makes such great sense:

1. The entire amount you send for sponsorship goes to your child! Nothing is taken out for administrative costs, as Tumaini raises that money separately;

2. It's a grass-roots movement with no layers of bureaucracy. This helps foster a very personal relationship between you and your child, and means that you can find out how and what the child you are sponsoring is doing;

3. It is a "easy" matter for you to make personal connection with your child! We have taken teams to Kenya for three years now, and have been able to sit with the children we sponsor, getting to know them, their families and their situation. I know what my child (his name is Mutinda) is going through, and we have talked and prayed together. I know his grandmother and his brother, and I know that the assistance we provide is getting where it is supposed to go.

All this to say that you could sponsor someone in Kenya and make a lifetime of difference for him or her. And if you can't afford it alone, buddy up with others and do it together. I bring this to your attention because I believe in the need, I believe in Tumaini's plan as a solution (at least in part) to the need, and I believe in our ability to meet the need.

To find out more, go to http://www.tumainiinternational.org/. Or contact me and I'll tell you more about this blessing. And if you have a moment, check out our video of the 2006 KACC Kenya Team:

Where To Next?

2008-09-08T08:39:00.000-07:00

We are officially back into our own "home" culture, finally reconnected with what is most familiar to us. During our summer, some of us were introduced (or reacquainted) with a different way of life. Whether it was life in Kenya, Samoa or Australia, we found a different way of doing things, but even more striking, a different way of looking at things. My hope, as one who helps design these kinds of experiences for others, is that even though we return to what is familiar, we will never return to doing things or looking at things like we used to. Our goal is not only that we help change the world in some small way, but that we will be changed as we open our eyes and hearts to what God is doing around us.

As we steam into the fall, we still have trips on our schedule. We will take a team to Atascadero (central California coast) in October, and a team to the San Carlos Apache Reservation (eastern Arizona) in November. The Atascadero team will work with a convalescent and retirement center, and the Arizona team will partner with Arizona Reservation Ministries. There are still a few spots open on each team, but they will fill quickly, so contact us if you're interested.

More importantly than where we are going is where you are going as you finish out 2008. Always remember that you don't have to get on an airplane, cross an ocean or acquire a passport in order to reach out. Your next "trip" may begin right outside your front door. We have talked about "sending servants" from KACC for several years now. Unfortunately, some still think that this means engaging in some herculean effort to travel halfway around the world in order to do what, in reality, you are called to do every day wherever you are. Your mission field is wherever God has you in the moment. So don't wait for some special call- you've been called AND placed! Make the most of it. And may you never be the same.

Zoom, Zoom, Zoom

2008-08-12T00:19:00.000-07:00

By the time most of you read this we will be well on our way back to the US. I am currently writing from the airport in Amsterdam where we will soon be boarding our flight and winging our way home again. We have spent much time talking about and evaluating our experiences of the last two weeks, and there remains much to be considered. We learned so much about the way God useserelationships to build His Kingdom, and just how far we still haveto grow (especially as westerners) in that area. We also saw such courage and determination in the lives of those who have been impacted by severe life circumstances that we were challenged to rise to our own life occasions victoriously.

As we prepare to board, I willl leave you with some random photos that express the joy, adventure, challenge and fun that we have had (double click to enlarge):

Kenya: Unpacking Our Experiences

2008-08-11T00:01:00.000-07:00

How do we begin to process all that we have seen and experienced in the last two week? That's what we wrestled with tonight in a debrief session. The more we shared, the more there was to share. As we took turns talking, our experiences, lessons learned, highlights and struggles peeled back like layers of an onion. As each was removed there was another to take its place.

Such is the way of successful short-term efforts. We will continue to unfold our thoughts and ideas for weeks and months to come- sometimes privately, sometimes together, and sometimes with those (like some of you!) that we know and love. Be patient with us, bear with us, listen to us and learn with us.

Immediate highlights of our time included:
- visiting the Anne Frank House in Amsterdam and sensing again the ability within people to do great good or great evil, depending upon choices made;
- spending time in the slums of Nairobi and seeing how God is working through courageous men and women making a world of difference there;
- viewing God's creation up close at Nakuru- and almost too close with an unamused rhino and a bad vehicle battery connection;
- seeing the faces of those helped by the dental clinic;
- laughing with each other;
- watching Stanley imitate Pam's laugh, and then everyone imitate Stanley's laugh;
- dip baths from a bucket each morning in Masii;
- loud street parties until late in the evenings;
- lots and lots (and lots!) of children;
- Paul (Tumaini's country director) always on his phone;
- church service in Yoani, with its great singing;
- God coming through in so many ways we could not have thought of.

You'll hear more about our processing thoughts in the days and weeks ahead...stay tuned!

Back to Nairobi

2008-08-10T13:44:00.000-07:00

The week is complete and we have arrived back in Nairobi, preparing to leave tomorrow night for the US. It's hard to believe that our time in Masii is over just as quickly as it seemed to begin. We saw much, met many, and did whatever we could to bless people there.

One big draw was the dental clinic we held at the Tumaini property on the edge of the town. With the assembly hall finished we had a perfect place to gather and register people as they waited to see Dr. Ron (on left). We saw more than 200 people in four days' time, and extracted at least 600 teeth! It was unbelievable! And Ron wasn't the only one having fun. We all took turns helping at the clinic, and several of us learned to give shots, pull teeth and even suture wounds!

When not in rotation at the clinic we traveled throughout the area making home visits on several of our Tumaini kids. We visited about 25 families, delivering bags of food and blankets, finding out the conditions in each place, and encouraging the guardians as well as the children. Two great highlights: both Pam and Amanda each found a child they wanted to sponsor, and they signed up to do so! You should have seen the faces of the children they chose! Now they have a new and stronger sense of hope as they have seen God work on their behalf.

Our team has done such a great job together. They have probably laughed more than any team and they have bonded in a special way. God has drawn us together in a special kind of unity that has given us the ability to do more than we thought possible. Close friends became closer and new friendships developed in quick and deep fashion. We are one, and I am proud of them and all they have weathered together.

Thanks again for your prayers. They have been answered beyond your understanding, and Jesus has been lifted up in the lives of those around us in a real way. Our desire was to simply be a blessing to the people of Kenya, and in so doing God has blessed us beyond measure. Isn't that just like Him?!

Tumaini- Kiswahili for Hope

2008-08-05T05:12:00.000-07:00

We are currently in the town of Masii, a couple of hours south and east of Nairobi. We have no Internet here, so this post required the 30-minute trip to the neighboring town of Machakos in order to send it. The team is doing well- you’d be proud of them. We kicked off a week-long dental clinic yesterday, with Dr. Ron Jurgensen seeing more than 40 patients. We are only equipped to pull teeth, but there were plenty to be pulled! Ron (with the rest of us rotating in and out as assistants) worked eight hours, and will do so again today. It’s a long day, but worth it when we see the look of relief that comes with the remedy for a diseased, painful tooth.

While some are pulling teeth, others are making home visits to some of the AIDS orphans supported (through Tumaini International Ministries) by Knott Avenue Church members. What a joy to enter a home where the help that many of you give provides hope for those living there. For only $30 monthly, we help meet the physical and educational needs of a child who has lost one or both parents to AIDS. I was able to visit Mutinda Mboya, the boy our family sponsors. He and his brother lost their mom to AIDS while very young (he is now 17 yrs. old) and their dad simply walked away from the family, leaving them with their grandmother. To compound the pain in their lives, he remarried and lives not 30 minutes from them, yet they have never met him. But they both told me, “It’s OK, even if we never meet our father, because we have a Heavenly Father and He will never leave us.”

Their faith and courage are typical of so many of these Tumaini youth who are determined to become all God desires them to be, and have a chance to do so because people like you care enough to make a difference in their lives. For those of you who give, thank you for all you do. You can find out more about this outstanding work at

www.tumainiinternational.org.

If We Could Talk to the Animals

2008-08-02T07:54:00.000-07:00

Today we went on safari a couple hours north to the Nakura National Animal Reserve. This sprawling attraction, built along Lake Nakuru, is home to a panoply of wildlife. We spent the better part of the day driving through the park, locating and photographing these amazing creatures of God's great imagination. Highlight of the day came when our van's battery went dead (it turned out to be a loose connection) not 15 feet away from a now-bothered rhino, with Mom and Junior just 15 feet past him. As he faced us with a hard, cold stare, another van pulled up to shield us, and our driver got out and quickly repaired the connection. Nervous laughter throughout the van! Here are a few shots of what we saw (click to enlarge):

Hope you enjoy viewing these half as much as we did! We leave tomorrow for Masii, and aren't sure of Internet capabilities there. We'll blog if possible- if not, we'll be back in Nairobi Sunday night, August 10. Please pray for this team and its ministry opportunities (dental clinic, visiting orphans, evaluating ministry opportunities, encouraging the saints, etc.). Your partnership in this is a difference-maker for us, and we are ever grateful.

Transformers- More Than Meets the Eye

2008-08-01T12:20:00.002-07:00

Today's ventures took us to the other great slum of Nairobi, Mathari. In its grips live some 800,000 people (and remember, it is the "little sister" of Kibera, the slum of 1 million on the other side of the city!), most struggling simply to survive.

Here we visited another WEEP Center (see yesterday's blog) and were again impressed with the lives that are being changed through this ministry. But we also spent time at another work, called Community Transformers. This is a group of young people (team on left, mostly in their 20's) from the immediate community who believe that God called them to make a difference in the lives of their neighbors by staying in Mathare and ministering there. They have taken it upon themselves to care for substance abuse victims, those who are HIV+, homeless children, the hungry and dying, and anyone else God brings them. With no model before them, they have fashioned a team that reaches deep into the belly of this impoverished area. Here they develop relationships that allow them to share the transforming power of God's love.

Their leader, Nick (seen with our team on the right of this picture), explained their work, as leaders of the various outreaches shared specifics of each ministry. He took us to a nearby building where he introduced us to their latest project- 30 young children (21 boys, 9 girls), living in two bedrooms, who are homeless because of the political violence in January. Some are orphaned, others have a parent who needs their help. CT had not planned on this work, but knew that something had to be done so these children would not die. They work hard to raise funds to feed this new crew, care for their medical needs and get them through school. It's not easy, but the team is committed to these young ones. It's another way they are helping transform lives in the name of Jesus.

Our hearts were understandably moved throughout this time, and we were personally challenged to trust God like these young men and women are doing daily. They don't know where their provisions will come from, but they do know the One who will provide, so they simply press on in His service. They embody the words that Jesus spoke to the Gerasene demoniac following his healing, when he was told, "Go home to your family and tell them how much the Lord has done for you, and how He has had mercy on you." Just like that man, they are telling everyone they meet of God's mercy, and lives in this community are being transformed by their example. Who are we telling?

When God Shakes Your World

2008-07-31T13:10:00.000-07:00

I know our families and friends in southern California received a jolt the other day when a 5.4 magnitude earthquake struck. I understand the feeling all too well when the ground begins to tremble, all that has appeared solid and permanent starts shifting, and that which seemed certain suddenly becomes unsure. In a different but equally powerful way, our world was shaken again by God today as we visited two special ministry sites in Nairobi.

Both sites, one in Ngong and the other in the sprawling slum of Kibera (on left, population about 1 MILLION!), focus on providing mothers who are HIV+ with assistance and resources to regain lives of productivity and dignity within their communities. The program, called WEEP (Women Empowerment Employment Program), finds women who need medical, emotional and spiritual help in dealing with the fallout of the AIDS virus. Nearly all are single mothers, their husbands either deceased or gone, who would have died without the intervention of this ministry. Their stories were nothing less than amazing, as they spoke to us of their sickness, desperation, isolation and redemption.

These women (six present in Ngong and eleven at Kibera), all on the brink of death at one point, now reflect life and hope that defies the imagination. Their spiritual fervor is evident, as is their outlook on the future. This is because WEEP (picture- Gladys, left, WEEP Kibera director with Vickie, director of HEART Africa, overseeing ministry) not only assists with medical needs but also trains these women to be tailors and artisans. They make school uniforms, tablecloth sets, clothing and jewelry that they sell. In so doing, they make enough money to care for their families (food, rent, necessities) and they have once again become functioning, "normal" members of their society. Where there was once no hope, now there is hope- these women proudly declare that they will, by God's grace, live long enough to see their children grown! That's a huge statement, considering their conditions just a few years ago.

Our time with them included listening to their stories and talking with them about what God is doing in their lives. Diane Williams brought 400 hats crocheted by women of the church (and other friends!) along with looms and needles so the ladies could learn to make and sell them! Boy, was that a hit! We practiced Swahili with these women (often poorly!), laughed and prayed with them, and gained great insight into what is happening in this part of the world. Our own worlds were shaken once again as we saw God doing the unimaginable in the most desperate of circumstances. Wow! That's the kind of shaking we need!

Kenya: We Made it to Nairobi!

2008-07-30T00:43:00.000-07:00

As I write this from the guesthouse in Nairobi where our team will stay this week, I marvel at the ability to travel so far so quickly. We have safely journeyed from Los Angeles to Minneapolis to Amsterdam and on to Kenya in such a short time span- especially when compared to those who made such trips even 50 years ago. We are tired, sated with airports for awhile, and ready to find out what God has in store for us. But the effort to get here was not without its blessings as well.

We had a 10-hour layover in Amsterdam, so we left the airport, boarded the trained and went to the heart of the city. We had tickets to tour the Ann Frank House (seen on left), and we traversed streets and canals until we found it. It was so significant to be where Ann Frank's family lived and hid from the Nazis, to hear how they managed to help others who were also persecuted because of their religious beliefs, and persevere in spite of the constant threat of being found and shipped to death camps, and to see the legacy that has taken place because of their convictions. Such a sobering experience for us all.

Today is officially a recovery day- we'll change money, walk through Nairobi to get a feel of the city, have lunch out, and begin to soak up some of the richness of this East African culture. The next couple of days will be spent in the slums of Nairobi, viewing various ministries, making home visits, and learning more about life here. Continue to pray for our health and safety, but even more that God will open our hearts to what He has for us to see, and that we will be His instruments in this part of the world.

Kenya Bound!

2008-07-27T20:33:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow is the big day as seven of us leave LAX just after noon for Kenya. We will have a 10-hour layover in Amsterdam. That's actually a good thing. It will allow us to get out for awhile and beat jet lag, and we will tour the Ann Frank House- a real treat for all of us! We will arrive in Nairobi Wed. morning around 6:00 a.m. local time (10 hours AHEAD of our southern Cal time) to begin what is shaping up to be a full 14 days in-country schedule.

Kenya is a beautiful country with gracious people who have a deep spiritual background. Once a British colony, Kenya has had the Gospel in its midst since the early 1840's and most of the 42 tribal groups found in the country have responded favorably to its message, at least to some degree. Yet with such a rich and real Christian response there are still great issues and needs among Kenya's people. The violence earlier this year reminded us that people do not have to be wounded deeply to revert back to tribal and ethnic affinities. Surely the blood of Christ, shed to make us one person, has yet to make its full impact in the lives of many. (And is this not also true of most of our cultures, regardless of how "far along" we may consider ourselves?)

Our hope these two weeks is to learn all we can about Kenyan culture and what God is doing there, as we seek to come alongside Him as serve as we have opportunity. We want to share the power and grace of God's life-changing love with those with those around us, forming relationships that allow meaningful discussion of what it means to follow in the path of Jesus. We want to encourage our brothers and sisters in this part of the world, and especially those of Tumaini International Ministries, children and staff alike. We believe that if we can be a blessing, then we will surely receive a blessing.

Follow along with us as we experience a different way of life. Remember, if you subscribe to this blog, you will automatically receive posts when they are written- you don't have to check the site. And keep us in prayer as we go- that's what makes the difference for us!

Why Samoa?

2008-07-25T21:23:00.000-07:00

Samoa is a beautiful South Pacific Polynesian island nation located 5-6 hours south and west of Hawai'i. The following are some facts about the nation:

Location: Oceania, group of islands in the South Pacific Ocean, about one-half of the way from Hawai'i to New Zealand

Population: 177,000 (2006 est.)

Area: total area: 2,860 km² land area: 2,850 km² comparative area: slightly smaller than Rhode Island
Coastline: 403 km
Environment: current issues- soil erosion natural hazards: occasional typhoons; active volcanism international agreements

Arable land use: 19% permanent crops: 24% meadows and pastures: 0% forest and woodland: 47% other: 10%
Natural resources: hardwood forests, fish
Climate: tropical; rainy season (October to March), dry season (May to October)
Terrain: narrow coastal plain with volcanic, rocky, rugged mountains in interior

Christianity was introduced in the early 1800's, and since that time the people have, for the most part, embraced its message. If so many of Samoan people know the message of Christ, why do we send teams?

Pastor Ron Gallaher, who leads this trip, tells us that church in Samoa is designed basically for adults. Little attention or nurture is given to the young people, as they are expected to sit quietly and grow up in the church, where they will then take their place. However, that expectation often leads to boredom and disinterest in spiritual matters in the lives of the youth. Additionally, the suicide rate among Samoan teens is high. KACC teams have given their attention to working with kids. This focus not only provides a different perspective about the Gospel in the eyes of young people there, but it also demonstrates a priority and methodology that Samoan adult leaders may adopt as they are challenged to reach out to their children.

We have been blessed to meet on the campus of Malua Theological Seminary in the capital city of Apia. This gives opportunity to work with students training for pastoral ministry, and to share the importance of giving attention to youth in and outside the church. The relationships developed through the years have laid a foundation for being able to share openly and have instruction and concepts willingly received by local leaders. We continue to build those relationships with a continued presence and willingness to serve.

More on this as the trip progresses...please keep the team in prayer as they prepare to give of themselves to those in another part of God's world.

Samoa GO! Team Leaving July 31

2008-07-21T15:54:00.000-07:00

The lure of the South Pacific has beckoned travelers for years. Likewise, the lure of sharing lives and serving the needs of people has attracted Knott Avenue to send short-term missions teams to the island nation of Samoa for more than fifteen years. Led by Pastor Ron Gallaher, our teams have focused much of their attention on demonstrating effective ministries and programming for children, along with interactive sports training for older youth. By viewing effective models of ministry, Samoan church leaders have replicated these kinds of ministries in their own churches and areas of service, providing effective ministry for their communities.

This year's team is a combination of two churches: Knott Avenue and West Valley Christian Church. KACC will send five, and West Valley will have fifteen on the team. They will spend their efforts again with the young people of Samoa, teaching, demonstrating and loving on the people there. Please keep them in prayer as they go: that they will have safety and good health in their venture, that their work will be effective, both with the youth and with those who will learn to do what has been demonstrated, and that they will have great unity as a team.

Australia: As We Reflect

2008-07-21T10:46:00.000-07:00

Can it really be that our team has been back in the U.S. for almost a week now?! It's funny how time can make an experience like the one we have just had seem so near and real, yet so far-away and surreal all at once. As we adjust to our regular schedules and responsibilities in this part of the world, we hold closely those thoughts, events and friendships that we experienced. Names and details may fade with time, but the overall impact will (hopefully) remain with us for years to come- as well as with those with whom we came into contact.

I (Mike) would like to write a at least a couple of posts that will provide some highlights (at least from my perspective as a leader) of our time in Australia, as well as thoughts of what we can take from our time there. Both reflections are, in my opinion, of great importance as we evaluate what we have done, seen, and left. We need to be aware of what God has done in and though us, and we want you to know as well, since many of you have supported us in some way as we have gone out. But we also must determine what we will take away from this time that will make us more of what God wants us to be as part of His Kingdom.

At this point, we would like to again thank all of you who have been there for us throughout this experience. Some of you have given materially, some have prayed, some have encouraged and assisted, but all of you have played some part in what has just taken place. Simply reading this blog has been a great strength to us! Your participation reminds us that this is truly a team effort, and everyone has a part to play.

Stay tuned for more thoughts about this trip's wrap-up, as well as new trips getting ready to blast off in the next week!

Australia: Ready to Return

2008-07-14T06:53:00.000-07:00

We have rolled into our last couple of days in Brisbane and are wrapping up in a strong fashion. This team has been one of the best we have ever taken out, and they have done an excellent job in completing our experiences here.

Our Sunday was full and blessed. We worshipped with Ann Street in the morning, with Matt and Jessica leading worship with the praise team. Leslee and Wayne shared their testimonies and Mike spoke. Following morning tea after the service, we lunched in the city then made our way to one of the local stadiums to see the Brisbane Broncos play rugby. Although they lost the game, we thoroughly enjoyed the experience and began to understand a bit better the Aussie passion for sport.

Sunday evening took us to an indigenous fellowship held in a function room at a local park. Mike preached again and we saw some respond to the invitation in need of prayer and encouragement. No trip to Brisbane would be complete without a visit to the Pancake House (also downtown) and that's where we ended up as well. Mmmmmm good!

Monday was pretty straightforward. We spent the morning at a local animal sanctuary, seeing and learning about local animals as we were able to hold koalas and feed kangaroos. After lunch we went to a local mountain site that overlooks the city, where we prayed for Brisbane and the nation. Then on to our farewell BBQ! Many showed up to eat together and wish us well. We were both a bit overwhelmed and humbled by the presence of our new friends. Following the meal (and a long time of sharing) we checked into our hotel near the airport, where we carried on a final debrief as we prepared ourselves for tomorrow's flight.

As we discussed what we learned and/or felt most strongly about, we pretty much all said that relationships which we developed were by far the most valuable asset of our experiences. And we remembered that Good News came to people, not as a tract or a set of instructions, but as a person. Just as He gave His time to developing and deepening relationships that provided opportunity to speak of God's plan and hope, so we desire to do the same, thereby earning that same kind of chance to speak to truth and grace into the lives of those around us, be they in Australia, the US or anywhere else He might lead.

We leave Tuesday morning at 10:30 for our home in the States. Please pray for us as we go- that we would be strong, alert and looking for just one more opportunity to share with someone. When we return we will post a bit more to help you see a more complete experience. Thanks so much for checking this blog. Since we began in mid-June we have had over 360 hits from throughout the world! We hope this has helped you see a bit better just what God is doing through our lives as we seek to serve Him faithfully.

Australia: Team Comments, Part 3

2008-07-12T00:53:00.000-07:00

Here they are, the final three thoughts from our GO! Team members:

Shaya- Australia has been an amazing experience. It’s a beautiful place and all the people are very friendly. The hardest thing I’ve done yet is give my testimony aloud in front of people. That was the first time I’ve ever done that and was surprised to how awesome it was to actually tell my story and show how God how worked through my life. It’s been interesting to learn about the aboriginal people and what they have been through and how they are now. It seems as though everything and everyone has a story and it’s nice to hear and learn about all the experiences people have gone through. The kids in Eidsvold were awesome and it was rewarding to see them all smile and be so happy just to see us there. I think this trip has shown me how God works in different places with all kinds of people- it’s amazing to see. I think it has encouraged me on how I can do mission at home as well through things like helping serve at community BBQs, to helping with the children’s ministry. I am blessed to have been able to come here and share my faith and hope God uses me for more opportunities in the future.

Wayne- This mission trip has been a good experience for me. The team gets along well with each other, and we don’t hesitate to help each other when someone needs it. I’ve really liked working with the kids in Eidsvold, and putting on a vacation bible school. We did crafts, and it was nice to just sit down and work with the kids. The highlight for me though was on Friday. We went to the park where they were celebrating NAIDOC and they had a big fair going on. We got to go around and watch some native dancers and singers, and got to see some nice home made things like hats and head bands. Wherever we went, the people were friendly and would sit and talk with us about their lives, and about ours. It was a good opportunity to tell why we were here and what God was doing in our lives.

Leslee- This is pretty much my first trip outside the U.S.A. It has been a life-changing experience for me. Australia is an amazing country – mostly because of the amazing people here. No matter where I have been the people have been friendly and welcoming. They are willing to give of what they have, even if they don’t have much. There is so much I did not know about Australia and the indigenous people here. I will have a lot to share when I get back home. God has been calling me to step outside of my world and my comfort zone for awhile. I am so glad that I have been obedient to go where he has called me. He has been showing me how to have a true servant’s heart. I sometimes don’t realize how fortunate I am and I need to be more aware of the struggles of other people in my neighborhood and around the world. I have truly enjoyed serving him through my experiences here, whether it be playing with the kids in Eidsvold, preparing meals or cleaning toilets. It is all for the glory of God and I am honored to be able to serve Him.

Australia: Team Comments, Part 2

2008-07-11T22:39:00.000-07:00

Here are three more of our wonderful team members with their thoughts on this trip:

Marisol- This trip has been beyond amazing. I have learned so much about the people and history here and it just made me realize how God is needed everywhere and not just at home. The people here have been amazing and the memories I am leaving with will never be forgotten. I have learned about what God wants me to do not just in another country, but at home as well. I’m leaving here with new friends, lots of memories, and an experience that has helped me to grow in my journey with the Lord. I had no idea that I would have so much fun with the children in Eidsvold and how much they enjoyed us being there with them. They wanted our attention and we were so happy to give it to them because they were the reason we were called to that place. There are so many things that I have to say but there are just no words to express what I have experienced. The community BBQ was a blast and NAIDOC was so much fun. The people here are so friendly and loving towards complete strangers that it leaves me in awe. The team that I am working with is just amazing people as well. We get along and plan to stay together when we get back. I love Australia and I hope God plans for me to return next year!

Kyle- I am back to one of my favorite parts of the world. I love this place because of the people here and the kids that we work with. I love this place so much I think I came back on this trip because of the kids that we work with. All these kids just want to be played with and be loved and that is why I came- because I love to work with kids and I love playing with kids, too. This trip has been good for me because I have learned more about what has happened to the indigenous people of this land and I plan on taking this back to the states and tell the truth about what's happened to our indigenous people.

Liz- How great is our God? I have had the honor to be in an amazing place with some incredible people. I have listened to stories of pain and sorrow, joy and laughter, and hope and prayers for a bright future for the people here. While I thought I was coming to spend time with kids, I have been enriched by the time spent with the adults as well. Listening to them talk of the pain caused at the hands of government officials who claimed to want to help. How they are working through their feelings and trusting God for their strength and future. But more importantly, to be able to share those stories with the ones who still do not know Christ and for the coming generation. I am blessed for knowing them, praying with them, crying with them and being able to encourage them. My love for the people here is so strong; please pray with me for their continued efforts in spreading the gospel in all they do. I have family here, brothers and sisters in Christ that I can’t wait to see again.

Australia: NAIDOC is Here!

2008-07-11T08:47:00.000-07:00

What's that, you say? You don't know about NAIDOC? Well, you should! NAIDOC stands for National Aboriginal and Islander Day of Celebration, and is celebrated throughout Australia this week. Our team spent the better part of the day at a festival of sorts at a park near the Central Business District (CBD) and we were overwhelmed with blessings, fun, joy, and opportunities to both learn more about the indigenous situation and share our own faith and mission here.

The celebration was a positive outlook toward the future of the indigenous population in this country. People connected with each other as they came from throughout the area for the festivities. There were booths that sold arts, handcrafts, clothing, and all things aboriginal; booths that showed the services and opportunities being offered to the indigenous communities; and booths that sold great-tasting foods of all kinds. There were cultural dances, singing and bands that played throughout the day. There were old friends who resumed long-standing friendships as they met once again.

We not only purchased enough to assist the local economy for many months, but we struck up conversations with vendors and passersby alike, conversations that allowed us to share our reason for being here at this time. And people could not have been kinder or more open as we shared. It was almost as if they were as moved by our presence as we were by theirs. NAIDOC was an unparalleled experience that gives hope for the possibilities for this small but significant part of Australia. And we (and now you) know what it means to people here.

Australia: Team Comments, Part 1

2008-07-09T01:34:00.000-07:00

Today we'd like you to hear from three of our team members (with more to follow!):

Chelsea: This trip has been such a great experience for me. All the people here are so awesome and nice and the kids are fun to play with and connect with. My favorite part of the trip is learning about all the aboriginal culture and seeing where they live. I think the hardest part of this trip for me was giving my testimony. It was hard because I have never given my testimony to a group of people before and it’s hard for me to talk to a large group of people. Although I was really nervous to give my testimony once I did I realized it wasn’t that hard and I enjoyed sharing my story. I have made so many new relationships with people here and god has challenged me in some way everyday and opened my eyes to how much I love helping people and how the littlest things make others happy. My biggest joy of all is building these new relationships and focusing my energy on serving others. Over all this has been amazing and such an awesome experience.

Matt: I have had such an amazing time on this trip. There have been many things that I know will make a lasting impact on my worldview. I’m sure you’ll read this a lot, but social injustice has been a constant theme everywhere we go. This trip could be a college course on social injustice and how it has affected the aboriginal people of Australia. It has been such an awesome/devastating experience to meet elders in the aboriginal communities and hear their stories of oppression and sadness and still be greeted with a kiss and incredible meal. I have consistently been in awe of the power of love, of grace, and of mercy and how it is lived out in the daily lives of the aboriginal Christians. I wish I could convey how powerful it has been.

Jessica: Although we know that God, His love and His people span across all cultures and countries, it is amazing to witness this first hand. More than anything, this trip has been an educational experience. I have learned about Australian history, Aboriginal culture, how to share my faith with others and how to encourage fellow believers. Several Aboriginals have openly shared their stories of slavery, abuse and mistreatment. However, in the face of adversity, they are moving forward and determined to improve their circumstances for the next generation. Aboriginals find so much of their identity in their culture and history, and I am trying to share the truth that it is even more important to identify ourselves as children of God, equally sinful, but united in grace.

Cherbourg

2008-07-07T16:58:00.000-07:00

We spent the night in Cherbourg Sunday, I don't know how to tell you how blessed we were. Everyone welcomed us with open arms. This picture is of "Uncle Robert" (one of my favorite names). He took us to the "Ration Shed. It is the same shed used to hand out rations during the time Cherbourg was a reserve. We would call it a reservation, as the Aboriginal people weren't allowed to leave. Cherbourg was one of the places people were "dumped" when the government wanted to move them from their land. The shed is now used as a cultural center, a place to learn about the past. After just a few minutes there I have a whole new understanding of what went on. I could talk for hours, but I won't. Make sure you ask one of the team members about it.

While in Cherbourg, Matt and I were featured on "US Mob" radio. The local DJ asked us why we were there. We had a great time in the studio as the rest of the team laughed at us from outside. As we left he asked us what song we would like to hear. With all the songs in the world to choose from, we picked "Lodi" by Credence. How cool are we?

As I write this we are in Eidsvold. The kids here are great. I will post again as soon as time allows.

God bless you all,

Robert

Solomon Islands: A Double Celebration!

2008-07-06T23:30:00.000-07:00

Wow! Did I hit the jackpot or what! I came to the Solomons for the dedication of the Pijin language Bible on Sunday. And if that weren't good enough, today (Monday, July 7) was the 30th anniversary of Solomon Islands independence! Let me try to encapsulate these events:

Yesterday's dedication was an auspicious occasion. To this point, only the New Testament had been translated into the local language. (English was used for the Old Testament, as England had previously ruled the Solomons.) It was noteworthy to see all groups and denominations represented during the ceremony because it demonstrated the wholehearted support of the project and the willingness of these groups to get the Bibles in their members' hands. Bob and Amy Carter and their family (seen on right with Pijin Bible) worked with a Wycliffe Translators team since 1997 to finish the Old Testament, revise the New Testament, and prepare the Scriptures for printing. The team was all here for the big event, and it was evident by the sales of the Bibles following the dedication that the populace was as excited as the workers.

Independence Day celebration began today just after 7:00 a.m. and concluded shortly after noon! The Solomon Islands is a young country, striving hard for stability and growth. It has a great Christian influence, with many of its leaders outspoken and active in their faith. Today's ceremony included introductions of foreign dignitaries, speeches given by past and present leaders, cultural dances from different tribes and regions (as seen on left), individuals recognized for their contributions to the society (of which Bob was one!), and a festive atmosphere befitting such an occasion. It was an honor to see it all up close, witnessing history in this part of the world.

During the celebration, the Pijin Bible was presented to the Prime Minister and he spoke of its value and necessity in guiding the nation. What a great endorsement! But the translation team, as overjoyed as they were, told me that they will only be happy when these Scriptures are being read and used by the people throughout this island nation. Then they will be satisfied that their labor has not been in vain. To that end may we join them in praying that God's Word will be hidden in the hearts of all those in the Solomon Islands, that they might know the One who came to give life, and that they might make Him known to all with whom they come into contact.