Thursday, March 11, 2021

Working Together



Two weekends ago we had 7 pallets of sod delivered for us to lay down.  That is 4,400 square feet of sod.  Heavy sod.  Chinch bugs and tree removals had done a lot of damage. Two friends came Friday night and and four more Saturday morning to help us and together we laid down all 7 pallets in about 7 hours.  It’s a hands on job, one piece at a time.  As I add it up, it took 27 man hours to finish!


There is absolutely no way I could have done that work alone.  As it was, I was exhausted, sore and took a nap after we finished!  


Unto, Cru’s humanitarian ministry, helps in a similar way.



In a Syrian refugee camp, a woman named A’isha and her child arrived and she was introduced to Christ by Christians in the camp.  Her life changed significantly and she says people say she “bubbles over with joy,” despite her loss.  Unto has partnered with her to provide blankets, tarps, and other supplies to help her share the gospel with other refugees. 


She has seen God answer prayers and despite opportunities to leave, she stays to care for others and lead others to Christ.  Click this sentence to watch a two minute video of her story.  


Beginning March 22, I’ll be facilitating the Unto leadership team’s quarterly strategy meetings, like I have for 5+ years.  For the last year, these quarterly meetings have all been virtual.  Instead of the time to share meals, talk, and take walks, we limit the meetings to three hours a day and focus on key elements of their strategic plan.  As you think of us, please pray for these meetings.


The work that Unto does around the world is truly amazing.  They come alongside our staff and partners and prioritize the toughest places on earth.  Places where the gospel has not made much headway.  


As they bring clean water, food & agriculture, and critical aid it provides access, credibility and effective ministry for our staff.  Often these open the doors to show the Jesus Film and plant churches. Even during the pandemic they have been able to ship containers of aid to our staff and partners, despite not being able to travel  personally to assist them.


That’s the way I think about what Jesus has called us to…a task that is  impossible to go at alone.  Thank you for your friendship and support so we can finish the task together. 


Grandson Titus saying hi! 
His baby brother arrives in April!