Sunday, December 24, 2006
Tuesday, December 12, 2006
It's a "smile" world afterall
We met a few weeks ago in a Food Court. He was on a lunch break sitting by himself. I greeted him in Arabic. He greeted me in English. We smiled. I introduced him to Lori and Daniel and told him in my broken Arabic that, in addition to Daniel, we had three daughters. He smiled. He said he also had three daughters and one son. I smiled. I praised his English and asked where he learned to speak it so well. He said he studied Engineering in Texas. I smiled. He asked me where I was from. I told him I was born in Texas. He smiled.
After I received some complimentary Arabic tips, we exchanged mobile numbers. We agreed that we should meet sometime over coffee when we had more time to continue my free lesson. We smiled.
“Sometime” was Sunday evening. We met at Starbucks. The conversation was natural, effortless, and most enjoyable. The Arabic “tutorial” only lasted about 20 minutes as we began to talk about life – family, sports, work, beliefs. He said sports was a big part of his life. I told him that there was a time when sports was my life. I shared my story. I told him how I started following Jesus at a sports camp. I explained that I am still following Him today, and that He led us to this city.
We shook hands at about 11:00 p.m. Before we parted, we agreed that we should get our families together – perhaps for a little BBQ in the desert under the stars. We smiled again.
How do two people – separated by thousands of miles all these years – “find” each other and discover we have so much in common? Only God knows. How is it possible to form an instant friendship with someone whose beliefs are so different? Only God knows. Smile!
After I received some complimentary Arabic tips, we exchanged mobile numbers. We agreed that we should meet sometime over coffee when we had more time to continue my free lesson. We smiled.
“Sometime” was Sunday evening. We met at Starbucks. The conversation was natural, effortless, and most enjoyable. The Arabic “tutorial” only lasted about 20 minutes as we began to talk about life – family, sports, work, beliefs. He said sports was a big part of his life. I told him that there was a time when sports was my life. I shared my story. I told him how I started following Jesus at a sports camp. I explained that I am still following Him today, and that He led us to this city.
We shook hands at about 11:00 p.m. Before we parted, we agreed that we should get our families together – perhaps for a little BBQ in the desert under the stars. We smiled again.
How do two people – separated by thousands of miles all these years – “find” each other and discover we have so much in common? Only God knows. How is it possible to form an instant friendship with someone whose beliefs are so different? Only God knows. Smile!
Tuesday, November 21, 2006
Falconry anyone?
When my local friend began talking to me about his hobby of falconry a couple of months ago, I knew I wanted to go with him some time. I took an interest - it wasn't hard. He said when the weather cooled off, we would do it.
A few weeks ago, I got the call. I was pumped. What a great opportunity to experience the desert outdoors, see some incredible birds in action, and spend time with my friend away from his work.
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A few weeks ago, I got the call. I was pumped. What a great opportunity to experience the desert outdoors, see some incredible birds in action, and spend time with my friend away from his work.
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These birds are amazing. One by one they would take turns going after pigeons or - in one case a duck - that had been released before they were turned loose to go after their prey. They did not mess around - as you can see below.
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I had a blast. More importantly, I feel like my friend and I had some great "male bonding." I must admit, when I was the only "gringo" in the group of about 10 locals all training their falcons, I had one of those "I can't believe I'm out here" kind of moments.
I couldn't help but smile. Jesus said, "Follow me, and I'll make you fishers of men." I'm starting to get the picture.
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Save The Day
I was reading a few weeks ago the familiar story of Jesus turning water into wine. I was struck by the parallells and application points for our team. Today, as I sit at the local coffee shop, typing this journal entry, men from my target people group are all around me. Lord, they need your wine. Do it again...save the day.
I know the blog posting below is long. It was written originally as more of a journal entry. But in case you have time to read it, I pray it gives you some insight on how to pray for our team and our people group.
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<
Jesus and his new followers were invited to a wedding. Just a few days before this special occasion, Jesus began the process of calling those who would follow him over the next few years. But they weren’t the only people who knew Jesus that were invited to the wedding. His beloved mother Mary was there too.
At some point during the wedding, the Wedding Party came to what was probably an embarrassing realization that they had run out of wine. Uh-oh. Now what? Evidently, Mary had some emotional vested interest because she felt the need to come to the rescue. She did the only thing she knew to do. She asked her son to save the day.
Jesus’ response was anything but sympathetic. “Woman, what do I have to do with you?”
What? You’ve got to be kidding me! Did Jesus REALLY say that? Yes, He said it. That’s not up for debate. But HOW did he say it? Was it a firm rebuke --- said with a frown? Or was it more of a “come on mom, you’re not REALLY asking me to make wine are you” --- said with a smile?
It is not clear to me HOW Jesus responded but the next words of Jesus do shed some light on WHY He responded this way: “My hour has not yet come.” Isn’t it interesting that even to the One who transcends time, timing is everything.
End of story, right? Not hardly. Jesus’ mother Mary had the audacity to not take “no” for an answer. She persistently, stubbornly (maybe even presumptuously?) said to the servants standing by, “Whatever He says to you, do it.”
And “do it” --- He did! Not in a flashy, televangelist – kind of way. Jesus did it in a quiet, subtle way. He simply asked the nearby attendants to perform an ordinary, routine activity by filling six stone waterpots - used by the Jews for purification. And He asked them to fill them to the brim with water! The rest is history.
He did it. Jesus saved the day. He “manifested His glory” and “His disciples believed in Him.” He took a hopeless, embarrassing situation and not only provided MORE wine but DIFFERENT AND BETTER wine. In fact, it was so much better that the headwaiter – evidently unaware of the miracle – could hardly believe what the “bridegroom” had done. The headwaiter got it right – sort of. It was a bridegroom, all right. It just wasn’t the bridegroom of that wedding. It was another bridegroom – the One on whom we await His return.
The application of the above story to our current context is stunning. Can you see it? Let me try to paint the picture…
This is a culture, believe it or not, that is not void of Jesus. Jesus is esteemed in the Muslim holy book. But in their daily lives, He is just in the backdrop – just another guest at the wedding so to speak. He certainly is NOT the main attraction.
Muslims believe Isa (Jesus’ name in Arabic) was a great prophet. They believe He was sent from God and they even believe He is coming again some day. They just don’t believe He is the Son of God. They are unaware of His power and relevance to their life. Meanwhile, Jesus - the Bridegroom of the ultimate heavenly wedding – waits, patiently for his hour – the time He will be revealed for who He really is to these dear people.
The wine they are currently drinking (religious tradition) is going to run out to be sure. Many know this already deep down in their hearts. Religious wine never satisfies and it never lasts – regardless of culture. Only a relationship with the Bridegroom satisfies our deepest longings.
Our team has been praying that those that we meet in our people group will see that Jesus offers a different and better wine. It is the wine of His presence – His precious Holy Spirit. We, the attendants, are standing by. We believe He has asked us – through our team leader – to do six rather basic activities – to fill up six waterpots with water, if you will. They are as follows:
1) To know our testimony so well that we can present it in under 3 minutes and to always be looking for opportunties to share it. (The long term goal is to know our stories in Arabic – but that is a ways down the road for Lori and me!)
2) To become really familiar with a key passage in the Qur'an that talks specifically about Jesus. (I know this is going to be a stretch for some of you but bare with me.) Next time your out at your local Barnes and Nobles, pick up a copy of the Qur'an and read for yourself Surrah Al Imron 3:42-55. You won’t believe it. It is a perfect passage to raise Jesus above “prophet” status in the minds of our Muslim friends and build a bridge to the Bible. That is our goal.
3) To learn and share the “Creation to Christ” presentation of the Gospel in under 10 minutes.
4) To learn and share short powerful stories from both the Old and New Testaments to be used as the Spirit directs. The Qu’ran says a good muslim will read the “before books” – the Taurat (Gen. through Deut), the Wisdom books (Psalms and Proverbs) and the Injeel (Gospels).
5) To identify and locate men and women of peace that we can invest in and disciple – for some, even before they become believers!
6) To pray… for divine appointments and for discernment to identify the persons of peace and gatekeepers who will be instrumental in facilitating a church planting movement in this country.
Six basic methods. Six “stone waterpots.” But out of obedience, we are going to fill them up (carry them out as diligently as we can). Our prayer is for Jesus to hasten the day that He “manifests His glory” to our people group. We know they will stand before the throne some day. Why couldn’t these days be their time? Only He can provide the Wine they are really looking for.
Still I come back to this basic question: Why did Jesus ultimately carry out his mother's request? He was asked.
So we too plead. Lord, “they have no wine”. Do it again in our time. SAVE THE DAY!
I know the blog posting below is long. It was written originally as more of a journal entry. But in case you have time to read it, I pray it gives you some insight on how to pray for our team and our people group.
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<
Jesus and his new followers were invited to a wedding. Just a few days before this special occasion, Jesus began the process of calling those who would follow him over the next few years. But they weren’t the only people who knew Jesus that were invited to the wedding. His beloved mother Mary was there too.
At some point during the wedding, the Wedding Party came to what was probably an embarrassing realization that they had run out of wine. Uh-oh. Now what? Evidently, Mary had some emotional vested interest because she felt the need to come to the rescue. She did the only thing she knew to do. She asked her son to save the day.
Jesus’ response was anything but sympathetic. “Woman, what do I have to do with you?”
What? You’ve got to be kidding me! Did Jesus REALLY say that? Yes, He said it. That’s not up for debate. But HOW did he say it? Was it a firm rebuke --- said with a frown? Or was it more of a “come on mom, you’re not REALLY asking me to make wine are you” --- said with a smile?
It is not clear to me HOW Jesus responded but the next words of Jesus do shed some light on WHY He responded this way: “My hour has not yet come.” Isn’t it interesting that even to the One who transcends time, timing is everything.
End of story, right? Not hardly. Jesus’ mother Mary had the audacity to not take “no” for an answer. She persistently, stubbornly (maybe even presumptuously?) said to the servants standing by, “Whatever He says to you, do it.”
And “do it” --- He did! Not in a flashy, televangelist – kind of way. Jesus did it in a quiet, subtle way. He simply asked the nearby attendants to perform an ordinary, routine activity by filling six stone waterpots - used by the Jews for purification. And He asked them to fill them to the brim with water! The rest is history.
He did it. Jesus saved the day. He “manifested His glory” and “His disciples believed in Him.” He took a hopeless, embarrassing situation and not only provided MORE wine but DIFFERENT AND BETTER wine. In fact, it was so much better that the headwaiter – evidently unaware of the miracle – could hardly believe what the “bridegroom” had done. The headwaiter got it right – sort of. It was a bridegroom, all right. It just wasn’t the bridegroom of that wedding. It was another bridegroom – the One on whom we await His return.
The application of the above story to our current context is stunning. Can you see it? Let me try to paint the picture…
This is a culture, believe it or not, that is not void of Jesus. Jesus is esteemed in the Muslim holy book. But in their daily lives, He is just in the backdrop – just another guest at the wedding so to speak. He certainly is NOT the main attraction.
Muslims believe Isa (Jesus’ name in Arabic) was a great prophet. They believe He was sent from God and they even believe He is coming again some day. They just don’t believe He is the Son of God. They are unaware of His power and relevance to their life. Meanwhile, Jesus - the Bridegroom of the ultimate heavenly wedding – waits, patiently for his hour – the time He will be revealed for who He really is to these dear people.
The wine they are currently drinking (religious tradition) is going to run out to be sure. Many know this already deep down in their hearts. Religious wine never satisfies and it never lasts – regardless of culture. Only a relationship with the Bridegroom satisfies our deepest longings.
Our team has been praying that those that we meet in our people group will see that Jesus offers a different and better wine. It is the wine of His presence – His precious Holy Spirit. We, the attendants, are standing by. We believe He has asked us – through our team leader – to do six rather basic activities – to fill up six waterpots with water, if you will. They are as follows:
1) To know our testimony so well that we can present it in under 3 minutes and to always be looking for opportunties to share it. (The long term goal is to know our stories in Arabic – but that is a ways down the road for Lori and me!)
2) To become really familiar with a key passage in the Qur'an that talks specifically about Jesus. (I know this is going to be a stretch for some of you but bare with me.) Next time your out at your local Barnes and Nobles, pick up a copy of the Qur'an and read for yourself Surrah Al Imron 3:42-55. You won’t believe it. It is a perfect passage to raise Jesus above “prophet” status in the minds of our Muslim friends and build a bridge to the Bible. That is our goal.
3) To learn and share the “Creation to Christ” presentation of the Gospel in under 10 minutes.
4) To learn and share short powerful stories from both the Old and New Testaments to be used as the Spirit directs. The Qu’ran says a good muslim will read the “before books” – the Taurat (Gen. through Deut), the Wisdom books (Psalms and Proverbs) and the Injeel (Gospels).
5) To identify and locate men and women of peace that we can invest in and disciple – for some, even before they become believers!
6) To pray… for divine appointments and for discernment to identify the persons of peace and gatekeepers who will be instrumental in facilitating a church planting movement in this country.
Six basic methods. Six “stone waterpots.” But out of obedience, we are going to fill them up (carry them out as diligently as we can). Our prayer is for Jesus to hasten the day that He “manifests His glory” to our people group. We know they will stand before the throne some day. Why couldn’t these days be their time? Only He can provide the Wine they are really looking for.
Still I come back to this basic question: Why did Jesus ultimately carry out his mother's request? He was asked.
So we too plead. Lord, “they have no wine”. Do it again in our time. SAVE THE DAY!
Monday, October 23, 2006
GQ Spidyman
Daniel is enjoying his brief stint at potty training so far - or should I say he is enjoying the fruit of his labor - SKITTLES!!! Anyway, he is very proud of himself and loves his spiderman big-boy underwear!
Anybody need a GQ underwear model? Gotta be that dapper 3 dollar Indian haircut!
Spanning the globe in a single stride, it's spiderman, no it's skittle-boy, no its...its...Daniel Walker... my son, wherever His call and your feet take you in this world, from your homeland in Central America to the Middle East or to any remote island on the globe, remember our King makes ALL nations his footstool. Your feet are beautiful...take them the Good News son!
Holidays, Training, and Skittles
I just checked weather.com for the temperature in Paron, Arkansas. I shouldn’t have. Thirrrrteeeeee-fiiiiive degrees. My neck is starting to swell. (If you are not a hunter, you probably don’t get that so just keep moving!)
We're still topping 100 degrees just about every day. To make matters worse, my good friend Warren sent me a photo of a nice 9 point buck he bagged this weekend. (It’s OK Warren, I know I asked for it.) To the rest of the hunting community out there, keep the hunting and scouting reports coming! It helps in a weird sort of way.
We’re doing a little better with the culture shock but still struggling from time to time with missing home. The girls are fine. Lori and I seem to be struggling the most. I keep telling myself that in light of eternity, this little and momentary sacrifice pales in comparison. I know that is true. But it hasn’t taken away the special place we have in our hearts for Little Rock.
Today the country is celebrating a special holiday that follows Ramadan every year known as Eid al Fitr. What is Eid al Fitr? Click here for a good summary of Ramadan and Eid al Fitr: www.factmonster.com/spot/ramadan1.html. (As I type, I hear fireworks outside!)
So what does that mean for us? School is out for the week! Yippeee!!!
Today…. Lori and the girls are in the “shop til you drop” mode hitting all the big sales. Yes, materialism is alive and well. It is like America on steroids. Daniel and I GLADLY dropped the girls off at the mall earlier and will pick them up I’m sure MUCH later.
Tomorrow…we have our weekly strategy group meeting in the morning. Then we have friends coming over to have lunch to hang out and watch the Cowboys vs. Giants on Monday Night Football game (re-aired). After that, we may hit the beach, which is only 10 minutes from our apartment. Our family will be minus two since Hannah and Katelyn will be going on a five hour road trip to Muscat, Oman. They will be attending a regional youth praise event with some other high school girls in their small group. After the event, they will spend the night in Oman, swim an shop the next morning, and return late Wednesday afternoon.
Wednesday… we will attend our weekly small group meeting. It just got started but it promises to be one of our weekly highlights. Talk about a diverse group! Eight adults and six children from 4 different countries! Yet the unity we have because of Christ is amazing.
Thursday… my Arabic class resumes. We only have about 6 more classes until this first semester is over. Then Beginners 2 starts mid-November. Neither Lori or I feel ready to advance to Beginners 2 but I guess you have to take off the training wheels at some point.
Speaking of training, a notable highlight of this week to pass along, is that Daniel is starting to wear big-boy spiderman underoos. He is highly motivated for the reward of choice – SKITTLES! So about every 15 minutes, whether he has to go or not (usually he does) he lets us know that it is time to go potty. NEVER a dull moment.
And, in keeping with the training theme, next week I go to Bahrain for a training conference. It should be a good time of equipping and vision casting for workers in the Arabian Peninsula.
Thanks for remembering to pray for us! The battle is starting to heat up and we NEED your prayers.
We're still topping 100 degrees just about every day. To make matters worse, my good friend Warren sent me a photo of a nice 9 point buck he bagged this weekend. (It’s OK Warren, I know I asked for it.) To the rest of the hunting community out there, keep the hunting and scouting reports coming! It helps in a weird sort of way.
We’re doing a little better with the culture shock but still struggling from time to time with missing home. The girls are fine. Lori and I seem to be struggling the most. I keep telling myself that in light of eternity, this little and momentary sacrifice pales in comparison. I know that is true. But it hasn’t taken away the special place we have in our hearts for Little Rock.
Today the country is celebrating a special holiday that follows Ramadan every year known as Eid al Fitr. What is Eid al Fitr? Click here for a good summary of Ramadan and Eid al Fitr: www.factmonster.com/spot/ramadan1.html. (As I type, I hear fireworks outside!)
So what does that mean for us? School is out for the week! Yippeee!!!
Today…. Lori and the girls are in the “shop til you drop” mode hitting all the big sales. Yes, materialism is alive and well. It is like America on steroids. Daniel and I GLADLY dropped the girls off at the mall earlier and will pick them up I’m sure MUCH later.
Tomorrow…we have our weekly strategy group meeting in the morning. Then we have friends coming over to have lunch to hang out and watch the Cowboys vs. Giants on Monday Night Football game (re-aired). After that, we may hit the beach, which is only 10 minutes from our apartment. Our family will be minus two since Hannah and Katelyn will be going on a five hour road trip to Muscat, Oman. They will be attending a regional youth praise event with some other high school girls in their small group. After the event, they will spend the night in Oman, swim an shop the next morning, and return late Wednesday afternoon.
Wednesday… we will attend our weekly small group meeting. It just got started but it promises to be one of our weekly highlights. Talk about a diverse group! Eight adults and six children from 4 different countries! Yet the unity we have because of Christ is amazing.
Thursday… my Arabic class resumes. We only have about 6 more classes until this first semester is over. Then Beginners 2 starts mid-November. Neither Lori or I feel ready to advance to Beginners 2 but I guess you have to take off the training wheels at some point.
Speaking of training, a notable highlight of this week to pass along, is that Daniel is starting to wear big-boy spiderman underoos. He is highly motivated for the reward of choice – SKITTLES! So about every 15 minutes, whether he has to go or not (usually he does) he lets us know that it is time to go potty. NEVER a dull moment.
And, in keeping with the training theme, next week I go to Bahrain for a training conference. It should be a good time of equipping and vision casting for workers in the Arabian Peninsula.
Thanks for remembering to pray for us! The battle is starting to heat up and we NEED your prayers.
Sunday, October 01, 2006
Eagles Soar Over ASD
All three of the Burns Bunch girls play on the AAG (American Academy for Girls) JV Volleyball team (yes, even Betsy in 6th Grade made the team!). The season started two weeks ago against last year's champion, Dubai American Academy (DAA). DAA won easily but the AAG Eagles (American Academy for Girls) played well. They were to be commended for their sportsmanship, hustle, and teamwork. Considering this is only AAG's second year and is about one-sixth the size of DAA, they did REAL well.
Last Monday, we hosted the 2nd place team from last year - The American School of Dubai. ASD is the oldest and most established American school in Dubai. After a very competitive, very spirited game, the AAG Eagles prevailed: 25-22; 18-25; 25-23. Needless to say, all the girls on our team were bubbling over with confidence and Eagle Pride! It was just what the team needed to head into the rest of the season with optimism.
Last Monday, we hosted the 2nd place team from last year - The American School of Dubai. ASD is the oldest and most established American school in Dubai. After a very competitive, very spirited game, the AAG Eagles prevailed: 25-22; 18-25; 25-23. Needless to say, all the girls on our team were bubbling over with confidence and Eagle Pride! It was just what the team needed to head into the rest of the season with optimism.
Hannah, Alex (new friend and teammate from Poland), Betsy, and Katelyn
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Hannah (#4) at the net! Yep, their numbers are in Arabic!
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Not sure what was going on in Betsy's head as this photo was taken but I think it was something like this..."Dad, should I be concerned?"
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Katelyn practicing a set before the game. "If Coach Krista could see me now!"
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Gooooooo....Eagles!
Play Day
When Lori attends Arabic classes on Monday and Wednesday mornings, Dad and Daniel head off to some nearby beach or park for a good ol' "play day". It has been a real blessing to have this time to cultivate our father/son relationship. Although we have had Daniel in our family for nearly a year and a half now, we are still getting to know each other! Needless to say, we have had lots of fun playing in the sand and the sun!
Daniel venturing into the Persian Gulf!
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Not sure if we left any sand on the beach!
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Just monkeying around!
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Daniel and Dad do the Dubai Zoo! "Did you say b-b-bear?"
October 1st Blues
I woke up this morning
In the usual way
Had breakfast with my family
And we rushed into our day
But this day seemed peculiar
By joe, what could it be?
If I was not mistaken
Something was calling me
Then it hit me on our way to school
It sounded like the call of the wild
Autumn visions of Arkansas
Were enough to make me smile
Today, you see, is October 1st
And if I were still back in Dodge
I would be out in the woods, sitting high in a tree
Wearing scent and full camoflauge
I can see myself standing high in the pines
Above my ladder stand's top rung
Drawing back by bow and arrow
On a monster “Pope and Young”
Alas, October Blues have come
I admit that I have a bad case
But the center of God’s will is where I want to be still
Being content in the desert place
In the usual way
Had breakfast with my family
And we rushed into our day
But this day seemed peculiar
By joe, what could it be?
If I was not mistaken
Something was calling me
Then it hit me on our way to school
It sounded like the call of the wild
Autumn visions of Arkansas
Were enough to make me smile
Today, you see, is October 1st
And if I were still back in Dodge
I would be out in the woods, sitting high in a tree
Wearing scent and full camoflauge
I can see myself standing high in the pines
Above my ladder stand's top rung
Drawing back by bow and arrow
On a monster “Pope and Young”
Alas, October Blues have come
I admit that I have a bad case
But the center of God’s will is where I want to be still
Being content in the desert place
Tuesday, September 12, 2006
School Days, School Days
Thanks for praying for our girls' transition. They are off to a good start this school year and have made many new friends.
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The Burns Bunch Babes (Katelyn, Betsy, and Hannah) sporting their new school uniforms on the first day of school!
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Betsy is taking Math, Science, English, Social Studies, Arabic, P.E. (including swimming!) and is playing volleyball for the Developmental Squad.
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Katelyn is taking Geometry, English, Spanish, Arabic, P.E., World History, Physical Science and is on the J.V. volleyball squad!
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Ditto for Hannah! There are two 9th grade classes but H&K are in all the same classes except P.E. There is one other set of twins in the 9th grade!
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Daniel trying on Betsy's swim cap and goggles! And proud mom of course!
1st Burns Bunch B-Day in the Middle East!
Betsy turned 11 on September 1 and we had a weeklong celebration. First we bought and assembled her new loft bed from the IKEA store that she had been saving her pennies for. Then we surprised her and told her it was our gift to her! Then we went skating with a new friend Betsy has made and their family. Then we had pancake breakfast in bed on her actual birthday. Fun was had by all and we made some good family memories in the Middle East!
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Outside the ice skating rink with the Burns and Burtch Bunch - and a few feathered (or wooden) friends!
Betsy and Rebecca demonstrating amazing doubles form as they stand still - on ice!
Hannah and Uncle Mark working on Daniel's form. He's aiming for the 2014 winter games.
Breakfast in... a LOFT bed?
Lori decorated Betsy's cake perfectly since she loves rubber ducks, chocolate, and playing Scrabble!
Monday, September 11, 2006
No pain, no gain?
Vince Lombardi must have been a little sick to make that “no pain, no gain” statement that has become a quotable quote over the years. It’s the “pain” part that I don’t like. In fact, you might say that I have a love/hate relationship with working out – mostly hate. I only love it when I’m done!
But working out here isn’t much of an option. Our company places a high value on maintaining good health and getting in shape and staying in shape on the field. So I knew when we arrived that getting into an exercise routine of some kind was something I had to do.
But where? There are really no viable options near our apartment. Traffic makes cycling or even running not a safe option. And swimming in our apartment’s little “kiddy” pool, really wouldn’t qualify as “exercise”.
Before we moved from Little Rock, I had begun to swim for a few months, so swimming was my first choice for exercise here. I began to look for a real pool. For a while, all I could find close by was a new gym near the school. But the fees of about $100/month, I determined, would be a budget buster. So I kept looking.
Then I found it! A park - just five minutes down the road from the girls’ school. It has two separate 25 meter pools (one for men and one for women – both pools completely fenced in and separated from the other) a nice place to jog, lots of playground areas and equipment for Daniel, more doves than I’ve ever seen in a Texas sunflower patch in September, and a nice little burger shop. The next to best part was the membership price: under $8/month!!! Yep, you read it right. Less than 8 dollars a month and yes, I said it was the “next to best” part! So, what is the best part?
Without a doubt, the best part has been the three friends that I’ve made there so far. Two young men - both great athletes from another middle eastern country – work at the park as lifeguards. The other friend I’ve made works in the office. I have experienced favor with each of these men.
One of the lifeguards wants to help me with my Arabic in exchange for help with his English – he has a huge head start!
The other lifeguard has competed as swimmer for his country on a world level, and wants to help me with my swimming – just because he’s a nice guy. (Honestly, I think he feels sorry for me because my technique needs A LOT of help!) This morning was my first workout with him "TRAINing" me. I thought I was a decent swimmer until he got through with me.
And finally, the office guy wants to take me hunting! I was telling him that I love to hunt and will certainly miss hunting back in the states. He said he will take me when it gets cooler in the fall. But this kind of hunting sounds different than any other kind of hunting I’ve ever done. He wants to take me “falcon” hunting. No, we won’t hunt FOR falcons, we will hunt WITH them! Falconry is really big here in the UAE and I can’t wait to experience it.
Please pray for my three new friends. They have been very good to me. I would like for God to bless them and reveal Himself to them. And pray for me as I joyfully participate in the process.
“No pain, no gain.” I don’t know how much physical gain I will experience while I’m here. But I do hope the “pain” serves the purpose of producing some eternal gain. In fact, I’m so stoked about that, I’m ALMOST enjoying the pain! Almost.
But working out here isn’t much of an option. Our company places a high value on maintaining good health and getting in shape and staying in shape on the field. So I knew when we arrived that getting into an exercise routine of some kind was something I had to do.
But where? There are really no viable options near our apartment. Traffic makes cycling or even running not a safe option. And swimming in our apartment’s little “kiddy” pool, really wouldn’t qualify as “exercise”.
Before we moved from Little Rock, I had begun to swim for a few months, so swimming was my first choice for exercise here. I began to look for a real pool. For a while, all I could find close by was a new gym near the school. But the fees of about $100/month, I determined, would be a budget buster. So I kept looking.
Then I found it! A park - just five minutes down the road from the girls’ school. It has two separate 25 meter pools (one for men and one for women – both pools completely fenced in and separated from the other) a nice place to jog, lots of playground areas and equipment for Daniel, more doves than I’ve ever seen in a Texas sunflower patch in September, and a nice little burger shop. The next to best part was the membership price: under $8/month!!! Yep, you read it right. Less than 8 dollars a month and yes, I said it was the “next to best” part! So, what is the best part?
Without a doubt, the best part has been the three friends that I’ve made there so far. Two young men - both great athletes from another middle eastern country – work at the park as lifeguards. The other friend I’ve made works in the office. I have experienced favor with each of these men.
One of the lifeguards wants to help me with my Arabic in exchange for help with his English – he has a huge head start!
The other lifeguard has competed as swimmer for his country on a world level, and wants to help me with my swimming – just because he’s a nice guy. (Honestly, I think he feels sorry for me because my technique needs A LOT of help!) This morning was my first workout with him "TRAINing" me. I thought I was a decent swimmer until he got through with me.
And finally, the office guy wants to take me hunting! I was telling him that I love to hunt and will certainly miss hunting back in the states. He said he will take me when it gets cooler in the fall. But this kind of hunting sounds different than any other kind of hunting I’ve ever done. He wants to take me “falcon” hunting. No, we won’t hunt FOR falcons, we will hunt WITH them! Falconry is really big here in the UAE and I can’t wait to experience it.
Please pray for my three new friends. They have been very good to me. I would like for God to bless them and reveal Himself to them. And pray for me as I joyfully participate in the process.
“No pain, no gain.” I don’t know how much physical gain I will experience while I’m here. But I do hope the “pain” serves the purpose of producing some eternal gain. In fact, I’m so stoked about that, I’m ALMOST enjoying the pain! Almost.
The Secret
“I never made a sacrifice.”
So said Hudson Taylor, looking back over his life of service in China in which that element was certainly not lacking. But if you have purposed to surrender all to follow Christ, you have undoubtedly experienced this truth. The benefits of walking with the Lord are so real and lasting “that giving up is inevitably receiving, when one is dealing with the heart of God.” (Quotes were taken from Hudson Taylor’s Spiritual Secret by Dr. and Mrs. Howard Taylor.)
This has fueled some recent discussion in our home about what it means to be content. What is the secret? Hudson Taylor learned it. The Apostle Paul learned it too. Paul wrote, “I have learned to be content in whatever circumstances I am. I know how to get along with humble means, and I also know how to live in prosperity; in any and every circumstance I have learned the secret of being filled and going hungry, both of having abundance and suffering need.” Philippians 4:11b-12
The secret? It is stated or at least implied in the next verse.
“I can do all things through Him who strengthens me.” Philippians 4:13
When I was saved and began to follow Christ in high school, the first verse I memorized was this verse – Philippians 4:13. However, I’m ashamed to say that I tried to apply this verse out of context to serve my own agenda. Back then, even as a new believer, football was my passion. I claimed this verse over and over again that I could become (through Christ) the best college football quarterback since Doug Flutie. (I know, I’m dating myself.) But Paul was not stating this conviction in the context of becoming the best teacher in Rome or the greatest gospel ambassador in Asia but it was in the context of being content. He had learned the secret of the exchanged life – trading his life for the life Christ offered Him – the life of Christ Himself.
You see, when you and I agree by faith with the truth of Scripture, we really believe that we are dead men and women, crucified with Christ. And we take that progression all the way by faith and truly believe that we no longer live but Christ lives in us. Then, and only then, are we able to say with Paul that we can be content in ALL circumstances BECAUSE we CAN do all things THROUGH Christ who strengthens us. Isn’t that remarkable? And it is such a remarkable secret that it is worth not only whispering to everyone we meet but shouting it from the mountaintops (or, in this case, posting it on our blog!)
I hope this “secret” blesses you and challenges you as it is blessing us. Please pray for us – as we continue to transition into a new culture – that we will be content in all of our circumstances.
So said Hudson Taylor, looking back over his life of service in China in which that element was certainly not lacking. But if you have purposed to surrender all to follow Christ, you have undoubtedly experienced this truth. The benefits of walking with the Lord are so real and lasting “that giving up is inevitably receiving, when one is dealing with the heart of God.” (Quotes were taken from Hudson Taylor’s Spiritual Secret by Dr. and Mrs. Howard Taylor.)
This has fueled some recent discussion in our home about what it means to be content. What is the secret? Hudson Taylor learned it. The Apostle Paul learned it too. Paul wrote, “I have learned to be content in whatever circumstances I am. I know how to get along with humble means, and I also know how to live in prosperity; in any and every circumstance I have learned the secret of being filled and going hungry, both of having abundance and suffering need.” Philippians 4:11b-12
The secret? It is stated or at least implied in the next verse.
“I can do all things through Him who strengthens me.” Philippians 4:13
When I was saved and began to follow Christ in high school, the first verse I memorized was this verse – Philippians 4:13. However, I’m ashamed to say that I tried to apply this verse out of context to serve my own agenda. Back then, even as a new believer, football was my passion. I claimed this verse over and over again that I could become (through Christ) the best college football quarterback since Doug Flutie. (I know, I’m dating myself.) But Paul was not stating this conviction in the context of becoming the best teacher in Rome or the greatest gospel ambassador in Asia but it was in the context of being content. He had learned the secret of the exchanged life – trading his life for the life Christ offered Him – the life of Christ Himself.
You see, when you and I agree by faith with the truth of Scripture, we really believe that we are dead men and women, crucified with Christ. And we take that progression all the way by faith and truly believe that we no longer live but Christ lives in us. Then, and only then, are we able to say with Paul that we can be content in ALL circumstances BECAUSE we CAN do all things THROUGH Christ who strengthens us. Isn’t that remarkable? And it is such a remarkable secret that it is worth not only whispering to everyone we meet but shouting it from the mountaintops (or, in this case, posting it on our blog!)
I hope this “secret” blesses you and challenges you as it is blessing us. Please pray for us – as we continue to transition into a new culture – that we will be content in all of our circumstances.
Sunday, August 27, 2006
Apartment Life
Here are some photos of our apartment...
A mosque under construction right outside our apartment nears completion
Between our apartment and the mosque another building is going up!
Living Room
Kitchen
Dining Area
Apartment Play area
Our 12 story apartment!
Our wheels!
Friday, August 25, 2006
Waiting
Singer Tom Petty was right. “The waiting (really) is the hardest part.”
This painstaking word – waiting – seems to best sum up our first three weeks on the field. Praise the Lord though, our family is adjusting very well in spite of these "character-building" opportunities!
Since we arrived, we’ve found ourselves …
- Waiting in line to get blood tests and x-rays (medical clearance is necessary for a resident visa) – 6 hours
- Waiting in line on multiple trips to see the “typist” so that he can complete several forms for our visa applications – 5 hours
- Waiting to get internet service in our apartment (resident permit was required first) – 3 weeks
- Waiting in traffic – for who knows how long!
- Waiting to begin our “real” work – still waiting!
So why is this process of waiting so difficult, after all? I’ve come home, after spending hours waiting in lines or grid-lock traffic, plumb exhausted. I think it is because waiting is the work of patience and faith. Do you agree? Through our first three weeks, God has been faithful to us each and every day.
Beyond the lines and traffic, the rest of our time has been spent…
- Swimming and hanging with old college friends working in this city
- Eating meals on four different occasions with new, ex-pat friends
- Having meaningful talks with people from Pakistan, Dubai, and Egypt
- Taking road trips to Oman and Abu Dhabi for work purposes
- Going to three different churches (all were great services)
- Buying uniforms for school (gulp! Do uniforms REALLY cost that much???)
- Reading together as a family (great novel called “Blessed Child” by Ted Dekker and Bill Bright)
- Drinking frappocino’s at my Starbucks "office" and talking to my new friend from Syria (Sadly, I’ll not be going to almost daily to check e-mail now that we finally have internet at home!)
Time to wrap up this “post”. Before I close, let me ask you a question… For what are you waiting? Jot us a note. It would be our privilege to return the blessing by praying for you. Besides, we’ve had lots of practice. And chances are, it won't be long before we find ourselves back in that familar place of waiting. We'll try to take advantage of the unexpected time on our hands and remember your request!
Keep waiting and watching for the Lord’s return. It won’t be long! Then, (could it really be true?) all waiting will be over!!!
Thursday, August 24, 2006
Get your Burns Bunch family photo!
If you would like to receive a family photo card shown below, simply e-mail us at: goburnsbunch@gmail.com and give us your physical address. We'll have one (or more) mailed to you from the states. Feel free to request as many as you want - one or more for yourself and as many as you would like to give away to family or friends. You can help us build up the network of people praying for us and the UAE.
Thanks for your partnership!
Front
Back
Thursday, August 10, 2006
A picture is worth a thousand words
It is true. A picture is worth a thousand words.
But this picture, although it communicates great memories were made in the catching of fish, fails to convey the great time that was had by all as we invested in some very meaningful family relationships just days before heading to the field.
Thanks for praying for us. Mission accomplished!
But this picture, although it communicates great memories were made in the catching of fish, fails to convey the great time that was had by all as we invested in some very meaningful family relationships just days before heading to the field.
Thanks for praying for us. Mission accomplished!
We are here! We are here!
To quote all the "Whos" down in "Whoville" ("The Grinch That Stole Christmas").... "We are here, we are here, we are here, we are heeeerrrrrrre!"
I must admit, it all felt like a dream. And it was late enough to be one!
After a pretty eventful trip, we arrived at the airport gate in our destination city at the correct time (11 p.m.) but a whole day later than scheduled.
Bad weather in the "windy city" forced us to stay overnight. But after two cancelled flights, we were able to get back on track. All's well that ends well.
A "welcome service" greeted us at the airport gate as we de-planed and drove us through the airport on their speedy cart. Daniel was impressed. The welcome service whisked us to the front of the customs line like we were VIPs and then on to baggage claim.
As I was standing there with my family watching all but two of our trunks and suitcases unloaded off the conveyor belt (the other two arrived two days later!) that's when it all hit me.
I was overwhelmed with God's faithfulness to finish what He starts. This moment was the culmination of a year long process when we first began to sense "the call" to come to this great city. All praise and honor to our great King!
We were greeted by a team of people waiting for us outside the airport. That too was overwhelming. Our team took care of loading all of our bags and drove us straight to our apartment that they had fully furnished for us. What a blessing. All we had to do that first night was to lay our weary heads on our pillows and sleep...and sleep...and sleep some more.
We have done a lot of sleeping in our first 5 full days on the field but our bodies are slowly but surely getting over the jet lag. In spite of catching up on our rest, we have also managed to obtain cell phones and drivers licenses. We have ventured out into the crowded traffic of our city a few times and have stocked up on groceries. Our vehicle, a 6 passenger, standard shift Galloper with 109,000 km is doing just fine.
We have also visited a couple of schools and seem to be leaning towards an all girls school. We took a tour a couple of days ago and our daughters took placement tests yesterday. They really, really like this school and the faculty they have met. Our whole family seems to be at peace with it. Plus, it is only a 15 minute drive from our apartment!
The Burns Bunch seems to be adapting to the new time zone and busy city life. Tomorrow, we will travel to another city to visit and go to church with some friends. We have had a few "orientation" type meetings and dinners with two different team member families. As I mentioned earlier, the team we will be working with has done a super job of making us feel welcome.
It is great to finally be "here".
I must admit, it all felt like a dream. And it was late enough to be one!
After a pretty eventful trip, we arrived at the airport gate in our destination city at the correct time (11 p.m.) but a whole day later than scheduled.
Bad weather in the "windy city" forced us to stay overnight. But after two cancelled flights, we were able to get back on track. All's well that ends well.
A "welcome service" greeted us at the airport gate as we de-planed and drove us through the airport on their speedy cart. Daniel was impressed. The welcome service whisked us to the front of the customs line like we were VIPs and then on to baggage claim.
As I was standing there with my family watching all but two of our trunks and suitcases unloaded off the conveyor belt (the other two arrived two days later!) that's when it all hit me.
I was overwhelmed with God's faithfulness to finish what He starts. This moment was the culmination of a year long process when we first began to sense "the call" to come to this great city. All praise and honor to our great King!
We were greeted by a team of people waiting for us outside the airport. That too was overwhelming. Our team took care of loading all of our bags and drove us straight to our apartment that they had fully furnished for us. What a blessing. All we had to do that first night was to lay our weary heads on our pillows and sleep...and sleep...and sleep some more.
We have done a lot of sleeping in our first 5 full days on the field but our bodies are slowly but surely getting over the jet lag. In spite of catching up on our rest, we have also managed to obtain cell phones and drivers licenses. We have ventured out into the crowded traffic of our city a few times and have stocked up on groceries. Our vehicle, a 6 passenger, standard shift Galloper with 109,000 km is doing just fine.
We have also visited a couple of schools and seem to be leaning towards an all girls school. We took a tour a couple of days ago and our daughters took placement tests yesterday. They really, really like this school and the faculty they have met. Our whole family seems to be at peace with it. Plus, it is only a 15 minute drive from our apartment!
The Burns Bunch seems to be adapting to the new time zone and busy city life. Tomorrow, we will travel to another city to visit and go to church with some friends. We have had a few "orientation" type meetings and dinners with two different team member families. As I mentioned earlier, the team we will be working with has done a super job of making us feel welcome.
It is great to finally be "here".
Thursday, July 27, 2006
Yesterday...40 years ago
Yesterday, God was watching me in the same place he was watching me 40 years ago!
You see, yesterday I was in my parents bedroom grabbing a little "quiet time". For an introverted nomad who has had no place to call home for the last two months, I desperately need to get my "recharge time" somewhere, and my parents bedroom was the only quiet refuge!
I've been reading through Psalms in my devotions lately, and yesterday's reading led me to Psalm 139. I was drawn to verses 13-16.
13 For You formed my inward parts; You wove me in my mother's womb.
14 I will give thanks to You, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made; wonderful are Your works, and my soul knows it very well.
15 My frame was not hidden from You, when I was made in secret, and skillfully wrought in the depths of the earth;
16 Your eyes have seen my unformed substance; and in Your book were all written the days that were ordained for me, when as yet there was not one of them.
That's when it hit me. I was in the exact phsical location I was 40 years ago - except 40 years ago, I was only about 10 weeks old inside my mother's womb! Yes, I will turn 40 in February for those of you now trying to do the math! And yes, my parents still live in the same house as when I was born.
So 40 years ago, in the same room that I was reading, I was being physically formed inside my mother. Even in the secret place, He knew me. And this passage tells me that God could see what I would be doing 40 years later - reading about Him forming me and preparing me to live out the purpose for which He was making me!
My conclusion? The same as King David's in verse 6...
6 Such knowledge is too wonderful for me; it is too high, I cannot attain to it.
You see, yesterday I was in my parents bedroom grabbing a little "quiet time". For an introverted nomad who has had no place to call home for the last two months, I desperately need to get my "recharge time" somewhere, and my parents bedroom was the only quiet refuge!
I've been reading through Psalms in my devotions lately, and yesterday's reading led me to Psalm 139. I was drawn to verses 13-16.
13 For You formed my inward parts; You wove me in my mother's womb.
14 I will give thanks to You, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made; wonderful are Your works, and my soul knows it very well.
15 My frame was not hidden from You, when I was made in secret, and skillfully wrought in the depths of the earth;
16 Your eyes have seen my unformed substance; and in Your book were all written the days that were ordained for me, when as yet there was not one of them.
That's when it hit me. I was in the exact phsical location I was 40 years ago - except 40 years ago, I was only about 10 weeks old inside my mother's womb! Yes, I will turn 40 in February for those of you now trying to do the math! And yes, my parents still live in the same house as when I was born.
So 40 years ago, in the same room that I was reading, I was being physically formed inside my mother. Even in the secret place, He knew me. And this passage tells me that God could see what I would be doing 40 years later - reading about Him forming me and preparing me to live out the purpose for which He was making me!
My conclusion? The same as King David's in verse 6...
6 Such knowledge is too wonderful for me; it is too high, I cannot attain to it.
What message is there for me from this insight? As I prepare to lead my family on a journey to the other side of the planet, here are seven quick nuggets from Psalm 139 that I will take with me as I prepare for the "second half" (or perhaps 2 minute warning!) of my life...
1) He knows me better than anyone on the planet.
2) He has ordained my days and know the exact number of them.
3) There is nowhere I can go without His presence.
4) Our God is an amazing, ALL-KNOWING God. There is no god like Him among the nations.
5) He's still at work forming me - in the secret place.
6) He knows my thoughts from afar - every one of them - and still loves me!
7) He's always watching - and He's always thinking about me. Me? Yes, me. He made me. He knows me. He loves me. Yes, even me.
And do you know what? He knows you too! And He's crazy about you!
Sunday, July 23, 2006
Daniel meets Shamu
Daniel had a great day at Seaworld playing in the water, watching Shamu, and riding with his beautiful cousin McKynna.
Wednesday, July 12, 2006
Tis the night before "D" day
Tis the night before "D"-day
And all through the Quad
Not another soul stirring
Except me and my God
A "D"aughter "D"eparting
Can this ever mean joy?
From the first day of school
To marrying "the" boy?
And all through the Quad
Not another soul stirring
Except me and my God
A "D"aughter "D"eparting
Can this ever mean joy?
From the first day of school
To marrying "the" boy?
(gorilla didn't rhyme)
But daughters times two
Going 3000 miles away
Could make a dad go crazy
And force them to stay
Yet, what's this?
Coming out of the blue?
But a calm assurance
And a peace that is true
Jesus gently reminds me
To Him all authority was given
He is the One sending them out
They've enbraced His Commission
Yes, Soul, how can you not be joyful
When your children obey?
And follow hard after the One
Who has shown them the way?
To this they were called
Because Christ suffered for us
Leaving an example
But daughters times two
Going 3000 miles away
Could make a dad go crazy
And force them to stay
Yet, what's this?
Coming out of the blue?
But a calm assurance
And a peace that is true
Jesus gently reminds me
To Him all authority was given
He is the One sending them out
They've enbraced His Commission
Yes, Soul, how can you not be joyful
When your children obey?
And follow hard after the One
Who has shown them the way?
To this they were called
Because Christ suffered for us
Leaving an example
To take up our own cross
It is well with my soul
Yet, Lord, I have one plea
It is well with my soul
Yet, Lord, I have one plea
Make their life a bridge
To bring glory to Thee
Monday, July 03, 2006
When it rains...
Thanks for your prayers re: our house. We have a contract! We didn't get all we were asking but are very content with the deal. Assuming all goes well with the inspection and loan approval, we will close on July 28 - five days before we depart for the field.
AND to add to that good news...We received word this morning that my employment visa has been issued. This was done rather quickly and we are grateful that process went very smooth.
AND to add to that good news...our local team went "house hunting" for us today. It sounds like they found us a good deal on a 3BR apartment in a good location of town - near the airport. It will certainly help us narrow the field on some schools. For this we would ask your prayers for continued guidance.
AND to add to that good news...We received word this morning that my employment visa has been issued. This was done rather quickly and we are grateful that process went very smooth.
AND to add to that good news...our local team went "house hunting" for us today. It sounds like they found us a good deal on a 3BR apartment in a good location of town - near the airport. It will certainly help us narrow the field on some schools. For this we would ask your prayers for continued guidance.
Friday, June 30, 2006
We have an offer!
Let your character be free from the love of money, being content with what you have; for He Himself has said, “I will never desert you nor will I ever forsake you,” so that we confidently say, “The Lord is my helper, I will not be afraid. What shall man do to me?” Hebrews 13:5-6
I’ve been pondering this passage since last night. Perhaps it’s an odd passage to reflect upon during our days of orientation prior to going to the field. But you need to know that we received an offer on our house yesterday afternoon! “Was it a good offer?” you ask. Any offer is a good offer at this point! It was substantially lower (85% of our asking price) but it was an offer nonetheless!! We are happy and thankful to have an offer to prayerfully consider.
We told our realtor we would like to sleep on it. We will most likely counter the offer this morning. Please pray for the Lord’s wisdom and favor.
But we’ve been asking ourselves, if the potential buyers don’t budge an inch, can we live with it? I think that’s why this Scripture in Hebrews has been speaking to me. It teaches us to look higher and ask a much different question: “If we had nothing else but the Lord Himself, would that be enough?”
Our tendency is to zero in on the warm, fuzzy part of Hebrews 13:5, “I will never desert you or forsake you.” It is certainly a promise that provides comfort and strength as we journey this sod. But the purpose of this promise, it seems to me, is to make the command to “be free from the love of money” and to “be content” so much easier and obvious to obey. It’s as if the Lord is saying to us, “If you have me, what else do you really need?” This is consistent with our Lord’s words, “But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness; and all these things shall be added to you.” Matthew 6:33
Regardless of the outcome, we would ask that you pray that our character will be free from the love of money and that we will be content and generous with whatever He gives us. We don’t want “the cares of the world” and the “deceitfulness of wealth” to choke out our fruitfulness. Matthew 13:22
Thank you for lifting us up! Your prayers are not in vain! Since our last writing two weeks ago, orientation has not let up in its intensity. We’ve experienced moments of brokenness – coming to the end of ourselves. But it has been invaluable. The goal is to learn to live there – in a state of brokenness and humility, that is.
On the Potter's wheel...
I’ve been pondering this passage since last night. Perhaps it’s an odd passage to reflect upon during our days of orientation prior to going to the field. But you need to know that we received an offer on our house yesterday afternoon! “Was it a good offer?” you ask. Any offer is a good offer at this point! It was substantially lower (85% of our asking price) but it was an offer nonetheless!! We are happy and thankful to have an offer to prayerfully consider.
We told our realtor we would like to sleep on it. We will most likely counter the offer this morning. Please pray for the Lord’s wisdom and favor.
But we’ve been asking ourselves, if the potential buyers don’t budge an inch, can we live with it? I think that’s why this Scripture in Hebrews has been speaking to me. It teaches us to look higher and ask a much different question: “If we had nothing else but the Lord Himself, would that be enough?”
Our tendency is to zero in on the warm, fuzzy part of Hebrews 13:5, “I will never desert you or forsake you.” It is certainly a promise that provides comfort and strength as we journey this sod. But the purpose of this promise, it seems to me, is to make the command to “be free from the love of money” and to “be content” so much easier and obvious to obey. It’s as if the Lord is saying to us, “If you have me, what else do you really need?” This is consistent with our Lord’s words, “But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness; and all these things shall be added to you.” Matthew 6:33
Regardless of the outcome, we would ask that you pray that our character will be free from the love of money and that we will be content and generous with whatever He gives us. We don’t want “the cares of the world” and the “deceitfulness of wealth” to choke out our fruitfulness. Matthew 13:22
Thank you for lifting us up! Your prayers are not in vain! Since our last writing two weeks ago, orientation has not let up in its intensity. We’ve experienced moments of brokenness – coming to the end of ourselves. But it has been invaluable. The goal is to learn to live there – in a state of brokenness and humility, that is.
On the Potter's wheel...
Monday, June 19, 2006
Preparation "H"
"Look, I tell you, lift up your eyes, and see that the fields are white for harvest." John 4:35
Preparation "H" - the Harvest, that is!
We appreciate your prayers for our family as we try to get ready to go to the harvest field. We know that many have prayed for laborers to go to this region of the world and we have even pleaded, "Lord, here we are send us", but it's the preparation part that is not so easy. Nevertheless, it is a privilege to be here and to be learning the things we are learning.
The first two weeks of FPO (Field Personnel Orientation) have been intense but oh, so good. Hours upon hours of class time during the day, numerous reading and homework assignments at night, team responsibilities, and not to mention just keeping our family focused have all kept the time moving right along!
Overall, on a scale from 1-10, our time here has been an "8" even with some sickness being spread around the camp. Our family has not been immune but those in our clan who have picked up the community stomach bug all seem to be on the mend.
We also survived our first round of shots! Round 2 of 3 is this Friday.
The weather has been exceptionally cool as we have experienced a couple of thundershowers rolling through. All the kids seem to really be enjoying their time here.
On the equipping side, probably the most challenging talk that we've heard so far came from the president of our organization. We received 10 hours of instruction from him over a two day period on the subject of spiritual warfare. It was by far the best I've heard on this subject. We were reminded that Satan's ultimate purpose is to rob God of the glory that is due His Name from the nations. He is committed to keeping his strongholds in place as long as possible.
It was a sober reminder that we are moving into the enemy's camp but we should not fear. The victory has already been secured through Christ Jesus. Adversity will come – of that we can be sure. But we can mentally, spiritually, and emotionally prepare ourselves for this so that when the hardships and attacks come, we will stand firm in our faith. The point was driven home that we need to think on Truth. Satan's biggest scheme is to attack us in the area of our thoughts. We must be on guard and not let him use "his craftiness to lead our minds astray from the simplicity and purity of devotion to Christ." 2 Cor. 11:3
I mentioned team responsibilities above. Everyone here is required to sign up on a team (Cross-cultural worship team, recreation team, facilities team, library team, computer (IT) team, etc.) I sensed the Lord drawing me to be on the Prayer Team. I have so much to learn about intercessory prayer, yet, I was selected the team leader. Although this responsibility feels weighty and is time consuming, God has given me a wonderful team of 10 men and women who are really committed to mobilizing the FPO community to pray for each other and for the people groups we are going to.
Kernels (Prayer Requests)
Healing and wholeness for our bodies and minds
Discipline and perseverance
Grace to trust God and wait on Him to provide a buyer for our house (it was shown 3 times last week but no offers)
Location of our villa where we are moving – we would love for it to be relatively close to the school
School selection
For the Lord to pour out His Spirit on this campus so that the 100 "sent out ones" (total units including families and journeymen) will go out in His power
Preparation "H" - the Harvest, that is!
We appreciate your prayers for our family as we try to get ready to go to the harvest field. We know that many have prayed for laborers to go to this region of the world and we have even pleaded, "Lord, here we are send us", but it's the preparation part that is not so easy. Nevertheless, it is a privilege to be here and to be learning the things we are learning.
The first two weeks of FPO (Field Personnel Orientation) have been intense but oh, so good. Hours upon hours of class time during the day, numerous reading and homework assignments at night, team responsibilities, and not to mention just keeping our family focused have all kept the time moving right along!
Overall, on a scale from 1-10, our time here has been an "8" even with some sickness being spread around the camp. Our family has not been immune but those in our clan who have picked up the community stomach bug all seem to be on the mend.
We also survived our first round of shots! Round 2 of 3 is this Friday.
The weather has been exceptionally cool as we have experienced a couple of thundershowers rolling through. All the kids seem to really be enjoying their time here.
On the equipping side, probably the most challenging talk that we've heard so far came from the president of our organization. We received 10 hours of instruction from him over a two day period on the subject of spiritual warfare. It was by far the best I've heard on this subject. We were reminded that Satan's ultimate purpose is to rob God of the glory that is due His Name from the nations. He is committed to keeping his strongholds in place as long as possible.
It was a sober reminder that we are moving into the enemy's camp but we should not fear. The victory has already been secured through Christ Jesus. Adversity will come – of that we can be sure. But we can mentally, spiritually, and emotionally prepare ourselves for this so that when the hardships and attacks come, we will stand firm in our faith. The point was driven home that we need to think on Truth. Satan's biggest scheme is to attack us in the area of our thoughts. We must be on guard and not let him use "his craftiness to lead our minds astray from the simplicity and purity of devotion to Christ." 2 Cor. 11:3
I mentioned team responsibilities above. Everyone here is required to sign up on a team (Cross-cultural worship team, recreation team, facilities team, library team, computer (IT) team, etc.) I sensed the Lord drawing me to be on the Prayer Team. I have so much to learn about intercessory prayer, yet, I was selected the team leader. Although this responsibility feels weighty and is time consuming, God has given me a wonderful team of 10 men and women who are really committed to mobilizing the FPO community to pray for each other and for the people groups we are going to.
Kernels (Prayer Requests)
Healing and wholeness for our bodies and minds
Discipline and perseverance
Grace to trust God and wait on Him to provide a buyer for our house (it was shown 3 times last week but no offers)
Location of our villa where we are moving – we would love for it to be relatively close to the school
School selection
For the Lord to pour out His Spirit on this campus so that the 100 "sent out ones" (total units including families and journeymen) will go out in His power
Sunday, June 11, 2006
Boot Camp?
Well...here goes our first launch out into blog land...
I can remember sitting at candidate conference and hearing a quote from a former marine likening the field personnel orientation to spiritual boot camp. He went on to share how the purpose of boot camp is to strip away all pride to prepare you to be a team player.
I can honestly say that has been true in our lives as well. We are now finishing up week 2 but it only took a few days to realize this orientation and training was going to be anything but a walk in the park.
One of our requests coming into the orientation is that each member of the family would experience God in a unique and special way. We would appreciate your continued prayers toward that end.
The house is still for sale but there has been some increased activity in the last week. Keep praying that God will be glorified in the sell of the house and land we called "home".
I can remember sitting at candidate conference and hearing a quote from a former marine likening the field personnel orientation to spiritual boot camp. He went on to share how the purpose of boot camp is to strip away all pride to prepare you to be a team player.
I can honestly say that has been true in our lives as well. We are now finishing up week 2 but it only took a few days to realize this orientation and training was going to be anything but a walk in the park.
One of our requests coming into the orientation is that each member of the family would experience God in a unique and special way. We would appreciate your continued prayers toward that end.
The house is still for sale but there has been some increased activity in the last week. Keep praying that God will be glorified in the sell of the house and land we called "home".
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