Summer 2021
SERVE
Dear Sisters and Brothers in Christ,
As the world struggles to emerge from the tragedies of this past year, we who know Jesus have reason to hope in God’s promises: “We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure.” (Heb. 6:19) How can we be hopeful in times like these?
This morning at the library I had the privilege of meeting Steven. He sat hunched over on the floor in the hall, groaning in pain. Looking up at me, he said, “Man, I really wish the doctor had been able to help me this morning.” I asked his name and what was troubling him. Homelessness, he said, and terrible stomach pain. “Can I pray with you, Steven?” I asked. His face lit up, “Please do, I love Jesus.” My seven year old, Isabel, joined us in prayer. He was especially grateful for her simple intercession. “This world,” he said, shaking his head, “This mess is going to end, but I’m holding Jesus’ hand.” Me too, Steven. He is my only hope.
Ultimately our missionaries all over the world are doing the same thing, holding Jesus’ hand and inviting others to do the same. Many of them have had a very challenging year, and have been surrounded by great suffering, and still we hope. Why? Romans 5:3-5 says: “We also exult in our tribulations, knowing that tribulation brings about perseverance; and perseverance, proven character; and proven character, hope; and this hope does not disappoint us, because the love of God has been poured out within our hearts through the Holy Spirit.”
Thank you to all who help us to cling to Jesus and to bring His hope and love to the ends of the earth, and to the library around the corner.
May God Abundantly Bless You,
Sarah Summers Granger
Director
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Featured Story
UNEXPECTED JOY
by Karen Del Castillo | Cajaruro, Peru
One night I received a phone call from Maritza humbly asking us for help to buy food for her children. When we went to deliver food the next day, we were overwhelmed by the inadequacy of the home she had made for herself and her children. We knew that the Holy Spirit was prompting us not to just help with food or with a concrete floor. I heard the Holy Spirit say, “this beloved family of Jesus needs a home.”
That very minute I said YES to the call of the Holy Spirit. Before I knew it, I was telling Maritza that we would build a home. I wasn’t in control of my own words, nor did I know where we would come up with the funds to do such a thing.
Had I been left to my own reasoning, I would have said that it was impossible. I would have thought the whole idea was a bit crazy, considering that she was only asking for food, not a house. But I kept hearing those same words:
“this beloved family of Jesus needs a home”…
Stories
Hoping Against Hope
So many times my heart has broken, over and over, hearing the stories of these women, hearing about the terrible choices they have made out of desperately trying to survive. The wounds of their own sins, but also the countless sins of others, makes finding a solution more and more complex.
What Are Our Gifts?
Given the circumstances, it would be easy for us to conclude the task here is just too big, or even impossible. We should “shake the dust from our sandals” and move on. But then I think about Nicodemus and how he couldn’t understand what it meant to be born again in the Spirit. And so, Jesus talked to him about the wind.
The Kingdom of Heaven Is Theirs
I worried often about Maggie, if she was getting sicker, if she had food, and if she was healthy enough to take care of herself and Tika. As time went on, my worry turned to fear. It was my worst fear that I would find out she died; that one of the diseases she battled finally won. I was afraid of her leaving behind her young daughter.
Tender Care for Missionary Kids
Given the circumstances, it would be easy for us to conclude the task here is just too big, or even impossible. We should “shake the dust from our sandals” and move on. But then I think about Nicodemus and how he couldn’t understand what it meant to be born again in the Spirit. And so, Jesus talked to him about the wind.
Innovations for Intake
Monumental changes are underway for training future FMC missionaries. Many of these improvements were inspired by missionaries in the field and Member Care staff who desire longevity and sustainability. Intake will look markedly different, with the goal of offering a healthy model for how missionaries can thrive in their foreign mission post.
It’s Not About the Food
I spotted an elderly couple begging for money from the patrons of a Chinese restaurant. The couple looked hungry and sickly, and there was no way that a few “soles” given to them out of pity would buy them a decent meal.
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