Mittwoch, März 21, 2007

March Prayer Letter

Dear Friends,
Here is a brief update. Enjoy.

SPARK IN RHEINBACH – a supernatural morning
Sunday, March 11 was a mild sunny day in Germany. After weeks of cold and rain it was welcome weather. As we drove to Rheinbach to present SPARK in the morning service of the Ev. Free Church, I was wondering what God might do that day. Andreas, the pastor, was also
anxious to see what would happen as his church was challenged to consider planting a daughter church for the very first time. God did not disappoint us. The people were extremely attentive and the atmosphere after the service was electric as several people came up to me to say how God had spoken to them. Although Andreas had never talked publicly about planting a church in Euskirchen (10 miles from Rheinbach), at least 3 people told me independently of their burden for that city. Euskirchen has one of the highest crime rates in Germany. One of them was even in the process of buying a house there in order to have a ministry to troubled youth! What a thrill it was to share later with Andreas about what his people had told me. Please pray about the critical next steps that Andreas will need to take to move ahead. Pray that God would raise up a courageous and unified church planting team. Pray for Andreas as he leads them and for me as I coach them.

FIELD LEADERSHIP – a new challenge
After 2 years of being asked to consider becoming the Greater Europe Mission German field leader and not finding peace about it, God began to work in my heart in a new way and I agreed to take on this responsibility for 30+ missionaries, including children, living and ministering in Germany. They are an extremely talented and motivated group. Someone once said that leading missionaries is like trying to herd cats. It will definitely be a challenge. Missionaries tend to be very independent and strong personalities. Most of them are leaders themselves. Please pray for me as I learn the ropes and adjust to this new role. Pray that I will be wise and loving as I seek to encourage and challenge each one in their lives and ministry. Leslie Kuhn, who works in Berlin, will be assisting me with administration. Pray that someone will also join to help in a more pastoral/member care way. Pray that I will find the right balance between field leadership and facilitating and coaching German church plants. It is an exciting time to be in Germany and to be working with such an awesome group of people as we seek to be a part of a 2nd reformation here. If you are interested in knowing more about GEM in Germany click here: GEM Germany.

In HIS Service,
Jason (and Sue)