Showing posts with label World Missions Summit. Show all posts
Showing posts with label World Missions Summit. Show all posts
Thursday, January 8, 2009
Welcome back World Summit Team !
Thank you so much for sharing your thoughts and experiences with all of us. I know God showed up in a huge way and I trust that you'll continue to allow Him to lead you to where He wants you to go and what He wants you to do.
Saturday, January 3, 2009
Meals With A Missionary
Meal With A Missionary is a part of TWMS2 where we get to sit down with missionaries in the field, and have a meal with them and talk to them, ask them questions, and see what God is doing through them in the world.
The first video is of Bob and Jorel, who are missionaries in El Salvador.
The second video is of AJ and Jenny, who are working in Medical Evangelism.
The first video is of Bob and Jorel, who are missionaries in El Salvador.
The second video is of AJ and Jenny, who are working in Medical Evangelism.
The End?
By David Kau
It was sad today was the last day of the conference. God has enlightened me this week. I came to the conference believing my missions field was inner city America. However leaving the conference I am now not as sure.
Today started with a message from Scott Martin. His message was to not wait to do the great commission, just go. After the message he had ask all of us to sign mission pledges card. I did not sign the card, but I will go on a short term mission trip this summer. I could not sign the card because I am honest and I cannot promise I will go on a year long mission trip this year.
For lunch, we sat with a married couple who worked in the medical mission field. I totally did not get anything out of this meeting. However it was still interesting listening to their stories. I know donna, dustin, and kelley got a lot of this lunch meeting.
After lunch, I went to the Eurasia experience. Eurasia is a scary place, because of religious warfare in all of Eurasia. Islam, Hindu, and other religion battle it put in these lands and Christianity is totally unwanted. All of the countries in Eurasia are America haters like Afghanistan and Pakistan. I will pray for the missionaries working in this part of the world.
The next session I went to was the chi alpha. I will be completely honest, I only went to their presentation because I got a free shirt out of it. Chi alpha mission field is the college campus.
At dinner, we met a missionary from convoy of hope. I was really interested in what she had to say. I think it would be awesome if I helped people in need after a natural disaster like a earthquake. I would like to spread the gospel while giving the people in need food and water.
The final service had two very important speaker. The first was John Bueno who is a big time missionary from El Salvador. He has created the world largest christian school in the world. His message is never give up. His church was failing after nine years and he tried everything to grow his church, but nothing worked. He used acts chapter 1-9 to grow his church.
The last speaker was pastor Jules who is a missionary in Iraq. He had many horror stories about doing his mission work Iraq during Saddam reign if terror.
After the three day conference, my heart has changed. I still want to work with inner city youth, but I will apply to convoy of hope for a job. I want to help people in their time of need. I would like to encourage everyone to go in a mission. Let the holy spirit be your guild.
God bless you!
David
It was sad today was the last day of the conference. God has enlightened me this week. I came to the conference believing my missions field was inner city America. However leaving the conference I am now not as sure.
Today started with a message from Scott Martin. His message was to not wait to do the great commission, just go. After the message he had ask all of us to sign mission pledges card. I did not sign the card, but I will go on a short term mission trip this summer. I could not sign the card because I am honest and I cannot promise I will go on a year long mission trip this year.
For lunch, we sat with a married couple who worked in the medical mission field. I totally did not get anything out of this meeting. However it was still interesting listening to their stories. I know donna, dustin, and kelley got a lot of this lunch meeting.
After lunch, I went to the Eurasia experience. Eurasia is a scary place, because of religious warfare in all of Eurasia. Islam, Hindu, and other religion battle it put in these lands and Christianity is totally unwanted. All of the countries in Eurasia are America haters like Afghanistan and Pakistan. I will pray for the missionaries working in this part of the world.
The next session I went to was the chi alpha. I will be completely honest, I only went to their presentation because I got a free shirt out of it. Chi alpha mission field is the college campus.
At dinner, we met a missionary from convoy of hope. I was really interested in what she had to say. I think it would be awesome if I helped people in need after a natural disaster like a earthquake. I would like to spread the gospel while giving the people in need food and water.
The final service had two very important speaker. The first was John Bueno who is a big time missionary from El Salvador. He has created the world largest christian school in the world. His message is never give up. His church was failing after nine years and he tried everything to grow his church, but nothing worked. He used acts chapter 1-9 to grow his church.
The last speaker was pastor Jules who is a missionary in Iraq. He had many horror stories about doing his mission work Iraq during Saddam reign if terror.
After the three day conference, my heart has changed. I still want to work with inner city youth, but I will apply to convoy of hope for a job. I want to help people in their time of need. I would like to encourage everyone to go in a mission. Let the holy spirit be your guild.
God bless you!
David
Thursday, January 1, 2009
TWMS2 - Day 3
Wow, what an awesome last day of TWMS2 here in Cincinnati. God has definitely been speaking to me, and all of us. This is just a good reminder of all the different places that need God. So many are lost. So many are in need. So many do not know Jesus. It can be overwhelming to see so many ministries in need, not just for finances, but also for people to work the harvest fields.
One thing that really hit my spirit was mentioned that people do not need more entertainment. They have enough of that, especially people in America. What people really need is God's words and a touch from the Holy Spirit. People need relationships, and the most important relationship is that with Christ Jesus.
One of the guys that I was talking to is a Chi Alpha intern at one of the biggest campuses in Texas, and he mentioned that he gets asked what they do for their ministries. He answered that people expect to have big events, but much of their ministry is their small groups (cell groups). The key is to build relationships. That is what disciplining is. God was speaking to me on putting more emphasis on relational discipleship more.
God has called all to go to all the world and share His good news with those without. I believe this conference has really opened up my heart for the young people. I believe that is why I am doing ministry in Fusion Young Adults, because of His call. I also believe that God has put in my heart for more campus ministries, because he has shown me what young people can do, what this generation can do, before they start sitting in the "corporate, director, political" chair, and how they can be reached in a simple college chair.
God is still continuing to speak to me about missions. It is awesome that Calvary is a Missions church, because that truly is where the heart of God is. This conference is just the beginning. So much more us to come. Great things are to come. God is going to do miracles through His people, through this generation.
Now it is time for us to come back home, and trust me, we definitely know the importance of what missions is and how it is the heart of the Father to reach others. With us will come the passion for those who need Jesus. Although this missions conference has ended it is just the beginning for what God has in store for reaching the lost and missions.
-Alan-
One thing that really hit my spirit was mentioned that people do not need more entertainment. They have enough of that, especially people in America. What people really need is God's words and a touch from the Holy Spirit. People need relationships, and the most important relationship is that with Christ Jesus.
One of the guys that I was talking to is a Chi Alpha intern at one of the biggest campuses in Texas, and he mentioned that he gets asked what they do for their ministries. He answered that people expect to have big events, but much of their ministry is their small groups (cell groups). The key is to build relationships. That is what disciplining is. God was speaking to me on putting more emphasis on relational discipleship more.
God has called all to go to all the world and share His good news with those without. I believe this conference has really opened up my heart for the young people. I believe that is why I am doing ministry in Fusion Young Adults, because of His call. I also believe that God has put in my heart for more campus ministries, because he has shown me what young people can do, what this generation can do, before they start sitting in the "corporate, director, political" chair, and how they can be reached in a simple college chair.
God is still continuing to speak to me about missions. It is awesome that Calvary is a Missions church, because that truly is where the heart of God is. This conference is just the beginning. So much more us to come. Great things are to come. God is going to do miracles through His people, through this generation.
Now it is time for us to come back home, and trust me, we definitely know the importance of what missions is and how it is the heart of the Father to reach others. With us will come the passion for those who need Jesus. Although this missions conference has ended it is just the beginning for what God has in store for reaching the lost and missions.
-Alan-
Has Someone Failed God?
Today was the final day of the conference. As you can imagine, it was one to remember!
The day started with a challenge from the Conference Host Scott Martin. He challenged us to "give one year, and pray about a lifetime." Praise the Lord that 800 people responded!!! At the beginning of the conference it was prophesied that "it still remains to be seen if this generation will accomplish the job." THE ANSWER IS A RESOUNDING YES!!!
I want to show you a letter from Missionary David Plymire who labored in Tibet. This was written after his wife and two kids had passed away in the mountains of Tibet.
On January 29, I followed my two loved ones to this lonely spot on the Tibetan mountains. My dear wife and little boy were placed in one grave. Why these dear ones were called away I do not know. I do not question. They were so earnest in trying to evangelize this vast region. It is so very hard in the natural, now entirely alone. For several years we prayed for help. We begged someone to help my wife in the work and to be a companion while I was out among the Tibetans. But no one came. Has someone failed God?
That hit me. Who am I failing when I don't come? A missionary? A person who needs me? Have I failed God by not coming?! Have I failed God by not going?!
WOW!!!
Then tonight we had the pleasure of hearing from the only Pastor of an AG church in IRAQ!!! This man has been underground while Saddam was in power. But now he has finally established an "above ground" church of 700! Most of who are college aged.
Just amazing stories from an amazing man!
He challenged us to give up our ambition, money, and dreams for those of God! It takes Commitment, Crucifixion, Consecration!
One thing that I've been wrestling with daily is this: if the Bible is right and something must die before bringing forth life, like JESUS or a seed...then why is it that so many are unwilling to die? If dying meant life to the nations we died for...then why are so many unwilling to die?
WHY AM I NOT WILLING TO DIE....
TO DIE DAILY TO MY SINS AND VICES
TO DIE TO MY PRIDE
TO DIE TO MY MINISTRY
TO DIE TO MY DREAMS AND MY AMBITIONS....
I tell you what...
I should die..because it will bring LIFE
LIFE TO HOLINESS AND RIGHTEOUSNESS
LIFE TO GOD'S GLORY
LIFE TO GOD'S WORK
LIFE TO GOD'S DREAMS AND AMBITIONS!!!
THEREFORE...I CHOOSE TO DIE!!!
Thanks for reading =) See you soon!
Danford
The day started with a challenge from the Conference Host Scott Martin. He challenged us to "give one year, and pray about a lifetime." Praise the Lord that 800 people responded!!! At the beginning of the conference it was prophesied that "it still remains to be seen if this generation will accomplish the job." THE ANSWER IS A RESOUNDING YES!!!
I want to show you a letter from Missionary David Plymire who labored in Tibet. This was written after his wife and two kids had passed away in the mountains of Tibet.
On January 29, I followed my two loved ones to this lonely spot on the Tibetan mountains. My dear wife and little boy were placed in one grave. Why these dear ones were called away I do not know. I do not question. They were so earnest in trying to evangelize this vast region. It is so very hard in the natural, now entirely alone. For several years we prayed for help. We begged someone to help my wife in the work and to be a companion while I was out among the Tibetans. But no one came. Has someone failed God?
That hit me. Who am I failing when I don't come? A missionary? A person who needs me? Have I failed God by not coming?! Have I failed God by not going?!
WOW!!!
Then tonight we had the pleasure of hearing from the only Pastor of an AG church in IRAQ!!! This man has been underground while Saddam was in power. But now he has finally established an "above ground" church of 700! Most of who are college aged.
Just amazing stories from an amazing man!
He challenged us to give up our ambition, money, and dreams for those of God! It takes Commitment, Crucifixion, Consecration!
One thing that I've been wrestling with daily is this: if the Bible is right and something must die before bringing forth life, like JESUS or a seed...then why is it that so many are unwilling to die? If dying meant life to the nations we died for...then why are so many unwilling to die?
WHY AM I NOT WILLING TO DIE....
TO DIE DAILY TO MY SINS AND VICES
TO DIE TO MY PRIDE
TO DIE TO MY MINISTRY
TO DIE TO MY DREAMS AND MY AMBITIONS....
I tell you what...
I should die..because it will bring LIFE
LIFE TO HOLINESS AND RIGHTEOUSNESS
LIFE TO GOD'S GLORY
LIFE TO GOD'S WORK
LIFE TO GOD'S DREAMS AND AMBITIONS!!!
THEREFORE...I CHOOSE TO DIE!!!
Thanks for reading =) See you soon!
Danford
Into Glorious Light I'm Running
Although the conference is sadly ending, I thank God that in the end of the conference, a beginning of another one of His works will start in continuation as a result of the conference. God has officially sealed everything He spoke into my heart and transferred what His Spirit has been revealing to me from my head to my spirit. All I feel is glorious freedom. The title of my blog is what it is because that was the song we all danced to at the close of the conference in celebration of what God has done, and it's still running in my spirit.
Tonight's conference speaker was so good not because He gave cool points or because he was used of God to perform signs and wonders, but that his testimony was purely God. He is the pastor of New Life Church in Baghdad, Iraq! President Bush had to talk to the Cabin so that he could make it to our conference tonight. This man's life was clearly not his own, and it clearly belonged to God. He said that God told him not to preach, but to share his stories in Iraq, and his stories caused me to hunger and yearn for the living God. God showed us through his testimonies that God is doing an employment search for good soldiers that will give up their lives and not take it back as their own. He shared the COST-committments, of being a good soldier in this army. God said that there were no qualifications to join this army, but there are committments. These were: 1) Consecration 2) Committment, and 3) Crucifixion.
Again the Lord moved in a powerful way to speak into hearts how to be a servant of Jesus Christ. He explained that we are not the writers, producers or movie stars in the movie we're living in life. He is the writer, He is the producer, and He is the movie star!!! He said that if we truly desire that God be glorified, it is easy to believe in God's power to draw all men unto Him in amazing ways. If God already wants His name lifted high, and the vessel He is using wants the same thing, there is no hesitation on God's part to bring this to pass. The hesitation of God doing this is when we seek the glory, because God will not give His glory to anyone else's name. Amen.
There was another powerful altar time where I sought God's face and sealed even more His Word sown in me at this conference. A word of knowledge was given that we must know the authority of God if we want this generation to cross the Jordan, because without the authority of God, God's job won't be done.
All I can say is, I am committed to die. I am committed to not take my life back. I am committed to serve the commanding officer Jesus Christ in this army to accomplish a great mission in these last days. Tonight's speaker said that he believes this is the generation that will bring the great commission to a close; and if this is true, I must take good orders from my Heavenly Father and follow Him wholeheartedly and sacrificially (although there is no sacrifice compared to His sacrifice).
The conference ended greatly and I know God will contiue to do great things. While I was in the midst of worshipping God with many others at the altar and listening to two other leaders pray and encourage us and share God's words to us, God put into my heart a way that I need to step out in faith, God spoke to my heart to step out in faith about a certain thing, and when I stepped out in faith, He amazingly confirmed everything He is doing in my life and I am not afraid. I cannot wait to see the fruit of this conference in the many that were called, and am excited to see how God will glorify His name through our lives. Although the works of evil will greatly increase in these last days, I know then the works of God will equally increase, and more. I have faith.
Thank you Calvary for planting seeds of a missions heart in me while I was with you. As I return to my current missions field, I will seek God in leading me to light more torches! Amen.
Erin
Tonight's conference speaker was so good not because He gave cool points or because he was used of God to perform signs and wonders, but that his testimony was purely God. He is the pastor of New Life Church in Baghdad, Iraq! President Bush had to talk to the Cabin so that he could make it to our conference tonight. This man's life was clearly not his own, and it clearly belonged to God. He said that God told him not to preach, but to share his stories in Iraq, and his stories caused me to hunger and yearn for the living God. God showed us through his testimonies that God is doing an employment search for good soldiers that will give up their lives and not take it back as their own. He shared the COST-committments, of being a good soldier in this army. God said that there were no qualifications to join this army, but there are committments. These were: 1) Consecration 2) Committment, and 3) Crucifixion.
Again the Lord moved in a powerful way to speak into hearts how to be a servant of Jesus Christ. He explained that we are not the writers, producers or movie stars in the movie we're living in life. He is the writer, He is the producer, and He is the movie star!!! He said that if we truly desire that God be glorified, it is easy to believe in God's power to draw all men unto Him in amazing ways. If God already wants His name lifted high, and the vessel He is using wants the same thing, there is no hesitation on God's part to bring this to pass. The hesitation of God doing this is when we seek the glory, because God will not give His glory to anyone else's name. Amen.
There was another powerful altar time where I sought God's face and sealed even more His Word sown in me at this conference. A word of knowledge was given that we must know the authority of God if we want this generation to cross the Jordan, because without the authority of God, God's job won't be done.
All I can say is, I am committed to die. I am committed to not take my life back. I am committed to serve the commanding officer Jesus Christ in this army to accomplish a great mission in these last days. Tonight's speaker said that he believes this is the generation that will bring the great commission to a close; and if this is true, I must take good orders from my Heavenly Father and follow Him wholeheartedly and sacrificially (although there is no sacrifice compared to His sacrifice).
The conference ended greatly and I know God will contiue to do great things. While I was in the midst of worshipping God with many others at the altar and listening to two other leaders pray and encourage us and share God's words to us, God put into my heart a way that I need to step out in faith, God spoke to my heart to step out in faith about a certain thing, and when I stepped out in faith, He amazingly confirmed everything He is doing in my life and I am not afraid. I cannot wait to see the fruit of this conference in the many that were called, and am excited to see how God will glorify His name through our lives. Although the works of evil will greatly increase in these last days, I know then the works of God will equally increase, and more. I have faith.
Thank you Calvary for planting seeds of a missions heart in me while I was with you. As I return to my current missions field, I will seek God in leading me to light more torches! Amen.
Erin
Unfortunately, all good things must come to an end
TWMS2 defintiely ended with a bang! Today was by far the most impacting on my life. One of the "Windows to the world" rooms that we visited was Northern Asia. They imitated people of different religions that are common in that area and spoke on the behalf of them in terms of how they think and practice their religions. Before this, I was ignorant of the degree at which these people practice their religions. They literally give up their lives to the gods that they worship and challenged the Christians. A man portarying a buddhist monk said something that really spoke to my heart.
"You Christians have it easy. You are not afraid of sin! You ask your god for forgiveness and you say he forgives, yet you continue to sin again and again. Us? We are afraid to sin because we know that the measure of sin that we do is the measure of sin that will be released back to us. That's what keeps us from sinning!"
Another man representing the Islamic people said this:
"I hear you Christians talk about your God but you only talk. I don't see the walk. We constantly proclaim that Allah is the only god. We pray 5 times a day. On the month of Ramadan, we pray and fast for the entire month! No water or food passes our lips. How many times do you pray and fast to your god? Are you bold enough to live the lifestyle so that you can reach me?"
These people who practice their religions don't just practice it for fun. They truly believe that their god is the real god and they work so hard to make sure they can find enlightenment or a place in heaven, whatever it is that they believe in. Not only that, but be cause we are Christians, our lives are looked at closely by those around us. We need to make sure we know the Word and our God. But in order to do that, we must first have a relationship with our living God!!
The evening service began a little rocky for me. During the service, I could hear the enemy pouring lies into my head. And the sad thing was that I was believing them. I was being told that I was no good, that I could never be a great missionary for God.. that I could never reach the lost the way God wants me to because I'm so imperfect and am a sinner. The enemy began to pour past sins that I had committed into my mind, which overwhelmed me and tore me apart. I felt so ashamed and I felt so unworthy to be at the conference. What can someone like me do for the Lord? But as the saints passed around the bread and wine for communion, I could feel the blood of Jesus cover me like I've never in my life felt before. Then God spoke and said, "I will remember your sins no more. And as far as the east is from the west, I will remember your transgressions no more." GOD IS SO GOOD. It's in the devil's nature to do what he did to me. The awesome thing about it is that the devil is so predictable. He uses the same tactics over and over again, and unfortunately they work sometimes. But God is awesome and always knows how to comfort.
I could keep going but I think I'll save it for when we return back to Calvary. Thanks for keeping us in your prayers! We love you guys and can't wait to get back home to the sun!
Kelley
"You Christians have it easy. You are not afraid of sin! You ask your god for forgiveness and you say he forgives, yet you continue to sin again and again. Us? We are afraid to sin because we know that the measure of sin that we do is the measure of sin that will be released back to us. That's what keeps us from sinning!"
Another man representing the Islamic people said this:
"I hear you Christians talk about your God but you only talk. I don't see the walk. We constantly proclaim that Allah is the only god. We pray 5 times a day. On the month of Ramadan, we pray and fast for the entire month! No water or food passes our lips. How many times do you pray and fast to your god? Are you bold enough to live the lifestyle so that you can reach me?"
These people who practice their religions don't just practice it for fun. They truly believe that their god is the real god and they work so hard to make sure they can find enlightenment or a place in heaven, whatever it is that they believe in. Not only that, but be cause we are Christians, our lives are looked at closely by those around us. We need to make sure we know the Word and our God. But in order to do that, we must first have a relationship with our living God!!
The evening service began a little rocky for me. During the service, I could hear the enemy pouring lies into my head. And the sad thing was that I was believing them. I was being told that I was no good, that I could never be a great missionary for God.. that I could never reach the lost the way God wants me to because I'm so imperfect and am a sinner. The enemy began to pour past sins that I had committed into my mind, which overwhelmed me and tore me apart. I felt so ashamed and I felt so unworthy to be at the conference. What can someone like me do for the Lord? But as the saints passed around the bread and wine for communion, I could feel the blood of Jesus cover me like I've never in my life felt before. Then God spoke and said, "I will remember your sins no more. And as far as the east is from the west, I will remember your transgressions no more." GOD IS SO GOOD. It's in the devil's nature to do what he did to me. The awesome thing about it is that the devil is so predictable. He uses the same tactics over and over again, and unfortunately they work sometimes. But God is awesome and always knows how to comfort.
I could keep going but I think I'll save it for when we return back to Calvary. Thanks for keeping us in your prayers! We love you guys and can't wait to get back home to the sun!
Kelley
LOVE is the universal language of missions
Words simply cannot express how God moved in my heart last night. I didn't post a blog last night because I was just too consumed in prayer and worship to Him. I almost couldn't believe it! The best part about my encounter with God last night was that it was not mental or emotional, but spiritual. It was from God's Spirit to mine, and it was very real. Learning to not find confirmation of God's presence and love by emotional experiences in our relationship with God has been difficult for me (but I know we all struggle with it), and tonight was the point in my process where I realized how real God can be spirit to spirit, and that God will surely hear those who cry out to Him with all of their hearts. I learned the meaning of sacrificing my flesh at the altar.
I totally didn't expect what I received from God last night. Throughout the day before the night message and altar call at the end, I just had a lot of fun meeting tons of new people from other churches. I even video recorded a testimony of an Indian girl that God touched and set free from Hinduism. I don't have her video uploaded yet, but I promise to post it so that you can hear her amazing testimony! In each session, I learned of the amazing things God is and is going to do in different missions regions of the world. The more I saw how hearts were touched for Jesus and being set free from a separation, a deeper longing and hunger stirred in my spirit to catch His heart that is on fire for us.
Meals with the missionaries were also FANTASTIC. It is so great to hear the hearts of those who are on the missions field (both domestically and abroad) and especially the fruit of their labor, the testimonies. One answer to a question of mine that particularly struck me was from a Chi Alpha campus leader at Stanford University. I asked him the question, "So what is it like witnessing to Stanford University students?"Because in my mind, I thought it might be a tougher campus missons field than others. However, the campus leader's answer was this: "It's a lot more normal than you'd think. They get saved the same way everyone else gets saved, by love." Hence, the title of my blog. I'm learning a lot about how GOD sees His Kingdom vs. how man sees His Kingdom. Many times, we try to build God's Kingdom as we perceive it to be rather than asking God what it truly is. I realized that for the expansion of the Kingdom of God, monetary offerings are not needed. All that is needed for the expansion of His Kingdom is the power of the Holy Spirit working through individual lives in unity with the Spirit. Another thought that God put into my heart was that it's not about giving more money to missions, but to give more of MYSELF TO MISSIONS. By faith, I know and believe that God wants me to give more of myself to missions in a specific way. The way I believe He wants me to give more to missions is by sacrificing my flesh at the altar so that the HOLY SPIRIT HIMSELF, and not I, may intercede through me. I am going to seek out the gift of intercessory prayer so that labor pains may come and give birth to NATIONS. I want to give more of myself to missions by dedicating myself as a vessel for the Holy Spirit to use for intercession. I believe that intercessory prayer is the reproductive organ of His Body and it is very vital to God. I want to know God's heart and be right there with Him in His concerns for His people and in His desires for the multitues of lost souls.
So to the best part of last night, the altar call. The message spoke to me so deeply and rekindled something God had birthed in my heart since I got saved. The speaker was a missionary from Sudan, and what God spoke through him was that our fears are the enemy of our faith. He posed the question, "What would you do for God if you were not afraid?" The Holy Spirit shined His light on my fears that were keeping lost ones from coming to KNOW HIM. I realized--I AM CALLED AND I AM CHOSEN. It's about Him and it's "up to me". Another point that the speaker said was that there perhaps was not enough bloody seed being sown to bear fruit. For we have forgotten that a seed must die in order to bear fruit. GOD IS MY WITNESS- I told Him this all night, "FATHER, I would rather be a martyr that a 'famous Christian'". I saw the need in my heart to die to myself. I thank God that He gave us an opportunity to seek Him at the end, which I did not hesitate to take heed to. I walked straight up to that altar and laid right on my face and prayed in the spirit UNTIL I WAS BROKEN. I was desperate to die, and would not allow myself to leave until I died. The Holy Spirit began to break me and I cried out so hard, "Father, GIVE ME THE HEART OF A SERVANT. GIVE ME THE HEART OF YOUR SON JESUS. I DON'T KNOW YOU." In my struggle I kept praying in tongues seeking that God's Spirit would dominate my flesh. God's love is so great, I love Him so much, I thank God for the Truth of His word that He does not condemn me. After some time at the altar as everyone was seeking God just as desperately as I, I saw a girl sitting next to me in tears as well. A complete stranger, but I asked her to pray with me together until we died and she had the same hunger and desire to not leave until she was dead (spiritually). We did and I thank God that I found someone to cry out to Him with. I felt so free in His glorious freedom and so free in His Spirit. At about 1am, her and I went to the 24 hour prayer room and just prayed and sought God's face with others there. She left after a few hours. I can't believe I prayed from 1am to 5am just rawly worshipping God, crying, dancing and singing to Him. There was a song they played "Set us free, I will sing until I'm free, I will dance until the voices go away, until the break of dawn". It was like it wasn't even me praying but the Holy Spirit through me so that I can serve Him better.
The most beautiful thing God told me last night was that He delighted in my desire. He told me that He was enthralled, and that is what I'm seeking after. I DON'T WANT TO BE GREATER THAN JESUS. JESUS WAS A SERVANT, AND THAT'S WHAT I WANT TO BE. I WANT TO BE HONORED AS HE WAS HONORED, and He was not honored by the praises of men. He was honored in His sacrifices.
I left with such a freedom and seal in it. My heart's desire is to know Him and be a sacrifice at the altar that continually burns.
Praise God for His goodness, and I can't wait until I find more of His heart.
Erin
I totally didn't expect what I received from God last night. Throughout the day before the night message and altar call at the end, I just had a lot of fun meeting tons of new people from other churches. I even video recorded a testimony of an Indian girl that God touched and set free from Hinduism. I don't have her video uploaded yet, but I promise to post it so that you can hear her amazing testimony! In each session, I learned of the amazing things God is and is going to do in different missions regions of the world. The more I saw how hearts were touched for Jesus and being set free from a separation, a deeper longing and hunger stirred in my spirit to catch His heart that is on fire for us.
Meals with the missionaries were also FANTASTIC. It is so great to hear the hearts of those who are on the missions field (both domestically and abroad) and especially the fruit of their labor, the testimonies. One answer to a question of mine that particularly struck me was from a Chi Alpha campus leader at Stanford University. I asked him the question, "So what is it like witnessing to Stanford University students?"Because in my mind, I thought it might be a tougher campus missons field than others. However, the campus leader's answer was this: "It's a lot more normal than you'd think. They get saved the same way everyone else gets saved, by love." Hence, the title of my blog. I'm learning a lot about how GOD sees His Kingdom vs. how man sees His Kingdom. Many times, we try to build God's Kingdom as we perceive it to be rather than asking God what it truly is. I realized that for the expansion of the Kingdom of God, monetary offerings are not needed. All that is needed for the expansion of His Kingdom is the power of the Holy Spirit working through individual lives in unity with the Spirit. Another thought that God put into my heart was that it's not about giving more money to missions, but to give more of MYSELF TO MISSIONS. By faith, I know and believe that God wants me to give more of myself to missions in a specific way. The way I believe He wants me to give more to missions is by sacrificing my flesh at the altar so that the HOLY SPIRIT HIMSELF, and not I, may intercede through me. I am going to seek out the gift of intercessory prayer so that labor pains may come and give birth to NATIONS. I want to give more of myself to missions by dedicating myself as a vessel for the Holy Spirit to use for intercession. I believe that intercessory prayer is the reproductive organ of His Body and it is very vital to God. I want to know God's heart and be right there with Him in His concerns for His people and in His desires for the multitues of lost souls.
So to the best part of last night, the altar call. The message spoke to me so deeply and rekindled something God had birthed in my heart since I got saved. The speaker was a missionary from Sudan, and what God spoke through him was that our fears are the enemy of our faith. He posed the question, "What would you do for God if you were not afraid?" The Holy Spirit shined His light on my fears that were keeping lost ones from coming to KNOW HIM. I realized--I AM CALLED AND I AM CHOSEN. It's about Him and it's "up to me". Another point that the speaker said was that there perhaps was not enough bloody seed being sown to bear fruit. For we have forgotten that a seed must die in order to bear fruit. GOD IS MY WITNESS- I told Him this all night, "FATHER, I would rather be a martyr that a 'famous Christian'". I saw the need in my heart to die to myself. I thank God that He gave us an opportunity to seek Him at the end, which I did not hesitate to take heed to. I walked straight up to that altar and laid right on my face and prayed in the spirit UNTIL I WAS BROKEN. I was desperate to die, and would not allow myself to leave until I died. The Holy Spirit began to break me and I cried out so hard, "Father, GIVE ME THE HEART OF A SERVANT. GIVE ME THE HEART OF YOUR SON JESUS. I DON'T KNOW YOU." In my struggle I kept praying in tongues seeking that God's Spirit would dominate my flesh. God's love is so great, I love Him so much, I thank God for the Truth of His word that He does not condemn me. After some time at the altar as everyone was seeking God just as desperately as I, I saw a girl sitting next to me in tears as well. A complete stranger, but I asked her to pray with me together until we died and she had the same hunger and desire to not leave until she was dead (spiritually). We did and I thank God that I found someone to cry out to Him with. I felt so free in His glorious freedom and so free in His Spirit. At about 1am, her and I went to the 24 hour prayer room and just prayed and sought God's face with others there. She left after a few hours. I can't believe I prayed from 1am to 5am just rawly worshipping God, crying, dancing and singing to Him. There was a song they played "Set us free, I will sing until I'm free, I will dance until the voices go away, until the break of dawn". It was like it wasn't even me praying but the Holy Spirit through me so that I can serve Him better.
The most beautiful thing God told me last night was that He delighted in my desire. He told me that He was enthralled, and that is what I'm seeking after. I DON'T WANT TO BE GREATER THAN JESUS. JESUS WAS A SERVANT, AND THAT'S WHAT I WANT TO BE. I WANT TO BE HONORED AS HE WAS HONORED, and He was not honored by the praises of men. He was honored in His sacrifices.
I left with such a freedom and seal in it. My heart's desire is to know Him and be a sacrifice at the altar that continually burns.
Praise God for His goodness, and I can't wait until I find more of His heart.
Erin
Don't wait for the "call"..
So you're probably thinking in your head "GASP.. don't wait for the call? What is this girl talking about?"
Well I still remember the time that Ps. Greg Wendschlag spoke in our youth service in 2008. Ps. Greg talked about becoming a mature Christian.. meaning that we didn't have to always "wait" for God to tell us to do something. Mature Christians should already be able to make certain choices on their own. However, I'm not saying that they shouldn't take into account what God has to say. Rather, mature Christians should already be in full connection with God, and they should already know what would please and honor God and what would not.
So what does this have to do with the World Missions Summit? Well, before a missions trip comes along, we always say, "I'll pray and ask God whether I should go to this missions trip or not." There isn't anything wrong with asking God for guidance, but if there is a need in a country with people who are hurting and crying, do we really have to "wait"? We must act simply because there is a need out there in the world. A need for a loving God who extends His mercy and grace on His children through the salvation given through His Son who sacrificed His everything. There isn't enough time for us to be "waiting" for an answer because there are thousands/millions of lives that pass away without hearing the name of Jesus Christ. The cry for help should already stir up the compassion and burden for the loss. God acts when His children cry for help. Shouldn't we?
Well I still remember the time that Ps. Greg Wendschlag spoke in our youth service in 2008. Ps. Greg talked about becoming a mature Christian.. meaning that we didn't have to always "wait" for God to tell us to do something. Mature Christians should already be able to make certain choices on their own. However, I'm not saying that they shouldn't take into account what God has to say. Rather, mature Christians should already be in full connection with God, and they should already know what would please and honor God and what would not.
So what does this have to do with the World Missions Summit? Well, before a missions trip comes along, we always say, "I'll pray and ask God whether I should go to this missions trip or not." There isn't anything wrong with asking God for guidance, but if there is a need in a country with people who are hurting and crying, do we really have to "wait"? We must act simply because there is a need out there in the world. A need for a loving God who extends His mercy and grace on His children through the salvation given through His Son who sacrificed His everything. There isn't enough time for us to be "waiting" for an answer because there are thousands/millions of lives that pass away without hearing the name of Jesus Christ. The cry for help should already stir up the compassion and burden for the loss. God acts when His children cry for help. Shouldn't we?
Wednesday, December 31, 2008
It's up to me
Calvary Family,
Today really messed me up! The messages were not exorbitant nor extravagant, but it did provide me the encouragement and motivation that I needed. It's a long fight and every once in a while it's nice to have a little "pick-me up" like I got today. It did not show me something new, but it did confirm what's been in my heart all along. If I ever talked to you during a Missions Conference, you'll pretty much hear me say these words..."I don't need another message, I'm good and ready to go to war" and that's how I feel right now. So instead of writing down my thoughts I figure I'd show you prayer that I offered up during the altar times today and tonight:
Dear Lord,
You are my love and my life. It is you from where my help comes from.
You have equipped me, therefore, it's up to me!
I am blessed and cannot be cursed, therefore, it's up to me!
I am anointed and appointed, which means it's up to me!
I have authority from on high, therefore, it's up to me!
You have called me, therefore, it's up to me!
You have commisioned me, therefore, it's up to me!
LORD, YOU HAVE LEFT IT...UP TO ME!!!
God...
I repent for reaching the "conveniently" lost and shunning the "inconveniently lost."
I repent for allowing Fear to cripple me and stop me, for you have...left it up to me!
No longer will I be a slave to fear, but instead a slave to righteousness and the Righteous One who has called me and chosen me.
Therefore God...
I will cry, I will try, and I will die. Not a death that is necessarily heroic, but one that takes place daily.
You are my Father and I love you and Fear ONLY You!
In JESUS NAME...AMEN!!!
On a fun note, as you may have heard from the others. We had the opportunity to attend "Windows to the World" where we experience different Missions Fields. Man, it was done well and was really life-like. In one of them, the Eurasia "experience", I had a homosexual man come up and tell me that I'm very gorgeous and hold my hand. He then proceeded to ask why I'm here. I responded that I was for the "experience." After he asked if I was Muslim and I told him NO, I was a Christian. Immediately I went from being a gorgeous guy that he wanted to marry, into, A PRISONER!!!!
It was a pleasure to also catch up with Jhan and Iris Hurst and Dallas Hinds whom I'm sure many of you may remember. Dallas just spent a year overseas learning Spanish and will be spending his next two years in Argentina.
One more day to go!!! And we saw snow!!!
Mahalo for reading,
Danford
TWMS2 In Cincinnati - Day 2
Hey Everyone in Hawaii!! I hope everyone is having a Happy New Years 2009!! Still here in Cincinnati rolled in 2009 with a bunch of young people who are also on fire for the heart of God!
We got a chance to have lunch with some missionaries from El Salvador. They told us some of their experiences and how God has led them to do missions work there. Pray for the people there. There is so much war and hostility and dangers. Pray for the missionaries there, that God will keep them safe, and provide, and bless their works, that none shall perish, but come to know the Lord.
Also, we got to go to these workshop sessions called "Windows To The World," where different areas of the world have a room, and they put you through as real as an experience as possible on how it would be to go to that country/area.
One of the ones that we went to experience was Eurasia. This Window To The World was a CRAZY experience. Me and Dan got put into jail.
I was just standing around when someone with an open Bible in hand was being led to jail and was asked if I have any friends. This person pointed to me, and I was like, "Huh?", but the people there took hold of me and put me in Jail. (Dan just said openly that he was a Christian, that's why he went to jail) But, this showed me how real the world is, and how dangerous it can get. I also realized that, though it was a mock experience, will I really be able to be serious about the people in other places and sensitive to the culture of different areas? It's hard to say, but going through the Eurasia WTTW gave me a better perspective on how reality is outside of America.
Also, another message that God and the Holy Spirit was tugging at my heart on was, "What is the limits of my inconvienence?" He is always finding ways of stretching me to my limits. This time he is doing it, yet again, with how far I will go for Him. It's true that, when you pray for a servants heart, you get opportunities to be a servant.
For dinner, we got to sit with Glen, the campus pastor of Chi Alpha for Standford University. He was telling us all about the ministry there, and how it is very similar, yet also very different and challenging at the Standford University.
We also talked to Shawn, who is a campus pastor in a University in Spain. And, as we were praying in the night session to hear from God and to seek Him, He reminded me of the Chi Alpha ministries all across the world, and how they are making a difference in yound people's lives. Maybe He is hinting something to me??
All in all, it was a great day to hear from God. We got to see snow (the first time for myself) in the morning, as well as usher in the new years praising and worshiping God. (The first thing we did right after cheering for the new years was pray and worship God for what He did in 2008, and what He is going to do in 2009)
There's still one more day left, and I know God will continue to reveal His heart to me, so that I may know where He wants in my life, and to follow.
Stay tuned for more to come, and have a Happy New Years 2009 from Cincinnati!!
-Alan-
We got a chance to have lunch with some missionaries from El Salvador. They told us some of their experiences and how God has led them to do missions work there. Pray for the people there. There is so much war and hostility and dangers. Pray for the missionaries there, that God will keep them safe, and provide, and bless their works, that none shall perish, but come to know the Lord.
Also, we got to go to these workshop sessions called "Windows To The World," where different areas of the world have a room, and they put you through as real as an experience as possible on how it would be to go to that country/area.
One of the ones that we went to experience was Eurasia. This Window To The World was a CRAZY experience. Me and Dan got put into jail.
I was just standing around when someone with an open Bible in hand was being led to jail and was asked if I have any friends. This person pointed to me, and I was like, "Huh?", but the people there took hold of me and put me in Jail. (Dan just said openly that he was a Christian, that's why he went to jail) But, this showed me how real the world is, and how dangerous it can get. I also realized that, though it was a mock experience, will I really be able to be serious about the people in other places and sensitive to the culture of different areas? It's hard to say, but going through the Eurasia WTTW gave me a better perspective on how reality is outside of America.
Also, another message that God and the Holy Spirit was tugging at my heart on was, "What is the limits of my inconvienence?" He is always finding ways of stretching me to my limits. This time he is doing it, yet again, with how far I will go for Him. It's true that, when you pray for a servants heart, you get opportunities to be a servant.
For dinner, we got to sit with Glen, the campus pastor of Chi Alpha for Standford University. He was telling us all about the ministry there, and how it is very similar, yet also very different and challenging at the Standford University.
We also talked to Shawn, who is a campus pastor in a University in Spain. And, as we were praying in the night session to hear from God and to seek Him, He reminded me of the Chi Alpha ministries all across the world, and how they are making a difference in yound people's lives. Maybe He is hinting something to me??
All in all, it was a great day to hear from God. We got to see snow (the first time for myself) in the morning, as well as usher in the new years praising and worshiping God. (The first thing we did right after cheering for the new years was pray and worship God for what He did in 2008, and what He is going to do in 2009)
There's still one more day left, and I know God will continue to reveal His heart to me, so that I may know where He wants in my life, and to follow.
Stay tuned for more to come, and have a Happy New Years 2009 from Cincinnati!!
-Alan-
The Experience
by David Kau
What another great and glorius day at the world missions conference. Today was a very busy day. It started with a message from Zollie Smith and ended with some hip hop dancing.
Reverend Zollie Smith was the first african american speaker I have ever experience hearing a message from. He spoke with such power it scared me. His message was "it is up to you, to do something". That something was going on missions and using God's gift he given to us to help the lost.
Next up was a lunch with two missionaries from El Salvador. We met Bob and Zorel. Zorel was really quiet, while Bob was the talker. He told us how dangerous it is to live in El Salvador. Bob is a lifetime missionary and his father was too. He kind of just followed in his father's footsteps.
After lunch, the unique individual experience began. We had to break into individual sessions to explore different missions fields. My partner in crime was Erin.
We first went to the Northern Asia experience. This part of the world mainly dealt with nothern China, which is a place I have no experience with. My family is from the south and I know the south is more open to foreigners and Christianity. The North however is more communist and dislike foreigners and different religions. It would be a whole new experience to be a missionary there not knowing anyone and the language.
Our next stop was Latin America. I know how to speak a little Spanish, but it won't fly there. I learned about the Latin America Child Care missionaries who help children get a education in different parts of Latin America. I believe that education is very important and is the only way for third world countries to rise up and become major players in the world.
The last session we went to was the Asian pacific. Me and Erin decided to go to this session because of the Hurst family. We met and spoke with Jhan Hurst which to my new knowledge, is Rolly and Russ's uncle. Very interesting. The Hurst family really have their calling in Asian Pacific. Asian pacific also had the coolest slogan, can't be silenced. I must wear that shirt to church on Sunday.
Finally for the night gathering, Pastor Dick Brogden spoke. His message was clear and simple. There are two things that stops us from going on missions: fear and inconvience. I really do not have a problem with fear because I am a guy and going on a mission is like a adventure to me. I would relish it. However what stops me is my inconviences: my family and my job. In a way, they are both related. My family expects me to succeed at my job. If I just decided to just quit my job and go on a year long mission trip I think they would disown me. I need to continue to pray to the Holy Spirit for answers.
What a great day. Thank you Jesus. Thank you God. The night ended with a new year party. So:
Happy New Year!!!
David
What another great and glorius day at the world missions conference. Today was a very busy day. It started with a message from Zollie Smith and ended with some hip hop dancing.
Reverend Zollie Smith was the first african american speaker I have ever experience hearing a message from. He spoke with such power it scared me. His message was "it is up to you, to do something". That something was going on missions and using God's gift he given to us to help the lost.
Next up was a lunch with two missionaries from El Salvador. We met Bob and Zorel. Zorel was really quiet, while Bob was the talker. He told us how dangerous it is to live in El Salvador. Bob is a lifetime missionary and his father was too. He kind of just followed in his father's footsteps.
After lunch, the unique individual experience began. We had to break into individual sessions to explore different missions fields. My partner in crime was Erin.
We first went to the Northern Asia experience. This part of the world mainly dealt with nothern China, which is a place I have no experience with. My family is from the south and I know the south is more open to foreigners and Christianity. The North however is more communist and dislike foreigners and different religions. It would be a whole new experience to be a missionary there not knowing anyone and the language.
Our next stop was Latin America. I know how to speak a little Spanish, but it won't fly there. I learned about the Latin America Child Care missionaries who help children get a education in different parts of Latin America. I believe that education is very important and is the only way for third world countries to rise up and become major players in the world.
The last session we went to was the Asian pacific. Me and Erin decided to go to this session because of the Hurst family. We met and spoke with Jhan Hurst which to my new knowledge, is Rolly and Russ's uncle. Very interesting. The Hurst family really have their calling in Asian Pacific. Asian pacific also had the coolest slogan, can't be silenced. I must wear that shirt to church on Sunday.
Finally for the night gathering, Pastor Dick Brogden spoke. His message was clear and simple. There are two things that stops us from going on missions: fear and inconvience. I really do not have a problem with fear because I am a guy and going on a mission is like a adventure to me. I would relish it. However what stops me is my inconviences: my family and my job. In a way, they are both related. My family expects me to succeed at my job. If I just decided to just quit my job and go on a year long mission trip I think they would disown me. I need to continue to pray to the Holy Spirit for answers.
What a great day. Thank you Jesus. Thank you God. The night ended with a new year party. So:
Happy New Year!!!
David
TWMS2 - Day 2
The sessions held today were pretty awesome! A lot of emphasis was placed on Eurasia (places between Europe and Asia) and let me tell you, that "window to the world" was quite exciting! They made it feel as if you were really in the country. They handed you passports and if you didn't get it approved, you were thrown in jail! If you told people you were a Christian, you were thrown in jail. The market place they set up was crazy, too! People were constantly tugging at us, begging for money, trying to sell us business in fortune telling, and some were even trying to steal our bags!! Also, as you walk through the market place, you could see they were selling pigs' heads, sheep, and all other sorts of crazy items (things you'd probably find at chinatown.. hehe). It made me realize how spoiled U.S. citizens are. Our public streets are as chaotic as that. It's sad how people have to live life every day in fear of being robbed or being thrown in jail.
The message placed in the heart of our speaker this morning, Zollie Smith, really hit home for me. The general point of the message was that "it's up to you--to do something!" As I was sitting in service, I felt God speaking to me. I felt He was continuously telling me, "the harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few." So many times we sit through a missions conference, or some sort of conference, and we agree with our "amens" and "that's rights!" with the speaker at the pulpit that the world needs to be saved, the world needs Jesus, that we need to GO! and make disciples of ALL nations! Yet... more than half the people don't do anything about it. Everyone expects someone else to go into the missions field and reach the lost. But was not the great commission intended for EVERYONE to obey? It's up to us -- to do something! And when we do something, God will move. I want to challenge everyone to go out into the world and do something about it. You don't have to go to another country to do missions. We need to go to Jerusalem, Judea, Samaria, and to the ends of the earth! Our missions field is EVERYWHERE.
As read in Donna's post, it snowed today! God is so good! We wanted to see snow (or at least I wanted to!) before we left but the forecast predicted that it wouldn't be cold enough to snow until Friday, which is the day we are to return home from the summit. But God is faithful and heard my prayer when I asked Him if He could show us some snow before we left! It was definitely a white (after) Christmas! :)
Miss you all! Can't wait to see everyone on Sunday.
God bless,
Kelley
The message placed in the heart of our speaker this morning, Zollie Smith, really hit home for me. The general point of the message was that "it's up to you--to do something!" As I was sitting in service, I felt God speaking to me. I felt He was continuously telling me, "the harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few." So many times we sit through a missions conference, or some sort of conference, and we agree with our "amens" and "that's rights!" with the speaker at the pulpit that the world needs to be saved, the world needs Jesus, that we need to GO! and make disciples of ALL nations! Yet... more than half the people don't do anything about it. Everyone expects someone else to go into the missions field and reach the lost. But was not the great commission intended for EVERYONE to obey? It's up to us -- to do something! And when we do something, God will move. I want to challenge everyone to go out into the world and do something about it. You don't have to go to another country to do missions. We need to go to Jerusalem, Judea, Samaria, and to the ends of the earth! Our missions field is EVERYWHERE.
As read in Donna's post, it snowed today! God is so good! We wanted to see snow (or at least I wanted to!) before we left but the forecast predicted that it wouldn't be cold enough to snow until Friday, which is the day we are to return home from the summit. But God is faithful and heard my prayer when I asked Him if He could show us some snow before we left! It was definitely a white (after) Christmas! :)
Miss you all! Can't wait to see everyone on Sunday.
God bless,
Kelley
Vindication...I think
I'm not sure whether I should be happy or sad to say this, but the biggest thing I got out of today didn't really come out of the general sessions, but more out of the exhibits and "experiences there.
Before we come to that, I'm glad to report that we met up with Rev Jhan and Iris Hurst and had a great time catching up with them. "Sole" is gonna take on a whole new meaning.
We also met up with Dallas Hinds, who was at our previous Missions Conference. It was a great time talking story with him and seeing where God is taking him.
Okay, onto where God's taking me:
I heard a very interesting testimony today. Lemme insert the disclaimer here that I'm not trying to weasel out of missions or put anybody down by any means, and I'm sorta ranting my head off here trying to figure my thoughts out as I type them.
A young man gave a testimony about his journey into missions at the "International Missions" experience. What made his especially intriguing was the means and timing to which God called him, which was unusual(at least to me) in every sense of the word. While all the missions conferences, conventions, speakers seem to want to garner this commitment from me to go to missions NOW(there will be an altar call for those interested in committing to a one year missions trip and praying about a lifetime commitment tommorrow), this young man took a longer path. This young man had come back from a missions trip and had felt a tug on his heart, he couldn't stand to go back to school, and I guess the whole "daily grind" of regular life, and he longed to be back on the missions field. Now anybody else in this situation would've immediately dropped what they were doing, quit school, packed up and left. Everybody would've been behind him to do so, and probably would've even encouraged that behavior. Instead, this young man sought the counsel of the husband of our first night's speaker. The end result, he WAITED until he finished his education, got his degree, and then went back into the missions field.
How does this apply to me? As you know, I'm the type of guy that always has to count the costs. Call it heredity or habitat, but thats just how I am. I always hate(sorry for the strong use of the word) when I'm asked to rush into these commitments that can be life-changing. Maybe its because our church is so missions-minded, but I feel so much pressure being at this conference. I almost feel like a failure not being on my hands and knees weeping and sucking concrete at the World Missions Summit where I'm supposed to get "messed up". I feel like a failure every year at the Missions Conference where I can't quite check off a box on the missions trips I'm interested in. I feel like if I don't come back to Calvary a full-fledged gungho missionary, then I somehow failed everyone who sacrificed their hard-earned money sending me there.
Did God stir up something in the last Calvary AoG Missions Conference for the first time? Most definitely. Too bad nobody ever asked me. Too bad that for once I actually ended the missions conference on a positive note. Too bad that the devil took that and totally wrecked the whole experience for me within a few hours of the conference ending. Too bad I took that dream and stuffed it back down where I thought it belonged. Enter M.E.
Medical Evangelism(M.E.) re-awakened that dream in me. A few of us with backgrounds and educations in the health care field went to visi their booth in the convention hall. This is exactly what I had been hoping for. I wasn't able to get much information, but I'm sure the degree I'm working towards can be put to good use there. As much as I hated God for it, it took me quite a long time to finally get accepted into the Dietetics program here at UH. It's no coincidence that in that same semester I would be taking a food/animal/human ethics course that featured a case study in which an RD went with an organization into a foreign country to help those in need. It's no coincidence that during that same semester our church hosted Pastor Bijuu Thampy. I managed to talk to him for a few minutes on Halloween before he left. I was curious as to how he managed all the food he fed to people, and he mentioned that they worked with a few dieticians! Right then and there I decided that I wanted to do something along those lines, maybe even work with Pastor Bijuu himself. But when?
Hearing the testimony today was great vindication for me. I learned that I didn't have to immediatly jump on the bandwagon, that its okay for me to wait and finish what I need to finish in terms of my degree before I go out to do work in the missions field. I don't have to feel like a failure. God's ordering my steps.
Hoping to learn more about Medical Missions,
Dustin
I'm not perfect, just forgiven.
edit: just realized I didn't even mention the "Eurasia Experience". If I had to sum it up, it left me with my eyes wide open as just to how ill-prepared I actually am for this sorta thing. I got so disoriented with people tugging on me and my bags, pushing me around, trying to talk to me, asking me for money, trying to sell me prostitutes, that I sorta just froze and shuffled my way to the seating area. Not very missionary-like huh?
edit 2: forgot to mention that we had lunch with Bob Buenos and Glen(darn forgot his last name). Very blessed.
Before we come to that, I'm glad to report that we met up with Rev Jhan and Iris Hurst and had a great time catching up with them. "Sole" is gonna take on a whole new meaning.
We also met up with Dallas Hinds, who was at our previous Missions Conference. It was a great time talking story with him and seeing where God is taking him.
Okay, onto where God's taking me:
I heard a very interesting testimony today. Lemme insert the disclaimer here that I'm not trying to weasel out of missions or put anybody down by any means, and I'm sorta ranting my head off here trying to figure my thoughts out as I type them.
A young man gave a testimony about his journey into missions at the "International Missions" experience. What made his especially intriguing was the means and timing to which God called him, which was unusual(at least to me) in every sense of the word. While all the missions conferences, conventions, speakers seem to want to garner this commitment from me to go to missions NOW(there will be an altar call for those interested in committing to a one year missions trip and praying about a lifetime commitment tommorrow), this young man took a longer path. This young man had come back from a missions trip and had felt a tug on his heart, he couldn't stand to go back to school, and I guess the whole "daily grind" of regular life, and he longed to be back on the missions field. Now anybody else in this situation would've immediately dropped what they were doing, quit school, packed up and left. Everybody would've been behind him to do so, and probably would've even encouraged that behavior. Instead, this young man sought the counsel of the husband of our first night's speaker. The end result, he WAITED until he finished his education, got his degree, and then went back into the missions field.
How does this apply to me? As you know, I'm the type of guy that always has to count the costs. Call it heredity or habitat, but thats just how I am. I always hate(sorry for the strong use of the word) when I'm asked to rush into these commitments that can be life-changing. Maybe its because our church is so missions-minded, but I feel so much pressure being at this conference. I almost feel like a failure not being on my hands and knees weeping and sucking concrete at the World Missions Summit where I'm supposed to get "messed up". I feel like a failure every year at the Missions Conference where I can't quite check off a box on the missions trips I'm interested in. I feel like if I don't come back to Calvary a full-fledged gungho missionary, then I somehow failed everyone who sacrificed their hard-earned money sending me there.
Did God stir up something in the last Calvary AoG Missions Conference for the first time? Most definitely. Too bad nobody ever asked me. Too bad that for once I actually ended the missions conference on a positive note. Too bad that the devil took that and totally wrecked the whole experience for me within a few hours of the conference ending. Too bad I took that dream and stuffed it back down where I thought it belonged. Enter M.E.
Medical Evangelism(M.E.) re-awakened that dream in me. A few of us with backgrounds and educations in the health care field went to visi their booth in the convention hall. This is exactly what I had been hoping for. I wasn't able to get much information, but I'm sure the degree I'm working towards can be put to good use there. As much as I hated God for it, it took me quite a long time to finally get accepted into the Dietetics program here at UH. It's no coincidence that in that same semester I would be taking a food/animal/human ethics course that featured a case study in which an RD went with an organization into a foreign country to help those in need. It's no coincidence that during that same semester our church hosted Pastor Bijuu Thampy. I managed to talk to him for a few minutes on Halloween before he left. I was curious as to how he managed all the food he fed to people, and he mentioned that they worked with a few dieticians! Right then and there I decided that I wanted to do something along those lines, maybe even work with Pastor Bijuu himself. But when?
Hearing the testimony today was great vindication for me. I learned that I didn't have to immediatly jump on the bandwagon, that its okay for me to wait and finish what I need to finish in terms of my degree before I go out to do work in the missions field. I don't have to feel like a failure. God's ordering my steps.
Hoping to learn more about Medical Missions,
Dustin
I'm not perfect, just forgiven.
edit: just realized I didn't even mention the "Eurasia Experience". If I had to sum it up, it left me with my eyes wide open as just to how ill-prepared I actually am for this sorta thing. I got so disoriented with people tugging on me and my bags, pushing me around, trying to talk to me, asking me for money, trying to sell me prostitutes, that I sorta just froze and shuffled my way to the seating area. Not very missionary-like huh?
edit 2: forgot to mention that we had lunch with Bob Buenos and Glen(darn forgot his last name). Very blessed.
The Journey to Eurasia and North Asia
Through today's conference, we were able to sit down and talk to real-life missionaries over a meal and experience a journey through different parts of the world. After the sessions today (especially the Eurasia experience), I had realized that I was not so bold and courageous in evangelism after all. I was telling God, "I guess I can't go everywhere you tell me to go." I guess I still faced a fear of rejection and unknown. However, I know that as I offer these fears and failures of mines, God will be honored, and it doesn't make me less capable of doing His work. We're all a working progress and I am totally opened to having God form me and mold me into being the servant that He has planned for me to be!
P.S I saw snow for the FIRST time this morning! You could imagine how crazy I looked as I was dancing in the snow =)
P.S I saw snow for the FIRST time this morning! You could imagine how crazy I looked as I was dancing in the snow =)
Tuesday, December 30, 2008
Hey all!
I hope everyone had a wonderful Christmas and a soon to be new years :] As you all have probably read already, our trip started off a little rocky. It's funny how the devil tries hard to prevent good things from happening.. or at least attempt to. I believe the devil is trying to use different methods to get the best of each of us, but I'm proud to say that it's not really working.
Flying to Seattle and seeing the Cho family was a blast. They asked me to tell you all "HI!!!" and that they miss you all! They're keeping Calvary in their prayers and hope to come back to Hawaii soon (at least to visit, and maybe move back).
Most of the stress was released when we FINALLY arrived in Cincinnati. Exploring Cincinnati was fun but the conference that happened tonight was incredible! It was definitely an awesome way to kick off a conference. Walking into the convention center blew my mind. It was breath taking to see how many people love God! And although everyone comes from different places, they have all decided to spend the week in Cincinnati, under one roof, praising God together. It's always amazing when you can praise God with your fellow brothers an sisters. The worship was awesome. You could feel the Holy Spirit moving so heavily in the room!! But I must admit, I was quite disappointed when worship ended. I felt like I still had so much more to offer God! The speaker herself could sense that the crowd wasn't ready to sit down! BUT, it's okay because I think that actually left the crowd hungry for MORE.
Our speaker spoke about different signs that we must be aware of and what spoke to me most was when she spoke about truth. Although the world makes something SOUND like truth, it doesn't necessarily mean that it IS truth. We need to be careful what truths we allow to direct our lives. That's just a taste of what's going on here. Ohhh!! I also wanted to tell you all that it is AWESOME to see so many young people at this conference. It's great to see people so on fire for the Lord. On our way back to the hotel from a gathering, I saw one of the girls praying for a homeless sitting out on the street. That was amazing. God is already doing things through the people here. We're going to turn this world UPSIDE DOWN AND INSIDE OUT for our God!! I'm excited for what's to come.
God is good all the time
and all the time, God is good.
Kelley
I hope everyone had a wonderful Christmas and a soon to be new years :] As you all have probably read already, our trip started off a little rocky. It's funny how the devil tries hard to prevent good things from happening.. or at least attempt to. I believe the devil is trying to use different methods to get the best of each of us, but I'm proud to say that it's not really working.
The night of our flight, (before it got cancelled/delayed-ish) a little mishap occurred.. As you can see from the picture above, I am in slight pain. No, it is not black nail polish. But, I did manage to slam a car door on my thumb. Looks lovely, right? Not only was there an enormous blackout in Hawaii, but I get my finger smashed, and on top of that our flight gets cancelled. While sleeping over at church I chuckled to myself and thought, "Devil, you do whatever you want but you won't prevail because God's on my side :]" I think that made him a little angry because the next day people were running into my finger left and right. But it's okay. God is still good and the bible tells us to give thanks under ALL circumstances. God is amazing and a little smashed finger, a black out, and a cancelled flight won't keep this team from doing amazing things for our amazing God!!
Flying to Seattle and seeing the Cho family was a blast. They asked me to tell you all "HI!!!" and that they miss you all! They're keeping Calvary in their prayers and hope to come back to Hawaii soon (at least to visit, and maybe move back).
Most of the stress was released when we FINALLY arrived in Cincinnati. Exploring Cincinnati was fun but the conference that happened tonight was incredible! It was definitely an awesome way to kick off a conference. Walking into the convention center blew my mind. It was breath taking to see how many people love God! And although everyone comes from different places, they have all decided to spend the week in Cincinnati, under one roof, praising God together. It's always amazing when you can praise God with your fellow brothers an sisters. The worship was awesome. You could feel the Holy Spirit moving so heavily in the room!! But I must admit, I was quite disappointed when worship ended. I felt like I still had so much more to offer God! The speaker herself could sense that the crowd wasn't ready to sit down! BUT, it's okay because I think that actually left the crowd hungry for MORE.
Our speaker spoke about different signs that we must be aware of and what spoke to me most was when she spoke about truth. Although the world makes something SOUND like truth, it doesn't necessarily mean that it IS truth. We need to be careful what truths we allow to direct our lives. That's just a taste of what's going on here. Ohhh!! I also wanted to tell you all that it is AWESOME to see so many young people at this conference. It's great to see people so on fire for the Lord. On our way back to the hotel from a gathering, I saw one of the girls praying for a homeless sitting out on the street. That was amazing. God is already doing things through the people here. We're going to turn this world UPSIDE DOWN AND INSIDE OUT for our God!! I'm excited for what's to come.
God is good all the time
and all the time, God is good.
Kelley
What a blessing tonight's service was!
Worship was great, "Mighty To Save" has never hit me like I did. One of my biggest fears with missions has always been about me not being worthy, whether I was good enough for Him to use. But my prayer was that which was said in the song, "Take me as you find me, all my fears and failures..."
After heated arguments regarding psychology today with the bro(the blood bro), the message was really spot on with me tonight, especially the first two points.
Caution: Good and Caution: Truth
It is so very true that throughout history(and probably for the rest of history), God's "good" will always be questioned. How many times do we think we know better? Or that His way is antiquated and not relevant to today's reality? Would most of us side with Judas at the woman's perfume annointing in that the perfume could've been sold and so much more be done with that money? The fact is that God's definition of what is "good" is gonna be different from what the world tells us is "good".
The same goes for "truth". In the story of Paul, he comes across a woman that is praising him and giving him all sorts of props for the work he is doing through God. But does Paul decide to throw himself a sympathy party? No, instead he decides to cast a demon out of her. Paul realized that words can be "spoken in truth" but not by the "Spirit of truth".
As goes with "good", we have to watch out what "truths" we follow to see whether they are from God or not. God is looking for a generation that knows God's goodness and truth.
Looking forward to things to come,
Dustin
"I'm not perfect, just forgiven"
Worship was great, "Mighty To Save" has never hit me like I did. One of my biggest fears with missions has always been about me not being worthy, whether I was good enough for Him to use. But my prayer was that which was said in the song, "Take me as you find me, all my fears and failures..."
After heated arguments regarding psychology today with the bro(the blood bro), the message was really spot on with me tonight, especially the first two points.
Caution: Good and Caution: Truth
It is so very true that throughout history(and probably for the rest of history), God's "good" will always be questioned. How many times do we think we know better? Or that His way is antiquated and not relevant to today's reality? Would most of us side with Judas at the woman's perfume annointing in that the perfume could've been sold and so much more be done with that money? The fact is that God's definition of what is "good" is gonna be different from what the world tells us is "good".
The same goes for "truth". In the story of Paul, he comes across a woman that is praising him and giving him all sorts of props for the work he is doing through God. But does Paul decide to throw himself a sympathy party? No, instead he decides to cast a demon out of her. Paul realized that words can be "spoken in truth" but not by the "Spirit of truth".
As goes with "good", we have to watch out what "truths" we follow to see whether they are from God or not. God is looking for a generation that knows God's goodness and truth.
Looking forward to things to come,
Dustin
"I'm not perfect, just forgiven"
Day 1
Posting for David Kau:
"Cautions"
Today was the first day we had a gathering for the missions conference, which is when we have service. Tonight speaker was a Missionary from Arizona named Crystal Martin. I think she is a Pastor also.
My first reaction when I got into the sanctionary was Wow! I have never been to a AoG conference and seeing. All those people tonight I knew I will be totally blessed from tonights message.
Crystal's message totally hit me in the right place. There is only two paths in life: the easy wide road that leads to destuction/hell or the narrow road that is tough to follow that leads to peace/heaven. In order to stay on this path I have to avoid/be careful of 5 cautions. 1. Be careful with the word good. 2. Caution with the word truth which only comes from God. 3. Caution with praises from men. You don't need honor/recognition for the things you do like giving food to the hungry. 4. Caution with Pay toll. America's greatest asset is money and we think that throwing money at a problem will solve it instead of actually going out to do something about it.
5. Finally the last caution really hits me which is One Way. I need to hate sin with all my heart instead of letting it be. My biggest sin is lying. At work, I think I lie about 10+ a day. They are mainly small lies that hurts no one, but I need to stop. One way also means to thank the blessor (God) and not the blessing. I am always thanking the wrong person from things that happen in my life. God is the one that makes things happen and he should receive all my thanks. Finally One way means to avoid gluttney. Growing up in america makes me want more things and money. God does not care what I have in my life. I should only have what I need and stop wanting unnessarily things likes a playstation 3.
Wow we went over a lot tonight and I can't wait till tomorrow gatherings. Tonight really made me analyze my life and made me think about what road I am heading down. I must follow God's way and stay on his path.
David
"Cautions"
Today was the first day we had a gathering for the missions conference, which is when we have service. Tonight speaker was a Missionary from Arizona named Crystal Martin. I think she is a Pastor also.
My first reaction when I got into the sanctionary was Wow! I have never been to a AoG conference and seeing. All those people tonight I knew I will be totally blessed from tonights message.
Crystal's message totally hit me in the right place. There is only two paths in life: the easy wide road that leads to destuction/hell or the narrow road that is tough to follow that leads to peace/heaven. In order to stay on this path I have to avoid/be careful of 5 cautions. 1. Be careful with the word good. 2. Caution with the word truth which only comes from God. 3. Caution with praises from men. You don't need honor/recognition for the things you do like giving food to the hungry. 4. Caution with Pay toll. America's greatest asset is money and we think that throwing money at a problem will solve it instead of actually going out to do something about it.
5. Finally the last caution really hits me which is One Way. I need to hate sin with all my heart instead of letting it be. My biggest sin is lying. At work, I think I lie about 10+ a day. They are mainly small lies that hurts no one, but I need to stop. One way also means to thank the blessor (God) and not the blessing. I am always thanking the wrong person from things that happen in my life. God is the one that makes things happen and he should receive all my thanks. Finally One way means to avoid gluttney. Growing up in america makes me want more things and money. God does not care what I have in my life. I should only have what I need and stop wanting unnessarily things likes a playstation 3.
Wow we went over a lot tonight and I can't wait till tomorrow gatherings. Tonight really made me analyze my life and made me think about what road I am heading down. I must follow God's way and stay on his path.
David
It's Only the Beginning...
So after much prayer last night, Dan, Dus and I finally retrieved our bags. God is awesome!
Tonight was the first session of the World Missions Summit. Events usually end with a big bang, but this conference started with a big bang. I believe that this conference will end with an even GREATER BANG!
The two missions themes that I have been constantly encountering are "It's not about me, but it's up to me" and "Everyone goes, everyone gives, and everyone prays." The heart and passion for missions is not only for a select few, but rather, it is for every one who is called a child of God. If it wasn't for someone who took missions seriously, some of us may not have had an opportunity to hear the message of Christ and receive the gift of salvation. Though some may not be called to become full time missionaries, we are still to be missionaries in our family and marketplaces.
In tonight's conference, our speaker had warned us of five things we had to be cautious and alert of. (If you really want to know those five points, I'll give you the notes when I get back) Though the message was inspiring, there was one thing that really convicted my heart. In 2 Chron. 7:14, God says, "If my people .. will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their land." Our speaker pointed out that God is an "if and then" person; meaning that IF something is done, THEN something will happen. However, we are the "when" type of people; always asking God when something will happen. I've always been asking God, "God, when will the numbers come? When will I witness the miracles? When will all the people of Hawaii bow down to you in worship? When? When?" In 2 Chron. 7:14, God says these things will occur, but only IF something is done. At the end of the conference I had to ask myself, "Had I been doing my part? Had I been humbling myself in prayer, seeking His face, and turning from my wicked ways?" I just had to go to God and ask for forgiveness. It was not God who had been delaying these miracles and salvations.. I was. Sometimes it seems as if we only knew how to present a request to God. It is not that God does not want to answer those prayers, but He is simply reminding us that He is not someone that we should run to only in times of need.
I know that this conference is not only changing my life, but the lives of thousands of young adults have been moved by the power and Spirit of God. After the gathering, we were all invited to a reception at Fountain Square for ice skating (in an OUTSIDE rink!!). The amazing thing was seeing two young adults offering food and prayer to two homeless people on the streets. God is at work already!
I (well Dan, actually) bought me this bracelet from one of the exhibits at the World Missions Summit. Erin and I got these bracelets from the Project Rescue booth, and proceeds go to helping save children and teenagers from human trafficking in India. As I wear this bracelet, I will be reminded to pray for Project Rescue in India.
Tonight was the first session of the World Missions Summit. Events usually end with a big bang, but this conference started with a big bang. I believe that this conference will end with an even GREATER BANG!
The two missions themes that I have been constantly encountering are "It's not about me, but it's up to me" and "Everyone goes, everyone gives, and everyone prays." The heart and passion for missions is not only for a select few, but rather, it is for every one who is called a child of God. If it wasn't for someone who took missions seriously, some of us may not have had an opportunity to hear the message of Christ and receive the gift of salvation. Though some may not be called to become full time missionaries, we are still to be missionaries in our family and marketplaces.
In tonight's conference, our speaker had warned us of five things we had to be cautious and alert of. (If you really want to know those five points, I'll give you the notes when I get back) Though the message was inspiring, there was one thing that really convicted my heart. In 2 Chron. 7:14, God says, "If my people .. will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their land." Our speaker pointed out that God is an "if and then" person; meaning that IF something is done, THEN something will happen. However, we are the "when" type of people; always asking God when something will happen. I've always been asking God, "God, when will the numbers come? When will I witness the miracles? When will all the people of Hawaii bow down to you in worship? When? When?" In 2 Chron. 7:14, God says these things will occur, but only IF something is done. At the end of the conference I had to ask myself, "Had I been doing my part? Had I been humbling myself in prayer, seeking His face, and turning from my wicked ways?" I just had to go to God and ask for forgiveness. It was not God who had been delaying these miracles and salvations.. I was. Sometimes it seems as if we only knew how to present a request to God. It is not that God does not want to answer those prayers, but He is simply reminding us that He is not someone that we should run to only in times of need.
I know that this conference is not only changing my life, but the lives of thousands of young adults have been moved by the power and Spirit of God. After the gathering, we were all invited to a reception at Fountain Square for ice skating (in an OUTSIDE rink!!). The amazing thing was seeing two young adults offering food and prayer to two homeless people on the streets. God is at work already!
I (well Dan, actually) bought me this bracelet from one of the exhibits at the World Missions Summit. Erin and I got these bracelets from the Project Rescue booth, and proceeds go to helping save children and teenagers from human trafficking in India. As I wear this bracelet, I will be reminded to pray for Project Rescue in India.
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