Defining Moments

There have been a few moments in my life that have marked undeniable life change.

They have redefined my view on life.

Made me see what was missing.

Made me feel alive.

This defining moment did all those things, and so many more.

Teaching a group of orphans in Mponela, Malawi. June 2004.

This picture was taken in Mponela, Malawi. Out of all my travels, it remains the one of the most impoverished places I have ever been. 

I spent two months in Malawi shortly after graduating college. It was really meant to be a mission trip, and nothing more.

I thought I would go to Africa, love on kids, tell them about Jesus, cry a little, come home, and go back to life as normal.

I should also mention, I thought I knew it all.

Lets just say I was wrong on all counts.

After landing in Malawi I spent two days in language training, then found myself here, in the middle of nowhere. Also known as Mponela.

After spending a day with the kids at the feeding center, our team translator and host drove us around in the dead of night. Along the way he pointed out the brothels.

Brothels where grown men slept with little girls.

Brothels where children whose hands I washed that very day were being raped in that very moment.

That night my heart was broken. I prayed. I wept.

My life changed.

And the next day I hugged those children and played with those children. I sang with them and danced with them. I washed their hands and cooked their food. And then they sat down in the field, and I told them how precious they were. I told them that God knew them before they were born. I told them that they were beautiful.

They were each given a few crayons and a piece of paper, and were asked to draw the most beautiful thing they had ever seen or could or imagine. For most of them, it was their first time holding a crayon. We had to wade through the crowd and show many of the children how to draw and how to color. Then they were told that to God they are the most beautiful thing he can imagine.

The feeding center where I volunteered was a new ministry, set out to not only feed the orphans, but to stop the horrible things going on in the area. In a country where child "prostitutes" were thrown into the same prison as men until a decade ago, Ministry of Hope was helping pave a way for the rights of the children. So many of them who ventured to the feeding center for five meals a week had to return to the brothels for fear of their lives.  But slowly and surely, the ministry was finding ways to change that.

For a short time I was blessed enough to play games with these children and hug on them. I was honored to see them make funny faces and be silly and laugh as children should do.  

I experienced so much grief, joy, love, hope, sorrow, laughter, and sadness during the time I spent in Mponela.

And since then, I haven't been the same.

So, now I ask you.

What are some of your greatest defining moments?

Horses

Today I got the urge to jump on a horse and just ride.

Cold air against my face. 

Running free

Then I remembered that if I get any closer than this to these beautiful creatures I will break out in a lovely rash until eventually my airways close up.

And then I would die.

So I took this picture instead.

Bummer.

So Incredibly, Undeniably, Undeservingly Blessed

Come, let us sing for joy to the LORD; let us shout aloud to the Rock of our salvation. Let us come before him with thanksgiving and extol him with music and song. For the LORD is the great God, the great King above all gods. In his hand are the depths of the earth, and the mountain peaks belong to him. The sea is his, for he made it, and his hands formed the dry land. Come, let us bow down in worship, let us kneel before the LORD our Maker; for he is our God and we are the people of his pasture, the flock under his care. Psalm 95:1-7

Among other things, I am thankful for:

*Clean water

*A bed with warm blankets

*Freedom

*My job

*A car

*Shoes

*Opportunity

*Education

*Old friends and new friends

*My dog

*Being able to visit my friends in Zimbabwe

*Dilsly, Ruth, Lorkems, and Elahi~ my precious Compassion kiddos

*Running water

*Rain

*The seasons

*Access to medical care

*Hugs

*My students

*Toothbrush and toothpaste

*Children

*Coffee

*A home

*Food (especially Indian and Mediterranean food :)

*God's grace

*The leaves changing colors

*Change...

...and the list goes on.

I pray that your Thanksgiving would be blessed with warmth and laughter and love.

Who are the People in Your Neighborhood?

Recently it has been very apparent to me that here, in the United States, we have been blinded to human trafficking that is going on in our own country, our own city, our own neighborhood.

Recently my city recieved a $500,000 grant to be used specifially to fight human trafficking. The community's response has, honestly, outraged me.

Many people think it is ridiculous. They don't understand why we would spend money on a "problem we don't have" rather than using it to fight gangs, drugs, and prostitution. People don't realize that often times these problems go hand in hand.

The police department has rescued over a dozen girls this year from human traffickers, but people see that number as small and insignificant. Definitely not worth the police force's resources. What they don't understand is that there are, I am sure, at least hundreds more. Waiting to be rescued. In my community alone.

I worked as a group home manager for two years, and I saw countless numbers of girls- and boys- who were in the state's juvenile court system because of crimes they were forced to commit by traffickers. I know it is happening in my state and my city, because I have met the victims and I have heard the stories.

Unfortunately, many people do not know the truth. For some I believe it is simple unawareness, while others willingly choose ingnorance and denial.

The fact is, that by keeping it a far away problem, people believe it is not their responsibility. If it is a far away problem we can write a check or write a blog and believe we have done our part. We can even not care, as many choose to do.

But when it becomes a problem in our city and our neighborhood, we run out of excuses.

The other day I posted a link to Stephanie's list of five ways to help stop human trafficking. This list includes mentoring, buying fair trade, not supporting the porn industry, being aware/raising awareness, and praying (please check out her post to see these points in more detail.) If you have not done so already, I encourage you to read her post and see how your involvement in these things can really make a difference.

To add to your resources I want to give you the phone number to call if you see any out of the ordinary or suspicious activity. You know that feeling you get that something is wrong? It may be a twinge in your stomach or chills up your spine. Many times these things have value. Please, when in doubt, call. The National Human Trafficking Hotline is 1-888-373-7888.

I would also encourage you to visit the Conspiracy of Hope blog.
The post "America's Homeless Youth and Human Trafficking" tells a story of human trafficking here in the United States. As this courageous woman tells her story you will see the many opportunities that others had to intervene, but did not. I hope this story will open your eyes to the atrocities going on around us.

Last, but not least, my friend Michelle and her husband Jason have decided to step up and do more to fight human trafficking. God has placed it on their hearts to start their own non-profit organization to help girls who have escaped their traffickers have a safe place to heal. Please visit The Cinderella House ministry at their blog, Restore Innocence, and see if there is a way for you to be involved.

I pray that these words do not fall empty on your mind, but that they take root in your heart. May your eyes be opened so that no opportunity to help may pass you by.

Above and Beyond

Praise Report!

In just a couple days shy of a month I will be leaving to visit my friends in Zimbabwe.

As I began on the journey of raising support, I never set a fundraising goal, but I definitely had in my mind an amount I knew I would need to get to the other side of the world. The number was big, but God is bigger.

Way bigger.

Many people gave what they could give. Some amounts were unbelievably big, and some smaller, but the place of love and sacrifice that they came from make them all incredibly huge.

I also had a lot of people step in and help in other ways, such as hosting fundraisers, helping with fundraisers, donating to fundraisers, and spreading the word. Not to mention the bags and bags of donated clothing that I will be taking with me.

You all have been amazing, and my needs have been met above and beyond what I ever expected.

I am overjoyed to tell you that through the three yardsale and raffle fundraisers, as well as the Thrivent grant I recieved, all of my basic expenses have been covered.

The reason I am so excited to share this with you, is because it means that every penny you all have donated will be spent directly to minister to the families in Zimbabwe.

When I return I will be able to give a more precise report of how we specifically put this money to work to share Christ's love.

We are planning on using the money for needs such as shoes for the children, school uniforms, paying school fees, and covering medical bills for the families that Tecla works with.

I am hoping, as well, to invest some of the money in Tecla's business. Considering that the majority of the needs that are met through her ministry are funded by her business, I think that this is one of the best ways we can support her.

As the time draws near for me to leave, I am working on a specific list of ways you can pray, but for now I will leave you with one:

Pray that as Tecla and I meet over the course of the three weeks that we will have wisdom as to the best way to invest this money for the Kingdom.


Blessings,

The Perfect Fit

The elementary school where I work is located in an area of Fresno called Highway City.

Fresno in itself has many poor communities. Based on poverty/population ratio, it is actually the most impoverished city in the United States, and Highway City is one of the poorer areas of the city.

I feel as though the Highway City area is often overlooked because it is on the very western edge of town. Most people have no reason to go into the area, making it easily forgotten.

Today, though, the children of Highway City were remembered.

The local business called Granville Homes donated loads of coats for kids. Teachers have been taking notes as the weather has turned colder as to which students are in need of winter coats. And today every single one of those kids recieved one.

In our little autism classroom three of our students were blessed with big warm beautiful coats. The kind of coats that are well made, warm, and will last a long time. And it just so happens that the coats they were given were in their favorite colors. All three of them. One could call it a coincidence, but I will say that God cares so much about these little ones, that not only does he want them to stay warm and healthy, he wants them to feel beautiful and so very loved.

Our kids don't quite understand where these coats came from, but there was priceless joy as they put them on and pranced around the room.

So, thank you Granville Homes. Your gift of love was the perfect fit.

Check it Out

Hi all!

I wanted to let you know that Stephanie over at just a little bit louder just wrote this post about five excellent and tangible ways to take a stand against human trafficking. I hope you take time to check it out.

Also, for those of you interested in buying fair trade items, check out www.fairlabor.org. It has been a while since I checked in on the list of their participating companies, and I discovered that several have been added, as well as a few taken off. Buying items from companies who take a stand against modern day slavery is a very big and important way to help stop human trafficking.

This and That

A few short updates on life:

*We had a girls' night.


It has literally been years since all of us have been together at the same time. We had fun, and laughed too loud for being in public.

*I just spent 3 days in Colorado with my family.


My grandma's cancer has spread to her lymph nodes. She is undergoing a newer treatment called Herceptin. It is usually used along with chemo, and has very mild side effects. My grandma cannot undergo chemo, so they are testing it out to see if it will slow down the cancer on its own. Your prayers are appreciated!

*I am famous. Well, not really, at all. But I did find out I am a published photographer!



I took this picture a couple years ago at the zoo. My friend (the mother of this child) submitted the picture in some kind of contest, and last night she told me that it was selected for a coffee table book. She said it was a long time ago that she found out, and she just forgot to tell me (still love you Nicole :). Anyways, she doesn't remember who published it or what the book is called, but she does know that my picture is displayed on coffee tables somewhere in the world.

Last, but not least...

*God is so good! I am still praying and seeking counsel about my long term goals, but today I have been offered 2 tutoring jobs. The families do not know eachother, they just heard about me through people they know. They live in the same neighborhood. One family needs me the hours of 3:30-5, and the other said it would be best if I came after 5. The neighborhood is within minutes of the school where I work, and the timing is perfect. One person called me at 3:30, the other at 4:30, and just like that it seems as though I will be financially covered until summer. Coincidence? No way. God provides!

With being in such a confusing time lately with so many big life choices, my best friend Mary Ann has been so supportive. She sent me some very encouraging scripture the other day, and I wanted to leave you with a couple verses that have really been a comfort in an anxious time. Maybe they'll bring you some peace as well.

Although the Lord gives you the bread of adversity and the water of affliction, your teachers will be hidden no more; with your own eyes you will see them. Whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear a voice behind you, saying, "This is the way; walk in it." Isaiah 30:20-21

God Bless,

The Lame Game

*Warning: My nerdiness is about to be exposed.
(Has anyone else noticed that a lot of my posts have had warnings lately?)

So, I really hope that this game is not lame at all, but really super duper fun.

But to make it fun, you have to participate.

The thing is I am in Colorado right now, spending time with my family. I have about eight blog posts swirling around in my head, but none of them will get out for atleast a few days.

And, since I really like games (Apples to Apples is my favorite, incase you were wondering)...I decided we should play a game. Told you I'm a nerd.

This way, while I am away, you all can entertain yourselves :)

Plus, I have noticed several new followers lately, and this would be a great way for you to introduce yourselves. I would love to know who you are!

So, here goes.

I will start the game with a choice. For example, I will say "Cats or Dogs"...

Then you will answer with your preference, and then ask another either or question.

So if I was next, I would say:

"Dogs"
"Hot dogs or hamburgers"

Then you would say:

"Hamburgers"
"....or..."

You answer the either or question given by the person before you. And you can come back and answer more than once if you want. (And, if you would like, include a sentence or two introducing yourself if I haven't met you yet).

Get it?
Okay, here we go for reals this time.

Popcorn or milkduds?


Please don't make this lame,

Conclusion: Why the Persecuted Church?

In my intro post to this series about the persecuted church, I made the statement that this is the most important thing I have ever written about.

I wanted to elaborate on that statement, and let you know why.

If you have read this blog for any amount of time, you know that my heart aches for the poor, the sick, and the enslaved. But I want to say that I believe praying for the persecuted church is the most important thing I have written about for three reasons:

*Our brothers and sisters in restricted nations are, often times, the poor, the sick, and enslaved. And they are so because of their faith.

*Our persecuted family loves their enemies. The serve and minister to those who beat, imprison, and starve them. They offer kindness in exchange to brutality. And sometimes, as a result, God is revealed through them, and the persecuters are saved. We saw this with Mujahd. Someone risked their life to distribute scripture. From the one scripture that he read, Mujahd was saved and in turn has led many to Christ. A man who could have been used for many evil things is being used for God's glory. Mujahd is just one man, one example, of how God can take a heart determined to bring death, and mold it and make it into a vessel of life.

*The persecuted church is also the hands of feet of Christ for the poor, the sick, and the enslaved. They live in countries and with people that we have little or no access to. They reach people who are in the most hopeless situations in life and are hungry for Christ, because they are among them. They risk their lives to share the gospel with the lost. And even with those who persecute them.

Stories are told that in concentration camps, those who are known to be Christians are being seperated from the group. This is because they carry an undeniable joy, and the other prisoners recognize that. The Christians will sacrifice everthing they have- food, water, blankets- and go completely without for the other prisoners. And Christians will volunteer for the worst jobs, so the other prisoners will be spared. As you can imagine, their witness among the other prisoners (and sometimes even the guards) is great. Not because of their words, but because of their actions. So, in order to hinder their faith from spreading, they are seperated from the group. And, even then, they create ways to love others.

When members of the persecuted church are beaten, starved, thrown into prison, and forced into slavery, they do not ask that the persecution stops. They pray that they may have courage and boldness in Christ. They pray that they may share Jesus with clarity in the midst of their suffering. And they ask that we, as their family, join them in prayer

By doing so we encourage them and empower them to continue on in the strength of Christ. And through our prayers we take part in fighting the battle against the darkness of poverty, enslavement, and sickness. Although they offer in kindness every material gift they posess to those in need, it is usually not enough to end the physical suffering. But what they offer eternally is just that...eternal. Through them we take part in multitudes joining the family of Christ.

So, as I end this series on the persecuted church, I pray that you continue on with them in your hearts and on your mind. Through their stories we have seen the power of prayer, so I ask that you would continue to do so on their behalf.

Road Blocks

So, here's my question. How many road blocks does it take to convince you that maybe you are going in the wrong direction? Or do road blocks mean you are going in the right direction, which makes the devil shake in his boots, and they are just his attempt to get you to change directions?

I'm so confused. So please, as you read this and have any wisdom, advice, or decide you would like to be my personal decision maker, please feel free to share.

(Warning: this is very long, but I think that as much as this is something I want advice on, writing it out is part of my thinking process. Bare with me if you will, and if not thats okay too :)

The Direction:
As I wrote about a couple months ago, I have decided to go back to school to become an Occupational Therapist. For the last four years I have worked closely with the Occupational Therapists and the kids in my classroom, and I really enjoy it.

I also really enjoy traveling and ministering to children and families in developing countries, which made me think that that Occupational Therapy would be perfect. It is a service that is so needed and not available in so many places, and could really be life changing.

On top of those two things, as much as I love my job, it does not pay me enough to live on. Right now I am boarding with a gracious family in one of their extra rooms. I love it here, and they are like family, but I do not want to over stay my welcome. But, at this point, my paycheck isn't even covering my expenses (because of doctor bills) and my savings is slowly being sucked dry. So, I must make a change somewhere, and Occupational Therapy is something I am passionate about, and just seems like the right move.

Forseen Obstacles:
When God placed this on my heart, I knew there would be challenges.

Checking out OT programs, the nearest one is three hours away, meaning I will eventually have to move.

Looking at the prerequisites for the master's program, I knew there would be a lot of classes I would have to take before even applying, and I would have to do so while continuing to work full-time. I did it before, so I knew I could do it again.

I also knew that this would be a long process, but that it would be worth it in the end.

Last, but not least, I knew that school costs money. My plan was to try to pay my way through community college by picking up extra jobs here and there, and take out student loans when I get to the university. I have made it this far living my entire life below the poverty level, and God has provided. So why doubt him now?

These things I knew would be challenging, but possible.

The road blocks:
As I have looked further into the classes I need to take, the prerequisites have prerequisites, which have prerequisites, all but three of which I need. OT is a very sciences based degree, and for my Bachelor's of Liberal Studies I only had to take two science classes of my choice. It turns out the two I took are, naturally, about the only two that are not requirements for this program.

This means not only more time, but more money. Plus, these being sciences that must be taken in order, it will take at least six semesters to complete. And these are just my prereqs. I actually need to take as many units of prereqs as I need to take to complete the master's program. Overwhelming.

I completed the application for school months ago, and have just been waiting for my registration date which was last Monday. Lets just say that every possible complication that could have arose did, and we finally figured out the issues and I was able to get in to register today.

Unfortunately, every single class that I could have taken this semester is closed. This means that not only is the class full, the waiting list is full. I have to start with the core group of prereqs to get into the the next group of classes, so they are the only place I can begin.

Not giving up yet, I went beyond my city, and checked the classes I need in every single community college within 1 hour of where I live. ALL CLOSED.

This means, at the best, if I get all my classes for the summer semester, and every semester beyond that, I will be able to apply for the master's program in the fall of 2013, and if I am accepted I will begin in 2014, and graduate in 2016.

See why I am frustrated?

Now, not that I let money limit me, but more issues have arose that also make me question if this is the responsible thing to do financially. I want to be faithful, but I want to be responsible.

I still have student loans I am paying off from college the first time around. Then, this month, my health insurance went up 135%. Ironically, I am having a hard time paying my medical bills due to the increase in my health insurance. And, it seems that I will likely have to have surgery within the next couple months.

I also found out that because of a change in policy, I will not be able to teach summer school this year. I will be able to assist (as I do during the school year), but it will be a 50% pay cut of what I usually make during the summer months.

Urggghhhh....

The Choices:
So, as far as I see it, here are my choices:

1.Try again to register for the classes I need for the summer semester, and keep the faith alive that the money will come in to cover my surgery plus the cost of school.

2. Keep my job and look for another part time job to help cover my bills, as well as praying about what direction God wants to take me. (If I have another job, I will not have time to go back to school).

3. Continue to look into ministries that are already working with special needs children overseas, and seeing if they have a place for me. (I have done this, but have not recieved replies from any of the 4 organizations I emailed.) I would have to finish paying off my student loans before moving overseas again, so maybe a combination of choice 2 and choice 3 could be the right move?

4. Apply for the moderate/severe disabilities credentialing program. My supervisor has been pushing for this, but it is expensive. The first year would be out of pocket (or loans), but the second year they would likely help me with the cost. I could still use the summers to travel and help in some ways overseas, but in most places special needs children do not attend school, so I am not sure where exactly my education/experience would fit in there.

So, there you have it. In all honesty, if it weren't for the pay, I love my job enough that I would stay there forever if I could. But, I cannot afford to be independent, none the less use the summers to do overseas ministry, so I know I must make a move in some direction.

I have no idea at this point which direction it will be, but I will let you know. Or, you can let me know. Really, help please?

The Persecuted Church: International Day of Prayer

This week I have shared just a few of the countless stories of men and women of faith facing persecution, continuing to praise God and share the gospel at the risk of their lives, and counting it joy to do so.

I only touched on a few of the many restricted nations.

My hope is that this week your heart has been stirred to act on behalf of our church family around the world. I also hope that you have seen through these stories that the Holy Spirit is active and moving in the world today.

Voice of the Martyrs is a an organization committed to speaking up for the persecuted church. Their mission statement is as follows:

Serving the persecuted church through practical and spiritual assistance while leading Christians in the free world into fellowship with them.

I would encourage you to check out their website to learn more about these countries, how to pray, and how to help.

As this week comes to an end, I would like to share with you one way you can be a voice for the persecuted church today.

This Sunday, November 14th, is the National Day of Prayer for the Persecuted Church. I would challenge you to contact your pastor and request that a few moments be set aside during your church service to join with our family near and far in prayer for the persecuted church. Resources for the IDOP can be found here.

And here is how we are asked to pray (taken from the VOM website):

Our persecuted family is not asking us to pray that the persecution will stop. They’re asking us to pray they will remain faithful to Christ in spite of the persecution and pressure they face.

I will leave you with these words from Hebrews chapter 13 verse 3:

Remember them that are in bonds, as bound with them; and them which suffer adversity, as being yourselves also in the body.

The Persecuted Church: North Korea

Through the Voice of the Martyrs conference I learned so many heart breaking things about North Korea.

I was so intrigued and perplexed by the speaker that I was afraid that if I stopped to take notes, that I would miss something.

Every word he said was important.

I learned that North Korea is the only country in the world that was founded with the intent to corrupt christianity.

I encourage you to research the country's history, because I, as I mentioned, did not take the focus off the speaker long enough to worry about recording the names and dates, and there are many details I have forgotten.

I do know that the religion of North Korea is called Juche, and the leader of North Korea is the god of the country. The nation has also been taught to believe that his father (the previous leader) was the creator of the world and their race. The father, the son, and the wife/mother, make up the trinity of this religion. The religon was created to parallel christianity in so many ways, that often times when one hears about Christ, they wonder why Christianity is trying to copy them.

Services are held to worship the leader, much like our church services. Hymns praising his name are sung. And there is absolutely no room to refuse.

I also learned that North Korea is the hardest country in the world to not only be a Christian, but to hear the gospel.

In 1977 the government announced to the world that the country had been completely rid of all Christians. The world either denied or ignored the fact that this meant the mass annihilation of human beings.

Apparently, somehow a few, or maybe just one or two Christians survived. And from these seeds planted among the thorns, the faith has not only managed to survive, but to multiply. Although mulitplying is a seemingly impossible task, it is being done.

Every home in North Korea is responsible not only for themselves, but for two homes on either side of them. If suspicious activity is happening two doors down, and you fail to report it to the government, your punishment is equally severe as those committing the "crime." Suspicious activity includes the gathering of people, any more than two, which makes communication difficult.

Currently the strategic ways the gospel is being taken to North Korea are through balloon drops, ministering to North Koreans who temporarily enter China on work visas, and through sneaky communication to family members by those who have escaped.

Often times you can tell those who have just escaped from North Korea because they are a foot shorter than a healthy sized Korean due to malnutrition, and because they are often times green.

Unless a family is in the elite group who has no offenses against the government in any of their family line, they do not recieve food rations. Therefore they live off of plants and tree bark, giving them a greenish complexion.

An estimated 1/3 of all Christians in North Korea live in concentration camps. These camps differ from those of the Nazi regime. Those in the camps live where they work. There are no beds/buildings for them to sleep in at night. There are no food rations. There is working, then sleeping in the same area, and waking to do it all again until death. Many concentration camps are mines. Once a person goes in, they often will not leave the mine again. That is where they sleep and work until they die.

Other than concentration camps, those who are caught with any suspicion of Christianity are subject to all kinds of testing. Frankensteinian medicine, which I mentioned before, as well testing chemical weapons. Christians are used as guinea pigs to see just how much chemical can make a person absolutely crazy or disformed without completely killing them.

The torture of Christians in North Korea is absolutely among the worst in the world. Because of the strict government control, the small number of Christians there (believed to possibly be as many as 100,000) are flashing targets. But although they experience great suffering because of their faith, the church continues on, and people continue to be saved.

The story of North Korea is not a very happy one, but it is not without a glimmer of hope. It is a story we need to hear. As Christians we need to be armed with knowledge to fight against the battle the persecuted church is facing. We must remember that these suffering people, they are our family. We share the blood of Christ.

Please join me in praying for North Korea.

The Persecuted Church: Israel

One day Pastor Steven was running a bit late to work. On this particular day he chose to wear his American style basketball pants. The ones with snaps up each side.

As he was running out of his door in a hurry his pants caught on the doorknob. Before he knew what happened he was standing on his front porch, with his neighbors looking on, and his pants around his ankles.

He quickly snapped up his pants, laughed, and moved on. He ran to catch his bus, but got there just as the doors were closing.

Instead of showing a bit of grace and letting him on, the bus driver smiled and waved through the closed doors and kept going.

Thirty seconds later the pastor heard a loud blast, and dropped to his knees when he saw that his bus, that he was suppose to be on, had been victimized by terrorist bombs.

He knew many people who died that day, having traveled with them on that bus everyday.

But it was on that day that Pastor Steven realized that God had a plan, purpose and future for him. God protected him that day, because God was not done with him yet.

Pastor Steven was born and raised in Jerusalem. His church is there, and his church is currently undergoing heavy persecution.

He explained to us that how, after each service, a few brave men will volunteer to leave out the front doors of the church in order to distract the persecutors waiting outside. As these men run out the front, stones rain down on them from the people who have been waiting outside for their victims.

Meanwhile, people are being rushed out the back and loaded into vans. And still, with continual persecution, the church grows. Once, when Pastor Steven asked one of the men why he continued to come to church at the height of danger, he replied that even in persecution, he felt safer at church than anywhere else.

Pastor Steven also shared with us the story of a girl named Leena.

Pastor Steven had seen Leena several times standing in the back of the church while he preached from the front. Each Sunday he attempted to talk to this girl, but each Sunday he would watch as she snuck out the back just before the service was over.

Finally, on a Sunday that a guest was invited to preach, Pastor Steven caught the girl before she snuck out.

Leena told Pastor Steven she didn't know why she was there, just that each Sunday as she walked by she felt something pulling her in. At that point Pastor Steven shared with her about the love of the Savior who was pursuing her. She accepted Christ that day.

A couple weeks later Pastor Steven entered his office to find Leena's parents sitting there, asking what he had been teaching their daughter.

They were amazed at the change they saw in Leena. Leena's parents saw her transform from withdrawn and suicidal to joyful and radiant. Because of the change they saw in Leena, her parents also accepted Christ into their hearts.

None of this came without consequence for Pastor Steven. Angered family members beat him, but he continued on in his ministry even stronger.

One week, as Pastor Steven's church was holding Vacation Bible School, Leena asked if Pastor Steven could stop by her neighborhood to pick up some of the kids she knew. When Pastor Steven arrived, there was Leena, surrounded by 22 kids, ready to learn about the Bible.

That week nine of those kids became Christians.

Because of Leena's excitement for Christ, 11 people had already been saved through her testimony.

Sadly, parents and relatives of those children who accepted Christ at VBS were not excited, but angered.

At 4am one morning, during one of Pastor Steven's visits to the United States, he recieved a call from his father.

Leena was found, shot to death. Killed for her faith.

Pastor Steven wept himself back to sleep.

In his sleep Leena came to him in a dream. She told Pastor Steven to tell everyone that is was okay, that is was all worth it.

As Pastor Steven continues to preach the gospel in Israel, persecution continues.

Just 2 days ago a church down the street from his own was bombed.

As we met with Pastor Steven here, in the United States, Christians in Jerusalem gathered to full capacity in the ruins of the destroyed church. As Christians in Israel prayed for the church, we joined them.

Although separated by distance, we are united by a great God.

Today, as you enjoy the freedoms we have been granted, I ask that you too would take time out of your busy schedule to unite with your persecuted brothers and sisters through prayer.

The Persecuted Church: Pakistan

This story is less about a country and the persecution of Christians there and more about a Believer and the miraculous ways that God provides.

Mujahd grew up in Pakistan in a solid Muslim family. He was a respected member of the military, and his ultimate goal in life was death through martyrdom; death through jihad while taking the lives of Christians.

That is until the day he got his hands on a piece of literature. He read the words:

Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.

As he read he was overwhelmed by the message of peace and love. It was so different than the Koran that he grew up with. He was shocked to find out that this literature he was reading was, in fact, part of the Bible. (Matthew 11:28-30)

As Mujahd was transformed into a man of faith, he faced much persecution. In one incident he was being walked to a furnace to die, and before the men threw him in they told him his crime. They charged him with believing and preaching a harmful treacherous lie. Mujahd replied by asking if they had ever actually read the Bible. When they said no, he claimed that they could not charge him with such a thing if they do not actually know what the Bible says. Mujahd handed them his, and told them to read it. He told them that when they were finished they could come and find him if they still thought he was guilty. Amazingly the men did not follow through in killing Mujahd, but instead let him go peacefully.

Mujhad was able to attend seminary in South Africa. He returned home to Pakistan, but would occassionlly travel back to South Africa to share his testimony.

On a trip to South Africa in 1997, with his wife and two children, someone who heard Mujahd speak reported to Pakistan that he was, in fact, traveling to preach the gospel. The government of Pakistan made an agreement with that of South Africa that as soon as Mujahd's visa expired, he would be sent straight back to Pakistan.

With only 15 days left until they would be forced back to their home land, and with no money, Mujahd and his family prayed for a miracle. They knew that if they returned to Pakistan, that the punishment, without question, would be death.

Mujahd and his wife went to every place that they thought may possibly help them. They tried to get their visas extended. They went to the U.S. embassy seeking visas to the United States, but were told that they must apply for such a visa from their home country. They sought the help of the U.N. Each time they were turned away, left with no hope.

They returned to the place they were staying, and followed an urging to fast and pray. Like the fast in the book of Esther, they prayed and went without food or drink for three days and nights.

Mujahd had heard stories of Christians who carried Bibles with them across borders into closed nations, the eyes of the soldiers being blinded.

Mujahd prayed that the eyes of the embassy would be blinded. He prayed that they would not be able to see that their passports came from Pakistan. He prayed that they would not see the orders that he return directly to Pakistan.

The day after their fast Mujahd and his wife returned to the U.S. Embassy, and with no other explanation, the eyes of the embassy were blinded. Their visas were approved, and could be picked up in a matter of days. They were recieved with no further questions, and no hinderances.

Now that they had their visas, Mujahd and his family still had one problem. He had no money. How was he to get a family of four from South Africa to the U.S?

At this point they only had nine days left, at which point they would be deported back to Pakistan if they could not afford the plane tickets to their safety.

Again, they fasted. Three days and three nights. If they were not on a plane to the United States by June 23rd, they would be on plane headed to Pakistan to face their death.

The day after they ended their fast, a man showed up at their front door. He had, in hand, four plane tickets to the United States. They were dated for June 22, at 6pm.

As he was preparing to leave for the United States, Mujahd was told that when he went through customs, he would have to provide information such as where he was staying, what kind of work he would be doing there, and who would be sponsoring him while in the country. Mujahd did not have answers to any of these questions, but they went, with one more step of faith.

They boarded the plane and left South Africa with no time to spare. When they landed in the U.S. they moved to stand in the shortest line at customs. Moments later Mujahd felt the the urge to move to the longest line, so the family did so.

When they reached the front of the line, the woman asked Mujahd what he would be doing in the U.S. The Holy Spirit told Mujahd to shut his mouth: God would provide the words. After 15 seconds of silence, when Mujahd thought it was over, the woman asked him, "Are you coming here to be a missionary?"

With a big smile, Mujahd confidently answered "Yes."

And a missionary he has been.

Mujahd lives in the United States, where he encourages Christians with his testimony, educates people about the persecuted church, and continually shares his faith.

I hope his story reminds you of what a mighty and miraculous God we serve.

The Persecuted Church: The Middle East

Many of the speakers at the VOM conference I attended had to use much precaution to ensure they were not further endangering the lives of those in "underground" churches, as well as their own.

This story is short, and so far sweet. It is a little lighter than yesterday's post, but I hope you will be inspired by it just the same.

The name of the man in this story is unspecified, as is the middle eastern country where he lives:

A team of Christians (including Darcie who shared this story) were visiting this middle eastern country to encourage the persecuted church.

The team was in a cafe, and through a turn of events began a conversation with a man there. At first he was acting a bit unusual and uncomfortable, and one of the team members felt moved to ask if he was a believer.

There, in that cafe, in a blessed moment of courage, this man verbally- for the first time- proclaimed to be a follower of Christ Jesus.

With many people in the cafe hearing his proclamation, the man ran home. The team assumed that he ran to hide, as now his life was at immediate risk.

The next day the team searched for this man to see if they could find out what came of him. To their surprise, they met with him, unharmed.

When they asked him what he did when he ran home, he told them he made a salad.

They stood confused. Knowing he had just revealed a secret that could easily be punished with life in prison or death, he did not run and hide, he did not run home and weep and pray and plead. He ran home and made a salad.

But it is what he did next that makes this story and inspiration.

Now feeling quite courageous, the man made a salad, went next door, and invited his neighbor to join him.

Then with clarity and grace, he shared his faith.

That night the man prayed that he could live one more day. He prayed that he could make one more salad. He prayed that he could live one more day so he could share the Good News with one more friend.

And that is what he did. And as far as we know, he continues to pray that prayer each night.

So, to you I leave you with this challenge:

Go make a salad.

The Persecuted Church: An Overview

*Warning- This post contains content that is brutally violent.

In countries across the world, simple actions of faith- from reading the Bible to humming the tune of a Christian song- can mean beatings, years in prison, or even death for a Christian.

These countries, which can be found from South America to Eastern Europe, from Africa and the Middle East to Asia, these countries where Christians risk their freedom and their lives to share the name of Christ, there we find the persecuted church.

If you listen to a member of the persecuted church speak, you will most likely discover that they find it an honor to suffer for the name of Christ. In the face of suffering, they count themselves blessed.

Among the persecuted church, there is no such thing as casual Christianity. Claiming to be a Christian, or even uttering the name of Christ, means being willing to sacrifice everything to share the gospel.

When I say everything, you may imagine homes being destroyed, churches being burned, imprisonment, and maybe even death. These things are hard enough to fathom on their own. But there is more to everything.

Now, take into account men being forced to watch their wives be brutally beaten and raped over and over again.

Pregnant women being cut open in front of crowds as a warning to what will happen if a Christian creates life.

Take into account your son being burried alive because you preach the gospel.

Consider not the death, but the days, weeks, months, and years of torture that often precede death: Being forced to live life standing in a narrow way surrounded by nails. The slightest weakening of the muscles resulting in skin being pierced repeatedly, until it is raw and torn; Being skinned alive; Or, by accepting Christ, volunteering yourself for Frankensteinian medicine. Your legs and arms being cut off, only to have your arms replace your legs and your legs to be placed into your shoulder sockets. Just as a means of experiment and entertainment.

Consider even, a Christin being served a hot meal, and after finishing being informed that they were just served their brother or sister in Christ, or even their own child.

These things are reality, and they are happening today- right now- to our brothers and sisters in Christ.

But the amazing part...the miraculous part...is that in these countries, among the persecuted church, droves of people are being saved. And just like Paul, they find it an honor to be persecuted for the name of Christ.

In these countries the Holy Spirit is moving in real and undeniable ways.

It has been calculated through testimony and in-country sources, that in the Middle East 70% of Muslims who are converting to Christianity- risking their lives to claim the name of Christ- are doing so through dreams and visions.

Just as Stephen before he was martyred, men and women (many never before hearing of Christ) are seeing the heavens open up, and they are having real encounters with Jesus.

A woman named Darcie spoke about some of her experiences going into these closed countries and encouraging the persecuted church. She opened by giving a few moments for us to ask ourselves if these churches are growing because of the persecution, and if we, in America, are seeing a lack of genuine growth because of our lack of physical persecution. Her response was this:

Persecution is not the good thing that causes the church to multiply. Freedom is not the bad thing that hinders the church from multiplying. It is our response to persecution and our response to freedom that causes growth.

You see, in the United States, our perception of blessing has been skewed over time. In our comfortable churches we see blessing as a roof over our heads, never going hungry, a job, a car, having our needs met.

The difference between us and the persecuted church- the multiplying church- is that they find their definition of blessing straight from the Word they are dying for.

I will leave you with a passage, that if you have been a believer for any significant amount of time, you have probably read repeatedly. In fact, I would guess that many of you may have it memorized.

I ask that as you read this scripture, taking into account the information you have just read, that you would write these words on your heart. Wrap your mind around what they really mean. And carry them with you.

Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.

Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth.

Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled.

Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy.

Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God.

Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called sons of God.

Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you, and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me. Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.
Matthew 5:3-12

No Turning Back

On June 12, 2008, a woman in Zimbabwe died as a result of political violence.

She was not the first, and she was not the last, but for some reason her death, on that day, changed my perspective.

At the time I was on a prayer campaign for Zimbabwe, trying to to enlist people to cover Zimbabwe in 24 hour a day prayer for three days; the day before, the day of, and the day following the run-off election.

I am not bringing this up now to do lesson on Zimbabwe's politics.

I am bringing it up because on that day I felt like I had to do something to let someone know what was going on in this country half way around the world.

I had emailed my prayer contacts about the escalating violence and the death of this woman, but I got no response.

I felt like no one cared, and that the world continued on without as much as blinking an eye at the atrocities taking place.

I had to get my feelings out there, so on June 12, 2008, I started this blog. My first post was about this woman who died. Her name was Dadirai.

I am saying this now because today I remembered why I started blogging.

I wanted to be a voice.

I didn't know if any one would ever read what I would write, but I left that in the hands of God. I thought maybe, if there is someone out there who He wants to recieve this information, He will lead them here. And I thought maybe, if even by accident, someone stumbled upon this blog, they would read something that moved them. And, even if it was by accident, I thought maybe someone would care.

This brings me to today. I have used my blog to tell many stories over the last couple of years. Some of them light-hearted, and some more serious. Some fun and some meaningful. All this to say:

I believe that what God has placed on my heart to share with you this next week will be more important than anything I have ever written.

I do not write those words lightly.

I planned on sitting down this afternoon to write a light-hearted post, because I realize so much has been serious lately.

But this morning I went to a conference. A Voice of the Martyrs conference.

And right now I am so overwhelmed by what my brothers and sisters are facing across the world, that it would be empty for me to write about anything else.

Today I stood in a room with members of the persecuted church from across the world. We sang together, with no instruments, no trained worship leaders, just our voices and our hearts surrendered. The words to 'I Have Decided to Follow Jesus' never had more meaning than today, when I sang them in a room with men and women who had sacrificed everything for their decision to follow Jesus.

Even through beatings, fires, churches blown up, homes destroyed, friends and family martyred, attempts on their lives, they sang "No turning back," and I saw what it meant:

NO TURNING BACK.

In the following days I will be posting stories of real people that are happening in real time.

I must warn that some will be intense. Some information will be more than you ever wanted to know. But I ask that you read them.

I will do my best to be a voice for Christians facing persecution around the world. I ask that you would honor them by reading their stories. I ask that you would honor them by allowing their voices to be heard.

And to all my friends who have stumbled upon this blog and stuck around, I want to say thank you. Thank you for reading. Thank you for listening. And thank you for caring.

Feeling Anxious

According to a recent study by the United Nations, Zimbabwe is the worst country in the world to live in.

This breaks my heart into a million little pieces. So many people I love live in Zimbabwe. Although I am so excited to see my friends there in a matter of weeks, I also hold a level of anxiety.

I left the country in 2007, and since then so many things have happened. So many horrible things.

Inflation rates reached 500 billion percent and beyond, into uncomprehendable percentages.

Diamonds were discovered, which began a new export of blood diamonds. Hundreds of people have been killed, thousands forced into slavery working in the mines. Pockets of the crooked government officials continue to grow, while Zimbabwe remains more dependent on food aid than any other country in the world. Up to 80% of the population depends on aid for survival.

Zimbabwe's president, Robert Mugabe, was declared the worst dictator in the world in 2009 after he proved in the 2008 elections that he would do anything to remain in power.

And in 2008 a cholera outbreak swept the country, taking nearly 5,000 lives.

Zimbabwe is a beautiful country of some of the most beautiful, peaceful, and gracious people in the world. They live in a country plagued by AIDS, famine, drought, greedy government, human trafficking, malaria, and so many things that those of us living comfortably will never be able to fathom.

I am excited to return and see my friends, but anxious to see how they are doing; how they are surviving.

Humans are resilient beings, and I would say Zimbabweans are more so than most. While there I saw joy amongst the suffering.



Singing amongst the hungry. Laughter amongst the sick.



But I am fearful that even among the most resilient, there is a breaking point. And I can't help but wonder when, or if, that point has been reached.

I would be so blessed if you would join me in praying for Zimbabwe

The Challenge. November 2010.

Sorry, I am running behind for November's challenge!

Last month I read Radical by David Platt. This book challenges "the norm" for many American churches and Christians, and compares our lifestyles and value system with what the Bible actually demands of us. You should definitely take the time to read this book, and read it well.

David Platt ends the book with 5 challenges, which are all crucial for us, as the church, to fulfill the purpose of the church. For this month's challenge I am going to focus on 1 of these 5 points.

Read through the entire word.

David Platt's challenges are aimed to be achieved over the course of a year. I am definitely not saying to read the entire word this month. My challenge for you and myself is to find a "Bible in a Year" plan that fits you best, and stick to it.

I find that I do well reading the Bible regularly, but I also seem to lean towards certain books, and read them often while the pages of others seem to gather dust.

It is important that when you choose a plan to read the Bible in a year, that you choose a plan that fits you. Some prefer a little of this and a little of that to break up the long reading sessions (a little Old Testament and a litte New Testament). Some prefer a plan that goes from cover to cover. Personally, I will be doing a reading plan that goes chronologically. I have never read the Bible this way, and I am excited to learn more about the time frame of all the characters and events in the Bible. And, to make it easy, all these Bible reading plans are available here.

One more important point that I want to make is this...even though the quantity you read daily may increase by taking on this challenge, please do not let the quality of your reading suffer. Take time in silence to prepare yourself to focus on God's word and any revelations He wants to show you. Set aside enough time to thoroughly read the passages and meditate on them. Journal and ask God questions that may arise. You may be amazed at the newness that He reveals through words that you have read many times before.