Always Remember

I remember the days of long ago; I meditate on all your works and consider what your hands have done. Psalm 143:5

Our mind is a wondrous and yet mysterious thing. The scent of a particular perfume or a glance at an aged photo can nudge even the most stubborn memories from exile. We all hold dear certain tangible reminders of a special event -a ticket stub from our first concert, a coin from a foreign country, or the petals of a corsage.

But why do we save such seemingly inconsequential items?

Because we don’t want to forget. Additionally, the apparently insignificant token we cherish enhances the memory, as seasonings enhance the flavors of a culinary dish.

For each of my children, I filled a small shoe-sized boxed with novelties from their childhood. In each, I saved the front page of the paper from the day of their birth, some baby clothes, a stuffed toy, a silver spoon, and various notes and cards.

Recently, we opened those boxes and wondered at items we haven’t seen in about four years. We laughed at the pictures, recalled almost-forgotten events, and marveled at the growth and maturity of our children. Every item was like a locket holding a secret picture; when opened it released its hidden memory and consequently, the next generation learned and cherished the stories of long ago.

I believe we learn to treasure memories from God himself. Throughout the Scripture, God continually calls his people to remember, his Holy Spirit aids our memory, and the Lord even gives instructions on how to remember. His people have built altars after glorious victories, enjoyed yearly feasts and festivals, and even now, eat and drink at his table, all in remembrance of him.

If you are a sponsor at New Vision City of Refuge, you have a photo of your sponsored child. I know many of you display these pictures in prominent places to remind you to pray. Some of you look at these pictures and remember the missions trip to New Vision City of Refuge and the significant ministry you provided. Others may know your sponsored child only through their letters and pictures in our newsletter or blog. However, I am confident you cherish these photos as we cherish your faithfulness and support.

If you would like to invest in the life of a child at New Vision City of Refuge Children's Home please look to the links section to the right and click on Sponsor a Child to get started.

It's a Mystery

Sophia celebrated her 13th birthday with a murder-mystery party (disclaimer: no actual children were harmed during this event). The cast of characters included: General Dijon, Princess Fuchsia, Miss Crimson, Chef Ginger, Miss Ivory, Miss Pheasant, Miss Jade, and Dr. Grape. Clues, food, games, allegations, interrogations, and the big reveal rounded out the evening. Everyone had a blast and we are looking forward to a house filled with teenagers now.

The World Missions Summit 2

We had a wonderful experience at the World Missions Summit in Cincinnati this past week. A variety of speakers challenged over 3500 students to give a year to missions and pray about a lifetime. Many responded and prepared to go anywhere and do anything for God.

One especially challenging directive came from an unassuming servant of God shepherding the underground church in a sensitive country. He and his family’s determination to pastor their local congregation in spite of imprisonment and threats of violence humbled us all.

A missionary in one of the most volatile areas of our world today, implored us to try (don’t give up), to cry (proclaim the gospel), and to die (to self). He also reminded us that fear hinders missionary service and impedes the progress of the gospel.

At the Summit, we met many wonderful people like Nureka (pictured above). A native Jamaican, she blessed us with her joyful spirit and willing heart. Although, you may have missed the Summit, you have not missed your opportunity to serve. Please consider giving a year to missions and praying about a lifetime.

Almighty and eternal God, so draw our hearts to you, so guide our minds, so fill our imaginations, so control our wills, that we may be wholly yours, utterly dedicated unto you; and then use us, we pray you, as you will, and always to your glory and the welfare of your people; through our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Amen. (BOCP)