February 2007
Hello everyone. We began the new year with usual challenges and unusual excitements.
First month of the year has been unique with physical ailment, edifying hospitality, variety of cuisine and divine restoration.
1.Month of Sickness - I suffered from some health complication and still on medication. Our son's health disorder bothered us so much. Several have been struck by the seasonal virus. Except one all that attended the B&L camp returned with cough, cold and fever. The neighbor living below our flat was sick and died. Surprised by the faith of a 6 year old that wanted prayer over the phone while suffering. I feel that we were on a medical mission last month because of my 8 visits to the different clinics/laboratories and health care efforts for others.
2.Month of Guests - At the same time, we had an exciting time while reconnecting with several saints. Almost everyday we had some body visiting us for fellowship and we are glad that we are able to serve as many in freedom under our own roof. Two of our key leaders where here and all our business meetings were blessed. I could minister to the brother that is writing dissertation on protestantanism during his research visit. We were able to receive and minister to a national colleague from another part of our region that is fighting serious spiritual battle.
3.Month of Food - Naturally, with many guests and visitors we had more food to eat. Frequently we ate out. Such occasions provided not only delicious food but enabled some fun with believers at the Christ centered "table fellowship". In addition, at least three birthday parties of my colleagues and a graduate filled our hearts too. We had some orphans enjoying home food with us while my other team members are regularly involved in feeding the poor in the street. In everything, with gratitude, we have not forgotten to thank God for the bread we are getting through your support.
4.Month of Grace - Last month, the Lord restored the family that was backsliding a while ago and they are back now with new enthusiasm. Delighted ministering to some old people and one of them wants to minister to others he is relating with. In response to our prayers and counseling, the marriage of the family that was wanting divorce was saved and in another occasion a reputed government job was secured. Peace made between two that suffered serious relationship problem. We are excited that we are able to get into lives of some people more deeply through personal counseling. Glory to God. Thank you once again for your care. More news later.
Attention Dec '06 donors: Because of the financial year ending our fund report from our mission headquarter is delayed. I will acknowledge the receipt of your support as soon as I get the donor tracking details. I was informed that the Jan '07 fund report will be also delayed. Thank you for waiting.
January 2007
PRAISE
1.The native staff attended the counseling course at the Eurasia institute returned after two weeks. Appreciating the report and I am sure that the enlightenment will enable a new approach to serve many suffering from emotional problems.
2.The first Almaty graduates' gathering last month and several connections with them during their individual visit to us has given a new hope for the work in our city.
3.A special gathering with students for carols reflected the quality of communal exegesis while playing from the birth narratives of our Savior. Exchanged gifts with a fun game.
4.Ministered to some other foreigners last month on unusual occasions that were in different needs at different times. One of that was at the Indian restaurant and it was really a spicy fellowship.
5.Season's celebration at home was enriched by the presence of some orphans. We could express the joy of our Saviour's birth with gifts for everyone.
6.God protected me during the ministry around new year especially during my preaching at church. I had police interrogation twice that caused some inconveniences but no problem.
7.An year old Muslim convert with us has testified to a friend for the first time. Unfortunately, the Muslim friend reacted negatively. With no discouragement while we are committed to pray for the friend, we are encouraged by the boldness of the believer becoming a witness.
PRAY
1.So much counseling to be carried on these days. Apart from a sister that lost her finance in an accident and a family wanting divorce, a fellow servant from another movement will be attended for about 6 weeks.
2.Almaty students will be joining the Astana team at the B&L camp this week to learn to study the word more deeply. Pray for the travel and the quality of "scripture discovery".
3.Planning to host some orphans this month to enable better connection with Christ. There will be some more visitors including some children that belong to the friends of our mission will be ministered.
4.I and my colleague will be exploring the possibility of having a summer global project for the first time in our city. Pray for His grace and openings. T,G & s
