We hope each of you had a most wonderful Christmas season!!
Now that Christmas is behind us we now anticipate the beginning of a new year. The first day of 2010 will find us arriving in Jo’burg. We leave Wednesday to return the vehicle our friends (Brodericks) loaned us while we were stateside. Rob and Susan live outside St. Louis. Therefore we are boarding our plan to Washington, D.C. in St. Louis instead of Louisville.
With the recent attempt to blow up a plane to Detroit from Amsterdam, security again will be very tight. We probably will be body searched and our luggage giving a good “going over.” Please pray for us as we make this arduous trip back to South Africa/Swaziland. We need to be at the airport no later than 6:00am on Thursday. Our day will be spent at the airport until our departure at 5:40pm. There will be no chance for clean up or rest before we begin our 18 hour flight to Jo’burg. Pray also we will not become too stressed or agitated as we go through the various check points. Pray our flight will be quiet and totally uneventful!!
YOUR ATTENTION PLEASE!!
Upon our return to Swaziland we will have a new address as well as change in emailing addresses. Please note and make adjustments:
New address:
Wayne and Barbara Myers
Box 190
Tshaneni
Swaziland
Phone: (268) 323-2311 ext. 240
Email addresses are also changing:
**We will no longer be able to use the africaonline address. Please delete from your computer.
New Email addresses:
Wayne: swaziwayne@gmail.com
wmyers@shelbywireless.net
Barbara: swazitalk@gmail.com
swazibam@shelbywireless.net
Also upon our return to Swaziland I will be busy unpacking boxes and organizing our house in Tshaneni. We moved a week before our departure for the states in September. Our furniture is in the house but now we need to unpack the many remaining boxes and make it our “Home Sweet Home.” Please pray for us as we make the adjustment to a new move and being back in Swaziland. Pray I will be able to get the house in some sort of order before our first volunteer team arrives the 12rd of January.
--2010 begins with the arrival of a volunteer team (January 12-21) to the Shiselweni region from the Atlantic Association in North Carolina. The team will minister through revivals, children camp, youth retreat and homestead visitation. Pray Hartford, Etles, Lucy, Kim, Melissa, Wes and Mike (team leader) will enjoy their work and ministry with the Swazi people. Pray many blessings will occur.
--The printer signed off on the printing of the Swazi people prayer booklet on the 9th of December but later emailed to say the wrong paper had been used. We don’t know what that means, so please pray the booklets will soon be printed, sent to our Baptist office in Jo’burg so they can be in the hands of the many prayer warriors for the Swazi people.
MEDICAL PRAYER REQUESTS:
--On the 29th of December, Wayne’s brother Terry will have his 3-month cancer (stage 4) check. This usually involves a number of tests.
Pray for Terry and his wife Darlene as they go through a time of uncertainty regarding these tests. Pray his reports will be good!!
--My brother-in-law is still recovering from undergoing back surgery the week of Thanksgiving. Progress is slow. Please pray for Pete’s (Rutledge) complete recovery.
-Pray for my niece’s husband’s mother (Debbie Miracle) diagnosed with Lou Gehrig’s Disease. Pray for the Lord’s strength and courage during this difficult time. Pray for the family as they continue to deal with Debbie’s illness.
AIDS UPDATE:
In November the Myers met with Don Brown from College Acres Baptist Church in Wilmington, NC to discuss the church possibly partnering with the Swazi Team to help spread the True Love Waits message throughout Swaziland. Pray this possible partnership will establish a strong True Love Waits program in Swaziland.
PRAYER FOR AMERICA: Father God, while we struggle with many hard pressing issues in this country, we pray that you will continue to hold us close to you. During the trials of a struggling economy with so many without jobs, we ask that all people would find your love and let it change their lives from within their hearts. Watch over those who would lead this country and guide their paths and their words in order to glorify you. Amen www.presidentialprayerteam.org
Thank you for contributing to the 2009 Lottie Moon Christmas Offering for International Missions. Pray 175 million LMCO goal will be met so all the peoples of the world will have a chance to hear the Gospel message.
February 16-March 2, the First Baptist Church, Washington, NC is scheduled to send a volunteer team to the northeast section of the country. Pray for Jimmy, Joyce, Caren, Roger and Jimmy (team leader) as they spiritually prepare for the work the Lord has given them in Swaziland. Pray the soil will be prepared for rich blessings.
May the love of the Lord Jesus
draw us to Himself.
May the power of the Lord Jesus
strengthen us in His service.
May the joy of the Lord Jesus
fill our souls.
May the blessing of God almighty,
the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit,
be among you and remain with you always.
-William Temple
WE WISH EACH OF YOU A MOST WONDERFUL AND HAPPY NEW YEAR!!
Monday, December 28, 2009
Thursday, December 24, 2009
Merry Christmas from the Allen Family
Allen Family before church at Peace Baptist Church
Hanging with the Poe family after a fantastic week with their family!Greetings from Swaziland, Africa! We pray extra blessings on each of you during this special season of celebrating our Savior’s birth, Jesus Christ.
As we look back on the year of 2009, we have much to thank the Lord for in our family. Ministry has been challenging, exciting, fun, and busy all at the same time! J God has done many great things this past year with the Swazi people and it is only a privilege to serve with such amazing people. We are thankful for all the volunteers that have come to Swaziland this past year to work among the Swazi people. Our mission team reduced as three units returned to the USA and we miss them all greatly. We are blessed with many prayer partners that faithfully pray for our family, team, ministry and the Swazi people. Without you, we could not continue the work God has for us to accomplish in His timing.
As we look back on the year of 2009, we have much to thank the Lord for in our family. Ministry has been challenging, exciting, fun, and busy all at the same time! J God has done many great things this past year with the Swazi people and it is only a privilege to serve with such amazing people. We are thankful for all the volunteers that have come to Swaziland this past year to work among the Swazi people. Our mission team reduced as three units returned to the USA and we miss them all greatly. We are blessed with many prayer partners that faithfully pray for our family, team, ministry and the Swazi people. Without you, we could not continue the work God has for us to accomplish in His timing.
Our family is doing well and staying quite busy balancing family and ministry each day. Lacie is now five years old and will start kindergarten/grade 0 in January 2010 at The Little Brown Hen Preschool. She has attended half days there for the past two years. The school year here is from January – December, with three school term breaks. She started ballet, gymnastics and swim lessons this year. She loves them all and even placed first in her age group for the Swaziland gymnastics competition in November. Lacie asks many questions about “asking Jesus into her heart”. We know God is working on her tender heart.
Nathan turned one this year and is quite an active little boy! :) He loves cars, trucks, trains and balls. He loves anything that moves or he can throw. The kids play well together and one of Nathan’s favorite words is “Sisi” (siSwati for sister)! We are blessed with two, amazing kids…thank, you, Lord!
Steve took the trip of a lifetime to Israel this year with Southwestern Seminary to assist with their Tel Gezer project, an archeological dig. He thoroughly loved his trip and one he hopes to do again someday in the future. Monica’s mom, Gogo Polly, came for a visit on her summer break and our family enjoyed having family visit us in our African world. Lacie and Monica made a quick trip to the USA in October as Lacie was one of the flower girls in Monica’s cousin’s wedding in Florida. It was a fun trip for mother/daughter and the “boys” had their male bonding time back in Swaziland.
Our family is looking forward to our stateside time in 2010 as we will be in North Carolina from end of March – end of June and in West Palm Beach, Florida, from end of June – end of September. We want to wish you and your families a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! We are sending you hugs and love from Swaziland to your family! May God richly bless each of your lives in a special way in 2010!
Swazi Team Prayer Calendar - January 2010
Friday January 1: HAPPY NEW YEAR!!
Pray for the Swazi people steeped deep in bondage to their traditional beliefs. Praise God for the many prayer partners and volunteer teams that give of themselves and their time to intercede on behalf of and who minister to, our team and the people of Swaziland. Also, pray that many more will join in His work here this year! The fields are white and ready for the harvest!!
Saturday January 2: After spending 3 months in the states (stateside assignment) Wayne and Barbara Myers return to Swaziland today. Pray for the Myers’ quick adjustment to being back in Swaziland. In September Wayne and Barbara moved from Nhlangano to Tshaneni and still have boxes to unpack and a house to organize.
Sunday January 3: Thank you for contributing to the 2009 Lottie Moon Christmas Offering for International Missions. Pray 175 million LMCO goal will be met so all the peoples of the world will have a chance to hear the Gospel message.
Monday January 4: Pray the members of the Swazi Team will seek the Lord’s guidance as they look to 2010 with joy, love and desire to make their lives count for Christ.
Tuesday January 5: Praise the Lord for the awesome Women’s Retreat last month (December 17-19). What a blessed time with the Swazi ladies and Hannah Poe did an amazing time teaching the woman about the “Power of the Journey”! Pray for the new women representatives on the National Women’s Committee as they lead and guide the woman’s ministry in our Swazi Baptist churches.
Wednesday January 6: Sarah Warren continues to have trouble seeing through the center of her right eye. Pray this problem will improve. She has been wearing a patch on her left eye to strengthen her right eye.
Thursday January 7: In November the Myers met with Don Brown from College Acres Baptist Church, Wilmington, NC to discuss the church possibly partnering with the Swazi Team to help spread the True Love Waits message throughout Swaziland. Pray this possible partnership will establish a strong True Love Waits program in Swaziland.
Friday January 8: January 8-9 is the scheduled Hhohho region youth retreat. Pray the logistics will come together and for unity among the youth in the Hhohho region. May God’s presence fill them in a special way throughout the weekend.
Saturday January 9: Pray for today’s meeting of the Baptist Convention of Swaziland. The group will discuss plans for the Easter services (for all Swazi Baptist churches) April 1-4. Pray for unity in decisions about location, speakers, schedule and logistic items. Pray this will be a great and exciting year of ministry for the Swaziland Baptist Convention. Pray for a spirit of unity during discussions and planning.
Sunday January 10: Continue to pray for all our Baptist churches without pastoral leadership. Pray for these churches to remain one body and faithful in serving one another as they patiently wait on the Lord to provide the right person to lead these churches.
Monday January 11: Tomorrow (12th) the volunteer team from the Atlantic Association (North Carolina) arrives in the Shiselweni region of Swaziland. The team will minister through revivals, children camp, youth retreat and homestead visitation. Pray Hartford, Etles, Lucy, Kim, Melissa, Wes and Mike will enjoy their work and ministry with the Swazi people. Pray many blessings will occur.
Tuesday January 12: Pray for Steve and Monica Allen today on the 8th wedding anniversary!! J
Pray for the Allen family as they continue to make plans for their stateside assignment March 26-end of September. Their plans include a time in northwestern North Carolina the first three months and south Florida for their last three months.
Wednesday January 13: In December the Manzini region youth retreat was conducted. Even though the numbers were small, the group did all the planning, shopping and organizing. We praise the Lord for their leadership attitude! Pray more and more the Swazis will take the lead in organizing and leading special events.
Thursday January 14: Pray for the many Swazis being misled and confused by the Muslim faith. Promises are made and granted if those interested will convert to this religion. Pray for a change of attitudes of the Swazis converting for gain. Pray Christians will see the urgency of witnessing to their lost friends and neighbors.
Friday January 15: The Swazi Team is excited to learn Al and Belinda Jordan will return to Swaziland to cover for the Allens while they are on stateside assignment. The Jordans have served previously in Swaziland and South Africa. Pray for Al and Belinda as they make preparations to fill in for the Allens for six months. They are scheduled to arrive around the 20th of March.
Saturday January 16: Pray 2010 will be the year the King of Swaziland, his wives and children will hear the true Gospel message. Pray for a change in beliefs and lifestyles in the royal family.
Sunday January 17: Praise the Lord, Lesibovu has officially been granted their own plot of land by the chief and elders of the community! Pray for this new church of believers as they begin to raise their own funds to start building their own church structure. In recent months, the World Vision organization has allowed the church to use their “feeding station” building to meet for Bible studies and worship each week. Prior to this, the church met under the trees outside after being “kicked” out of the building used by the Zionist groups.
Monday January 18: Please continue praying for the Myers’ family members dealing with medical issues. Barbara’s brother-in-law is recovering from surgery; Wayne’s brother in remission from stage 4 cancer and Barbara’s nephew-in-law’s mother diagnosed with Lou Gehrig’s Disease.
Tuesday January 19: Today Lacie Allen starts her Kindergarten O school year. Pray for her to do well in school and be a light of Jesus in her class. She will attend the Little Brown Hen Preschool for kindergarten most of the term. After the family returns from stateside assignment (March 26 until the end of September), she will continue with the final term of kindergarten at the Little Brown Hen Preschool.
Wednesday January 20: She is a tiny and short little girl. It is easy to lift her because she weighs so little but then her parents are short in stature and very thin. Her parents as well as her older sister are also HIV positive for the virus that will eventually lead to AIDS. Statistics continue to tell us that many in Swaziland are HIV positive and many are dying with AIDS. The country of Swaziland contains less than 1 million Swazis and the population continues to decline due to the AIDS pandemic. Pray the AIDS pandemic will begin to lose its grip on the Swazi people. Pray for a spiritual revival in the hearts of Christians that will lead to godly lifestyles and salvation for the many living in spiritual darkness.
Thursday January 21: Continue to pray the personnel job request for the Manzini region of Swaziland will soon be filled. Manzini is the largest city in Swaziland and presently very few attends a Baptist church.
Friday January 22: The Africa Support Center teams provide personnel, logistics, finance and communication support of local ministries including personal evangelism, cell groups, are also involved in local churches and chronological Bible storying training, youth and young adults outreach, and caring for widows, orphans and the homeless. Pray for team members to find a godly balance between support center responsibilities and ministry outside their offices.
Saturday January 23: PRAY FOR AMERICA:
Father God, while we struggle with many hard pressing issues in this country, we pray that you will continue to hold us close to you. During the trials of a struggling economy with so many without jobs, we ask that all people would find your love and let it change their lives from within their hearts. Watch over those who would lead this country and guide their paths and their words in order to glorify. Amen. www.presidentialprayerteam.org
Sunday January 24: Pray the Lord will burden the hearts of the Swazi church leaders to develop strong prayer relationships with Him. Pray prayer will be an important ministry in every Swazi Baptist church.
Monday January 25: Each year the Swazi Baptist churches have the opportunity to send their youth to the National Youth Camp in August. The First Baptist Church, Belton, Texas is praying concerning possibly leading the 2010 camp. Pray as this church seeks the Lord’s guidance in their decision. Begin now praying for the planning of this very special yearly event.
Tuesday January 26: Sarah Warren continues to have problems with tingling in her feet/toes. Blood tests have come back perfect. Today she has an appointment with her neurologist. Pray for wisdom for the doctors as they try to determine the cause of the tingling.
Wednesday January 27: Please join us in praying for co-laborers to come and join the Lord’s work in Swaziland through short-term volunteer teams, dedicated prayer warriors or full-time service.
Thursday January 28: Pray for protection for girls living in situations that are not safe and lead to sexual abuse and possible death. Pray the Swazi government will take notice of the plight of women and children and will seek to pass laws that will protect them. Pray for a safer place to live for children that will allow them to have a future.
Friday January 29: Pray for revival, holy living, clear evangelical message proclaimed and great unity among Christian leaders. Pray also the stronghold of witchcraft and ancestor worship as well as immorality will be broken within the Swazi churches and nation.
Saturday January 30: February 16-March 2, the First Baptist Church, Washington, NC is scheduled to send a volunteer team to the northeast section of the country. Pray for Jimmy, Joyce, Caren, Roger and Jimmy (team leader) as they spiritually prepare for the work the Lord has given them in Swaziland. Pray the soil will be prepared for rich blessings.
Sunday January 31: Pray Swazi Baptist pastors and laymen will see the need to start new groups/churches so many Swazis will come to know Jesus as their Savior. Pray barriers will be overcome and a church planting movement will start among the Swazi Baptist churches in Swaziland.
****************************
Thy Word is like a garden, Lord,
With flowers bright and fair;
And everyone who seeks may pluck
A lovely cluster there.
They Word is a like a deep, deep mine;
And jewels rich and rare
And hidden in its mighty depths
For every searcher there.
The Word is like a starry host;
A thousand rays of light
Are seen to guide the traveler,
And make His pathway bright.
Thy Word is like an armory,
Where soldiers may repair,
And find, for life’s long battle-day,
All needful weapons there.
O may I love Thy precious Word,
May I explore the mine,
May I its fragrant flowers glean,
May light upon me shine.
O may I find our armor there,
Thy Word my trusty sword;
I’ll learn to fight with every foe
The battle of the Lord.
(Edwin Hodder 1837-1904)
Pray for the Swazi people steeped deep in bondage to their traditional beliefs. Praise God for the many prayer partners and volunteer teams that give of themselves and their time to intercede on behalf of and who minister to, our team and the people of Swaziland. Also, pray that many more will join in His work here this year! The fields are white and ready for the harvest!!
Saturday January 2: After spending 3 months in the states (stateside assignment) Wayne and Barbara Myers return to Swaziland today. Pray for the Myers’ quick adjustment to being back in Swaziland. In September Wayne and Barbara moved from Nhlangano to Tshaneni and still have boxes to unpack and a house to organize.
Sunday January 3: Thank you for contributing to the 2009 Lottie Moon Christmas Offering for International Missions. Pray 175 million LMCO goal will be met so all the peoples of the world will have a chance to hear the Gospel message.
Monday January 4: Pray the members of the Swazi Team will seek the Lord’s guidance as they look to 2010 with joy, love and desire to make their lives count for Christ.
Tuesday January 5: Praise the Lord for the awesome Women’s Retreat last month (December 17-19). What a blessed time with the Swazi ladies and Hannah Poe did an amazing time teaching the woman about the “Power of the Journey”! Pray for the new women representatives on the National Women’s Committee as they lead and guide the woman’s ministry in our Swazi Baptist churches.
Wednesday January 6: Sarah Warren continues to have trouble seeing through the center of her right eye. Pray this problem will improve. She has been wearing a patch on her left eye to strengthen her right eye.
Thursday January 7: In November the Myers met with Don Brown from College Acres Baptist Church, Wilmington, NC to discuss the church possibly partnering with the Swazi Team to help spread the True Love Waits message throughout Swaziland. Pray this possible partnership will establish a strong True Love Waits program in Swaziland.
Friday January 8: January 8-9 is the scheduled Hhohho region youth retreat. Pray the logistics will come together and for unity among the youth in the Hhohho region. May God’s presence fill them in a special way throughout the weekend.
Saturday January 9: Pray for today’s meeting of the Baptist Convention of Swaziland. The group will discuss plans for the Easter services (for all Swazi Baptist churches) April 1-4. Pray for unity in decisions about location, speakers, schedule and logistic items. Pray this will be a great and exciting year of ministry for the Swaziland Baptist Convention. Pray for a spirit of unity during discussions and planning.
Sunday January 10: Continue to pray for all our Baptist churches without pastoral leadership. Pray for these churches to remain one body and faithful in serving one another as they patiently wait on the Lord to provide the right person to lead these churches.
Monday January 11: Tomorrow (12th) the volunteer team from the Atlantic Association (North Carolina) arrives in the Shiselweni region of Swaziland. The team will minister through revivals, children camp, youth retreat and homestead visitation. Pray Hartford, Etles, Lucy, Kim, Melissa, Wes and Mike will enjoy their work and ministry with the Swazi people. Pray many blessings will occur.
Tuesday January 12: Pray for Steve and Monica Allen today on the 8th wedding anniversary!! J
Pray for the Allen family as they continue to make plans for their stateside assignment March 26-end of September. Their plans include a time in northwestern North Carolina the first three months and south Florida for their last three months.
Wednesday January 13: In December the Manzini region youth retreat was conducted. Even though the numbers were small, the group did all the planning, shopping and organizing. We praise the Lord for their leadership attitude! Pray more and more the Swazis will take the lead in organizing and leading special events.
Thursday January 14: Pray for the many Swazis being misled and confused by the Muslim faith. Promises are made and granted if those interested will convert to this religion. Pray for a change of attitudes of the Swazis converting for gain. Pray Christians will see the urgency of witnessing to their lost friends and neighbors.
Friday January 15: The Swazi Team is excited to learn Al and Belinda Jordan will return to Swaziland to cover for the Allens while they are on stateside assignment. The Jordans have served previously in Swaziland and South Africa. Pray for Al and Belinda as they make preparations to fill in for the Allens for six months. They are scheduled to arrive around the 20th of March.
Saturday January 16: Pray 2010 will be the year the King of Swaziland, his wives and children will hear the true Gospel message. Pray for a change in beliefs and lifestyles in the royal family.
Sunday January 17: Praise the Lord, Lesibovu has officially been granted their own plot of land by the chief and elders of the community! Pray for this new church of believers as they begin to raise their own funds to start building their own church structure. In recent months, the World Vision organization has allowed the church to use their “feeding station” building to meet for Bible studies and worship each week. Prior to this, the church met under the trees outside after being “kicked” out of the building used by the Zionist groups.
Monday January 18: Please continue praying for the Myers’ family members dealing with medical issues. Barbara’s brother-in-law is recovering from surgery; Wayne’s brother in remission from stage 4 cancer and Barbara’s nephew-in-law’s mother diagnosed with Lou Gehrig’s Disease.
Tuesday January 19: Today Lacie Allen starts her Kindergarten O school year. Pray for her to do well in school and be a light of Jesus in her class. She will attend the Little Brown Hen Preschool for kindergarten most of the term. After the family returns from stateside assignment (March 26 until the end of September), she will continue with the final term of kindergarten at the Little Brown Hen Preschool.
Wednesday January 20: She is a tiny and short little girl. It is easy to lift her because she weighs so little but then her parents are short in stature and very thin. Her parents as well as her older sister are also HIV positive for the virus that will eventually lead to AIDS. Statistics continue to tell us that many in Swaziland are HIV positive and many are dying with AIDS. The country of Swaziland contains less than 1 million Swazis and the population continues to decline due to the AIDS pandemic. Pray the AIDS pandemic will begin to lose its grip on the Swazi people. Pray for a spiritual revival in the hearts of Christians that will lead to godly lifestyles and salvation for the many living in spiritual darkness.
Thursday January 21: Continue to pray the personnel job request for the Manzini region of Swaziland will soon be filled. Manzini is the largest city in Swaziland and presently very few attends a Baptist church.
Friday January 22: The Africa Support Center teams provide personnel, logistics, finance and communication support of local ministries including personal evangelism, cell groups, are also involved in local churches and chronological Bible storying training, youth and young adults outreach, and caring for widows, orphans and the homeless. Pray for team members to find a godly balance between support center responsibilities and ministry outside their offices.
Saturday January 23: PRAY FOR AMERICA:
Father God, while we struggle with many hard pressing issues in this country, we pray that you will continue to hold us close to you. During the trials of a struggling economy with so many without jobs, we ask that all people would find your love and let it change their lives from within their hearts. Watch over those who would lead this country and guide their paths and their words in order to glorify. Amen. www.presidentialprayerteam.org
Sunday January 24: Pray the Lord will burden the hearts of the Swazi church leaders to develop strong prayer relationships with Him. Pray prayer will be an important ministry in every Swazi Baptist church.
Monday January 25: Each year the Swazi Baptist churches have the opportunity to send their youth to the National Youth Camp in August. The First Baptist Church, Belton, Texas is praying concerning possibly leading the 2010 camp. Pray as this church seeks the Lord’s guidance in their decision. Begin now praying for the planning of this very special yearly event.
Tuesday January 26: Sarah Warren continues to have problems with tingling in her feet/toes. Blood tests have come back perfect. Today she has an appointment with her neurologist. Pray for wisdom for the doctors as they try to determine the cause of the tingling.
Wednesday January 27: Please join us in praying for co-laborers to come and join the Lord’s work in Swaziland through short-term volunteer teams, dedicated prayer warriors or full-time service.
Thursday January 28: Pray for protection for girls living in situations that are not safe and lead to sexual abuse and possible death. Pray the Swazi government will take notice of the plight of women and children and will seek to pass laws that will protect them. Pray for a safer place to live for children that will allow them to have a future.
Friday January 29: Pray for revival, holy living, clear evangelical message proclaimed and great unity among Christian leaders. Pray also the stronghold of witchcraft and ancestor worship as well as immorality will be broken within the Swazi churches and nation.
Saturday January 30: February 16-March 2, the First Baptist Church, Washington, NC is scheduled to send a volunteer team to the northeast section of the country. Pray for Jimmy, Joyce, Caren, Roger and Jimmy (team leader) as they spiritually prepare for the work the Lord has given them in Swaziland. Pray the soil will be prepared for rich blessings.
Sunday January 31: Pray Swazi Baptist pastors and laymen will see the need to start new groups/churches so many Swazis will come to know Jesus as their Savior. Pray barriers will be overcome and a church planting movement will start among the Swazi Baptist churches in Swaziland.
****************************
Thy Word is like a garden, Lord,
With flowers bright and fair;
And everyone who seeks may pluck
A lovely cluster there.
They Word is a like a deep, deep mine;
And jewels rich and rare
And hidden in its mighty depths
For every searcher there.
The Word is like a starry host;
A thousand rays of light
Are seen to guide the traveler,
And make His pathway bright.
Thy Word is like an armory,
Where soldiers may repair,
And find, for life’s long battle-day,
All needful weapons there.
O may I love Thy precious Word,
May I explore the mine,
May I its fragrant flowers glean,
May light upon me shine.
O may I find our armor there,
Thy Word my trusty sword;
I’ll learn to fight with every foe
The battle of the Lord.
(Edwin Hodder 1837-1904)
Wednesday, December 23, 2009
Myers Weekly Prayer Letter
Looking at Christmas…
www.presidentialprayerteam.org
(Reprinted with permission from the Associated Content)
In the early days of Christianity, Christmas was called the Feast of the Nativity. Pope Julius I chose December 25th in order to adopt and absorb other pagan festivals occurring during this time of year. By holding Christmas at the same time as Winter Solstice Festivals, church leaders increased the chances that the holiday would be more widely embraced. By the middle ages, Christianity had replaced most pagan practices. On Christmas, believers attended church, then celebrated in a drunken, carnival-like atmosphere.
It wasn’t until the 19th century that Americans began to embrace Christmas. Americans re-invented Christmas, and changed it from a raucous carnival holiday into a family-centered day of peace and nostalgia.
By the 1840s, newspapers were including special Christmas shopping sections during the holiday season. In 1841, the first step toward the full commercialization of Christmas began. In a Philadelphia department store, thousands of children and their parents lined up to see a life size replica of Santa Claus. The resulting boom in store sales sealed Christmas fate. In the early 1890s, the Salvation Army needed money to pay for the free Christmas meals they provided to needy families. They began dressing up unemployed men in Santa Clause suits and sending them into the streets of New York to solicit donations. Those familiar Salvation Army Santas have been ringing bells on the street corners of America ever since.
Santa Claus became synonymous with Christmas in the 1800s and the Christmas tree practice came to the US in the 1800s with the first German settlers in Pennsylvania.
With all the hype and tradition that encompasses Christmas in America, let us not forget why the holiday was created in the first place. It is a time of giving selflessly, and not necessarily material gifts. It is time to remember the birth of Jesus Christ and the ultimate gift that was given to humanity. Let us all focus on what is important this holiday season.
God make us aware that in Thy name
The Holy Christ Child humbly came
To live on earth and leave behind
New faith and hope for all mankind.
-Helen Steiner Rice
A gifted young teacher from Virginia by the name of Charlotte Diggs "Lottie" Moon came to Cartersville as the co-principal of the Cartersville Female Academy in June, 1871. At Cartersville Baptist Church (now First Baptist Church), Lottie assisted her pastor, Rev. R.B. Headden, with visits to those in need in the community. In February 1873, pastors and deacons from around the area met at the Oothcalooga Baptist Church near Adairsville to pray about sending missionaries. Rev. Headden prayed that at least one person from his congregation would answer the call. Lottie Moon sat on her usual front row pew the following Sunday. Through the sermon of Rev. Headden, she heard her call to go to China.For the next 39 years the people in Cartersville prayed and faithfully gave their money for Lottie Moon's work in China. On Christmas Day of 1881, families from Cartersville came together and left a special offering for her work, the first Lottie Moon Christmas Offering. In 1892 Lottie returned to Cartersville to greet old friends and former pupils, who called her "our own Miss Lottie Moon."Please pray the 175 million LMCO goal will be met this year so all the peoples of the world will have a chance to hear the gospel message. Please pray concerning how you will give to the 2009 Lottie Christmas Offering.
BLESSINGS !!
--We have just been given our clearance to return to Swaziland. Pray our tickets will be issued before the IMB takes their Christmas break.
--The printer signed off on the printing of the Swazi people prayer booklet on the 9th of December and the booklets were to be sent to our Baptist office in Jo’burg. What a wonderful Christmas present!! Pray the booklets will soon be in the hands of many prayer warriors for the Swazi people.
Christmas in Swaziland is not the elaborate affair we know in America. Christmas decorations may be seen in many of the shops but in most Swazi homes little is done to celebrate the Christmas season. There are no decorated Christmas trees and very little Christmas shopping is done. Since it is summer the weather is warm/hot and therefore we can’t anticipate a white Christmas. One thing that is done especially in the rural areas on Christmas Day is going from homestead to homestead to say “where’s my Christmas?” In response they are given a plate of food to eat. Christmas for many Swazis is the eating of special food they do not always have during the year. Sadder still is the fact that many in Swaziland do not know or understand the true meaning of Christmas.
This Christmas season, pray many Swazis will have a chance to understand the significance of the Christmas season. Pray also the King of Swaziland, his wives and children will hear the true Christmas story and will realize trusting in Jesus is the most precious gift of all.
SPECIAL CHRISTMAS WEEK PRAYER REQUESTS:
This week as you remember the “reason for the season” please pray for this special prayer requests:
-Please continue praying for our family members who are dealing with medical issues:
· My brother-in-law is slowly on the mend from his surgery.
· Wayne’s brother Terry as he continues to be in remission from his cancer.
· My nephew-in-law’s mother diagnosed with Lou Gehrig’s Disease.
-2010 begins with the arrival of a volunteer team (January 12-21) in the Shiselweni region from the Atlantic Association in North Carolina. Pray each team member will be prepared for his or her work in Swaziland. Pray the Lord will continue to lead volunteers to Swaziland and pray for continued harvest from their efforts.
-Pray for Steve, Monica, Lacie and Nathan Allen away from family this Christmas. May the they feel the Lord’s constant presence during the holiday season.
PRAYER FOR AMERICA: Father God, while we struggle with many hard pressing issues in this country, we pray that you will continue to hold us close to you. During the trials of a struggling economy with so many without jobs, we ask that all people would find your love and let it change their lives from within their hearts. Watch over those who would lead this country and guide their paths and their words in order to glorify you. Amen www.presidentialprayerteam.org
**Please Note: Upon our return to Swaziland we will not able to use the africaonline email address. Please discontinue the use of this address and send emails to swazibam@shelbywireless.net or wmyers@shelbywireless.net. Thank You!
www.presidentialprayerteam.org
(Reprinted with permission from the Associated Content)
In the early days of Christianity, Christmas was called the Feast of the Nativity. Pope Julius I chose December 25th in order to adopt and absorb other pagan festivals occurring during this time of year. By holding Christmas at the same time as Winter Solstice Festivals, church leaders increased the chances that the holiday would be more widely embraced. By the middle ages, Christianity had replaced most pagan practices. On Christmas, believers attended church, then celebrated in a drunken, carnival-like atmosphere.
It wasn’t until the 19th century that Americans began to embrace Christmas. Americans re-invented Christmas, and changed it from a raucous carnival holiday into a family-centered day of peace and nostalgia.
By the 1840s, newspapers were including special Christmas shopping sections during the holiday season. In 1841, the first step toward the full commercialization of Christmas began. In a Philadelphia department store, thousands of children and their parents lined up to see a life size replica of Santa Claus. The resulting boom in store sales sealed Christmas fate. In the early 1890s, the Salvation Army needed money to pay for the free Christmas meals they provided to needy families. They began dressing up unemployed men in Santa Clause suits and sending them into the streets of New York to solicit donations. Those familiar Salvation Army Santas have been ringing bells on the street corners of America ever since.
Santa Claus became synonymous with Christmas in the 1800s and the Christmas tree practice came to the US in the 1800s with the first German settlers in Pennsylvania.
With all the hype and tradition that encompasses Christmas in America, let us not forget why the holiday was created in the first place. It is a time of giving selflessly, and not necessarily material gifts. It is time to remember the birth of Jesus Christ and the ultimate gift that was given to humanity. Let us all focus on what is important this holiday season.
God make us aware that in Thy name
The Holy Christ Child humbly came
To live on earth and leave behind
New faith and hope for all mankind.
-Helen Steiner Rice
A gifted young teacher from Virginia by the name of Charlotte Diggs "Lottie" Moon came to Cartersville as the co-principal of the Cartersville Female Academy in June, 1871. At Cartersville Baptist Church (now First Baptist Church), Lottie assisted her pastor, Rev. R.B. Headden, with visits to those in need in the community. In February 1873, pastors and deacons from around the area met at the Oothcalooga Baptist Church near Adairsville to pray about sending missionaries. Rev. Headden prayed that at least one person from his congregation would answer the call. Lottie Moon sat on her usual front row pew the following Sunday. Through the sermon of Rev. Headden, she heard her call to go to China.For the next 39 years the people in Cartersville prayed and faithfully gave their money for Lottie Moon's work in China. On Christmas Day of 1881, families from Cartersville came together and left a special offering for her work, the first Lottie Moon Christmas Offering. In 1892 Lottie returned to Cartersville to greet old friends and former pupils, who called her "our own Miss Lottie Moon."Please pray the 175 million LMCO goal will be met this year so all the peoples of the world will have a chance to hear the gospel message. Please pray concerning how you will give to the 2009 Lottie Christmas Offering.
BLESSINGS !!
--We have just been given our clearance to return to Swaziland. Pray our tickets will be issued before the IMB takes their Christmas break.
--The printer signed off on the printing of the Swazi people prayer booklet on the 9th of December and the booklets were to be sent to our Baptist office in Jo’burg. What a wonderful Christmas present!! Pray the booklets will soon be in the hands of many prayer warriors for the Swazi people.
Christmas in Swaziland is not the elaborate affair we know in America. Christmas decorations may be seen in many of the shops but in most Swazi homes little is done to celebrate the Christmas season. There are no decorated Christmas trees and very little Christmas shopping is done. Since it is summer the weather is warm/hot and therefore we can’t anticipate a white Christmas. One thing that is done especially in the rural areas on Christmas Day is going from homestead to homestead to say “where’s my Christmas?” In response they are given a plate of food to eat. Christmas for many Swazis is the eating of special food they do not always have during the year. Sadder still is the fact that many in Swaziland do not know or understand the true meaning of Christmas.
This Christmas season, pray many Swazis will have a chance to understand the significance of the Christmas season. Pray also the King of Swaziland, his wives and children will hear the true Christmas story and will realize trusting in Jesus is the most precious gift of all.
SPECIAL CHRISTMAS WEEK PRAYER REQUESTS:
This week as you remember the “reason for the season” please pray for this special prayer requests:
-Please continue praying for our family members who are dealing with medical issues:
· My brother-in-law is slowly on the mend from his surgery.
· Wayne’s brother Terry as he continues to be in remission from his cancer.
· My nephew-in-law’s mother diagnosed with Lou Gehrig’s Disease.
-2010 begins with the arrival of a volunteer team (January 12-21) in the Shiselweni region from the Atlantic Association in North Carolina. Pray each team member will be prepared for his or her work in Swaziland. Pray the Lord will continue to lead volunteers to Swaziland and pray for continued harvest from their efforts.
-Pray for Steve, Monica, Lacie and Nathan Allen away from family this Christmas. May the they feel the Lord’s constant presence during the holiday season.
PRAYER FOR AMERICA: Father God, while we struggle with many hard pressing issues in this country, we pray that you will continue to hold us close to you. During the trials of a struggling economy with so many without jobs, we ask that all people would find your love and let it change their lives from within their hearts. Watch over those who would lead this country and guide their paths and their words in order to glorify you. Amen www.presidentialprayerteam.org
**Please Note: Upon our return to Swaziland we will not able to use the africaonline email address. Please discontinue the use of this address and send emails to swazibam@shelbywireless.net or wmyers@shelbywireless.net. Thank You!
Tuesday, December 15, 2009
Myers Weekly Prayer Letter
This week we will continue sorting and packing and getting ready for our departure for Swaziland. Today, we had our cholesterol check (lab work) done and hopefully will soon receive our clearance to return to the field. Please pray the clearance will come before Christmas (a Christmas present).
Happy Birthday to Wayne on the 20th of December.
Also, we will celebrate our wedding anniversary on the 21st of December.
Sunday the 20th of December(pm) we will share with the Corner Stone Baptist Church, Lexington, Ky. This is our last scheduled engagement. Pray there will be a feeling of interest and joy in hearing what God is doing in Swaziland as well as the rest of the world.
The Poe family volunteer team (Greg, Hannah, Joshua-David and Elijah) arrived in Swaziland on the 12th of December and began ministering to the Swazis in the Hhohho region of Swaziland. Please pray their time in Swaziland will be a time of wonderful blessings and fellowship with Swazi friends.
SWAZILAND BAPTIST NATIONAL WOMEN’S RETREAT is scheduled for December 17-19, 2009 at the Manzini Baptist Church. Hannah Poe, former missionary with the Swazi Team is the guest speaker. Please pray for a wonderful time of fellowship and spiritual learning. Pray for Hannah’s spiritual preparation as she comes to lead this retreat.
--Continue to pray for the printing of the prayer booklet, “So That Christ Might Dwell in Their Hearts,” Swazi people prayer booklet.
MEDICAL PRAYER REQUESTS:
-My brother-in-law, Gary Rutledge (Pete) who underwent surgery (fusion of vertebra) is now home!! Thank you for praying. He still does not have complete feeling in hands and arms. Please pray for Pete’s complete recovery from his surgery. Pray he will soon recover the feeling in his hands and will be 100% improved.
-Pray for my niece’s husband’s mother (Debbie Miracle) diagnosed with Lou Gehrig’s Disease. Pray for the Lord’s strength and courage during this difficult time. Pray for the family as they continue to deal with Debbie’s illness.
--Wayne’s brother, Terry’s cancer currently is in remission but he has been told the cancer will return and must have follow-up tests every three months. He is scheduled to have his next series of tests before Christmas. Please pray for Terry and his wife Darlene as they continue to deal with the effects of the cancer and the general prognosis. Pray Terry will continue to be in remission.
In 2009 the Swazi Team praised the Lord for the many volunteer teams that ministered to the Swazi people through evangelism, youth/children ministries, medical clinics, True Love Waits and other AIDS teachings as well as the building of relationships between Swazis and Americans. 2010 begins with the arrival of a volunteer team (January 12-21) in the Shiselweni region from the Atlantic Association in North Carolina. Pray each team member will be prepared for his or her work in Swaziland. Pray the Lord will continue to lead volunteers to Swaziland and pray for continued harvest from their efforts.
PRAYER FOR AMERICA: Heavenly Father, I pray for those who lead our country. Give them wisdom, courage, compassion, and faith. Today, I lift up those to whom you entrusted the authority over this great nation. May they turn to You for guidance and for strength in all that they do. Amen www.presidentialprayerteam.org
PRAY FOR THE COWBOY RODEO CHURCH(Taylorsville, Ky.)
Pray for our Christmas Fellowship scheduled for December 20th. We will be meeting at 6pm. There will be singing Christmas Carols during worship. I would like to invite you to experience first-hand what God is doing in and through Rodeo Cowboy Church.
Pray as we contempt finding a warmer place to meet in Mt. Washington or Taylorsville.
Pray as a core group is developed. We need to begin a Bible study ministry, either Sunday School or home groups. Pray that we will be able to begin our small group Bible study with Experiencing God.
Ideas for Using Lottie Moon @ WorkBefore Lottie Moon ever saw China’s mission field, she helped its missionaries. On the condition of anonymity, Lottie and her sister Edmonia gave $45 in gold annually to support Martha Foster Crawford who taught at a school in Tengchow. People are still waiting to hear about Jesus in China and around the world. Put Lottie Moon @ Work in your church!
Quick Links (Lottiemoon@work)
Where the money goes
Cooperative Program
Lottie Moon offering
Human needs ministries
More giving opportunities
Please pray concerning how you will give to the 2009 Lottie Christmas Offering.
In the little village of Bethlehem, there lay a Child one day, and the sky was bright with a holy light o’er the place where Jesus lay. Allelula! O how the angels sang. Allelula how it rang! And the sky was bright with a holy light, ‘twas the birthday of the King.
‘Twas a humble birthplace, but O how much God gave to us that day. From the manger bed what a path has led, what a perfect, holy way. Allelula! O how the angels sang. Allelula! How it rang! And the sky was bright with a holy light, ‘twas the birthday of the King.
Happy Birthday to Wayne on the 20th of December.
Also, we will celebrate our wedding anniversary on the 21st of December.
Sunday the 20th of December(pm) we will share with the Corner Stone Baptist Church, Lexington, Ky. This is our last scheduled engagement. Pray there will be a feeling of interest and joy in hearing what God is doing in Swaziland as well as the rest of the world.
The Poe family volunteer team (Greg, Hannah, Joshua-David and Elijah) arrived in Swaziland on the 12th of December and began ministering to the Swazis in the Hhohho region of Swaziland. Please pray their time in Swaziland will be a time of wonderful blessings and fellowship with Swazi friends.
SWAZILAND BAPTIST NATIONAL WOMEN’S RETREAT is scheduled for December 17-19, 2009 at the Manzini Baptist Church. Hannah Poe, former missionary with the Swazi Team is the guest speaker. Please pray for a wonderful time of fellowship and spiritual learning. Pray for Hannah’s spiritual preparation as she comes to lead this retreat.
--Continue to pray for the printing of the prayer booklet, “So That Christ Might Dwell in Their Hearts,” Swazi people prayer booklet.
MEDICAL PRAYER REQUESTS:
-My brother-in-law, Gary Rutledge (Pete) who underwent surgery (fusion of vertebra) is now home!! Thank you for praying. He still does not have complete feeling in hands and arms. Please pray for Pete’s complete recovery from his surgery. Pray he will soon recover the feeling in his hands and will be 100% improved.
-Pray for my niece’s husband’s mother (Debbie Miracle) diagnosed with Lou Gehrig’s Disease. Pray for the Lord’s strength and courage during this difficult time. Pray for the family as they continue to deal with Debbie’s illness.
--Wayne’s brother, Terry’s cancer currently is in remission but he has been told the cancer will return and must have follow-up tests every three months. He is scheduled to have his next series of tests before Christmas. Please pray for Terry and his wife Darlene as they continue to deal with the effects of the cancer and the general prognosis. Pray Terry will continue to be in remission.
In 2009 the Swazi Team praised the Lord for the many volunteer teams that ministered to the Swazi people through evangelism, youth/children ministries, medical clinics, True Love Waits and other AIDS teachings as well as the building of relationships between Swazis and Americans. 2010 begins with the arrival of a volunteer team (January 12-21) in the Shiselweni region from the Atlantic Association in North Carolina. Pray each team member will be prepared for his or her work in Swaziland. Pray the Lord will continue to lead volunteers to Swaziland and pray for continued harvest from their efforts.
PRAYER FOR AMERICA: Heavenly Father, I pray for those who lead our country. Give them wisdom, courage, compassion, and faith. Today, I lift up those to whom you entrusted the authority over this great nation. May they turn to You for guidance and for strength in all that they do. Amen www.presidentialprayerteam.org
PRAY FOR THE COWBOY RODEO CHURCH(Taylorsville, Ky.)
Pray for our Christmas Fellowship scheduled for December 20th. We will be meeting at 6pm. There will be singing Christmas Carols during worship. I would like to invite you to experience first-hand what God is doing in and through Rodeo Cowboy Church.
Pray as we contempt finding a warmer place to meet in Mt. Washington or Taylorsville.
Pray as a core group is developed. We need to begin a Bible study ministry, either Sunday School or home groups. Pray that we will be able to begin our small group Bible study with Experiencing God.
Ideas for Using Lottie Moon @ WorkBefore Lottie Moon ever saw China’s mission field, she helped its missionaries. On the condition of anonymity, Lottie and her sister Edmonia gave $45 in gold annually to support Martha Foster Crawford who taught at a school in Tengchow. People are still waiting to hear about Jesus in China and around the world. Put Lottie Moon @ Work in your church!
Quick Links (Lottiemoon@work)
Where the money goes
Cooperative Program
Lottie Moon offering
Human needs ministries
More giving opportunities
Please pray concerning how you will give to the 2009 Lottie Christmas Offering.
In the little village of Bethlehem, there lay a Child one day, and the sky was bright with a holy light o’er the place where Jesus lay. Allelula! O how the angels sang. Allelula how it rang! And the sky was bright with a holy light, ‘twas the birthday of the King.
‘Twas a humble birthplace, but O how much God gave to us that day. From the manger bed what a path has led, what a perfect, holy way. Allelula! O how the angels sang. Allelula! How it rang! And the sky was bright with a holy light, ‘twas the birthday of the King.
Tuesday, December 8, 2009
Myers Weekly Prayer Letter
WALKING IN THE WINTER WONDERLAND!!
This morning we awoke to a dusting of snow on the ground and in the air. Winter has arrived in Kentucky.
Thank you for praying as we shared with the congregation at the Pleasant Heights Baptist Church(Columbia, Tenn.) yesterday. A medical volunteer team from this church ministered in the Shiselweni region last March. We also were acquainted with the pastor and his wife and enjoyed our time with friends old and new!!
THIS WEEK’S EVENTS:
--Wednesday we are scheduled to share with the Highlands Baptist Church (Wayne’s home church) in Lexington, Ky.
--Saturday we will participate in a Mission Celebration in Charlestown, Ind. (4:00-7:00pm).
--We will share and worship with the Ormsby Heights Baptist Church in Louisville on Sunday morning.
Pray for these special events and for us as we share concerning the work the Lord has given us in Swaziland.
The Poe family (Greg, Hannah, Joshua-David and Elijah) volunteer team arrives this week in Swaziland. The family served in Swaziland for two years (2005-2007). Pray for their flight to Swaziland will be uneventful and pray for their ministry with Swazi friends. Hannah is the main speaker for the National Women’s Retreat (December 17-19).
SWAZILAND BAPTIST NATIONAL WOMEN’S RETREAT is scheduled for December 17-19, 2009 at the Manzini Baptist Church. Hannah Poe, former missionary with the Swazi Team is the guest speaker. Please pray for a wonderful time of fellowship and spiritual learning. Pray for Hannah’s spiritual preparation as she comes to lead this retreat.
This week’s update on the prayer booklet, “So That Christ May Dwell In Their Hearts”:
Proofs were sent last week for the booklet. Corrections were made and the printing is to be completed by the 11th of December. Please pray the booklet will indeed be printed by the 11th of December. Pray the prayer booklet will soon be in the hands of many prayer warriors for the Swazi people.
MEDICAL PRAYER REQUESTS:
--Thank you for praying for my brother-in-law, Gary Rutledge (Pete) who underwent surgery (fusion of vertebra) before Thanksgiving and did not have feeling in his hands. This week some of the feeling began to return. Please pray for Pete’s complete recovery from his surgery. Pray he will soon recover the feeling in his hands and will be 100% improved.
-Pray for my niece’s husband’s mother (Debbie Miracle) diagnosed with Lou Gehrig’s Disease. Pray for the Lord’s strength and courage during this difficult time. Pray for the family as they continue to deal with Debbie’s illness.
--Wayne’s brother, Terry’s cancer currently is in remission but he has been told the cancer will return and must have follow-up tests every three months. He is scheduled to have his next series of tests before Christmas. Please pray for Terry and his wife Darlene as they continue to deal with the effects of the cancer and the general prognosis. Pray Terry will continue to be in remission.
In 2009 the Swazi Team praised the Lord for the many volunteer teams that ministered to the Swazi people through evangelism, youth/children ministries, medical clinics, True Love Waits and other AIDS teachings as well as the building of relationships between Swazis and Americans. 2010 begins with the arrival of a volunteer team (January 12-21) in the Shiselweni region from the Atlantic Association in North Carolina. Pray each team member will be prepared for his or her work in Swaziland. Pray the Lord will continue to lead volunteers to Swaziland and pray for continued harvest from their efforts.
IMB GLOBAL PRAYER STRATEGY:-Please continue to pray for the 178 missionaries and children who are presently going through their field orientation at our learning center. They will complete their training on Dec. 11. May these closing days at the learning center be especially blessed.-Forty-nine new missionary candidates will be in Richmond for their Candidate Interview Conference, December 13-18. Thank the Lord for calling out laborers into His overseas harvest fields. Pray for Him to give clear guidance to these candidates as they interact with IMB staff during these very important days.
LOTTIE MOON @WORK…
HOW MUCH DOES IT COST TO SUPPORT A MISSIONARY?
$40,931.64 a year
$3,410.97 a month
$787.15 a week
$112.14 a day
$4.67 an hour
$.08 a minute
(**Reported June 2009. Support includes housing, food, children’s education, medical expenses, retirement and more.)
Every penny given to Lottie Moon is used to support Southern Baptist missionaries as they share the Gospel overseas. The offering represents 54 percent of the International Mission Board’s total income.
Find dollar examples of how your gifts are used, including stories, photos and videos at www.LottieMoon@work.
Please pray the 175 million LMCO goal will be met this year so all the peoples of the world will have a chance to hear the gospel message.
Christmas is more than a day
at the end of the year,
More than a season of joy and
good cheer.
Christmas is really God’s pattern for living
To be followed all year by unselfish giving.
--Helen Steiner Rice
This morning we awoke to a dusting of snow on the ground and in the air. Winter has arrived in Kentucky.
Thank you for praying as we shared with the congregation at the Pleasant Heights Baptist Church(Columbia, Tenn.) yesterday. A medical volunteer team from this church ministered in the Shiselweni region last March. We also were acquainted with the pastor and his wife and enjoyed our time with friends old and new!!
THIS WEEK’S EVENTS:
--Wednesday we are scheduled to share with the Highlands Baptist Church (Wayne’s home church) in Lexington, Ky.
--Saturday we will participate in a Mission Celebration in Charlestown, Ind. (4:00-7:00pm).
--We will share and worship with the Ormsby Heights Baptist Church in Louisville on Sunday morning.
Pray for these special events and for us as we share concerning the work the Lord has given us in Swaziland.
The Poe family (Greg, Hannah, Joshua-David and Elijah) volunteer team arrives this week in Swaziland. The family served in Swaziland for two years (2005-2007). Pray for their flight to Swaziland will be uneventful and pray for their ministry with Swazi friends. Hannah is the main speaker for the National Women’s Retreat (December 17-19).
SWAZILAND BAPTIST NATIONAL WOMEN’S RETREAT is scheduled for December 17-19, 2009 at the Manzini Baptist Church. Hannah Poe, former missionary with the Swazi Team is the guest speaker. Please pray for a wonderful time of fellowship and spiritual learning. Pray for Hannah’s spiritual preparation as she comes to lead this retreat.
This week’s update on the prayer booklet, “So That Christ May Dwell In Their Hearts”:
Proofs were sent last week for the booklet. Corrections were made and the printing is to be completed by the 11th of December. Please pray the booklet will indeed be printed by the 11th of December. Pray the prayer booklet will soon be in the hands of many prayer warriors for the Swazi people.
MEDICAL PRAYER REQUESTS:
--Thank you for praying for my brother-in-law, Gary Rutledge (Pete) who underwent surgery (fusion of vertebra) before Thanksgiving and did not have feeling in his hands. This week some of the feeling began to return. Please pray for Pete’s complete recovery from his surgery. Pray he will soon recover the feeling in his hands and will be 100% improved.
-Pray for my niece’s husband’s mother (Debbie Miracle) diagnosed with Lou Gehrig’s Disease. Pray for the Lord’s strength and courage during this difficult time. Pray for the family as they continue to deal with Debbie’s illness.
--Wayne’s brother, Terry’s cancer currently is in remission but he has been told the cancer will return and must have follow-up tests every three months. He is scheduled to have his next series of tests before Christmas. Please pray for Terry and his wife Darlene as they continue to deal with the effects of the cancer and the general prognosis. Pray Terry will continue to be in remission.
In 2009 the Swazi Team praised the Lord for the many volunteer teams that ministered to the Swazi people through evangelism, youth/children ministries, medical clinics, True Love Waits and other AIDS teachings as well as the building of relationships between Swazis and Americans. 2010 begins with the arrival of a volunteer team (January 12-21) in the Shiselweni region from the Atlantic Association in North Carolina. Pray each team member will be prepared for his or her work in Swaziland. Pray the Lord will continue to lead volunteers to Swaziland and pray for continued harvest from their efforts.
IMB GLOBAL PRAYER STRATEGY:-Please continue to pray for the 178 missionaries and children who are presently going through their field orientation at our learning center. They will complete their training on Dec. 11. May these closing days at the learning center be especially blessed.-Forty-nine new missionary candidates will be in Richmond for their Candidate Interview Conference, December 13-18. Thank the Lord for calling out laborers into His overseas harvest fields. Pray for Him to give clear guidance to these candidates as they interact with IMB staff during these very important days.
LOTTIE MOON @WORK…
HOW MUCH DOES IT COST TO SUPPORT A MISSIONARY?
$40,931.64 a year
$3,410.97 a month
$787.15 a week
$112.14 a day
$4.67 an hour
$.08 a minute
(**Reported June 2009. Support includes housing, food, children’s education, medical expenses, retirement and more.)
Every penny given to Lottie Moon is used to support Southern Baptist missionaries as they share the Gospel overseas. The offering represents 54 percent of the International Mission Board’s total income.
Find dollar examples of how your gifts are used, including stories, photos and videos at www.LottieMoon@work.
Please pray the 175 million LMCO goal will be met this year so all the peoples of the world will have a chance to hear the gospel message.
Christmas is more than a day
at the end of the year,
More than a season of joy and
good cheer.
Christmas is really God’s pattern for living
To be followed all year by unselfish giving.
--Helen Steiner Rice
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