Sunshine After Rain

Quadrantids

2012-01-13T11:51:00.000-06:00

In case you think I have gone off the deeper end (I've been in high water for some time now) and started making up words, rest assured I haven't. Ten days ago I was watching my local weather forecast when the meteorologist started talking about a once in a lifetime sighting. "Quadrantids will be remarkably viewable tonight. The sky is clear and you will be able to see around 100 meteors coming through earth's atmosphere per hour." A quadra-what? An historic meteor shower sight that very night! But...

It would be best to see around 3:00AM!

Ahhh, would I wake up? It was a pretty cold evening. And then I remembered one night 12 years ago in Siberia. All my life I have longed to see the Northern Lights. Siberia seemed like a pretty good place to catch a glimpse. My Russian interpreter and I asked the hotel clerk if we would be able to see them. He laughed and said it was too late in the year (March), and that it had to be really cold and very specific atmospheric conditions. That day as we visited the orphanage there was a WHITE OUT blizzard! It was 70 degrees BELOW ZERO - those sounded like good conditions to us. Alas, the clerk said it happens really late...

3:00 AM

We went to sleep and set our alarms. When the bell rang we were all snuggled down in the warmth of the room. It was so cold outside the our double-paned glass window was a solid sheet of ice INSIDE. We laid there in the dark and discussed our frigid options. "But what IF they can be seen, and we just don't want to make the effort to look?

We decided to bundle up and brave the Siberian night. The hotel clerk woke up when he heard us bundled bumblers coming down the stairs. He laughed (again) when we said what we were doing. We asked him where to look. He assured us - if they could be seen, there would be no spot in the sky that we didn't see the brilliant display.

We went out, we looked up

No Aurora Borealis. Only a very cold, ink black sky with a zillion stars.

We went back inside, back to the warmth of our Russian wool blankets and steam heat and slept. We were disappointed to be sure, but before we went out, we both agreed that we wanted our Creator to know we were ready, willing and WATCHING. Even if we didn't see the display we knew He knew we were looking for Him.

I set my alarm for 3:00am and bundled up again. It wasn't 70 below zero that night in Dallas, but again I looked up and

nothing.

I live right in the middle of a big city with far too many lights obscuring the night sky to see much of anything past the moon. But by golly, I was willing to look.

Today, I'm setting off for a short drive north of Dallas to a retreat center. Later this evening I'll be joined by over 20 volunteers and 8 of the Wounded Warriors and their families coming up from San Antonio! Tomorrow 15 more local families affected by disabilities will join us for a full day of fun and respite sponsored by Victory Flows and Rejoicing Spirits ministries. We'll close the day with a dance to rival Hollywood's Dancing with the Stars!

I don't know what they're expecting? I was surprised they wanted to drive so far for such a short weekend. But our God is ALWAYS at work. He is always actively pursuing and reaching out for His children. I am praying they "see" the Creators hand of brilliance in every smile, hug, and craft. I'm still eager to see

even that which I cannot see

"Now faith is the belief in things hoped for as yet unseen."

Looking up with a smile
In His service
Charlynn

To help offset the financial costs of the continued work of Sunshine After Rain Ministries, visit our website to make an online tax deductible donation:

www.sunshineafterrain.org

Write it All Down...

2011-12-31T14:19:00.000-06:00

"...each word dependable and accurate." Revelation 21:5 The Message

The last day of the year finds me reading Revelation and the final pages of His living Word. I admit I am always excited by the ending. Though the words are familiar, when evil is banished and victory reigns, I get chills thinking about those final chapters of the present world's history. I'm looking forward to the day when the Father HIMSELF, will wipe away every tear and take away all the pain.

I've cried my fair share the past year, but I've also seen and experienced enough real human suffering, to appreciate when ALL that will be over.

When I arrive at a place far from home and way beyond a comfortable zone, I don't need to tell any proverbial "Toto" I am not in Kansas anymore. The filth, the stench and the unparalled poverty keeps me quiet. I'm often asked "how" I can do the things I do, see the things I see, work and walk among the wounded of the world. I know it's a supernatural gift that allows me to survive and thrive, to reap and to sow in the Harvest Fields of the King I love and serve.
The last day of the year millions of eyes will look upward to a vast display of fireworks celebrating the end of the old and the beginning of the new. When I see video footage of the crowds, I am often reminded of the verse, "Look up for your redemption draweth nigh." (Luke 21:28) His Word tells us the WHOLE world will be looking up and witnessing His grand Second Coming. "Look, He is coming in the clouds" (Revelation 1:7) I am sure it will be more spectacular than any New Year's Eve fireworks display! It will be brighter and definitely louder with the heavenly hosts all singing "Glory, glory, glory, Who is, Who was, and Who is to come!"

"And tell them, 'Yes, I'm on My way'..." Revelation 22:7 The Message

We have been dependable messengers of the Good News the past 365 days. We will be dependable until the final day of His return. The clock ending the tax year of 2011 is ticking, but the greater clock of opportunity to share the Gospel is ticking as well. There IS an end to our time on earth, and whether we are "caught up" or are "put to rest" the story's end remains unchanged. The King is coming and before He left He commanded us to, "GO, make disciples of ALL nations."

Take a moment to consider the lost and don't lose an opportunity to share the grace and mercy of Christ.

"It is true that we have lost opportunities that will never return, but God can transform this destructive anxiety into a constructive thoughtfulness for the future. Let the past rest, but let it rest in the sweet embrace of Christ." Oswald Chambers My Utmost for His Highest: December 31

Maranatha

To make a tax deductible year-end donation online, visit our website:
www.sunshineafterrain.org

Make sure your checks are postmarked by midnight.
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I'll Have a Blue Christmas

2011-12-26T12:15:00.000-06:00

The week before Christmas I had an opportunity to see an advance screening of the movie "Blue Like Jazz." Based on the best-selling Donald Miller book of the same name, I was curious to see how they would translate the themes of the written word to screen.

"Blue Like Jazz," (both the book and the movie) reflects on issues of life and faith that seem unresolved. Our life, like jazz, appears as a tune played without a defined melody, music improvised by those participating in its creation.

The author had a difficult time working with the producer and screenwriter of the film. So difficult in fact that he wrote a book about THAT (his other book being made into a movie) entitled "A Million Miles in a Thousand Years." His trouble came as the screenwriters were adapting his life "story" to shorten it and make it into a better film version.

"So I guess I should have lived a more interesting life." Donald Miller in A Million Miles

The Christmas season with all the trimmings and trappings will still be visible in the malls across America for perhaps another week. As believers, I know we hope and pray, "the Christmas spirit" lives each day of the year ahead of us. The Spirit of THE gift, God's Only Son, treasured for all that His birth represents and redeems.

"For those who claim His Name, Christmas heralds this luminous truth: The God of Jesus Christ is our absolute future." Brennan Manning from Lion and Lamb

I want to live a more interesting life in the coming year. But I know the reality is most days are uneventful, and like the music form called jazz - are unresolved; no big revelations or conclusions before I close my eyes and call it a day.

My life of faith is recorded but not scripted. I know each breath and hair on my head is numbered, but assigned as co-creator, I have the freedom to improvise on a melody throughout the day and participate in salvation's song. My inspiration isn't an unresolved musical phrase but the finality of the Author and perfecter of my faith's last words from the cross,

"It is finished."

"Relax,everything's going to be all right; rest, everything's coming together: open your hearts, love is on the way!" Jude 2 The Message

I can say with 98% certainty my life will not be made into a movie, nor will I write a book about the experience of turning my life into a film version. However, I can say with 100% certainty my name is written in the Lamb's Book of Life and I intend to spend each day I have left telling other's how to make sure their name is written there too!

It's the end of another year and contributors are making decisions on amounts for "year-end" giving. Every day, I receive an appeal for "critical funds" and I confess I feel like every day I'm making that same appeal in one form or another. I toss aside all the big organizations mass marketed mailings, but somehow take comfort that all non-profits are in "critical" financial condition.

Together we are writing a song that has the heavens rejoicing! As the ministry shares the gospel around the world and sinners repent, a party bigger than New Year's Eve in Times Square erupts. It IS like jazz, each of us playing our own part, together in harmony, goers, givers, and prayers.

That makes for an interesting life, and a beautiful melody.

Help us end on a high note

With a song and a smile

In His service

To make a tax-deductible year-end donation online visit our website:

www.sunshineafterrain.org

Where in the World...

2011-12-06T10:00:00.000-06:00

...IS Thessalonica?

That was the question I asked myself this morning (had to check to make sure it was in Greece) as I was reading the apostle Paul's letter to the community of believers.

"Do you have any idea how very homesick we became for you, dear friends? Even though it hadn't been that long ... we tried our very best to get back to see you. You can't imagine how much we missed you! 1 Thessalonians 2:17 The Message

Those words were most appropriate for the start of my day. For the past few weeks, I have been making arrangements with many of the Wounded Warriors and their families for a "special" visit. The scheduled reunion last month was postponed and I realized just how much I missed them! And when I started contacting them, it turns out they miss me too!

"So when we couldn't stand being separated from you any longer..." 1 Thessalonians 3:1 The Message

Paul had to send Timothy to visit his friends, but thanks be to God, we live in a day and age where travel doesn't involve camels or ships that can wreck on the rocks! This morning I'm heading down to San Antonio with Cheryl Hood, the founder of Victory Flows (a respite ministry for families affected by disability). We will spend the next several days sharing with Wounded Warriors who have participated in the Joni and Friends past retreats.

"What would be an adequate thanksgiving to offer God for all the joy we experience before Him because of you?" 1 Thessalonians 3:9 The Message

This past Thanksgiving I feasted with a glue gun, not gravy, tinsel and trimmings not turkey, and plenty of pretties instead of pumpkin pie. With the help of a few friends we made hats, hats and more hats to share with the soldiers and their families! I had the freedom to do so because thousands of faithful men and women enlist in the military to secure my country, and my choices. I am free, feast or famine, because there are people willing to die to defend us.

Hard economic times have greatly impacted the ministry. Every day, I receive appeals of all kinds, from museums to nationally known ministries. Everyone has felt the crunch. And as bad as it is for Sunshine After Rain, I still fully understand and appreciate there are men and women carrying 80lbs worth of gear in 120+ degree heat, in an desert of hatred and animosity just so I can sit in the comfort of my apartment in America and do what the Lord asks me to do. God blesses me AND America through those willing to pay the price.

"May God our Father Himself and our Master Jesus clear the road to you! May the Master pour on the love so it fills your lives and splashes over on everyone around you, just as it does from us to you." 1 Thessalonians 3:11 The Message

Freely smiling in His service
Charlynn

To make a tax deductible donation online, please visit our website:
www.sunshineafterrain.org

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Now there was room...

2011-10-27T01:57:00.000-05:00

I have always liked the passage in Matthew where Jesus gets mad and clears out the Temple.

It's the kind of Jesus I think we are all waiting on to show up. The One that will set all right with the world; rip open His Jesus togo and expose the Big G (instead of the S for Superman it will be like Super God). He might say something like "Truth, justice and yes folks The American Way." Well, maybe not that part but nonetheless - we need, want and really wait for a hero to come in and save the day. Save us without 9-9-9 or some complicated healthcare reform we just want things fixed and frankly, at this point we are finally realizing we're in one "helluva" mess only God can fix.

"Jesus went straight to the Temple and threw out everyone who had set up shop, buying and selling... "My house was designated a house of prayer; you've made it a hangout for thieves."

That's a Texas kinda Jesus, kicking him some b--- and taking names! Heck, He probably had a pair of cowboy boots!

But this time when I read the passage after I adjusted my b-kicking boots and had offered up a few "Go God" exclamations like I had been at the World Series and was bring the runner home, I kept reading the passage.

After Jesus kicks the bad guys out, and sets things right it says:

"...Now there was room for the blind and crippled to get in. They came to Jesus..."

We see what's wrong with that picture NOW we get it. Our churches are filled with coffeehouses, bookstores, youth meeting rooms and all those "things" and programs are worthy, wonderful and great. But is our local Temple (we call church) so full of socializing we're at risk of excluding? Excluding the people who need to see Jesus and be saved? to be healed?...

...and He healed them." Matthew 21:12-14 The Message

The Co-Director, the Director's assistant and I left Thousand Oaks later than planned. They didn't plan on transporting a lot until they saw the 100 pounds of clown paraphernalia, 30 Hawaiian luala shirts I had shipped or what that would look like traveling with three people.

What can I say? It looked like a clown car! We had packed every nook and cranny, under the seats were rolled up blankets, the back had luggage, coconuts, umbrellas, beaches in a bottle and all manner of fun the next dew days were going to take us.

Tonight we came together as a team. We trained, we listened and we prayed. Tonight we laid down our fear and anxiety at the throne. We cleared the Temple inside our hearts of self-sufficienctcy and made room.

But really what I saw in a fresh way in the passage was "who" there was now room for: "now there was room for the lame and the blind to come and have a special touch of Jesus! We are expecting that kind of touch for these families the kind of healing they need. We have unloaded the supplies, the costumes, the program materials but more critically, we have emptied our burdens and cares on the One who is so careful towards us!

Please remember to pray for the 9 families coming. God has something extraordinary for them to "taste and see that He is good and He is who He says He is.

Emptying with a smile
Charlynn

Please remember financial support for the ministry. Our donations have reached an historic low. I take that to mean something historic is about to happen!

To make a donation online: visit or website www.sunshineefterrain,org

E Ticket Ride

2011-10-19T17:09:00.000-05:00

If you've ever been to Disneyland or Magic Kingdom there is a good possibility you're familiar with the term "E Ticket Ride." If you haven't and you're wondering if I am referring to some new form of ticketless air travel let me give you Wikipedia's definition:

The phrase E Ticket (or E ticket ride) refers to an unusually interesting, thrilling or expensive experience. It derives from the admission system used at Disneyland theme parks before 1982, in which the E ticket admitted the bearer to the newest, most advanced, and/or most popular rides and attractions.

And in a whole lot less words "fun with a capital F!"

Unusually interesting and thrilling - that's the adventure I am preparing to embark on over the next two weeks. Of course it's a great deal different than Disneyland, but the first part of the adventure does begin in California. I leave Tuesday for my eleventh mission to serve with Joni and Friends at a Wounded Warrior Getaway (soldiers don't retreat). There is fun planned around every corner: rock climbing and a rock band, hot air balloon rides, spa time for the women, and a carnival with a special appearance from Care EE the clown. When I return, I'll head down to San Antonio for a reunion of all the soldiers and their families that have attended over the past four years. It is sure to be a great blessing for all!

When questioned by the media, celebrities and championship winning athletes are paid for their endorsements and to say, "I'm going to Disneyland." But no paycheck or promise was given to a Master Sergeant as he expressed his thanks for being able to attend the Wounded Warrior event. It was with sincerity of heart and experiencing the love and peace of our Savior that lead him to say, "This is better than Disneyland!"

E Ticket holder with a smile,
Charlynn

Your financial support enables the ministry to participate in these events. To donate online with a credit card please visit our website:

www.sunshineafterrain.org

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Lifted

2011-09-13T23:19:00.000-05:00

"Your love is liftin' me higher than "Your love is liftin' me higher than I've ever been lifted before..." Rita Coolidge

Every morning this week the fog has been thick across the bay. Today was no different. As I walked toward the dining room, I noticed a crowd gathered at the window looking outside. "Curious," I thought to myself since all they can see is fog. But as I joined them, I saw what had grabbed their attention - a hot air balloon rising into the mist!

The soldiers and their families were eagerly waiting their turn to take flight and be lifted. The main purpose in these gatherings of wounded warriors is to do something similar spiritually and emotionally. In the presence of the "fog" of disability, mental state and circumstance they are lifted to see a different perspective on their situation.

"....Now once, I was down hearted, disappointment was my closest friend..."

They have had a few days away from the regimented life of the military, the schedules for treatment, the questions without answers, and the absence of joy. They have been lifted out of wheelchairs into the basket of a balloon, and even strapped into a tandem para-sail to take flight! They have shared stories and shed tears, but rest assured they have laughed more in these past few days than they have since they returned from the war zone.

"...But you came, he soon departed, and he never showed his face again..."

The children have bonded with other kids whose parents have been affected by disability. They have understood they are not alone. They have learned Bible stories, enjoyed crafts, played games and busted a pinata filled with enough candy to keep every dentist on the East Coast employed.

There were boat rides, fish caught, rock walls climbed, extreme swings swung, zip lines zipping, chicken dancing and open mic karaoke.

The talent came out as their inhibitions faded. I was touched at the renditions of love songs husbands sang to their seated wives. One soldier made his way slowly limping toward the stage with his cane. He apologized but related he really wanted to share this one song. Most of the lyrics have escaped me but the most painful and poignant, "I just wanna go home."

They have thanked us repeatedly, they have embraced us often, they have been served completely, and they have been loved well.

"...I can stand up and face the world again..."

High and smiling
Charlynn

PRAY
For hearts to be eternally changed as the Gospel is shared tomorrow

For those struggling with faith issues to experience healing and comfort

For the children who need to make a decision for Christ to do so

For continued spiritual and emotional healing of the trauma of war

For comfort and mercy

For safe travel

Lost at Sea

2011-09-12T21:54:00.000-05:00

"There's a man across the sea, never heard the sound of freedom ring, only in his dreams..." Where There is Faith by 4Him

As the sun set across the Chesapeake Bay, a warrior walked to the edge of the embankment with his wife and two small children. They held hands and watched the crimson ball sink behind the treetops. It made for a beautiful photo opportunity as the family's silhouette was captured in the changing hues of a closing day.

Across an ocean too vast for our comprehension many of his friends are still fighting. And although he is not carrying a weapon on the war front, he is learning to do battle with a new enemy; one that has invaded the very personal territory of his mind.

Americans have little understanding or appreciation for freedom because we have never been persecuted and jailed for speaking our mind, anytime, anywhere. However, as believers, we all can grasp the bondage of sin and the freedom and deliverance faith in Christ brings to us. Yet, too often we fail in fighting the good fight in "bringing many sons to glory!"

I received an email from our host in Tanzania today. She asked for prayer for the horrible ferry accident that killed so many. The best friend of her daughter had two brothers aboard the ferry that night. They were Christians. They were saved - from death at sea that night but more critically from eternal separation from the Father.
Ninety-nine percent of the people that were lost at sea really were lost!

A father, a fighter, a soldier, and a saint stood upon the shoreline tonight. He was willing to cross an ocean so that others might taste the freedom he cherishes.

Thank you for faithfully supporting the work of Sunshine After Ministries that we may continue to "throw out the lifeline for someone who's sinking today."

Setting sail for souls

Shaken not Stirred

2011-09-11T22:44:00.000-05:00

"He's told us this quite plainly—He'll also rock the heavens: "One last shaking, from top to bottom, stem to stern." The phrase "one last shaking" means a thorough housecleaning, getting rid of all the historical and religious junk so that the unshakable essentials stand clear and uncluttered."

We must have had some junk to rid ourselves of before the soldiers and their families arrived. When our team met this morning for training the retreat director stood to speak, said "We need to pray," and then stepped away as the composure fell from her eyes like the rain we had heard all night. Another staff member stood up and told us our trainer (the director's sister) had walked away from the breakfast table and gone back to her room violently ill! To add injury to insult their ailing elderly father had just been admitted to the hospital and was failing to improve. And as if "Murphy's" law of averages weren't already against us, the forecast for the evening (all our programs with the soldiers and their families were scheduled outside) a severe thunderstorm from 5:30 to midnight!

When life brings you to your knees, there is only one thing to do

clear a spot and worship God!

That we did. We surrounded the director, extended our hands, opened our hearts, and burst into the throne room of our King with boldness. We rose from a kneeling position, armed with the full armor of God equipped to do battle for the wounded souls of men, women and children who would arrive in a few hours.

The schedule was adjusted, the training was modified, rooms were decorated, supplies were assembled we were prepared, and we kept praying. A few attending drove here on their own, but the majority of the 23 families came in a military transport bus from Bethesda Walter Reed Medical Center two hours away. Kids and adults came out of the monstrous "rock-star" style caravan and were met with ample and able helping hands and hearts. There was only one soldier left on the bus who was making his way out the back utilizing the lift for his motorized wheelchair. The sun was shining, the birds were singing there was laughter in the air and the devil in the details (again/still). About six inches down from the platform the lift stopped! No going up, no going down; stuck six feet in the air like a roller coaster ride gone awry.

Alrighty then! Misery, your friend company just arrived.

Several mechanical-minded men began to work on the solution - because there definitely was a problem. The soldier remained good-natured and patient during the process in spite of the sun shining directly on his side of the bus. Our hearts skipped a beat when the lift made a crushing sound and dropped about 6 inches.
By the time the repair was complete and he made it off the bus it was time for the activities to begin.

We had something to celebrate -

the freedom we enjoy

that cost him both his legs.

From the start of things, the next few days will be an unforgettable time for us all.

We laughed, we played games, we danced (the young man led the conga line with his wheelchair) and we sent lanterns soaring into the CLEAR night sky.

I've had my share recently of "boat moments," when it seemed like a "sleeping Jesus" was not being mindful of my circumstance. Sometimes it definitely "feels" like He IS sleeping (or looking the other way) but the Word clearly says, "He never slumbers or sleeps."

Our day began with a storm of circumstances that were definitely out of our control. Our evening ended knowing our Master is at the helm of this ship. He controls the wind and the waves. He is speaking "peace" in the place of war.

There is healing in His wings!

Clear and uncluttered
Running
Not weary
Walking
Not fainting
And smiling still

Charlynn

PRAY!

For the leadership: for the health of our trainer and licensed counselor who is in charge of the breakout session; for their father to see improvement in his health condition; for their mother to have peace about her two daughters not being at her side

For the volunteers: joy, joy, joy. For patience! 17 children under 4. That's a handful and a handful of dirty diapers to boot. Pray for peace for the children as they make a separation from their parents tomorrow morning. For the 6 other children aged 8-14 to have some good old-fashioned fun, to have life changing encounters with Jesus

For the soldiers: many who are experiencing their first family break together. And as one of the Texas attendees said, "it is better than Disneyland." That the Getaway would be a safe and emotionally healing environment

For the caregivers: to be validated and ministered to equally as important as the wounded warrior

For a supernatural hedge of protection around the facility and the health of everyone. The enemy would love to shoot sniper fire at the "field workers." Let no weapon formed against us prosper!

United We Stand

2011-09-10T21:27:00.000-05:00

"Take on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and, having done all, to stand." Ephesians 6:13

I'm listening to praise music before I finally call it a day, and it has been a long one. I left my house at 3:45AM to head out for the airport and catch my 5:00 flight to Philadelphia via Detroit. Driving in the dark, barely conscious I came to all my senses and awareness when I reached the north entrance to the airport only to see it SHUT DOWN and under construction. There I was detouring through Grapevine praying not to have a flat tire or a fainting spell. "Lord, just get me on that plane!"

He did, and here I am, trained up, prayed up and armor on! The setting is beautiful, the volunteers ready willing and able and God - well He is a palpable presence! Kneel with us for the "standing" days ahead

Suiting up and smiling
Charlynn

SPECIFIC PRAYER REQUESTS:

Warriors and Families: packing and preparing to be at the getaway; ease tense situations, bring supernatural peace to their spirits

Program Team: Logistics and their energy, Weather! Many of the activities are outdoors on the beautiful Chesapeake Bay. Another rain storm came in this evening. Pray it stops and goes south to Texas.

Child Leaders and Workers: 17 children UNDER the age of 4! 9 of those are UNDER 2!!! Pray for good rockers, few tears and lots of naps.

Middle School Child Workers: Energy, fun and an atmosphere where they can be safe to be kids

Caregiver Sessions: pray for emotional healing and spiritual blessings to be abundant

Warrior Sessions: pray for the soldiers to feel comfortable sharing. At past retreats this has been an opportunity for them to begin the healing from the trauma of war so needed.

Host Table: a place where soldiers and their families can grab a snack, chat with the hosts and get to know each other

Worship Team/Speakers: pray for open hearts to hear the comfort of the Father. Pray for ministering angels to walk alongside those in attendance

Who Will Roll the Stone?

2011-09-08T18:56:00.004-05:00

"And they were saying to one another, "Who will roll away the stone for us from the entrance of the tomb?" Mark 16:3

I have aged!

In the time since my return from East Africa another birthday has been crossed off the calendar and I am one year older and wiser. How much longer can I, will I continue to make these trans-oceanic flights? As noted, I am NOT getting any younger, the travel is not getting easier, but my burden for the lost and broken of this world is growing greater. We are all one day closer to heaven whether or not we realize or admit it.

In one of our final meetings with the leadership in Tanzania, our host affirmed how difficult the whole process had been. She related the scripture in Mark when the women went to the tomb of their Master with oils to anoint His body. They KNEW they had no way to get in to do the job, but they went anyway.

She turned to us and said, "Sisters, there was so much that you did not know, but you came anyway! What was impossible for us to accomplish God had already taken care of."

Once again, I am packing up the "oils of ministry" and setting off for a "tomb" I have no way of entering. This weekend I will be heading up to Maryland to work with Wounded Warriors who are undergoing treatment at military facilities on the East Coast.

The opportunity came with short notice and little time to request funding. But when I heard the soldiers and their families arrive ON September 11, I knew it was a place I had to be.

For this generation, remembering "Where were you on 9-11?" has become the same iconic question that for my generation was "Where were you when Kennedy was assassinated?" This year marks the tenth anniversary of the attack and the day the world changed forever.

Soldiers went off to foreign soil to protect and defend, to be wounded and die, and to be forever altered mentally by the horror and tragedy of a broken world under the influence of evil and terror.

It is with great honor that I serve those who selflessly guard my freedom.

Pray for divine encounters

Pray for spiritual and emotional healing

Pray for the weather as the East Coast is currently being affected by the tropical storms

Pray for FUN! This getaway offers the family a reprieve from the medical and military environment that has become their new normal

Pray for the speakers and leadership to be directed by the Holy Spirit to influence the hearts and minds of those attending

Pray for the volunteers (like me) who are showing up for duty!

Pray for ministry funding that continues to be at an all time low

"And I searched for a man among them who should build up the wall and stand in the gap before Me for the land..." Ezekiel 22:30

Getting out the bricks and mortar with a smile!

Do the Work...

2011-08-14T16:19:00.006-05:00

... of an evangelist, discharge all the duties of your ministry." 2 Timothy 4:5

Dark has fallen hard on this last night we will spend in Africa. Once again I find myself under the false security of the mosquito net that encapsulates my bed. I may be protected from the flying blood suckers outside, but as it takes a full five minutes to straighten and arrange the flimsy curtain, I surely trapped at least a dozen or more inside with me. My legs are a witness to my exposure!

I crossed an ocean, battled porters, resettled into a new hotel, had our last day of conferences AND preached a sermon this morning to the English speaking congregation of the Evangelical Lutheran Church here in Dar es Salaam since our last report. All I could think of as I lay my head on the pillow (well other than trying to swat the beasts that were besetting me) was "I am SPENT!"

I remembered Paul's note to Timothy where he said, "I am already being poured out like a drink offering, AND THE TIME HAS COME FOR MY DEPARTURE." 2 Timothy 4:6

I'm preparing for another departure:
We are homeward bound tomorrow at 1:00 pm CST.

I have fought another good fight on foreign soil.
We have held two Women's Leadership Conferences, a Training Seminar for Sunday School teachers and evangelists and concluded today with a "short-notice" sermon when the youth leader scheduled fell ill.

I have finished the race:
Over 200 women and men were discipled and encouraged, strengthened and motivated in their Christian walk.

I have kept the faith:
In spite of dwindling resources, inadequate funding, little budget input, no information about where we would stay - we came. We believed we were called according to God's plan and purpose and He would make a way.

He certainly did!

Spent, spilled out, but smiling
In His service
Charlynn in dark Dar

A Titus for Terrorists

2011-08-12T08:08:00.000-05:00

Our last conference in Zanzibar was with a group of evangelists and Sunday School teachers. We were blessed to speak freely without shouting over the noisy neighbors' loudspeakers.

The "Goliath" (the incessant sound emanating from the mosque) we slew the previous day was still silent. We spent our time sharing effective techniques for reaching children with the Good News.

The attendees were eager to learn and engaging. After each session they asked questions without hesitation. They openly shared their frustrations in the classrooms and the real problem of persecution.

"These are the things you should teach. Encourage and rebuke with all authority. Do not let anyone put you down." Titus 2:15

I'm thankful for Paul's instruction to Titus; the scriptures served me well during the meeting. This short letter from the apostle Paul gives instructions to a leader in the hostile territory of Crete. Paul explains why he left Titus behind on the island nation he described as being filled with "liars, evil brutes and lazy gluttons." (Titus 1:12)

When they started sharing how in their houses, if they are singing or they have Christian music on; even if they meet together for a meal, their neighbors accuse them of having a church and they are promptly evicted even though their rent is paid for the entire year. In the government operated school system, the religion of Islam as well as the Arabic language is mandatory teaching. Their houses, places of business, schools and churches are often targeted for destruction and vandalism. Their jobs (if they can find one) are at risk if anyone accuses them of spreading their beliefs.

If not for Titus, I would have felt woefully inadequate to address such issues but Paul says, "Let no one put you down." What matters in this situation is I know GOD knows how to address the issues. I know God is faithful in ALL situations. I know God cares deeply for ALL His childrens sufferings. I know God brought us to Zanzibar "for such a time as this."

This island and its inhabitants are no better or worse than Crete and its Creatians. The believers are there not just to find employment in the tourist industry, but to take back enemy territory! The are modern day Titus' that will conquer the terrorism of Islam. I asked the participants if their house or their job was worth the eternal salvation of their neighbor? I reminded them of the war zone they are in for the spiritual freedom and lives of their nation.

After the meeting we spent time with the five women's leaders who organized the conference. They humbly thanked us for bringing the women from across the island together. With tears in their eyes they expressed their gratitude for the money we brought that paid for the transportation, the meals, and the tea times. "We would never have been able to have this kind of meeting where women can be encouraged and trained for Christian life and work. We have no way to raise this kind of money." They were moved to hear of the prayers around the world being said on their behalf.

Our thanks to all who supported the work here in Zanzibar financially. We understand the current economic difficulties in the United States have created an environment where giving is lower than ever in the 16 year history of our ministry. But when I hear the impact and experience first-hand the fruits of the harvest I am encouraged to keep asking so that we can keep going and making disciples in all nations!

I know the people of Zanzibar are worth whatever sacrifice I am asked to make, for Christ already determined their value (and mine) by dying on the cross to purchase freedom for the slaves.

One of my favorite verses to quote is found sandwiched in the middle of the book. Perhaps I quote it often because I feel it fits me well: "And purify unto Himself a PECULIAR people zealous of good works." Titus 2:14

Peculiarly smiling
Zealous in His service
Charlynn

"Everyone with me sends you greetings. Greet those who love us in the faith. Grace be with you all." Titus 3:15

The Oak in Ophrah

2011-08-10T22:14:00.000-05:00

"The angel of the Lord came and sat down under the oak in Ophrah...and the angel of the Lord appeared to Gideon and said, "The Lord is with you, mighty warrior." Judges 6:11-12

We walked from the car to the Pastor's office and the sound coming from the mosque was deafening. It was louder than the previous day's chants and the some voices sounded feminine. We asked the Pastor if women were allowed to make pronouncements. He shook his head and told us that these were not women but the voices of children. "It seems they have decided to hold a contest today for the reciting of the Koran. These are young boys who have memorized these verses." I had to shake MY head. If evangelicals were half as committed and enthusiastic to memorize the Bible and pray even three times a day, the world would be a different place.

We entered the sanctuary and began the conference trying hard to speak loudly enough to be heard above the cacophony coming from behind us. From 10:00 in the morning until 2:00 in the afternoon there was not one breath or break in the consistency of the speaking. All throughout our lunch the voices were louder and louder. I sat trying not to get indigestion, and then I had an inspiration!

I remembered the Israelite army sitting for forty days in the Valley of Elah listening to the mocking of their God. It wasn't until the little brother of three of the soldiers showed up with some cheese that things changed. David asked, "Who is this uncircumscised Philistine that he should defy the armies of the living God?" 2 Samuel 17:26

We had been told earlier that the mosque knew there was something happening at the church because of all the arrivals. This was their response. They were harassing us with their noise! I turned to my teammate and said, "Eureka in Zanzibar! (not really) I know what we have to do! We have to have the congregation stand here in the corner and read the passage about David and Goliath." When the interpreter asked if we were ready to begin after lunch, I explained the battle plan. I gave her the passage for the women. (1 Samuel 17:16-58) "Tell everyone with a Bible to bring it to this wall facing the mosque. We will read the scripture aloud together. For those who don't have a Bible let them give the amen, after the verses."

We started reading, Debi and I in English and all the Africans in Kiswahili. We got louder, the mosque got louder, we kept reading and amen-ing! When the passage was over the women all returned to their seats. I shared with them an account I heard about an orphanage in Mexico. A girl was about to be returned to relatives who had every intention to sell her into prostitution. The director did not know what to do as this was their legal right. She desperately phoned a friend to help her. Perhaps the older friend would have more influence with the authorities. The police arrived, the relatives arrived, the friend arrived, the girl was crying, chaos was abounding. When suddenly the friend stood up, took out her Bible and began to read aloud; verse after verse after verse after verse. The police were confused, the relatives were confused - was this woman crazy? She just kept reading. They soon saw the woman was not to be shaken or moved by the antics. They walked out and left the girl behind never to return again. The director was relieved and expecting her friend to offer some comfort or something. Instead, she said, "You didn't have to call me. Never forget you have the greatest weapon and all you need to fight any battle you are in!" Not exactly what she was expecting.

I related this story and at the conclusion the women were saying, "Amen" in agreement with the victory at the orphanage. Perhaps as you read this you are saying amen as well. I asked them to listen. They turned to each other quizzically. "What do you hear?" They looked around still not sure of the answer I was looking for.

"Listen!" I repeated.

For the first time in six hours the speakers of the mosque were absolutely silent.

"And everyone gathered here will learn that God doesn't save by means of sword or spear. The battle belongs to God..." 2 Samuel 17:47

AMEN INDEED!

I shared the story in Judges of Gideon; how he gathered a huge army to fight against the enemies of Israel. In the end God took less than one percent of the army to bring about defeat. I looked at the small number of women gathered at the church in the backyard of the mosque and said, "You are God's one percent. Less than one percent of the nation of Zanzibar is Christian, when the enemy falls the living God will get all the credit."
"On this rock I will build My church and the gates of Hell will not prevail." Matthew 16:18

Our time with these women was brief; two days does not seem nearly enough given the weight of their issues and the circumstances they face. We are confident that we have used the time wisely in training them with love, equipping them with the Word, and showing them God DOES fight with us and for us.

We begin our conference with the Sunday School teachers tomorrow. Pray for continued silencing of the enemy and his minions from the minarets!

"One more thing friends: Pray for us. Pray that the Master's Word will simply take off and race through the country of Zanzibar to a groundswell response..." 2 Thessalonians 3:1 The Message (paraphrased)

Stones in my pocket, armed, dangerous and smiling in His service

Sent via BlackBerry by AT&T

Heat Advisory

2011-08-09T13:55:00.000-05:00

"...and the elements shall melt with fervent heat." 2 Peter 3:10

The sweat rolled down our cheeks. Our carefully couiffed hairdos soon wilted in the sweltering humidity. The boiling hot coffee wasn't helping to keep our core temperature in check. We finally got relief when we walked outside of the church office.

"Ahhh, a cool breeze, I was dying in there!" We said in unison. And as quickly as we made the exclamation, we both looked at each other and realized 86 degrees with high humidity is nothing compared to Texas, where the weather is still over 100 degrees!

When we left Texas a week ago the consecutive number of days (31) ranked #2 for the all time record. Each day since our arrival I have received an alert from The Weather Channel set to my area. Like a broken record it reads, "Heat Advisory in Effect, take caution...be aware...prepare yourself..."

Charlynn Johns and Debi Slaver arrived in Zanzibar praying to be more than a "Heat Advisory" (although I assure you the Bible specifically mentions hell as a lake of fire, burning hot.) We are here to encourage and equip the women to endure the fiery trials of the enemy but also to follow the advice of Jude 23 and "snatch them (their Muslim neighbors) from hell."

Today we taught about identity in Christ. The God who calls them by name. We spoke of love; loving God, loving themselves and then loving others. Those are "feel good" things to teach. But when the time came for questions and answers...

A woman stood and speaking quickly in Kiswahili told her story and asked the relevant, and in game show terms "The $64,000 question.

"How can I show love when my Muslim neighbors are trying to burn my house down for using it as a church? I am sneaking the children out after dark in case they try and kill us at night...?"

As facilitator of the discussion I quickly pointed out our cultural differences. I pointed out our skin color (they laughed at my white skin like a glow worm!) Why or how would I have something relevant to say to this obviously frightened woman? I internally ask myself that quite a few times. Who am I?

Who am I? Was actually the theme of my topic. I have the authority, because it has been given to me by Christ! I have the wisdom through the indwelling of the Holy Spirit, and I can "bet the farm" because I walk through the valley of the shadow of death to lead me beyond a shadow of a doubt -

God is who He says He is!

If I explained my "Boat moment" of mounting debt crisis and lack of ministry funding, she might just slap me for comparing the two. "Lady you are comparing some finances to my HOUSE being burned down and my children possibly being burned alive to your silly American mess you have got yourself into?"

Don't alarm yourselves. We did not have this confrontation. But at any given time no matter who you are, what your are fretting, panicking, acting on hard core facts of imminent danger none of that changes the fact the God IS GOD.

Here's the mystery:

"The way God designed our bodies is a model for understanding our lives together as a church... If ONE part hurts, EVERY OTHER PART IS INVOLVED IN THE HURT

and in the healing.". 1 Corinthians 12:25-26 The Message

We didn't come to fight their neighbors or convince those torch-weilders the house used as a church is a good thing. We are not here as negotiating lawyers, or medical doctors to heal their ailments. We are here representing the Body of Christ (that would be you) to preach Christ and Him crucified.

When we walked outside of a hot room on the other side of the world, we immediately thought of our "brothers and sisters" in the deadly heat affecting the southwest. But can you tell me, when you walked out into that deadly heat, did you think of the 900,000 people of Zanzibar who will perish in ETERNAL heat? Did your discomfort cause you to think about those who right now tonight are sneaking their children out a back door through the village to keep them from being burned alive just because a church meets in their home?

Their is a heat advisory here in Zanzibar. The heat may come after people die under the false doctrine, the heat may come through the persecution of the believers. One thing is certain, this is no "greenhouse effect"! My personal flames flare when I listen to the enemy tell me I am not enough, I am too weird, way too white, and extraordinarily tall by compare.

"Never again will they hunger; never again will they thirst. The sun will not beat upon them, nor any scorching heat. For the Lamb at the center of the throne will be their shepherd; He will lead them to springs of living water. And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes." Revelation 7:16-17

Pray for the equipping of the saints! Enter into the sufferings, bear their burdens and thus fulfill the law! Pray for extra-ordained days.

God is who He says He is!

Carrying the fire hose
With a smile
Charlynn

Ruins

2011-08-08T14:39:00.000-05:00

"It's a fact: darkness isn't dark to You; night and day, darkness and light, they're all the same to You." Psalm 139:12 The Message

I'm sitting here on a queen-size bed in my hotel in Zanzibar. The four-posters surrounding me keep the mosquito net from becoming a spider trap in the middle of the night when I must wake up and rid myself of a portion of the three liters of water I have consumed throughout my day. My teammate sits across from me with the ever handy Strong's Concordance to search for relevant scriptures to describe our day's experience. We discuss how King James (Strong's notes the KJV) would say wilderness or ruins or fragrance. We are engaged in a lively discussion, and then

the lights go out.

We both laugh, because anticipating the nightly event, I have my handy (though ridiculous looking) camping headlight affixed to my forehead.

"What are some verses on darkness" I ask, since all other references have become seemingly irrelevant in the quiet blackness of our room. It is all the same to Him! And as I write 10,000 miles from my homeland it IS actually light there.

Today was our last day of preparation. We assembled gift bags for the Conference attendees, and gathered our subject materials. When we finished we had time to visit a small beach and take a walk. My teammate wanted to inquire about boat rentals and we set off down the shoreline towards the pier.

As we were walking, I noticed a dilapidated stone building and called out for them to wait up. I climbed up the banks and saw a small inconspicuous sign that read "Mtoni Palace Ruins." Intrigued, I asked our driver if he would check out if there was a guide for the location. He returned with the resident archaeologist who proceeded to give us an amazing history lesson and detailed explanation of the locale.

The structure was the first palace built on the island, by an Arab who came from Oman. He called the place in ZANZIBAR (transliterated) Arabic meaning "The Desert Place," because there was not one tree on the island. The Sultan brought plants from India and other exotic lands and created a nation known for its "spice." It wasn't long before he expanded his exports to include the trafficking of human slaves. Ghana, West Africa was the export capital of slavery to Europe and the Americas but for India, China, Russia and nations East the place to purchase people was Zanzibar.

We walked through the ruins, heard the history and I thought of the legendary pain and suffering this Arab man and his descendants brought to this land. After the coming of Livingstone and the exposure of the cruel inhumanity, the practice stopped but the religion of the Arabs remained. The Sultan turned a desert nation into a visible garden of Edenic spice but left it a spiritual desert

Tomorrow we begin the conference to nurture and nourish the believers here. We are putting hoes of hope, rakes of restoration, and wheel barrows of the Word into the hands and hearts of the laborers here. Pray for the fallow ground!

"The desert and the parched land will be glad; the wilderness will rejoice and blossom." Isaiah 35:1

We are equipping the saints, making disciples of all nations and building up the ruins of souls decimated by deception.

"Tell fearful souls, "Courage! Take heart! God is here, right here, on His way to put things right and redress all wrongs. He's on His way! He'll save you!" Isaiah 35:4 The Message

Pray for wisdom, discernment and more and more and more and more to be said and shared. Our conference time was increased today an additional two hours. Pray for the Holy Spirit to fill the time!

"This is the message we have heard from Him and declare to you: God is light; in Him there is no darkness at all. " 1 John 1:5

This little light o' mine
I'm gonna let it shine!

In the dark night with His Light
Charlynn

Back to Dalmanutha

2011-08-07T14:28:00.000-05:00

"He got in the boat with His disciples, and went to the region of Dalmanutha." Mark 8:10

It seems that my time in Zanzibar continues to follow a "boat" theme! The few days before our departure, definitely felt like Jesus was "asleep" in the boat during the middle of my storm. And though my spirit and anxiety have at times improved, the "waves" on an ocean of circumstances well beyond our control remain.

Last year I wrote regarding "Dalmanutha" and the fact that while I had read the verses and remember the account of the feeding of the four thousand, the "region of Dalmanutha," never remained in my memory. This morning during the church service the Pastor read the passage in Mark and I felt like I had returned to a familiar neighborhood. "Dalmanutha, nice place to visit, but you have to take a boat to get there."

Zanzibar, nice place to visit, but you have to take a boat to get here.

The sound is exotic, but do you remember why you know of Zanzibar? I thought about Zanzibar like Dalmanutha. What do I know and why exactly do I even know about this small island off the coast of Tanzania? Is it the Bing Crosby and Bob Hope film "Road to Zanzibar" that created the buzz about this distant land? Is it the spice exports they are famous for? I just can't recall, but for certain as we "took a boat" to get here I knew it's a place that needs to know Jesus.

Yesterday we arrived after our brief intermission at the YWCA in Dar es Salaam. We both decided that while it was safe, we were definitely too old for a shared restroom at the end of a long hallway. At breakfast, the canteen was filled with a variety of bohemian-looking youth (dread locks, torn jeans, and tube tops). After our breakfast of bread and mixed-meat weenie we were off for the boat.

Here's our dilemma: two middle-aged very light-skinned women with two hundred pounds in four bags two carry-ons and a back pack trying to negotiate through three hundred very dark-skinned Africans with a few pieces of hand luggage. The porters (who I vehemently warned about touching the above stated two hundred pounds) actually mocked us about trying to get down to the dock. We finally relented and let a porter negotiate through the crowd, load our heavy burdens on the boat and be off!

I was glad we were not on the "slow boat to China," but the fast boat to Zanzibar which still took over two hours across rough seas. "Jesus, are you awake yet? We are going to need some help getting off this boat."

We docked and stood among the crowd who were trying to collect belongings which ranged from new bedspreads and coconuts to the backpacks of a group of bohemians. Reasonable porters appeared and took our bags to the immigration area where we became official entrants into ZANZIBAR!

We were met by the Pastor and after a quick lunch we took a tour of the site of the ancient slave market. A huge stone cathedral now stands where human beings were tortured, beaten and held in chains and auctioned off like livestock. Our guide told us the story of the explorer Stanley Livingstone, who in his search for the source of the Nile stumbled upon the brutality of slavery in Zanzibar. After seeing the atrocities perpetrated here in this land, he left his primary occupation and began a fight to abolish the practice. A crucifix made from the tree he died under is in the church; a golden plaque recorded the following:

"To the glory of God and in memory of Livingstone and other explorer men good and brave, who to advance knowledge set free the slave and hasten Christ's Kingdom in Africa, loved not their lives, even unto death."

Dalmanutha was famous because Jesus was there. One reason Zanzibar is famous - because two thousand years later a follower of Jesus came here and began the process of abolishing the slave trade the area was infamous for - Dr. Livingstone you may presume.

We are here this week to abolish the slavery of false doctrines. Six hundred thousand people live on the island but less than 6,000 claim Christ as King. Today during the church service the loudspeakers from the mosque next door competed with the praise. We were told whenever permission is given to build a church, the locals immediately put a mosque next to it. The loudspeakers may drown out the sound but they cannot drown out the Truth.

"If the Son sets you free you will be free indeed." John 8:36

Waiting to hear ALL God's children say, "Free at last, free at last, thank God we're free at last"

Following in Livingstone's footsteps
Smiling
Charlynn

Afar in Dar

2011-08-05T15:00:00.000-05:00

Just a quick note to say we have arrived safely, along with all our luggage!

We are trying to sleep fast with entangling ourselves in the duct-tape patched mosquitoes nets covering our beds. I am quite sure I will be the feast for at least one hundred lucky beasts who snuck inside before I could tuck the net down. They were swarming in our little YWCA hostel.

Before you start feeling too sorry for us, here in the hinterlands, fighting infections and insects, and I sing myself a pitiful lullaby, God graced us undeservedly by giving us a Business Class upgrade from Zurich to Dar. We slept long and well and ate like queens. Now back to reality.

Pray for our protection tonight. I have my little door alarm jammed up to the entrance so we should be okay.

Pray for our rest and recovery as we must wake up in a few hours to get to the boat to Zanzibar.

Pray for our luggage and transfers

Pray for our health

Pray for all the women who are preparing to hear what the Lord has brought for them.

Pray for the salvation of an island nation steeped in the traditions of ancient Islamic culture

Just pray

Remembering the airplane fondly
Smiling in His service
Charlynn

Sent via BlackBerry by AT&T

Night Cometh

2011-07-28T11:56:00.000-05:00

Last night, much of the nation watched the Presidential address on the economy. I'm not sure anything new was learned or forth coming. The fact there is no easy solution for our nation's "debt crisis" isn't a surprise. Who IS going to pay?

The news commentators have a good deal to say about the debt. The President certainly had his fifteen minutes last night to "speak to the nation" on the crisis. The senators, legislators and economists all add their fair share to the expanding conversation. I confess my lack of understanding really anything about the conflicting barrage of information down right bored me.

Until

I heard the Christian End-times commentator Hal Lindsey present this very simple yet horrifying fact:

A million seconds = 12 days

A billion seconds = 32 years

A trillion seconds = 32,000 years

At the rate of

$1 per second

$60 per minute

$3,600 per hour

$86,400 per day

Paying back the amount of money the USA has BORROWED the first 7 months of the fiscal year 2011 would take

27,808 YEARS to pay back

For some reason no one is saying that!

"I must work the works of Him who sent me, while it is day; the night cometh when no man can work." John 9:4

When I consider the FACTS regarding the state of our national economy, I understand better the economic debt crisis Sunshine After Rain Ministries is facing. As difficult as our country's crisis is, and as difficult as all of our combined individual crisis' are, they are small by compare to what our brothers and sisters in other parts of the world are facing today.

"...there should be no division in the body, but that its parts should have equal concern for each other. If one part suffers, EVERY PART suffers with it." 1 Corinthians 12:26

I have to wonder if our failure to regard the welfare of others (and I am not speaking nation to nation, but believer to believer) hasn't brought on some of our present suffering?

But suffering and lack is something they are familiar with. They have faced those same crisis' each and every day of their lives:

No clean water

No access to medical help

No consistent source of food

No civil rights

No education

No freedom to worship

No BIBLES

No churches

No Pastors

No Evangelists

"How can they call on the One they have not believed in? And how can they believe in the One of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them? And how can they preach unless they are sent? As is it written, "How beautiful are the feet of those who bring the Good News!" Romans 10:14-15

Barefoot and Broke

But still smiling in His service,

We appreciate the partnership you have faithfully offered. Go online today! NOW your financial contribution will make a significant impact:

2011 TANZANIA WOMENS CONFERENCE SPONSORSHIP:

$15 Sponsors one woman or church lay leader

$100 Sponsors Tea Break for conference attendees

$250 Sponsors One Lunch for conference attendees

$100 ponsors overhead costs for Tanzania Leadership

Sunshine After Rain Ministries is a 501c3 organization. All donations are considered tax deductible. For more information or to make a donation by credit card online, please visit our website: www.sunshineafterrain.org

Champions

2011-07-11T17:25:00.001-05:00

It’s been a while since the Dallas Mavericks won the MBA Championship. While there are still signs posted near the arena proclaiming them as the 2011 World Champions, the buzz and pride felt in the city has faded like a wilting flower in this summer’s 100+ degree heat. The Mavericks were seen as the “underdogs” in the finals and with each victory, came the renewed hope that they just make take it “all the way.” They were victorious in spite of the fact they were not playing on their home court. They returned to Dallas and the Most Valuable Player (Dirk Nowitzki) sang from the balcony an off-key rendition of “We Are the Champions” for the tens of thousands of fans gathered to celebrate. I don’t think he cared about what he sounded like, he was singing to the cheers of those gathered to support and celebrate with the team.

"...all these veterans cheering us? It means we'd better get on with it. Strip down, start running and never quit!" Hebrews 12:1 The Message

In a few short weeks, Sunshine After Rain Ministries will return to Tanzania to lead a conference for women and lay church workers. We are returning this year because of the overwhelming response to our past conferences:

“I never thought that God knew me by my name. Now I know that my name is important and God knows me and calls me by my name, I will live by this.”

“I always knew that I should love others. Knowing this, I really loved my husband, my children, my friends and my neighbors. But what surprised me is that my love had boundaries and I need to also love myself.”

“The joy was seen in the women at Olokii where 150 Bibles were distributed. There were some women who really were in need of reading the Word of God, but had no Bibles.”

"This is no afternoon athletic contest that we'll walk away from and forget about in a couple of hours. This is for keeps, a life or death fight to the finish against the devil and all his angels."

Eph 6:12 The Message

I know we will not return home to a parade or gathered crowds of people singing. But this I do know, there is a cloud of witnesses in heaven that is cheering on our mission. They are cheering for the obedience to the call of Christ, “Go, make disciples.” They are eager to see the women and lay workers encouraged to build up the local body of believers. They don’t care about the Dallas Mavericks, but they do care about the thousands of lost souls living in Zanzibar under the veil of false gods. Less than 3% of the population identify themselves as Christians. It is an area the local evangelicals have been unable to penetrate. Our goal is to bring encouragement, discipleship and evangelism tools to help advance the territory of the King.

We appreciate the partnership you have faithfully offered. Now more than ever your financial contribution is critically needed and makes a significant impact:

2011 TANZANIA WOMENS CONFERENCE SPONSORSHIP:

$15 Sponsors one woman or church lay leader

$100 Sponsors Tea Break for conference attendees

$250 Sponsors One Lunch for conference attendees

$100 Sponsors overhead costs for Tanzania Leadership

To see an inspiring look at women of Africa participating in past conferences check out our video on YouTube.

We are looking for our true home and our true reward, for we know we are more than conquerors, we are more than MBA Champions. We are servants and children of the Most High God!

"How did they do it? They saw it way off in the distance, waved their greeting and accepted the fact that they were transients in this world. People who live this way make it plain they are looking for their true home." Hebrews 11:13-14 The Message

A Good Reason to Go on iTunes

2011-06-16T16:42:00.001-05:00

We are now officially in the 21^st Century. Just when you thought you wouldn’t have anything new this summer for you iPhone or iPad the Summer 2011 release of “A Good Reason to Go” comes along. And to think I resisted switching to the iPhone!

If you have an iTunes account, please be the first to write a review and recommend to all your techno-savvy friends.

Check out this book on the iBookstore:

A Good Reason to Go

Charlynn Johns

Category: Biographies & Memoirs

iTunes for Mac and Windows

Please note that you have not been added to any email lists.
Copyright © 2011 Apple Inc. All rights reserved

The Days of Noah

2011-05-21T08:42:00.000-05:00

"For as in those days which were before the flood they were eating and drinking, they were marrying and giving in marriage, until the day that Noah entered the ark." Matthew 24:38

I thought I could sleep in today, but alas, I was wide awake at just after 6:00 am. As hard as I tried to close my eyes and convince myself I was still tired and there was nothing I needed to get up and do this early on a Saturday morning, my efforts were futile.

I turned on the television to check out the weather and other overnight news. "I won't even entertain the question, it is going to happen," I heard a geriatric looking gent say. And of course I heard the commentary criticizing and making fun of his message:

Today at 6:00 pm is the End of the World.

No wonder I woke up!

Let me just be clear and go on record before I go any further. I do not believe the Rapture of the Church will occur at 6:00 pm on May 21, 2011. I won't bother quoting scriptures to refute the message or rebuke the man.

But...

Two weeks ago, my friend was preparing to go about his day. It was May 7, 2011. He stepped into the shower. I can't tell you what his plans for the day were, but I can safely say he did not think it would be his last day of consciousness.

He suffered a massive heart attack. His wife heard his body hit the ground and she rushed in and called 911. That day was not the end of the world, but it was certainly the end of their world as they knew it.

We do not know what this day holds for any one of us. Will we go to the grocery store and have a catastrophe hit us unaware? Will an earthquake shake the foundation of the house we live in? Will someone we love and cherish say their last words to us? Only the Father knows such things.

I am not ridiculing the messenger or the message. We MUST be about the Father's business. We MUST seek first the kingdom of God. We MUST be about the Father's business. We MUST be ready to give a reason for our faith in season and out. We MUST be about the Father's business. We MUST live each day truly, as if it were our last. We MUST be about the Father's business.

Because we might just step into the shower...

"Rend your heart and not your garments. Return to the Lord your God, for He is gracious and compassionate, slow to anger and abounding in love, and He relents from sending calamity." Joel 2:13

The clock IS ticking
Safely smiling in His service,
Charlynn

Please continue to pray for my friend and her family. Her husband was transferred to a long term acute care facility yesterday. He is still unconscious. He does not know today may be the end of the world. He does not know his shower is over.

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Interpreter

2011-05-18T11:12:00.000-05:00

Across the world I work with interpreters; people who take the words I speak and pronounce them in a language my audience will understand. Too frequently, I have found myself in a foreign land without the valued aid of someone who could speak the language. And while the skill-set of "charades" could be added to my resume, I know in critical times, to have someone around who can interpret your needs, is imperative.

"Likewise the Spirit helps us in our weakness. For we do not know what to pray for as we ought, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groanings too deep for words." Romans 8:26

Even without the help of interpreters speaking Swahili or Spanish, I am ever conscious of the Spirit, knowing the Living God is at work in the hearts and minds of the people present. Oswald Chambers wrote on the Romans verse:

"God by His providence brings you into circumstances that you can't understand at all, but the Spirit of God understands. God brings you to places, among people, and into certain conditions to accomplish a definite purpose through the intercession of the Spirit in you... to bring them before His throne, and to allow the Spirit in you the opportunity to intercede for them.

In this way God is going to touch the whole world."

Presently, I find myself in one of those circumstances I don't understand. I spent almost an entire month away from home, out and about the Father's business. As I looked at my blank calendar for the upcoming weeks I wondered what the Lord would fill my days with. It didn't take long before I received notice of a tragedy in "my own backyard."

The Joni and Friends office in San Antonio, Texas contacted the few people that reside in the DFW area about one of the Wounded Warriors (a female) who has attended 5 of the 7 Retreats. Her husband had a massive heart attack and was in the ICU at a local hospital.

I was shocked. I know the family well. I have been blessed to interact with the soldier and hear her story. The family immigrated to the United States in 2000 with refugee status from Iraq; they are Kurdish (who suffered some of the most horrific persecution and annihilation under Saddam Hussein). She joined OUR army after the bombing of the World Trade Center to return and fight against the evil she knew first hand. She left her home, her husband, and her children to fight for OUR freedom. She knew all too well what life without freedom was like.

She served as an interpreter.

In 2008, the convoy she was in was struck by an IED (improvised explosive device). She suffered a traumatic brain injury as well as wounds to her extremities. The family came to the second Wounded Warrior Getaway in October of 2008 while she was still undergoing treatment for her injuries at Brooke Army Medical Center. They returned every spring and fall for the next two years. Her three teenage children (17, 14 and 12) were definitely missed by many. Her husband was not only her primary caregiver, but he also managed the hectic activities of the children as well. "He did everything for us," she tearfully told me, as she stood over him looking at the various machines monitoring his vital signs.

I can't imagine what she and the children are going through. I couldn't fathom looking at the body of one I cherish, unable to communicate with them...

a tragic circumstance without an explanation, or interpretation.

"God of all healing counsel! He comes alongside us when we go through hard times, and before you know it, He brings us alongside someone else who is going through hard times so we can be there for that person just as God was there for us." 2 Corinthians 1:3-4 The Message

Walking alongside the wounded Rallying the troops,
Charlynn

If you are in the DFW and would like to assist the family please contact me for how you or your Bible Study or Church group can help.

If you would like to send a note or card of encouragement and let the family know of your prayers and concern contact me for the address.

The doctors informed her that her husband needs to be transferred to a Long Term Acute Care facility within the next few days. They also made sure she understood there is no hope for his recovery. Although his eyes are open, they have also told her his brain activity is minimal and the man she loved will never return.

Pray!

This transition period will be extremely difficult for everyone in the family as they adjust to life without their primary source of help and comfort. We know our God is able to show Himself through every circumstance. Pray they recognize His presence, mercy, comfort and grace.

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Villians and Heroes

2011-05-06T12:32:00.000-05:00

"I hadn't breathed a word..." Nehemiah 2:16 The Message

It is Friday, and yes, I am thanking God that it is. It is also the end of a very busy month of ministry activity and the start of a new season. I returned from the Wounded Warrior Getaway on Tuesday, having spent one day in the beautiful Texas hill country to relax. I unloaded and returned the rented cargo van that transports my travelling road show of fun, but have yet to get all the personal items back in their place in my tiny apartment.

Unusually, I did not send out any reports of the activity that was happening with the warriors and their families. Since my return home I have received many inquiries about my own well-being. This morning I began reading Nehemiah, one of my favorite personalities of the Old Testament. At various times in my spiritual journey I have fashioned myself as a "Nehemiah," a rebuilder of broken walls and lives. It seemed fitting to update the past week's activities in light of his story.

Ten years in to our "war against terror," makes for as many naysayers as those that faced Nehemiah. He responded to his critics with one of my favorite verses:

"So I answered them and said to them, "The God of heaven will give us success; therefore we His servants will arise and build..." Nehemiah 2:20

For months, I have enlisted help (and prayers) of many to bring the supply needed to rebuild the broken hearts and bodies of the soldiers returning from the battlefield. We made "Trail Tales" journals for families to jot down and record the fun they were having. There were 40 "Sock Soldiers" ready to stand guard with the mission to make smiles. Much to the dismay of my traveling companion and my sons who haul my luggage up the stairs, I took an extra bag to bring back 40 cowboy hats from Chiapas, Mexico for each warrior to wear Saturday night to the hoe-down, not to mention the 40 wooden cowboy boot key chains.

Donated Beanie Babies came in handy for the little ones, especially considering many families have multiple (up to SIX) children, we had plenty to please. And during the first night's "Minute to Win It" ice-breaking game, well there were those hats that would make the Royal Wedding guests envious!

Nehemiah chapter 3 explains the work assignments of the families. They worked side by side, day and night until the wall was rebuilt. Last week thirty-six volunteers came from across the United States to take part in the "restoration" project sponsored by Joni and Friends San Antonio.

From Florida to Chicago, Kansas to California, they came. They rocked and walked screaming babies, they watered down the slip and slide, they carried plates of food for mother's overwhelmed by the buffet line with 5 toddlers in tow. They inflated the Bouncie House and chased out wasps trying to interfere with the fun. They dished up ice cream for a social, and they served as servants of the Most High by washing feet during "Spa Time."

They made crafts, they played games, they got on horses to ride as chaperons, they put worms on hooks, they cheered as warriors wounded accomplished things as difficult as climbing a rock wall and as simple as line dancing. They did a makeover on one of the teenagers who went to her Senior Prom Saturday night and had her saying, "I never thought or felt like I was beautiful before."

They laughed with them, and they cried.

"We kept at it, repairing and rebuilding the wall. The whole wall was soon joined together and halfway to its intended height because the people had a heart for the work." Nehemiah 4:6 The Message

The rebuilding efforts of all (including YOU) resulted in seven decisions for eternal life, and six recommitments to serve our Lord with new dedication and perseverance. And that is just the first report. A fortified city withstands the enemy and its inhabitants "go forth" and take back enemy territory!

While we were with heroes, halfway around the world, another plan was put in place to take out the villain known as Osama bin Laden. My son called me Sunday night and asked if I had heard the news. We turned on the TV and watched as people gathered in Washington, D. C. chanting USA, USA. I couldn't imagine what they were shouting and cheering at military bases around the world. I couldn't begin to understand how it would impact those we had the privilege of spending the weekend with.

Although Osama was definitely the identified face of evil in this conflict that began on September 11, 2001, there are far more and far greater enemies. I am not referring to "the number two guy, or the number two hundred guy. I do not refer to an ideology or a political strategy or conviction. I am referring to the enemy who is against the children of God 24/7! He is stealing peace of mind, soundness of spirit, breaking up marriages, and destroying sanity to the point of suicide.

He is using unseen weapons that are far more explosive to hearts and souls than IEDs (improvised explosive devises) created in a third world hideout or a hidden Pakistani compound.

"Don't be afraid of them. Put your minds on the Master, great and awesome, and fight for your brothers, sons, daughters, wives, and your homes." Nehemiah 4:14 The Message

We MUST be about the Father's business. I know what the Word says about "the fate of all human beings." The Word plainly states who Jesus is, and was and is to come; THE Way, THE truth, and THE life, NO ONE comes to the Father, but through Him (see John 14:6).

Bin Laden didn't meet 40 virgins Sunday night, he met the King of Kings. From hell, he is probably negotiating and asking for mercy he never showed to the victims of 9-11, and those opposed to his ideology. Even he is most likely asking for someone to go and share the Truth (see Luke 16:22-31)

"And so we keep working, from first light until the stars come out.."

Honoring the armed forces
Serving our God and country
Charlynn

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Loo-ten-ant Dan

2011-04-26T10:58:00.000-05:00

"Anticipating the best, they had sought God - and He showed up..." 2 Chronicles 15:15

I love movies. I love the narrative that takes me to a place I've never explored. Perhaps that is why Forrest Gump makes my top ten list of favorites.

A person the world looked upon as a simpleton, played an important part in many of the iconic events in history. Remember when he was running and wiped the mud off his face with a t-shirt and came up with the "smiley face?" Have a nice day indeedee!

And while the world may not view any one of us as simpleton's, we ARE playing a historic part in His-story. We are the men and women of faith who are serving, giving, and praying to change lives for eternity. We are the soldiers in the battlefield fighting for the souls of men, women and children who need to know REAL everlasting freedom.

Not one champion of faith every lived without asking the big WHY question of God, about something. Whether it was a personal experience or injustice, or just a plain, "I don't get THIS?" moment of bewilderment. It comes to our humanity naturally. The enemy introduced and seduced with a question, "Did God really tell you that?"

In the movie, Forrest saves his lieutenant from death. He carries him out of the battlefield (along with many others wounded). The officer is convinced this was a mistake, he was supposed to die and not be left a double amputee.

Later on, we see another encounter between the two men. An embittered and drunk Loo-ten-ant Dan, meets the ever positive Forrest. He asks Forrest about his faith, unsure and angry about how God could let this happen.

And then one of my many favorite scenes occurs when Loo-ten-ant Dan comes to be Forrest's First Mate on his shrimp boat. Dan hoists himself up the mast and in an angry display rides out the hurricane, shouting up at the heavens, "Is this all you got?"

In the voice over narrative Forrest says, "And God showed up."

Lieutenant Dan was not anticipating the best from God. In fact, in his post-war experience, he felt as if he had received God's worst.

Many of the soldiers and their families arriving Thursday may be having some of those very same sentiments. At the first Wounded Warrior event in 2008, I will never forget what Chaplain Tony said to the volunteers. "The worst thing that can happen to these families is NOT that their loved one will be killed in action, but that they will be injured. These families are living their worst nightmare."

WE (the volunteers, the staff, and YOU the ammunition suppliers) are coming alongside these soldiers and their families for a few days of their long journey toward recovery. Our prayer is to strengthen the faith of those who believe, and to introduce to faith those who are screaming up at the skies in hurt, anger and pain.

God's Word says, He will show up.

"This is God's war, not yours... watch God's saving work for you to take shape. Don't be afraid, don't waver. March out boldly tomorrow - God is with you." 2 Chronicles 20:17 The Message

With the Saints marching on
With a smile too,
Charlynn

Pray for the families who are preparing for the weekend respite

Pray for the children to have fun and opportunities to reconnect

Pray for the staff of Joni and Friends San Antonio who are coming against a mountain of details, changes, and additional unanticipated costs

Pray for the staff of Tapatio Springs. Ownership has changed hands (again) which presents new challenges with people unfamiliar with the work of the Wounded Warrior Getaway

Pray for George Strait (yes, THE George Strait country superstar) who is one of the new owners of Tapatio Springs. Pray his staff alerts him to the project and he catches the vision - providing a place for the soldiers and their families AT NO COST to the ministry (the soldiers always come free of charge)

Pray for the volunteers who will be challenged with many injured men and women. Pray they see with the eyes of the Father, the hearts that need love and healing.

Pray for opportunities to show the love of our King in extraordinary ways

Pray for the speakers Clebe and Deanna McClary to be a "balm from Gilead"

Pray, and then pray!
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Firefly

2011-04-25T12:23:00.000-05:00

"This is no afternoon athletic contest that we'll walk away from and forget about in a couple of hours. This is for keeps, a life-or-death fight to the finish against the devil and all his angels." Ephesians 6:12 The Message

If you are not familiar with the sci-fi series "Firefly," let me be the first to recommend it. It stars Nathan Fillion (now appearing on the ABC show "Castle") as a 25th Century Robinhood. It's campy, not at all like Star Trek or other series in the genre, and perhaps that is what caused its untimely cancellation. I took it with me on the "Road Warrior for Real Warriors" RV trip as a distraction at the end of a long day's journey. What could be more entertaining than space cowboys fighting evil aliens?

In one of the first episodes, the rag-tag band of celestial thieves happen to acquire something from some really bad Bad Guys. They get into a fight and appear to have the upper hand. They make for a hasty escape with the bad Baddies hot on their space cowboy boot heels.

And as in all good Western thrillers, the good guys run right to the edge of a canyon cliff. Uh oh! They turn to face their certain doom, hands held high and begin to negotiate for...

freedom.

You know it's not going to end well, but wait - it can't end badly because this is just the beginning of the "story." They can't meet their Maker yet! The bad Baddies approach, weapons raised, locked and loaded. "Come on fellows," our negotiating hero begins. A pale look comes over the face of the bad guys. They drop their weapons, turn tale and run for the hills.

The protagonist laughs. "Gee, I really am charming." What he doesn't realize is right behind him their HUGE Firefly spaceship has arrived, just in the nick of time. It wasn't the captain that thwarted the enemy - it was the Carrier.

"Those who are with us are more than those who are with them." 2 Kings 6:16

Some of the comments I received after the final report from the road (see Peligroso!) referenced the account in Scripture of the massive army of angels and chariots of fire, that were standing ready to go into battle on behalf of Israel. When I talked with my son about why he thought the "baddies" turned tale and ran - he quickly said he had no idea. Perhaps, as with Elisha's servant, the Lord opened their eyes and they saw the multitude of warriors standing guard ready to make war!

There has traditionally been a sense of pride about being an American and our ability to defend the defenseless and willingness to fight for freedom. I don't think the Founding Fathers based that on who they were as individuals but the Judeo-Christian moral foundation that inspired and formed their Declaration. It was not about "one," but The One, that revolutionized and formed a nation.

On this day after Easter Sunday, I am wrapping up preparations for my eighth Wounded Warrior Getaway (sponsored by Joni and Friends - San Antonio). The day we celebrate the resurrection is a great encouragement and reminder of the freedom bought and paid for "while we were yet sinners." The risen Christ is our "carrier;" showing up not because we deserve it, but because of His nature and promise. "I will be with you always, even to the end of the age."

My prayer for the upcoming week with the soldiers and their families is to be a healing balm of love, laughter and joy. I am honored and humbled by the strength, courage and sacrifice of these brave men and women, their families and children.

"And that about wraps it up. God is strong, and He wants you strong. So take everything the Master has set out for you, well-made weapons of the best materials. And put them to use so you will be able to stand up to everything the devil throws your way." Ephesians 6:10 The Message

Still smiling in His service
Preparing for the battle
Charlynn

Pray for the families attending

Pray for the volunteers serving

Pray for the Joni and Friends staff as they make final preparations for the weekend

Pray for the speakers Clebe and Deanna McClary for their message of hope and freedom found in Christ

Pray for the creative Spirit to inspire me today as I create yet another new way to bring smiles and laughter into the weekend

Pray for travel mercies for all (families, volunteers and speakers) to be safe

Pray for yourselves - the enemy always tries to cut off the ammunition supply (intercessory prayer) in a multitude of ways. Be about the Master's business!

We are MORE than conquerors

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Peligroso!

2011-04-19T13:13:00.000-05:00

Danger!

A few days ago, we were all laughing about the return drive from Comitan that had me yelling out the window for the riders in the back of the pickup truck to "Hold on." In the darkness on the back road to Las Margaritas, the speed bumps and other dangerous things were hard to see.

Little did I know, that same day a thousand miles away, on a different back road in Texas my son was encountering a very real and visible danger.

While the two cyclists (Road Warrior for Real Warriors) were outside La Grange on a two lane road, two men drove slowly past them. When they crossed a railroad track the men blasted their horns continuously at them. My son Alec looked back as if to say, "Really, your honking at us out here in the middle of nowhere?"

They called to the RV driver that he needed to turn around (he was about 10 miles ahead). The other cyclist went inside and retrieved the small pistol they had packed for "times such as this." They didn't let the driver know what had happened, they got back on their bikes and rode on.

A few miles down the road, they saw the truck blocking the road. They stopped, and got off their bikes. Lee handed my son the gun and said, "put a bullet in the chamber." Alec did, and then put the weapon in the back pocket of his cycling shirt. They got back on their bikes unsure of what was about to happen, but knowing they were at least protected.

As Alec related to me this morning, they really didn't know if the men saw the gun, or what - but for some reason, they got back in their vehicle and drove away.

As the mother of one of the riders, I praise God for His perfect protection and provision. As the daughter of the King, I know His angels were set as charge over them.

"Evil can't get close to you, harm can't get through the door. He ordered His angels to guard you wherever you go. If you stumble they'll catch you; their JOB is to keep you from falling. You'll walk (or ride bicycles) unharmed..." Psalm 91:11-13 The Message

Thank you for praying without ceasing! Even if you were not consciously praying on Friday - the Holy Spirit was! Those prayers were heard and answered in more ways than we will ever know this side of heaven. They were answered on a back road in Texas just as they were answered on the back roads in Chiapas.

This "event" spurred the cyclists on to speed up and get the journey over with. Last night when I arrived from Mexico, my youngest son picked us up from the airport and told me they had finished their 1200 mile "adventure" and were on their way back to Dallas, a day ahead of schedule.

They were "a day" ahead of the wildfires that have decimated over 650,000 acres in West Texas. They were right on time in God's plan.

"One more thing friends: Pray for us. Pray that the Master's Word will simply take off and race through the country to a groundswell of response, just as it did among you. And pray that we'll be rescued from these scoundrels who are trying to do us in." 2 Thessalonians 3:1-2 The Message

It was quite a journey, and had its share of danger. However, it pales by comparison to what the men and women serving in the armed forces face each and every day on foreign soil to fight, defend, and protect freedom. The purpose of a 1200 mile bike ride across Texas was not to show physical strength, prowess or endurance but to raise awareness for the Wounded Warrior Joni and Friends event next week, and to honor in a small way those affected by the ongoing conflict in Iraq and Afghanistan.

There is still time to show your support of the "Road Warrior for Real Warriors."

Make a donation per mile (1200 miles COMPLETED) or a set gift amount. 100% of the money raised on behalf of Joni and Friends San Antonio Office will be used for the soldiers and their families attending. It will help offset the costs of a family (roughly $2000 per family) or sponsor the trail ride and additional day (approximately $1500) or provide for additional families on the waiting list to attend.

Make checks payable to:
Joni and Friends San Antonio
1370 Pantheon Way
Suite 165
San Antonio, TX 78232
In the Memo write: Road Warrior

Or to make a donation online visit our website:
www.sunshineafterrain.org
In the special note section put: Road Warrior

Knowing He is fighting for me!

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Rich or What?

2011-04-18T10:37:00.000-05:00

"You will be made rich in every way so that you can be generous on every occasion, and through us your generosity will result in thanksgiving to God. ..." 2 Corinthians 9:11

The last night in Las Margaritas, the Pastor stood and gave his thanks for our visit. Since I don't speak Spanish, there were only a few words that I understood during his heart-felt speech. But what needed no interpretation were the tears of gratitude that ran down his cheeks when he shared he had been praying for 5 months for the Lord to send someone to partner with his church to win souls in the region. It was at the end of those 5 months that he met Sergio and Beth Matassa, and the rest - as it is said in English - "is history."

He then began to address Vicki and I about what he saw in the training of the church lay leaders and the outpouring of the Spirit during the last program. "I don't know if they are rich or what," he went on to say. "But they did not ask anything of our church for this training. They just came and gave us this great gift." He asked if they could pray for our work and travels.

The church gathered around us and through tears of thanksgiving they prayed. It just doesn't get much better than that.

As the evening closed, the workers we trained all came up to hug us, shake our hands and express their thanks. One of the youngest said, "Please know that we have no way to repay you for what you have done for us. We all wanted to work with children but we didn't know how. Your labor of love will produce a great harvest!"

Vicki spoke up and said, "we are not rich, it is through the supply of our God and many people that we are able to come and do these things."

That means YOU!

We are able to go, because you have been faithful to send. You helped answer the prayers of a Pastor in a small church in Las Margaritas. Here, near the border of Guatemala, in a country many mission organizations have had to forgo travel to, prayers were heard and answered.

Thank you for helping us reach over 300 children and adults. Thank you for helping train and disciple children's ministry leaders to reach the village children long after we have left.

"Your gifts have resulted in many thanksgivings to God."

On the way again
Charlynn

Pray for our safety returning to the states

Pray for our health as we both will be serving at the Wounded Warrior Getaway

Pray for the luggage as always

Pray for the workers - the Harvest is white but the workers are few. Pastors all over the world are praying for help.

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Agarence!

2011-04-16T11:55:00.000-05:00

It was well past sunset when we returned to Las Margaritas from our afternoon program in Comitan.

"Agarence! Topay!"

I kept shouting from the passenger side window of our '94 Ford to the ten church workers perched precariously in the pickup bed. The person riding shotgun apparently is assigned the job of spotting for the driver.

In case you don't speak Spanish (like a few of us down here in Chiapas), "agarence" means "hold on!" And "topay" is the Mexican equivalent for speed bump.

The hermanos y hermanas (Brothers and Sisters) laughed hysterically at each of my pronunciation attempts. I even began making up words for the speed bumps, "togobogo" (I must have been thinking about buy one get one free shopping). "Telly Savalas" (think bald man in the road). However, I have discovered, any word said with the right accent and enthusiasm is understood.

That is really the message we have been trying to communicate to our "disciples." The love of God uses much more than words. The love of God translates across language barriers, cultural differences, or disabilities.

"If I speak in the tongues of men and angels but have not love, I am only a resounding gong or clanging cymbal." 1 Corinthians 13:1

The program in Comitan went well, with the church workers handling the games, songs and the craft. They also prayed individually with the children as we closed.

Today, the program will be completely orchestrated by the nationals. They seemed a bit apprehensive about taking over, but we came to train and empower the local body of believers to reach out through children's ministry and advance the Kingdom.

"And now I will show you the most excellent way." 1 Corinthians 12:31

Loving the people of Mexico!

"What a huge harvest! He said to His disciples. "How few workers! On your knees and pray for harvest hands!" Matthew 9:38 The Message

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Outside Marathon

2011-04-14T23:45:00.000-05:00

"This is the only race worth running..." 2 Timothy 4:7 The Message

The last day I was the designated driver for the "Road Warrior for Real Warriors" journey of 1200 miles across Texas, we were to meet up with the new driver flying in for the "switch" just outside the city of Marathon.

The winds were blowing hard with gusts up to 35 miles per hour. The awning on the RV once again unfurled and whipped around like a sail in the ocean with a novice captain and crew. Not much fun for driver or riders to be sure.

I pulled over about 10 miles before our destination, unsure if the cyclists could even go the distance - Marathon. By the time they arrived, wind blown and ready for a short break, two cyclists heading West (we were headed East) were coming up the road.

They crossed the highway to greet us and compare notes on the journey behind them and get information on the journey ahead. It turns out the elderly (and by that I mean much older than me) couple were from The Netherlands traveling 10,000 kilometers! Roughly 6,500 miles. Why?

"...I've run hard right to the finish, believed all the way..."

There were no people standing on the sidelines cheering them on. They weren't out to share a cause, raise awareness, make a point for or against anything. They were just riding across the continent. They had the time, the resources and the stamina to do so. But really, why would anyone do such a thing?

When I told people I was returning to Mexico, I was met with many questions and downright disbelief? "Really, Mexico? Why? Don't you know how dangerous it is?"

In my years of ministry, believe me I have stopped, just "outside Marathon" many times. I have had to regroup, assess damage and determine to press on. I have had to answer the "why" question over and over again. But, I have also shared blessed encounters with fellow missionaries who "cross the road" and encourage me to go the distance.

"...All that's left is the shouting - God's applause."

Here in Las Margaritas, I am running the race He has set before me. Our team is equipping the local lay leadership. We are sharing the love of Christ with indigenous children and adults. We are giving the message of hope in barrios filled with hopelessness. We will keep the faith. Our final destination is much farther than Marathon, it is the Kingdom to come!

"I don't know about you, but I'm running hard for the finish line. I'm giving it everything I've got." 1 Corinthians 9:26 The Message

Tying my running shoes on and thinking of the little girl who did not ask for candy, but for shoes to cover her bare feet.

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For My Sake

2011-04-14T12:44:00.000-05:00

"We have left everything to follow you! What then will there be for us?" Jesus said to them, "I tell you the truth anyone who has left houses or brothers or sisters or father or mother or children or fields for My sake will receive a hundred times as much..." Matthew 19:27-29

Yesterday, we received some sad news from back home. The passing of a dear friend. Both of our hearts are to be with the family and friends that will be celebrating his home-going this weekend. Yet we find ourselves a thousand miles away in the harvest field.

As we were praying for comfort and peace for our friends' loss I was reminded of this verse. For the sake of His name we have gone into the harvest so there will be an even greater welcoming committee for those who go before us.

Today we will travel out to the village and present a program for the indigenous children. We will be joined by many of the nationals that attended the training session yesterday to watch our presentation. Tomorrow they will do the program and we will assist and then on Saturday they will do the entire presentation

Our goal is to fulfill the Great Commission by raising up disciples to increase the harvest of our King!

Sowing seeds

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Vaya on Dios

2011-04-11T06:37:00.000-05:00

"Go with God"

It is the only way to go. Overnight strong storms hit the DFW area. It helped the current severe drought situation, but has yet to quench the wildfires that are blazing across Texas. My last night with the "Road Warrior for Real Warriors" team was spent in Fort Davis. The evening news reported 70 homes have burned there. In my walk around the town, I don't remember even seeing 70 homes.

Things and circumstances can change as quickly as a spring storm coming in or a wildfire out of control. That is why it is critical to know where you stand in relationship with a Holy God. That is why I come and go and go again, to share with as many as I can the salvation knowledge in Christ.

I leave this morning for a week in Chiapas, Mexico. Please pray for safety, for luggage issues (always) for travel mercies, and continue to pray for my son Alec, pedaling across Texas against the wind!

Smiling and flying
In His service

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Look Up

2011-04-06T21:42:00.000-05:00

People seem to consistently ask me if I have trouble with jet-lag. By the grace of God, herbs and pharmaceuticals I can reply that I don't. But the whole daylight saving time throws me every spring and fall.

The Road Warriors were trying to make up some miles today and it was getting late. Alec reminded me it wouldn't get dark until 8:21 so they would have that long to ride. When looking at the map we all noted that the last 18 miles of the day were on the highway. Not a very settling thought when you see 18-wheelers zooming by at 80 mph! I was just 6 miles ahead of them waiting at the last exit before the highway trek began and sent out the call for prayer. While I fully trust ALL to the hands of the Father, face it, guys can make some pretty unwise choices (sorry guys). I wanted them to make the right, safe choice influenced by prayer!

It worked, along with the panic-striken look on my face. They ended the day at 77 miles safe and not sorry.

In response to my plea, one of my friends posted about the beauty of the Texas night sky. As we headed back to the KOA campground, I took in the sunset behind the mountains. I remarked to Alec, I hadn't noticed this area on the drive from Dallas. "This must have been where I was keeping my eye on the "sail.""

Isn't that just like us too many times. The circumstances of our lives obscure the view all around us. Our thoughts are so focused on the problem, the pain or the persistent voice that says "this" will never get better, that we forget to take in the scenery.

I walked outside where the two men sit exchanging stories and was welcomed heartily. "Join us, were just chatting, no bad jokes we promise." I told them I was just out to see the stars my friend had commented on. "Too bad, the clouds just rolled in, not much to see now."

I smiled because I know, "Clouds are the dust of His feet." Nahum 1:3

Tomorrow will be a long ride through the Davis Mountains. Again, pray for safety on the roads, for my driving (I get anxious on mountain roads as many of my friends will attest), and for continued awareness for the Wounded Warrior Getaway and the families that will be attending.

"Thank the miracle-working God,
His love never quits
The God whose skill formed the cosmos,
His love never quits" Psalm 136:4 The Message

Support the cause:
Financial donations (per mile or specific amount) can be made to the Joni and Friends San Antonio office.

In the memo, write:
Road Warrior/Alec Johns
Joni and Friends San Antonio
1370 Pantheon Way #165
San Antonio, TX 78232

To make a donation online by credit card please visit our website:
www.sunshineafterrain.org

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Road Warriors Immediate Update!

2011-04-06T18:05:00.000-05:00

"No weapon formed against you shall prosper."

It is the close of Day Two and the cyclists are making their last 38 miles (to bring the total for the day to 88)! The last 18 are on the open Interstate 10.

Pray against any flying debris (including bugs which my son seems to be a magnet for). Pray for safety, the wind and the terrain.

This is no "joy" ride. It is a ride to help raise awareness and finances for the Joni and Friends San Antonio office Wounded Warrior Getaway April 27-May 1. It will bring joy to the families, and minister to their souls. A small way to say thank you and honor our service men and women and their families for the daily WILLING sacrifice they make to keep us free.

Our PAGE only has 13 "likes" come on show the love!

Follow us on FACEBOOK -
"Road Warrior for Real Warriors"

Support the cause:
Financial donations (per mile or specific amount) can be made to the Joni and Friends San Antonio office.

In the memo, write:
Road Warrior/Alec Johns
Joni and Friends San Antonio
1370 Pantheon Way #165
San Antonio, TX 78232

To make a donation online by credit card please visit our website:
www.sunshineafterrain.org

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Googlee-eyed

2011-04-06T00:14:00.000-05:00

"Your teacher will be right there, local and on the job, urging you on whenever you wander left or right: "This is the right road." Isaiah 30:21 The Message

I made it!

More importantly the Road Warriors covered 77 miles today without incident or accident, in spite of a later than anticipated start.

If you happened to check your email you might have sensed my state of high-anxiety about driving this monstrous metal machine down the Texas highway. The second biker (Lee) remarked at my composure (or lack thereof) by asking why I didn't drive some of the 650 miles from Dallas. "Wouldn't that have been a good idea? I'm just saying," he wryly added while strapping on his cycle helmet confident his day was about to be a great deal tougher than mine.

"Why, yes - what a fabulous thought IF WE HADN'T BEEN DRIVING THROUGH A HURRICANE FOR THE LAST TWO DAYS." Foot about to be attached to bicycle pedal first went in mouth.

But technology was on my side today. After watching me fumble and sweat on Alec's iPad, he redeemed himself by offering to leave his cell phone Garmin. "His what?" you might be saying as did I. "Look, it will talk to you while you're driving. I'll just punch in the city and the voice of a nice calm lady will tell you which way to turn and just where to exit. If you make a mistake, she will adjust the directions for you. You won't have any problem at all."

He was right. Between God, the Garmin and some "nice lady voice," I didn't.

During our two day drive here, Alec was busy checking camping locations using the latest greatest technological advancement I think since the WHEEL! Schooling me with the modern marvel known as an iPad, he said, "Look mom, all we have to do is touch Maps, then hit the little locator button. Now watch the little blue bean flashing on the screen. That's us driving down the road see it move? Now move your fingers across the screen to zoom in."

It was crazy. I felt like a James Bond girl. Well, at least Mrs. Moneypenny with a fancy spy gadget. With this thing you can actually place a point on the map and zoom down to street level and take a 360• look around. And then zoom back out to see all of Texas or the world for that matter. I am officially "googlee-eyed" by Google by George!

"I look up at Your macro-skies, dark and enormous, Your hand-made sky jewelry, moon and stars mounted in their settings. Then I look at my micro-self and wonder, why do You bother with us? Why take a second look our way? Psalm 8:4 The Message

In the year of our Lord 2011, we were able to watch ourselves move across the road utilizing a satellite that beamed information to an unattached flat screen sitting on my lap. If we can do that - how much more can the Creator of the Universe do?! Count the number of hairs on my head indeed!

We had to drive 50 miles from their stopping point just to reach a camp ground. There is NOTHING out here (Google Map confirms). We will drive back tomorrow morning, I will drive forward for 20 or so miles and try and stop inconspicuously on the service road, wave at the passing Border Patrol vehicles and wait. AND pray.

There is a stretch of the journey where there is no side road for the cyclists and they must use the actual Interstate 10. The legal speed limit is 80 mph making for some dangerous travel time. Pray for safety, discernment and continued strength.

"You who sit down in the High-God's presence, spend the night in Shaddai's shadow, say this, "God, You're my refuge. I trust in you and I'm safe!" Psalm 91:1

I'm also smiling
In His service
Charlynn

Support the cause:
Financial donations (per mile or specific amount) can be made to the Joni and Friends San Antonio office.

In the memo, write:
Road Warrior/Alec Johns
Joni and Friends San Antonio
1370 Pantheon Way #165
San Antonio, TX 78232

To make a donation online by credit card please visit our website:
www.sunshineafterrain.org

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John Muir and Winds in the Wasteland

2011-04-05T11:23:00.000-05:00

"...surely He is the Son of God, even the winds and the waves obey Him."

Sometimes, you just have to know what you know and the rest...

lean in!

Yesterday, we drove against a wind worthy of every stanza of Bob Seger's song. It was wild, woolly, and well... comical. Alec had me looking out the side window keeping an eye on our "sail." After the second time we had to exit (as a man was flagging us down with a frenzy worthy of the America's Cup Sailing Championship), I said, "I need to send out an email and get people praying."

Once the prayers started although the wind didn't die down, Alec's remark was, "It feels like we're in this little God Bubble. I still see the wind but it's not so hard driving the RV. The awning never unfurled again!

We arrived in El Paso in the early afternoon, checked in to the airport hotel and waited for the second bike rider to arrive later in the evening. The first phone call came about the time the plane was scheduled to depart DFW. "There has been a delay, some problem with the plane, 45 minutes at least until take off."

There is a famous story about the naturalist John Muir while he was in Yosemite. In the midst of a blinding storm he went out to the porch of his cabin, grabbed hold of a tree and watched and felt the full force of the wind. He wanted to experience it all!

When the second phone call came, I knew it was going to be a John Muir kind of night.

"After we changed planes, as we taxied out toward the runway a fork lift hit the wing and we had to turn back. I'm not going to take the next flight because it won't get me to El Paso until after 1:00 am. I will take the flight in the morning."

Come on! How many times have you ever heard of a fork lift hitting an airplane?

Alec and I both climbed the theoretical tree of circumstance and leaned in.

Today is the most challenging part of the bike ride. The riders leave from downtown El Paso and head through several outlying towns on regular heavily trafficked roads. They are not the safest roads or neighborhoods. Originally the plan was to leave very early this morning to get "through" those areas before traffic and people could pose a danger. Now, they most likely will be on the bikes by 3:00 and ride during the beginning of rush hour. (El Paso is Mountain Time an hour ahead of Dallas and Central Time Zone)

So it goes.

The wind blows where it wants; while we hang on.

There is no accident (a FORKLIFT hitting the second plane) or circumstance that He is not sovereignly in control over.

Pray for MY first experience driving the RV. The current plan is the guys will drive downtown, get the bikes out and start the journey. I will drive the same road ahead of them, although I would like to just drive at the same speed they are riding (roughly 18 miles per hour) I will be about 30 minutes ahead at any given time.

Pray for the safety of the riders.

Pray for the road and weather conditions.

This delay puts the "schedule" off of course, and while there will be days to make up the mileage the issue here in the West Texas wastelands is there is nothing. No campgrounds, few towns and a great deal of "border" issues.

This IS Texas, and we do all have firearms, but...

It is a perfect plan, and good practice at being flexible. Like our "sailing" experience yesterday, today promises to be one heck of a ride!

This is an adventure to be sure, but it is not without purpose. The goal of my son's physical challenge for himself was to raise awareness and finances for the Wounded Warrior Getaway in San Antonio, sponsored by Joni and Friends.

Alec was deeply moved when he participated with me in the spring of 2009 and again in the fall of 2010. Since that time he has often remarked how grateful he is to the men and women who serve our nation. Tying this "road trip" to help get the word out about the event (April 27-May 1) as well as offer people an opportunity to participate financially to help Warrior families attend the event without cost is the sole purpose of "Road Warrior for Real Warriors." When he discussed it with me, he remarked, "When I am having a hard day on the bike, dog-tired trying to make it up the next hill, or go the extra miles - all I have to do is think about the men and women who are putting their life on the line for ME. They are eating the dust and dirt of Iraq and Afghanistan so I can be free! Their families are missing birthdays and holidays so I can get on a stupid bike in Texas and ride. I can do this - I will do this."

Whatever way the winds of your life are currently blowing, cool across your face after a spring rain or like a hurricane sweeping away every ounce of hope, lean in. It cost a soldier and his/her family dearly for you to do so in the Land of the Free and the Home of the Brave.

Soldiering on for all the soldiers I deeply cherish and love,
Charlynn

Support the cause:
Financial donations (per mile or specific amount) can be made to the Joni and Friends San Antonio office.

In the memo, write:

Road Warrior/Alec Johns
Joni and Friends San Antonio
1370 Pantheon Way #165
San Antonio, TX 78232

To make a donation online by credit card please visit our website:

www.sunshineafterrain.org

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Wake Up!

2011-04-04T11:30:00.000-05:00

The "Road Warrior for Real Warriors" adventure has begun. Alec and I drove south of Dallas to Lee's (the other cyclist) and finished loading up our house on wheels for the next two weeks. I will only be driving the first portion of the journey. As I said, this is the most dangerous. It skirts the Texas-Mexico border and is in wide-open territory. In other words, lots of places for illegal activity.

Today, there are high gusty winds coming across the Texas plains. Alec said it feels like he is driving a bus while the Jolly Green Giant is trying to push us over! It's a fight with the wheel, with the road and with the 18-wheelers that whiz by.

It reminded me of the disciples on the Sea of Galilee in the midst of the storm. They were fighting against the elements. Finally, with Jesus asleep in the bow, they yelled, "Wake up! Don't you care we are about to drown?"

Jesus stood up and held His hands to command the winds, "Peace be still." And the winds and the waves obeyed.

Wake Him up for us. We need these winds to calm down. I sense His presence. Now I want to see His power!

The answer my friends, I'm blowing in the wind.

But you can know I have a smile on my face because I am in His service!
Charlynn

Follow us on FACEBOOK - "Road Warrior for Real Warriors"

Support the cause:

Financial donations (per mile or specific amount) can be made to the Joni and Friends San Antonio office. In the memo, write: Road Warrior/Alec Johns

Joni and Friends San Antonio
1370 Pantheon Way #165
San Antonio, TX 78232"

To make a donation online by credit card please visit our website:
www.sunshineafterrain.org

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Bob Seger and the Dust Bowl Bites!

2011-04-04T11:23:00.000-05:00

"...I find myself seeking shelter against the wind, against the wind..."

We have our first injury on the road!

The gusting winds caught the awning, unrolled it, rolled it, unrolled, whipped it like a dessert topping and scared us half to death with the noise.

It was obvious we couldn't make it 347 miles with this instant "RV to Sailboat" conversion happening so we pulled over on the side of the West Texas highway.

Motherly instincts kick in way before 10 mile an hour winds. I watched as Alec climbed the 13 foot monster and thought of my friend who had fallen from the top of one after a camping trip. Lord help us. It was as horrible as comical; the two of us shouting over the winds, squinting to keep the dust from our eyes and trying to muster some form of engineering intelligence to figure out "what are we going to do?"

In the process of the awning taking on a "life of it's own" rolling up and down in the Texas tornado, Alec's hand got caught in the canvas.

"#*$":;/?!!!!%," he said.

"Are you hurt?" "Yes" "Are you bleeding?" "Yes"

*#?:;_+@$?!" I said.

Fortunately it's not too bad. Bandages and boy scout readiness come in handy!

Please pray for the wind to ease up! It is going to be a long hard day of driving against the wind in a vehicle trying to transmogrify into a boat.

Our early morning start will help but nothing could have prepared us for this wind! We're just past Odessa and I see why this part of the Texas plains was known as the Dust Bowl. The visibility is less than ten miles. A fog of dirt and sand is whipping around us like a cowboy at a roping contest.

We will have to stop several times to try and reroll the awning and calm the drivers around us. We just got flagged down by a concerned motorist. We tried to tell him (using hand signals) we do realize we are sailing more than driving.

Ships ahoy!
Pray for the sailors!
Arrgh (she said with a smile),
Charlynn

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Gaius and Other Good Friends

2011-03-30T13:06:00.001-05:00

"The Pastor, to my good friend Gaius..." 3 John 1

When I come across the same reference to something or someone in the Bible in the span of a few short days, I take notice and note. The third letter of the Apostle John begins by addressing a particular individual by name, Gaius (and I thought I had a strange name). Even though this letter is personalized, the greeting and prayer apply to us today.

Perhaps when you read the subject title you thought, "Who the heck is Gaius?" And though I've studied and read "Gaius" many times when passing through 3 John, I thought "Gaius, who ARE you?"

This past Sunday, the sermon was focused on Gaius. And today, the notes concerning the passage I was reading in 1 Kings about Solomon referenced, you guessed it - Gaius!

John greeted his friend with a prayer. A prayer for good fortune in everything he did, for health, that his everyday affairs prosper, as well as his soul." I want that answered for myself and for you - MY good friends! Next week I begin a month long adventure with a few days in between. First, I set off for West Texas to drive the support vehicle for my oldest son's fundraiser (Road Warrior for Real Warriors*) to raise money and awareness for the Joni and Friends Wounded Warrior project at the end of the month.

I get back on Saturday the 9th and leave for Mexico on Monday the 11th. I am returning to the same area (Chiapas) to work with the East West missionaries in children's outreach programs and training the nationals.

Less than a week after that, I'll be headed down to San Antonio for my ninth Wounded Warrior Getaway. Good friends (none of whom are named Gaius), John said,

"You will do well to send them on their journey in a manner worthy of God. For they have gone out for the sake of the Name..." 3 John 6-7

These are tough times. Ministry financial giving is at an all-time low. This is true for non-profits across the nation, not just our ministry. I understand the "need," but I remain committed to the cause. For the sake of the Gospel, I continue to go and share the good news. For the sake of the Name, I have tightened the financial belt, and understand that eternal security is "priceless."

"Therefore we ought to support people like these, that we may be fellow workers for the Truth." 3 John 8

Your support is vital to the mission and makes you (like Gaius) a fellow worker for the Truth. Your support gets the Word out "while there is still time."

I watched in horror with the rest of the world, as the tsunami wave swept away everything in its path in Japan. The most prepared nation in the world for earthquakes could never have prepared adequately for what happened. CNN reports during the catastrophe stated 90% of Japanese are Shinto Buddhists. There were even reports of "how their faith" will help during this crisis.

We understand the Truth, and His plan is for all peoples on earth to hear the Good News. The end came unexpectedly for the people caught up in the devastating natural disaster. Jesus gave us the Great Commission because He wants the world to know His love, He wants no one to be caught unaware (2 Peter 3:8-9).

I don't have any friends named Gaius, I am sure you don't either. But we DO have a friend named Jesus, and He is praying on our behalf, that we have good fortune, health, and for our soul to prosper in every way!

On the road again

"I've named you friends..." John 15:15

To participate financially in our April showers of blessing campaign, you can donate online with a credit card by visiting our website: www.sunshineafterrain.org

VISIT FACEBOOK: *Be sure to "LIKE" the page "Road Warrior for Real Warriors" to follow the journey on FaceBook.

CALENDAR OF EVENTS - APRIL

2011-03-30T12:00:00.004-05:00

ROAD WARRIOR FOR REAL WARRIORS
April 3
Depart Dallas for El Paso

April 4
Arrive in El Paso

April 5-8
Support Vehicle drive

April 9
Return to Dallas
To be determined method of transport!

CHIAPAS, MEXICO
April 11
Depart DFW For Mexico

April 12
Travel from San Cristobal to Los Margaritas

April 13
Training Seminar for Nationals

April 14
Children's outreach

April 15
Children's outreach

April 16
Children's outreach

April 17
Travel from Los Margaritas to San Cristobal

April 18
Depart Mexico for DFW
(*Road Warrior for Real Warriors continues until the 18th of April)

WOUNDED WARRIOR GETAWAY
Joni and Friends
April 27
Travel to San Antonio set up at Retreat Center

April 28
Warriors and families arrive
Evening Programs

April 29
Morning Activities
Family Time
Evening Activities

April 30
Morning Activities
Family Time Evening
Activities

May 1
Morning Worship with Families
Closing Activities

Act of God

2011-02-04T12:49:00.000-06:00

"We planned as thoroughly as we could. But this is clearly an "act of God."" Superbowl XLV Committee Member

It is THE Superbowl weekend, here in Dallas, Texas and I feel bad. I'm not sick, but like most North Texans I am, as the saying goes, "under the weather."

We seldom see ice and snow in the winter where I live, so when it does come the city virtually shuts down. All the major school districts have been closed an unprecedented four consecutive days. Television channels are broadcasting continuous weather coverage and traffic reports. News anchors are encouraging people "if you don't HAVE to go out, stay home and stay warm."

I know it's not as bad in Dallas as the scenes from Chicago's Lake Shore Drive, where cars were buried in snow drifts. My friends in Montana laughed when I told them it was 18• here. "It's -18, where we are." What makes the situation and me feel bad is, IT'S SUPERBOWL WEEKEND!

My apartment faces the busy north-south highway that runs through downtown Dallas. Normally, the traffic noise is a steady hum outside my window. The first few weeks after I moved in, I had to look outside to check and see if it was rain that I was hearing - the noise was so consistent and constant. This morning there was complete silence. I opened the front door and the quiet stillness coupled with the falling snow made me gasp. Not one car or truck on the freeway, and a white blanket covering the parking lot. Act of God indeed!

The new Dallas Cowboy Stadium holds close to 100,000 people. It is a sell out crowd this weekend. That means there will 100,000 fans, plus news casters, radio personalities, and celebrities trying to make it to THE game in THIS mess!

Both teams playing on Sunday are from cities where weather like this is common winter fare. I am sure they find our histrionics amusing. The "fans" are scheduled to begin arriving en mass today, but our airports have been experiencing severe delays and hundreds of flight cancellations. The fans are sure to arrive, just as the stadium is sure to be packed to capacity this Sunday. After all, it is the Superbowl, act of God aside.

I am not a fan of either team, and I am no fan of ice and snow. I have watched (continuous coverage) the traffic and seen countless vehicles in ditches. I murmur, "Are people crazy? Don't they know to stay home!" But this is an event, there are parties to attend, places to go, people to see. The world will be watching, and I am sure the "act of God" will be mentioned in every broadcast.

I've thought about this (sequestered in my warm abode the past four days) and wondered about fan loyalty. Rain or shine, ice or snow, if you bought a ticket to the Superbowl (lowest price $450 a "nose bleed seat") you are going to be there.

"For God so loved the world, He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believes in Him, shall not perish, but have everlasting life."

Act of God

The command of the Great Commission to "GO" is more than a free ticket to the Superbowl. We have to be willing, whatever the circumstances, to share THE "act of God." Too many of us stay warm and comfortable in our pews, looking on the lost as crazy; they should know better!

But they don't.

"But how can people call for help if they don't know who to trust? And how can they know who to trust if they haven't heard of the One who can be trusted? And how can they hear if nobody tells them? And how is anyone going to tell then, unless someone is sent to do it?" Romans 10:14 The Message

Thankful you have helped send me!

Counting down to the big event,
Maranatha

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Sargent Joe Friday

2011-01-31T11:40:00.000-06:00

Years have past since the TV show Dragnet was a favorite choice in the nightly line-up. Many who read the title might have no clue as to the contents. But for those of you "baby boomers" out there who are in my same age range, when you read the name you could here the distinctive baritone voice say, "Just the facts, mam, that's all we need, just the facts."

I returned from Mexico safe and sound with no incidents, save for a fee at the airport on our luggage. Both Vicki and I were concerned the amount of coffee we were bringing in to the USA (not enough to open a java house but could be construed as intentions to distribute!) would be confiscated in customs. Thankfully, no problemo.

During our time in Chiapas, we ministered to over 500 children and adults in the San Cristobal area and surrounding villages. We also conducted a training of lay leaders on our last day to equip them in techniques for childrens' ministry. A good time was had by all, the Kingdom advanced and the Name above all names was glorified.

As I was unpacking and getting through mail, emails, and laundry, three breaking news story interrupted regular programming. Interesting news day indeed. Throughout the day, I kept an eye on the stories (a reported child abduction, a gunman entering a medical facility and a suspicious package found near the Superbowl stadium). I also heard the State Department has issued another warning for all Americans not to travel to Mexico due to the drug cartel violence.

These are the facts:

30,000 murders since the military offensive against the drug cartels began in 2006 (Six times as many deaths of our soldiers fighting a declared war in Iraq and Afghanistan)

15 decapitated bodies found in Acapulco the week before we arrived in Chiapas. 13 more bodies were found around the city

Nancy Davis, a missionary to Mexico was fatally shot in the head the day we left (January 26)

"For God so loved the WORLD HE GAVE His only begotten Son, that whosoever, believeth in Him shall have everlasting life." John 3:16

That is the truth. The Word of God declares "the Truth will set us free!"

Many people were disturbed (and prayerful I hope) when I "broke the news" of my mission to Mexico; knowing many of the "facts" indeed made me very prayerful as well. But knowing the "Truth," sent me on my way without reservations or fear.

Just a day after my return a devotional came across my "virtual" desk (through email). It was timely and affirming.

"When such situations hit us and we allow the facts to settle in our hearts, we end up feeling greatly troubled. But when we let the truths of God's Word settle them all, we will sense the Holy Spirit bearing witness to the truths that we are believing. He is the Spirit of truth. (John 16:13) He is not the Spirit of facts and does not bear witness to facts...

What is the difference between fact and truth? Facts change, but truth — God's Word — remains! When God's people choose to defy the facts and walk instead in His truths regarding their situations, the Holy Spirit in them will bear witness to the truths that they are believing...

The next time you are hit by disturbing facts, let God's Word settle the truth about your situation. And as the Holy Spirit bears witness to the truths that you are believing, the facts will change and you will receive your miracle!" www.josephprince.org

Here is the miracle I pray for, that the people we ministered to just south of our border will be protected by the love of the Father. That those same people will come to understand the freedom offered through salvation in Christ. My prayer is the hundreds of young children will grow into strong Christian men and women and be in positions of power to influence their nation and stop the terrorizing of innocent people across their land. I pray also for the Christian men and women who are working the fields. They do not face the same circumstances our brothers and sisters are facing in Africa, India and China, but they are facing overwhelming "facts" about their country's stability and the pervasive violence that seems random. And I pray that I will know better how to serve my Mexican neighbors, in circumtances that seem futile for even an American "intervention" into the situation. I know these are all facts too big for me to understand or affect, but it is not too big for my God.

That is the TRUTH!

Vaya con Dios
Charlynn

"If anyone has material possessions and sees his brother in need but has no pity on him, how can the love of God be in him? Dear children let us not love with words or tongue but with actions and in TRUTH." 1 John 3:17-18

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Pahy-uh-neer

2011-01-24T22:57:00.000-06:00

That's "PIONEER" to all you folks that didn't learn phonetics through Sylvan Learning system.

noun
1. early arrival in new territory
2. the first one in any effort

It's safe to say I have qualified for both on many occasions. Here in Chiapas (just a hop skip and a jump from DFW) because of the large Hispanic population in Texas, I don't feel quite so foreign.

Vicki has accused me of holding out my language skills when I have filled out past East West application forms. You are supposed to divulge information and gifts that the team leader can find useful for advancing the Kingdom. Hard as I tried to convince her "I do not speak Spanish," she would just shake her head because when the locals speak to me after I have inquired, "donde esta el bano?" I keep looking at them like I know what they are saying.

My inability was confirmed and her theory banished the first day as I was showing the children my ever handy Coloring Book trick. I asked them to help me color and I started saying all the Spanish words for colors that popped into my head. "Rojo" (red), "Blanco" (white) and "Verde" (green). Then I said what I thought was the word for "orange." The interpreter turned around with a quizzical look and said, "You want them to color spiders?"

I don't speak Spanish!

But I am quite proficient when it comes to charades. Our hotel room doesn't have heat (it drops down to about 65•), but tonight we walked past the room next door and spied a space heater.

There we stood out in the cold night air feeling foolish for not asking the front desk sooner if space heaters were available. Vicki turned to me and said, "Well, why don't you go use those language skills and see if you can find out about that."

YOU CAN'T ALWAYS GET WHAT YOU WANT, BUT IF YOU TRY SOMETIMES...

You don't even get what you need but those around you are entertained!

1. Ask if the person speaks English - if the answer is "poco" you might have a shot

2. Use a common word to start the conversation - FRIO (say this while rubbing your arms and shaking)

3. Start by using small English words like "room" and "heater" while motioning with your hands

4. When they answer with more than one word stop them immediately

5. When they start their own game of charades, making motions like
"Put your coat on if you're cold" understand you have failed to communicate

6. Use props - I walked over to the ashtray of the lobby and motioned using an English word by adding an "a" to the end "Machina" as well as the word for hot "caliente". I then rubbed my hands over the top like it held a roaring campfire. I also used non-verbal moans to indicate I was getting warm

Success at last. She said, "Oh ---- (the word for heater that I already forgot) and then she shook her head, "No." Success and failure all in the span of an Alex Tribec Jeopardy round.

"Pioneer" indeed! I think it is safe to say I am the first one to make such an effort to try and communicate "I am cold do you have a space heater?"

Over the last 5 days we have communicated the love of Christ to over 500 children and adults. We have seen professions of faith by several adults who were listening on the sidelines and spoke to the Pastors while we were busy with their children. We have seen the motions of the "Chicken Dance" lighten the load of children carrying children by allowing them to have carefree fun. Yes, the Spirit of the Living God has touched hearts without uttering a word.

Shivering, smiling but serving still

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Paying Attention

2011-01-24T10:24:00.000-06:00

"Now get yourselves ready. I'm sending my Angel ahead of you to guard you in your travels, to lead you to the place that I've prepared. Pay close attention." Exodus 23:20 The Message

It wasn't the "crack of dawn" when we were ready to leave but very close to it. We had a long drive to the village of Aguacatenango and no idea what kind of drive it would be. It is safe to say I had a bit of anxiety working as we drove through the mountainous roads.

Yes, I pray, yes, I breathe deep, yes, I trust my times are in His hands and of course YES, I trust His Angel has gone before us. But somewhere between the prayer, breathing and trusting, and wishing I could hear those Angel's wings - sweat breaks out across my brow as I look down at the rocky precipice as our car hugs the unprotected shoulder to let others pass us by.

I confess, sometimes the places HE has prepared, don't look very prepared. Once we turned off the main road, the car had to creep down the craggy rutted and rocky path. We were definitely headed towards the "ends of the earth."

Due to our second day's experience of the hillside mob, we have since been prepared for any and all combinations of our program. We have games, music, crafts, stories, tricks and songs. Sometimes I feel like Bullwinkle saying, "Hey Rocky, watch me pull a rabbit out of my hat" and out pops the unexpected Rhino!

Somehow, it all works out. We connect with the children. They smile, laugh and eventually warm up to us. We share the love of Christ and we leave them with the love of Christ.

After our children's program, Sergio (our in-country leader) held a church service. They sang songs, stood and prayed and listened attentively while he shared the message. I had to confess to Vicki, the Angel may have prepared the place - but I wish he had used bug spray. My attention to the Spanish (I can pick up about every tenth word) was distracted by the swarms of unidentified creatures hovering around my wooden stool.

As much as I experience and "lean in" to here in the harvest fields, my senses still are jarred by the conditions. This small village has no running water, and electricity into the mud brick houses is achieved by running frayed wires from the interspersed poles. There are chickens with their chicks, dogs with mange, and children half naked with scabies and various other very noticeable skin afflictions.

But

The Angel of the Lord was here before and God prepared this place.
At the end of the service one of the older women approached Sergio and his wife Beth and said there was a man that was afraid to attend the service. He was in a house (in total darkness) towards the back of the village. He was inebriated and embarrassed. Sergio entered his house and sat and spoke with him of the Father's love, acceptance and forgiveness available to him. After some time - he did accept the free gift of salvation being offered. A light is now shining in the dark and reaching into a place in his heart where no "frayed wire" ever could.
Paying attention

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You Can Call Me Gershom

2011-01-22T22:00:00.000-06:00

No matter what country I find myself in, young and old have a hard time pronouncing my name. This includes the United States of America, and dates far back to childhood. It used to really disturb me. Now, at 51 I accept that it is what it is. But, it has served me well in ministry teaching the meaning and value in "names."

Just before I left for Mexico I began reading Exodus. Moses named his first born son Gershom. It means "I am a stranger and a sojourner in a strange land;" which is why I wish I knew the female version (should there be one) of the Hebrew name. (Perhaps Gershomee?)

I am frequently a "stranger (strange at the very least) and sojourner in some very strange (and unfamiliar) lands. And while there is much that we find familiar here (laughter, chicken dance shennaigans, and guacamole) there are many very different, unique and beautiful things about this culture.

In the three days we have been ministering in various neighborhoods of San Cristobal, we have seen over 400 children and adults. Tomorrow we set off to a village two hours away by car. We have no idea what to expect.

"Let us go somewhere else - to the nearby villages, so I can preach there also. That is why I have come." Mark 1:38

The words of Christ echo in our hearts. It is the same reason we came, to share the Good News in nearby (and some not so nearby)villages.

"After this, Jesus traveled about from one town and village to another, proclaiming the good news of the Kingdom of God. The Twelve were with Him." Luke 8:1

The Dallas News today carried an article on how many mission trips to Mexico have been cancelled due to the border and drug cartel violence.

"Do not be afraid; keep on speaking, do not be silent. For I am with you, and no one is going to attack or harm you, because I have many people in this city." Acts 18:9-10

We are looking forward to meeting many of "His people."

Strange, sojourner smiling,
Smiling strange, sojourning
Still

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Tangled

2011-01-21T23:28:00.000-06:00

Have you (women) ever opened a jewelry box only to discover the necklace you intended to wear had become tangled with other chains and items? There the treasured adornment was, knotted together and even perhaps beyond salvaging.
If I had to share a description of today it would probably be that. Among the crowd of over three hundred women and children there were beautiful faces, colorful skirts and woven shawls, all "tangled" together on a hillside in the city. And there in that crowd were significant numbers of hearts that felt they were beyond salvaging...

until they heard the message of the love of Christ.

I trust the promises of the Word. It does not return to the Father void, but accomplishes what He has purposed. I trust the promise if Christ be lifted up He will draw men (women and children) unto Himself. I trust that in the chaos of so many kids scrambling for beads, balloons and candy (of which we ran out of all) the Spirit was busy creating new life, new hope and precious redemption.

I have to trust it. There is no Plan B, just as there is only one Way, one Truth and one Life.

And there is another reason I have to trust His plan and process on days like today - I don't have much patience.

Whenever I found a tangled piece of jewelry, I generally just tossed it in the trash. Or if I really liked it or it was too valuable to toss, I would wait until one of my friends came over and I would sheepishly inquire if they would "do me a favor." I would hand the disaster over and they would patiently sit with a safety pin, or some other tool required for the task and untangle my mess.

I have been blessed with many friends who are detail oriented, have patience, and actually enjoying doing such things. They can actually even accomplish the unraveling process without using even one expletive! I suppose I used up the allotment when I opened the jewelry box.

I shared and thanked one of my friends recently for being "that kind" of friend. I know our God is the same way. Whatever treasure is before us, tangled mess or not, He is the kind of friend you can just hand the thing over to, and with great patience, mercy, grace and lovingkindness, He will sit right down with you and fix it.

He sat with us today.

He also did the Chicken Dance (again)!

Turning it over
Charlynn

"If we could see the floor of God's immediate presence, we would find it strewn with the "toys" of God's children who have said - this is broken, I can't play with it anymore, please give me another present, only one in a thousand sits down in the midst of it all and says - I will watch my Father mend this. God must not be treated as a hospital for our broken "toys," but as our Father." Oswald Chambers "Not Knowing Where"
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Battlefields

2011-01-20T11:35:00.000-06:00

"We are not sent to do battle for God, but to be used by God in His battles." Oswald Chambers

We arrived without incident and much faster than our typical 28 hours of travel. I can say, the flight barely seemed to be in the air before we were landing in Mexico City! We did have to negotiate a new airport, along with airline and terminal change - but all in all it was hassle free (and Starbucks as a bonus)!

This morning we enjoyed fresh mountain grown coffee, along with toast, scrambled eggs and a small side of frijoles. We are 4,000 ft above sea level and the cool morning breeze made the hot brew a welcome refreshment. Vicki remarked on the peaceful air that prevails within the contrast of violence.

Although the atmosphere and culture here is relaxed, we are conscious of the "battle" we have been sent to fight. It is the Eternal one for the hearts and souls of men, women and children. Without the foundational hope of Christ, the children we encounter can easily grow into the drug lords of the future. The farmers of maize can be converted or coerced to cultivating a more lucrative produce of marijuana or cocoa to turn into cocaine.

We discussed the issues and shook our heads overwhelmed to think what we would do faced with such a problem. Go along - or die. Can the American government solve such a problem? Will a fence stretching from Texas to California cease the flood of drug trafficking that funds and fuels the violence? Can the Mexican government curb the corruption or provide enough law enforcement and officials to break the cartels? What can be done?

The news reports appeared in our minds like the "giants" in the land of Canaan. I had to turn to Vicki and say, "I feel like Joshua and Caleb." She didn't understand my point of reference since my whole conversation has been between my Blackberry and me. "You know, sent down into the land to scout it out for those who will come later. We can take it! Our God is on our side!"

She chuckled, "Yes He is and yes we can."

His battle is being fought here. Our part begins this afternoon with our first program. Pray for connection with the children and the local lay workers. Pray for hearts to hear the hope of Christ, sealed by His blood -bought and paid for.

Our schedule for the week is below. Please continue to pray for our stamina in the high altitude and our health against the unseen.

THUR - San Cristobal
FRI - San Cristobal
  SAT - San Cristobal
SUN - Aguacatenango
MON - Comitan
TUE - Linda Vista

Via con Dios!
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An Other Land

2011-01-17T13:52:00.002-06:00

I am finalizing my packing today. I try and leave one day free for the unexpected before I take off into the wild blue yonder. But the winter skies over Texas have been a dull gray lately; nothing blue about them, and I have aged-out of "wild." The "yonder" I am always ready for.

This morning I felt as though I was having a bout of S.A.D. (Seasonal Affected Disorder) caused by lack of sunshine. "Oh me, oh my, why can't the sun just shine." As I was pondering this dilemma, I realized the absolute hopelessness of those without the Son. Their dismay doesn't stem from clouds, but the spiritual darkness that imprisons them.

As I have told friends I am going to Mexico, this look comes across their faces. "You're kidding right? Don't you know how dangerous it is there?" Then, they stifle a laugh realizing what they just said, all while quickly correcting themselves by acknowledging most places I go are considered "dangerous."

It is a new year, and Chiapas, Mexico is a new territory the Father has opened the door for me to step through. I will be traveling with the Director of Orphan Minstry at East West International to prepare for future teams to serve there.

"...show us courage instead of fear, and faith instead of fright. He's the One who "every year you grow, you will find bigger." Prince Caspian Book 2 Chronicles of Narnia - C. S. Lewis

Over Christmas, I took a suitcase full of books for the orphanage in Ghana. I included The Chronicles of Narnia series as well as a companion book to help parents explain the "hidden" allegories for their children. As I was packing up and thumbing through the explanation volume, I thought, "Wow, I wish I would have had this explained to me when I read it." Needless to say when I returned I ordered a copy for myself.

It was refreshing to read some of the passages (above and below) with a fresh perspective. Every year my prayer is to see God in a bigger way in the places and people I experience. I pray to show and to share His story in a fresh light. I pray to ignite passion for the lost. I pray to set captives of deception free by the truth of salvation. I pray to give the sight of God's overwhelming love to those blinded by poverty of spirit. I pray to take the hand of those made lame by crippling circumstance and help them rise to praise the God who heals. I pray to grow in grace.

I pray.

"This is the very reason why you were brought to Narnia," Aslan says to the children, "that by knowing me here for a little, you may know me better there." Voyage of the Dawn Treader Book 3 Chronicles of Narnia - C. S. Lewis

I pray to know the Lion of Judah better in the land of Mexico.

Listening for the roar!

To participate financially with our outreach in Mexico, please visit our website: www.sunshineafterrain.org

MEXICO - Calendar of Events

2011-01-17T12:56:00.000-06:00

JANUARY 19

Depart DFW for San Cristobal, Chiapas Mexico

JANUARY 20
Local Team Strategy Meeting

JANUARY 21-24
Children's Outreach - Rural Jungle areas

JANUARY 25
Team Training in child evangelism

JANUARY 26
Depart Mexico for DFW

Treasures in the Dark

2010-12-31T10:36:00.000-06:00

"I will give you the treasures of darkness, riches stored in secret places, so that you may know that I am the Lord, the God of Israel, who summons you by name." Isaiah 45:3 NIV

It's daylight in Dallas, Texas the last day of the Year of Our Lord 2010. The sun is shining as the decade comes to a close. Wherever you find yourself on this day, I am sure you would agree it has been a roller coaster ride the last ten years. We started the decade off fearfull of Y2K (remember all the food and flashlights). And perhaps we are closing the decade with a glimmer of hope that the economy is finally going to turn around. At least Americans spending during this season would indicate we think we will be able to make payments on that plasma screen (with no interest until 2012).

The second year of the decade changed the world "as we know it." The attack in New York showed us we're not invincible. It brought a "darkness" created by the falling ashes of an empire. God's promises are true. He does give us the treasures of darkness. The place where what matters MATTERS. Where the main thing (our relationship with Him) becomes the MAIN thing.

Our country went to war, and we are still fighting the battle today. Whatever side of the political fence you find yourself on, I know I'm thankful there are men and women willing to sacrifice their time in the familiar, time with their families, time with controlled temperature and good food, and even their lives so that WE can have (and choose) all of the above.

"God, make a fresh start in me, shape a Genesis week from the chaos of my life." Psalm 51:10 The Message

I pray the next 365 days will be like "in the beginning;" a Genesis week - creation from the chaos of the locations I find myself in. The creation of salvation stories from places of poverty and pain, illiteracy and illness.

"Then those whose lives honored God got together and talked it over. God saw what they were doing and listened in. A book was opened in God's presence and minutes were taken of the meeting, with the names of all the God-fearers written down, all the names of those who honored God's name. God-of-the-Angel-Armies said, "Their mine, all mine. They'll get special treatment when I go into action. I will treat them with the same consideration and kindness that parents give the child who honors them. Once more you'll see the difference it makes between being a person who does the right thing and the one who doesn't, between serving God and not serving Him." Malachi 3:16-19 The Message

Every time "we" meet together, whether in person or in emails our God is taking notes and names of the "God-fearers." He is listening in and preparing for His action in our lives to impact the days and weeks and years we have assigned to us.

The treasures we find during dark times, the secrets we discover in the hidden places does not make us modern-day "Pirates of the Caribbean," it assures us we are Ambassadors to the King.

"Our God makes His entrance, He's not shy in His coming. Starburts of fireworks precede Him." Psalm 50:3 The Message

Happy New Year!

Sunshine After Rain Ministries is a 501c3 organization. Contributions to the ministry are considered tax deductible by the IRS. Donations for the calendar year 2010 must be postmarked by midnight December 31 or made through Paypal via our website: www.sunshineafterrain.org

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Hunger

2010-12-27T16:13:00.000-06:00

"It is only the poor and hungry, those most aware they need someone to come on their behalf, who can celebrate Christmas. " Archbishop Oscar Romero - martyred

If I have said it once, I've said it one hundred times, "Africa is my favorite place on earth!" I can't remember any word past the first line of the Leon Russell's rock classic, "I've been a lot of places in my life and times..." Well, perhaps I do remember more, but past the first few words the message loses it appropriateness, so I generally stop there.

Africa is my favorite place on earth.
As I was discussing this with my friends (who have made Ghana their home for the past 16 years) I was trying to pinpoint just what it is about the place and the people that I love so much.

I recalled images vivid in my mind from my summer trip to Tanzania. Women who had walked for 4 hours to hear what "these guests" would have to share with them from the Lord. I thought of the moment when they jumped (literally) out of their seats and screamed and wept when we told them we were giving them a Bible. I shared with my friend my embarrassment that I had never felt that way about the Word of God.

I love Africa, because being here, among it's people, in a land where our Savior found refuge - I appreciate "the possessions in our hands have little to do with the peace in our hearts.*"

I have been blessed to celebrate Christmas here in a land that knows great pain and poverty. I came to share the miracle of His entrance into our humanity as an infant.

My greatest gift this Christmas, was finally learning why I love being here so much; what "they" know that I don't. The Africans know what it is like to be hungry. I am not even referring to lack of food. The women in Tanzania responded the way they did because they hunger "for every Word that proceeds out of the mouth of God." Why else would they walk so far and weep for a gift that gathers dust on most of our shelves?

Jesus knew hunger in the wilderness. He understood thirst. He came for us even though we didn't know we needed Him to.

"Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness sake, for theirs is the Kingdom of heaven."

It's hard be hungry when you live in the "Land of Plenty."

Waiting for the Lord's feast
Charlynn in flight

* "I need Africa more than Africa needs me." www.mochaclub.org

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LOST

2010-12-24T17:39:00.000-06:00

There is not much to watch on TV here in Ghana. Fortunately my friends have a collection of DVD's to select from to keep us entertained once the sun goes down.

A few days ago we were reading through the titles when they said, "We have the first season of the television series "Lost," have you seen that?" I replied, "Are you kidding me? I love that show! I haven't seen the beginning, well - since the beginning. That gets my vote."

And so we began the journey that is the 21st century version of Gilligan's Island.

I interjected from time to time what I had heard about the series. How the creators knew from the start of the show how many episodes it would have (a luxury from a writer's point of view) and other trivia. But as I watched the show from "the beginning," I saw traces of "the ending." There were subtle hints woven in even throughout the Pilot Episode!

I just kept thinking, "Wow, what great storytellers. They pulled that element in at the finale." I have been thoroughly entertained - again. It isn't even because I "know how it ends." I appreciate the story and the intricacies of the plot line. What looks like a "bad" part, really has resolution later on. I'm not stopped by the "trying to figure it out," phase as so many fans of the series were. I am marveling at the "story." The elements that seemed haphazard the first time around, now make more sense.

I don't feel so lost.

I've read through the Bible each year for the past 20 years. Each December I reach the Revelation of John. From time to time I also read Eugene Peterson's book* on Revelation as well.

Peterson's book is not the classic eschatological exposition on the Revelation. Instead it focuses on the fact this is God's last word in His word. Chapter's discuss the last word on the Church, the last word on prayer, the last word on worship etc..

When I reached Revelation Chapter 12, the commentary was fresh again. The Beginning of salvation is written at the End of the redemption narrative:

"The Woman gave birth to a Son Who will shepherd all nations with an iron rod." Revelation 12:5

I found myself feeling like I did while watching "Lost." I was marvelling at the intricacies of the author and perfecter of our faith. God let us in on the secret from the very start of His story.

"He was chosen before the creation of the world" 1 Peter 1:20

It is well know the holidays cause stress and tension. People get depressed and there are more incidents of suicide during this season than any other. I think it is because people feel a sense of hopelessness at a time of year when everyone is supposed to feel hopeful. They don't see the details; how God worked out from the start the end and how the end ties to the start of our salvation story.
They are lost.

Tonight's episode (Whatever the Case May Be) had a scene that had us all in unison say "Wow." One of the characters is almost catatonic at the loss of a girl he was trying to help. An older woman assures him it is not his fault. He looks up with despair. She says, "You have got to ask for help." Later on they are sitting in front of a fire, he turns to the woman sobbing and says, "Help me." She puts her arm around him and says, "I'm not the person you need to ask."

WHAT!? We waited with breathless expectancy to see who she would tell him he needed to talk with. Would it be the protagonist doctor? Or the antagonist with the gun?

Instead, she said (on prime time television) "Heavenly Father, we need your help. We're here lost and we don't know what to do."

One of the recurring scenes starting the show has been the close up of an eye opening. The next time I open my eyes, it will be Christmas morning here on the continent of Africa (I am 6 hours ahead of Central Standard Time). My prayer for my friends around the world, near and far, is to keep your hearts open to the wonderment of His story. Look around with fresh eyes at bright lights on the tree and imagine the bright light of His glory. While looking at your small nativities, use a large imagination for the smell, the sounds and enjoy the beauty of a King willing to reduce Himself to the vulnerable nakedness of an infant. I think I would try to have His little fingers grasp on to mine.

He promises to reveal all the plot lines, and sub-plot lines and intricacies of our story to us in the end. Remember The Revelation, in the End, we win!

"Our response to the Nativity cannot be reduced to shutting the door against a wintry world, drinking hot chocolate, and singing carols. Rather, we are ready to walk out the door with, as one psalmist put it, high praises of God in our throats and two-edged swords in our hands." (Psalm 149:6) *Reversed Thunder: the Revelation of John & the Praying Imagination; Eugene Peterson

Merry Christmas
Charlynn

Pray for those who are lost!

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Crappy Wrapper

2010-12-21T11:52:00.000-06:00

Attention shoppers, only 3 more shopping days left - and then the dreaded job of wrapping all those packages begins.

I admit without chagrin, I AM a crappy wrapper! I never have been good at, even when I used straight-edged rulers, a perfectly flat surface, good ribbon and bows (as opposed to reused or Dollar Store ones). My packages never look that pretty.

This year I didn't even make an attempt when I sent out presents to my friends and family before leaving for Africa. I just stuck them in a padded envelope and sent them into the ocean of millions of other packages crisscrossing the nation.

I am a crappy wrapper, but I am a good "giver."

"God loves it when the giver delights in the giving." 2 Corinthians 9:7

I just finished wrapping up the last of the packages to go underneath my friends' Christmas tree. I wrapped everything but the hot sauce. I thought it would be fun for them to actually unwrap the things I brought; some were requested, but there will surely be some surprises too.

As we walked past the 10' tall evergreen (ever ready artificial) my friend remarked, "I think this is the first time packages have ever been under the tree."

To hear that was a delight to this warped wrapper. My children encouraged me to quit wrapping long ago. "Mom, we just tear the paper up. Why do you want to spend the time?" I suppose I just wanted the meager (in expense) items I had for them to look like a lot. Except for the fact, I'm a crappy wrapper!

I brought my own supplies: tape, scissors and of course paper that I wound up fighting with, cutting crooked, creasing poorly, and tearing accidentally. It supports the U2 singer Bono's non-profit for Africa (RED). On it are words containing the word red in parenthesis. I think it has a message to remember even if I didn't do such a good job.

Admir(red): as we give to those we admire, may we remember the One who admires us

Ado(red): may we remember the gift of Christ we received because the Creator adores us

Treasu(red): may we remember the greatest treasure is the priceless blood shed for our redemption

Inspi(red): may we be inspired to "Go Tell it on the Mountains

Enamo(red): may we fall deeper in love in the coming year with the King we serve

Kind(red): may we understand the kindred Spirit of our brothers and sisters around the world, when they suffer - we suffer

Sha(red): may we mindful to share with others from our place of plenty. No matter how the economy has impacted your circumstances, many millions in our world go to bed hungry

Chee(red): may we be cheerleaders of the disenfranchised in the coming days. A victory was planned for us through Christ's birth - that is something to cheer about

Inc(red)ible: may we praise God for His indescribable gift to us

Who is, Who was and is to come, would have appeared to the world to be a crappy wrapper.

He wrapped His only begotten Son in swaddling clothes and laid Him in a manager.

Following His example!
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Fall on Grace

2010-12-20T18:15:00.000-06:00

"Hear the joyful sound of our offering, as your saints bow down."

The missionaries and the airline employee have fallen on the grace of the Father, and are relaxing in stretched out business class seats. Winging their way on what might be called a United Airline flight - but we know it was the effectual fervent prayers of the righteous that positioned them for His wings.

Our God saves!
Charlynn still in Ghana smiling
Thank you for your part!
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Standing By

2010-12-20T13:15:00.000-06:00

"We will rise with You, lifted on Your wings, and the world will see that our God saves!"

I walked out into the heat of the African night on Saturday looking for faces that are hard to miss amidst the crowd of dark Ghanaians. I didn't see my friends, but plenty of people saw me.

"Taxi, madame?" "I will carry your bags for you," as hands quickly invaded way more than personal space to grab my overloaded luggage cart. The people are not unkind, or ill-meaning, they are opportunist to be certain, and someone with light skin on a dark continent usually spells m-o-n-e-y.

Ask anyone who has ever traveled with me, I can hold my own in such situations and NOBODY is touching me or my bags that is not authorized to do so!

Where were my friends?

One persistent fellow kept following me and saw I was scanning the crowds. He also was assured by me many times, I was not budging on the offer of help. Finally, he said, "I have a cell phone, do you want to call your friends?" Now that was an offer I couldn't refuse. I dialed the number and connected with them. "Where are you?" "Where are you?" They replied.

"I'm out here in a sea of darkness." We had inadvertently passed each other. As it turned out, they were dropping off a missionary couple leaving for furlough at the departure area above me, and in their haste to get downstairs to the arrivals, didn't scan the crowd that had made it outside.

I was in that crowd.

Standing by.

Watching and waiting.

Shortly after our hugs and thanks to the persistent gent, their cell phone rang again. It turned out the airline had placed an "embargo" on passengers flying "non-rev." From December 15 until January 15, people using "buddy passes" leaving certain "listed" countries could not fly without the airline employee who provided the pass. The missionary couple were no longer "on stand-by," they were out and out STUCK!

There was nothing else to do but to load them back in the car and drive the 1 hour back to my friends to try and sort the mess out.

Welcome to Ghana.

Sunday was spent making phone calls to family members who were meeting them, numerous calls to the airlines, emails to the employee in Columbus, Ohio on what to do, and waiting. An airline official suggested they return to the airport, only to be informed that there was no chance they would be leaving Ghana until the 15th of January - unless the employee flew to Ghana and took the flight back with them personally.

Who would do that? It's Christmas! Flights out of the US were being cancelled right and left due to weather. The employee, even with senior status would have to fly standby. Fly for 20 hours and then turn around and fly 20 hours back!

The odds and the weather were definitely in no one's favor. But by this morning an email came through letting them know the employee (a close friend of my friends) made the flight out of Washington D.C. and was on the way to the rescue.
All this activity made me think more of what a treasure we have been given. We all had dismal thoughts. "Oh, we can't ask this lady to do THAT! Not for us, she doesn't even know us that well. She just let us use these passes as a favor (to my friends)." This morning, my friend was looking at Facebook only to be reminded it was their friend's (the airline employee) birthday today.

Grace, undeserved favor was at work. So was a good dose of Christmas spirit.

"While we were yet sinners Christ died for us." Romans 5:8

Happy Birthday!

We have 4 shopping days left to show our friends and loved ones what they mean to us by giving them a gift. A gift they probably won't remember receiving next year. We are meant to celebrate what was given to us that we did not deserve, we could not afford to buy, would not dare ask, and we could not even imagine we needed.

The employee is here to accompany the missionaries back home, but they are still on "stand by."

Thank the Father for His sacrifice of His Son. It was a priceless and precious present. How WE give and receive at Christmas should reflect and acknowledge what was given to us. "Freely we have received, freely give." Pray for favor and space to get this couple (and the most grace-exhibiting employee) home for the holiday!

"But those who wait upon the God get fresh strength, they spread their wings and soar like eagles." Isaiah 40:31 The Message

I'm smiling still, and watching always!
Charlynn
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GHANA - Calendar of Events

2010-12-16T16:40:00.003-06:00

DECEMBER 17
Depart DFW

DECEMBER 18
Arrive Accra, Ghana West Africa

DECEMBER 19
Church Worship

DECEMBER 20 - 24
International Disability Center
Orphanage /AIDS Outreach

DECEMBER 24
Christmas Eve Program

DECEMBER 25
Merry Christmas!

DECEMBER 26
Church Worship

DECEMBER 27
Depart Ghana

DECEMBER 28
Arrive DFW

Ready for all the Father has in store for the coming year.

Lights, Cameras, Action!

2010-12-16T16:20:00.006-06:00

LIGHTS!

Christmas lights are up all across the city of Dallas . We had a small “cold front,” but it left as quickly as it came. Today, it is almost 70 degrees and it does not feel like Christmas at all. It seems like a balmy day where anything could happen. What is happening in the weather of my apartment is quite usual. There are no “stockings hung by the chimney with care,” foremost because I don’t have a fireplace, but there is not one trace of a Christmas bobble because I won’t be home for Christmas. I can guarantee, I won’t be dreaming about being here either. I will find myself once again in the Harvest Fields of West Africa. The people are dark of skin, but the harvest is white! I suppose I can safely say, I will be having a “White Christmas” indeed. It will not be one that will change with the seasons or temperatures. It will be an eternal one based on the “real” reason for this season we have so commercialized.

CAMERAS!

In this fast-paced culture we live in, everything is being filmed and posted on-line. Celebrities who are caught having just a little too much cheer are uploaded and scandalized before the limo pulls into their driveway. I get the usual amount of forwarded emails meant to lift my spirits and supposedly, I will confirm my “Christian” status if I forward the information to at least 10 people. I just exhale and take a look at whatever inspiration was sent my way, and try not to be too cynical or Scrooge-like. I watched this “caught-on-film” moment and wept. Okay, so I always cry at Handel’s Hallelujah chorus, but this made me picture what could be a “Rapture” moment. Suddenly, in an uncommon place, the Name will be proclaimed, and then I suppose if it is anything like the Left Behind series, just our clothes will be left for others to wonder about. This incident took place in a shopping mall food court and… what can I say… but

Hallelujah! A King is Born. King of Kings, Lord of Lords, forever and ever, Hallelujah.

(view video at: http://www.youtube.com/user/AlphabetPhotography)

ACTION!

I’m taking action this Christmas. The One who broke into our history, asks that we tell His – Story. There is no better time of year than now to share the Good News. The One who created all things, and by whom all things are held together is asking us to come and see. Pick out your favorite Christmas Carol and sing like there is no tomorrow.

Because there just might not be.

But for today~

“The kingdom of this world is become the kingdom of our Lord. And of His Christ; And He shall reign for ever and ever! “

And although I am smiling in His service, it still makes me cry at times.

On Assignment

2010-11-26T12:33:00.000-06:00

"...an apostle on assignment by Jesus the Messiah, writing to exiles scattered to the four winds. Not one is missing, not one forgotten, God the Father has His eye on each of you..." 1 Peter 1:1-2 The Message

It's Black Friday for shoppers across this great land. And though "black" tends to be suggestive of some ominous forces at work, it actually references when merchants can go from "being in the red" from slow economic times, to finishing the year "in the black."

The day after Thanksgiving.

The day of Thanksgiving, has been hard for me to celebrate in the traditional sense for many years. For the past four years I am just returning from India. A land of great poverty and darkness. Before that I was returning from or going into some third world, and feasting just didn't feel appropriate.

Don't get out your pedestals, the first thing I do on my way home from the airport is stop at a Mexican restaurant and indulge in unlimited chips and hot sauce, a plate full of enchiladas, rice and beans. I miss Tex-Mex!

Today is the day when the stores break down and slash prices on certain items (while supplies last). This tactic is meant to lure you into their web of coveting all the things you don't really need, but it is such a great bargain, how can you pass it up?

If the church were as focused on the great commission as shoppers are to "the day after Thanksgiving Day" sales - the world would be a different place.

Each year the proverbial sales start earlier and earlier. Last night the news featured coverage of devotees camped out in front of department stores like Toys 'r Us, Macy's and Best Buy. Those stores opened at 4:00am. This morning at
7:30 reports weren't on traffic problems but on the fact that shopping mall parking lots were already 90% full. You've got to start early to get the deals.

Jesus told His disciples the Harvest was ripe, pray to the Lord of the Harvest for more workers. He was telling them, and us, of the sales! Snap up the bargains! Run to get involved. Rise early to secure yourself a parking space and get out there. People are just waiting to hear the Name proclaimed. The Good News that you got THE bargain of a lifetime. Someone has paid your debt! You are debt-free in the eyes of the Creator.

I am filled with Thanksgiving.

Our team returned from India four days before the feast with so much to be thankful for. All our luggage arrived. The programs were full of seekers in spite of horrible weather conditions. We had safe transportation even with the wind and rain of a tropical depression bearing down on us. We stayed free of sickness though flood waters brought every unsanitary situation in to surround us - even in my hotel room! We saw hearts turn toward the one true Living God. We touched and danced with lepers. We celebrated the value of the orphans. We walked in the filth of gypsy slum communities and saw the beauty of their soul as they proclaimed the name of Jesus. We witnessed captives to 330 million gods set free. We saw the blind given the sight of heaven through God's promise. We were the first Christians to present a program at the school for the blind and disabled in its 150 year history! We boarded the plane confident we had completed the task we had been sent forth to participate in. Close to 1500 people had been ministered to, and heard the Name of Jesus glorified above all names.

When the disciples returned to Jesus (after having been sent out into the Harvest Field) they reported such great things. I'm sure like some of the things I am reporting to you. But Jesus didn't seem too interested in what they had accomplished; the healings, the demons being cast out, or even the message of salvation being shared. He cared about them fully understanding what He meant to THEM personally. "All the same, the great triumph is not your authority over evil, but in God's authority over you and presence with you. Not what you do for God but what God does for you - that's the agenda for rejoicing." Luke 10:20 The Message

I want to care as much about seeing the lost of the world come into the Kingdom as I do about those perishable treasures with prices slashed for the day.

I don't want to sweat about things to list I am thankful for when it comes my turn at the holiday table. I want to keep the main thing the main thing.

I am thankful my name is written in the Lamb's Book of Life.

God has His eye on us. God has His eye on each of the thousands of people I meet and touch in His name. He has not forgotten one of them, though the smiles of the caramel skinned Indian children, will soon turn to the dark chocolate smiles of African children for me (December 17-28 Ghana, West Africa).

My hope on this "black" day - is that we would see the harvest "white" and realize what a bargain we received. My prayer is that we would see our assignment. We would store up the imperishable things, things that will last - give the knowledge of the gift of salvation. These are what the Master remembers.

So should we.

"...you trust Him with laughter and singing. Because you kept on believing, you'll get what you're looking forward to: total salvation." 1 Peter 1:8 The Message

Thankful of the bargain
Mindful of the price He paid

Remember your year end giving!

To participate financially in our upcoming Christmas disability and orphan ministry outreach in Ghana, please visit our website:
www.sunshineafterrain.org

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Gump

2010-11-19T12:25:00.000-06:00

It has just been one of those days.

Since arriving in Chennai (which seems like weeks ago) we have been faced with the threat of an approaching cyclone, stuck for hours in traffic jams, tried to ignore the noise, stomach the food and tonight attacked by a cricket while having dinner.

We also experienced the joy of over 500 laughing, smiling, chicken-dancing children and adults.

It is past 11 at night and the rooftop neighbors are still outside, shuffling and cooking and creating a cacophony accompanied by the incessant sound of blaring horns and screeching brakes of the cars on the street below.

This is our last night in India.

I confess I will not miss the noise.

At the end of a "harvest" day, when I am alone in my room with my two inch blank Blackberry screen, I can picture Forrest Gump sitting on the park bench casually speaking to waiting bus riders. What he is telling are key, often times iconic, events in history and pop culture. But even when describing meeting Presidents, he just says, "and I met the President, ahhh-geee-an."

I know the work going on in any given area is a battle being fought in the heavenlies. I know legions of angels are flying above fighting against any number of the enemies minions so the Gospel can be preached. I know, I know, I know.

While I am in the "zone" (of battle) telling a story, watching the children, dancing, and tying Gospel bracelets on hands that are seldom washed, I can tune out the surroundings. I don't "see" the rags that are serving as clothes, the hair never combed, the bare feet, the naked babies, the flies crawling in wounds or the scabies and scars.

I feel the full realization and satisfaction of doing what the Father sent me to do.

"For we are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do." Ephesians 2:10

One of my favorite bittersweet sayings of Forrest comes when he accompanies his friend Jenny to her childhood home. It is old and dilapidated, long since abandoned and now overgrown with weeds. She bends down and starts hurling stones at the house where she endured abuse and pain. Forrest tries hard to grasp what she is going through. In the voice over he says, "Sometimes there are just not enough rocks."

Sometimes there are just not enough words.

Speechless in a broken world.
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Buckets of Goodness

2010-11-17T11:05:00.000-06:00

One of the first things recommended to overseas travelers is to let go of their notion of time. Each day as we have been given a set time to be ready to leave, we instinctively ask, "Is that American time or Indian time?"

American time "is what it is." Indian (or pick a country of your choice) time is "add 15-30 minute increments as needed!" What we Americans would consider "late" is actually to be expected, anticipated and planned around.

A typical example: the hotel breakfast buffet is advertised and verbally confirmed to begin at 7:00. However, when we walked in at 7:15 the only item available was bread (self-toaster) and jam. This made for one hungry group of women when we checked out at 8:00! Indian clocks were running right on time.

The rain was falling as unpredictabley as the schedules. Sunshine would peek through the clouds bringing hope for our long drive, and just when the smile of relief would break across our faces, deluge!

"Open up, heavens, and rain, clouds pour out buckets of My goodness! Loosen up earth, and bloom salvation" Isaiah 45:8 The Message

But God IS merciful, and prayer does work. By the time we were ready to board, the drainage from the rooftops was all that dampened our clothes. Only once (during the 4 hour journey) did we have to pull off the road because it became impossible for the driver to see (cows don't really care where they are when it is raining so they are still on the roads).

God is pouring out His goodness here in India, salvation is ready to bloom! We will have 3 programs each day Thursday and Friday (and possibly 2 on the day we leave).

The farmers are ready.

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No News

2010-11-16T11:05:00.000-06:00

...is good news?

Our hotel rooms here in Nellore are equipped with brand new high definition flat screen TVs. But since we've arrived they have remained a silent furnishing at the end of the bureau. After all, there are no channels in English and by the end of our day, we collapse in exhaustion and try to sleep through the sounds of traffic and the confusion of time zones. We haven't heard much news.

Okay, I did see the Dallas Cowboys won, but not much else has concerned us - that is until we heard today's latest weather report. Another cyclone is forming off the coast and could be heading directly for us!

While packing for India I watched the movie "Forrest Gump" and I can't help but hear in my mind Forrest say, "Again," (he was referring to meeting yet another President of the United States). I have viewed the classic so often, many of the scripted lines (as well as the distinctive way in which they were uttered) have become part of my own off-handed response to certain situations.

It has been raining here in Nellore for two straight days. Forrest thoughts, "In Vee-et-naaam there are all kinds of rain. There is fat rain, and skinny rain and there is even sideways rain." We've had a bit of all of the above.

We were scheduled to finish our time here in Nellore with a morning program before heading back to Chennai tomorrow. Now, we will be leaving at 8:00am trying to beat the storm.

"But you will not leave in haste or go in flight, for the Lord will go before you; the God of Israel will be your rear guard." Isaiah 52:12

Our part of battle that has been fought over the past few days is coming to an end. But just as the verse in Isaiah reminds us, God is before us (our vanguard) as well as behind us (our rereward)!

My friend sent me the handy Wikipedia definition: "The term rearguard (also rereward) originates from the medieval custom of dividing an army into three battles or wards; Van, Main or Middle and Rear... Rear guard troops can also be troops that protect the withdrawal of an army, blocking the enemy advance."

We have taken back territory from the enemy. We have laid claim in the hearts of widows, orphans, lepers, illiterate villagers, the young and the aged. We have come to proclaim freedom to the captives of 330 million false gods and idols. We are more than conquerors.

"You're my servant, serving on My side. I've picked you. I haven't dropped you. Don't panic I'm with you. There's no need to fear for I'm your God. I'll give you strength. I'll help you. I'll hold you steady, keep a firm grip on you. Count on it." Isaiah 41:9-10

On the road again!

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Comfort

2010-11-15T20:24:00.000-06:00

The trip to the village school took over an hour Monday morning. We dodged cattle unfazed by the morning rush hour traffic, and braked for the occasional dog. We honked incessantly to alert motorcycles with carefully balanced families and swerved to avoid potholes the size of small craters created by the cyclone's flood waters.

We were excited by the large playground that would serve as a perfect dance floor for the chicken dance, not to mention the games! But just when we were ready to break out the speakers it started raining.

The children were quickly huddled inside. The benches and books were collected to keep them dry and we all watched as the storm clouds dumped but did not dampen our spirits. That is until I realized the sound of rushing water created a certain need for a certain type of facility!

What appeared as a nice fall shower, was actually a deluge. Our dreamed of dance floor was a lake with hidden traps of sucking mud and muck! Nothing like getting a good soaking on the way to relief.

We finished up the program inside the small sweltering school room. There were no desks, no tables and no electricity. When we arrived to see the children outside we assumed it was because of the program. It had nothing to do with us - it had everything to do with necessity.

The children were happy, we were happy and the King was surely watching.

We returned to the hotel for our lunch break, a dry change of clothes and supplies for our afternoon adventure. We traveled the same road, saw different cows, dogs, people, and even a gaggle (or herd) of monkeys. We went further into the unknown, down narrow roads that became pathways of rutted mud and rocks.

The van stopped in front of a concrete square that was the new village church. There was a roof that would keep us dry, and there were children and adults eager to hear. The Pastor's son, had been let out in the village square to gather more children for the program. They followed him down the lane like a Pied Piper and soon the 10 x 20 room was packed. The only thing that kept us from adding more to the audience was the angry ant hill that was competing for territory.

Our team leader grew enthusiastic seeing all our additions and hoped to have even longer program time. Time to share the Good News more clearly, time to engage the children while making the Gospel Bracelets, time to make sure they knew and understood how much God loves them. Like the earlier rain, time was not on our side. As the sun set, the "church under construction" grew dark and our program ended too soon. Rain or shine this day, the Gospel was proclaimed, the Name above all names was lifted up, the saving power of the blood of Christ was shared and the message of hope in what looks like a hopeless land was given.

"Comfort, oh comfort my people," says your God." Isaiah 40:1

"7 Days to a Happier You," read the headline of an email sent courtesy of Ladies Home Journal. Since I will be back in the "good old U S of A" by then, I wondered what would make the rest of the cyber audience "happier."

The list of articles included ways on how to "take time for YOU," enjoy a "stress free holiday," and "5 keys to a better marriage." The recommendations covered eating well, getting proper amounts of sleep and don't forget exercise. Leaving India did not make the list of suggestions.

There was little comfortable about our day. When the rain came down at the school yard, again my mind went to the leper-beggar community with little to protect them and their children against the onslaught of the elements. They don't have seven days to "be happier." There is no need to establish an exercise regimen because they walk everywhere they go. And while there are lots of holidays in the Hindu faith, celebrations for those we see don't include feasts to forestall famine.

The happiness "how to's" made me realize how American's have become a culture of comfort. We like to feel good and comfortable. Comfort covers every aspect of our lifestyle. We want comfortable housing, clothes, shoes, cars and weather. But our comfort is not God's comfort. The comfort the Bible refers to is knowledge of His character and goodness, His provision and protection. His mercy and His salvation. It is not about feeling good - it is a knowledge and understanding of love.

We came to India to share that comfort. We are experiencing His kind of happiness each day.

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Flood

2010-11-14T22:01:00.000-06:00

A few days before we were scheduled to leave for India an urgent prayer request came from the Pastor in the area.

"There is a Cyclone (hurricane) headed for our coastline. Already many thousands of village people have been affected. There are deaths, the fishing towns have been devastated. Please pray for us."

I taped the BBC International News the following day because they generally carry far more reports on India and Africa than any American news agency. There was a lot of news concerning India alright, but it had nothing to do with the approaching storm. It had to do with the arrival of the American President. There was no mention of disaster, only "Peace, peace," when there is no peace.

We watched the internet, waited to hear from the Pastors, and we prayed. I thought of the times past we had traveled during the rainy season and the devastation caused by the rain on the makeshift housing of the villages we visit. I thought about the leper/beggar community who live in shelters constructed of sticks and thatching.

I copied down the verse in Isaiah regarding passing through the flood waters feeling it would be an appropriate strengthening Word.

"Don't be afraid, I've redeemed you. I've called your name. You're Mine... When you're in over your head, I'll be there with you. When you're in rough waters, you will not go down...I paid a huge price for you... That's how much you mean to Me! That's how much I love you!... So don't be afraid, I'm with you." Isaiah 43:2-5 The Message

The road from Chennai to Nellore was in good condition. It was dark (1:30am) when we arrived at the airport and it took 4 hours (instead of three) to make it to our destination. It was still dark. We couldn't tell what the conditions were. All we could see was the flood waters had receded. We were hopeful.

Yesterday, we headed out for our first programs at the orphanage and then the leper community. The roads were passable. There was activity on the streets and things back to their normal. It is far from "our" normal. There are still cows and dogs and wild boars, sorting through the debris in search of food. There are still motorcycles transporting a father a wife, a small child and perhaps a baby on the handle bars.

We even saw a monkey on the road much to one of my team members delight. We are not anywhere near normal to us or even Kansas, Toto.

But the things that are familiar and similar is the laughter. The smiles, the joy, and the Chicken Dance. I think each time I see it performed across the globe I hear the wings of angels fluttering beside me.

The orphans had a great time making new crafts, but the real delight of the day was the Polaroid photos taken at the leper colony. I could probably say with all certainty - they now have the first and most likely only picture they will ever own of themselves. They were delighted to see it develop right before their eyes. They were laughing.

They smile, just like normal people who are happy.

We walked through the village, past the debris brought in by the flood waters. We walked past scavaging dogs and pigs; past the huts held together with whatever twine they can gather. We walked past roofs of thatch and plastic bags. We drove back to our hotel...

where my room had flooded!

Water poured up from the bathroom floor drain, and the visiting plumbers only made the problem worse. The water was soon covering the floor in my room, where I was frantically trying to retrieve my shoes and luggage to higher ground.

The team leader came in and told us we were "evacuating" to rooms on a higher floor. It was a mess. It was a flurry of activity to cram our bags as fast as possible to get out.

I was frustrated, until I thought of the people I had just left. What did they do when the HURRICANE passed through their place? What did they do as the flood waters were rising? They didn't have any bags to pack. They didn't have any place to go. There was no higher ground for them.

There was only God.

"So don't be afraid, I am with you."

He is and was enough for them
And for me
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Go Therefore

2010-11-12T15:20:00.000-06:00

The miracles of technology! I can picture Paul somewhere in the heavenlies a bit envious of my little Blackberry contraption. This surely is exceedingly more than he could have imagined from his prison

And while he had one of the great wonders of the ancient world in his backyard (the Coliseum in Rome), the silver shaped bullet with wings that just carried me halfway around the world would have been unfathomable.

Here it is a bit after 2:00am on a dark road in India and we are making our way from Chennai to Nellore. It's hard typing through the bumps, swerves, and general nauseas producing diesel fumes but... I am a communicator at heart with 3 hours to kill.

Some of you probably think I'm crazy, but I would pass my lesson on to you from my pal Oswald
and call myself abandoned!

"...I have abandoned to the great supernatural position of limitless confidence in Christ Jesus, which is really God's only call for a missionary." Oswald Chambers Oct 27

The trip was uneventful and long. Did I say long? I meant to say what I will repeat each day for the villagers and children gathered to see the strange colored visitors. "We live a long long long long long long long way from here! They laugh and by that time, I will have enough rest in my bones and food in my belly to laugh with them.

At approximately 4:00am we will reach our destination, check in, collapse, shower, eat, and be off for the Leper Beggar village in the afternoon.

We are 11 and a half (not sure why they have that 30 minute thing) hours ahead of Central Time Zone so try just subtracting 30 minutes from your watch and change day to night or night to day and you will be as confused time wise as my body is! But whatever the time - it is always a time to pray.

I am not just asking for prayers for our work here in India, there are thousands upon thousands of missionaries around the globe, taking back territory for the King. His Kingdom IS coming, His will IS being done.

"All authority has been given to Me... Go therefore..." Matthew 28:18-19

We are going -
Thanks for sending!

On the road for a long long long time!

He is coming like the glory of the morning on the wave,
He is wisdom to the mighty,
He is honor to the brave;
So the world shall be His footstool, and the soul of wrong His slave,

Our God is marching on going! Glory! Hallelujah! Glory! Glory!
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Learning to Fly

2010-11-11T09:37:00.000-06:00

"The Lord will fulfill His purpose for me; Your love o Lord, endures forever - do not abandon the works of Your hands." Psalm 138:8

I'm sad.

It is officially the final season of one of my all-time favorite shows. Clark Kent and Lois Lane will be leaving "Smallville" for good. Of course I went through this same emotional roller coaster last year when "24" ended and its protagonist Jack Bauer saved the world for the last time. I thought, "What will we do now?" But I was comforted by the notion that somewhere in the celluloid digital realms Superman was still on the scene.

Until I heard the news, after ten successful years - the show was OVER.

Next year will be a world without "heroes." It seems vampires and werewolves have taken their place.

On this, the final season of my super hero, he may actually come to be known as Superman (currently the Daily Globe in Metropolis refers to him by the moniker "The Blur"). And he might even learn to fly!

"For I know the plans I have for you, plans to prosper you and not to harm you. Plans to give you a future and a hope." Jeremiah 29:11

Today I fly.

Not on my own - mind you, but under the wings of yet another Lufthansa aircraft. And the verse in Jeremiah, I carry it with me. God not only knows the plans He has for me in India, He knows the plans He has for all the people I will meet: the widows, the orphans, the lepers, the untouchables, the "no-caste" beggars. We are the small part of His plan to give them the hope of the Living God, the Truth, the Light, and THE Way.

"I'm ready to fulfill my destiny."

Clark Kent, looks off into a distant horizon as he shares thoughts on a future bigger than he can imagine; a DESTINY! On last week's episode, a man from the future is trying to teach him to let go of his past mistakes (sounds a bit like biblical Paul), and to see what is right in front of him. Only then will he discover his ability to fly. In one of the closing scenes he is reminded of this when he embraces Lois Lane, who he loves - low and behold he lifts off the ground!

Forgive me if you think my penchant for heroes is childish, but remember I live in a world, where by the worlds standards, heroes are not only absent, so is God.

"Faith is the belief in things hoped for, as yet unseen. And without faith it is impossible to please God."

I am ready to fulfill MY destiny!

I am following the advice of Paul by "forgetting things past, I press on to the upward high calling of God in Christ Jesus." God is not absent from the places I go. He is present and waiting to reveal Himself to those who are listening. I have never seen more beauty, than while holding the disfigured hand of a man with leprosy and tying on a Gospel bracelet while telling him how valuable he was to the Creator.

I have never received so great a gift as when an orphan girl (who was having a birthday) ran back inside to share a piece of candy with me. This precious child (at 6)had seen her mother murder her baby brother and realizing she was next ran to the train station to find safety.

Jesus found her a loving home at Jane's House orphanage. Her smile that day was evidence He is faithful to help us to press on for the upward high calling.

The people of India we will be working with next week all need to hear and know and believe, there is a plan for them; a future and a hope for them. Their caste cannot stop it, their lack cannot, their poverty and disease cannot, the 330 MILLION opposing gods cannot.

God's promise!

"Look, up in the sky, it's a bird, it's a plane, no it's....."

Lufthansa flight 439.
But I hear there is a clown on board!

Flying high with a smile

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"Your Pain...

2010-11-06T12:42:00.000-05:00

...has changed me.*"

Not too long ago I heard a song by the Contemporary Christian artist Sarah Groves. She wrote it after a mission trip to Rwanda. The powerful video that accompanies the song can be found on YouTube (I Saw What I Saw).

I adopted the lyrics as a theme song and mantra for my life in the harvest fields. The pain of the people I encounter HAS changed me. I return to my home a different person than the one that left. This emotional growth is never more true than when I return from serving at the Wounded Warrior retreats.

I often share this particular area of service is the hardest thing I do in the course of the year. While the conditions are luxurious (held at a golf resort) compared to the other places I go (many times lacking hot water) the emotional toil is far greater.

I'm not sure if it is the age of the soldiers (many younger than my own children), the severity of their physical wounds (amputees, burn victims, and traumatic brain injuries), or the "collateral damage" I see on the faces of the spouses and children that makes it so very hard.

"I saw what I saw and I can't forget it; I heard what I heard and I can't go back...*"

I come back home each time (I have participated in eight such events) profoundly impacted truly knowing how great is the cost of our freedom. I voted in this election because I know men and women that paid a very huge price to give me the opportunity to do so. I read my Bible every day, because religious freedom is one of the cornerstones of our country. Many people I minister to will never have that luxury, out of poverty or threat of persecution.

"I know what I know and I can't deny it. Something on the road, cut me to the soul...*"

I am off again, to share the Gospel of freedom in India. Though you may shake your head at my travel schedule, or wonder about rest, and all the other things that take time in preparing for a trip overseas - don't. That "something on the road" is the burning passion to see nations turn to the Living God for their salvation and security. I do not take my freedom to do so lightly.

"Your courage asks me, what I'm afraid of, and what I know of love, and what I know of God.*"

This is what I know of God. He is the provision. He is the Father that runs down the road to meet the son returning home broken and filled with shame. He is the Father, that clothes the humiliated with a garment of righteousness. He is the Father, who leaves...

again and again,

to find the one sheep that is lost. I live to be more like Him.

"In this all-out match against sin, others have suffered far worse than you, to say nothing of what Jesus went through - all that bloodshed!" Hebrews 12:4-5 The Message

Changed by His pain
Always in His service,

*Sarah Groves - I Saw What I Saw

To participate financially with the ministry and donate online, please visit our website:

www.sunshineafterrain.org

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Blast

2010-10-29T13:22:00.000-05:00

"...A time to cry and a time to laugh." Ecclesiastes 3:4

I know many tears have been shed by the spouses, children and even the warriors. I have shed thousands of tears at hundreds of goodbyes. Some of the experiences come with the knowledge I will not see the person again this side of glory - I know that. Yet, even in those painful partings it is not the same as sending a loved one off to war.

I can't imagine the tears shed when the phone call, or notification comes that a loved one has been injured.

I surely could never record the number of tears falling during multiple surgeries, painful rehabilitation as well as the days when they are just worn down - and out.

Before the soldiers and their families arrive the volunteer staff goes through a time of training to better prepare us. There are a few medical specialists here that provided us new (new to me) clinical information on what occurs in the brain during injury as well as healing.

Norepenephrine!

Since my first Warrior Getaway, I haven't really understood "why" the Imagination Station worked; I just knew it worked. It's hard to explain the sight of grown men and women wounded in battle, putting on prom dresses, way too small clown costumes and parading around grinning like they won the lottery.

Now I know. My array of crazy clothes, boas, wigs and wild wearables gives their brain a spurt of norepenephrine. I am not just a purveyor of fun - I'm a pharmacist!

As the warriors arrived they were quickly corralled by Care EE into the "dope zone." There aren't enough superlatives to describe a 6'4" soldier with a long brunette wig on, holding an inflatable guitar making like Jon Bon Jovi.

After dinner the children went off for their own age appropriate fun, while the adults were entertained by "Tina Turntable" and her sidekick (Dana Crews the Program Director). We enlisted a few soldiers and started the evening event with our own rendition of the famous tune by the Black-eyed Peas, "I've got a Feeling."

"Tonight's gonna be a good, good night."

A good night indeed!

We played various versions of games popularized by the TV Show "Minute to Win It." They included tying a pair of pantyhose (filled with tennis balls) to your head and knocking over water bottles; applying vaseline to your nose and putting your face in a bowl of cotton balls and filling a basket up with the fluffy captures.

One soldier was laughing so hard he was literally laying on the ground laughing until he was crying.

Now that's the kind of tears worth crying and counting. When it was all said and done I walked past one of the newcomers and asked "Did you have a good time?"

"I had a blast!" he replied. Then he broke out laughing. He said, "I haven't had a blast since...

Chuckle, chuckle

Iraq! He turned to his friend and repeated his "play on words." "Hey, I just said I haven't had a blast since Iraq." Laughter was heard far beyond the moonlit night at Tapatio Springs. It was heard in the heavenlies.

"A merry heart doeth good like a medicine." Proverbs 17:22

Dolling it out like a doctor!
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Vonnegut

2010-10-25T11:14:00.001-05:00

I loved Kurt Vonnegut.

I haven't read anything he wrote later than 1985 but everything before, I devoured. From "Slaughterhouse Five" to "Breakfast of Champions" and all the novels and short stories in between, fascinated me. There was something about "the voice" he wrote in, or perhaps it was merely the odd quirkiness of his characters (misunderstood weirdos) that resonated with me at the time. But now, I am often reminded of one of his short stories. PBS produced it as a drama starring Christopher Walken and Susan Sarandon entitled "Who am I This Time?"

In the story, two small town extremely shy and unnoticed residents reluctantly audition for the local theatre production. Strangely, (perhaps due to their lack of personality) they are able to embody the characters of whatever particular drama they portray. The towns folk are so captured by their acting they begin to stage productions simply to see the performance. When the show closes they return to their unassuming lives, void of any sign of the outgoing thespians. The story ends with the characters being approached to star in yet another local rendition of a theatre classic. They turn to one another and say, "Who am I this time?"

"I entered their world and tried to experience things from their point of view. I've become just about every sort of servant there is in my attempts to lead those I meet into a God-saved life." 1 Corinthians 9:22 The Message

I find myself in various cultures all around the world. I wake up in countries as diverse in climate as they are in conditions. One month I am in Africa, the next month Russia or China, and in the course of a year often twice in India. The food whether too spicy or too strange is at least sustaining. The people I mingle with generally don't look at all like the light-skinned fair-haired girl that I am. And the weather, well, I never can be sure of. Of all the climates, conditions and cultures I encounter perhaps the one I connect deepest with, as well as find the most difficult - are the soldiers.

Every homecoming I enjoy and look forward to is a return from the spiritual battlefield. One where souls are fought for and victory claimed. It is also where I see how the sin of humanity wounds and kills the spirit of the lost.

I still don't understand the great mysteries of God; how He uses costumes, silly hats, feather boas, and a Tina Turner wig to bring joy to the hearts of broken men and women. I don't understand the foolishness and I get anxious about "what if I'm not that funny this time."

Wednesday, I leave for the sixth Warrior Getaway in San Antonio. It is a "full-house," ministering to the more families than ever before! I returned late Saturday night from China, and unpacked one bag while packing another. I will take several of my "personas" to provide "the best medicine" for the weary and wounded.

I eat more than the "Breakfast of Champions." I feed on the Word of the Living God that nourishes and strengthens me for yet another battle. "I am all things..." All characters, the fool of all fools, so that some perhaps might be saved.

"I don't know about you, but I'm running hard to the finish line. I'm giving it everything I've got." 1 Corinthians 9:26 The Message

"Who am I this time?"

I'll be the one smiling, still serving, and still looking toward the goal of the upward high calling!

TEXAS - Calendar of Events

2010-10-25T11:10:00.002-05:00

Oct 27

WEDNESDAY

Leave for San Antonio

Oct 28

THURSDAY

Training and Orientation

Warrior Families arrive in the afternoon

Evening Program of FUN!

Oct 29

FRIDAY

Full Day Children's Program

Evening Program of DANCE

Oct 30

SATURDAY

Full Day Children's Program

Evening FALL FESTIVAL

Oct 31

SUNDAY

Worship

Return to DFW

Global Debt Crisis

2010-10-20T22:01:00.000-05:00

"This is a terrific responsibility. Is anyone competent to take it on?..." 2 Corinthians 2:16

My time here in China is coming to a close. Today (it is already Thursday morning) I will be packing up and preparing to "move on." Tonight will be my last encounter with students. A select few will gather at my friends apartment for "English Corner." It will give them an opportunity to have conversational English. These evening meetings are small intimate gatherings designed to give students an environment where questions with depth can be asked and deeper answers can be given.

"...We stand in Christ's presence when we speak; God looks us in the face. We get what we say straight from God and say it as honestly as we can." 2 Corinthians 2:17 The Message

For the past week I have been watching the international news in the evening. There is also a program called "Dialogue" with an anchor woman who interviews leaders on current hot topics in the headlines. The "Global Debt Crisis" has been in the news every day as well as American pressure for the Chinese to do something about their currency. As I listen, my head just starts spinning. "What? What are they talking about? How can anyone fix this?"

In my confusion about global issues, lack of knowledge about monetary valuing and de-valuing, I realized it is the reason I came to China in the first place. I have THE answer!

I share during the question and answer time with these bright and eager university students the TRUTH. It is not about money, information, medicine or even people. The only thing that has the power solve the problems is knowledge of the Living God and what His love compelled Him to do. He sent His Son to pay the Global Debt! "For God so loved the world..."

Just in case you are wondering if I really had a chance to say such things in a "closed" country, the answer is, yes, many times over. The Truth was proclaimed in different and unconventional ways, but remember Jesus thanked the Father, for revealing wisdom to the simple and not the wise. (see Matthew 11:26)

You have supplied a "farmer" to plant seeds in the hearts of over 500 university students. You have practiced pure religion undefiled by reaching orphans at the Tai'an children's home. You have been faithful to ask the Lord of the Harvest! He has answered your prayers.

We shall come rejoicing, bringing in the sheaves!

The Harvest is bought and paid for - debt free indeed.
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99

2010-10-19T10:08:00.001-05:00

"I love to tell the story
Of unseen things above,
Of Jesus and His glory,
Of Jesus and His love.
I love to tell the story,
Because I know 'tis true;
It satisfies my longings
As nothing else can do..."

It was a storytelling day. In fact it has been a storytelling week. I have to hand it to my friends working here in China. For the past ten years, they have seen the same tricks, and heard the same stories told over and over again. They still laugh, and they still take great delight in seeing the enthusiasm on the new "crop" of students' faces.

Each year they have remarked how the individuals I choose to "help" with the story are the perfect match. They are either the really shy ones that need a little encouragement to be engaged, or they are the class clowns that can really add to the delight of their classmates by their energy and participation.

"I love to tell the story,
'Twill be my theme in glory,
To tell the old, old story
Of Jesus and His love."

As I was reading His story, I noticed how the parables always created questions. This same scenario has played out year after year in China. The performance is the hook for putting the students at ease. We have always provided an opportunity for questions afterward. Generally they begin asking the secret of the "tricks" I have shown. Then they move on to more serious matters.

"I love to tell the story;
More wonderful it seems
Than all the golden fancies
Of all our golden dreams.
I love to tell the story,
It did so much for me;
And that is just the reason
I tell it now to thee."

The theme of many questions regards how I made a choice for "this type of work." After the lead in (I am a Christian) I always answer with the James 1:27 on caring for orphans. It gives ample room for, "As a Christian, the Bible is the foundation for my life choices... My love for God and His love for me compels me..." They listen, they take notes, they nod in agreement. My friend will always affirm, "The Bible, you understand, the book The Bible?" "Yes, yes, we know the Bible."

We work in tandem. Whether in the classroom or weeks after I am gone. They will use the questions (and answers) to create more opportunities and more seeds to be sown. "Remember when you asked the clown about why she went to other countries? Remember...?" In ten years we have heard thousands of students ask the questions (Why? How?) in one form or another, and we are prepared with the same old answer.

"I love to tell the story;
'Tis pleasant to repeat
What seems, each time I tell it,
More wonderfully sweet.
I love to tell the story,
For some have never heard
The message of salvation
From God's own holy Word."

Today, one of the students asked me to tell them a story about my children. I shared a time when they were very young and I was busy downstairs cooking dinner, they were busy playing school in the attic. I heard some strange banging noises and went to check on them. I opened my closet door that led into the attic storage area where the "schoolhouse" was located. As the door opened they all came piling out on top of one another, crying with despair. "What is the matter?", I asked. "We were locked in! We would have died in there! We would have starved to death!" I just laughed and said, "Didn't you think I would come looking for you? Did you think I would just sit down to dinner without my children? Don't you know I would miss you?" Of course they looked at each other and knew of course I would.

The students thought this was funny. But then, I was able to share His story about the "ninety and nine" sheep and the one that was lost. "I told you I am a Christian. Did you know Jesus taught those who followed Him by using stories. When this happened with my children, I immediately thought about Jesus' story of the one sheep that was lost. The Shepherd left the 99 that were safe and went to look for His sheep that had wandered off. That is how much God loves His children! His children that are lost in America, in China, in Africa, in India, He comes to look for them." They smiled. Perhaps some of them were hearing the Voice.

"I love to tell the story,
For those who know it best
Seem hungering and thirsting
To hear it like the rest.
And when, in scenes of glory,
I sing the new, new song,
'Twill be the old, old story
That I have loved so long."

Smiling, telling, and singing the same old song!

Oh O

2010-10-17T09:01:00.000-05:00

If you have ever asked yourself, "How does she do it?" Other than the obvious first answer (the Lord) the second and sometimes obvious is Oswald Chambers.

At 5:30 this morning I awoke to blood-curdling screams. The sound was so strange at first I didn't realize what it was exactly. The fact that I also sleep with a pillow covering my head to muffle night time sounds in various parts of the world, added to my confusion. "Surely, that is not what I think it is." Then another scream; followed by weeping. I got up and went to the window to try and determine where this was coming from. The hotel where I am staying? The apartments behind, the street, a movie? Just as I would think it was coming to an end, it would start up again, louder, longer and more terrified.

I fumbled for the cell phone I had been given to try and contact my friends. There is no 911 here in China - or if it does exist, English would not be the language of the operator. Now, I could hear a child's screams and pleading as well. When I finally got through to my friends, even through the phone, they could hear what was happening.

They contacted the hotel (I was sure they must be able to hear) and the young desk clerk acknowledged the commotion and said the woman had mental problems. My friend said in no uncertain terms and in enough Chinese they understood, "If you don't call the police we will."

The noise stopped, I returned to bed and just prayed.

Other than the morning's events today was a Sabbath rest, and I joined the fellowship of foreign teachers this afternoon for Bible study. The meetings traditionally begin with prayer requests and praises.

One of mine was for the woman and child.

Tonight, my friends were walking me back to the hotel to speak (in person) to the night staff about what happened. As we looked to see what apartments were around it occurred to me, today just might have been the first time this woman (and whatever the horrific circumstance she is in) has ever been prayed for. I turned to my friend, "Think about it, who around here is a believer?" In this godless society, who turns to God for help?
Although my friends had warned me about the cultural norm of "not my problem" as well as the police corruption, it became even clearer in talking with the staff, they don't turn to their neighbors for help either.

I pondered what to share of the day. I opened up Oswald:

October 17
"Prayer does not fit us for the greater works; prayer is the greater work."

I am going to bed now, it's night here in a land of a billion lost souls with no one to cry out to when they cry. The neighbors may not respond to this one woman's cries but we know the One who does - and will.

Let's join together and do the greater work
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Bow Down

2010-10-16T11:06:00.000-05:00

I couldn't tell if the tiny hand gripping my finger tightly was that of a little boy or a girl. The hair on all of the children confined to the stainless steel beds is kept at a quarter of an inch.

The size of the child lying in the crib didn't really offer an indication of age either. There were children no more than 30 inches but already several years old. One way we were able to estimate was by the number and condition of their teeth.

*"Lesson One in the school of faith. That is, ...having to bow down before that which I could not possibly explain...."

Today was my first visit to the new multi-million dollar orphanage in Tai'an. The children moved in 18 months ago.

The new facility is phenomenal. Probably six stories tall with a center courtyard with a badminton net and ping pong tables. There are brightly painted murals on all the walls, and an array of umbrellas and silk flags hanging from the glass ceiling far above.

We called in advance to ask what was needed most that we could bring as a gift. Their answer - diapers. How can that be explained?

*...Usually, we need not bow. We can simply ignore the unexplainable because we have other things to occupy our minds...."

We arrived a few minutes late and were quickly escorted up the stairs where the older (and mostly able-bodied) children were waiting for their special guests. Our minds and theirs were occupied for over an hour with tricks, stories, games and of course the Chicken Dance!

We finished the program and took Polaroid photos with each of the kids. Then the assistant director took us to the "baby" rooms.

The older children share rooms and have joint bathrooms with the room next door. There is no comparing it to the old building. There is much more room, but there are many more

orphans.

The rooms are nicer, cleaner, bigger, more spacious and lovely. They house too many more broken, disfigured, and abandoned.

*"...We evade the questions...."
Tonight, after the performance for close to 150 medical students, I tried not to evade the questions. I answered honestly.

*"...Faith's most severe tests come not when we see nothing..."
I saw children crumpled in the corner of the crib come to life when I approached. I heard them laugh and giggle when I merely reached in between the bars and touched them through the layers of clothing they were swaddled in.

*...but when we see a stunning array of evidence that seems to prove our faith vain...."
There were at least four babies with cleft palates. Disfigurements easily corrected. Older children with cerebral palsy that could have greater mobility if there were more accessible physical therapy.

*"...If God were God,..."
Did He really knit together a child without a nose, whose family would abandon her?

*"...if He were omnipotent, if He cared, would this have happened? "
I knelt beside more than eighty cribs today, stroking the face of each precious and treasured child. I understood "whatever you do for the least of these" in a deeper and more profound way. Our Savior, became by choice - an infant! How much more disabled could the Creator be?

Here I am in China to worship, here at an orphanage filled with too many broken and abandoned children I am to bow down, here I am saying that You're my God.

And sometimes at the end of the day the smiles left behind turn to tears,
Charlynn

*Quoted from "These Strange Ashes" by Elisabeth Elliott
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Darkness Passing

2010-10-15T10:07:00.000-05:00

"Its truth is seen. In Him and you, because the darkness is passing and the true light is already shining." 1 John 2:8

The sun has set here in Red China, but today has been a day of "darkness passing." Since my arrival Wednesday I have seen over
350 University students. Hitting the ground running is an understatement! In a country with over a billion people - most lost to an ideology that denies the existence of God, "running with the horses" is what it takes.

The three classes have been lively. It is interesting to see what kind of questions are generated by the Spirit of God calling out to those who know His voice. My friend has marveled at what comes from these reserved and shy students. She prepared them in advance with certain vocabulary (non-profits, orphanage, orphans, humanitarian, disabled) that isn't typically found in conversations and curriculum. I still use words they don't understand and I have to make adjustments, but there is obviously an internal/eternal interpreter at work in their hearts.

As I prepared for the day, I was thankful to read the subject of Oswald Chamber's devotion:

The Key to the Missionary Message

"Paul did not say, "Woe unto me if I do not preach what Christ has done for me," but - "Woe is unto me if I preach not the Gospel." This is the Gospel- "The Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world!"

I knew there was a specific reason I needed to meditate on the message. Evangelism methods many times focus on "personal testimony." It is said "no one can argue what God has done for you personally." That is entirely accurate and true. The relative freedom (in a society closed to the Gospel) to make "personal" statements such as "this is what God has done for me and how He changed my life," has probably kept the government happy to grant me a visa year after year. Who is going to argue with a clown?

But a billion people need to know He died for THEM! When class was over this afternoon, one girl approached with her notebook and said, "Would you please write the most important sentence you know; one that has made the most impact?"

Thank you Oswald. "For God so loved the world, He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believes in Him shall not perish but have everlasting life." John 3:16

Tonight, at the end of another long day far away from home, I know there is a young girl probably studying in one of her many books, writing homework she must complete by tomorrow, and perhaps pondering things she might have heard for the first time. I know my God is watching over His Word, to see that it does not return to Him void. It is like a tiny seed, waiting to be watered, waiting to sprout, waiting for sunshine.

Faithfully farming with a smile on my face!

"...not for ours only, but also for the sins of the whole world." 1 John 2:2
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Lake Wobegon

2010-10-14T08:46:00.000-05:00

"And that's all the news this week from Lake Wobegon. Where all the women are strong, men are good looking and the children are above average." Garrison Keillor the Prairie Home Companion
My friend began each of her English speaking classes today with two questions written on the chalkboard. "What is the news this week in China? What about the rest of the world?"

The exercise is meant to assist them in changing their thought process from one language to another. Chatter breaks out as the students partner up and my friend makes the rounds through the classroom reminding them, "English only please."

After a few minutes they are asked to stand and give their answers. It was interesting and informative for the blonde, blue-eyed visitor at the back of the room. I learned the price of cabbage has gone up considerably here, and a fight broke out between the Chinese and the Brazilian basketball players. Noteworthy, but to an outsider not so news worthy.

What about the rest of the world?

Jeeely!

"Jeeely?" My friend responded. And then all the students said the word "rescue." "Oh, Chile. The 33 miners that were rescued after 69 days." Now, THAT IS news.

I have often heard, "All of heaven rejoices when a sinner repents." I can't say I have ever put much thought into the truth, actuality, or how is that REALLY possible until today. I thought it was like the tag line Garrison Keillor closed his "news from Lake Wobegon" with. All the women are strong, the men are good-looking and the children are above average. Angels rejoicing is a nice catchy phrase to end a sermon or after the sixth chorus of "Just as I Am."

But I have followed the news story of the trapped miners, buried beneath tons of earth on three separate continents. I heard it in Russia, in the USA, and now, in a country not so open with world news 20,000 miles away from the mining town where the event is taking place. Thirty-three men "trapped" have held the attention of the world for 69 days. Why did I ever find is difficult to believe, REALLY the rejoicing that occurs in heaven when a person "trapped" in sin is set free? Perhaps my brain and my faith is not so far "above average?"

My visit here at the university is designed to trigger questions that will have faith and spiritual answers. It has happened consistently every year I have come for the past ten years. Today one of the young men stood and asked what I thought was more important, meeting physical needs or spiritual needs?

This is what we have come to refer to as "the open door policy." While there are definitely limits on speaking about Christianity, there are no boundaries on sharing you personal answer about your personal belief. The students were eager to hear and listened attentively to my responses, all which generally began with the phrase, "I am a Christian...," or "as a Christian we follow the Bible...the Bible teaches..." "As a Christian I belief God the creator is good and just..."

The last question of the last class was "You take care of so many people, how do you take care of yourself when you are sad, or lonely, or hurting?"

Once again, probably like all the "strong women" of Lake Wobegon - I began, "I am a Christian...

I pray.

I have friends that pray for me and encourage me.

You out there, in Russia, in Ghana, in Kenya, in Tanzania, in Israel, in India, in China, in Texas (we are a whole 'nother country you know) and all over the good ole US of A, we ARE more than the above average residents of Lake Wobegon. We ARE children of the King. We are more than strong, we are CONQUERORS!

There may not be paparazzi hounding us on the streets, but what we are accomplishing here on earth IS being talked about in the heavenlies! ANGELS are watching us! Sometimes it's said, today's news is tomorrow's bird cage liner. What we do won't be found in tomorrow's trash heap it will be rejoiced over for eternity.

Smiling at the Headlines of service
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Circles

2010-10-13T18:00:00.000-05:00

I admit I haven't thought much about the derivative of the phrase "prayer circle" until I found myself reading the following verse in The Message:

"God's angel sets up a circle of protection around us while we pray." Psalm 34:7

Here in Tai'an, China I know I am in desperate need of some "circles." I arrived yesterday after 38 travelling hours and finally collapsed at 7:00 last night. I slept fairly well and I am feeling adjusted this morning. I await the arrival of my friend, and we will be heading out for our first round of classes. The goal is to prompt questions about "why" and "how" I do the things I do and go the places I go.

Once that is introduced, I will be free to give them the REAL reason (although it is not Christmas, Jesus IS the "reason for this season" here in China).

Please join me in making some circles by praying.

More to come
Until He comes
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Ice Makers, Hair Dryers and a Pot to $*#s In

2010-10-11T20:00:00.000-05:00

Just six weeks after my 51st birthday I actually had a "senior moment." Until I crossed over to the downhill slide to glory, I flippantly (and crudely) referred to such incidents as "brain f*rts." Now, I know what my "senior" friends have been referring to. I suppose the Father was honing my compassion skills or letting me know- more to come.

I was packing for China, locating my costume, clothes, checking weather and all the other very familiar routines I execute before I leave for yet another foreign destination. For the life of me, I could not remember where I had unpacked (from Russia) my clown paraphernalia. Then to compound the senior confusion - I couldn't even remember how long I have been home; was my office unpacked when I got back? WHAT! I have been home for more than a few weeks!? What have I been doing with my time? Where is that important and convenient place I would have put the items I would turn around and reuse for China?

I decided just to go to my nice comfortable bed, access my refreshing shower the next morning, have a cool drink to make use of my handy ice maker (it has been 10 years since I have had such luxury). Then I would dry my hair in front of the bathroom mirror! Oddities of comfort that I am strangely unfamiliar with. My hair dryer would trip the breaker in my old apartment unless I was using the outlet in my living room. And the piece de' la resistance - a pot to....

sit down on.

Trust me, this really is a luxury; simple and taken for granted but I thank the Lord wherever I find myself in the world and this is afforded to me.

I located all I needed the following day, tossed it off to my AARP renewal lapsing, and prepared myself with the most important aspect before leaving on any adventure.

I pour over the Word and my selected Daily Devotionals. After the day I had experienced I took note of the Oswald Chambers entry:

"We are not made for the mountains, for sunrises, or for the other beautiful attractions in life - those are simply to be moments of inspiration. We are made for the valley and the ordinary things of life, and that is where we have to prove our stamina and strength....we are inclined to think that everything that happens is to be turned into useful teaching. In actual fact, ...it is to be turned into character." Oswald Chambers

I am not sure how much "character" squatting in jungles, deserts, and hillsides where I learned the hard way about gravity- I have formed - but I have definitely turned into a character filled with stories.

No ice, questionable food, odd smells, unsanitary conditions and all the other personal discomforts that remove any source of comfort from my zone has equipped me. Truly, I can agree with Paul, I have had much and I have had nothing and I have learned to be content in all circumstances.

I have also learned to be very thankful when I can sit down and read a magazine when the moment of "blessing" (as it is know in the mission field) presents itself.

I am returning to China for the 9th time. It will be a different trip than I have had the last eight years. My friends have relocated to Tai'an (the original city I visited in 2001). I will not be visiting Beijing or Jinan. I will be focusing on helping my friends plow the new fallow ground of the Medical University where they are teaching. This is an exciting opportunity. There are new students, new territories and many strongholds.

In 2001, on my first visit to China in one of the classes where I "performed" the Foreign Affairs officer was attending. He approached us after class and said "There is an orphanage here, will you go?". Of course I did. This was unprecedented access granted to a foreigner at the time. It opened the door for other foreigners to return to the facility to minister to the workers, hold the disfigured and dying, encouraging and love the living, and bring the light of Christ's love into a forgotten place.

When I sent out the email requesting prayer in 2001 - at the same time - my car was being stolen in Dallas! Then, you may recall 4 years ago, the Chinese government sent me a special invitation to attend the 90th Anniversary celebration of the orphanage. Much fanfare, special treatment and deluxe accommodations were given to the "special friends" of the orphanage. It was a mountain top indeed. But coming down from the mountaintop I faced the dark valley of the shadow of death. My companion was deliberately struck by a car.

It is clear there is a stronghold in this particular area. Tai'an is home to the holiest mountain (of seven) to Confusionism. The philosopher had a great enlightening there. It is believed if you see the sunrise after climbing to the top of Mount Tai, good fortune will be on your life. We take mountain REMOVING faith to this area. We are bringing TRUTH to bring people out of "confusion."

"God's protection is preparation for God's service. We go in that we might go out. We worship that we might work; we rest that we might serve." Warren Wiersbe - The Bumps are What we Climb On

I am climbing on the "bumps" of past experiences and exposure to traumatic and perilous events. I have been protected by the sovereign hand of the Almighty! I am here to worship the King I love. I have rested up to go out (again) and serve Him fully.

Jumping over stones with a smile
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Fair Fried Fare

2010-10-06T11:16:00.001-05:00

"Why do you spend your money on junk food, your hard-earned cash on cotton candy? Listen to me, listen well: Eat only the best, fill yourself with only the finest...you'll summon nations you've never heard of, and nations who have never heard of you will come running to you." Isaiah 55:2;4-5 The Message

Each Monday night when I find myself state side, all three of my children come over to my house for dinner, "Monday@Mom's." It's a tradition we started at the beginning of this year and we have managed to carry it through with only a few absences (aside from my schedule).

My first week back from Russia, both my sons were at a friends "destination wedding." This week, knowing I would be leaving for China next Monday, my oldest son suggested we all go to the State Fair. It is a paradise of food, though mostly fried, of all varieties. There is even an annual contest for the Best Taste and Most Creative. Last year the grand dame of TV Talk herself appeared (Oprah) to try the award winning Fried Butter!

When I read the passage in Isaiah on Monday, I took note of the way The Message translated it. "Cotton Candy!" Okay, I would have none of that, and perhaps I could justify some of the items I would select that evening as having health benefits: protein rich (sausage on a stick), vegetables (corn on the cob slathered with butter), etc...

We come by our need of justification naturally. This "little" bit-o-bad we do, really isn't all that bad. What we do and how we give to support and follow the Great Commission is due to the economic downturn. We are building up storehouses when tonight our very lives may be required of us! (See Luke 12:16-21)

The calendar for our Fall Ministry may seem ambitious. October will find us in China and a few days after our return we will serve the Wounded Warriors in San Antonio. The following week will take us back to India. Impossible, nothing is too hard for the King we serve.

Each day as the "bad news" scrolls across the bottom of the TV channel, I see it as an invitation to share the Good News more, and more often.

I did eat the fried food Monday, but every day I feast on the Word of the Living God. Nations are crying out, "Come, tell us of the Savior." In the heavenlies, the Lord of all creation is still inquiring, "Whom shall I send? And who will go for us?"

I still answer with a smile, "Here I am, send me!"

There is still time and a great need for your prayerful financial participation in the upcoming Fall Ministry activities. You can impact the lives of over 2000 orphans, university students in China, wounded soldiers, their families in America, and rural village men, women and children who have never heard the name of Jesus in India. That's three continents of the Kingdom advancing!

To make a donation by credit card visit our website:

www.sunshineafterrain.org

Remember each day to "taste and see the Lord is good."

And just in case you are wondering about the bad stuff of the 2010 Big Tex Choice Award winners:

Best Taste
Texas Fried Frito Pie: a generous portion of chili accented with a hint of sharp cheddar cheese, encased in everybody's favorite corn chip. Lightly battered and fried to a golden brown perfection.

Most Creative
Fried Beer: Beer-filled pretzel pocket deep fried to a golden brown. One bite and the escaping beer serves as a dipping sauce.
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Hot Water

2010-09-17T11:04:00.000-05:00

"I give you this charge: Preach the Word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke and encourage - with great patience and careful instruction." 2 Timothy 4:2

It is hard to "be prepared." Although it is the Boy Scout's motto, I am not sure even "Boy Scout" (or Girl Scout) training could prepare me for the plethora of things that can and often do go wrong in the mission field. My frequent mission traveling companion has a "what if" bag. In it you can find a variety of medications, preparations and of course duct tape. We all know that most things can be repaired with a strip of the mighty-handy gray stuff!

I have been back in the states a few days and have been occupied with unpacking the boxes I left behind in my new apartment. I entertained myself watching the classic "Gone with the Wind" (for the hundredth+ time) and noted probably for the first time just how many incidents there were in the life of Scarlett O'Hara that she remarked, "I'll think about that tomorrow."

For a person of faith, "tomorrow" has enough evil of its own. (Matthew 6:34) We are reminded in the Word, to ask for "daily" provision, live and plan for today. When I was speaking of my schedule to my new apartment manager, he said, "Whoah, don't people in your line of work (he knew I was a missionary) ever get a day off?" I laughed and replied, "No, there are people always on their way to hell." He laughed too - but it IS pretty serious business.

We have to be ready, in season and out. When we feel like it and when we don't. When we are carrying a "what if" bag and when we find ourselves in the "oh, *#&" position.

We were in Russia during the season of "no hot water." It has always seemed so strangely odd to my Western mindset, that the government controls ALL the hot water and the heat piped into apartments and buildings. During the fall, before the unforgiving Russian winter freezes the ground rock solid, maintenance is done on the pipes. They know, if some malfunction were to occur during the winter, well.... nothing could be done (or at least without great expense) to fix the problem until spring.

But before you get too sympathetic to this missionary going "without," let me explain. Due to the economic change in the former Soviet country, people now are buying small hot water heaters for this "season." Our hotel had one room with just such a heater, and we were able to access it as needed (along with all the other guests). Our Russian hosts were embarrassed and apologetic. I tried to reassure them, if I am not battling bugs in the bed or showering out of a bucket, all is good and I am fine.

The predicament did make me think of the "preparedness" of the country. They know (both the government and individuals) what needs to be done before the coming months of winter. They work to ensure they are as ready as they can be for the long season of frigid temperatures. They know how to survive, they are familiar with discomfort.

We, on the other hand, are not.

We are irritated easily, frustrated frequently, and in general aren't very patient when things break down.

"But you - keep your eye on what you're doing; accept the hard times along with the good; keep the Message alive; do a thorough job as God's servant." 2 Timothy 4:5 The Message

Over the short time we were in Russia, we ministered to close to 300 orphans. We encouraged the Body of believers, we supported each other, we kept the faith, we finished the race!

Thoroughly God's servant,
Smiling still
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Satellites, Salsa and Silliness

2010-09-14T14:28:00.000-05:00

He sat on the couch less than three feet away from me. Modern technology is more than amazing it feels like a miracle!

As I posted the photo I took with my ever handy Blackberry on Facebook, somewhere in outer space, satellites were receiving the encoded message of bytes and bits, colors and lines and sending them through the sky.

Ping!

His telephone signaled a message, "You have been tagged in a photo."
Although a mere three feet separated us physically, it took thousands of miles for the photo on my phone to reach his. Zhenya smiled a crooked smile. I was a bit comical as I mimicked the miracle that had just taken place. "Ping, pee, ping, ping, ping!" The sound effects were silly but amazing at the same time. No less than the techno-miracle taking place right now on the other side of the world from most of the readers, I sit at the end of another day communicating the greatness of our God.

"Look, He is coming with the clouds, and every eye shall see Him." Revelation 1:7

When I read those verses as a child I couldn't begin to comprehend the future He had planned for me. Any more than I could imagine just how every eye on earth could see His coming. I had no doubt of the truth of the text or the power of the promise but it did seem a bit like science fiction to a little girl's mind. "Just how is that even possible." Forty years later I still can't begin to explain the vast mysteries of God, but neither can I explain how a photo taken on a metal and plastic machine about as big as my grade school calculator made the jump through space and landed three feet away from me on a similar device.

Strange things are happening these days. Today we ate at a new restaurant in town, "Bar-ak O' Mama's." It serves genuine recreated Tex-Mex food; fajitas on a "sizzling pig-iron plate", quesadillas with salsa, and nachos with a side of delicious defrosted frozen guacamole! None of us is sure the American actress Monique realizes her image is being used as its logo, nor can we figure out why an African American female comedian would entice customers to sample food originating in Mexico and altered in the great state of Texas.

"Ping, pee, ping, ping, ping!"

At 10:30 each evening the residents of Hope House all come down to A and R's apartment for prayer. Praises are offered, requests are made known and a general "checking in" is communicated. It is a special time with a family feel; everyone stands to pray. The opening was spoken in Russian, I closed in English, while the Spirit spoke with words no one in the room heard or would understand. A listening God who interprets all languages.

"Give them joy in My house of prayer." Isaiah 56:7

Ping, pee, ping, ping, ping! :o)
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Arm in Arm

2010-09-14T14:24:00.000-05:00

"The Harvester isn't waiting. He's taking His pay, gathering this grain that's ripe for eternal life. Now the Sower is arm in arm with the Harvester, triumphant." John 4:36

We left early Tuesday morning to make the long drive to Sovetsk. It is a small town (relatively speaking) but is the location of the orphanage of B's adopted son as well as a school for hearing impaired children. Over the years, we visited on three occasions. Since it has been 8 years since I was last in the town, I assumed most of the children would be long gone, or have been too young to remember our visit. How memorable amidst all that goes on in a childhood could it really be?

Yesterday I found out.

Although all of the children in the "Deski-dome" of Artyom (B's son) were unfamiliar to us, many of the teachers and the elderly man who taught wood-working smiled and greeted us warmly at our arrival. The afternoon took us over to the deaf school. After our program the older children (who had been standing in the doorway listening) ran in and hugged me. They were speaking quickly (with their hands) and laboring to get the sounds out to communicate (through their hearing loss) of how they remembered me.

They were hugging, hanging on, grabbing friends to take photos and talking (in their own special language) of how special it was I had returned to them. The teacher told us this was their last year to be in school.

Several in the group were teenage boys, very calm and collected with this "clown." I asked, "You remember me?" That was all it took. They started laughing. "Yes, we have your picture." Amazed that a simple Polaroid in a frame would last for 9 years, they all shook their heads to indicate they not only had 1 photo, they had 3, one from each visit I made to see them.

During the years of East West bringing teams for orphan ministry, part of the experience was taking a Polaroid photo and watching it develop. The "leader" of the craft station would then explain the "process" of the picture developing; a picture of what God's process is in their life. At first you can't see the imagine; but the longer you wait, the clearer the imagine - the plan for a future and a hope.

"But even if mothers forget, I'd never forget you - never. Look, I've written your names on the backs of my hands." Isaiah 49:16

Mothers perhaps have not "forgotten" their children now living in the orphanages across the world, even so, God's promise is He never forgets!

Remembering well with a smile
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Direct Orders

2010-09-11T09:52:00.000-05:00

"He will command His angels concerning you, to guard you in all your ways." Psalm 91:11

Sometimes when I am out in the field I just have to breathe the verse in Psalm 91. The 5 hour journey to Sanchursk took us (as I say to the children) far, far, far, ffffaaaaaarrrrrrrrrr away.

Although it has been 8 years since East West brought a team from America here to build the gymnasium floor, not much about the town has changed. The pre-war buildings still stand, and the few Soviet era ones are in the same disrepair as then.

We arrived, and were met by various children on their way here or there (to school, from school) greeting us with the familiar "Privyet." We went inside and the absence of children made a surreal setting. I remembered clearly our first visit (1999) when the Director took a map from the wall and drew a "Line of Friendship" from their town to ours (Dallas, TX). He assured us we would always be connected and after so many years, I definitely felt we were.

The children soon began coming in and 2 boys came up to me. The taller of the two said, "He still has your photo from 1st class on the wall." While the boy (Ilya) he was referring to did not look familiar at first, as soon as he smiled I easily recognized him. I gave him a big hug and we had one of the church members take a new photo.

Among the group of around 100 gathered about 12 or so had been there when we came and built the gym floor. It made us glad to see them again.

It made us sad to see them still in a remote town, far from anywhere, orphaned by cruel circumstances that were out of their control.

But not out of His control.

"He WILL set His angels charge over you."

I have to realize, those words are not just for me riding on some narrow dangerous roadway at night, but for all the children I see in orphanages across the globe. They may still be residing in buildings that would be condemned in our "good ole U S of A" but HIS angels are residing there too.

After the program we asked about the gymnasium. The Director, teacher and assistant grinned from ear to ear. They shared the children have won hundreds of awards and have won first prize in the region for "Best all Around Sports" two consecutive years.

"Guard you in all your ways."

I don't remember if we gave much thought about the impact that project would have in the future of the children's lives. Of course, we thought it was significant but we could never have imagined how empowering it would be. Orphans who are generally ostracized and discriminated against in Russian society are now champions!

"He is able to do more abundantly than all we can ask or imagine, according to the power that is working within us." Ephesians 3:20

Traveling on the power
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Ancient Chinese Proverb

2010-09-06T09:52:00.000-05:00

"You can count the seeds in an apple, but you cannot count the number of apples in the seeds." Chinese Proverb (really old)

In fourteen years of ministry, I could not begin to count or remember all the times I have shared the Jewish children's folk tale of "The Apple Tree." I came upon the story when I was taking my first "official" ministry trip to Israel in the Fall of 1996. It was during the High Holy days which begin with the New Year celebration known as Rosh Hashanah. Traditionally apples and honey are shared to represent the hopes for the next year to be a bountiful and sweet harvest. I find it no small coincidence the Lord of the Harvest brought me back to Kirov (after 7 years) to show me the bounty of His "Apple Tree" during the same season (Rosh Hashanah is September 9).

"You did not choose me, but I chose you to bear fruit, fruit that would last." John 15:16

In the story, the little apple tree looks around the forest of big oak trees. Every night stars twinkle in the branches. The other trees are tall and strong. The apple tree prays to be like all the other trees. The Lord tells the apple tree, "Be patient." Seasons change and the apple tree has beautiful blossoms. Still all the apple tree can see is the other trees and how lovely the stars in the branches are. The apple tree prays again, again the Lord says, "Be patient." Seasons change and apples are now in the branches. The apple tree is still unhappy, but the unhappiness has now turned to anger. "Why can't the Creator, just do this one thing? I want stars in my branches!" The wind starts to blow and all the trees bow down before the Lord. The apple tree starts shaking and an apple falls from the tree and breaks open (if cut horizontally, the seeds of an apple are in the shape of a star). The Lord says, "You see little apple tree, everything your heart desired I put inside you all along."

We arrived in Kirov Sunday morning after another overnight train ride rocking and rolling down the tracks across the rural Russian countryside. We had just enough time to check into our hotel and get a bit organized before heading off for church. It was a sweet time of fellowship with old friends, and definitely another Zephaniah 3:20 fulfillment. (All those painful partings I will turn into joyous reunions).

Tears (to water the seeds) ran down my cheeks as I saw the young orphan boy (Pasha) the Pastor and his wife adopted 11 years ago. Of course he has grown into a young man and ran over to greet us with a warm embrace.

"I am Pasha; now I am 16, you knew me when I was just a little boy. It is wonderful to see you again."

After the service Barbara, thanked the church for praying for her during the adoption of her son and for the many years we have participated with them in orphan ministry. Then another young man approached us and through the interpreter explained his identity.

"I am Daniel. I am from the orphanage in Sanchursk. You came in 2002 and built a floor for our gymnasium. Thank you for all you have done."

Barbara asked if he had family (perhaps a grandmother or aunt) that he was now living with in Kirov (Sanchursk is about 150 miles away). The young man just shook his head and looked around the church. "No, this is my only family."

We spent the evening with the Pastor and his wife and another dear friend who has served as an interpreter down through the years. We discussed the week ahead of us, travel times, program details and then we spoke of Pasha and Daniel the boy from Sanchursk. They shared about the gym floor our team of Americans came and built. Now, it is not just used by the children at the orphanage, but by the whole city for their athletic events.

I shared my memory of Pasha and the first time we met in the orphanage when I shared the story and I used him as the apple tree. The Pastor said, "Now you will make me start crying." His wife had a head start as the tears streamed down her face. She began speaking with great emotion. She said while they were waiting to adopt Pasha, she wrote letters to him and said, "Remember the apple tree? You must be patient." With joy at the remembrance she said, "Even today those letters are at the orphanage. They still tell the story to the children. It gives them the hope of God's plan for their lives."

Three young men (Pasha, Daniel and Barbara's adopted son Artyom) are a testimony to the Harvest of souls the Father has raised up in this region. Almost two thousand years ago a young Jewish carpenter told stories (parables) still being shared today. It makes me wonder how big that little apple tree story is going to grow!

"But the seed planted in the good earth represents those who hear the Word, embrace it, and produce a Harvest beyond their wildest imagination." Mark 4:20

Sowing in the morning, sowing in the evening always smiling (even when there are tears)
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You Are Not Alone

2010-09-04T11:51:00.000-05:00

"God, who got you started in this spiritual adventure, shares with us the life of His Son and our Master Jesus. He will never give up on you. Never forget that." 1 Corinthians 1:8-9

It is hard to embrace the truth of the scripture Paul wrote to the believers in Corinth. God never gives up on us - no matter what! During what we have come to refer to as the Last Supper, the Master comforted His disciples by saying, "I will not leave you as orphans." (John 14:18) Being "orphaned" (left without provision, protection, love and nurturing) is a hard fact of life for the young men with whom we spent the last few days. They graduated out of the system and are now facing the world on the world's terms. It is not an easy, friendly or familiar place.

The statistics of what happens when most leave the safety of the "Internat" is staggering. Many commit suicide out of sheer desperation, others turn to alcohol to anesthetize the pain of loneliness; a majority participate in criminal activity (or are victimized by it) just to survive the "mean streets" of reality.

Those who consistently traveled to work with the orphan population, saw the overwhelming need for a place to help them transition from institutional life to day-to-day "living." A couple committed to pure religion undefiled (see James 1:27) left the comfort of family, friends, church, and community and moved to Russia to make sure the orphans they had spent years ministering to would not fall through the cracks of a broken world. Thus, the ministry of Hope House began.

They knew there would be no way they could provide housing for the multitudes coming into the city each year, so along with providing a place of residency for some, they also provide a place of refuge for others. Collectively, the missionaries and the transitional residents developed a program where those coming out of the orphanage system and into the harsh reality of the world, could meet weekly and come to understand (like the Corinthians) God never gives up on them. He does not leave them, EVER. They named their fellowship the "You Are Not Alone" Club.

It is always a blessing to be a small part of a great work! We left with full hearts and overflowing eyes. We arrived in Moscow this morning and will board a train northward bound this evening to Kirov, the next leg of our journey.

We will arrive in the morning and attend church. Monday we will have a time of preparation to purchase items for the coming day's orphanage visits. During our time in Kirov we will have the opportunity to share with over 500 children. We pray to carry the message of hope, and the truth of the Father to the fatherless, "You are not alone."

"The secret of the missionary is - I am His, and He is carrying out His enterprises through me." Oswald Chambers (My Utmost for His Highest: Sep 4)

Smiling and rolling down the tracks in His service,
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Magi Gifts

2010-09-02T02:21:00.000-05:00

"So here is what I want you to do, God helping you: take your everyday ordinary life - your sleeping, eating, going to work, and walking-around-life - and place it before God as an offering." Romans 12:1-2

I love train rides. I can't remember ever traveling by one in the United States, but on the other side of the world they add an extra dimension to the adventure. We chose to take the First Class train to Voronezh which would ensure a few critical things for two women who don't speak much of the language:

1. There would only be two beds in the compartment, and they would be occupied by us
2. There would be no smoke in the compartment, because neither of us smoke
3. All our items would be safe and secure because we would be sleeping on top of them!

The gentle rocking motion of the train rolling down the tracks usually makes for a pleasant night's sleep. Alas, that was a train I remember from a distant journey or downright fantasy land. This train with all of its above mentioned bonus options through first class turned into a bucking bronco at a rodeo around midnight.

Did my one year in age shrink these compartment beds, they sure seem a lot smaller than I remember? Stopping every thirty minutes (make that lurching and screeching to a dead halt) wasn't in the recesses of my romaniticized form of travel either. As I "rode the rails" through the Russian night, needless to say I wasn't sleeping.

By the time our alarm woke B and irritatingly reminded me of my state of consciousness, we were more than ready to get off. While the wild bronco ride had me awake, it made my companion nauseous. Not a fun way to start the day - until the final stop, and I looked out to see bright orange signs, and long-stemmed roses greeting us with our friends enthusiastically waving the Happy Birthday greetings!

It was so worth it. Our ordinary birthdays laid down and shared in extraordinary ways.

We arrived at the Hope House just as the guys were coming down to say a quick hello and goodbye before they were off for their first day of school (university, trade school or other institute of learning). I made all the arriving barely awake guys sing a chorus of "Happy Birthday." They laughed, familiar with the tune, but the English...?

All day we shared with different guys who would come in. B had a chance to meet them and interact as they made their way back out into the world that once rejected them.

In our conversations with A and R we heard a common thread, their taking of the "everyday, ordinary, things of their life" and laying them down as sacrifices before God in a faraway and unfamiliar land. Celebrating and investing in the lives of the young men here at Hope House as if they were their own flesh-born children. In many ways they are so much more than that. They are the Spirit-born gifts of the Father of the fatherless who has provided the strength and grace for them to do so.

"He that believes in Me, out of him shall flow rivers of living water." John 7:38

We are privileged to watch the flowing river of their love, run up and down the stairs; come in and grab a boiled egg to go, after A. reminds them they "need to eat something" before starting their day. We admired the overflow of that flood of rushing water looking at the new shoe rack designed for the entry hall, and built by R and V on a cloudy afternoon. We sat with Z, who probably understood 90% of what was being said, but spoke not a word, he just sat, enjoying the warmth of being included as "family."

"Be good friends who love deeply..." Romans 12:10 The Message

Loving, learning and letting the rivers flow!
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Planes, Trains, and...

2010-09-02T00:32:00.000-05:00

broken suitcases.

Yes, it happens. Suitcases break. Especially when "one" (ie. ME) has been known to pack to the max, stretching zippers and pockets well past their intended limits.

We met up in Frankfurt without incident (unless you count B's hike due to mis-information from the airport staff from Terminal B to C and back to B) and were on our way to Moscow together. In May, we were surprised by the new airport. But we must have picked the day everyone chose to return to Moscow. It was a ZOO! Literally, there were thousands of people, school children returning from trips abroad and not one luggage cart to be found.

This presented a problem. We had more bags than hands. We tied (bags together), we negotiated (through the masses), and we went through the "Green Line" (nothing to declare." However, nothing says "something to declare" like to foreign exasperated women with 250 lbs of luggage.

The woman motioned for us to leave the throng we were moving through so our bags could be examined. Now, to let go of the managed and balanced suitcases, to place them on the x-ray machine made for one unhappy traveler. Sensing my frustration (indignation) the customs agent asserted her full authority and said, "that is not my problem, you are in customs." As I lifted the 70 lbs, the handle broke along with the last straw.

Once they were through the machine, I quickly retrieved mine and headed for the door. B was not so lucky. The agent asked her to open her bag. Out popped the toys, the games, the coloring books and other items for the orphanages. She pulled what we fondly refer to as "the orphan card.". "Deski-dome." (Orphanage in Russian) and put the sad face on in an effort to move the agent from potential "bribe mode" to "bless you" mode. It worked.

That's what happens when you take on the King's mission. Minions of the enemy set their sites on you in an effort to distract, discourage, disillusion, and disappoint.

We remain determined.

We stayed overnight with one of East West's former employees, we dined royally (on rabbit) and were treated like the Birthday Queens that we are.

Now we find ourselves stuck on the Olympic highway leading into the city and the train that will take us to Voronezh. Ann and Robert and the guys of Hope House are eagerly waiting for our arrival.

Our time has been impaired by traffic accidents (3) but it is no accident that we are here!

Onward, upward, through-ward to "the good works He prepared for us before the foundations of the world were laid."

Mission bound smiling
Birthday Girl
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RUSSIA - Calendar of Events

2010-08-27T15:31:00.001-05:00

Aug 29 - Happy Birthday Sista B

Departure

Aug 30

Arrive Moscow

Overnight Moscow

Aug 31- Happy Birthday ME!

Day in Moscow

Overnight train to Voronezh

Sep 1

Arrive in Voronezh

Hope House Ministry

Sep 2

Hope House Ministry

Sep 3

Hope House Ministry

Overnight train to Moscow

Sep 4

Arrive in Moscow

Overnight train to Kirov

Sep 5

Arrive in Kirov

Worship with Kirov Bible Church

Sep 6

Prepare and make purchases for Orphanage programs

Sep 7 - 9

Orphanage outreach

Sep 10

Local ministry

Overnight train to Moscow

Sep 11

Arrive in Moscow

Sep 12

Depart for USA

Arrive USA

Going, Going, Gone...

2010-08-27T15:29:00.001-05:00

"He put your feet on a wonderful road that took you straight to a good place to live." Psalm 107:7

I DO live in a good place. It is still filled with boxes - but it is a good place. Once I settle in, it will be a great place. In the meantime - I can still say it is a very good place, because all my dirty clothes have been washed (already) and are set to put back in my suitcase for my departure THIS Sunday (August 29)for Russia.

Sunday morning we shared a last meal and a lot of tears with the families. The Chaplain delivered a message of commitment to Christ and His hope for their lives. He then offered a time for the families to share their experiences of the weekend. In the room were probably some of the toughest, most courageous men in the military standing up sharing their, "feelings." Now you don't see THAT everyday.

One by one, the Marines stood and expressed how much having time with their families meant to them; how a good dose of laughter had been a great medicine! There must have been beach sand blowing through the vents because eyes were watering all around.

Last night, I was sharing with my son a time when someone in the group thanked the soldiers. Universally across the room came the response, "MARINES." He didn't understand the difference and neither did I (until it happened in San Diego). He said "isn't a soldier a soldier?" The best analogy I could come up with was if a Navy Seal (their elite special operations fighting branch) had been called a "sailor."

There is a difference, and those in the battlefield know. Words and labels get watered down and loose their true identity the more they are used and mis-used. I typically refer to myself as a "Believer." The term "Christian" has developed a stigma here in the Bible Belt. I want people to make certain defining associations when they label me. God forbid anyone confuse me with a "clown."

"Any mission assigned will be accomplished in a superior manner no matter what the obstacles."

This is a vow every Marine makes when he commits to serve our nation and fight for freedom. I wish the "Believers" followed and executed the same seriousness of oath taking when they make a commitment to follow Christ. Of course the invitation songs, long out of "fashion" and seldom sung in the "contemporary" services held some of those truths. "I have decided to follow Jesus, no turning back, no turning back." Most have forgotten the "mission" everyone has been assigned: "GO, and make disciples."

I am going, and going, and going. You might think it is foolish or unwise or worse. I may not be a Marine, a Navy Seal, or an Army Ranger, but I AM in an elite Special Operations Command Unit! I am not trying to take a hill in Afghanistan or Iraq, I am trying to save the WORLD! For the God I served so loved the world, that He sent His only Son...

Dramatic, you had better believe it! It IS worth fighting for, it is what I live for, and it IS worth dying for - as every soldier and Marine knows there IS a greater cause than themselves. Working together WE can defeat the already defeated enemy, we CAN take back territory (hearts and souls) our Sovereign King purchased.

I can't send out an Uncle Sam pointing his menacing finger saying, "We want You." I can't send a patriotic photo using the Marine slogan, "We're looking for a few good men." What I can send from my traveling typewriter is the reminder you voluntarily committed your life to serve the King when you accepted His gift of salvation.

Boot camp is over. The war in the heavenlies is raging. I'm returning to fight behind enemy lines. Are you going to have my "back?"

Under the wire - taking territory!

OEF

2010-08-27T15:28:00.001-05:00

We have entered into a world of acronyms. I learned a few of definitions in San Diego, but for some reason (perhaps my approaching birthday) I seem to have forgotten all but OIF and OEF.

During any given conversation, on a range of topics that might include even seemingly non-military activities like car pooling or grocery shopping, the acronyms will start flying faster than humming birds enjoying nectar. "Oh yeah my DEO took my FRA and then the STE said it would be okay. (I am making these up but you get the picture.)

In case you are unfamiliar with the terms, OIF was the first military action: Operation Iraqi Freedom, and the current action is OEF: Operation Enduring Freedom.

I like the concept; not in military terms but in reference to our daily fight of faith - enduring freedom. We fight against the unseen principalities of darkness for the eternal freedom of others. After the incident last night I assure you he IS out for blood!

The Keynote speaker, had so many great ones on endurance, and perseverance, I was determined to take notes so I could remember them to share (age strikes again). F.I.D.O. turned out to be my favorite, even though the Marines use it in the battlefield. When something doesn't go quite as expected, "Forget It - Drive On."

I have acted engaged when the acronyms started, but... it did give me a caveat when I shared with the women during our afternoon time of pampering.

I explained why those of us who are civilians may have had a glazed look in our eyes when they were talking. They laughed realizing how they do have a special "language" that gives them the ability to communicate a great deal of information effectively and efficiently. It IS the military after all.

I explained my hobbling and the night I had. As they were listening, it felt worth the pain to share the pleasure of a good belly laugh. Then I gave them an acronym they didn't know. P.U.S.H.

Pray Until Something Happens

Be assured there is never any doubt, or discount of the importance of what YOUR prayers do for me personally and the work of the ministry. This side of heaven you and I will never know what the impact our intercession has had for others.

"Take the old prophets as your mentors. They put up with anything, went through everything and never once quit, all the time honoring God. What a gift life is to those who stay the course." 1 Peter 5

These events are referred to as "getaways" because soldiers and Marines NEVER retreat. We could all take a lesson from them.

Resting, knowing the best fighting position is on my knees. I did not learn that working with the military, I learned it from the Leader of the Heavenly Hosts making war on our behalf.

House Calls

2010-08-27T15:27:00.001-05:00

Also know as "Doctors Luke and Laura Part Two"

I stayed up late last night, if you happened to glance at the time stamp on the email you might have wondered what was I thinking writing until 1:00 in the morning! But I am committed to passing on what is going on, and enlisting prayer especially for those enlisted!

I fell asleep, only to wake up a few hours later having ingested too much water while my thumbs were busy typing on the 2" keypad of my portable world. As I made my way back to bed in the dark, my roommate asked in a clearly awake tone, "Are you okay?" I assured her it was just the common nightly necessity for the well-watered.

And then she said, "I'm not."

I stopped motionless at the edge of her bed, "What do you mean?" She replied, "My shoulder is hurting so bad I think you might have to take me to the Emergency Room." "What!" Then she hesitated and said, "Maybe some ice will help." "Great", I'm thinking about the trek down the hall with some reservation. Probably sensing this, the next thing I heard was, "No, just pray."

Now that I can do.

But the next sounds that came out of my mouth were not prayerful. No, I confess they were far from intercession. The next sounds she heard were a string of expletives. "What, what, what?" my roommate was asking. Was this some new form of asking for a response from the heavens?

Actually, on my way to intercede I had stepped on a piece of broken glass (from the first night's accidental breaking of the microwave plate). I switched on the light, blood pouring from my heel, I sat down on the edge of the bed and alerted my friend I was pulling the glass chunk from my heel. As I hobbled to the bathroom to grab a towel to stop the bleeding, I turned to her and said, "I bet you quit thinking about your shoulder."

As I applied pressure, she got up and said, "Maybe I will go down and get some ice." Since the light was on I watched as she walked to the door and pulled off her nightgown. I thought, "her pain has made her delirious!" "What are you doing! You can't go down the hall like that." She said, "No, I am changing into my swimsuit pullover so it doesn't look like a nightgown."

She stood in front of the mirror adjusting the pullover and said, "you know, I think this looks more like pajamas. I'm not sure I should go out like this."

"Don't worry," I assured her, "the Darth Vader mask around your face will distract them." (She wears a C-Pap for her sleep apnea). When she returned with the ice, the bleeding had stopped and I prayed, "We praise you Father for the pain. We praise You for the blood that was shed on our behalf, we praise You even now men and women are in harm's way facing much worse to fight for our freedom..." You get the picture.

After the amens, I said out loud to the minions that had disturbed us, "We are not fighting "for" victory, we are fighting "from" victory. If that is all you've got - bring it on!"

We started singing: "I love, you Lord, and I lift my voice to worship You oh my soul rejoice. Take joy my King, in what You hear, may it be a sweet, sweet sound in Your ear." I think that covered the profanity. We also tried to remember the words to a few other ones but soon tired and gave up.

It was quiet, until we both burst out laughing. We laughed for the better part of an hour. Yes, it did probably hurt when she laughed (my foot was elevated and fine).

"A cheerful heart has a continual feast." Proverbs 15:15

We are fighting an unseen enemy that is trying to halt the work being done. My roommate just expressed this was the worst continuous pain she has ever experienced in her life (and those who know her, know that is saying a lot).

This afternoon the wives are being pampered, and the guys are going to go do physical activities. There is a special evening planned for the couples and the children are going to be away from them for the longest time tonight. With 11 children under the age of 5 that has a lot of potential tear time!

But there will always be laughter!

Doctors Luke and Laura

2010-08-21T06:21:00.000-05:00

No, General Hospital fans, Luke and Laura did not go to med school and become anything other than the Soap Opera characters they play.

I am referring to the writer of the Gospel book and Dr. Laura (of recent notoriety on her gross political incorrectness).

I don't know the context or content; when, where, why or what she said other than the number of times I heard quoted on the news she used THE derogatory term. But come on, we know she is not stupid - she's a doctor! What WAS she thinking?

I thought of this bit of celebrity news tonight because when I looked up the verse I wanted to use to relate today's tale, I realized it was only found in the "doctor's" account of the Nativity.

We listen to doctors.

We put a lot of credence to their words; especially when we feel bad, or are waiting for a diagnosis.

I learned (re-learned) the account of the Angels' visit to the shepherds is only noted in the book of Luke. The physician told of the supernatural happenings announcing the birth. It obviously impressed him, being a man of science, to add that aspect of the Nativity to his writings on the life of Christ.

"...on earth peace, and good will to all men." Luke 2:14

Funny, that is not the way I remembered it. I thought it was "Peace on earth, good will to men." That phrasing, (Google is great) is actually from a Civil War poem by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow set to music and know as "I Heard the Bells on Christmas Day."

I wanted to use the verse as a "play on words," for tonight, here on the East Coast shore, we had a Hawaiian Luau. I am spending my time serving Marines and their families who bring "peace on earth." Several volunteers spent the better part of this afternoon decorating and transforming the entrance to the dining room into a tropical backdrop to take family photos as they arrived.

I brought Hawaiian style shirts for all the participants (I never travel light) for the most part purchased at ...

drum roll please...

Goodwill!

Here we had "peace on earth and Goodwill ON men!"

Perhaps you had to be there to appreciate the festivities - but it was a picture of "a whole lot of happy."* Absolutely supernatural, and certainly worthy of a Longfellow poem!

Not one of the Special Operations Command Unit turned down the opportunity to don a lei and put a floral shirt on top of their own attire. They were even coordinating the colors of the flowers to match their shirts. These are Marines - what is going on?

"A merry heart doeth good like a medicine." Proverbs 17:22

I don't know (and don't particularly care) what Dr. Laura was doing, but Dr. Luke wanted future generations to know what the Angels announced.

God sent His Son for earth's peace; and yet two thousand years later it is still costing lives, and blood is still being shed for its purchase. AND there are still men and women willing to die to give that gift to people they will never meet.

"And in despair, I bow'd my head: "There is no peace on earth," I said,
"For hate is strong and mocks the song, of Peace on earth, good will to men."

Then pealed the bells more loud and deep; "God is not dead, nor doth He sleep; The wrong shall fail, the right prevail with Peace on earth, good will to men."

I have had the great honor to meet and to serve some of the men and women who have VOLUNTEERED to fight for my peace - on my piece of this earth.
I am privileged to call many of them friends.

I will keep coming, and going as long as people like you are willing

to "send in the clown."

Listening for the sound of bells,

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Bring a Gift of Laughter

2010-08-19T23:15:00.000-05:00

Our army of volunteers did not need to hear a bugle to bring us to breakfast and get the day started. Each one of us was eager to "get the show on the road." There are many youth from a local area church to help us entertain and corral the 40+ children of the 20 arriving families.

Shortly after our meal we began logistics training on what was planned for the arrival of the families and these days ahead. Of course, well made plans are seldom executed with accuracy. All of us learned lessons in flexibility, patience, and going with the flow as best as we were able.

Aside from the practical "do's" and "don'ts" the Chaplain spoke from the heart on how critical the time we are sharing with these families really is. Deployed twice to Iraq during some of the worst battlefield casualties, he related his own experience of loss. His wife's father passed away, he was in Iraq; his father-in-law's funeral was held, he was in Iraq; and his daughter celebrated her third birthday, he was in Iraq. All common occurrences in day to day family life, and yet - he sacrificed, they sacrificed, willingly.

He was not telling these events to evoke our sympathy, he was merely sharing how each and everyone of the soldiers, their wives, AND their children are giving up, missing out yet going on - to serve OUR country and fight for OUR freedom.
We sat humbled, contemplating the cost. He shared he was with his battalion (not his family) over Christmas. One of the men in his company asked if he could find him a guitar. Astonished to learn this soldier had any musical talent at all (never came up in conversation), he assured him he would find one.

During the evening service as they celebrated the birth of our Savior, the soldier picked up the guitar and played "What Child is This?" As it turned out, the Marine had been classically trained, but had not played in years. The Chaplain, with tears glazing his eyes even today, said "Marines don't cry. But that night well... we might have gotten sand or something in our eyes that caused them to water a bit."

On December 26th, the Marine went out on patrol. His vehicle hit an IED (improvised explosive devise) his right arm was blown off.

"Haste, haste to bring Him laud.."

It is hard to know just what we can offer, what we can "do" for them or their families that will mean anything. And yet - no labor of love (or for love) is in vain. God promises to honor our efforts even one's that seem as insignificant as finding a guitar for a soldier to offer a (last) song up to His King.

The families arrived through the thunderstorms that were raging all around the South Carolina coast. They were weary, but by dinner and the rock concert that followed they we're ready to roll! Their serious demeanor dropped, as "Tina" (another one of my disordered personalities) had the wives shaking percussion instruments and the Marines dancing in a Conga Line through the dining room. Their children arrived (to enjoy the closing ice cream social) and with dropped mouths at the antics of their parents - soon joined in jamming and jigging up for a scoop of frozen bliss.

Unconventional, no doubt, but don't forget - we are not given weapons of earthly kind. We are given weapons designed to bring down strongholds and principalities of darkness!

"On your feet now, applaud God! Bring a gift of laughter." Psalm 100:2 The Message

Burning calories, and dancing like King David (except for the under clothes part)!
Charlynn
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It Came to Pass

2010-08-16T22:27:00.000-05:00

Once upon a time, when the west winds of Texas blew hot as a campfire with no marshmallows, a not so young woman was told to hit the trail. The "town wasn't big enough for the City folk who knew there was gold in them there dilapidated sheds. Their plans were to come in with giant machinery and build something taller, bigger, better, newer, and probably shiny.

I am used to being "on the move" but this is a new adventure in faith, things hoped for "as yet UNSEEN." There is not much to see in my apartment except piles of boxes and bags (you use what you've got - and I have a lot of suitcases).

I will never forget sitting in a small room in China with a fellowship of fairly new believers. My friends were teaching them how to study the Bible and discern wisdom from its pages. One of the listeners spoke up and made this declaration and in true communist form said, "No Bible, no breakfast!" That indictment has served me well in the years since I was privileged to hear it. In the midst of a huge mess - "no Bible no breakfast."

Today's Oswald Chambers passage hit the mark: "it is when crisis arises that we instantly reveal upon whom we rely...the crisis will reveal that we can go to the point of breaking, yet without breaking our confidence in Him."

The boxes and disorder I see as I look around will eventually find a suitable spot in my organized life. The balance in the ministry bank account will go up and down and even though it is at an all time low - I have faith - for the Lord of the Harvest needs workers willing to go and bring them into the family.

As I was praying for the peace to commit to returning to Russia, my daily Bible reading (no Bible no breakfast) was Acts 26. It is the passage where Paul encounters the Master; "but now up on your feet-I have a job for you. I've hand picked you to be a servant and witness to what's happened today, and to what I'm going to show you. I'm sending you off to open the eyes of the outsiders so they can see the difference between dark and light...I'm sending you off to present my offer of sins forgiven and a place in the family, inviting them into the company of those who begin real living by believing in Me." v. 16-18

I am humbled to have an opportunity to serve the Special Operatives of the United States Marines and their families. I have freedom because men and women like these VOLUNTEER to put themselves in harm's way and LIVE outdoors in the sweltering desert heat carrying over a 100 pounds of gear so I can carry a Bible and pray, and preach in places far from home.

I treasure the opportunity to practice pure religion undefiled and visit the widows and orphans of the Kirov region in Russia. It will be my first trip to the area in seven years.

With all the coming and going, packing and unpacking- my refrigerator is empty. I am feeding on the truth of one of my favorite phrases in the Bible:

"It came to pass..."

It did not come to stay.

On about the Father's business

"What does Scripture say? Charlynn entered into what God was doing for her, and that was the turning point." Romans 4:3 The Message

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"And the Oscar Goes to...

2010-08-16T22:24:00.000-05:00

Sally Fields for Places in the Heart"

What movie buff could ever forget the 1984 acceptance speech the long-time actress gave as she picked up her Oscar that night.

"You like me, you really, really like me."

The Chaplain serving this weekend at the MARSOC Getaway sent out the following email to the arriving volunteers:

"Greetings from US Marine Corps Forces Special Operations Command, Camp Lejeune, NC.

As of today our roster is finalized at 100% and our Marine families are VERY excited. The response has been incredible/miraculous- NO SURPRISE given our fervent prayers, planning and God's fidelity!

Thank you for your prayerful preparation and all the extra miles you're traveling to answer our Lord's call.

We are about to see God do amazing temporal and eternal work in the hearts of many. Without breaching clergy confidence, God is allowing us to minister to a truly special bunch of people that are in great need of Christ-centered encouragement, renewal, and refreshing. I've no doubt God has innumerable appointments planned this very week.

I look forwarded to meeting each of you and watching the Lord work with us all. Be forewarned, you're about to catch an infectious case of "glory bumps"!

On mission with you, See you Wednesday. Chaplain D"

I cried.

Again, as usual, and certainly by now you know it comes naturally.

But I cried because I felt like Sally Fields accepting the Oscar that night. "God really, really LIKES me." I know that might seem a bit hard to grasp (like vs. love), but last night I started reading a book by Brennan Manning one of my close friends (and fellow ragamuffins) gave me. It is called "The Wisdom of Tenderness."

After a long day of packing for South Carolina, unpacking boxes, clarifying schedules for Russia (planes, trains, and automobiles) I was having a hard time following his concept. The introduction seemed to have more "big" words than usual. I thought "Perhaps I'm just overloaded and need to stay at the shallow end of the spiritual pool for now." Regardless, I kept reading the introduction:

"Do I wholeheartedly trust that God likes me?... If you answer without hesitation, "Oh yes, God does like me; in fact, He's very fond of me," you're living in the wisdom of accepted tenderness."

In my fatigue, I had to think too hard to "get" the concept. I thought of all the things the Father has allowed me to be a part of; all the faces and places He has shared with me. I mulled it over and thought, "He must like me." When I read the letter from the Chaplain the weight of His glory and tender mercy washed over me like a Tsunami, taking every anxious thought, financial doubt, disorganized worry about my life away. Tender indeed.

Please pray as the Chaplain directed.

Praise the Father who loves us beyond measure and "likes" us no matter what!

No Oscar needed for this smile
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Left Behind

2010-08-04T09:09:00.000-05:00

"With God's power working in us, God can do much, much more than anything we can ask or imagine." Ephesians 3:20

I am surprised.

After a full day working in the sweltering heat of my westward facing apartment (temperature registered inside at 93 degrees), I look around at my emptied bookcases and I am surprised. What was accomplished the first day was far more than I imagined.

My youngest son came to help last night and he was surprised too! Moving all their mother's "stuff" was one of my children's big fears. They often said if anything happened to me while I was overseas they would just pay rent for my "stuff" in perpetuity! Joking of course, but it was something they didn't want to deal with. And today, I see, it's not all that bad.

Except for the dust.

At the top of one of my bookcases was a box. As my son carefully handed it down to me he said, "I don't know what this is but it sure is dusty." This relocation is giving me an opportunity to dust things off, change things up and prepare for the next journey to the ends of the earth.

Today, I am making my plane reservations and filling out my visa application to return to Russia on August 29. What a wonderful celebration for my birthday, to be with my friends and the young men at Hope House I saw in May. My teammate and I will spend a few days in Voronezh, and then travel north to Kirov to revisit the orphanages we have not been to in many years. It will be a great time of reconnecting with our co-laborers in Christ and ministering to those in need.

But before I head of to the distant shores, I will travel to South Carolina for the second MARSOC (Marines Special Operations Command) event sponsored by Joni and Friends (August 17-23). What a whirlwind.

Dust might be left behind when nothing around it moves, but I want to be sure no souls are!

"God, make a fresh start in me, shape a Genesis week from the chaos of my life." Psalm 51:9

Smiling up a sweat,
Charlynn

Please continue to pray for abundant supply in all things:

Strength
Wisdom
Health
FINANCIAL resources for the upcoming mission

To make a tax deductible donation by credit card online please visit our website:

www.sunshineafterrain.org
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Not My Home...

2010-08-03T06:28:00.000-05:00

"... They admitted they were aliens and strangers on earth. People who say such things show they are looking for a country of their own... longing for a better country-a heavenly one." Hebrews 11:13-16

I have been back in the United States just over 36 hours. It took me 36 hours to get from East Africa to DFW. Somewhere in those numbers is a calculation that should balance out and return me to "normal." But as I look at the disheveled boxes (assembled by my sons late last night) I know I am no where near normal and won't be anytime soon. It doesn't take a calculator to understand I am in a state of chaos.

Two days before I left for Tanzania, the management company hand-delivered a letter informing all residents of the demolition of our "homes." For some, this apartment complex has been a place of comfortable residential community for over 30 years. Yes, you did read that correctly.

Apartments are often thought of as "transitional" places to live; when you first move away from the home of your parents, while you are at school, until you get married, after you get divorced, until your "real" and stable life of home ownership begins. But reality is not a Milton Bradley version of "Life." "First you start out with two thousand and a car." Oh, if things were that lyrical on the way.

"I wonder, "Will I ever make it- arrive in God's presence?" I'm on a diet of tears- tears for breakfast, tears for supper. All day long people knock at my door, pestering, "Where is this God of yours?" These are the things I go over and over, emptying out the pockets of my life." Psalm 42:2-4

I am leaving this "sanctuary" of eight years to create a new one just up the road. As I look at the mountain of boxes and all my "stuff" I am definitely overwhelmed. As soon as I officially vacate this place for the next - I will be back on a plane off to serve the Marine Special Operations Command (MARSOC) in South Carolina (August 17-23).

Somewhere covered in the stack is my suitcase that still needs to be unpacked. I cried this morning (again or still) at the thought of the task at hand. I cried because I want to be effective and efficient and out in the Harvest Fields. I pray for this next week to be a "Forrest Gump" one. You remember when he was being chased by the bullies with his clanking leg braces on? His friend Jenny cheered him from the sidelines, "Run Forrest, Run!" The things used to straighten him up fell by the roadside. He was RUNNING!

"Do you see what this means - all these pioneers who blazed the way, all these veterans cheering us on? It means we'd better get on with it. Strip down and start running and never quit!" Hebrews 12:1

We had an extraordinary time in Tanzania. Over 700 women (and men) heard teaching on the love of Christ and His grace, mercy and mission for those who follow Him. 150 Maasai tribal women received the gift of the Living Word of God. All attendees were given certificates of achievement. And we fulfilled Jesus instructions to His disciple Peter, to "feed My sheep." Each day those in attendance were served a hot meal to sustain and nourish them. Many walked over 3 hours to attend and would have a 3 hour walk to return to their village. Recounting those hardships and difficulties eases the thought of packing and moving in 105• heat.
In 1996, John Piper gave a sermon on "Doing Missions When Dying is Gain." He recounts the story of two Moravians. They knew they would never return to the "sanctuary" of the homeland they were leaving. They knew there was a nation of lost souls that needed to hear the love of Christ and the only way they could was if someone WENT. They sold themselves into slavery and headed to the West Indies.

As the boat drifts out into the harbor they lift their hands and say, "May the Lamb receive the reward of His suffering."

I lift my hands in praise to the Lamb for the world He has allowed me to witness.

I lift my hands in praise for the nations who have responded to the Good News and will send out missionaries to distant lands

I lift my hands in praise at the chaos, for out of chaos came Creation!

I lift my hands in praise for THIS IS NOT MY HOME!

I lift my hands in praise, for worthy is the Lamb!

Move over Moravians
Charlynn adrift
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