To Know Him Better...

Summer Folly

2010-09-30T19:04:00.000-07:00

BBQ, fireworks, and beach trips all were a part of summer come and gone--what a time what a time. It was full from beginning to end with food, friends and fellowship. All summer I enjoy the pleasure of a multitude of Egyptian brothers coming and going from the International House of Prayer (IHOP) Awakening. IHOP Mission base is three city blocks from my humble home.

While the Egyptians brothers were 90% of my guest, I did have others from Australia to Germany. You know God rewards those who seek him diligently. My prayer for you is that you know Him better in the Spirit of knowledge of revelation.

In between hosting I had the honor to be best man in my Brazilian Brother Jason's wedding at New Hope Christian College(formerly Eugene Bible College) in Eugene, Oregon. It was divine love. Jason and Melissa will impact countries for the purposes of Gospel for years to come. Glory to God.

In my NorthWest, excursion I visited for the first time the Salem YWAM Mission Base where I did my DTS. This was my visit there since burning out. It was not the most positive experience in my life. But it was certainly important. It give me a good foundations for mission work.

Mission Egypt Team 2010

2010-04-05T18:59:00.000-07:00

On the week before Palm Sunday three brave ladies from my missionary baptist church and myself went to Cairo, Egypt for mercy missions. Above are four pictures of 1100 plus pictures that tell the stories of amazing ministries journey in and around Cairo.

We visited poor Egyptians and 30 refugee Sudanese families, schools, nurseries, and churches. As we visited the families we took heavy bags of food and spiritual support. Most often traveling up four, five up to nine flights of uneven dark stairs.

We cried sooo much on the what we saw. Yet God revealed himself in soooo many ways this space can not tell it all. From our transportation to translators, from our Guest House to Garbage City, host, weather, health all exceeded all that we asked for on the wings of prayers of those who stood in the gap for us. Yes, we have sad, sordid stories that will break your heart, wet your eyes and weaken your knees.

Yet for each eye witness of Job like trouble, we testify our Redeemer lives. It is the light and hope of the world within us to live the Great Commission. To bring this Light to dark places.

Cairo, Egypt, is the largest city in Africa with 19 to 21 million officially and millions more unofficially. That would would include the million plus Sudanese who have escaped the brutal ten year civil war of the Islams leaders impose rule of the Sudanese Christian in the South Sudan.

The Egyptian government does not support the Sudanese Refugees. Societal they are scorned. The men can not work and women can best get servant jobs in middle class to wealth Egyptian homes. Their children are not allowed to go to school and they face a great shortage of housing.

Subsequently they build illegal building to live and go to school. Large families create additional concerns like eating and clothing. I'll stop here, because I can go on and on describing the abject poverty. For our smallest part we took large bags of food and prayed and prayed and prayed so more for each family.

Because we are relational people and it is a God thing, we will follow up with a yearly commitment of feeding those 30 families each month. Plus we will stir up the gifts of a talented blessed people absence from the Great Commission on foreign soil--the Black American. We must work while it is day, night comes when no man can work.

Special Focus

2009-10-23T18:22:00.000-07:00

"Here I am to Worship..." they prayerfully sang as I sat in the International House of Prayer (IHOP) yearning, seeking God's face and interceding for you and all my love ones.

Every Thursday prayer focus specifically on African American. This is the one work night I sacrifice to interceded for my people, my family, friends and love ones The urgent call to prayer. Of course I am in the Prayer Room many hours over the weekend.

The Word is clear when it comes to prayers of a righteous man unavail much. And we know that only certain things can only come by prayer and fasting. Plus the Word tells us that if God's people who are called by His name, will humble themselves, seek His face and turn from their sinful ways--He will heal the land. We need healing from heaven.

If you are reading this then know I'm praying for you. That's what intercessors do, stand in the gap petitioning mercy and grace for you.

They are singing, "I'm coming back to heart of worship...it all about you Jesus, it's all about you...I bring you more than a song... Gloryyy to God.

TEAM JAMAICA

2009-09-18T21:07:00.000-07:00

Yeh Mon'

One year ago God sent me to learn about Missions from an African Jamaican American in the person of Brother Bob Weston(far right) of Port Maria, St. Mary's Parish Jamaica West Indies. I went back to Jamaica. But this time a year later not alone ready and excited to live the Great Commission.

God blessed me then and exceeded all expectation now. In a Team of six representing two churches, one inner city(my church) and the other suburban(see team picture), we travel as a tight knit team to do mercy missions.

It was one divine appointment after another. God blessed us above and beyond that we could asked. We had opportunity to share the Gospel with youth in schools, preach and teach at churches and show Christ Love in Action(this is Bro. Bob's missionary organization) with Meals on Wheels and visited the sick and shut in. Every night but one was filled with ministry.

This was my best outreach mission trip. We planned and prayed well, and God did all the rest. It was an amazing time as we were blessed more so, by the very people we served.

They will know we are Christians by our love.

Summer Fun

2009-08-13T20:02:00.000-07:00

In the midst of sorrow this summer I've experienced a summer of fun with those who have blessed me with their joy and love. As I hosted guessed from around the world we celebrated life. Picture are some of those wonderful people like Brother Bob above. He is avid fisherman off the coast of Galina point Jamaica West Indies. Galina has the deepest waters in the Caribbean Seas. Here Brother Bob thought he try a line in my small pond. I think he will stay the great fisherman of men.

Then you see the Prince of Egypt Amir with guests from seven different countries. He was tons of fun as he visited the International House of Prayer here in Kansas City. God Blessed his stay mighty.

Yes, we are havng fun and now my summer is over. Thank you LORD for the experiences and the special people that you bring into my life.

In the Year of Obama...

2009-08-13T18:27:00.000-07:00

The is no god like Jehovah. In the year of Obama I've had mountain highs and valley lows. Since the late summer of 2008 I witness historical events, experience personal tragedies and blessing after blessings in these recessionary times like none other we know.

In my valley lows since last September I have experienced the deep lost of love ones. First my nephew last August/September followed by my motherly Aunt in October/November as we witness the triumph victory of Obama.

In January of this year my youngest brother went home to the LORD and last month we buried my younger sister. Four deaths of close family members has sent me spiraling down to my lowest levels of grief. It has overwhelm and paralysis me at times. All the deaths were unexpected and sudden. Plus I lost a good friend who I supported in the Philippines last month.

I cried out for my grief to stop in between deaths. Then more bad news. I lost my Administrator job with the Public School District due to budget cuts. My school district has lost children to private school and several administrators like myself were laid off. This is roughly $10,000 USD plus lost in income.

Like Job, though they slay me, yet will I follow Him. In the midst of my troubles and sorrows I have seen the light of hope in serving a good and loving God. I am doing my best to lean not to my own understanding but acknowledge the One who can turn my midnights into days.

In the many weeks and months I have last blog I continue to serve God. In less than a month I lead my first short term missionary outreach group to Jamaica for a week. Also in the past months I have continue to host those from around the world Egyptians, Brazilians and many others.

I have told my storms to be still.

In doing so I can not count the blessings I have received monetary, in-kind gifts and love. As the economy sank to its lowest levels in my lifetime I eat good everyday and my house note and other bills are paid on time every month. God is good all the time and everywhere.

Like Obama I have seen some really great times and now experience here and there low moments. It does not rain all the time. Praise God. To this end I will continue to hold on to God's unchanging hand. My family is well as can be expected and I do have a teaching job that pays well.

Glory to God, it's gonna be alright. I'm still standing. Amen.

Host with the Most

2009-06-02T20:25:00.001-07:00

Matthew 10:41 (NKJ)

⁴¹ He who receives a prophet in the name of a prophet shall receive a prophet’s reward. And he who receives a righteous man in the name of a righteous man shall receive a righteous man’s reward.

I am soooo blessed. Over the pass two months I have had the great and wonderful pleasure of hosting several of my host from around the World and others. In the first picture is a new good friend Raed from Egypt.

Raed visited from Cairo, Egypt where he staffs the House of Prayer. His stay at my humble home was too short, but awesome fellowship. Next picture is my Filipino Brother Nolan from Baguio City, Philippines. I lived in Nolan's house for almost a month in his mountain island city. He was here for Christian Education Conference at a local university. I can not wait until he comes back with the rest of his beautiful family.

Last picture is my best bud Sean Filidis. This powerful missionary lives and ministry in Amsterdam, Netherlands. Check out his blog--see side panel. Sean came here to share at my home church, soak and pray at International House of Prayer Mission Base. Because of these men of God, I received blessings here and later on in that great day.

Children of Garbage City

2009-04-01T07:42:00.000-07:00

Garbage City Children

2009-04-01T06:17:00.000-07:00

For about two hours plus we smother the children from Sisters of Mother Teresa Orphanage, Daycare with love. Or was it the other way around. The nine month to 18 months rambunctious babies moved like quick insects around us as we tried to feed them their afternoon snack of yogurt and just a teaspoon of sugar.

The orphanage is an oasis in the heart of Garage City. Garage City is as it sound, the large and last refuge site of trash, garage of the largest city in Africa--Cairo, Egypt. A multitude of people live and work there. These are those children. Amongst all the trash, they exist.

So we fed, played and prayed with them. See a few of the darling in the few pictures above.

Imagines of Egypt

2009-03-23T06:51:00.000-07:00

Imagines of Egypt

2009-03-23T06:47:00.000-07:00

BLESS EGYPT

2009-03-11T02:46:00.000-07:00

In the biblical lands of Egypt, I walked where Moses, Joseph, and parents of baby Jesus walked. I sailed down the River Nile, commonly called here the River of Life. I strolled the shores of the Red Sea looking for a good place to part it and walk. No telling when pharaohs soldiers will come after you.

I prayed and soaked in the House of Prayer located in the largest Evangelical here in Egypt. On Tuesday night I attended words of encouragement and bible study at another overflowing, growing Christian congregation. Both places were filled with sweet melodious Egyptian music. The Ancient of Days is here.

The people, the buildings and the skies some days were various shades of sand. The foods spiced from the East and the West was the best I ever tasted as evident from the six pounds I gained on my vegetarian diet. Thank God for fasting and praying. Otherwise I would need another wardrobe upon my return home. The city neither sleeps or slumber. We frequently fellowship two, three and yes four in the morning. The traffic will age you quickly. Visualize watching ants on the ground. This best describes the street scene and the ants have better traffic rules. Don't even think about trying to cross the street alone.

From the Pyramids of Giza, to the mummies in funeral state, Egypt fascinates the senses. What moved me the most? The children. On the outside of Cairo, on dirt roads past a ghetto of illegal buildings, no safer than tents where a GPS is useless we found a compound of children. They were refugees from the horrid genocide areas of the Sudan. The needs are too great to describe here. Please allow me to address this in greater detail later with the stories of Garbage City. For these reasons God appointed me to go to Egypt.

All the purposes and plans God gave me for going were accomplished--Hallelujah. Outreach missions have been identified to bring others there. The National Prayer Conference was a success in the desert for all of Egypt. God blessed us tremendously morning, noon and night. We prayed the bridegroom in and wait for His glorious return. And the saints, my friends were encouraged. Jesus promised those who receive a righteous man who is sent will receive a righteous reward.

Please enjoy the photos. More importantly "...Blessed be Egypt my people..." Is. 19:25

Responsibilities

2009-02-20T06:32:00.000-08:00

In January I traveled with a good friend and lots of family to Washington DC to witness history. This month I made the rare drive to Oklahoma City(six hours) to visit more family. In March I go to the National Prayer Conference in Cairo, Egypt.

At home I am coordinating Outreaches for Mexico and Jamaica this summer. Plus I am moving towards the divine purpose of the Great Commission for African Americans. Recently my Pastor advised me on how to present to Baptist Minister Union. They represent thousands of people like me who do not fully understand or comprehen God's purposes and plans for our lives to serve others outside of our comfort zones. This sounds and looks like a lot of stuff I'm doing. It is, but not enough when you think of the harvest of LORD and Savior Jesus Christ and the few laborours.

Going to Africa will be my first experience in the motherland, home of my ancestors. This also fulfills a lifelong dream of traveling around the World. Something in my spirit tells me I will be there many more times in my life. Only a God I served could have made this possible considering my humble beginnings. God is good.

In my devotion one day this week I read the following and shared it with others like yourself:

The privileges and responsibilities of membership

'...you are...fellow citizens...members of God's household... a holy temple...' Ephesians 2:19-21

If your children stood outside your house pleading to get in, what would you think? Wouldn't you say, 'Come in, you're my flesh and blood, I love you, you don't need to beg?' Well, we can come into God's presence at any time. We are '...no longer strangers...but fellow citizens...of the household of God...a holy temple...' (NKJV). What privileges: 1) as 'fellow citizens' we represent God's kingdom on the earth. We are His ambassadors (2 Corinthians 5:20). 'What does an ambassador do?' you ask. He stays in communication with his king, understands his will and makes sure it's carried out. He also knows he doesn't belong there permanently, so he lives, ready for recall at a moment's notice. Getting the idea? 2) because we belong to the 'household of God' we can come confidently before God at any time, with any need, and know that we'll be received with love. God is the father you always hoped for and you are the child He always wanted. If you have any doubts, look at the cross; that's how much God values you. But remember, every family member is supposed to contribute, be loyal, and make sure the family's good name is protected 3) we are 'a holy temple.' In the Old Testament God had a temple for His people, but now God has a people for His temple. The Bible says, 'Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honour God...'

(1 Corinthians 6:19-20 NIV).

I was there...

2009-01-29T20:33:00.000-08:00

New Year 2009

2009-01-04T14:17:00.000-08:00

"Blessed be Egypt my people... said the prophet Isaiah 19: 25 By divine appointment I celebrated Christmas, an International House of Prayer conference ONETHING and New Year with a group of Egyptians.

2008 CHRISTMAS

2008-12-19T05:38:00.000-08:00

JESUS is the reason for "every" season. Each of us have our "Seasons." In my seasons of life, 2008 I have seen many new beginnings. Interestingly I learned the number eight is biblically associated with "new beginning."

When the whole earth was covered with the flood, it was Noah(my dad's name) "the eighth person" (2 Peter 2:25) who stepped out of to a new earth to start a new order of things. Circumcision was to be performed on the eighth day (Genesis 17:12), because it was the foreshadowing of the true circumcision of the heart, that which was to be "made without hands," even "the putting off of the body of the sins of the flesh by the circumcision of Christ" (Colossians 2:11). This is connected with the new creation.

In reflection of 2008 I witnessed new creations within me. The new year began in fellowship with godly friends from Amsterdam and Brasil. We celebrated ONETHING. It is a year end conference sponsor by the International House of Prayer, 24/7 prayer. ONETHING brings young adults together to focus on the one desire we should seek as Christians. King David stated: Psalms 27: 4 - One thing I ask of the LORD this is what I seek: that I may dwell in the house of the LORD. Amen See www.IHOP.org

As I approach the end of year I will host guests again from Egypt. All are here for the 2009 ONETHING conference. God graciously allowed me to host this year guests from around the globe from Canada, England to Jordan to places here in the states like Miami, Portland, Oregon and Florida and many more. Whereby giving me new life long friends. At the same time my adopted mother when home to be with the LORD this year. Leaving me with a large hole in my heart. That was a low light.

Following the will of my Savior I solo venture to Latin America and the West Indies to prepare a future for missions and ministry . Each day was one divine appointment after another. Subsequently in 2009 I will return for ministry to Mexico City and St. Mary's Parish, Jamaica West Indies with my African American Church members. They now share a thirst and vision of foreign missions like never before. This is very exciting.

You see this will be our first church organized foreign missions outreach. Moreover my Pastor is supporting our efforts with funds to follow the Great Commission. Clearly this is one of the roles God is calling me into these end times. We must be about our heavenly father business. Living the Great Commission. Praise God!

My family for the first time gathered in Chicago this summer for food, fellowship and fun. We have Family Reunions every two years. I met a multitude of fantastic family members I never knew. In speaking of "never and Chicago" Never ever did I think about a Black Man in the White House--never. Barak Obama ROCKS!!

As we recognized the birth of our LORD and Savior Jesus Christ this Christmas season. Let us not forget Jesus is the reason for the season. Merry Christmas to you, your family, friends and your faith.

"Yes We Can!"

2008-11-05T07:41:00.000-08:00

On November 04, 2008 the citizens of United States of America elected Barak H. Obama as the 44th President. Obama white mother was from Kansas and his father was African. President Obama is our first African American President.

As a Christian Black Man here in America I never believed I would see the day we would do such a thing. I am four generations from slavery. My life experiences and that of my ancestors had lead me to believe that American was too racist to elect a Black person to the office of President. This election shattered the glass ceiling that my people have lived with all their lives. It was only a dream to believe up to now you can be anything here. Obama demonstrated "Yes We Can." Obama brings my people, all people closer to the dream of another great American in the person Martin Luther King Jr. He spoke of this dream in a great speech long ago. We are living in historical times, some believe the endtimes.

While I may not agree with all of Obama position on moral issues. I do believe in God's Word 1 Timothy 2: 1-4 (NIV) 1.I urge, then, for of all that requests, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for everyone--2. for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. 3 This is good, and pleases God our Savior, 4 who wants all men to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth . And the church said "AMEN"

So pray for Obama, pray for our United States, and pray that Christian will do the will of God no matter who leds , and God's purposes be done in all the Earth--Amen.

!YEH MON!

2008-10-06T09:38:00.000-07:00

"Daylight comin and I want to go home..." are part of the lyrics to a Jamaica (JAM) folk song about going home after working long days at a banana plantation. Jesus stated we must work while it is day. I am back from Jamaica where God told me to go for a short season. JAM is a tropical vacationing paradise with a great culture and third world economics.

My host was a former New Yorker cab driver turned Missionary Brother Bob Weston. Born in the U.S. of Jamaican Parents, Brother Bob had returned to his roots there in 1989 after Hurricane Gilbert. Since that time God has allowed Bro. Bob to build a missionary JAM based organization called "Christ Love in Action."

The name "Christ Love in Action" walked the walked. Daily we had ministry. Monday, Wednesday and Friday we visited the hospitals where we teach, preach and give our testimony and biblical tracts. Tuesday we rested. Wed. they cooked 75+ meals and distribute with Meals on Wheels, often on impassable roads. Thursday we visited the courts praying and preaching justice. Friday after the hospitals we go to the infirmary or hospices care. There the people go to die. We prayed and prayed some more with them after sharing the Good News of Jesus.

This trip blessed me because I was able to witness again how God can take little to make much for people, his purposes and plans. God allowed me to have visions of what He is calling me to do for the Great Commission. God is preparing me.

I can not tell it all. From the scared feelings of losing my job after taking off for weeks to go to hugging those who have been left to die is surreal. I feel emotional stretched and intellectually drained. How does God do it?

Room "Under the Cross"

2008-09-09T05:02:00.000-07:00

When God "placed" Adam in the Garden, He placed him eastward according to Genesis 2. God plants our steps, and He has planted my house in a strategically convenient location to serve and host visitors to the International House of Prayer (IHOP). Plus the soon to be built new KC Youth With A Mission(YWAM) Outreach Base.

Subsequently this summer in between mission trips I hosted guest as far away as Amin, Jordan and Cario, Egypt to United Kingdom and British Columbia, Canada. All have been divine appointments. Shown in the pictures from top to bottom are some of those newest brothers for me: Steve & Nick U. K., Victor - British Columbia - Canada, Reidar - Amin, Jordan - Sara (visitor and girlfriend of guest) Sandro - Egypt.

Hosting visitors from across the world and states has given me at least three things: 1. opportunities to reciprocate the kindness others have shown me in my travels, 2. make new life long friends, 3. allow me to encourage others to a deeper and richer relationship with Christ as they seek God's face at IHOP. Let all those who are thirsty--come and drink of the everlasting water.

If you ever been to my house or seen a picture, you know it is"under the Cross." That was divine design. If you are reading this blog, then know there is always room under the Cross for you.

The Family Circle

2008-08-14T06:29:00.000-07:00

There we were in a giant circle, holding hands, every shade of brown. The descendants of slaves Cornelius Coleman and Zach Pool had gathered to pray at the Family Reunion held every two years in various cities. They were my father's people, mostly all in the blue and white family T-shirts with the theme of "Building the Future..." The cool shirts outlined the great Chicago skyline that boast some of the tallest buildings in the world.

My accomplished cousins, a couple, both ministers from Newport News, VA and our family youngest minister Aaron, also called to the Nations from New Jersey prayed and shared with us as we stood in that circle of life last Sunday. The drifting smells of BBQ chicken, hot dogs and burgers filled our nostrils and made our eyes watered. We were loved, we were the family heart to heart, breast to breast, the very old and very young, gifted and talented and very family.

God of our breakthrough allowed us to gathered one more time for food, fun and fellowship. They say life is a gift, so we celebrated the present. Tomorrow we know is not promise to any of us. Pictures reflect the family picnic, banquet,

"La Gran Comision" Mexico

2008-08-03T18:37:00.000-07:00

Where do you start when you have been on a fantastic journey? For this three part blog entry it starts in the great country of Mexico. God has given me a season of missions. Despite my key position as an administrator with the public school district and other business obligations. God said for me to "GO", so I go.

Flying in to Mexico City you immediately become awe by the size and magnitude of this splendid country. Mexico City is the largest city in the world with 1/6 of Mexico's population, 24 million plus in also the highest city in North America. Like a poncho it spreads out over the mountains and valleys. I traveled here with a small team of three others from Kansas City Baptist Temple. Latino Pastor Marco Castro led us to Campamento Filadelfia - Puebla 2008 where he taught and preached the Great Commission or "La Gran Comision", for one week.

The people, the places provided to rich of an experience to adequately describe here. It was all of that and a bag of tortilla chips. God is calling Mexicans into the world for His purposes and plans. Mexicans thirsted for God's Word, and to do his will.

The living here is not that much different than other places I have been. People need Jesus, and Jesus needs people to share His gospel rightfully and truthfully. The language at times presented barriers, but the love of Christ in people overflowed daily.

I returned to the States with two Outreach plans for urban churches, and particularly for Black people. Needless to say, God is calling the Brown, the Black and the White and everyone and everything in between for the Great Commission.

"La Gran Comision" week 1

2008-08-03T17:46:00.000-07:00

In the last four years God has allowed me to briefly stay and learn in South America (Brazil), Europe (Amsterdam), Southeast Asia (Philippines), Canada and now south of our America borders in Latin America Mexico. God has given me a heart's desire to reach the Nations for His purposes and plans. Now, hear I am at Campamento Filadelfia, La Malintzi, Tlaxico. La Malintzi is the fifth highest mountain (an old volcano) in Mexico. Beautiful, beautiful beautiful.

I had considered myself in excellent physical condition prior to my days here. Yet every ten minutes I grasped for the thin mountain air with activities I pursued. Moreover it was freezing for summer. Nightly we smother ourselves in these furry like blankets, and woke with up to freezing air on our breaths.

God is in the camp! We worshipped, danced, praised and played day and night. The young people came from all over Mexico to learn more about the "La Gran Comision" (the Great Commission). I was given the opportunity to lead devotion, share my mission trip to the Philippines and the Father's desire to use all people for the Great Commission.

Plus we had a powerful intercessory prayer meeting. Mexicans on fire for Jesus and seeking God's will for their lives. It was an incredible week of Christian fellowship and fun. Our God is in Mexico calling Mexicans to the Nations for the "La Gran Comision." Our God is calling us all.

"La Gran Comision" week 2 Mexico

2008-08-03T16:50:00.000-07:00

After coming from under the cool, wet shadows of the volcano La Malintzi, I said good bye to my comrades returning to the states as we all returned to Mexico City. God had told me to stay another week for ministry and to seek places to bring urban youth for mission outreaches.

Plus what I would soon learned was multiple divine appointments. The first awesome encounter involved the versatile pastor missionary to Mexico from KC in the person of Dr. Blake Anderson. He along with some incredible nice people from the Roca De Vida Iglesia(Rock of Life Church) hosted me for another wonderful week.

The first Sunday there, the schedule missionary to speak at worship service never shown. So you guessed it, I was in the right place at the right time sharing what God can do when we follow His Word, Way and Will for our lives.

Pastor Blake impromptu decided to invite the church members to stay after church to listen to me more and best of all have pizzas and soda pop. From the feedback, Blake stated that at least one of the 40 plus members who stayed decided to get his passport for an upcoming church trip to El Salvador. I think it must have been good pizza, but whatever I give God the glory for the opportunity to share what He is doing in my life whenever and wherever I go.

The week concluded with me teaching in the Youth Camp at some Hacienda higher in the mountains of Mexico City. God bless the young people as they grew closer to one another and deeper in their commitment to live for Christ. We had a crazy good time laughing and loving one another. Check out some of the pictures from this week.

The Great Commission

2008-07-19T21:35:00.000-07:00

Jesus said "Go..." so I go. Mexico, Chicago, New York and Jamaica by this time next month. See the following web link on the place I am staying in Mexico: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z8ydmhrU6kk&NR=1 In Mexico I will teach for one week the Great Commission to groups of secondary students in a Youth Camp high in the mountains outside of Pueblo. Afterwards I seek opportunities to bring urban youth down for mission endeavors.

After Mexico, I will return to the states to celebrate my Family Reunion (father's side of the family) in Chicago. I will ride there with Victor B. from Abbottsford, BC, Canada. Victor, my roommate from Youth With A Mission and I will continue our travels together from Chicago to other large and small cities on East Coast for a tour. Kinda of a trip of a lifetime thing.

Then I will fly home from New York and leave for a month to a small port town in Jamaica to shadow an African-American missionary Bob Weston. After this mission season I will return home to work by the grace and mercy of God.

Musical Chairs

2008-07-05T19:21:00.000-07:00

As part time Prayer Room staff at the International House of Prayer (IHOP) I am required to spend a minimum of 12 hours of prayer in the Prayer Room. This summer that task is like playing musical chairs with all the seats occupied.

IHOP is hosting a multitude of young people for several conferences and signs and wonders camp. Finding a seat in the Mission Base Prayer Room is an all day job. Every seat and much of the floor space is full. Praise God this is a good problem to have for prayer rooms. Yet scouting a seat is like driving around in a full parking lot. This leaves you with fumes and frustration and not the attitude to start a couple hours of prayer.

So I leave and go to the Justice Prayer Room. The JPR is also three blocks from my home and less than a year old. There the musicians are not as skillful and the chairs are not as nice. Sitting there today remind me of the early days of IHOP when you really could find rows of seat 24/7. God is good all the time.

When was the last time you fought for a seat to pray?

In Paradise08

2008-05-27T11:49:00.000-07:00

We were in Paradise, or more like LaCynge, Kansas this past week. Paradise08 was a gathering of 3000 to 4000 college and high school students on May 25th in the center of the nation. Called by the Father and empowered by the Spirit, we assemble before King Jesus to worship Him in all His majesty from sunrise to sunset.

The multitude surrounded "the foundation of the heavenly throne," built in the center of a rural field. On the what was the hottest day of the season so far after the heavy rains.

Many Christian bands and worship teams use their instruments and voice to lead the multitude in pure praise to the very Son of God. In humility, the musicians were hidden so ALL focus was on Jesus. It was an amazingly unique and wonderful experience.

Nothing was sold or advertised. The only name called was Jesus. There was no agendas or promotion, no organization made money or could take claim. The only cause was giving God our glory.

I received a call to head usher at this event. About an hour south of Kansas City in middle of no where. I met youth leaders with like minds from Boston to Port Orchids, WA from Houston to Minnesota. Young, old, Asian, African, White we all assistanced with this godly event.

Just imagine, worship without show. Only pure praise and worship in spirit and truth. Praise God--I was there! Go to www.Paradise08 to learn more.

SPRING IS BACK PRAISE THE LORD

2008-04-10T12:04:00.000-07:00

Zephaniah 3: 17 (NIV) "The Lord your God is with you;

He is mighty to save.

He will take great delight in you, He will quiet you with his love,

He will rejoice over you with singing."

As we celebrate the beginnings of Spring and all that it brings,

I am reminded of how our Father God forgives us as far as

the East is from the West.

That's how much He loves us.

Praise God - Halleluia

SPRING BREAK

2008-03-28T10:09:00.000-07:00

Kansas City has four distinct seasons. Winter does not want to let go of its grip even though Spring is here. Yet I see the buds of multicolored flowers peeping through the ground, or on the tender tree limbs. See the pic over my lake.

The red robins has returned, singing as if they had no cares for today or tomorrow. The Spring rains are cold and too frequent, yet the Sun rays last longer for daylight saving time. Praise God we have our seasons, which one are you currently experiencing?

Last week I went to Seattle for Spring Break to venture back across country. Unfortunately no one told my car. Then, maybe they did tell it about the 34 hour and 38 minute field trip home. Subsequently I had to fly back for Easter without my car and the adventure.

Nonetheless, my Spring Break trip allowed me to fellowship with family and YWAM Crossroader Liz and Anne. See picture. It was good times in a great place.

Visitor Hit Counters

2008-02-07T09:44:00.000-08:00

Jesus said that my house shall be called a House of Prayer.

Long before I connected with Youth With A Mission (YWAM), I was part-time Prayer Room Staff at the International House of Prayer or common called IHOP. Kansas City has the mission base for IHOP 24/7 prayer and worship. I have return to IHOP Prayer Room staff. Check out the website: http://www.ihop.org/

Since the summer of 2007 IHOP has had significant growth. To boast a few, they soon will build the United Nations of Prayer and development of worldwide Media Center in connection with Global Prayer Network and GODTV. IHOP has solidified partnership with YWAM as the intercessory prayer arm. Currently they are doing the Luke 18 Project that organizing prayer ministries on every campus in America and worldwide and so much more.

For me the biggest revelation has been recognizing the African American leadership in the emerging prayer and worship movement in the USA. New IHOP department will focus on mobilizing this prophetic mandate. Praise God.

Most importantly for me is spending time prayering for YOU. This is the best part of my experience with IHOP. Please know that I am praying for you. It is what we do--gladly! AMEN

PREPARE YE THE WAY...

2008-01-23T07:59:00.001-08:00

Proverbs 3:5/6 tells us to "Trust in the Lord with ALL your heart and lean not to your own understand. In ALL your ways acknowledge Him, and He that is faithful 'promises' to direct your path." I believe this.

To that end I am going around the world, Africa, Brazil, China, Jamaica and Mexico and the other parts of the worlds to lift the name of Jesus. God has given me unction to engaged the America people of color into foreign missions to fulfill the Great Commission.

So we press towards the mark in Christ Jesus. Currently I am planning trips to the above countries to evangelize and create divine appointments for others. My objective is to take groups of urban pastors on an Outreach for them to encourage their congregations to get involve. I don't know how all of this is going to come together, but I do know that with God all things are possible.

I solicit your prayers as I "prepare ye the way..."

New Year with Friends

2008-01-04T08:29:00.000-08:00

Like King David, I also have great friends. Visiting me for the New Year was Sean Filidis from Amsterdam by way of Colorado Springs and his sister Noell and Jason from Brasil. We decided to start the New Year with a feast and then go shoot someone (paintball). Highly recommended for starting the New Year right.

More importantly we attended "The Call" to bring in the New Year. "The Call" was for worldwide prayer revival. It is headquartered here in Kansas City along with the International House of Prayer (IHOP). Praise God I live at the epic center of 24/7 intercessory world prayer and revival. You have to come witness for yourself. God is everywhere and good all the time.

Blessed New Year to you and your Family.

Winter in Kansas City

2008-01-04T07:57:00.000-08:00

We had a White Christmas and New Year. We did not dream for one. God's beauty is everywhere. From the jungle Mountain Province of the Philippines to my serene backyard you see here. How Great is our God?

Giving

2007-12-24T14:46:00.000-08:00

Needless to say, God answers prayers. As you can see from the pictures I am in a United Parcel Service (UPS) uniform. Why? Because I wanted to blessed those who I know serve in and out of season the work of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

God blessed me to work a second job to finance YWAM endeavors and blessed those I met during my Outreach in the Philippines. Every cent I made from this work went to missions. God is good. I raised over $1000.

In conjunction with my Church, we sent 36 pairs of basketball shoes to the Philippines. I sent funds from this second job for future Outreaches and other miscellaneous expenses. Jesus is the reason for the season.
Amen.

A Brasilian Christmas

2007-12-23T18:16:00.000-08:00

This Christmas Holiday break will have a South America flavor with the presence of my former YWAM roommate Jason G. Mayer from Curitiba , Brasil. Jason will attend Eugene Bible College in Eugene, Oregon in January 2008.

Jason is family to us. He will celebrate his first "White Christmas" with a Black family. How cool is that? More importantly Jason will attend the ONETHING conference sponsored on New Year's Eve by the International House of Prayer(IHOP). IHOP is a 24/7 place of prayer and worship in my neighborhood. The world base mission each year has an end of the year conference with 20,000 to 30,000 young adults worshipping the old year out and the new one in.

In between worshipping and meeting people from all the states, Jason will go ice skating, skiing and paint ball in the caves. Plus he plans on doing lots of holiday shopping. "Yes", we are having fun!!!

Bitter Sweet

2007-11-18T17:34:00.000-08:00

Sorry my updates has been slow upon my return from the Philippines and Canada. But my Home Coming up until this week has been very bittersweet.

First it has been really really sweet to see family, friends and a Wal-Mart, having drinking water from a faucet and hot showers and you get the idea. I am still adjusting and processing my incredible experience. I hope to down load my Outreach experience to a multimedia presentation coming soon.

The bitter part is rushing back to work. As you know I believed God for sending me to the Philippines and the whole missionary journey. Again I can not say enough about the signs and wonders that occurred on the trip.
Yet, upon arrival home I learned that I was facing foreclosure on my home, my employer of 20 years told me they did not have a job for me and they quit paying me back in earlier August 2007, so I have no source of income now and the last three months. So those three things hit me hard and without a safety net.

So I petition God and sought His will and way. Walking by faith is right, but sooo scary.

My first meeting with my employer the Kansas City School District where I held a really really nice Central Office position went to someone else when I did not show up in August. This is what they told me in my first meeting to return to work. And I do understand I did miss three months of prime time work at the uniquely created position they made for me last year.

So I was told to come back for a second meeting four days later. A day before that meeting I received a voice mail stating the meeting would be two days later than that. That was cool and I was prepare to handle whatever they had for me. More importantly I was anxious to receive my back pay they owe me. Why they stopped paying me has yet to be explained.

After that rescheduled call I received another voice mail call from the same person instructing me to bring "legal representation" to this meeting to return to work. Yes, I freaked out, "why in the world would they want me to bring a legal representative?" That question not only raised my blood pressure, but not wanting to wait for the worse I went out and got a seasonal temp job at UPS for $12 hourly. I start next week.

Also I went back to God my Father to see what gives? Confused and frustrated, many of my peers encouragement me to get legal counsel. I just was believing God will provide and go before me to take care of everything. In my Spirit I heard the words Jehovah Nissa--the Lord is our Banner, He goes before us. The battle is not ours, but the Lord...

So here I was at the meeting, with district rep and my union legal rep. First Praise Report. District Rep told me I would get paid next week. Again this was the first and largest Halleluiah. Secondly, I was told that they still do not have a position for me, but I am on the payroll. This means I stay home with pay and just quietly wait until something opens up for me at my Administrative level. Another shout out to God.

Thirdly, are you ready for this? Sit down. On my way out, I was told that not only do I get my back pay, stay home with pay until a job is found. But...but...I also received a 6% raise, and retroactive. "Hold my mule!!!" God is too good all the time. I just have to testify to you and again thank you for your support and love during my missionary journey. Obedience is better than sacrifice.

I'm recovering well--NOW, and I will have greater praise reports to share in the up coming days. Continue to check out this blog.

Glory to God for all He is doing...

There is "NO Place Like HOME!"

2007-11-09T15:48:00.000-08:00

Aw, hot showers, king size bed, no rice and a Walmart--Thank God, I'm home! On last Friday early early AM morning I returned to the States and Salem. That afternoon early PM, I left Salem for good and boogie to Seattle to hang with my people for one night and drove to Canada the next morning. All of this within 48 hours of landing on US soil. In Salem, I met with my trusted mentor David A., my favorite widow and neighborhood German lady--Christa G. We fellowship and discussed much about the Philippines and the great commission. Sadly I missed my roommates Jen-Sung and Hyun Woo. They were returning from a conference in Colorado. I really do miss them and would have loved to have seen them.

Nonetheless this motivated me more so to visit Victor another Canaanite roommate from the summer. So I made my first trip to Canada via car. The three hour misty rain day drive was no bad or difficult crossing the border. Victor is off the chain and all of that, and a box of white cheddar cheese -it. He loves the Lord, fun, servant's heart and giving. Victor blessed me with a wonderful Canada real man wear black light jacket with a capped hood. Really nice, I love it! Less I forget he is real cook too. Thanks for the pumpkin cookies bro. See the link to Victor Braun blog below for pictures.

So I burned out of Canada and flew home to Kansas City leaving my much needed repair vehicle in Seattle. Homecoming. Hallelujah. My cousin Keba and daughter were waiting in the airport upon my arrival. Kansas City, family, friends and home was a sight for sore eyes. My sister Gayle blessed me with transportation until I retrieve my car someday next year. Right now, because I am still processing everything, I can not say enough about coming home and five long long months away. WOW.

My International House of Prayer (IHOP) house sitters Craig/Drew had enhance the climate at my house with worship sets instruments and people stopping by for prayer and fellowship. I am soooo glad to sleep in my king size bed. The first night I realized for the past four days I had slept in three different countries plus the 21 hours and 45 minutes flight on the plane.

Did I mention "hot showers"', no rice for meals? Do not ever take what you have for granted. Where I go from here and more on my experiences will be in my next blog. Just know Praise God I am home sweet home.

More importantly if you are reading this I can not express my gratitude enough for you and your untold support, encouragement, prayers and supplications you made in my behalf. May God Bless you and keep you I pray.

kb

Reasons...

2007-10-26T00:34:00.000-07:00

If for no other reasons you come to the Philippines, you must experience a ride in a jeepney around up and down an unpaved mountain road. As we travel to the various Barangay (villages) of the Igorat mountain people I have made a list of the things I would and would "not" miss. Please allow me to share that list.

The things I would miss: The awesome beauty of the unspoiled mountains and the aqua winding river that runs below. Brown skinned people who stared with curious delight you have come this far this way. The kindness and open hearts of the people. The joy and hungry to hear and know God's word. Culture dancing and the worship singing in English. Fresh spring water and hot springs. Riding the jeepney.

Things I would not miss: Sleeping in churches on wooden benches with no backs or just the plain floor. The noise of chickens, cows and pigs and people who come in/out of church while you slept at night. Veggie meals with no rice. Rain. No roads at all and just dried river bed roads.

To this end it is way too early to say whether I would come back this way. It's like you've been there and done that once you have done it. At the same time, the needs and love of the people draw and call you back.

My days here are drawing to a close. Currently I am back in Bagiou with a few ministries here and there. Mostly we wait for the trip home next month. I will be here until the end of the month and then travel to Manila for the 23 hour flight back to the States.

Pictures here are from the highway trip to the mountains, the villages, and me teaching (not preaching) at an Assemby of God Church.

Not So Good--Sometimes

2007-10-15T19:38:00.000-07:00

With less than three weeks to go here in the Philippines Outreach I believe the stress of it all has taken its toll. Many of my colleagues are sick with everything from stomach flu to lice. Our bodies are weak from the altitude, weather, traveling and attitudes.

So far I have escaped the serious illness, except one--I'm homesick. I really miss the family, friends and foods. Although I met what I consider lifetime friends and experiences. I miss my bed, Walmart and and going to the gym.

Yet I know that I know that God is using me to make an impact into the lives of many here. I have taught more here than the last ten years as a Principal. Their is so much kingdom work here to do in the area of ministries and teaching. The needs are sooo great and people thirst for knowledge and help. It just breaks your heart you can not do more. Hopefully the stories I take home will give me the opportunities to continue to make a difference here. It's a God thang.

Natural High and Valley Low

2007-10-07T20:20:00.000-07:00

Natural High, in or above the clouds we traveled around and up into Bontoc, Mountain Providence capital. It's a small town that sits in a valley of rich green vegetation. At one point we rode pass the highest spot you go in the Philippines on the Highway. We viewed into the clouds in between the rains, sculpted gardens, rice terrances up and down the mountain sides. Just like you see on the Travel Channel.

Bontoc comprises of many mountain tribes villiages coming in for market, commerce or work. We have more rain than sunshine. When the sun comes thru we see beauty that will soon be replace with vacation homes. Currently the road here is not build all the way.

On my second night here I presented to a group of discipleship students. I have pictures that I can not up load right now, so please return or keeping checking the log. I just love the Philippine people. Their kindness, goodness and hospitality is no legend. It is genuine and something to envy.

On Valley low, currently I am little under the weather because of the menu of foods served to us here. Rice, breads, noodles, pancakes, bananas, chard all light to white foods and little to no protein. I wrote a memo to our leadership and things have improved for us. I'm cool, I just lost my voice, weight and have a bad sore throat. Others have much worse conditions. No I have not ate meat, esp. dog or come close to eating any. I am going to make it. Our God is able to sustain me. After all He did place me here for this season.

Anyways, thanks for the prayers, encouraging words and well wishes. Tomorrow we go into a much smaller primitive village for five days to camp out. "Yes, I am fun, yes, I am having fun..."

To God be the Glory,

doc

The City of ...

2007-10-01T23:19:00.000-07:00

I am in Baguio, Philippines, Mountain Providence, Luzon Island some where like that. The city is called many names: Summer Capital of the Philippines, City of Pines, City of Flowers and Lovers'. I like to give it one more name: The City of Rain.

It has rain buckets daily since my arrival last Thursday. This mile high mountain city is greener than a botanical garden with its' pine, banana and bamboo trees. It has narrow streets with steep inclines. You feel like you're going to roll or mud slide off the mountain everywhere you step from the front door.

Currently I am staying in one of my leader's villa. God called them to live here 17 years ago. It has to be a calling. My accommodation is spare, I'm cool.

So far we have had one big ministry engagement and many small opportunities. I spoke at a secondary school in front of 70 students. The Philippines adopted the American style education system.

I had one bad incident at the secondary school orphanage I spoke. Some how and way my YWAM Mission group of thirty left me and another stranded at the school. We had to take a cab to return to our temporary housing. They simply left us. Of course there were circumstances like the rain and stuff. But they left us. This I will not forget, nor will the group. I had no money, no way to call or a phone number to call or anyway to contact the group. I was--you know? If my co-missionary did not have a cell phone we would have been...let me say spending a night or two at the orphanage. Yes I'm having fun, sometimes.

So far the hardest part of trip is moving in and out of people lives. We are here for a short time and I have met some incredible people with fantastic stories. I call them friends. If this Outreach is missionary work, sign me up... Better yet, hold that statement until I return home and process this experience, and then we see what God's plan for me next.

Keep the comments and positive feedback coming. I really appreciate hearing from you. I do not have access to the internet often, but when I do I love to know I have peeps back home.

In HIS Love,

PICTURES OF VARIOUS MINISTRIES, TEACHING, BIBLE STUDIES, SOUP KITCHEN, SCHOOLS...

2007-09-30T05:23:00.000-07:00

Signs and Wonders shall....

2007-09-27T22:11:00.000-07:00

The last 24 hours at Valley Cathedral Children's Home in Naic (30 miles south of Manila) blew my mind. The Bible said signs and wonders shall follow them. Witnessing it takes your faith to plains above the clouds.

Time permitting allow me to share the high highlights. On Tuesday after speaking early morning at a high school. Details later. I traveled to a small community area behind a market. Typically of the areas of ministry I have been doing Bible Studies. No utilities in an old wooden shack, with no windows due to heat and humidity that makes you want to climb under a rock and wait for the rainy season.

After teaching the people to have a strong foundation based upon Matt. 7 24- 27. The story of the wise and foolish man building their houses on sand and the rock. I finished and open the floor up for prayer in this group of 12 to 15 adults. This man, about 35 to 40 years on crutches who looked like he escaped from ICU somewhere stated something I was not prepare or expecting.

He wanted to give his life to Christ. After emotionally picking my self off the floor. My first thoughts were to say "Sir, I'm sorry, I, we did not come to save anyone today. You will need to go to Church on Sunday and give your life to Christ then." This really shows you my mind set.

So you know I did what I'm suppose to do. I asked him those questions we hear after the invitation on Sunday morning Church, and he said "Yes." All of this was done thorough an interpreter. Again I had to pick my self off the floor because God shown up where I least expected--again! What's up w/ that?

So on to the next exciting event. We immediately went in my group of six to another Bible Study where I had previous been four days earlier and stopped due to the rains in this open market make shift basketball court/plaza area that floods don't drain off. By the way I traveled by motorcycle to most places here.

After the Bible Study a mother comes up to me to pray for her small boy. I did not recognized the mother and son and I asked another single mother in our group to pray for her.

Much much later, I found out her reasons for coming up crying was to offer Thanksgiving. You see, we prayed for this mother and child after cutting our program short a few days earlier. Apparently this child of about five or six has not eaten any solid food in three years due to swollen throat. (Many poor Filipos have this same problem due unfresh water and poor sanitary conditions) Two days after that prayer, the child vomited hard, and announce he was hungry. Praise God. I can't explain it all because it is one of the surreal moments

Moreover I was told of other healings such as a 12 year old child on a walker from a bad car accident walking several days after we prayed for and her family. This news and events were incredible testimony to the power of God outside the Bible. I wish you could be here to see, hear and touch what I am experiencing.

Yes we read "take up your bed and walk..." but to be a part of miracles and healing was more than I signed up for. Glory to God in the highest.

Gotta run. When I get a chance I will show pics. We made it to Baguio safely. God is faithful... Continue to pray with me for more souls for Christ.

doc

2007-09-18T23:33:00.001-07:00

The Tears Broke

2007-09-18T22:12:00.000-07:00

The tears from the inside broke hard to the outside when 40 to 50 elementary students sitting squared packed in under a large thatched hut dirt floor singing "Still."

Hide me now under your wings
Cover me w/n your mighty hands

When the oceans rise and thunder roar
I will soar with you above the storm
Father you are King over the flood
I will be still & know you are God

They sang this and "Jesus Loves Me," and "The Power of Love." I was an hour from the orphanage going thorough the mountains pass a horrendous dump on a muddy rocky road like an old creek bed pass all civilization of any kind. Set in this lush tropical village was a group of about 100 to 150 squatters barely hanging on to life living as primitive as an African village seen in National Geographic magazine.

It was nine of us taking rice and the Gospel. I was ready for the malnutrition and a smile, but nothing prepared me for joyous singing from these brown eyes, brown skin people.

I don't have enough time here in this Internet cafe to tell it all. I get to use one hour a week. Let me say this missionary outreach has exceeded all my world expectations. The people, the places have such incredible stories. God has blessed me to lead several bible studies in small groups, schools and churches. We go to the prisons this weekend. I am losing weight, but not faith. We will be based in at the Valley Cathedral Children's Home for another week and then on to Baguio for more ministries opportunities. Pray for us as we travel.

A Culture Lesson

2007-09-12T22:13:00.000-07:00

My first culture lesson here in the Philippines is don't stand under the coconut trees. Welcome to missionary life, cold showers, geckos running around your ceiling and walls at night and heat so so hott beads of water stream down your back, and sweat rains like using a wiper in a heavy storm. Yes, I'm having fun!

The orphanage sits near the Manila Bay w/ a view of volcano mountain islands in the background. Incredible sunsets and sunrise. The resort style hotel courtyard has many coconut, mango and papaya trees. You see more different types of flowers than you have at large funerals.

As the only single male in our group of 33 (11 children) I have single quarters w/ the Valley of Cathedral workers. Simple accommodations, a small room with small twin bed, no a/c, a borrowed TV stand and wood chair. Not bad because this the first time this summer I have a room by myself since leaving KC in early June.

About 50 to 60 students or orphans, not exactly sure what to call them all have Carmel brown to chocolate skin with black straight hair and Asian to Indian eyes. Think of a dark Mexican mixed with Chinese. They love to touch my skin and feel my quickly balding head and hair. They love to hear me laugh and want to talk about basketball players, Kobe or Labron J. or hip hop music and the movies starring Black folks. They think we are very entertaining, funny and creative. Me too. To tell you the true it is my observation that they are more like us Black folks than they are different.

Let me talk about one of them, name Philip De La Cruz who has cemented to me faster than the people I came with. He has big dark black/brown eyes, spikey black hair, good looks, with a toothy smile from one ear to the next. Philip is 13, speaks English well. By the way English is the second language here.

Philip's story begun ten years ago when his...I will finish this story later. I am in a Internet cafe and my time is up and my ride is here. Stay tune.

God is Everywhere

2007-09-07T03:43:00.000-07:00

Mabu'hay (Greetings)!

I'm here. Tropical hott and sticky. Manila is the 12th largest city in the world (10 million+), beautiful, very poor with hospitable people. Some of the things I have seen would make you cry. I'm living in an orphanage for three weeks and then North to visit the jails and do street evangelism.

Oh course I had drama in coming. My passport fell out my pocket on the plane and I was at the counter without a way to go. No fun. Our God is good and He is everywhere. I have to make this short, but know that I made it to the Philippines.

doc

...ever fiber of your faith...

2007-09-03T18:44:00.000-07:00

Make sure you are hearing from God before you ever make any decision to answer the call "Hear am I, send me." Because ever fiber of your faith will be tested.

I am a case in point. Days, hours before departing for this missionary journey to the Philippines to share the Gospel of Jesus Christ in the towns, villages, schools and prisons, I discovered very some troubling news.

Last Friday, I learned the hard way my employer has financially cut me off. In the next three months I go to work in these orphanages, and evangelize wherever the road leads I will not be paid. And it is too late for me to do anything about it just short of going home to work. I do have the entitlement days to cover my absences.

Is there any mystery as to what is behind all of this? I have been communicating with my employer and HR for weeks and nothing like this was ever revealed. Until now.

So what do I do? I have a mortgage, bills, and more bills. I can not afford not to get paid. What would you do?

Well, I decided it better to obey God than man. I am going to the Philippines come Heaven or high water. This is a tough decision, but God never promise us it would be easy, only that His yoke is light. Plus I know God is not short of His Word. His Word gives us great promises of an abundance life when we trust and follow.

To this end look for updates regarding this Philippines Outreach in the above blog entries. You can always leave an anonymous comment w/o signing up for anything, and add your name when finish. Pray for the harvest. The labors are few. The next time you will hear from me will be in the Philippines. I will update you of my status as often as I can. Pray for those we will encounter and of course those of us going. Also pray for my employer and my awesome house sitters. God is blessing me beyond that in which I could ask. He wants us to be faithful over a few things... I want to hear Him say "well done..."

doc

Milk & Honey Roommates

2007-08-26T20:17:00.000-07:00

Biblically Canaan was the land of milk and honey promised to Israelites of Old Testament times. For me this summer Canaan has been the name of my dorm room I shared with five/six extraordinary guys.

Charles from Madagascar, Hyun, Jen-Sung from South Korea, Victor from Canada and Wes, born in Hawaii, by way of California bay with a South Pacific demeanor has been my summer family, best friends, confidants, admonisher, leaning post, counselor, critical and greatest supporter. Without the love and encouragement of these guys my life here in Salem would have been…well…let me say tough. See the picture.

No one on this mission base can boast this summer that they lived, eat and slept in the room with five other cultures every night. That includes one good month with my brother in Christ, Jason from Brazil. One of us can not fall without the other. We have traveled, laughed, cried, fought, misunderstood, and just be blessed beyond that in which we could have asked.

Each one of us came far from very different places with a different culture and a different language melding into this salad bowl of Canaan. Here we represented each of the mission programs on campus. Jason was ropes, Victor, Wes and Charles are in Intro to Biblical Counseling (IBC) and Hyun and Jen-Sung English Language Culture (ELC).

While I enjoy the unity of my Crossroads family, it is a three cord bond I have with my roommates my brothers. The thought of leaving them for Outreach saddens me as much as when leaving Kansas City. These guys have been my earthly rock here in Salem.

Living with them I’ve learned they do not represent all their people, but did you know that Koreans like “soul” music? Maybe that’s way they named their capital city Seoul. Canadian end sentences with “A” and they smell funny. Wes is like most white men—enough said. Except he has this South Pacific culture thing going on with him at times, its different, but enjoyable to be around. Charles speaks fluent French, English, and Malagasy. In case you’re wondering like I did, Madagascar is a large island on the east side of Africa. They are brown skinned people like our cousins with straight dark hair like those who have straight hair.

While Salem town and this base has a population that looks like milk, if you took me and my roommates and mixed us up. We would look like honey. It has been that “sweet” this summer hanging out with these guys in Canaan land.

I have missed a lot, but...

2007-08-11T21:28:00.000-07:00

I miss you, friends, family, and good veggie food. Last weekend I had an awesome week visiting with my wonderful family who gathered in Seattle. I saw those who live there and others who came as far away as Washington DC and Dallas. See pictures. I saw my parents, baby sister and family, a few cousins and all but one of my paternal Aunts and Uncles. We ate delicious soul food, laugh, cried, told lies (maybe), hug and laugh so more. As the only BMOC (Black Man on Campus) on this mission base and allegedly one of seven Black men in all of Salem, Oregon it is a sight for sore eyes to see my people.

While I have been adopted and accepted into my current mission family I attend class and those who I share a room, it is nothing like seeing or hearing from people who love you more so. Admittedly I have personally struggle missing my summer away from Kansas City. I have missed so many anniversaries, birthdays, other family gathering, local community involvement, picnics, long phone calls, weddings and lake walks and doing nothing at all.

Yet I like to say as much as I missed those things. I gain in kingdom building. Only what we do for Christ will last. For this summer season I have accepted this current divine appointment. Some times kicking and screaming, but always at the end yielding to His way, His will and finally His word.

So as you read this those of you who I missed event(s) I would have acknowledged, know that I am currently on a mission for God. I love you and you are important to me. I pray that there will be other times we can sit. share, laugh and cry. If not, when we get to Heaven you can tell me about it.

I could imagine the Apostle Paul probably had the same problem. He wrote in Philippians 2: 12-13. Therefore, my beloved, as you have always obeyed, not as in my presence only but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling; 13 for it is God who works in you both to will and to do for His good pleasure. Please stay in touch with me.

Until They All Know Him,

doc

Walk by Faith...

2007-08-08T00:02:00.000-07:00

One of my most trusted friends stated last week “Go, home and get therapy for whatever this you’re going thru.” He was referring to my present call into the foreign missionary field. This friend further suggested that I could get fired from my job, suffer financial hardships, lose credibility and all that I had built over the years.” Shaken and stunned, I know in my heart of hearts what he says is true.

Yet I am reminded I walk by faith and not by sight. I told my earthly father and he asked me if I remember that JOB had good friends. How do I explain things of the Spirit to someone? Today, right now and since April 2007 I have harken to the will of God. I surrender all. I know that I know that I know I am in the will of Him that is able to keep me from falling. If God be for me, what and who can stand against me.

I have asked God repeatedly: “Why me, why now, why, why, why…?” God replies “Why not you, why not now, why don’t you trust me…?” So here I am. I will stay the course because I know that obedience is better than sacrifice. More importantly I have a blessed assurance, Jesus is mine and I am in His will, doing as He has commanded. For this I do not need therapy.

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Did you know that Blacks make up over 13 percent of the US population and account for less than one percent of foreign missionaries? Why is that? And did you know that based upon a review of the literature that out of an estimated 40,000 missionaries from America only 245 more or less is African-American. Maybe that would explain why I am the only BMOC (Black Man on Campus) here at the Salem Base YWAM.

Maybe not, but it illustrates the dire need for more representation from my community. More importantly is my call and purpose God has on my life. I wish I could articulate to you in a way you could understand those things of the Spirit that call me to this divine appointment.

When I think about the sacrifices of leaving Kansas City and all that I had and wish to do for the summer, I can only say it’s a “God thang.” Like a voice inside you I heard the King of Kings speak in way that I could not deny if I wanted too. My Savior spoke, I was listening at the time and here I am by divine appointment. I could not tell it all, but it has not been easy in so many ways. Yet, I can say unequivocally it has been the right thing for me and what Jesus is calling me to do in this season.

From my last entry you learned that I am going to the Philippines for Outreach. Current details have me leaving September 1 and returning November 1 for one week of debriefing here at the YWAM base. Then I click my heels and start the 30 hour journey home.

As I learn more about this Outreach I will share in future blog. In speaking of blog, please comment if it is helpful in keeping you informed of what’s crakin with me. I am not sure how often I will be able to communicate with anyone once I get to the Philippines, or if this is the best way or option. I welcome input.

Nonetheless know that I appreciate the well wishes and support. As I walk closer with the Lord I always remind Him of you. Be Blessed.

They will know we are Christians by our Love

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TRUST in the Lord with ALL your heart, and lean not to your understanding and I will direct your path states Proverbs 3: 5-6. So with my mustard seed faith God has directed me to go to the Philippines for my first missionary Outreach after graduation from Youth with a Mission (YWAM) mission base-Crossroads.

“Heck yea I’m scared!” But we know that God has not given us the spirit of fear, but of power and of Love and of a sound mind 2 Tim. 1:7. In this, I go into the entire world.

From what I understand I leave August 31 for Manila, Philippines. There we will spend two weeks working at the Valley of Cathedral Orphanage. This large orphanage services over 40 churches and has a K-12 staffed school.

From Manila, we go to Baguio for a month for further outreach into prison ministry and then to the mountainous region to various remote villages. Baguio is located on the Luzon Island in the northern Cordilera region. Check out the map and do a goggle search for more information.

I am one of 13 students in my Crossroads class. Out of our group I believe at least eight will make the trip with their families. We have one family of four girls and another family of six with five boys. So we will have a guarantee 20-30 people giving some love. They will know we are Christians by our love.

Like many in my group, I have already made the decision to stay over in the Philippines longer than the two months to complete this ministry course. One of my six current roommates will be in southern part of the Philippines during medical missionary outreach. The place is Calapan City. See map and do another google search for greater details. Currently my plan is to visit and serve for one week.

After outreach I will make the 30 hour drive home to start the new school year. Even if I don’t have a job, I will click my heels three times and go back to Kansas City to await my next assignment for God.

When I think about all of this and how it has come about, I am utterly amazed. How many foreign African-American missionaries do you know? If you are like me, try none. I recently corresponded this very question to my pastor and my father (also a pastor). Why don’t Blacks do foreign missions? It is Jesus’ commandment and a blessing to any Church. Oh well.

I hope this blog is helpful for you to learn more about my “what’s happening” and stuff. I really miss everyone back home. Adjusting to Salem has been rather challenging. So I welcome your feedback and most importantly your prayers.

I pray your strength in the Lord always.

With Hope and Grace,

Love Me…

Mission to the ...

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Shalom or Salem (Peace):

What in Heaven am I doing? Since April 2007 I have been asking myself this question, and I hear because I have called you!

“Go, therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.”

Teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” Jesus said in Matthew 28: 18-19.

So here I am in Salem, Oregon in Youth With A Mission (YWAM) Crossroads learning how to be a missionary. So far my training has been “How to hear from God, Intercession Prayer and Spiritual Warfare.”

YWAM has missionary bases around the world with 30,000 individuals going thru this Discipline Training Schools each year doing what I am obediently do. This beautifully wooded mission base is located in far southeast part of Salem the capital of Oregon, I will give you more about this town and scenic surrounding later.

After your 12 weeks of intense Bible training you are required to do an Outreach. This is where the rubber meets the road and you really “go ye therefore to all the world…” My last day of study is August 31. It was determine after much speculation on where we may go such at the China, Tibet, North Korea or the Sudan, that we go to the Philippines. First to Manila, then to Baguio City on the Luzon Island and then to mountainous villages somewhere scary--I think.

Please don’t ask me the who and what questions. All of this is still very new to me. Currently I am in deep supplication and prayer about going on this Outreach to the Philippines. It is no question I will go to practice what I am called to do. Timing is everything—sometimes.

Outreach is no less than eight weeks and should be done with the cohorts I have bonded with in those 12 weeks. Yet as you know I have much to determine such things as keeping a roof over my head with a job and stuff—nothing too big. Plus just a host of other considerations you can probably imagine.

Yet those considerations are not such a determining factor as much as it is a God thang. Only what you do for Christ last, and I am learning ever so slowly that where God takes you, His grace will keep you.

Until They ALL Know HIM:

doc k. e. butler