Mmabatho Moments

About our Sanyati Trip

2011-12-31T14:04:00.000+02:00

Read about our trip to the Baptist Hospital at Sanyati, Zimbabwe.

Mmabatho Moments ---- Jody Edition

2011-09-29T10:06:00.000+02:00

I’m really excited to tell you all about what has been happening the last six weeks or so. I’ve started going out to a new village called Lokaleng. God provided a new ministry partner for me as well. Her name is Motlasing, and she is a university student here in town.

After all the things that have happened this year to keep me from driving (wallet stolen and neck surgery), I finally was able to go out to this new village that has been on my mind for quite some time. The first week, I had been praying that God would lead us to just the right people, and that He would provide a person of peace for us in this place, a person who would allow us to meet in her home. Within an hour of walking around that village for the first time, we talked to several people, and some accepted Christ. The last woman we shared with is named Boitumelo. She said she was Catholic and that she prayed “The Lord is my Shepherd” every night. Then she asked, “Is that the prayer you’re talking about?” I told her that while that was good to pray, the prayer we were talking about was one to ask Jesus to come into your life to be your Savior. She prayed to receive Christ right then. We were going to leave and she said, “Why can’t you come here every week to have church? We can sing and…” Well, God had provided our person of peace! When I gave testimony of what God had done that Sunday, a thought came to me. We shouldn’t be surprised when God answers our prayers, but we should be amazed, because He is an amazing God!

Since that first week, we have gone back on Thursday mornings, and we are amazed every time. I think I have about 15 names on a list I’ve been keeping so that I can learn their names. This last week, after we were finished sharing the Bible story, there was a young girl who had been coming from the first, but we had never shared salvation with her. She said she wanted to pray, but was still unsure. Boitumelo started talking to her instead of us! This is so exciting for me. We had such a hard time in the other village getting the women to share with one another. It took a long time. For the ladies in this new place to talk to one another and tell each other the Bible stories and help them understand how to accept Jesus just makes me want to shout! Can you tell I’m excited?!

There is another thing I want to share with you also. Lorato, my ministry partner before, has started going out in the new town she lives in, and has started her own group there. This is such a blessing to me. I didn’t know she was even doing this until she visited recently and told me about it. The ministry there is also going so well. I believe there are some people from this group who have started attending the church where Lorato’s husband is pastor.

OK. One more thing. Dennis has been going out to a village named Rooigrond for quite some time to work with a young pastor out there. The same week I started at Lokaleng, I also started meeting with the pastor’s wife from this church. She has been trying to have a ladies’ group at the church for awhile, but was having some problems getting things going. Last Saturday, she met with them, and told them her story of what God had done in her life. The doors were opened, and the ladies began to share about problems they were having. They came to the conclusion that they had left the narrow way, and needed to go back to the place where they first came to Jesus. The meeting usually lasts one hour. This meeting lasted two and a half hours! The pastor’s wife said they went out of the church singing all the way. What a blessing to hear that God is at work in so many ways, and we get to watch!

Our boys have started their new school year a few weeks ago. Andy is 16, and in the 11th grade. Josiah will be 14 soon, and is in the 8th grade. Caleb is 11, and in the 5th grade. Homeschooling them has had its challenges, but they all seem to be settling in with their new schedules. Bethany is still in Grade 1 at the International School in our town. She loves it. She just celebrated her 7th birthday with 13 of her friends. Melody is almost 5! I can’t believe I’m writing that number. She is still our little song from the Lord, and if you’re on Facebook, you know that she keeps us laughing a lot!

FROM DENNIS – Let me add just a couple of things. We were able to baptize 17 from the village of Rooigrond where I have been working with Pastor Michael. I have been teaching on doctrine and one of those topics was baptism. Many realized that they had never been scripturally baptized. Of the 17, 2 were older ladies 60+, one in her 40’s and the rest were teens to young adults. God is good. Thanks for remembering us and thanks for your prayers – we have felt them.

July Happenings

2011-07-13T11:34:00.000+02:00

Caleb's 11th birthday

It is cold in South Africa. It is winter!!! I know many of you in the States would like to have some of our weather. I am sure that when you think of South Africa you don’t think of the cold winters. It is hard to believe that 2011 in over half way over. Numerous events and activities have happened in the first 6 months. January started out with Jody returning to the States with her mom for Jody’s grandma’s funeral. After returning home, I soon realized that my main ministry partner was busy with other things and all the plans we had were not materializing. Jody lost her ministry partner in September of last year and God was telling her to “Be still.” So, she was busy doing that.

Andy's 16th

Through the first couple of months, my main focus has been with Pastor Michael in a village, Rooigrond, 15 kilometers out of town. I have been out there most Wednesday evenings dealing with church doctrines and practices. I have been teaching and preaching on the last Sunday of every month on various subjects. Michael is a young pastor that got married late last year. He worked with a missionary that had to leave because of health issues. He was basically left with the church and building. It has been rewarding and refreshing to work with him and see him grow. The people of the church are very hungry for the Word. I have better crowds on Wednesday nights with people sitting in a cold, tin building than I did on Wednesday nights in the States.

A couple of weeks ago we were able to bless the church by providing clothing gathered from the church we attend when I am not preaching. For some, this was their Christmas – in June. The temperature was right, but not the month.

A week before our annual missionary meeting in April, Jody woke up with a stiff neck. Thinking that she just slept wrong, we thought it would work itself out and be gone in a day or two. Well, 3 months later she is still recovering. She ended up having disk replacement surgery (C-5/6 and C6/7). It was comforting to have the doctor that actually developed the disc’s and surgery perform the procedure.

The kids are doing really well. Andy is a couple of weeks from finishing the 10th grade, Josiah the 7th grade and Caleb has started 5th grade work early. Bethany is enjoying her schooling at the International School of South Africa. She is learning to play netball and is taking a cooking class on Wednesday afternoon. Netball is like basketball, but it isn’t. For a better understanding of how the game is played, “Google it.” Melody keeps us laughing with her antics and comments. If you are my friend on Facebook then you regularly “see” what she is doing. Jody says she looks like her and acts like me. I am not quite sure what she means by that!!! :)

It has been a year since the passing of Jody’s dad. It has taken a greater toll on us than we thought it would. We knew it would be difficult, but really didn’t how. My greatest difficulty is knowing that our kids will grow up without him. I miss our conversations about ministry activities, questions and answers, and the latest sports happenings. Jody was able to fly back to the States to be with her family during this time. She and her mom will be returning together with her mom staying 3 weeks – in the middle of winter. She will be cold!

Thanks for your continued thoughts and prayers. We are not able to continue what we do without your prayers. Pray for Jody as she returns to driving and seeing what God wants her to do. Pray for Dennis as he works out in Rooigrond and looks to start some new outreach groups in Extension 39. Thank the Lord for His continued protection, provision, and watch care over us.

Showing the JESUS Film

2010-10-29T20:56:00.000+02:00

One of the special joys of ministry is having the ability to show the JESUS Film. Through monthly donations, our South Africa Tswana Team was able to purchase all the equipment to show the film anywhere. We have a generator so electricity is no problem. We showed the film again in a village close to town that has a small work in progress over the last year.

As soon as we pulled into the area, we were swarmed with kid.

They love getting their pictures taken and, of course, they immediately want to see the picture.

Setting up everything takes about 20 minutes. The screen is about 8 feet. We have a 250 watt sound system. The film is translated into 8 different languages for our area.

"For God so loved the world...." We were done setting up and just waiting for it to get dark.

The gospel is simply "Jesus"

Of course, before we get started we are able to talk with those that come early.

This was the second night that we showed the film. The first night, the three boys in the back were the only ones that sat with me in the back of the vehicle. It was a gradual process of them feeling that they could get closer to me. They were waiting for me by the time we had everything set up.

The kids had a front row seat. Surprisingly, most of them sat through the whole video.

A Tswana Wedding

2010-09-26T16:15:00.000+02:00

A couple of weeks ago, Jody and I attended the wedding of Jody's ministry partner during our time in South Africa. She would go with Jody everywhere and translate for her. She is very well-known in this town and the Northwest Province.

I had the privelage to walk Lorato down

the aisle. She was widowed over 11 years ago.

At the church, during this 2 hour ceremony,

the bride and groom through the numerous

"items on the program." This was part of the vows.

Getting ready to be prayed for.

All the Pastors praying for this wonderful couple.

This is the wedding cake --

made by none other than Jody!!!

Moruti Hans, Lorato, Jody

Moruti means pastor

This is the tent for the reception -

over 200 people sitting and eating.

Here is the kitchen for cooking

all the people. A cow was given for

the reception meal..

With the reception lasting over 6 hours,

half way through, we ate and they went

and changed. Jody stayed for the

whole reception. I left when they

left to change.

Jody had an opportunity to share with

everyone the ministry opportunities

they had together.

September Update

2010-09-08T21:48:00.002+02:00

Greetings in the precious name of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ – the giver of all good gifts. I thought that three months was enough time between updates – it’s been a whirl wind. So, here we go.

For the last 5 years, South Africa has been preparing for the Soccer World Cup. Millions of dollars was invested in infrastructure and stadiums throughout the country. The people were incredibly excited about hosting this month long soccer tournament. We were able to capitalize on the event by co-hosting a volunteer team from the States. During the day we held soccer clinics. The balls that we used were called Evangi-balls which had red, yellow, green, black, and of course, white. Each day the plan of salvation was given from the balls. At the end of the week, the balls were given away as prizes. On various nights we either showed a World Cup game or the JESUS film. Several people prayed to receive Christ. Josiah and I were able to attend a World Cup game in Rustenburg. We saw Slovenia and New Zealand play to a 1-1 tie. It was very cold. Here some links to other pubished articles - here, here, here, here,

During the World Cup time, however, our attention was drawn back to the States as Jody’s dad was continuing to fight an infection. This interfered with his ability to get back on his chemo schedule. He would get better and then regress. Several times with looked at airline tickets to return home, but it did not seem anything was imminent. The situation changed drastically when in the early morning he fell on his way to the bathroom. Again the doctors were positive and there would not be any lasting damage from the fall. But as the days of June came to a close, we felt, along with Oakland Heights Baptist Church that it was time for Jody to return to the States. She arrived on July 1st, and was able to have one last conversation with her dad that day. OHBC provided the opportunity for me and the kids to return to the States. Many of you followed our saga through my Facebook status. We were able to find some tickets leaving on the following Tuesday and arrive on Wednesday afternoon. Long story short, we were unable to make that flight. Dad died early Wednesday morning, and we left Johannesburg that evening not arriving in Longview until 2:30 am, Friday morning. His service was 12 hours later, Friday afternoon, at 3:00 pm and burial was Saturday in Muskogee. It was a couple of days that I care not to live through again. However, I do have to say that I felt God’s grace like never before. In the 66 hours of travel with the kids, I didn’t have one complaint against them – not one single problem or incident. They were fantastic and I have nothing but highest praise for them – definitely and only the grace of God.

We returned to Mmabatho on August 6th just kind of shell-shocked. The month of July flew by with so many activities of trying to help Jody’s mom with life in general. We had a huge garage sale and were able to sell both of their vehicles – another touch of God’s grace. Having only been back from our Stateside for about three months, coming back again to Mmabatho was like starting over. I was encouraged, however, as I returned to my Bible studies to find my people still willing and wanting to attend. Before the World Cup started, I told them that we wouldn’t meet for a couple of weeks, as I was busy with the volunteer team. I gave them a notebook and a pen and asked them to start copying the Gospel of Mark. They did it, but did not understand that I wanted them to continue, even though they finished chapter 1. The first time we met again in August, I asked them to share what God had taught them individually. They shared for about 35 minutes. At the close, I told them that they don’t need me anymore –they have God’s Word and it is enough. God wants to speak to them individually and they don’t need a teacher! They got it – they understood.

Jody’s ministry partner, Lorato, is getting married. That is good news for her – being a widow for the last 11 years. Her burden of caring for herself and children will be lightened immensely. The bad news is that she will be moving away and so leaves Jody without a ministry partner until God makes a move. Since our return in March, God has been telling Jody to “Be still and know that I am God.” So, until God makes a move and let’s her know what to do, she is just gonna rest in the comfort of The Word.

We have started the new school year with Andy being a sophomore, Josiah beginning 7th grade, Caleb doing 4th grade work, and Bethany starting 1st grade in January 2011 at ISSA. We received our crate on the Wednesday after returning home. So, it was like Christmas in August as we enjoyed all the stuff that we crammed into a 147 sq. ft. crate. The girls got their swing set/playground – I couldn’t set it up fast enough. A special thanks to First Bossier for providing that for the girls – they love it!!!

A special thanks to all of you for remembering to pray for us. God is so good – even through difficult circumstances – when nothing makes sense and 2+2 doesn’t equal 4 anymore. God grace has sustained us and He has blessed so much. Your prayers have enabled us to return when deep down it was not our desire. You strengthened us when we didn’t have the strength to carry on. Oakland Heights Baptist Church did nothing but act like Jesus!!!! (make sure you understand that last statement) They were Jesus in the flesh – they were His hands and His feet. They loved on us and continue to take care of us!

Throughout this update, you see what you can pray about – as God leads, you pray and we will be thankful. Be Blessed.

Capitalizing on the World Cup

2010-06-25T18:14:00.001+02:00

Check out what we've been up to during the World Cup.
Click HERE if you can't see the YouTube Video.

Just Some Pictures

2010-05-16T18:25:00.003+02:00

These are just some pictures in no particular order or particular theme.

This was Melody's first meal at the big table. The day before she told us

that she was ready to sit at the big table and not sit in her baby seat.

You can see her high-chair in the back ground.

As part of a celebration for Andy's 15th birthday, Jody made a cake for him to

take to Friday Night Youth at the church. He said he wanted a cake with the

South African flag on it. It was in no ways related to his birthday. However,

in celebration of the 2010 World Cup and in support of the South African

soccer team, on Fridays, people have been wearing SA soccer

jersey's and colors. We have been supporting them.

Sleep-over at the Jones in Gaborone, Botswana.

The boys started out in line on their pillows toward the top of the picture.

Certainly thinking some deep thoughts!!

Mother's Day 2010

It is hard to believe that Andy turned 15 on the 11th of May.

He said he wanted a chocolate cake with green icing !?!?!

Teenagers!!

This is just Melody being herself. She is wearing a "dress-up" dress.

She will start in her clothes for the day and then it is no telling what

she will end up inby the end of the day. When it was warmer, she

would end the day in her swimming suit, regardless of getting in the water!

The boys playing basketball. We were able to bring back a portable

basketball set in our crate in 2007. The last several weeks they

have been playing with some neighborhood boys.

Melody wearing Caleb's Chargers hat.

She loves the camera!

Andy and Josiah were in a skit at church. Andy played Jesus

in the skit. We are praying that this becomes a reality in his life!!

Josiah was also a "character of disrepute" in the skit.

He loved being able to wear a hat and sunglassess in church!

Dennis preaching at the Easter Conference in Mafikeng the

Saturday night of Easter weekend.

Saying our 'good-byes' to the cousins in Oklahoma

before we came back to South Africa.

On the way to our annual meeting in Tshipese this year,

we spent the night in Warm Baths

Back in States, we found a playground for the girls to

play on one afternoon in South Texas.

Bethany receiving a Scripture and her "5-year" pin from

her "Aunt" Lisa. She has 5 years on the field.

April Update

2010-04-25T19:22:00.001+02:00

Hello Everyone – I figured it was about time to let everyone know the latest news – so here it goes.

First of all, we just have to rejoice in the watch-care that the Lord has provided for us. It has simply been incredible. Everyone remains healthy without any major incidents. All of our travels have been without any dire situations. We are incredibly thankful for all the safely travelled miles in the States (7000+) and now over 3000 kilometers while back in South Africa. We just have to praise the Lord. God has been incredibly gracious to us in those aspects.

We continue to receive good news from Jody’s dad’s situation. There should be a meeting in mid-May that should reveal how the last months of treatment have gone and what kind of treatment regimen should begin. We pray that whatever happens, he will be able to get the needed treatment in Longview and not have to travel to Little Rock every week and-a-half or so. Don’t stop praying for supernatural healing, though!

One week after arriving back in South Africa and traveling to our house on March 18th , we packed our bags for a week-long meeting in Tshipese, South Africa. While it was nice to see all of our friends, it wasn’t necessarily that nice to pack up again and travel some 850 kilometers in two days. But God is good and our travels were without incident. The weather was beautiful, and it was good to be back in that area of the country. It was our first meeting there since 2006.

After arriving back home, we pulled out the measuring stick and measured everyone. All the kids had grown at least one inch while in the States. We figured so since clothes that we bought at the beginning of our time in the States were not fitting as well when we returned. Andy is in the middle of his 9th grade year. I told him when we were getting on the plane for our return flight that this was the last time he would be returning to South Africa with us. We were both stunned at the comment. When we go back to the States, in 1177 days, part of our plans will be to put him in college somewhere. Wow!!!! Josiah will finish 6th grade by the end of July. He is doing his typically excellent work. Caleb wanted to be homeschooled, so when we returned, he did not go back to the International School of South Africa. They won’t be without a Janz for long, however, as Bethany will start 1st grade in January 2011. She and Melody continue to be best of friends. They play so well together. As Jody and I are busy teaching the boys in the morning, they are relegated to keeping themselves busy. They do a pretty good job playing together, playing a game or watching some TV – usually Dora, Wonder Pets or the BBC children’s channel called Cbeebees.(CBB’s).

You may or may not know that we, the IMB, have been going through a massive reorganization these last 8-10 months. With the reorganization have come a lot of changes. With those changes have come a lot of new forms and procedures. Getting back on the field when we did, we got back in the middle of when all these forms, goals, budgets, and meetings were due. So needless to say, I have been on the computer for what seems like forever. Fortunately, I have seen the light at the end of the tunnel, and now we can get back to the main things. Jody has returned to Moshawane a couple of times and is reconnecting with her ladies. It is her goal to finish work in that area by the end of the year and see what else God has for her – wherever that will be.

I was asked to preach at the Easter Conference here in Mafikeng the Saturday night before Easter Sunday. I had a great time re-establishing some relationships with pastors that I had not seen in some time. Easter is bigger than Christmas here in South Africa. Each year they have a 3-day conference on Easter weekend – it’s their biggest gathering of the year. I have been out to Extension 39 a couple of times to kind of see what happened, if anything , while we were away. I tried to make contact with Pastor Michael this morning by driving to his church. At 10:30 this morning, there was no one there, so I was unable to see him.

We have a volunteer team coming in June to do some work during the FIFA Soccer World Cup. South Africa is the host country and people are abuzz and have been for the last couple of years. It is like a month-long Super Bowl-type atmosphere. It is going to be crazy. Team USA plays England two hours away from us, in Rustenburg. Unfortunately, we don’t have tickets.

We would ask you to continue to pray for Jody’s dad as that is on our hearts every day. Pray for both of our ministries that God would simply lay before us where He wants us to be. Pray that we would see what He is doing and hear what He is saying. Pray for spiritual understanding and discernment in our lives. Thank Him for our health and well-being. Pray that our hearts would remain tender toward the Tswana people and that we understand their ways of life and how to bridge the Gospel to them.

We are thankful for your prayers, emails, and mailings.

2010-01-28T17:08:00.002+02:00

Happy New Year! I thought it was about time to post to the blog. When I started this blog, I never intended to go so long without a post. However, there is no New Year’s resolution to make more entries to the blog.

We were able to fly home to Texas the week before Thanksgiving. That was nice. I was able to catch 2 Cowboy’s victories in 5 days! One of the downers of this Stateside happening has been the ongoing cancer treatment saga with Jody’s dad. Between the treatment for multiple-myeloma and colo-rectal cancer, our schedule has been turned upside down. The good part is that there is treatment and it is ongoing. We have made several trips back and forth to Little Rock. We’ve put over 3000 miles on our vehicle since 21 December.

We have had the opportunity to share about the Lord’s workings in South Africa in many churches. Our first opportunity was at FBC-Tecumseh. It was good to reconnect with the many people who pray for us. They are one of the churches that we had contact with before we went to the field. We stayed in their newly remodeled mission house – what a blessing that was. We then traveled to FBC-Stonewall for their evening service. Though nothing “official” was planned, I was able to share for about 15 minutes in their evening service. It is always good to go back to Stonewall. I was also able to share at a church in Kilgore, TX. Of course, we had the morning service at Oakland Heights Baptist Church on Lottie Moon Sunday. The love we feel there is over whelming. Being able to stay in their mission house is an incredible blessing. We also had a wonderful opportunity to go to a Global Impact Conference at Travis Avenue Baptist Church in Ft. Worth. What a wonderful weekend to share our story with so many listening and interesting people. An honoring engagement we had was speaking at the Diamond Set meeting at First Bossier. Many of these people were involved in my life while I was in the Youth Group at First Bossier. A reoccurring comment that I received was “Wow, you did grow up!” I really have no idea what they could be talking about?!?!?!

Lottie Moon Christmas Offering Each year, the International Mission Board encourages people to contribute to the Lottie Moon Christmas Offering which supports Southern Baptist missionaries around the world. For us, the Lottie Moon funds provide our salary, health insurance, a place to live, a vehicle and petrol and many and various ministries. If it were not for the Lottie Moon offering, we would be responsible for personally raising thousands of dollars each year to be able to serve overseas.

Last year, the IMB set a goal to raise $171 million dollars to support more than 5,600 personnel serving internationally. Last year giving fell short by more than $30 million dollars and was $9 million less than the previous year. The shortfall in giving prompted IMB leadership to make some difficult cuts in budgets across the board including:

*Long term apprentice personnel – 300
*Journeymen – 100
*2+2 personnel – approximately 50; sent in partnership with SBC seminaries
*New partially self-funded Masters – 30
* suspending appointment of more than 200 new missionaries
* reducing the number of new positions worldwide from more than 1,200 jobs to 300
* budget cuts of up to 60% for strategy leaders on the field
* medical care no longer being covered 100 percent
* canceling of stateside debriefing conferences and also some regional meetings and prayer retreats on the field which are so meaningful for our missionaries.
* indefinite suspension of some critical short term missionary programs.

Despite not reaching the 2009 goal, the IMB still received the third largest Lottie Moon Offering in history. This year, the IMB has set a goal of $175 million in hopes to return to a stronger budget and ability to send more missionaries into the world. We humbly ask each of you to prayerfully consider giving sacrificially to the Lottie Moon Christmas Offering this year.

Right now the plan is for us to remain in the States until mid-March. I am looking forward to returning to South Africa and getting back to work. Thanks for your prayer - they are so meaningful to us.

Blessings!

October Update

2009-10-14T20:30:00.005+02:00

It is hard to believe that it has been almost 3 months since the last post. It has been my intention, believe me, to have had several posts by now, but for whatever reason, I have not completed any. I believe this is a form of spiritual warfare because in these updates, Jody and I try to give God all the glory. I know that the enemy is not happy as our focus continues to be on the Lord.

Our work continues with pockets of joy, successes, and disappointments. The work in 39 is progressing slowly. Million and I continue to go out and share with Goodwin. In one of my recent conversations with him, I asked Goodwin what good have our visits had? I had kind of been having the feelings of "what's the use - am I doing any good." He responded by saying that "I know that Jesus loves me!" His response almost brought tears to my eyes and I was greatly encouraged and knew that God was using our work out there.

Every Wednesday evening, our team members here in Mmabatho meet for prayer. During this time we are able to share with each other the activities and ministries of the previous week. One of our recent comments has been "We'll never know..." As one of our team member's term is coming to a close, we've been sharing about how her ministry has changed from what she thought she was going to do and what God has her doing right now. Just the little things that we do that we think don't matter - we have seen God do some mighty things!

Jody continues her work and is doing a great job in her ministry. I am so proud of her as a husband and ministry partner. She has such a heart for the Tswana people. It breaks her heart to be in contact with some many children and babies and know that their future is not too bright! If we could, we'd have a house full of Tswana children. Jody's work in Moshawane had a touch of sadness as a faithful lady of her Bible studies died of AIDS leaving 6 children. However, we continue to press on knowing the peace that only our Loving Saviour brings.

The children are all doing great. We have about 4 weeks of school left before we head home. Jody is teaching Bethany how to read through the program "Sing, Spell, Read and Write" The first song is an Alphabet Song helping her to learn the letters and sounds. Well, right in the middle of everything is Melody singing louder than anyone wanting the song to be replayed. It was an incredible sight when she was playing out in the garage (separated from and behind the house), Jody turned that song on and turned it up. She heard it, made a bee-line from the garage, down the driveway, into the house, through the kitchen door, and up on her chair with her "homework" book open singing away. I have it recorded on video. Andy started 9th grade in September - wow! where has the time gone? He got his braces off last week - so he is ready for our return to the States - he won't have to miss out on all the "sweets!" Josiah continues with his "A" work. He is motivated to get into his school room, work ahead and get his work done and be done for the day - by mid-morning. Caleb is tops in his class. The school has been so good for him from a social aspect. When he started 3 years ago, he kept to himself. His teacher was a little concerned at the beginning. Now, 3 years later, he tells us "...because I am popular!" We just laugh with him!!

I had the opportunity in September to go to Zambia for a training meeting. We drove! It was a long, long trip. I was able to do something that I am sure not many people are able to say they have done. We were able to eat 3 meals in 3 different countries in one day - actually in about 14 hours. We ate breakfast in Botswana, lunch in Namibia, and supper in Zambia. I had a great time and I am looking forward to the opportunity to return along with the family. Through our drive in northern Botswana, we saw several elephants along side the road - just living! We also saw some zebra and ostrich out in a field. It was neat to see that.

Well, thanks again for your care, concern and prayers. I was deeply touched a couple of days ago when I received an email from a prayer partner. He told me that he had not received the Prayer Calendar that we sent out for October and requested another copy. I had no idea that he was praying and thought enough of us to request another one. Know that your prayers are so important and we appreciate them. "We'll never know..." what your prayers have done for us until we get to heaven. Blessings.

Pilanesburg 2009

2009-08-22T14:45:00.007+02:00

This last week we had the opportunity to go to Pilanesburg National Park. This is a "Big 5" park. A Big 5 park is a game reserve that contains elephants, rhino, leopard, lion, and Cape buffalo. This is a benchmark for parks in Africa. We were on our way to Johannesburg for a doctor's appointment. We left the house a 4:00 am to get there when the gates opened at 6:30. We stopped at a gas station to fill up and eat a little breakfast that we had packed. We got into the park at 7:00. We had packed lunch and enjoyed it in a secure area inside the park. We drove around until about 1;00 pm and then made our way to J-burg. We always love going to Pilanesburg.

These are four of many giraffe that we saw throughout the park. They were on top of a mountain/hill and we first saw them on the first on the other side. We were close to them - about 30 yards. There are 2 or 3 others that you can't see on the other side.

We really never get tired of seeing these animals. It is fun just to stop the car and watch them. Seeing them run is an experience. They shouldn't be able to travel as fast as go.

Well, what can I say. It had dare all over it!!! In the background is a small lake where some hippo live. Unfortunately, you can't see them too clearly. They just look like big mounds of dirt. Most of the time they are just sunning on the bank. We did see one swimming and snorting around in the water.

This is a Crimson-breasted Boubou. I saw him returning to our car from a "hide." The red is brighter than this picture shows. It is very bright. We have about 10 other pictures, but could never get a good, clear, still picture.

This is a bird that I was watching while we were in the "hide". I have been looking in the bird book we have and I haven't been able to identify it. He would stand up and fan his feathers and then sit back down. He was doing this over and over.

After several trips to this park, we finally saw some lions. They were on the hunt. About a minute before we made contact with the lions, we saw a wart hog running past us. We just thought we saw a warthog. Actually, we were seeing "lunch" for these lions - more like a snack! We watched this situation for about 15 minutes - moving forward, backing up, turning around! At times they were within 20 feet of the car.

This was after they lost sight of lunch. This was on the left side of the road. The crossed over the road and then just "pluncked"down and I guess was just going to wait around.

Can you find the lion in the picture. There really is one in there. He is close - not 10 feet away!

Within 15 minutes of arriving at the park, we found 2 rhino getting breakfast. At times, they were no further than 8 feet from our vehicle. They were just eating and not concerned at all with us at all. There were two together. Andy had his window down as we were driving up to where they were and Bethany said, "I hope they don't poke Andy!"

Just a baby zebra - just cute!

Happy July 4th

2009-07-05T14:29:00.009+02:00

We had, including ourselves, 49 people at the house to celebrate Independence Day. The menu was Mexican food. Jody and I prepared beef chimichangas, chicken quesadillas, flour tortillas for soft tacos, mexican rice, pinto beans, pico de gallo and gaucamole. Everyone else brought the rest of the fixin's to complete meal. It was wonderul! It is always a great time when our other missionary friends are able to get together. It was not a typical 4th as many of you in the States were enjoying your 100 degree weather cooking out on the grill. It was cloudy, breezy, and about 55 degrees!

God has blessed us with an incredible missionary family that surrounds us. When we arrived on the field, I did not fully understand the term "missionary family". But during times like these, missing the American holidays that we do, it makes it a lot easier to endure and get through.

July Happenings

2009-07-03T10:29:00.001+02:00

A wonderful warm greetings to everyone even though it is freezing over here. I know that some of you would probably want some of our weather. Well, I can guarantee you that I would love some of that Texas weather right now. It is cold here and it is not going to get warm for another month.

We want to share with you some stories demonstrating God’s might hand working around us.

From Jody: The Lord has been so gracious in the ministry He has given to me. It feels like each time I get a little discouraged about being here, He lets me have a glimpse of what He’s up to. About two weeks ago, I was out in Ext.39. When we arrived, the only one there was the lady in whose house we meet. I told her it was OK, that I would just share with her. We were talking about the portion in the Sermon on the Mount where Jesus tells us to give in secret. Do not let your right hand know what your left hand is doing. She listened with great interest as I told her the story of Ananias and Sapphira. After I finished, she asked if she could ask a question. She has been going to a church where the pastor would call people up to the front to give a certain amount of money. All she had was a two-rand coin. (Worth about 25 cents) The pastor told them not to fill up his baskets with one, two, or five rands. He wanted people to give big amounts. She felt so ashamed that she only had two rands to give. Imagine my inexpressible joy as God brought to my mind the story of the widow and her two mites. Mma Salamane is a widow as well. It brings tears to my eyes just writing about this. She was so appreciative about me helping her understand this. She tells me that every time we come out there, they learn something. Only God can do this. He gives me strength. By the way, the pastor told them to give the “small” money to the beggars. I told her to do just that. “When you have done it unto the least of these, you have done it unto Me.”

From Dennis: God continues to show his faithfulness and answering prayers. I had been seeking to do some other things and occupy a little bit more of my time. I had been praying for God to show me where He was working. Several month ago, I had set up several preaching times with Ben Poo, pastor of United Baptist Church. There are several branches around Mmabatho and over the last several weeks I had been making my rounds. This last Sunday I went to a branch that I had never been to before. It was about an hour’s drive away. We arrived at 10:15 and started 10 minutes later with 3 people in the building. After some singing, praying, singing, testimonies, singing, offering, singing, special music, singing, I got into the pulpit at 12:45. Ben introduced me and shared briefly about my ministry in Mmabatho. I preached from 2 Timothy 2.2 and the 5 generations in that verse. I shared with them the importance telling others – someone told them and if each one reach one, well, then this village would be turned upside down. After church was over, several of the ladies approached Ben and asked when we were coming back to lead in teaching them how to witness and reach their village. What an incredible day that God set up weeks before hand to answer my prayers.

Someone emailed me and asked what Ext 39 is. Let me briefly explain. Extension 39 in a government subsidized subdivision. Back in 1994, with the fall of Apartheid and the new democratic government, the new gov’t promised the people that they would build 10 million homes for people that didn’t have proper housing. This is a result of that promise. In this area are about 2500, 450 sq ft houses with running water and electricity – they just got electricity a month ago after living there for 3 years. So in this area is about 10,000 people – a perfect place for a church. God put this area on mine and Jody’s hearts as we were leaving for the States and returning in 2007/08.

One more from Jody: Out in Moshawane, God continues to work there also. Several weeks I have had 13-14 women and about that many children. That next week, I was asking them to tell the story we had gone over the week before. The woman of the house, Maboka, usually tells the story back to me. She’s good at it, too! This time, however, she decided she wasn’t going to talk so that another one of the group could tell the story. Kelebogile and Maboka had been talking about the story the day before, so Maboka said that Kelebogile needed to tell it. Now, you may be asking what the big deal is. Well, for them to be willing to tell the story themselves is a major breakthrough. Usually, I have to ask them questions and coax the story out of them. Anyway, Kelebogile told the story and we were able to add on to that what we were studying that day. The other thing is that they were discussing the story WITHOUT Lorato and me being there! It just made my heart glad to hear it! Some of those who can read bring their Bibles and notebooks and take notes. God is just so awesome! To Him be the Glory!

The Lord is good – all the time – all the time – the Lord is good. Thanks for your continued prayers and support. Believe me, we feel your prayers and would not want to be here without them.

Vacation at Kaya Umdani

2009-05-02T10:13:00.011+02:00

All I know is that God has blessed beyond anything I deserve -

what an incredible wife I have and these 5 blessings -

what a joy - I am wealthier than Bill Gates!

BFF's - Jody and Lisa Jones

For our vacation, we went to Kaya Umdani, which is a lodge outside of Kruger National Park. This was an wonderful opportunity for us just to relax with some friends. Outside the spacious, back porch they had a swimming area, fire pit, and braai area. The boys loved having a fire each night.

We saw some beautiful birds as we travel through Kruger. This is a Southern Yellow-billed Hornbill.

This is a Lilac-breasted Roller.

These giraffe walked around the area in which we stayed. On the website,it showed giraffe drinking at the water hold behind where we stay. I figured with all the noise the boys were making swimming we wouldn't have that photo opportunity ourselves!

We went to Kruger National Park on Tuesday afternoon and saw these hippos enjoying the water and the sun. We have seen most the animals that we would like to except for the big cats. Unfortunately we will have to wait for another time.

Well, we had to eat. This was some chicken and baked potatoes. Eventually, I took those potatoes off and put them back into the fire pit and covered them with hot coals. Um, um!

This is a bush-baby monkey looking out its little nest/house. This was hanging in a tree outside one of the bedrooms on the second floor.

This was Josiah's and Landon's bedroom. This was the sixth bedroom above the porch that really wasn't advertised. You can see the porch below through the wood slats and the walls are just screened in. Those are fur blankets on the bed. It was cool!!! I was a little envious, but more happy for their experience!

This is just a big giraffe that saw as we were entering a animal reserve. He was on the outside. There were some other giraffe that on the other side of the fence. I think he was telling them that the grass was greener on this side.

Swimming is always fun with your friends. The water was kind of cool, but they swam anyway. We knew that with them swimming the animals that normally walk through the area would be leary about coming around.

April Update

2009-04-26T22:20:00.001+02:00

Hello Everyone – it is hard to believe how fast time has passed since the last update. Part of my dad’s philosophy was “No news in good news!” I would agree on the most part with that. We have had a lot of things happening and none of it seems to be bad or sad. Except for the occasional sniffle, we have remained incredibly healthy. As active the boys are in the back yard playing football and basketball and the girls on the trampoline, we have yet to have a serious injury. We praise the Lord for His watch-care over us.

FROM Jody - I am still going to Moshawane and Ext. 39 every week on Wednesdays. To be honest, I’m not sure where God is leading next. I see so many needs, and there are times I feel overwhelmed. The ladies in both places are doing well, and I want to continue to dig a bit deeper in the Word with them. Please pray for direction for me.
We had a great time at Mission meeting and on vacation. It was nice to get away for awhile. I’m sure we’ll be posting some pictures on the blog and Facebook soon. Melody sang at the Talent Show at Mission meeting. The crowd enjoyed it. She wanted to sing again the next day!
We’re still on break from school for one more week. Pray for the boys at home as they finish their year.
Thank you all for your prayers and support. We love you all very much.

FROM Dennis – I have been preaching regularly at Calvary Baptist Church where we are without a pastor. Calvary is where we attend as a family. The church is a block away and Jody and the kids can easily walk there when I am preaching in the village or at another church. Today, I was at United Baptist Church. Pastor Ben Poo (Poe) has been one of my best partners in ministry. He was involved in Campus Crusade for Christ, so he has a heart for evangelism. They have several branches, so I will be preaching in those churches in the next several weeks. I have been going almost every day with my friend Million out to Extension 39. It has been encouraging to see the spiritual growth in Goodwin, as he asked more questions about Scripture. Many times I just sit with him and talk about the things of the day. I use those topics to bridge to spiritual ideas and concepts. Million and I have gone next door and lead two other ladies to the Lord also. I was talking with one girl on Thursday before Easter and just asked her about Easter and Good Friday. She really didn’t have an answer. I asked her about Jesus and who He was and all she could give me was a general answer about someone that protects us and is around us. She didn’t have a whole lot of time, but I was able to give her a short, fast version of Creation to the Cross. For the last 2 weeks we have been on vacation and at a Mission meeting in Johannesburg. I am looking to start a group in Ext 39 this week when we get finished with holidays here in South Africa. From April 20 to May 1 – there are 5 public holidays. On the long weekends, I have noticed that people go away.
Since Jody didn’t share these stories, I will. One Wednesday, when Jody and Lorato were in Moshawane a man came in and listened to her story. Now, this was not just any man – this was a man whose wife attended Jody’s group. This was the man who threw kerosene on her and lit her on fire. She has since recovered. Needless to say, Jody was not too happy with this man’s presence. However, he sat through the story and continued to stay. Jody didn’t want to, but she started to talk to this man. He ended up giving his heart to Christ. He returned the next Wednesday to hear the story. God loves people!!! In Ext. 39, the lady of the house that Jody meets in has a son just graduating from high school. They do not have the finances for him to go to university. We have been praying for God to make a way – and He did. He is going to join the navy and they will pay for his education. He wants to become a doctor. This lady also gave up an opportunity to work because it would have meant for her to miss Jody’s group on Wednesday. With unemployment around 40%, she sacrificed a lot to not miss “church.”

VACATION - From April 15th to April 20th, we were in Johannesburg for our Annual Missionary Training Meeting. Missionaries from South Africa, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Angola, and Indian Oceans Islands gathered together. There were about 220 adults and 130 children and teens. It is always a good time to see our missionary family. On the morning of the 20th we traveled east about 400 kilometers to the southern part of Kruger National Park. We vacationed with our friends, the Jones, from Botswana. They joined us in language school in September 2004. At the time, our 3 boys and their 2 boys became fast friends. We have enjoyed our times together and look forward to the next time. We were able to stay at a house just 400 meters from Crocodile River which forms the border for Kruger. We had an incredible time. The “subdivision” we stayed in had warthog, giraffe, zebra, and many other animals just roaming around. We had kudu, impala, and warthog right around the house. We saw several giraffe just driving to and from the house.

PRAISES/PRAYER REQUEST – We praise the Lord for the doors that He continues to open and how He leads us. Please pray that in the next two weeks Million and Dennis can get a discipleship group started in Extension 39. Please pray for Jody and what she needs to teach the ladies in Moshawane and in 39. She has completed a study on the Beatitudes.

The Kenya Elephant

2009-02-26T11:08:00.003+02:00

In 1986, Peter Davies was on holiday in Kenya after graduating from Northwestern University.

On a hike through the bush, he came across a young bull elephant standing with one leg raised in the air. The elephant seemed distressed, so Peter approached it very carefully.

He got down on one knee and inspected the elephant's foot and found a large piece of wood deeply embedded in it. As carefully and as gently as he could, Peter worked the wood out with his hunting knife, after which the elephant gingerly put down its foot. The elephant turned to face the man, and with a rather curious look on its face, stared at him for several tense moments. Peter stood frozen, thinking of nothing else but being trampled. Eventually the elephant trumpeted loudly, turned, and walked away. Peter never forgot that elephant or the events of that day.

Over twenty years later, Peter was walking through the Chicago Zoo with his teenaged son. As they approached the elephant enclosure, one of the creatures turned and walked over so it was close to where Peter and his son Cameron were standing. The large bull elephant stared at Peter, lifted its front foot off the ground, and then put it down. The elephant did that several times and then trumpeted loudly, all the while staring at the man.

Remembering the encounter in 1986, Peter couldn't help wondering if this was the same elephant. Peter summoned up his courage, climbed over the railing, and made his way into the enclosure. He walked right up to the elephant and stared back in wonder. The elephant trumpeted again, wrapped its trunk around one of Peter legs, and slammed him against the railing, killing him instantly.

It probably wasn't the same elephant.

The Latest Happenings

2009-02-23T12:16:00.007+02:00

It's hard to believe that almost 2 months are gone in 2009! God continues to show His faithfulness and we are so thankful for His grace and mercy toward us.

Our work here continues to be rewarding, even when it seems nothing is going on. God has promised that His Word does not return void and we are seeing Him prove Himself once again.

With the beginning of 2009, it seemed like both Jody and I were starting over and not sure where to start. God has confirmed to Jody that both places where she was last year, she was to continue. She has had good attendance in both places of ministry - the village of Moshawane and Extension 39. God confirmed this to her through the passage in Matthew 5 where Jesus teaches about Kingdom Life -- "Now when he saw the crowds, he went up on a mountainside and sat down. His disciples came to him..." Jody has used the Beatitudes as her teaching platform. God has showed her some neat and deep truths and both of us have been surprised that they are 'getting' it. God is so good.

For myself, I have been really frustrated on my apparent 'lack of progress." Of all the work that I did last year in Extension 39, I did not see any fruit. In fact, I didn't see much of anything. My national friend, Kagiso, was not able to continue visiting that area, so I had to find another person to go with. The work that a volunteer group did in October hasn't seemed to be very profitable. I know that I cannot judge, but I would like to see something.

Since our arrival in South Africa in 2005, I have allowed a national pastor to take care of our yard - they call it a garden - not a vegetable garden - just a garden. His name is Million and he is worth that much. He has become a great friend and has been my most trusted and dependable partner in ministry. There have been times that I have gone to his house and picked him up to make a visit or just needed him. With him, he and I have been going almost daily to Ext. 39 and just have been witnessing. We were able to lead 33 year-old man to faith in Christ last week. I believe that God will open a door through him to enable us to start a group some kind of meeting group. While we have gone back to Goodwin, Milion has gone next door and has been having a "conversation" with several ladies. They have been most inquisitive and responsive. Million is a natural conversationalist - he doesn't meet a stranger. I am looking forward each afternoon to see what God is going to do. On a side note, after I lead Goodwin in a sinner's prayer, I asked him to say a prayer of thanksgiving for God saving him, Wow, what an honest, simple prayer of thankfulness from Goodwin - it brought tears to my eyes.

Josiah expressed his desire to be homeschooled this year, so in January we brought him home from ISSA - the International School of South Africa. He spent 3 years there and made some good friends. Caleb still attends there and we hear through him many of Josiah's friends are missing him. Jody is doing 5th grade with him until September when he will start 6th grade. We want to keep them on an American school schedule. Caleb is doing 3rd grade at ISSA this year and we will bring him home next year for homeschooling. Next year, Bethany will start Kindergarten at ISSA. Melody is just over 2 and is a total mess (angel). Bethany got some Dora the Explorer computer games for Christmas, and Melody spends more time playing them than she does. Melody can pretty much express herself to let us know what she wants. If she can't say anything, like "aluminum" she will say 'huh,huh,huh' -like you are steaming up your glasses to clean them!! It's so funny!

We are scheduling to be home from November 19, 2009, through January 30, 2010. If you would like for us to come and share at your church, SS class, missions group - please let us know of your interest.

Thanks for your continued prayers as they totally enable us to keep on doing what we are doing. God has been so good and He has blessed so much. We have been kept safe in all of our travels and our health has been unbelieveable. Except for seasonal allergies and colds, we have not experienced any major medical problems. We praise the Lord for His continued grace and mercy.

Last Post of 2008

2008-12-30T21:49:00.002+02:00

It is hard to believe that we are 1 day away from the New Year. It has been so evident this year that the Lord’s mercies are new every morning. Our plans continue to change but we can rest assured that He who gives us each and every day does not change. Comfort secures our lives because of the sure foundation that we have built our lives upon. God’s love for us is ever-constant and never-changing. Even though circumstances may challenge our happiness, it cannot change our joy.

Zimbabwe Trip – Back in the middle of November, the boys and Dennis had the opportunity to go to Binga, Zimbabwe, for a food relief project. What a wonderful time that was – outside of the fact that people are starving, there is no food or fuel to buy, inflation is over 6 million percent (no, not a misprint!!), a cholera outbreak has taken the lives of over 1000 people into eternity and the country is months away from a total collapse.

It took us about an hour and a half to get past passport control to get into Zimbabwe. We had to fill out a form that they didn’t have. So, one of the guards told us what to write on a piece of paper and carbon paper – name, address, vehicle type, etc. We then took it back to the counter and they stamped it, gave us a copy and kept a copy. By the time we were finished, we had been to 4 different counters. We drove to the actual gate and parked. We needed Travel Insurance – filled out some more forms – let them see the forms we just had stamped and we were in. But I can tell you this, having all the correct forms and stamps helped as we travelled though the various police road-blocks they have throughout the country. We, 16 people traveling in 4 vehicles, had no harassment at all at any of the road blocks. This is definite prayer-cover from the many of you that were praying for our trip.

Our actual project was to distribute 500, 60 lb boxes of food and soap. The boxes were supplied through BGR – Baptist Global Relief. You can go to their website and see what the boxes contained and even donate to purchase a box or two. We left the house and traveled to Francistown, Botswana, - about 8 hours – on Saturday. We got up early Sunday morning, crossed into Zimbabwe, and travelled to Binga – another 8 hours. We arrived late afternoon and set up ‘camp.’ We met up with some other missy’s in Binga. Early Monday morning we loaded our trucks and went to our distribution point. Everything went as smooth as anything that I have been a part of here in Africa. By late Tuesday morning, we were finished. We were scheduled to finish on Wednesday. The boys did an incredible job. They worked hard and I did not hear one complaint from them. I was so proud of them!

Thanksgiving and Grandma’s 90^th Birthday – About 40 people gathered at the house to enjoy Thanksgiving the Saturday after Thanksgiving – got that?!? But during all this, Jody had the opportunity to go back to the States to celebrate her grandma’s 90^th birthday. God incredibly blessed us with the opportunity for her to fly back. She had an incredible time with her sister, family, aunts, uncles, and cousins. We were able to coordinate her return trip to fly with her parents who had longtime plans to come and see us.

Early Christmas – Jody’s parents spent the first two weeks of December here. The kids really enjoyed having them here – I did to! We were able to go to a resort-type area with water-slides and swimming pools. We had a fantastic time.

Baptism at Moshawane – While Jody’s parents were here, we had the opportunity to baptize 4 precious ladies at the village where Jody has been ministering for the past 3 years. As the picture shows, we took our luggage trailer, lined it with a tarp, bucketed 100 gallons of water into it and had a baptism out in the village. What a truly incredible moment. Both Jody and I are interested to see what will happen in the next couple months as a result of this baptism.

Christmas – One of the blessings of Jody being able to go home was she was able to bring back American stuff for Christmas. The boys got a Wii and they were very excited. Bethany got a bicycle and walked right by it on her way to the tree. We had to point it out to her! Melody loved opening all of her ‘pesents.’ For lunch, the other missionaries that live here in Mmabatho came over for a BBQ. With 90 degree weather, Christmas is not the time to cook a turkey in the oven – we do that at 4^th of July when it is 60 degrees in the house!

Lottie Moon Christmas Offering – the first week of December was the Week of Prayer for International Missions. Many thanks to you that prayed, continue to pray, and have given to the Lottie Moon Christmas Offering. As you know, this offering comprises 50% of the budget for the International Mission Board. Through this offering, you are supporting over 5000 missionaries around the world. Not only are you supporting them, but as you give, you are investing in eternity. This is not a bad investment and you don’t have to check to see if the Dow is up or down.

There are not enough adjectives that I could use to describe how thankful that I am of your prayers and support. Jody and I both know and realize that without our prayer partners – we could not and would not want to do this. Thanks to those that pray every day, couple days a week, once a week or whenever you think about us. Your prayers are vital and they are an incredible encouragement to us.

Blessings to you and have a wonderful God-centered New Years!!

Reflections from a Rhino

2008-11-01T20:37:00.004+02:00

. . On Friday, we took the boys out of school, drove 2 hours to Rustenburg, ate at McDonalds and then we went to see High School Musical 3. It was just one of those 'just-because-events." There was no special reason. On the way out of town, we passed by the Mafikeng Game Reserve. Sometimes we see some animals, but most of the time we don't. We have seen giraffe several times, but that is about it other than some springbok or other deer-like animal. This day was different, however, As we were driving, we saw a rhino. Never had we seen a rhino in that area and he/she was really close to the fence which is right beside the road. We saw the rhino, but just kept on going. I soon asked Jody "If this happened 4 years ago, what would we have done?" She immediately replied, "You would have pulled over and stopped." We used to do that with whatever animals we would see.

. . Well, we continued on our journey - shopping, eating, and watching a movie. As we traveled back home, my mind came back to the rhino incident. I was thinking about not stopping to look at the rhino. I thought - have I become used to the things around me? Have I become complacent with the things God wants to do? What He wants to do through me? I remember a part of a Keith Green concert where he speaks about having 'baby-skin' on his heart. He wanted to have a tender heart to things of God. At that moment, that became the prayer of my heart. "God, I want 'baby-skin' on my heart so that I can instantly hear your voice - and not just hear - but to hear and obey."

. . You know what, probably next time, we'll stop and look at the rhinos.

Prayer Support

2008-10-29T11:31:00.005+02:00

"Nothing is more important to God than prayer in dealing with mankind. But it is likewise all-important to man to pray. Failure to pray is failure along the whole line of life. It is failure of duty, service, and spiritual progress. God must help man by prayer. He who does not pray, therefore, robs himself of God's help and places God where he cannot help man. Man must pray to God if love for God is to exist. Faith and hope, and patience and the strong, beautiful, vital forces of piety are withered and dead in a prayerless life. The life of the individual believer, his personal salvation, and personal Christian graces have their being, bloom and fruitage in prayer. " (Bounds, E. M., The Complete Works of E.M Bounds on Prayer. Baker Book House: Grand Rapids, Michigan, 1993, pg. 369.)

If we have had any eternal success here in South Africa, I believe, it is because of the thousands of prayers that have been prayed for us these last four and a half years. I know that we have made it through every situation because of your intercession on our behalf. We have witnessed some incredible situations that we cannot explain any other way than that of God answering our prayers. Did He always answer according to our thoughts and ways - of course not. But God has remained faithful to His Word, which we have tried to allow to guide our paths. The photos below represent on part of our prayer journey to South Africa. Thanks for your remembrance of us in your prayers.

October 2008 - Mmabatho, South Africa

June 2007 - Longview, TX

Christmas 2006 - Mmabatho, South Africa

November 2005 - Mmabatho, South Africa

November 2004 - Longview, Texas

Happy 2nd Birthday, Melody

2008-10-26T15:51:00.004+02:00

It is hard to believe that she is 2 years old, already!

Everybody wants to be a part of opening the presents.

Getting ready for some cake.

Just got my hair done and mom has to take some pictures

October Update

2008-10-26T14:06:00.006+02:00

This is our new prayer card. If your church/SS class would like some,
let me know and I can email them to your closest Wal-Mart.

What a busy time it has been these last weeks. For the past 2 weeks, we have hosted 14 people from the United States. They were part of a group sent out by World-Wide Church Planters. Dr. Steve Wilkes from Mid-America Baptist Theological Seminary in Memphis, TN, founder and president and one of my professors when I attended, lead the group. From October 5 - 11th, Lyle Seltman came and taught Church Planting concepts to about 14 participants. What a joy it was to spend a week with man full of so much knowledge and experience. As he taught the seminar, it easy to understand why he so well liked. He put everyone at ease with his likable personality. He would be considered an expert by his peers. He is now working as a National Church Planter for NAMB. Being a grandfather himself, he adjusted easily into our household, getting down on the floor with both Melody and Bethany.

As I took Lyle back to the airport on Saturday, I spent the night in Johannesburg and picked up a team of 13 on Sunday evening. Our ride home was not without incident as the other vehicle transporting half the team had some mechanical problems. It only delayed us only 3 hours - but 3 hours at a gas station in the middle of Africa in the middle of the night could have been a little unnerving - but the team coped, shared the Gospel with whoever was at the gas station and made the best of it. For the next week, as much as we could, with the participants of the Church Planting seminar in the lead, they were out witnessing. With numbers exceeding 350 professions of faith, we had a good week. The best part of the week is that most that made decisions were immediately introduced to pastors/leaders that would be planting a church in that area. I am looking forward to see what God is going to do with all the work from this last week. They all some pretty incredible stories of people coming to Christ. There was a corner in one of the villages that became known as the "Holy Corner" as several people - in the teens/twenties - came to Christ in a period of an hour or so. This happened, I believe 2 days in a row.

I now have a big job on following on up those that live in Extension 39 - this is our area that both Jody and I feel called to. Jody has started a T4T group in that area - discipling the believers and training them to eventually start and lead groups themselves. I have talked,prayed for, and witnessed to many people out there, only to find out that many don't live there or are attending church somewhere else. Kagiso and I have have spent the last 2 1/2 months out there before this seminar prayer walking and witnessing. I believe this area was open to the Gospel because of the prayers before hand.

Jody continues her work out in Moshawane and Extension 39. She continues to have her successes and failures coupled with frustrations and joys. Throughout the last couple of weeks, several have professed Jesus has their Lord and Savior. Pray for her as she tries to determine the best direction to take in Moshawane.

PRAYER REQUESTS:
--JODY - that she have the necessary wisdom, discernment, and understanding for her ministry.
--DENNIS - that he will make progress in follow-up in Extension 39 and that some T4T groups will be started as a result.
THE BOYS - They have about 5 weeks of school left for the year.
BETHANY AND MELODY - Bethany turned 4 last month - Pray for her salvation. Melody turned 2 yesterday - Pray for her safety as she is not afraid to climb anywhere and do most anything. She will be a bold witness for the Lord.

September Update

2008-09-14T19:10:00.002+02:00

Hello Everyone. What a privilege it is to share with you the things that God continues to do in us and through us.

GODS WATCH CARE

God continues to show His faithfulness to us. We had to go to Johannesburg last week to get the kids passports renewed. We were barely away from Mmabatho for 24 hours. But in those 24 hours, we experienced our first break in. It certainly wasn’t as bad as others have experienced. After all has been said and done, everything that was taken and thought to be taken was returned and found. Also, those that broke in were neighborhood children that have been in our yard playing with the boys. They got bored waiting for the boys to come home, saw that a window was left open – one thing lead to another and they got in and took some items. In fact, one item was taken on the previous Sunday out of Andy’s room. But through this, I was able to talk to the boys about ‘stuff.’ The stuff we have is not ours, but it is the Lords. He has given it to us to take care – we need to do our best – but it is not ours. There were also some things that we thought were taken, but were actually misplaced. We thought that Caleb’s new wallet was taken, but Bethany had taken it and had hidden it in her closet. We found it changing out winter clothes for summer clothes. Caleb’s MP3 player was missing and we found in the car under the seat. I also told them not to jump to conclusions – even though it looked like those item were stolen.

This event just gave us a little ‘wake-up’ call about being careful and diligent about safety and security. So, it certainly could have been worse and it turns out to be a good lesson learned.

THE WORK

Work continues out in our areas of focus. Dennis and Kagiso have been regularly going out to Extension 39 prayer walking and witnessing. They are looking for a place to start a group for Bible study. They have had several good conversations with willing people, but then they find out that they do not live there, but live somewhere else. Dennis will be showing the JESUS Film out there in the next week or so. He hopes to be able to start a group from those that make decisions and those that are willing.

Jody has continued her work in Moshawane and Ex. 39. She will start a new Bible study group out in 39 on Wednesday. She is excited about that as she and Lorato have been visiting out there for the last several weeks. Jody mentioned last time a little boy name Mosime. We would ask that you continue to pray for him as he is not getting better. We have found out that those that care for him have been taking him to the “village doctor.” As you can imagine, this is heart breaking as they are exposing him everything under the sun except the power of Christ.

THE CHILDREN

The kids are all doing well. We came through winter without anyone getting sick, flu or cough. Our winter was rather mild. Even though would get down to freezing, it would seem to warm up to the mid-60’s. It was still cold in the house, but not as bad as previous years. Andy started 8th grade a couple of weeks ago and is doing very well. Josiah is finishing 5th grade and has decided he wants to be homeschooled. In January, Jody will work with him in math and English to catch him up and make sure he is where he needs to be. Caleb still is doing fantastic work in second grade. He is doing swimming and cricket for his after school activities. Bethany turns 4 on the 24th of this month. She is getting so big so fast. Melody is a nugget! Whatever your mind conjures up with the description – she is! She is very loveable, but on the other had she has some Roberson-Cragg rascal in here. (that is from the other side of the family.)

STATESIDE

Jody was looking at the calendar a couple of weeks ago and we realized that we had made a serious mistake. We had planned to be over here another 3 ½ years and come back after Andy finished his 12th grade year. We would come stateside, put him in college, and stay through his first semester. Well, under that plan, we realized that he would only finish his 11th grade year and then come home. So, we will now take a quick 2 month stateside starting November 18, 2009. As it stands, we’ll be back home in about 14 months. It sounds weird to say that knowing that we were just home 8 months ago.

PRAYER

Continue to pray that God would show His power in the life of Mosime.

Pray for a Church Planting Conference that Dennis is hosting in October. A teacher is coming one week and a team is coming the second week.

Continue praying for God’s power to be seen in Moshewane and Extension 39.

Pray for the Bible Study groups that Jody and Dennis are starting and leading.

Pray for God’s protection upon in all the driving that is done

A Sad Day Unnoticed

2008-08-06T10:38:00.009+02:00

With all the sadness and trauma going on in the world at the moment, it is worth reflecting on the death of a very important person, which almost went unnoticed last week. Larry RePrise, the man that wrote "The Hokie Pokey" died peacefully at the age of 93.
The most traumatic part for his family was getting him into the coffin. They put his left leg in. That's when the trouble started...

July Update

2008-07-22T14:25:00.010+02:00

Time has simply flown by since the last time that we sent out one of these updates. Also, I have been negligent in my motivation to send these out. I have hardly touched the blog either. I will be more consistent in our updates. Your prayers are vitally important to the “success” that we have over here. I know that it is not our success, or that God is dependent on us to make Him successful. But, we want you to know what’s going on so that you will be able to pray specifically and intelligently.

3 Weeks in Roodepoort

From the middle of June to the 3^rd of July, we were in Roodepoort, just outside of Johannesburg, for three weeks of training. We learned some new methods and processes for effective evangelism and discipleship. I believe these have effectively equipped us to do the work that God has sent us here to do. We were blessed with some wonderful Bible study, teaching and fellowship. I feel as confident in knowing what to do and how to do it as I have since arriving on the field. There were more children there than adults. The children had a wonderful time, as this was 3 weeks of fun for them. Anytime you can replace 3 weeks of school for 3 weeks of no-school – it is a wonderful time. They enjoyed being around many new MK “cousins”.

We were incredibly blessed as everyone stayed healthy and neither Jody nor I had any “sick days” with the kids. The temps were in the 60’s and lows were in the 30/40’s. It was cold, but God blessed and we stayed warm and healthy. The food was definitely not taken from our recipe book, but we survived – many times PB&Js did the trick. One Saturday morning, Jody and I made about 11 dozen donuts for everyone. The cook at that camp said that ours were the best donuts she’d ever eaten! We had a good time making them for everyone. We were asked about what would happen the next Saturday.

On one of the weekends, we were privileged to go to the Lion Park. We were able to drive around and see lions and cheetahs. The boys got their pictures taken with some lion cubs. We also fed some giraffe and ostriches. Have you ever seen how long a giraffe’s tongue is? It’s about as long as its neck!!!

Josiah and Caleb were able to return to school without having too much work to catch up on. The boys are out of school for the whole month of August. There is a possibility of doing some camping up in Botswana with another family. We’ll just have to see how that pans out. Jody and I celebrated our 15^th wedding anniversary a week ago, but we decided to do something in August, so it would be warmer for whatever activity we planned.

The Zim Guys

Going to Roodepoort for three weeks meant that I had to leave the Bible study I was doing with the guys from Zimbabwe. When I returned, I found out that they had been picked up by immigration and deported. As Pastor Ben told me this, my heart just sank. Anthony, who I’d led to Christ, and Elvis were bright spots in my week because they had such a hunger for spiritual things. But, I realized that again, God knows what He is doing, and He may have sent 2 missionaries back to Zimbabwe.

From Jody

Hey everyone! Dennis has told you what has been going on during the last few weeks. The training in Roodeport was really great. We were able to see some things from a different perspective, and what it meant to change some of our methods in ministry. We talked about doing good things versus doing the best thing. We studied the book of Acts, and what the early church looks like. We learned a method of training called T4T or Training for Trainers. It is based on the premise of training nationals to train other national with the Word, and basically working yourself out of a job!

With all this overflowing from me, I immediately put into practice some of the things we discussed. For the last two weeks in the village of Moshawane, I have told the Bible story to the women and children like before. This time, however, I have asked those who want to go deeper into the story to stay. I had eight women stay the first week, and six stayed this past Friday. It’s really made me excited to see what God is showing them in His Word.

Miracle in Moshawane

I must tell you what has also happened in this village. Before I left to go to Roodepoort, I was called to go to the home of one of the ladies in my Bible Study. Her son, Onkarabile (Own-kah-rah-bee-lay), was very ill. When we got there, we saw a nine year old little boy who had suddenly lost the ability to walk or even hold up his head. No one knew what was wrong. Of course, the first thing you suspect here is AIDS. The mom had taken him to the clinic, but had not received the results. We prayed over him, and left. While I was in Roodepoort, a missionary friend, Eulee, and Lorato went to see what the test results were. They said he had TB, but I was very perplexed about this. The clinic had given him medicine to start for the TB, and sent him home. My missionary friend is a nurse, and she said she didn’t think he would live very long. I was heart-broken. I thought he would be dead before I got home. Eulee and Lorato decided to go see him again the next week. Meanwhile, at training, we had been learning a storying method called “Creation to the Cross.” Part of this story is about the power Jesus showed to us while he was on earth. Trust me, He still has the power! Wednesday night of that week, I was awake in the middle of the night, and God brought Onkarabile to my mind. I began to pray, and I really felt like I was doing battle on behalf of this little boy. I claimed the power of Jesus over every sickness and every disease. I don’t know how long I prayed. I eventually went back to sleep. I didn’t know it, but Eulee and Lorato went to visit Onkarabile the next day. Eulee text messaged me, and I called her. Onkarabile was holding his head up and smiling! Eulee said, You WILL see him again!” I was shouting Hallelujahs! When I got home from Roodepoort, Lorato and I went out to see how Onkarabile was doing. We pulled into the yard, and Lorato said, “Mma-Moruti (that’s me), we are witnessing a miracle!” I said, “Where is he?” We got out of the car and Onkarabile WALKED out of the house! I was shoutin’! My God has the power over everything on this earth. I want Him to receive all the glory! Continue with me praying for Onkarabile’s complete and total healing and recovery. God wants to do something through this boy’s life. I can’t wait to see what it is!

Prayer requests

Mosime(Moe-see-may)- A five-year old little boy also from Moshawane who has had some kind of seizure. We still don’t know what is wrong with him. Please pray! He is near and dear to my heart! Remember, our God has POWER!

Ext.39- Another place where Jody is working. We’ve seen some accept Christ, but still have not been able to get a group started there.

Pray for Dennis has he reorganizes his priorities and groups to fall in line with the Roodepoort teaching and directions.

Pray for Dennis and Jody as the make a new commitment to language learning.

By the way - gas price here is $5.37 a gallon.

Just Some Pictures

2008-06-11T10:45:00.007+02:00

The boys getting ready to take Mother's Day pictures.

Is all that stretching, hiding, and posturing necessary?

Happy 13th birthday to Andy.

We are proud of you!!!

Melody likes to get her picture taken.

Bethany loves her momma!!

As cute as she is, there definitely is another 'part' to her personality -

you can see it in those eyes!

June Update

2008-06-11T10:44:00.001+02:00

It is hard to believe that it has been so long since our last correspondence. The Lord continues to show his faithfulness to us each and every day – just through the things that we might call little. We hear stories from other missionaries about their tribulations; from children breaking their leg, not setting right, surgery to re-break the leg to others getting robbed and car-jacked. In our 4+ years here in Africa, we have yet to have any of those kind of experiences. We know that this is a direct result of God’s mercy, protection, and many of you praying daily for us. For your prayers, we cannot thank you enough. I am beginning to understand the love that the Apostle Paul had for the church at Philippi when he wrote, “every time I think of you, I give thanks to my God.”

These weeks seem to be traveling by faster and faster. I have had the opportunity to preach in the churches that I have worked in previously and renew the friendships that we left nearly a year ago. I find myself amazed at how God is able to draw believers together upon initial gatherings or in the reacquainting of relationships. In my weekly Bible study with some young men, I have grown to love these guys and their desire to grow and know the Lord. After one of the Bible studies, one of the guys named Elvis (yes, Elvis), said that “we need to do this 3-times a week.” When was last time you have heard that kind of yearning for the study of God’s word.

The work in Extension 39 is not going as well as I would like for it to. I am beginning to feel and see that this is very dark place where the work will become harder and harder. Ex. 39 has a nickname borne out of its prevalent immorality. This immorality has victimized the young man who I really wanted to work with in this area, as he was a resident and could have been a strong link into this community. We will press on and work in conjunction with Jody’s and Lorato’s work.

I am also teaching Evangelism at Mmabatho Baptist Church. This is a fun night as attendance has grown each night. In our last meeting, I was greatly encouraged as a lady shared about a witnessing encounter she had. I was sharing with them on how to use their testimony and that it needed to be up to date. People want to know the difference that Jesus in making in your life right now. That is exactly what she shared. It was neat to see them practice on each other sharing their testimony.

FROM JODY: Hello all. Hope everything is going well for each one of you. The work here is still going on. We have begun to visit Ext.39, and have seen a few accept Christ as Savior. It is a battle, though. There is so much darkness there. Please continue to pray for these people. I would also like for you to pray for something very specific. Would you please pray that a church planting movement would happen in Ext. 39? In a couple of weeks we will be having some extensive training on church planting movements. In one of the books we are reading, I have seen the utter necessity of bathing everything in prayer.

We’ve also been continuing to go to Moshawane village. About four weeks ago, I experienced one of the hardest situations since we’ve been here. An eight-week old baby girl died at the government hospital because of an error by the nurses. She was the grand-daughter of Maboka, the lady in whose house we meet. It was heart-breaking. I’ve never seen such grief here. Please pray for the mother of the baby. Her name is Peni (Penny). Also pray that Peni will grow stronger in her faith, and desire to make better choices in her life.

Personally, I have had to have some tests done on a lump I found. Praise the Lord! There is no malignancy. Email me if you want to know anymore that that!

Thank you all for continuing to pray. We appreciate it so much.

The kids are all doing well. Pray for us as we continue to home school Andy. Some days are a struggle. He turned 13 on May 11^th. Wow! I have a teenager! Any advice? Josiah is asking to be homeschooled next year. We are still considering what would be the best for him. He continues to do well in school, and has lots of friends wherever he goes. Caleb is the artistic one out of the bunch. He really does have a great gift for drawing. We’re hoping to get him some art lessons if we can.

Bethany is such a joy. We have to play “girl games” all the time. Meaning games that little girls can play. She loves her sister, and her brothers (most of the time). Melody is a mess! She’s cute and knows it! Her latest word is “blue.” If you ask her, everything is the color blue. She also has been going through the “taking all her clothes off” phase. It wouldn’t be so bad if it wasn’t winter here! She’s so funny, and we laugh at her all the time.

Thank you for praying for our kids. We all struggle sometimes with being homesick for the ones we love and for home.

April Update

2008-04-03T11:26:00.001+02:00

It’s hard to know where to begin because I really don’t remember what I have said to who and who knows what I have said and who has been on our blog to see some of the news that has happened. So, I will quickly recap what has happened this year and then I will get things together and you will start receiving these updates on a regular basis.

Our Return - I am sure you remember that we returned to the field on January 18^th. We have since got our house up and running and is in working order. Since that time, the house has been painted. No longer is it a light purple and gray, but now it is a lovely “Africa Stone” beige trimmed in Forest Green. It looks a lot nicer – we think. We have not have the rolling blackouts, as we were promised, as much as we experienced our first week here. We should be on some sort of schedule for 2 hours every other day, but we have yet to see that. The electricity has been out a couple of times, but it is because of ‘normal’ unscheduled power outages.

Dennis Return to the States - I was back in the States for 18 days during the last 2 weeks of February to complete my naturalization process. It was really unfortunate that I had to return just one month after our return here. But God is good and His timing was exactly perfect – even in the midst of my ‘unknowingness’ . I am now an American citizen and I have my new passport and everything. Now, I have to go through the process of getting my South African visa transferred to my American passport. I dread going into the Office of Home Affairs and finding out what ‘hoops’ are going to have to be jumped through to get that accomplished.

The Boys – Caleb and Josiah started their school terms respectively just 3 days after we arrived back in South Africa. They will finish this first term next Friday and will be out until May 12^th. They usually have three, month long breaks in April, August. and December. I think they like their breaks broken up throughout the year. Josiah has focused on playing soccer this term while Caleb has been learning how to play cricket and continuing his swimming. They have both been doing very well in their studies. Yesterday, April 1^st, Caleb said that we had a regular parent-teacher conference with his teacher. So at 6:00 pm Jody goes to his school. She calls me and says no one is there – no teachers, no parents, no one!! She comes and tells Caleb that no one was there and he responds by saying “April Fools!!” Now, he didn’t plan that out but Jody and I just laughed after she told me that he was quick enough to think that. He is reminding me a lot about myself – I don’t know if that is a good thing or not!

We continue to homeschool Andy and he should finish his 7^th grade year on schedule with those of you in the States. He turns 13 on May 11^th – it’s hard to believe that we’ll have a teenager in the house. He enjoyed this last meeting that we were at as this was his first year to be included in youth activities and could stay out late. He had his own key to the room that we stayed in. He acted quite responsible in his activities.

The Girls – It’s hard to believe that Melody is already 17 months old. She definitely has her own cute personality. She is literally running around finding the need to stay up with her brothers and sister.

Bethany is 3 ½, and is all the “girly girl” that Jody prayed for. She is learning lots of things. Her favorite thing to do right now is play (My first) Uno. We have to play everyday. She has also learned the passage of Scripture we have been learning as a family. She can pretty much say it by herself. We are very proud of her.

Dennis’ Ministry and Notes – Things have not necessarily gone as well as I have expected. I’ve had to start and re-start a couple of times already. As I have said earlier, I had to leave a month after we got back and then we were gone for a week to Johannesburg area for our Annual Missionary Training Meeting. I am scheduled to teach Personal Evangelism at Mmabatho Baptist on Wednesdays – since the beginning of March. I didn’t return until after the first Wednesday of March. Then the church was starting to prepare for Easter and Easter conferences. We weren’t here the first Wednesday after Easter, so probably next week I will start.

Extension 39 is looking very promising. There was not any progress in that area while we were in the States, so it looks like we’ll start over. I will have to work some things out with the young pastor that is living in that area before we can continue with him. I will let Jody tell you what she is going to be doing there.

We have been invited to 3 weeks of training and instruction in June. That means that we will gone for 3 weeks to Johannesburg area. That will be quite the undertaking as we try to carry on with life as normal as possible. We’ll have to work with the boys teachers to get 3 weeks of assignments.

I’ll be meeting with the pastors and leaders this week and next to discuss the possibilities and strategize for the next several months.

Jody’s Ministry and Notes – Wow! It has been a long time since I’ve done this! As Dennis has told you we’ve been back for about two and a half months now. I started praying before we ever went to the States that God would show me what was next for me in ministry. When we got back, I went to the same village I had been working in before, to visit. They were glad to see me, and I them. After that, Dennis had to go back to the States, so ministry was on hold for a few weeks. During that time, I was still praying about the work here that God wants us to accomplish. I started to think about how great it would be if Dennis and I could work together, but I knew that would have to wait until the kids were a bit older. I then thought about going into Ext.39 and doing what we did in the other village with asking the spiritual questions and just talking to people. We would be like a tag team! Well, a few weeks later we had some missionaries at our house, and Dennis started talking to them about what he thought we could do in Ext.39, and it was exactly what I had been thinking! (I had not mentioned anything to him before that.) I also called the lady that goes with me to the village, Lorato, and she said God had put Ext.39 on her heart too when she started praying with me last year! While I was talking to her, another thought came to me. I know God was broadening my horizons. Why not teach the women from Moshawane village, where I’ve been up to this time, how to share their testimonies and tell Bible stories, and then take them with us to Ext.39. The excitement really started going through me then. So, I need you all to pray for me, Lorato, and Dennis as we embark on this new adventure/ministry. Pray that the women in the village that GOD wants to be a part of this will be ready and excited to do something they’ve never done before, but are willing to do it for the Lord. Pray also that hearts in Ext.39 will be tender as we begin to ask the spiritual questions, and gain some insights into the spiritual level of these people. We will start this on Friday of this week.

I also wanted to thank you all for covering me with your prayers while Dennis was away. Many things happened, but we were all safe. I think the biggest thing for me was that I was able to sleep soundly every night. I was not afraid or uneasy at all. I know that was because so many were praying. Thank you all so much. I love you all.

Prayer Requests – Jody’s Dad – He is still needing to regain his strength, but is doing OK. Please pray that he will be able to fight off any infections he may have so that his body can work to get back to normal. Thank you for continuing to pray for him.

This Update – throughout this update, we have mentioned many things – as the Lord brings us and these things to your memory, wherever you are, voice a prayer for us.

Again - we are grateful for your remembrance of us.

How You Can Pray

2008-03-31T17:07:00.001+02:00

Photo and video editing at www.OneTrueMedia.com

Comment and tell me if this is working ok.

She Did It !

2008-03-31T12:38:00.003+02:00

One of things that Bethany learned to like while we were in the States is the children's show Dora the Explorer. We bought a couple of DVD's for her when we returned.

This short 13 second video is of her singing the closing song - "We Did It".

Mostly Easter Pic's

2008-03-31T12:30:00.002+02:00

Check out my Slide Show!

2008-03-08T06:01:00.002+02:00

How neat is this - I just found this from another blog.

Oh, Say can you see....

2008-03-04T17:04:00.003+02:00

Well, as of 2:40 pm on Monday afternoon, I am an American citizen. What a relief to finally get through the process. I will have been here for 18 days and totally processing time with fingerprints, interview, test, and oath is only about 2 hours. But unfortunately everything cannot be done at one time or in one day. But I am thankful that this part is now complete.

I will file for my passport today, however I will not be going down to Houston to do that.

I am flying tomorrow morning from Shreveport to Atlanta (4 hour layover) and then to Johannesburg and then 4 more hours home.

Thanks for your prayers and we'll talk to you from the other side in a couple of days.

And down the stretch they come....

2008-03-03T05:11:00.003+02:00

Well, let me tell what I think will happen in the next couple of days.

I have an appointment in Dallas at Immigration for a test and oath on Monday at 10:00 am.

I have an appointment in Houston at the Houston Passport Agency on Tuesday at 9:00 am to get my passport in one day.

I am scheduled to be on a Delta flight to Atlanta from Shreveport on Wednesday at 8:30 am to go home to South Africa. I am scheduled to arrive in Johannesburg Thursday evening at 5:00 pm - hopefully at home in Mmabatho by 10 pm Thursday night - that would be 2 pm Thursday CST.

Please pray that everything falls into place.

What an Honor!!!

2008-02-26T04:31:00.006+02:00

I have the honor and privilege on Wednesday, February 27th, to preach at my home church - First Baptist Church of Bossier City.

I was member there from 1979 to 1990. I am where I am today because of the godly influence that many people from that church had on my life. Ultimately, I give God all the glory because of what he was able to do through those people and what He has accomplished through me.

If you are in the area, I would love to see you there. The service starts at 6:00 pm.

Not Much has Happened

2008-02-23T23:24:00.002+02:00

Well, it's Saturday afternoon, I've checked the mail, and I am still waiting. I was told that something should happen in 4-5 business days. I guess, this is the 4th day, but not a business day.

I did get some good news in that I should be able to take my 'civics' test and oath all on one day. What day that is, I should find out early next week some time.

I would ask you to continue to pray for Jody as she is handling things ok, but there are several things that has dealt with that I usually take care of. First, our internet service was down until Tuesday. We've got painters at the house. The water started to back up into the house. The lawn mower is not working - its summertime in South Africa.

So, I am ready to go home and be home and take care of the stuff that I need to take care of.

Thanks for your continued prayers.

They have my fingerprints

2008-02-20T02:42:00.002+02:00

I went to my appointment in Dallas today to have my fingerprints taken. Boy, was that fun. I drove 2 hours to only be finished in 20 minutes. I walked in the door at 11 am, filled out a form, waited for 10 minutes, got my prints taken and processed, filled out a 'customer service' form and walked out at 11:20. Can't beat that, if only the whole process would be that efficient.

Now, I just have to wait for the mail to tell me when I need to come back to take the test. I am not sure if I will take the test and then have to come back to take the oath or if they do it all in the same day. Just continue to pray that this process will not keep me here much longer. It is not much fun without my family here. I don't have Jody here to protect me from my mother-in-law!

I will keep you informed as I find out. Again, thanks for your prayers.

Back in the USA

2008-02-18T16:56:00.002+02:00

Unbelieveable!!! I am a back in America. "I" is Dennis.

Less than a month back on the field, I get notification from Immigration that my appointment for fingerprints and the FBI is set for 19 February. So, through several days of scurrying around, email, telephone conversations with the Legal Department of the IMB (for which I a thankful), I arrived in Shreveport at noon on Sunday.

I will travel to Dallas on Tuesday morning and hopefully receive notification on Friday or next Monday for a Test and Oath ceremony appointment in a couple of days. After that, comes expedited service for a US Passport. I am here through 5 March which hopefully is a large enough window to get everything accomplished. The IMB has been in contact with my Representative's office and Immigration trying to get everything expedited.

I would ask you to pray for Jody as she is by herself with all the children in Mmabatho.
Pray for this process that it would be quicker than we are expecting and I can get home sooner than planned. It would cost me to change my ticket, but it would be worth it to get back sooner. It's not as fun to be here by yourself without your family.

I do praise the Lord that we found a ticket that was as cheap as any ticket I found online and that I purchased 24 hours before my trip. It was a non-stop trip from Jo-burg to Atlanta to Shreveport - about 25 hours. It was incomparable to our 35 hour trip a month ago through Frankfurt.

I will keep you posted to my progress. Again, thanks for all your prayers.

Here's the Latest

2008-01-29T21:29:00.000+02:00

It seems like several months that we were rushing through the airport on the 16th trying not to be late to our flight. It was delayed about an hour, so we had time to catch our breath and prepare ourselves for the next 32 hours. Picture 2 adults, 3 sons, and 2 daughters carrying, pulling, and pushing 14 ‘carry-ons’ and 2 strollers. Andy showed that he was becoming a young man, by pushing a stroller, carrying a backpack and pulling 2 carry-ons latched together. I am not sure how we did it all. But, incredibly, we made it, our luggage made it and we are now mostly unpacked, settling in and the boys have started school.

The boys started school the Tuesday after we arrived back in Mmabatho. Their classmates and friends were happy to see them again after an almost 7 month absence.

We arrived back at the house Saturday afternoon and just kind of walked through with a sense of not knowing what to do. The house wasn’t in the condition that we left it and neither was the yard, so that was kind of disappointing. The phone wasn’t working, so we couldn’t call anyone. We cleaned a little, unloaded everything and the house was a disaster for about 5 days with suitcases everywhere. We went to church the next morning and it was good just to worship.
One minor miracle is that we now have ADSL – I was thinking it would take 3-4 weeks to get it, but here we are. Another event that brought tension to our lives was the power shortages that South Africa is experiencing right now – rolling blackouts. The first week that we were back, the power would be out 2-3 times a day for 2-3 hours – no schedule, no warning no nothing. It brings nothing but frustration because you can’t plan anything – you don’t know when the power will be on or off. Now, we don’t have it as bad as others, but it just wasn’t good to experience right after come back – to a foreign country, you’re jet-lagged, your house is dirty, and there are no missionaries 2 doors down that we had the luxury of in the previous term. Fortunately, the electricity has been on for the last 5 days.

As I contemplated this electricity situation – they said it will 5 years to fix – the thought came to me to use these power outages as a reminder to pray. I thought that when the power was out that it would cause me just to have a concerted time of prayer – for the people, their spiritual darkness and for me to be able to see what God is doing and what He wants me to do.
God is good and he is blessing us. The temperatures have 10-15 degrees cooler than it was last year. It has not touched 90 degrees since we have been here. I believe we’ve had more rain in the last week than we did in the last term. Everyone is healthy and we getting back into a routine.

Thanks for your prayers over these last 2 weeks – we definitely have felt them. God is good. Please continue to pray as we just seek God’s direction in our ministries.

...and we are here

2008-01-19T10:09:00.000+02:00

It is unbelieveable how long 32 hours can be - but we found out!!

All of us made it - safe and sound - all luggage - 10 pieces at 50lbs, 4 pieces at 70lbs, 14 carry-ons, 2 strollers and a partridge in a pair tree.

We spent night in Jo-burg and are heading to Mmabatho today - Saturday.

Thanks for your prayers and we'll talk later.

And away we go.....

2008-01-16T16:44:00.000+02:00

Well, we are about 45 minutes from leaving to drive to DFW. We board the flight at 4:15 pm - fly for 10 hours - play around in the airport in Germany for 12 hours and then get on another flight for 10 hours to Johannesburg. We arrive in J-burg at 10:00 am Friday morning (2:00 am CST). So, about 32 hours of fun.

Please pray.

See you on the other side!!!!!

Hello 2008

2008-01-02T01:26:00.000+02:00

Well, this post was started on the 1st and now I am just now getting a chance to finish it. I am finding out that with 5 children, things are getting a little harder to complete. I guess it doesn’t help with other extended family members in visiting.

I trust that you had a great Christmas time and a happy New Year. Ours was definitely busy. All of Jody’s family was in – that means a total of 2 parents, 4 children, 4 sons and daughters-in-laws, and 13 grandchildren. It was a houseful to say the least. We were up at 4:45 to open presents. There were some who weren’t too happy that it was so early. I won’t say who!

We were scheduled to return to South Africa tomorrow – the 4th. Unfortunately, tickets were not available until 16th – so we are delayed until then. That is a point of prayer for us because we have a 12 hour layover in Frankfurt, Germany. Some people are saying that we should go and sightsee – yeah, that sounds fun with 5 children – 2 strollers and 14 carryon’s – I guess we could rent 3 taxi’s!! I just checked the forecast and it looks to be in the high 30’s – boy, that sounds like a lot of fun. So, just pray.

We leave DFW on January 16th at 4:15 pm and we arrive in Jo-burg on the 18th at 10:00 am. So you are talking about 34 hours of traveling. Then we’ll drive to Mmabatho on Saturday and then school for Josiah and Caleb starts that next Tuesday.

Jody’s dad is doing really well. He has been out of the hospital for about a month and is working on regaining his strength and weight. (and hair) The doctors are encouraged by his progress and feel that his stem-cell transplant was a success.

Since the end of July, I have been in the naturalization process to become an American citizen. My forms were finally entered into the computer on the 10th of December. The official receipt said that I would get a call for an appointment in the next 240 day – so unless something happens in the next 10 days or so, I will be returning here to complete this process. You can pray that I will get an appointment before we leave and I can be naturalized before we leave.

A special thanks to all our new friends, prayer partners, and the churches that we had an opportunity to speak in these last 6 months. What a joy it was to meet you and spend time with many of you. We certainly appreciate your prayers. You make our job possible by your support. We would not want to return to the field without your prayer support. Thanks, also for your support of the Lottie Moon Christmas Offering - I have heard many encouraging reports of goals being met.

Christmas Greetings

2007-12-11T06:41:00.000+02:00

Have a great Christmas season - laugh a lot!!!

Follow the links for a personal greeting to you.

This holiday greeting is from Dennis, Jody and the Girls: http://www.elfyourself.com/?id=1294795800

This holiday greeting is from the boys: http://www.elfyourself.com/?id=1295022485

October's and November's Events

2007-11-15T17:04:00.000+02:00

October came in a hurry and left just as fast. We have been busy with school, athletics, church and Missions Events.

I went a Missions Celebration in Hot Springs, Arkansas, by myself because Jody was unable to go with me. We had originally planned at attend together with the girls, but because of Jody's father's cancer treatments, they were unable to keep the boys as planned.

I had a good time in Hot Springs - the church was wonderful and the people I stayed with were great hosts. A friend from Botswana was there also - Paul Cline. We had a good time together as we had not seen each other in the last 16 or so months. Paul and Sally retired from Botswana after 28 years on the field, but now they are doing some consulting work with the IMB and the True Love Waits sexual abstinence program as it relates to Southern Africa. The HIV/Aids infection rate in South Africa stands at 25% and Botswana is at 40%.

We left for Muskogee, Oklahoma, after school on Thursday, October 25th. We wanted to spend a long weekend with Jody's grandma. We also had an opportunity to talk to the WMU at a Friday luncheon and then we were able to share in Sunday School and in the morning service. It was nice to be a grandma's for the first time in 4 years. I think that everytime that I have visited grandma's house, there was something different about her house - either on the inside or outside - so you can imagine all the changes that have taken place over the last 4 years. Everything looked nice. That Saturday evening was the family "Fall-Fest" (halloween) Party. Grandma went as a church mouse with Groucho glasses, nose, and moustache.

The first Sunday in November, I spoke in the morning service at FBC, Ore City. They are a small church about 25 minutes from Longview. We are scheduled to go back on the first Sunday night in December for their evening service. We'll show our pictures, share, and answer questions. For a church that run 45 in Sunday School, they exceeded the Lottie Moon Christmas Offering goal of $5000. That is fantastic for a church that size.

This last weekend, Nov 8-12, we drove to Chicago for a On-Mission Celebration. We left at 2:00 am Thursday morning where we spent the afternoon and night in Marion, Illinois -with my brother (AutoTuner1) He has a son that is 3 days older than Caleb named Jacob. The cousins had a good time playing together. It was good to spend some time with my brother and his wife. We hadn't seen them since we watched a Mudbug's hockey game in Bossier City in 2004.

While in Chicago, Jody and I had the privelage to speak in 4 different churches; Saturday night, Sunday morning and night. Jody's sister lives in Rockford and we stayed with them. It was a full house with her 6 and our 4 - Andy didn't make the trip - chosing to stay in school - he didn't want to miss a party they were having!! We left Monday evening at 7:00 pm and drove straight through, arriving home and 11:00 am Tuesday morning. It was a long drive!!

What happened in September.

2007-10-04T16:18:00.001+02:00

It is hard to believe that September is gone and here we are in October, already. We are half way through out STAS - Stateside Assignment. We are planning to return to South Africa in the first week of January. Let's start with the first of September and tell you what we have done.

STONEWALL, OKLAHOMA

We had a fantastic time as we returned to Stonewall for the first time as a family. The boys and I went to Stonewall three days after we were back in the States to take Andy to Falls Creek and enjoy a Shrimp Boil at the Newports. It was over the Labor Day weekend so we enjoyed a very long weekend. We spent late Saturday morning and early afternoon at Billy and Laura Steele's. They have a swimming pool and 4-wheelers and a golf cart. The boys had a blast swimming and riding the 4w'ers and g-cart. When we lived in Stonewall, Jody babysat Addy, Laura's 10-week old baby during school hours. She called Andy, Josiah, and Caleb her "bubba's"

I had the privilege to preach the morning service at First Baptist - Stonewall. They built a new sanctuary after we left and it was just beautiful. Jody and I were able share during the evening service of our work in South Africa. It was a wonderful time to see everyone and everyone seemed to be equally excited to see us - well, most people?!?!

We stayed with Lee and Shirla Sweat - and they treated us like royalty. Before we left for South Africa, while we were there, and now getting ready for school, they supplied the boys with shoes. What a blessing! (Those are Nike's that wouldn't come from my wallet!)

The boys are actively involved with their school activities. Andy is playing on the school soccer team at Longview Christian School. He scored his first goal last Thursday. Jody and I missed it while we were at a Mission's Conference. Josiah is playing soccer on a city-league team. They are are Screamin' Eagles. They are undefeated. His coach really likes that he picked up this temporary player. In the league, they can be on the same team for 2 years or 4 'seasons'. We tried to get Caleb on a team, but they were all full. He came home from school with a Karate flyer. He said that he wanted to do Karate - so we signed him up. He should be a green belt after this first semester. Bethany couldn't be left out, so she is doing gymnastics. She looks so cute in her pink leotard. Melody is involved with crawling and climbing - she's getting quite the little personality.

Unfortunately I will not be able to get up to the Northwest to see my mom and brother and his wife. I tried to 'piggy-back' some speaking opportunities in conjunction to getting up in that area, but nothing worked out. God worked some things out that enabled her and her husband to come down and see us. Also, my brother from Florida came up to her and I got to see him and his wife and my niece, Christina. It had been 8 years since I had seen my mom and probably that with my brother and his wife and more for Christina.

Bethany had a birthday this month and she turned 3 years old - already. She had a full day. She opened her presents in the morning before the boys went to school. Then she wanted to go to lunch at McAlister's Deli with her Nannie and Papa. After going to one of Andy's soccer game's we all went out eat at McDonald's. She has been asking to go there every time we see one since we arrived in the US. You know we see one on every corner. Jody said she didn't want to eat at McD's or KFC because we can eat their in South Africa. We had to have some cake, so we went to a BR31 (Baskin-Robbins) and ate an Oreo Ice Cream cake.

The last weekend of the September, we were at First Baptist Church, Fairfield, Texas, at a Global Impact Celebration. What an incredible time it was for us to share our stories and for them to love on us. The showered us with incredible hospitality and wonderful gifts of love. We stayed at the Wilson house - a family with 6 boys. We felt right at home. Two of the boys were already out of the house. They had a ping pong table, pool table, XBox, and a Gamecube. We didn't need to worry about the boys and their boredom level. Shelly loved having 2 baby girls in her house and she spoiled them royally. They loved on her like they knew her for years. We had a great time!

PRAYER REQUESTS

n Jody's dad is dealing with cancer again - multiple myloma - God healed him 4 years ago of this same uncurable cancer.

n Dennis' naturalization and passport situation. We need it by Dec 15th or sooner.

n Travel grace and mercy. We are doing a lot of traveling in October and November.

n The boys - their schooling and walk with Christ. We explained a little bit about the permanency of Hell just tonight at Whataburger. Andy was asking some questions and making some comments and that's what got us talking. Hell is not a normal dinner conversation item.

n The girls - whatever and 3-year old and almost 1-year old needs.

n Our work in Mmabatho and love for the Tswana People.

Sunny Southern California

2007-08-26T22:29:00.001+02:00

Well, I was in Southern California over the weekend of August 18th. I arrived on the 17th and left on the 21st. I was a guest of Immanuel Baptist Church in Ridgecrest, CA. The church and the people were just wonderful - it was just not how I pictured southern California. When I was younger, we traveled several summers down to Orange County, CA., to visit cousins and family. That was my impression of where I thought I was going. I knew things would be different, when after driving 3 hours from the LAX, we passed the Ridgecrest city sign - it read "Welcome to Ridgecrest - the gateway to Death Valley!" I thought there would not be a breeze of salt water in the air tonight!!!

However, the environment did not determine the happiness of the visit. I had a great time, met a lot of wonderful people and preached and shared at a great church reaching out to its community. They definitely filled my schedule starting Saturday at noon.

We met at the Harris' house for lunch and I shared with a small group there about our work in South Africa. Later that evening, IBC has a Saturday night contemporary service, in which I shared and preached. We then went out to eat at the Texas Steak House. It was an early Sunday morning at 8:00 am that I preached again. I was chauffeured to their educational building for the Sunday school hour where I shared again about what God is doing in our work. I was then taken back to the Sanctuary and preached again. We went for lunch at a Mexican food restaurant. Later that evening was the a mission Safari where I talked, shared, and showed 'slides' about our time in S. Africa. Just before that, I talked to some children for about 15 minutes. I allowed them to ask question - boy did I get some doosies!!! So, in about 24 hours time, I preached, shared, talked 6 times in 5 different locations. I was great!!

The next day, Rich and Kay Fowler, took me into LA and dropped me off at some of Jody's cousins house. They are LA Angels fans and they took me to the Angel-Yankees game. Before we went to the game, Jessica and Jenna took me to downtown Disney. We walked around and was able to go into the ESPN-Zone. They have restaurant, studio, and shop there. I got Bethany and Melody a shirt that says - "You can't spell princess without ESPN" on the front. It was good to see them and to be able to go to the game. They do not like the Yankees at all. I told them that I had Alex Rodriguez on my fantasy Baseball league - Julie did not like that at all. I didn't have the courage to tell them that I also had Cano and Matsui also - so I was silently cheering as they played. (they went 5 for 14, 3 runs, 5 hits and 1 HR) I also have Vlad Guerrero, who went 1 for 5 and 1 RBI. We were also spotted on the JumboTron TV at Angel Stadium. The Angels won the game in 10 innings with walk-off hit to center field.

The only disappointment was that I was the only one that was able to go. Everyone else stayed in Longview. It would have been a great experience for everyone to be able to go.

A Wonderful Time at Onion Creek

2007-08-19T06:43:00.000+02:00

We were back preaching at Onion Creek Baptist Church in Austin, Texas. I preached there almost 4 years ago when we were appointed as career missionaries. When we started getting the news out that we were coming back this year, Onion Creek's request was one of the first - I guess they enjoyed Jody and the boys so much.

They gave us a two nights stay at a very nice hotel just down the street from the church. We had a game night/social night for us on Saturday night. I was good just to relax and enjoys some fun with the church. I learned how to play 42 - a domino game. We had a great time there and their hospitality was fantastic. They provided drinks and snacks in our hotel room and took care of us in every way.

I was good to be back and share with the people the things God did while many of these people were faithful to pray for us. It is really a humbling experience to meet so many people praying for us each day.

A LIttle Vacation Time

2007-08-19T06:23:00.001+02:00

The weekend of August 12 we left a couple of days early and spent some time with Jody's parents in Ft. Worth. We were going to a Wild West Show in the Ft. Worth Stockyards, but calling on the way, we found out that there was no show. We had to change our plans. We found a Star Wars exhibit and went through it. The boys loved it.

After the exhibit, we drove to Hillsboro, TX, and spent the night on our way to Austin and Schlitterbahn. We checked into the hotel and went swimming. The boys thought it was the greatest - they love to swim. We got up early Friday morning to leave for Schlitterbahn. The boys had a blast at the park. Jody and I quickly learned that this was a place for a 9-month old and a almost 3-year old. Bethany did ok, but she needed constant supervision, as did Melody. Andy and Josiah were able to do some things by themselves. After the water park, we drove to our hotel in Austin where we would spend the next two night, just down the streeet from Onion Creek Baptist Church - where I would preach Sunday morning.

Prayer urged for 21 Christian workers held hostage

2007-08-04T01:17:00.000+02:00

WASHINGTON (BP)--With two South Korean men having been executed, 21 young Koreans remained hostage by the Taliban in Afghanistan at the two-week point Aug. 2 following the Christian aid workers' kidnapping July 19.

Two women hostages are critically ill and most of the others are sick, South Korea's Yonhap News Agency reported Aug. 3, but it did not provide details.

In Washington, an official with the Institute on Religion and Democracy sounded a call Aug. 3 for the media and for Christians to speak up for the Korean captives.

"Why is it that the media finds the brief incarceration of Paris Hilton worthy of 'round-the-clock vigils but spares little ink and little air time to tell the world more about these two men who gave their lives while serving the people of Afghanistan?" Faith McDonnell, IRD director of religious liberty programs, asked.

"Even more disturbing than lack of media coverage, though, is the tepid response of the churches to the plight of their brothers and sisters from South Korea," McDonnell continued in the statement.

"No matter what issues currently occupy Christians in the U.S., they should shift their focus to Afghanistan right now and join the churches in South Korea in vigilant prayer for the remaining hostages." McDonnell said the crisis is a chance "to witness to the world that the body of Christ is one worldwide body."

"Christians in the West should always be praying for their persecuted brothers and sisters -- but particularly in this time of crisis, they should look beyond their own interests and pray for the hostages. I challenge Christians to pray daily for the South Koreans, and to include them as a prayer item on church Web sites, e-mail conferences and the blog sites of individuals."

The two men who have been killed by the Taliban thus far are:

-- Bae Hyung Kyu, 42, a minister with the Sammul Presbyterian Church near Seoul who was slain by 10 AK-47 shots July 25, his birthday. Bae worked with unmarried university graduates, helping prepare them for volunteer trips for aid work in developing countries, according to Compass, a persecution watchdog organization based in Santa Ana, Calif. Bae leaves behind a wife and 9-year-old daughter, Compass reported. (Some news reports have spelled the name of the church "Saemmul.")

-- Shim Sung Min, 29, who had left a job in information technology to seek a graduate degree in agriculture out of a concern for poor Korean farmers impacted by globalization, a church member told Compass. Shim had been teaching Sunday School classes for the handicapped, the church member also said.

While the South Korean volunteer team, 16 of whom are women, have been criticized in some quarters for venturing into Afghanistan's volatility, an Afghan convert to Christianity told Compass he admires the commitment they evidenced and hopes that a Christian presence can continue in the country.

"During the Taliban regime, the main expatriate group in Afghanistan was Christians," the Afghan told Compass. "They were here to help Afghanistan. … No one else had the guts to come and help this war-torn country."

The convert said Christians are called to serve -– and sometimes at a very high cost.

"Thank you for coming to Afghanistan to serve my people," Compass quoted the Afghan as saying to the hostages and other Korean Christians who had served in Afghanistan. "Thank you for letting the world know, 'Don't forget Afghanistan.' Your Afghan brothers in faith are praying for you daily."

The corpses of Bae and Shim have been returned to South Korea, Compass reported.

Taliban spokesmen threatened more executions by midnight Aug. 2 if the Afghan government continued to refuse demands to Taliban prisoners, Compass reported, noting that Taliban leaders later stated that no one had been hurt.

A purported Taliban spokesman, Qari Yousuf Ahmadi, told the Yonhap News Agency July 31, "If the negotiations do not go well, [the militants] will kill the male hostages, and then it will be the female hostages' turn."

Yonhap, in an Aug. 3 report, cited informed sources in reporting that South Korean officials are negotiating with the Taliban "for the venue for face-to-face talks" on the fate of 21 surviving hostages, "amid conflicting reports on imminent military operations to rescue the hostages."

South Korean officials would not officially confirm efforts to establish direct talks with the kidnappers, Yonhap reported, but said they are trying to maintain "direct or indirect contact" with the captors.

Negotiations for medical treatment for the sick hostages at a Kabul hospital also have not yet been successful, Yonhap reported.

"The hospital proposed to the Taliban specific conditions for the treatment of the Korean patients, but the militants refused them," a reporter with the Afghan Islamic Press told Yonhap on condition of anonymity.

Cheon Ho-seon, a spokesman for South Korean President Roh Moo-hyun, said a medical team from the South Korean military contingent stationed in Afghanistan is on standby near the southern Afghan province of Ghazni, where the Koreans were taken hostage. "The team has been on standby since the kidnapping took place," he said.

The 23-member Korean aid team was traveling on a charter bus from Kandahar to the capital, Kabul, when armed men stopped them July 19 in the Ghazni province's Qarabagh district. The volunteers had arrived in Afghanistan on July 13 and were scheduled to return home July 23.

Compass, in a July 30 news report, recounted that the team had spent three days assisting three Korean women who were engaged in long-term aid work in northern Afghanistan. The volunteers were traveling back to Kabul but went on to Kandahar by bus when no flights were available. The group had planned to spend several days volunteering at a hospital and kindergarten in Kandahar where a husband-and-wife doctor team and a single Korean woman teacher are working. The two doctors treat up to 150 patients a day, Compass quoted a member of the Korean church as saying.

An analyst for the Washington-based International Christian Concern persecution watchdog likened the incident to the 2001 kidnapping of American missionaries Heather Mercer and Dayna Curry, who were held by the Taliban for three months. "It was in the very same area of Afghanistan that these two kidnappings happened," Jeremy Sewell said in a July 20 news release. "While Mercer and Curry's story ended happily, it was only because anti-Taliban forces attacked the prison.

"Under the Taliban, it is absolutely illegal to preach Christianity. This courageous South Korean missions team is going to experience the ultimate test of their faith."
--30--
Compiled by Art Toalston. (from Baptist Press)

Here's the Latest!

2007-07-13T01:45:00.000+02:00

Well, it has been a quick 3 weeks, already.

The Sunday afternoon after we arrived, the boys and I drove to Stonewall, OK, to take Andy to go Falls Creek. It just so happened to be the evening of the Shrimp Boil at the church where I pastored. Needless to say, I caught up on the shrimp that I haven't eaten in the previous 3 1/2 years. After dropping Andy off Monday morning, we drove back to Longview.

The next morning my brother-in-law, Jeff, and I drove to Houston to pick up the van we will be driving for the next 6 months. It is a 1991 blue Custom Chevy Van. It's really nice with only 140,000 miles on it. I don't think it will be too friendly on gas, but I am very thankful for the Lord's provision. I guess if He provides the van He can also provide the gas at $2.90 a gallon. What a wake up call that is - when we left I was choking at $1.35 a gallon - oh, for the good ol' days!!!! And to top it off, I have to pump my own gas!!!! In South Africa, they pump it and check all the fluids. Oh well, at least there is Wal-Mart here.

The following days were preparation for Tommy's wedding, Jody's youngest brother. He had 12 nieces and nephews in the wedding - basically they just paraded up and down the aisle in matching attire. Andy, however, was an usher and Josiah was the ring bearer. They both did a great job. Andy made it back to Longview after Jody's other brother, Matt and his family, drove down from Marlow, Oklahoma.

Jody's sister, Niki, and her six children and Jeff have remained here in Longview. It is quite the ordeal for all of us, them, and parents to go out to eat. There have also been other cousins and aunts and grandma's that have been here also. So it has been fun and tiring to be all together.

Andy is getting ready to go back to Falls Creek with both of Jody's brother, Matt and Tommy who are youth minister in Marshall, Texas, and Marlow, Oklahoma. At the end of next week, Josiah will be going to his camp.

My camera broke right after we got here so my pictures are borrowed and hope that I can copies of what others have taken.

We are headed out to Richmond, Va, for the last week of July.

We made it!!!

2007-06-23T17:20:00.000+02:00

Finally!!! We got here safe and sound with an unexpected layover in DC. I had a little bit of immigration problem and we missed our connecting flight. We finally flew out 4:45 pm and got into Dallas at 7:10 pm. We got to Longview at 11:15 - I went to Wal-Mart at 1:30 am in the morning to get some necessities since I left my 'ditty' bag in J-burg. All our luggage arrived and children arrived safe and sound - well, Bethany jumped off a chair, lost her balance and 'rug-burned' her nose - again!

Thanks for all your prayers - we definitely felt them!

We are on our way!!

2007-06-21T09:07:00.003+02:00

We leave today, Thursday, 21 June - please be in prayer as we travel from here to there. Here is our schedule. This is in CST.

Leave: 21 June - Johannesburg - 11:00 am
Arrive: 22 June - Wash, DC - 6:00 am (EST)
Leave 22 June - Wash, DC - 8:30 am
Arrive 22 June - DFW - 10:50 am

Eat at On the Border, hopefully, by noon!!!!!!

Thanks for your remembrance!!

An Incredible Thank You to Southern Baptists!

2007-06-10T16:04:00.000+02:00

Southern Baptists give $150.1 million, shatter Lottie Moon giving record

By Shawn Hendricks

RICHMOND, VA (BP)--Southern Baptists topped the 2006 Lottie Moon Christmas Offering goal, delivering the largest gift in the offering’s 118-year history.

After the books closed May 31, the final tally hit $150,178,098.06, an 8.9 percent increase over last year’s $137.9 million. Southern Baptists last exceeded their goal three years ago by giving more than $136.2 million to the 2003 offering after missionary appointments lagged (this was why we were delayed) because of insufficient funds.

The offering supports the work of more than 5,100 missionaries across the globe. This year’s gift is expected to have a notable impact on the number of personnel being sent to the field. Board leaders anticipate sending 200 extra missionaries over the next two years, in addition to the normal appointment numbers.

“Because we are a missionary-sending organization, the number of missionaries we are able to send is directly related to the gifts we receive from Southern Baptists through the Cooperative Program and the Lottie Moon Christmas Offering,” said Jerry Rankin, president of the International Mission Board.

“Not only will this unprecedented amount enable us to send more missionaries, it demonstrates the heart of Southern Baptists for missions and the high priority they give to reaching a lost world.

“More unreached people groups will have access to the Gospel, more people will be won and baptized, more churches planted and leaders discipled and trained around the world because of such a generous level of giving.”

Rankin credited Woman’s Missionary Union’s support and loyal friendship with contributing to the offering’s success.

“We are grateful for the partnership with WMU and their conscientious efforts in sponsoring and promoting the offering, as well as the personal sacrifice that gifts to the LMCO reflect in individuals throughout the convention.”

Wanda Lee, executive director/treasurer of national WMU, added her appreciation to faithful support of Southern Baptists.

“Support for international missionaries is critical, and we are so grateful to the men and women, boys and girls, who are a part of what God is doing around the world by supporting international missionaries through the Lottie Moon Christmas Offering,” Lee said.

“When WMU sets the [Lottie Moon Christmas Offering] goal each year, we recognize that it can only be attained when believers prayerfully consider the need and give sacrificially so that others may hear the name of Jesus.”

Since the offering began in 1888, the total amount received through 2006 has exceeded $2.8 billion.

GIVING LEADS TO MORE GOING

David Steverson, IMB treasurer and vice president for finance, announced at a May trustee meeting that if early projections held up, the board would be able to send an extra 200 missionaries to the field. Now, the question is whether enough Southern Baptists will step forward to accept God’s call to missions, he said.

“We are grateful to the Lord for the tremendous blessing of this record offering given through Southern Baptists,” Steverson said.

“Pray to the Lord of the harvest to call out those who will go and proclaim His message throughout the world.”

Last year, the board reported that 104 new people groups were engaged with the Gospel, 23,486 churches were started and 475,072 people were baptized.

“Thank you, Southern Baptists, for stepping up to the challenge of global evangelization and funding the highest Lottie Moon offering in missions history,” said Gordon Fort, vice president for overseas operations.

“As a result we will be taking new initiatives to engage unreached people groups and will have the financial resources to increase our capacity to send more missionaries to the front lines.”

To learn more about the Lottie Moon Christmas Offering for International Missions, visit imb.org/main/give or call (800) 999-3113.

Bethany's Ready to Pack

2007-06-05T20:37:00.000+02:00

This morning Bethany told her mother that she had packed her clothes and was ready to go to Nanny's house - that is Jody's mom. We went into her room and found her clothes on her bed!!

Sixteen more days!!

T Minus 21 Days

2007-05-31T07:42:00.000+02:00

Well, we are 21 days from boarding 'the big airplane' - as Bethany now says 50 times a day - to head back to the States. Everyone is pretty excited. We have about 12 suitcases packed already. Although they are not up to the 50 lb limit - they are getting full. I think we are bringing back about '2 weeks' worth of clothes for everyone - looking to hit all the sales in the next 6 months. I am not sure how many bags we'll be able to bring back. The Board allowed an extra piece for everyone and one for the family - so we came over with 16 bags. I don't know if they will make the same allowance - if not we won't have as many.

Josiah and Caleb have 2 weeks of school left. They get out for a long weekend the weekend that we leave here. We are going to leave and spend a couple of days in Johannesburg before we leave. I will finish with Andy tomorrow - he has a cumulative History test and just a regular math test.

One of the saddest parts about leaving is saying good-bye to Dale and Ann Beighle. They live just 3 doors down from us and have been like grand parents. They have been on the field for the last 32 years and they are going on home to Kentucky in August. It's not going to be pleasant to return here and not have them here. However, there is another couple with another organization that should take their place and they have some children the same age as ours. So it is not all bad. We also have some other people that will be coming in January and June of next year - so that will be good also.

I am excited about returning to South Africa because I see all the possibilities. When we came here, there was so much uncertainty about everything. But now I see, just a glimpse of what can happen.

Here is our speaking schedule thus far.

July 23-30: Richmond,VA
August 1: OHBC - FLC - Longview, TX
August 12: Onion Creek Baptist Church - Austin, TX (AM)
August 12: FBC, Sequin, TX (PM)
August 17-21: Immanuel BC, Ridgecrest, CA
September 1-3: FBC, Stonewall, OK
September 26-29: Missions Conference, FBC, Fairfield,TX
October 13-18: Missions Celebration, FBC, Hot Springs, AR
November 8-11: Missions Conference, North Central BaptistAssociation, Loves Park, Illinois
December 3: Oakland Heights Baptist Church, Longview, TX

I am in contact with several churches in Oklahoma finalizing other speaking engagements.

We sent out some prayer requests a couple of weeks ago asking prayer for someone to stay in our house. Within 3 days, the Lord answered our prayer and we found someone to stay in the house while we are gone. We are so thankful for what the Lord continues to do. It was important in our morning family devotions to allow the boys to see this answer to prayer.

I will share later our travel itinerary when we come home.

Mega April Update

2007-04-22T19:18:00.000+02:00

Well, it seems like a long time since we have given our last update. We have put on the kilometers in the last couple of weeks in a trip to Jo-burg,

Kenya

, and our AMTM meeting in Rustenburg. Jody and Melody are to leave next Tuesday to go to a CESA region women’s meeting. Can you imagine the talking (noise)?!?!?! Anyway, we’ll start where we left off and fill you in on the things that have happened.

Extension 39 - We have had a good couple of weeks visiting in the area. We showed the JESUS film the last week in March. There were probably about 150 – 200 that walked to, stood around, watched and then left. It looked like 100 stayed for the challenge and 35-40 prayed a prayer of repentance. It is hard to say how many were sincere, but it is not my job to judge that. We also have seen about 7 come to Christ during our impromptu services during our visitation time. Those that we visited came out, we sang, Moruti (pastor) Ezekiel gave a challenging devotion and some prayed a sinners prayer. We are working on follow-up and I am praying that we have some kind of regular group meeting before we leave.

First Termer’s Retreat – The first week in April we spent a week in Nairobi, Kenya, at a retreat for those missionaries that are in their first term of service with the IMB. We arrived on Monday and left of Friday. Many families arrived early or stayed after the retreat to do some sightseeing and safari-ing on top of Mt. Kilimanjaro. I really wanted to do the same, but with 2 little girls, we didn’t think we would have enjoyed our time. The retreat itself was just about meeting the other missionaries and each telling their stories of service in their first term. There were some high highs and some low lows. Please understand that we are people too and we have our spiritual highs and lows. Missionaries are not in special class of Christianity. Unfortunately, the only part of Kenya that I saw was what was experienced on the bus to and from the airport – believe me, that was an experience. You think it's bad driving where you live!

AMTM – stands for Annual Missionary Training Meeting. This year we only met 2 hours away. This is in contrast to the previous 3 times that we were 9 hours away. Our training this year was called T4T – meaning Training for Trainers. The basis of the training is 2 Timothy 2.2. “And the things that you have heard from me in the presence of many witnesses, commit these to faithful men who will be able to teach others also.” It is not just blind witnessing and teaching, but everything has the direction not just to reach people, but to teach them to reach others. In this verse, there are 5 generations – Barnabas, Paul, Timothy, faithful men, and others. I wish we would have gotten this model a year ago – I am excited about this concept and process and look forward to teaching it when we return next year. I may try to get in a couple of lessons with a couple of people that I know.

Dennis – I have had the opportunity to preach in many different churches in the last several weeks. I have also been teaching about 30 teachers and leaders the last Tuesday of the month about leading a dynamic small group. I will spend the next several weeks while I am in the various church saying ‘Good-bye.’ It is our intention to return, but God may reveal some different plans to us while we are in the States. I am not looking for any and I not asking for any – I am just planning to return.

The Boys- Josiah and Caleb are out the entire month of April and the first 7 days of May for there term break. What a break. They will only attend about 5 ½ weeks of the second term before we leave.

This year Josiah played cricket, swimming, and is in the process of learning to play Chess. He swam in one swimming meet – mentioned earlier in another blog entry. He also played on the Cricket team for his age group. He is quite the little athlete and wants to play everything,

Caleb played mini-cricket and swimming. These are just introductory in nature. He learned the basics in hitting, bowling (pitching) and fielding. They didn’t play any games as this was for many of them their first time to play cricket. He also was involved in swimming – basically it was swimming lessons – the first couple days were shaky, but by the end of the term he was almost swimming. He continues to amaze us at his drawings. He saw the Disney cartoon, Robin Hood, and immediately after watching it drew a picture of Robin Hood with detail in his costume and the trees.

Andy is trying to finish 6^th grade before we leave. School is a challenge for him and for us as we try to teach him so that he will be ready for his friends in Longview in the 7^th grade. His favorite part of school is his 10 o’clock break and being done. He continues to take lessons and play tennis. We got him an MP3 player for Christmas and likes to listen to music that I don’t necessarily care for. He was riding with me on an errand and he asked me how old I was when I started to date. Boy, I wasn’t ready for that one – I have so much experience to draw from!!?!?!?

The Girls – Bethany is growing taller, and is as tall as some four year olds! She continues to increase her vocabulary, and has figured out how to get her brothers in trouble! Her favorite song is “Dem Bones”, which is on a DVD her aunt sent her. She’s looking forward to going to Nannie’s “to buy shoes.” (She’s definitely her mother’s daughter!)

Melody is six months old! She has four teeth, and is working on two more. She has started scooting around and can pretty much get herself moving. I think she will be mobile before too much longer. She’s a wonderful, precious gift from God, and we all love her lots!

Jody – Hello everyone! I just wanted to tell you what has happened since we came back from our annual training meeting. Part of our training included telling “our stories” of what Jesus has done in our own lives. It’s basically telling your testimony, but there is some follow-up that goes along with it as well. Anyway, I decided to tell my story out in the village I’ve been working in. I did that on Friday, as well as my friend who goes with me. I then asked if anyone had a story with Jesus who would like to share, and two women came in front of the group, and told about accepting Christ! I was very excited to hear these testimonies!

Please pray for these women, and for the rest who were too afraid or nervous to share with the group. One of the ladies who told her story has been forced by her husband to join his church which is not a Christian church. She was very bold, however, in saying that she realized she needed to share the Gospel wherever she went, including this church. Well, I hope all of you are well. We will be back in the USA soon! We are all very excited about this. Please also pray that we will finish out our first term well, and be able to see fruit when we return.

Prayer Requests

-- The work in the village of Moshawane where Jody goes

--The work in Extension 39

-- Saying good “Good-byes’ to the churches

-- Someone to stay in our house for 6 months when we are stateside

-- Finishing well!!

We got some hail and it was still hot so it made everything start to steam. We got a good quarter of an inch - it covered the grass just briefly - almost a white Christmas in April!!

Caleb's Turns "7"

2007-03-24T21:09:00.000+02:00

Caleb turned 7 years old today - this is his fourth birthday in Africa. He had his 4th birthday just 2 days after we arrived in South Africa. What a joy it has been these last 7 years to be his father. He has an incredible imagination and he keeps us laughing with his comments and "amazing-laughter" with the things that he comes up with and the math that he does in his head - especially related to money.

He received some 'How to draw' books from Jody's parents and spent about an hour and a half this afternoon drawing this. This scanned picture doesn't do it justice. We were amazed - this in free hand, not traced.

We asked him what he wanted for his birthday - since we'll be home in 3 months - we asked him if he wanted birthday here or to wait and buy some things in the States - he wanted a little of both. So we bought him some 'riding gloves' for his bicycle, some Hot Wheels, a water gun and gave him some cash - about $80 from us and various grandma's, aunts and uncles.

This is a coloring/story book that he received from my mom - he said that he was going to like coloring all those pictures.

He just opened a 'mega-water gun' . He was pumped about that. He finally had something that his brothers didn't have and he knows how to use it.

(Eighty-eight)

My Friend, Mark

2007-03-08T21:58:00.000+02:00

My good friend Mark Stephens went home to be with the Lord Sunday night. After cycling 35 miles on Saturday and preaching on Sunday, he was watching TV with his wife and suffered an apparent heart attack. His wife called 911, Fire and Rescue came, and he was pronounced dead upon arrival at the hospital. He leaves behind his wife, and 3 girls of 15,13, and 10.

Mark and I spent the last year of seminary together riding in a car 65 minutes to and from Mid-America Baptist Theological Seminary. Spending that much time together, we bonded like brothers. I have never had a relationship like that. Jody couldn’t believe it sometimes as Mark would drop me off, drive to his house 15 minutes away, and call me on the phone. He called his 3 years, pastoring in Arkansas, “exile” as he longed to get back to his home state of Florida.

Mark was a University of Florida Gator graduate and fan. I have never seen a fan like Mark. Each year he would receive the Florida Gator Football Press Guide – the book that has all the players, stats, and information that you would ever want to know. He kept that book by his chair and would reference it during the game. Watching a game with him was fun. I know of one time when the Gators were not shown in Arkansas that his father called him, long-distance, and held his receiver up to the TV and Mark listened to the second half on the telephone. He spent 3 football seasons away from Florida and I remember him telling me that all 3 years Florida beat Peyton Manning’s Tennessee Volunteers. Mark could hardly wait to get to seminary that next Tuesday after those victories.

Mark and I went to the Southern Baptist Convention in Salt Lake City and we roomed together. We had a blast. At the time, he had only 2 girls and we had Andy and Josiah was just a baby. We made it a point to go around the booths and get 2 or 3 of everything that they were giving away – pens, stickers, notepads – so that we could give them to the kids when we returned home. He was almost obsessive about it. But that was Mark.

We graduated Seminary together and traffic caused me to miss the Senior group picture. I arrived just after they had all dispersed. He told me that he had saved a spot right next to him as long as he could. He tried unsuccessfully to stall, knowing that I was coming. In choosing our graduation rings – they were identical except for our name imprinted on the inside. We would touch them together and say “Wonder Twin powers activate …in form of a…” Do you remember that from the Super Friends?

He was presently working for the Florida Baptist State Convention. He was Director of Theological Education by Extension. He was working on me coming to his home church to speak when we are home for Stateside Assignment.

It was my privilege to call Mark my friend. He gave me my preaching Bible and I really don’t know if there has ever of time that I didn’t pick it up without thinking of him. My grief is not that he is gone, but with the family that is left behind. I don’t even want to imagine what they are feeling. I don’t question the wisdom of God, I don’t understand it in situations like this; He has been too good in the past not to trust Him in times of grief and sorrow. I know that we will see each other again. Until that time -

I will miss my friend, Mark.

Josiah Mauled by Tiger

2007-02-25T19:55:00.000+02:00

Josiah was mauled by a tiger early Sunday morning as he and his brother Andy were both in the cage of two ferocious tigers. They were invited in as the tigers were being fed. As the one of the tigers was eating and Josiah was distracted, the other tiger attacked and mauled Josiah's leg. As the picture reveals, Josiah was attacked by a 3-month old tiger cub.

We were at a the Wawiel Park Holiday Resort just outside of Stillfontien, 15 kilometers from Klerksdorp. We were having a S.A. Tswana Team meeting. One of the benefits of the park was that there were several water slides and pools to swim in. They also had a animal park that contained 3 male lions. I was about 8 feet from the largest lion and it was incredible. His front shoulder came up to my hip and he was about 5 feet long.

Andy and Josiah going down one of the big slides together.

Caleb has just begun to get comfortable with water - he is learning to swim at school. I had to go with him the first two times, but this last week I was unable to be there with him and he was ok with it.

Bethany had fun also. She is getting comfortable with the water herself.

What needs to be said?

This is what her hair looks like after being up in rubber bands and berets for 2 days.

(one sixteen)

Josiah's Swim Meet

2007-02-22T08:49:00.000+02:00

Josiah was chosen for the Swimming Team this year at ISSA. Yesterday was his first Swim Meet at St. Konrad's School in Klerksdorp - about 2 hours east of Mmabatho. He competed in every stroke. He did very well considering he only learned to dive last year. He swam in 7 races. He enjoys all the sports that he plays. He also is playing cricket, he joined the Chess Club this year, and is learning to play the clarinet. He loves school.

(One nineteen)

The Week in Review in Pictures

2007-02-17T15:32:00.000+02:00

Who is who? Well, the top one is Melody a couple of days ago and the bottom one is Bethany two years ago - They were taken when they were about the same age wearing the same dress !!

The little darling has learned to roll over and is now looking around. She doesn't yet know what to do.

We had a cool snap this week and it was down in the 50's in the morning. It was very pleasant. I think Jody put this on not becuase it was that cold, but that she just looked cute.

Again, you can tell by the long jammies that it was cool, usually she sleeps in a onesie and some socks. Bethany was being a nice sister and wanted Melody to wear her sunglasses.

This Extension 39. This is where we have starting visiting and witnessing. We will start a Bible study - that being the embryonic start of a church. There are going to be about 2500 of these houses. The are 3 room houses - about 600 sq. ft. They have running water, but no electricity, yet.

(124)

February Update

2007-02-10T21:36:00.000+02:00

Well, it is almost the middle of February before we get this update off. God is so good and again I am learning that things happen in His perfect timing. Things are off and running in Extension 39. This is the area of about 2500, 3-room houses – probably 600 sq. ft. each. Now, that is not much for 2 or 3 people, but for some it more than what they had previous. These are cement floor, brick wall, metal-tile roof houses. They do have running water, but not electricity, yet. It is necessary to say that it has running water because there are a lot of houses or dwelling places still in South Africa that do not have running water much less indoor plumbing. They have to get water each and every day. However, they should get electricity in the next couple of months.

This Monday will start the first night of visitation in that area. I have a young, untrained pastor that lives in this area. He was in an accident a couple of years ago and receives some kind of pension from the government. Apparently, it is enough to live on because he can devote his time to this church plant. The ‘mother’ church and I will be pairing him with a retired pastor that is not yet retired. So, this last Monday, five of us meet together just to pray and dedicate this work to the glory of God. It is so refreshing to see them see the need and take the lead. I am just a resource for them to use as they need me.

This last weekend, Jody and I were a part of a “Lead Like Jesus” training weekend. It was nice to be a student instead of the teacher. We learned some valuable concepts relating to leadership and being a servant and encourager and not just a leader that tells everyone else what to do. I don’t think that is a leader, but it is a concept that many people have.

My calendar is filling up fast for these last four months here. Of the 6 Sunday’s this year, counting tomorrow, I will have preached 4 on of them. That looks to be like the rest of our time here along with a couple of seminars, weekly leadership training times, preaching a couple of times at the International School on Sunday evenings, and a weekly Bible study at the Hotel School (Vo-Tech). These young people are eager to learn.

Our calendar for our time in the States is filling up fast also. If you desire for us to come to your church, let me encourage you to get in contact with us. I don’t want to presume on any invitation. We look forward to seeing you when we come – in 131 days – if I was counting!!!

Hello everyone! – Jody here - It’s been so long since I’ve written anything in the newsletter! I first of all want to say thank you to all the churches that sent boxes for my little Christmas stocking project. Everything went off great! The people were so thankful and excited to receive the stockings. It was fun to see their faces. I think Dennis has told you thank you, but I wanted to add mine as well.

We are busy here trying to get things in order before we return to the States. I am still going to the same village. I’ve been trying something new in the last couple of weeks that I hope will help the ministry continue even after we leave. I’m teaching the women the story first, and then we have them teach the children. We have some ladies in the group who have no trouble at all teaching the children. It has really been exciting to watch.

The lady whose house we meet in is expecting a baby in March so we will continue until then. Culturally, only certain people are allowed in someone’s house after the birth of a baby until the baby is about three months old. We will probably continue to visit out there, but our Storying class will end when Maboka has her baby. Please pray for her. Pray also that we will be able to have time to tell all the stories that God wants us to before we have to stop.

The kids are doing great. Melody is growing so fast. She has started rolling over and laughing out loud a little. Bethany is a little live wire who loves her baby sister and her big brothers. She likes to boss the boys around. Caleb is adjusting well to his new class at school. He’s not real detailed about what he does at school each day, but aren’t most kids like that? Josiah is doing well also. He started clarinet lessons this week. Don’t ask me how he chose the clarinet, but we let him choose what he wanted to play, and that was it! He had a cricket match today. He enjoys all the sporting activities that he gets to be a part of at school. Andy is doing well in his home schooling. He has started tennis lessons again with a new teacher. He seems to enjoy it.

I hope each of you has a beautiful, wonderful day. I love you all, and can’t wait to see as many of your faces that I can.

First Day of School

2007-01-24T10:25:00.000+02:00

Josiah and Caleb finally went back to school. They have been out since December 6^th. That is an extremely long Christmas/Summer break. Yes, it is summer here and it is hot. It was 88 degrees in our bedroom last night – at 8:30 pm.

Caleb started grade 1 and Josiah is in grade 4. They both enjoyed their first day. Caleb was disappointed that he didn’t have any homework on the first day. I asked Josiah how his first day of school was and he replied, “Perfect!” They usually promote the classes together with the same people in the same classes – they didn’t this year. I thought he would be disappointed that he didn’t get in the same class with his best friend, but he seemed to be ok with it. We are home schooling Andy and he started a couple of weeks ago. We want to finish up with him around the first of June so that we can concentrate on packing and doing the stuff we need to finish before we leave on June 21.

And of course, the other pictures are of Bethany and Melody from Sunday - can't leave them out!!!

Just another Sunday in Mmabatho.

2007-01-14T21:40:00.000+02:00

I had the opportunity to preach at 2 different locations today. My first preaching station was just down the road from our house at Calvary Baptist Church.

I preached from Luke chapter 9 where Jesus talks about commitment and being his disciple. This is the church where we attend if I am not preaching anywhere on Sunday. It is also walking distant for Jody and the kids if I am away.

My second opportunity was right after the first. I preached the 11:00 service at Calvary and then I went to Christ the Lord Ministries church and preached from Acts chapter 2. I showed them in the last seven verses of the chapter five characteristics of a growing church. Their preacher, Million Mardenzegwa, has become a great friend. I see him at least once a week, if not more. He asked me on Thursday if I wanted to preach. I told him that I was already at Calvary. He said it didn’t matter – they would wait for me. I got there about 12:20 and they sang for about another 10 minutes. I got into the pulpit and finished by 1:30. Andy was with me and he took the pictures today. When I got home I was able to watch the Colts-Ravens game that was played yesterday afternoon. It was almost like a normal Sunday – Sunday school, preaching, lunch, watch a football game, take a nap – unfortunately I missed out on the nap. Oh well, God is good!!!

The rest of the pictures are just extras – good extras.

Just Some Pictures

2007-01-06T09:05:00.000+02:00

January Update

2007-01-06T08:46:00.000+02:00

Greetings in the name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. What an incredible blessing it is to serve Him. I have no idea why He chose me, but I am so glad that He did.

We rang in the New Year in Johannesburg this year at our annual Prayer Retreat. At 10:00 pm, it was midnight in Nairobi, Kenya, so we counted down and rang in the New Year 2 hours early. We said good night and went to our rooms and went to bed – that’s what we did – when you have 5 kids, things tend to change a little bit. When we awoke in the morning, we turned the TV on to CNN International and they were just counting down to the New Year in the Central Time Zone. We had eaten breakfast and were packing when the New Year came to those of you on the West Coast.

We had a good Christmas. The boys awoke at about 5:00 am. We got up and got everything ready. We got the boys bicycles for Christmas and they could smell the rubber tires throughout the house. They enjoyed Christmas. Bethany awoke at about 5:30. She had a fun time opening her presents. Every time we say something about Christmas, she smiles and says ‘presents’ and wants to open something. We had some good friends come from Francistown, Botswana, that evening and spend a couple of days with us before we left for Prayer Retreat.

We have about 5 and a half months before we head Stateside for about 6 months. In fact, a year from today we return from the States to be right back here. This next year is going to fly by. Some of you have already contacted me about speaking in your church, I would encourage you to get in contact with me as soon as possible if you would like for us to come and visit you and your church in some capacity. With all our other activities, our calendar will fill up quickly.

I have had several good meetings with some national pastors concerning our time left here before we leave. Our work in Extension 39 looks very promising. Tshwaro, the young pastor, has moved into his house in Ex 39. We now have a home to work from in that new area. I also talked with Ben Poo and he has an old man in his church with pastoral experience that is on pension, but he knows that God is not finished with him. He is interested with the work in Ex 39. I would ask you to pray for this situation – that we would be sensitive to God’s moving and His direction. I want to see what God is doing and join Him in His work.

Jody was able to distribute some Christmas stockings out in Moshawane village. After being absent from the village for the last 3 months, she was welcomed back with open arms. We took the boys with us and they were just as excited as handing the stockings out as the kids and ladies were in receiving them. Pray for Jody as she tries to discern the Lord direction in that village. She doesn’t know whether to continue there or move to a different area.

Josiah and Caleb start school on the 23^rd of January – still 2 ½ weeks away. We went shopping for school supplies and uniforms. Last year, Caleb didn’t have to wear a uniform to school, but this year he does. He wasn’t too excited about his gray socks that go to his knees. Pictures will follow in about 3 weeks. Andy will start his schooling next Monday. We have to work hard with him to finish 6^th grade so that he will be able to enter 7^th grade this coming September in Longview, Texas. I have been teaching him Math, Science and History and Jody has the rest of the subjects. We try to get started around 7:40 and I finish at about 9:00. He then has an hour to finish any class/homework from me – takes a break from 10 to 10:30 and then finishes the day with Jody. I am free then from about 9:00 in the morning to do my work and in the evenings and things happen.

Bethany is talking up a storm. She is like a tape recorder – she is repeating everything the boys are saying – good and bad. So this is not always good. We had to correct her from saying ‘tupid-head’. Melody is looking around and is now awake 5 hours a say instead of 2!

Thanks for remembering us in your prayers. We cannot and would not want to do this without your prayer support and prayer cover. I have realized that there is some incredible spiritual warfare going on over here that I have not seen before. We look forward to seeing you this summer and fall.

Happy Thanksgiving

2006-11-25T21:31:00.000+02:00

Now, you may be thinking that this is 2 days late. You are kind of correct. Those of you in the USA celebrated or observed Thanksgiving on Thursday of this week. You remember – the day the Dallas Cowboys played and won – beat the Tampa Bay Bucs. Unfortunately, I was unable to see the game and they did not show SportsCenter on Friday so I could not see any of Tony Romo’s five passing touchdowns – the first Cowboy quarterback to do that at Texas Stadium.

Anyway, over here in South Africa, Thursday was just the fourth day of the work week. Today, we all met at the Beighle’s and celebrated Thanksgiving. There were about 27 missionaries and several friends. The Beighle’s have hosted Thanksgiving for years and this was there last one as they retire next year enjoying 31 years on the field. We had a wonderful meal and a lot of good fellowship. It wasn’t the same as being home, but it was the next best thing to being there – even though it was in the low 90’s. I looked at the thermomether in my bedroom this evening – it read 89 degrees – but I am thankful.

I Am Thankful.....

...for the taxes that I pay because it means that I am employed.

...for the mess to clean after a party because it means I have been surrounded by friends.

...for the clothes that fit a little too snug because it means I have enough to eat.

...for my shadow who watches me work because it means I am out in the sunshine.

...for a lawn that needs mowing, windows that need cleaning and gutters that need fixing because it means I have a home.

...for all the complaining I hear about the government because it means we have freedom of speech.

...for the spot I find at the far end of the parking lot because it means I am capable of walking.

...for the lady behind me in church who sings off key because it means that I can hear.

...for the piles of laundry and ironing because it means I have clothes to wear.

...for weariness and aching muscles at the end of the day because it means I have been productive.

...for the alarm that goes off in the early morning hours because it means that I am alive.