God is faithful. That is a wonderful reality that I am learning to appreciate more and more. I can count on Him. He doesn't shirk or swerve from fulfilling His job - and He gives His all to do it. God calls us to be that way, too. We are limited and sometimes that seems like reason enough not to try. After all, what can I do with 30 minutes, $10, or an extra coat in my closet? They might not be much compared to the needs around me - but am I faithful with that little? Have I committed each minute, each dollar, each personal belonging to God's service? "He that is faithful in that which is least," the Master said, "is faithful also in much." (Luke 16:10)
The end of this week finds the building project in Makindu gaining altitude. "The mason up there is truly under God's care," Lawrence writes. He praises God that one end of the structure is up to roofing level, at least.
His son, Alvin (center), shows one of their visitors around.
Using the resources and time committed to them, the vision for the Bible Center is slowly becoming a visible reality. "We have now run out of funds, though some of the building material is
still there," the brother says. When the Lord provides, the work will go on - patiently, faithfully toward the goal. Meanwhile, the maize and peas are growing well, praise the Lord!
Am I determined to be faithful, even if it doesn't seem to make much of a difference? Maybe another brick won't complete the wall, but it is needed. If we only have one talent, it is not meant to be buried and hoarded selfishly. It was entrusted us for a purpose. (Matthew 25:14-30) May we live to reflect and rejoice in God's faithfulness!
Brick upon brick. Stone upon stone. Life is full of little choices and actions, each building upon the last. What does the heavenly view of our life building look like? Are we prepared for the storms -- or avoiding the hard work of putting God first in every area of life?
Brother Lawrence is thankful to report that the building is now to the "ring-to" level. "We fix a concrete ring to the top of the wall so
that the building can be strong and not shaken if a tremor occurs or
strong winds blow. Then we will build on top of the ring
about five or so courses and then roof it. By the end of this week, we
will be ready for the roofing. Please, ask the saints to pray more
ardently for this work. We are praying that the building does not stall,
and that we be able to finish the roofing before the Christmas holidays
beginning around the 21st of December."
The spiritual work has been building up as well. This week the Lord gave brother Lawrence opportunity to share about the changing power of salvation with several young people. It encouraged him to see their faces light up with interest and joy. Please pray that they will build upon what they've heard and seek the Lord for themselves.
The work on the residential structure also has attracted the notice of some leaders in the town, which gave opportunities to testify of what God is doing. "It was so unexpected," the minister said, "but such a blessing to see some responding to the the truth of salvation. Praise the Lord."
With the famine continuing, the saints of Makindu have been thankful for the Lord's mercy that no one has died of starvation. The fall rains have brought hope with crops of corn and cassava beginning to grow. Several people have suffered from sickness recently, but God has graciously brought relief and encouragement to those who have put their trust in Him. Praise God that He is able to build us up through every adversity!
"But ye, beloved, building up yourselves on your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Ghost, keep yourselves in the love of God, looking for the mercy of Lord Jesus Christ unto eternal life." Jude 20-21
What are we preparing for? In this busy time of year with winter holidays and family gatherings, there is plenty to do and get ready for. Our schedules fill up. Our finances drain low. But why? What purpose drives us?
I was reading today about a voice that once cried in the wilderness: "Prepare the way of the Lord, make His paths straight!" (Matt. 3:3) How have we been responding to that call? Are we ready to acknowledge that One greater than all our best efforts and ideals has come, and that He is seeking entrance in our lives? Are our preparations cluttering the path - or clearing it for God to have His way? It is a sober thought.
We prepare for anticipated blessing, don't we? The work on the residential building at the Center in Makindu is progressing steadily, spurred by the desire to have a place for visitors to stay while attending meetings. Here laborers work on the interior walls:
Lawrence reports: The walls have gone up about five feet now, but it is a wonderful blessing. Glory to God.
Certainly God's preparations far exceed what we can do. Brother Lawrence shares: We are praising the Dear Master for His wonderful gracious works around
here. We have had rains and the area is starting to look green and very
beautiful. It coincides with the "Christmas" season here when many talk
of changing their lives anew. The new green leaves remind many of
the new birth...... Oh, that God would be given His due right to change
and reign in each heart!
The children are active in their free time from school and are getting
instructed in Christianity in the center. It is simply wonderful, and
the second time it has been done around the center. Glory, glory to God!
We look forward to His glorifying Himself a lot more. Praise the Lord.
As the busyness of the season fills our time and attention, let us not forget that it was a simple stable and faithful shepherds that received Christ first. God isn't looking for the great and accomplished, but the yielding hearts. Are we prepared to receive Him?
