Improvements Coming - Praise the Lord!

        I just experienced a sweet celebration last night with a sister ministry, Samaritan Inn Ministry, praising and thanking God for a year of successful ministry and His provision when the director, Debbie Jones, had to step out in faith because the need was so immediate.  And in days just prior, I spent time in conference with fellow ministry center directors across the state and then with fellow Mission Service Corps missionaries. - And I am reminded of how blessed I am to have such partners - ministry partners with whom we share praises, prayers, needs, and fresh ideas; prayer partners who are so faithful to lift God's work in prayer; volunteer missionary partners who consistently and faithfully invest time and talents each week; financial partners who give selflessly to the Lord's work at Forest Park Ministry Center.  Each is such a blessing and so vital to the furtherance of Christ's Kingdom work.
        A special thank you to the trustees from the former Forest Park Baptist Church.  There have been so many much needed repairs and improvements at the center, and thanks to their vision and support, these are being accomplished - meaning no more leaky roofs, floors without cracks, better water pressure, safer electrical service, more efficient utility service - thanks so much - and to God be the Glory!
         As I think about the M&M Bible Study, the young families that we are reaching, the life styles and bondage that so many live in, I am reminded of a story that storyteller Jack Day related to us while in conference in Shocco (Jack's version is so entertaining - he is a master storyteller!):
         Jack tells of the years that he and his wife and children lived in Brazil as a missionary family.  They were fascinated by water buffalo that were ridden, used as beasts of burden, and even used by the Brazilian military.  These animals average 1,800 - 2,600 pounds each, are massive and powerful with tremendous horn span.  The interesting thing is this - this massive animal can be tied to a post by its owner using thin strips of leather or nylon, about the size of a shoe lace.  One would expect such an animal to pull against such a flimsy restraint and break free.  THEY NEVER DO.  This is because as infant animals, they are restrained by the same cords.  As babies, they do not possess the strength to break the cords and so give up the struggle.  Interestly, as they mature and strengthen, they do not attempt again; they have given up and are convinced that they cannot break free.
         How like these fascinating creatures are members of the human race.  Whether poverty, abuse, neglect, poor self esteem, or poor choices, we find those every day who have difficulty seeing themselves break free of the bondage that their life has become.  Praise God that through the blood of Jesus, our sin is forgiven and true freedom in Christ is possible.  Please pray for the precious guests who visit Forest Park Ministry Center, that they will realize the unique and loved creation that they are and allow Him to help them to break free and live a life of abundant love in Christ Jesus.