Staying Connected

Jennifer and I have been extremely blessed by our sponsoring congregation, Eastside church of Christ (Colorado Springs, CO). Yesterday they had their annual "Missions Sunday". This is a day when the mission works that they are supporting around the globe are really promoted and given the spotlight. They usually host an auction to raise money for mission efforts on this day. They sell all kinds of different items, most of which come from the countries where they are supporting a missionary family.

For the last 2 years this has been a great way for us to stay connected with Eastside. Last year they called us in the middle of the mission's worship service! One of the elders asked us some questions about our work in Porto Alegre and then he prayed over us - through the phone! It was really encouraging to us.

In yesterday's service they called me and another missionary (medical) that they support in Guatemala. Instead of asking us questions, Eastside gave us an opportunity to help lead the service. I was asked to lead the Lord's Supper over the phone. From what I have heard it went over really well. They had a picture of me and Jennifer and Elisa on the projection screen while I was talking and leading the prayers. I hung up my cell phone feeling a lot of love. I was encouraged by the Lord's ability to keep his family connected. Our bond is stronger than good phone service. We share the same grace and are washed in the same blood. Nothing can break that bond!

I heard that a couple of suggestions were made to do a video conference next year! Each year has gotten better, so I wouldn't be surprised. We'll just have to wait and see!

I want to encourage all of you who read this to try to do something creative like this to lift spirits of the missionaries that you or your church family are supporting. Do something to stay connected. You won't regret it.