Looking back at my last e-mail about a month ago, I am amazed, encouraged, and blessed by God’s faithfulness! I’m back to full capacity of work and ministry and even able to handle about 90% of the household errands and chores despite my physical limitations. Kayo and Benjamin are also pretty much back to “normal” life. I am busier than before I got sick, with weekly physical therapy sessions across town and intense daily exercise routines at a local gym and our neighborhood gym.
Normally, we spend our summers in the US or Japan visiting loved ones which are very blessed but (honestly) strenuous trips and times. This summer, we will not (unless something drastic changes) be able to visit the USA, as we expected. I’m not sure if my physical therapy and recovery will be complete enough to travel, and the whole family needs some down/flex/free time, etc. etc. Even though we can’t visit in person, we look forward to opportunities to connect online (E-mail/Messenger/Zoom).
Since my last e-mail, I’ve spoken twice at the international church, restarted helping lead Bible studies in the Chinese ministry, done a lot of planning with the men’s ministry team for upgrading the Men’s Ministry, and started working with a tentmaker missionary from the Philippines to develop the in-church evangelism/apologetics/discipleship ministry. After taking a few months off, I’ve restarted researching and developing the outline for a new evangelism/apologetics book for Cambodia and Japan. I’m very excited that Benjamin is joining me in this project! We really enjoy working together. In the coming months I will also resume my activities with Light Times Magazine and True Education School.
Kayo has resumed her work with Precious Women Organization, the women’s ministry at the international church. She also is starting to pursue some online training in Christian counseling, which will strengthen her mentoring of and ministries to Cambodian and international women living in Cambodia. She’ll need extra time to study this summer.
Benjamin finished one round of testing and is preparing for another final round of major international standardized testing. He is planning to do some volunteer work with a local organization or school this summer for some work experience this summer.
Planting Seeds & Expanding Our Mission: Vision for 2025
As we have entered 2025, I am excited to share a new vision for the future! But first, I am so thankful and joyful for all that God has done through our school and eagerly anticipate what He will do next.
Your prayers, generosity, and encouragement have been instrumental in shaping the lives of the children and families we serve. Our vision for 2025 is to continue planting seeds of faith in the hearts of young children, equipping them with God’s truth, and reflecting God’s love to their families and the community that surrounds them. What a blessing it has been to be a part of this together, don’t forget that this is your school too!
God has also placed a new vision on our hearts. We have many parents asking us if their children can continue their education with us; we see the need and truly desire God’s guidance as we pray about this. Our vision is to expand beyond our nursery/preschool and establish a Christian primary and secondary school in Mallorca. This will allow us to continue nurturing these children in faith and education as they grow, equipping them to be future leaders who walk in Christ’s truth. We are also excited to welcome new children as we continue planting seeds of faith to children and families that do not know Him. This is truly a pioneering work as there is no other Christian school in Mallorca and the need for one is great!
What exactly is this Vision for 2025?
Expanding Our Reach – We as a school, are praying for more opportunities to reach children and families with the love of Christ. We believe God is leading us to provide a Christ-centered education that extends beyond preschool. We are praying for the resources, land, and teachers to make this vision of starting a Christian primary and secondary school a reality. Join us in prayer for open doors, provision of resources, and to guide every step for our current school and also for this expansion. If you would like a copy of our project description to learn more, please let me know. I would love to send it your way!
Discipling the Next Generation – Every lesson, song, and prayer at our school is a step in nurturing young hearts for Jesus. Our goal is to help these little ones experience His love and grow in their faith. I would love to share 2 testimonies on how we have seen that happen…
Testimony 1: In February, our theme always revolves around God’s love leading up to Valentine’s Day, and something beautiful happened a few days ago. One of our kids, Matty, usually prefers to play quietly instead of joining Bible reading. For most of the children in our school, reading the Bible at our school is the first time they’ve ever been exposed to God’s Word. So, I never force them to listen—I want their first experience with God’s Word to be positive and loving. But even while playing, I came to discover that Matty is always listening…
When the kids made videos about why they love their parents, Matty surprised me by starting his video with, “I love Jesus.” He continued listing who he loves, like his mommy and daddy, and at the end of the video he says, “And they all love me.” What a sweet surprise that our little student has always been listening and that he knows that Jesus loves him very much! It was a powerful reminder that God’s Word is planting seeds, even when we don’t realize it!!
Testimony 2: A few months ago, we had to say goodbye to one of our students. He learned about Jesus and how to pray here with us. He was moving on to primary school and as we gifted him his own Bible (which he couldn’t believe he was able to take it home) with teary eyes we said our goodbyes. A few minutes after that, he took a moment during free play to pray. When he finished praying, he told me he was asking God to bring him back to visit us soon. His simple, heartfelt prayer reminded me to be open to pray at any time (even if it interrupts my own version of something great like “free play”) and of the depth and sincerity of childlike faith through prayer.
Strengthening Our Team – We pray for wisdom, endurance, and unity among our teachers and staff, that we may serve with joy and passion. May God continue to provide the right people for this mission.
Trusting God for Provision – As we move forward, we rely on God’s provision to sustain and expand this ministry. We believe He will meet every need. If you would like to know more about our school needs, please do not hesitate to contact me!
Pray With Us– “Continue steadfastly in prayer, being watchful in it with thanksgiving.” (Colossians 4:2) Join us in prayer for our school and our future primary and secondary school. We know great things for God all start with prayer, and we only desire God’s will, direction, and wisdom. So join us on the last Thursday of every month to pray! You can scan the QR code to join our WhatsApp group for real time updates and information on the prayer meetings. Thank you for standing with us in prayer. Together we are making an eternal impact, and we are excited to see what God will do in 2025!
Join the Mission– Whether through volunteering, spreading the word, partnering with us, or praying with and for us, your involvement can make a lasting impact!
We know that with God, all things are possible (Matthew 19:26), and we are trusting Him to do immeasurably more than we could ask or imagine (Ephesians 3:20). Thank you for being part of this journey—your prayers and support are building a future rooted in Christ!
Ways You Can Pray: Pray for the children to grow in faith and understanding of God’s love. Pray for the teachers and staff to be strengthened and encouraged. Pray for the Lord to provide one more teacher! Pray for resources and provision to continue and expand to a primary and secondary school. This is a bold step of faith, and we kindly ask for your prayers and support as we are trusting in the Lord for resources, partnerships, and leadership to make it happen. Pray for open doors to reach more families and communities. Pray for the Lord’s strength and wisdom over my life. I need Him more and more each day!
May God bless you abundantly in 2025 as we continue this journey together! If you would like to learn more or get involved, if you have any prayers requests too, please contact me. I would be more than happy to hear from you!!
Valentine’s Day…**If you do not care for love letters, cheesy jokes, or feeling a bit sentimental…you can stop here!** Since it’s Valentines Day very soon, I couldn’t resist…
*For more context on why I would even consider adding a love letter of sorts here, please go back to my last newsletter where I share about “What I’ve learned…as a single missionary living in Spain.”
Dear Jesus
Happy Valentine’s Day!
Can I say that? Can I wish you a happy valentine’s day?! Can I offer you loving but cheesy one-liners like I normally send my nephews on Valentine’s Day too?
One-liners like, “You have a ‘pizza’ of my heart!” (you have all of my heart actually, so not a good one) or “Do you like Star Wars? Because Yoda the only one for me!” (reminds me of Psalm 23:1, “…You are all that I need” … sorry, better stick to the Psalms!)
All [bad] jokes aside, this is a different kind of love letter. At 40-something, I have seen and heard much in life to know that no human love can compare to Yours. So, my heart is overfilled with gratitude…
Thank You, Jesus, for loving me first.
Thank you, for remaining sovereign in my life, and also kind and gentle especially when your sovereignty has meant taking big steps of faith.
Thank you, for loving me perfectly.
Thank you, for showing me what unconditional love looks like.
Thank you, for being my strength when I have been weak (many times).
Thank you, dear Lord, for letting me see Your love through precious little lives every day. What a blessing!
Thank you, for loving me sacrificially, whole heartedly, and willingly.
Thank you, because I know that You see me. And on those lonely nights, you’re there.
Thank you, for always being there!
Thank you for showing me a “through thick and thin” kind of love through my family’s unwavering support.
Thank you, for being You. For being the source of love and all that 1 Corinthians 13 describes and more.
Although, my love for You will never be as perfect as Yours for me, I give You my heart over and over again.
Love, Zully
P.S. Last one… “I’d part the Red Sea just to be with you!” (this one is not… You already did that so I…) Love you!
People First!Thank you to everyone reading our blog and supporting us!
The border area of Mexico is an incredible place to minister! Sometimes we get too caught up in the “ministry” stuff that we are TOO BUSY for people! Our goal and desire for 2025 is to fulfill the second greatest commandment:
“…you shall love your neighbor as yourself.” Matthew 22:39
Picture: Helping a dear friend & recent widow move. Last year was an incredible year in Rosarito’s biggest church! We had hundreds of people visit and had many baptisms each month. However, Claudia and I have found that in a church so full of new visitors and new converts (baby Christians!), it is easy to get overlooked. Our desire is to get to know people, spend time with them and make new friends! Now, while many people want attention from the main pastor and so on, we have discovered that most folks don’t know anyone and may not even have one friend! I believe Jesus wants us to love people with our most valuable resource: our time!
Men’s Discipleship 2025
I restarted my men’s small group in January. We meet every Thursday to review the week’s Bible reading in the Gospel of John. I have met many men in our church patio and through counseling over the past three and a half years and most do not have the great discipline of reading the Bible daily (daily devotions). I will ask men if they would like to learn how to read and study the Bible and most say yes!
The key is to read slower than faster! I have created a 365 year reading plan through the book of John! Yes, you could easily read the whole book in a couple of days, but by slowing down, we have found that God truly speaks and teaches us much more effectively!
Just a few verses a day!
We started this reading plan in the small group in April and I am personally now in chapter 15. Here is an example of my personal reading this morning:
“You are already clean because of the word which I have spoken to you.” John 15:3
The context of this verse is a little while after Jesus washed the feet of the disciples and Peter said, wash ALL of ME! Jesus said that it was not needed since Peter was already clean from Jesus’ words! As I read this verse in John 15:3, I realized that in our community the majority of people put more emphasis on water baptism and church attendance than in reading the Word of God. What an incredible blessing to know that as we read God’s Word, He does a supernatural work in drawing us closer to Him, revealing Himself and transforming our minds!
Women of Worth and Purpose 2025
Claudia leads a bilingual women’s study with one co- leader, 9 table leaders and 2 subs. On Thursday nights the women whether in person or online are coming together to be more equipped to walk in those good works God has preordained for them to walk in thru studying systematically, verse by verse, through the whole counsel of God in a book of the Bible. Praying for the ladies, serving together, and going on mission trips together! This year we have added a Youtube channel including “shorts!” God has even provided a 21 year old to manage the channel and record “shorts” ! How about subscribing? https://youtube.com/@mujeresdevalorypropositobiling?feature=shared
Mission trip to Morelia, Michoacan – February 7-10th
Claudia was invited to travel and teach at a conference this weekend! More to come next time!
Claudia ran into Gab Fruin and Kendra in Morelia…
Biblical Counseling!
As most of you know, Claudia and I oversee the Biblical Counseling area. Counseling people who are struggling is both fulfilling, difficult, frustrating and fruitful! Claudia regularly counsels remotely very successfully I might add!
Even my men’s discipleship group grew out of the need so many men have to grow in their character and habits. Most of us guys are too busy, too proud or too oblivious to request counseling! (Ladies, can I get an amen?) Our goal is to help people receive the mercy, forgiveness and love of God and grow in their relationships with Christ!
People First!
The title of this month’s blog emphasizes the great need to remember why Jesus came to this earth. Most of us can quote John 3:16 “God so LOVED the world, that He gave His only begotten son, that whoever believes in Him would not perish but have everlasting life”. God LOVES the world and so should WE! And that means loving people. How do you show love to people you meet? We meet new people and families every week! This year we are committed to meet, befriend, and connect people to our community. My own mother to this day is lifelong friends with the other young couples she met at their church when they first moved to Claremont in 1969! Picture:Celebrating a birthday with friends! (Elias, Elvia, Claudia, Tina, Flor and Kristy)
Picture:This precious young family moved here from Culiacan a few years ago! We want to help them connect and make friends! (Lizbeth, ALvaro, Matias and Emma)
Here are some family of our dear sister Hortensia! Every week we make new friends!
Constant Challenges!
Working closely with folks and getting involved with people’s lives means great victories but also failures! In our community you will experience a lot of welcoming genuine love. People often seek God in times of personal crisis! We have wept with people as they suffer through overwhelming trials and tragedies. Three years ago, I remember being in our “prayer corner” where people wait for and request prayer. These are some things I was asked to pray for: my children won’t come to church; my son is on drugs; my daughter is suicidal; I have cancer; I was overwhelmed and I couldn’t sleep at night; my daughter has cancer; my son was in a car accident; my partner was just killed in an accident; my nephew was kidnapped… But guess what? OUR GOD is BIG and HE IS GREAT! Remember the promise of Jesus,
“If you ask anything in My name, I will do it.” – John 14:14
While this is not a blank check to get whatever we want, we can be absolutely sure that GOD hears our prayer and will answer! And, believe it or not, most of the time he answers YES! I also remember being so overwhelmed by people’s prayer requests and apparently enormous problems! So the next time I went to the prayer corner to pray, I was ANXIOUS and NERVOUS! I prayed, “Dear Jesus, please! I can’t handle this! Don’t crush me with your people’s burdens! But, Lord, I won’t run away, I am going to pray for them nonetheless!” Guess what happened that Sunday? I remember that person after person said things like,
“Pastor, do you remember me? God healed me!”
“Here is my son who was in that car accident! He is well!”
And many more like those grateful saints! A few months ago when my friend asked me to pray for his nephew, my natural thought was… it’s over for him. But, he told me the nephew was released. I didn’t ask for details. The lady who asked for prayer for her children who didn’t want to go to church… they come now and have friends here! That lady is one of Claudia’s table leaders and her daughter enthusiastically serves as an usher! We have learned to place people’s great needs and prayers at the foot of Jesus! And, by the way, people regularly return to tell us how God answered their prayers!
The Kids!
Poiema experienced a great time of growth and challenge with her new job as a cashier at Cafe de la Fonda in downtown Rosarito! It is not easy to go from a cozy, supportive home to a 40 hour work week and job that starts at 6:30 am! She learned a lot about customer service and working with the public! Not so scary after all! This is one of the ways God provided for her last semester at CBI Peru! She will have left Monday February 3rd!
Ben is doing great and is taking coding classes online and pulling straight A’s!
Cristian continues his medical studies at Universidad Xochicalco in Ensenada. Email me and request their phone numbers so you can send a message of encouragement!
Practicing blood letting….
Lydia and Geoff are currently in Japan for the next few months working as missionaries!
Natalie continues her high school Biology and Physics teaching in Midland Texas… wedding this June on the 28th!
Praise reports:
God has answered ALL our prayer requests from our December blog!
Men’s discipleship started in January and we have added a daily whatsapp message!
Claudia’s bilingual Thursday study now has a Youtube channel! 1000 views for the two “shorts in less than a week!”
God has provided financially for Poiema to return to Peru one last semester! And her renewed US passport arrived just in time!
Prayer Requests:
For men to get serious in the discipleship class and do the daily homework! (Paul)
For four couples who we have counseled who have not been willing to repent and be reconciled. (Paul & pastors)
God’s wisdom and protection over two ladies in abusive relationships. (Claudia)
For God to guide us, as we try to connect new people and families to our church family. (both)
For God to help me be focused and more organized (Paul)
Hortensia and Jesus’ wedding on February 14 and celebration on the 15th. (Paul)
Faithful women & leaders for the Bilingual Women’s study (Claudia)
“Whoever can be trusted with very little can also be trusted with much, and
whoever is dishonest with very little will also be dishonest with much. “Luke 16:10
You just spent 6 weeks in Mexico, where your heart was exposed to the realities of people who have never heard the gospel, you were hearing both good and bad from current missionaries all around the world, and you were intensely involved in day-to-day ministry and outreaches. You became engrossed with the heart wrenching fate that 3.2 billion people may be born, live, and die without ever hearing the Gospel. Then, you come home to leave all, ready to see where God may send you, and He says wait.
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart
and lean not on your own understanding;
in all your ways submit to him,
and he will make your paths straight”Proverbs 3:5-6
Why I am Here
Youth Group Wed. Jan. 29th ( 3 girls came!)
When I came home, I was so expectant that the Lord would speak clearly on the call He gave me at CSOM, and He did. But not how I expected. He started to show me I must be faithful with whatever is in front of me, no matter where I am. It’s easy in a school of people your age all with similar callings to compare. I found myself doing that as people knew where they were called locationally and started going on vision tours and I was home, doing the same things I was doing before.
But God showed me how crucial it is to be faithful with the small things and showed me how big they actually are. I am blessed to serve in our Youth Ministry here at CCSG, where we meet every Wednesday for youth group and Sunday for a youth church service. Lately we have had a small attendance, especially in the number of girls that come. But it’s those moments where even 1 girl comes, that the Lord speaks to me and says, “That is why you are here”. I also am extremely blessed to be on staff at CCSG which means I get to be a little more involved in the behind the scenes of running a church! Here I am growing in a lot of ways, but my job is simply an Administrative Assistant where I assist our Administrative Pastor/Worship Pastor Joel Garcia, as well as do our graphics, bulletins, and a little of our church app. So, until that time comes where I know where the Lord has called me elsewhere, I will be faithful exactly where He has placed me.
Where He has Placed Me
This year’s MTS Class! Ahhh how exciting!
Where else has He placed me? In our Missions Training School (MTS) here at CCSG. I have a culture class about 2x a month on Mondays with Pastor Rob who was a missionary on the field for over 10 Years. And we currently have a Hebrews class Tuesday nights taught by Pastor Trent, and I am loving every second! As well as every Wednesday we all have class together from 1pm-4:30pm and for an hour of it we split up into groups and practice teaching a specific passage from the Bible while getting critiqued by one of our Pastors or leaders! As scary as it is, it’s the best way to grow in Homiletics (Teaching the Bible) and Hermeneutics (Studying the Bible), so I am thankful for it. Sparing you some details.. I just want to say I absolutely LOVE this program. I am so grateful to be intentionally poured into here and have the opportunity to serve consistently in so many areas. I am excited for 2025 and all that God is going to do! Here are a few ways you can further support me in this new year!
Ways to Support
Prayer
I absolutely NEED your prayers as I am seeking the Lord while doing all that He has placed in front of me. I can’t do any of this out of my own strength, and so I ask that you come alongside me in prayer for this next year of MTS and simply serving our King!
Financially
As I mentioned earlier I am unsure of where God has called me to serve locationally. But what I am 100% sure of is He has called me to leave everything and serve Him cross-culturally. I am grateful to be serving here but I am also so excited to see where He will send me. A part of that preparation time includes vision tours. A vision tour is essentially opportunities we are given as MTS students to visit different places ( accompanied by our pastors or leaders and or other students who feel led) and spend a few days or weeks praying over the land and seeing if this is where God has called us. This year there will be a few vision tour opportunities that I am praying over. If you are interested or feel led to help cover the cost of those please click the financial giving button at the end of this newsletter!
Prayer Requests
Youth
• More discipleship opportunities with the girls
• Each youth would have a personal walk with Jesus
• Our Winter Camp this weekend (Feb 7th-10th)
• Me teaching girls winter camp devotional every morning (wisdom)
MTS
• Growth in my teaching class
• I would time manage well
• Financial provision for future vision tours
Life
• Salvation of my family
• I would saturate my life in the Word
• I would diligently seek the Lord on direction
Thank you for taking the time to read this update on all that God is doing in my life! I pray you were encouraged and stirred up to seek Him more and more. If you have any questions or would like to chat further email me and I’d love to talk more! Until then,
“.. seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given
to you as well.”
– Matthew 6:33 SEEK HIM
– Serena Keeler
End of Year Moments in Pictures!!
Youth Christmas Party!Leading worship in Spanish for CC Pedregales(Mexico) Christmas OutreachHalloween OutreachLeading worship for MidweekDiscipleship w/ Youth GirlNew Connection Card!
For unto us a Child is born, Unto us a Son is given; And the government will be upon His shoulder. And His name will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father,Prince of Peace. Isaiah 6:9
Dear Friends and Family,
I am sure by now your New Year is well under way. As I write this we have begun 2025 and as you have done, we have celebrated the end of the year with remembrance of all God had done in 2024 and are now looking forward to what God will do and how we can be used in 2025.
In our last newsletter we were just preparing our Christmas programs so I wanted to share how it all turned out. The Christmas program at Arise Christian Fellowship turned out beautifully. The children and youth really took over most of the service. They performed a variety of 8 different songs, dances and skits to tell the Christmas story and what it means for us. They practiced everyday for 2 weeks. Liana was in every performance and we are so proud of how hard she worked and the commitment she showed. She even got to be the lead in one of the dances and to conduct the small children in singing.
We are so thankful to the Sunday school teachers as well. They worked very hard to teach and choreograph the songs. They came everyday to the church to work with the kids and designed the outfits for the different parts of the program. They also performed a collaboration of Christmas carols. They demonstrated so much patience and love to the children as well as providing the children with something fun and fruitful to invest their time in over the long school holiday. (It’s our summer break here).
The teachers awarded the kids for their hardwork by giving them a Christmas party and gifts.
Liana showed her appreciation for being a part of the show by sharing candy with all the kids and teachers.
The worship team did a beautiful job leading the church in Christmas carols as well in to the heart of worship. I often wish we would sing those beautiful songs more than once a year. My heart was overwhelmed as I sang about the gift of Jesus. They really prepared us for the Christmas message.
For the weeks leading up to Christmas Brian had been sharing each week on the different characters of the Christmas story and their importance. His Christmas message was about Jesus and how His birth was just the beginning of the story of God’s gift to us. He went on to share about Jesus’ purpose in being born and our salvation through His death and resurrection. Truly it taught us the reason for the season.
After the church service we had a meal for everyone who was there. Some of the ladies in the church cooked. We are so thankful for how God multiplied the food. We had planned for 250 people and ended up with 280 children plus the adults. Everyone got something. It was a great time of “swallowship” as Brian and the other pastors always say. We love sharing a meal with everyone because many people in our church are very poor and we do not know if they will have a nice meal for Christmas or not.
Also I believe the fellowship draws us closer together. Our church is not too big and one of the things people always comment on is that they feel like they are part of a family when they are at Arise. For those who we are aware of, that probably would not have any meal on Christmas such as the widows and orphans of the church, we gave out Christmas gifts of rice, maize flour, oil, sugar and soap. We were so blessed to know we would have a nice Christmas at home as a family and it is a blessing to ensure that others will as well. We are very thankful for those of you who gave to make that possible.
For my women’s Bible study and the children who come to that we also had a Christmas party. We have been studying the Names of God, so for the Christmas message I shared on the names from Isaiah 9:6 that are given to the coming Messiah. For the New Year Brian taught a mini series on New Year resolutions and goals we should have as Christians and as a church. I believe not just me but everyone is excited to step out of our comfort zone of 2024 and take steps of faith into whatever God has in store for us in 2025.
Thank you for praying for our family and
for the ministry in Uganda.
In Him,
Brian, Jill, Luke, Laylee, and Liana
PRAYER REQUESTS
We are so thankful for all that the Lord has done in us and for us in 2024. Pray for God’s leading and direction in 2025.
We are thankful for our church family. We are thankful to those who serve and for those who are still learning what it means to follow Jesus. Pray that God would continue to grow the church and raise up a new generation of servants.
We are thankful for the for the many people who pray and support the ministry here.
Pray for Danison and Ester. He leads our ministry team and she is our Sunday School director. As I am writing this I was just informed their 1.5 year old son has passed away. It is heartbreaking.
Pray for the Kanyike family as they continue to serve the Lord in Uganda. Pray for their spiritual life as well as their physical needs.
Pray for Brian as he pastors and leads the ministry team at Arise Christian Fellowship.
Please prayerfully consider becoming part of the Kanyike Family support team.
Sometimes it’s all too easy to get stuck in our own circumstances. Praise the Lord He’s with us. Praise the Lord we have this hope to ground ourselves in the truth when distractions and trials come: “If then you were raised with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ is, sitting at the right hand of God. Set your mind on things above, not on things of the earth. For you died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God. When Christ who is our life appears, then you also will appear with Him in glory,” (Colossians 3:1-4, NKJV). I’m so thankful for His faithfulness to continue to grow me heavenward, to know that He loves me beyond my greatest imagining, that my sins are paid for once and for all, and that He will neither leave me nor forsake me. He is more than able to place us where He wants us, and give us the strength to endure in any circumstance.
December
December was a bit of a whirlwind, but it was a blessing. Things settled down quite a bit after our last semester ended, and it was a nice change of pace and allowed me to prepare and plan for coming back stateside. It was a blessing continuing to draw closer to students. Praise the Lord I’ve been continuing to see my Spanish grow (thank you for Your prayers—the Lord is strengthening me to learn). One highlight before I flew home was a big outreach we did to our community. We called it Dar es Amar (To Give is to Love). People from our church and others donated presents and money for toys where we could wrap presents and prepare lunches for children in need and go out into our community, share the Gospel and practically the love of Jesus for these little ones by giving them a gift with that message of freedom. That they would remember they received something because Jesus loves them. Please keep praying that the Lord would equip us to share well His Gospel for the glory of His name. December 22nd I flew back stateside—I arrived Monday the 23rd around 12pm and I was so excited to see my aunt and go get some In-N-Out. I was so blessed to be able to see my family and spend time with them on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. After a long year it was good to be with loved ones. A final highlight was getting to teach the Young Adults at the Rock the next day. It’s a blessing to see how the Lord is moving and stirring in the hearts of His people to serve Him where they are and to go the nations.
Got to see some good friends at some young adults events… even a current student from CBI Perú.Got some wiring done and backing in for drywall at my family’s house!Getting to spend Christmas Eve with the family!Getting to share at the Rock’s young adults group after Christmas
January
January was a whirlwind and a blessing all at once. I got to see many old friends, make passport appointments, take a family trip, and share at multiple churches. I got to spend a lot of time at my home church—Calvary Chapel the Rock and it was a blessing to see what the Lord has been doing with my church family back in California. There were a lot of little logistical things, meeting up with people to catch up after being on the field for a year, and new relationships made as well. It was a blessing of a time. My weekends were full as well as I shared at Calvary Chapel Willits on the first Sunday of the month and then at the Rock for a missions gathering and dinner the next week. I was so blessed by the opportunities and all of the support from all who came. It was refreshing and bittersweet as my time stateside was coming to an end, but I’m blessed to have the opportunity to represent the Lord on the field and am so thankful to have you partnering with me in prayer and support to take His name to South America and beyond. I’m now officially an SGWM missionary. I got to spend a week down South seeing some old friends, and getting to meet with the staff at Saving Grace to go over different protocols, share with their missions students, and enjoy some time with them all. In the midst of the busyness, the Lord brought refreshment. I pray the Lord would refresh your hearts for the refreshment you’ve been for me.
Getting lunch after sharing at Calvary Willits with some old friends from when I was just beginning to follow Jesus.Passport renewal…Getting prayed over at the Perú Mission’s update at the RockGetting to hang out at a Saving Grace home fellowship groupI’ve got a new prayer card!
I got back to Trujillo at 9:45am Jan. 21st and at the same time as a team that was coming to help us at the church. We hit the ground running. We had two small construction teams and got a lot done. I was so encouraged to see their work ethics and hear the work that the Lord has done in their lives. They were an absolute blessing. I hope to see them again soon.
Tiling the guys bathroom…
What’s Next?
Please be praying, things with the property in Argentina are moving along and may be heading there sooner than first anticipated. Here at CBI Perú I’m going to be heading up evangelism for the students, practical service hours, head up different construction projects, help disciple the students, and prepare more for the work in Argentina. There is much to be done, and I need His strength. I cannot do it without the empowerment of His Spirit. Our next semester has just started and I’m so excited to see what the Lord is going to do! Please pray for the leadership, and please pray for the students that this would be a fruitful time that the Lord would reveal the call He’s placed on the lives of His children.
This semester starts Feb. 4th at 9am
How to Get Involved…
Please pray! There is no greater need for me than for prayer of the work that the Lord has called me to do. I need His wisdom and guidance. I need the empowerment of His Spirit. I need His provision. Please pray that I would prioritize evangelism and discipleship as there is absolutely a need. Please pray that I would redeem my time well using it for the glory of His name. Please pray that the Lord would open doors for the work in Argentina and that we would be able to establish a sending hub in the South of the continent to reach South America.
For the glory of His name,
-Jordon
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not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near. HEBREWS 10:25
We decided as a team to begin our year by separating from work and business and going on a retreat. Our team gathered at the source of the Nile River for a few days in Jinja. It was a wonderful time of fellowship, relaxation, recuperation, prayer, and worship. Since some of the kids are getting old enough to watch the others, the adults were able to meet and discuss important topics for long periods. During that time, the team had the incredible privilege of baptizing one of our director’s children in the Nile River! Also, Emma was privileged to be a flower girl at the wedding of a young lady who grew up under the provision of our Director and his wife.
As a church, we ushered in the New Year with an all-night service of prayer, praise, worship, and preaching. It was a great time of fellowship, even though I had to wear earplugs. We are excited about this year for our church for a few reasons. Firstly, our church is becoming more organized because we can delegate more work as more members are being discipled. Secondly, we have started a yearly bible plan with a number of those leaders using the YouVersion Bible app. While reading the Word on a phone has its downsides, it is great to read as a group and have a platform to share what you are learning every day.
An unforeseen mechanical problem with our car gave the kids a chance to play in a junkyard!
Please be praying with us:
For our pastoral school, Terebinth Bible College, as we are graduating our current students this Spring and are starting the new intake process. Please pray that we will get the right students who are hungry to learn God’s Word and passionate about Jesus.
That God would bless the work of our church, Calvary Chapel Gulu, as we start a new year and plan new things. Please pray that many will be saved and baptized through the church body and that the body will grow in their love for, knowledge of, and commitment to Jesus.
For our family, as we are looking to raise more monthly support.
For Noelle’s stomach as she is battling painful peptic ulcers.
For the other Calvary Chapels that have been planted through our church and our sister churches. We currently have nearly 30 churches that need to be further established with permanent buildings that would cost about $5,000 each.
For Yalwak Manyen Sports Academy, the soccer ministry we have running in the village of Adak. We are currently discipling and training about 60 children multiple times a week, but the program is currently lacking a lot of gear and development (we need new balls, uniforms, cones, etc…).
Lastly, please pray for Acholi-Land as a whole that people would turn away from demon worship, cults, and false gospels and toward an understanding of Jesus through God’s Word.
Calvary Chapel Ebenezer in Kitgum town is pastored by my good friend Ocaya Peter. We were able to build the foundation for this church last year, and we are praying for the $12,500 it will take to complete it this year. (We are building this church much larger because it is in a municipality, not in a village). Calvary Chapel Parwec was planted by Calvary Chapel Ebenezer and is pastored by Charles Odida, a student at our Bible College. This is an example of the many churches we are trying to upgrade to permanent structures.
May God richly bless you as you seek to further His kingdom in your neck of the woods.
Sugoi! It has been quite a year for us living out our faith over here in Japan. This update is going to highlight both the difficulties and blessings this year has brought. Thank you so much to each of you who have gotten behind us and opened your hearts to the lost souls of Japan. It’s been quite a ride so far, but one full of God’s Glory. Learning to walk with Jesus while isolated from a culture that we know and understand has been both stretching and rewarding. We have the opportunity as adults to experience being “cultural infants” as we learn a new way of life and what it looks like to be ambassadors of Christ here in Japan.
Our loved ones as we said goodbye in Montana.
December 2023
After seven long years of waiting and training, there we were, preparing to move. It was Sunday the 10th and Jeff was sharing one last message with our home church in Montana. I distinctly remember becoming emotional and honestly overwhelmed. I was sitting beside my mother and father and surrounded by people who I’d built deep relationships with. I asked the Lord ‘will I know how to love the Japanese people? I love these people you have given me. I feel so sad to not do life side by side with them.’
Darling Shiho
For every missionary there is great cost here on earth, but we each have to ask how much of ourselves is Jesus worthy to have? I had made the choice years earlier that Jesus could have my whole life, but on that Sunday I felt myself put it on the altar again. I sat there thinking about all that the Lord had done in our lives. I listened and watched in awe of the man of God that had been built in my husband. I thought of all the people whose lives had been used by God to get us to this launching point. I was filled with trust once more, reminded that He loves the lost and that the Japanese are lost. 127 million people without hope waiting to hear. “I heard the voice of the Lord, saying whom shall I send, and who will go for us? Then I said, “Here I am send me.” – Isaiah 6:8
Team that joined us as we moved
Three days later would be the most painful experience and also the solidifying event of understanding just how important it is to get the hope of Jesus to the Japanese and give proper discipleship in this empty land. My dear friend who we’d met a year previously committed suicide. I have tried to understand why this happened for a year but to be honest, it is something that I don’t have an answer for. She was a 22 year-old woman that loved Jesus. To us she was a beautiful example of what God wanted for every Japanese soul. And personally my heart loved her so much that it was a terrible loss. We stayed up crying until the wee hours of the morning too confused about how this could happen. And now the excitement we had for moving and experiencing the Lord’s joy was met with deep sorrow. But…“WE know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to His purpose” Romans 8:28. There is still a deep hole in so much that Jeff and I do in ministry as we still feel that she is supposed to be here ministering alongside us. However, her story showed us that the issue of suicide in Japan is very real and we need to be sensitive to the Spirit and I am continually praying about how the Lord wants to use our dear friend’s testimony to help others.
Prayer
January-May 2024
We packed our bags and with a team of 9 others coming on a short-term vision trip, we moved and led a missions trip to Japan. It would take us three months to finally find a place to call home and settle into life in Japan. That time was very stretching for us as many of you know I have celiac disease and eating at restaurants is very risky for me and we didn’t have a kitchen so it was a hard way to start our new life. But we are so thankful for having the team come, because out of the 9 people that came, 4 of them are going to be here from this month until April/May. They are praying about moving full time to come over and do ministry together. I cannot even begin to tell you how encouraging this is for Jeff and I, we honestly thought it would just be us faithfully following the Lord, but to have so many missionaries lining up behind us is mind-blowing. The Lord really has His eyes on this country. Over and over again we are reminded how precious they are in His sight.
May-June 2024
We were so blessed to have the funds needed to travel back to America and see Jeff’s daughter Daphne graduate high school. There was so much joy as we saw the faithfulness of the Lord to have the whole family together and see her enter adulthood.
The Abide family annual Baptism beach day
June-September 2024
We came back to Japan and really dug in. We started our language learning at this time and were able to start understanding how to live as part of the Japanese community rather than be a bystander or a tourist. We also experienced our first summer; wow that was no joke with temperatures of 100+ and humidity of 98%! Plus, there was the noise of the cacophonous cicadas that penetrated every room in our home.
Enjoying a visit with Daphne to Montana (Pastor David and Angela)
October-November 2024
We were so blessed to travel to Thailand for the Saving Grace conference. It was seriously so wonderful to be all together from different countries and hear about all that the Lord is doing all over the world. This was so so so faith-building and I can tell you that the Holy Spirit is really moving globally. When we got back, we hosted another missionary as she prayed about moving full time over here too. It was also at this time that Jeff started teaching a bible college class on the book of Acts.
Christmas outreach team
December 2024
We ended out the year totally encouraged as we had outreaches amidst the community that seemed to be very successful. It was so special to be here for our first Christmas. It was nothing like Christmas in America so it was a time of some sadness as we missed our loved ones and traditions. But the simplicity of just enjoying the celebrations of Jesus’ birth with the believers was so special.
The Jesus loving Keiko
January 2025
As our second year begins, our language learning is going well. Jeff started a 5 day a week language program, and I am still learning with my tutor. We have 4 other missionaries here for 3 months praying about coming over long term so we are blessed by them being with us. We are continuing in the ministry at the church and praying if there is anything the Lord wants us to add in our second year.
Love from Abide
If you would like to get behind us and the work the Lord is doing this year, our one-time needs include:
The ladies’ retreat at Abide coming up that will be an extra cost of $100.
Funds needed while we are blessed to host the short-term teams that come (for extra train rides and meals we’ll host in our home)
The ministry trip to Tokyo for the Japan Calvary conference we would like to join (about $860 in total)
A vacuum for our home
A dryer machine
A printer to print Japanese worksheets
We are also still in need of monthly partners at the moment and so if you feel led to partner with us monthly, you can do so through the financial button below. Thank you so much for your prayerful consideration in partnering with us as we reach out and minister to the people of Japan.
We love you guys thank you for taking time to read this.
For to this you were called, because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that you should follow His steps: 1 Peter 2:21
Guillain Barre Syndrome (GBS) has knocked me down (in many ways) since early December, but by God’s grace I’m getting back up! One of my sisters recently sent me this quote from a book she is reading. “When God lays men on their backs, then they look up to heaven.” Thomas Watson-Mid 1600s Puritan, All Things for Good (Romans 8:28).
I am learning to see God’s hands of mercy, protection, and provision through this refining fire and “valley of (literally) the shadow of death.” Back in December, I didn’t realize just how serious GBS is and could have been until I came across this video, while trying to figure out how to pronounce Guillain Barre Syndrome https://youtu.be/HtkWhtG-MCM?si=NIU_xuPVhtzQr4kO . For example, I’m so thankful that God made a way for me to lose weight (115 lbs.) just in time or I might have been in wheelchair (or worse).
I’m also thankful that God has provided physical therapy and everything else I need here in Cambodia to restore the damaged nerves, regain strengthen my legs and learn to walk normally again. At this moment, I can only walk around 100 steps (sometimes less) at a time before pain forces me to stop and sit for minute (possibly nerves are coming back online/muscle cramps?). Prayers appreciated for this healing and strengthening process.
I continue to regain capabilities and confidence. At my lowest point, I couldn’t even dress myself, but now I’m in the process of returning to ministry and daily life activities (gradually and as I’m able). I’m learning to practice what I call, “expectant-patience,” because even though I am making rapid progress, I recognize that a long journey to complete health and strength still lies ahead. I want to be able to recognize and be thankful for each baby step (the way I walk now) God provides along the way. It also means that my plans etc. have been completely shaken up and erased (like an old Etch-A-Sketch toy). So (we all) will have to wait and see how God redraws the lines (including all travel or ministry plans etc.).
My Apologetics/Evangelism class for Cambodian students at a local seminary, founded and run by missionaries from Korea, ran between November 4 and January 16. I was only able to teach three times before I got sick. The seminary students and staff have all been very good to me, in many ways. I was very concerned that since I couldn’t teach, and finding a substitute might have been extremely difficult, if not impossible, that my students would have to retake the entire class later. However, despite my bad condition at the time, God brought it to my mind that I had recorded all the lectures during COVID. I was able to find the old video files and share them with my students-so they were able to complete the class on schedule! This morning, I was able to drive to the seminary and meet my students, my first significant ministry activity since the first week of December!
Between December 19 and January 12, Kayo hosted/facilitated (months of preparation) a team and visitors from Japan. They worked alongside our Cambodian ministry partners to host/serve in Christmas/New Year outreaches in organizations, mission/private schools, and a rural prison. They shared the Gospel, testimonies, meals, school supplies, and performed a puppet show with a Cambodian language soundtrack (even though they can’t speak Cambodian). The team/church also raised funds for the construction of a public toilet for around forty families who live in a garbage dump without any facilities, and hosted a dedication event/meal during their time there. They also visited a rural tribal church.
Benjamin finished his semester and was on Christmas break from December 20 to January 13. He spent some time studying for some major standardized tests in the next semester. He also helped me (with chores I couldn’t do), especially when Kayo was busy and traveling (one overnight trip) with the team and visitors (I’m thankful that my condition improved, just enough and just in time, so she could go and serve!) He’s really grown a lot during this trial and he and Kayo (and many others) have been a big help!
Thanks so much for your prayers, encouragement, and support!
I (Matt) recently decided to start sharing my thoughts on life, ministry, and God’s Word with all of you in regular devotionals. I have not decided whether or not I should name them, but if I do, I would like your help. Please email me back to vote on which name you like best: A Little Harrisy, Matt’s Musings, Matt’s Monthly Devotional, A Word of Wisdom, or some other suggestion you have (my favorite is the comedic A Little Harrisy). My prayer is that this helps us grow together into Christian maturity as we look forward to Christ’s return.
15 But the news about Him was spreading even farther, and large crowds were gathering to hear Him and to be healed of their sicknesses. 16 But Jesus Himself would often slip away to the wilderness and pray.LUKE 5:15-16.
When Jesus’ popularity increased, He did the opposite of what we would expect. Often, instead of going toward the crowds, He sought seclusion. Not only does verse 16 teach us about Jesus’ fully human nature (while 15 demonstrates His divinity), it also provides a great example for Jesus’ followers. We only have a limited amount of time on the earth to serve our King, and we should desire to accomplish as much for Him as possible, but more work can actually be accomplished when it is relegated to its proper place in our lives. This is because sharp tools work better than dull tools and it is worth the time to sharpen and maintain them. But what does this look like practically?
I recently was taught the illustration of Central Park by a team that came from Maryland to teach our pastors about counseling. Despite being prime real estate worth a fortune, no one can build on Central Park because, in 1853, the 778 acres (now 843) were designated forever to bless the city with beauty and fresh air. Now, according to Wikipedia, it is “the most visited urban park in the United States, with an estimated 42 million visitors annually as of 2016. It is also one of the most filmed locations in the world.” This month, my wife Noelle and I sat down to plan our “Central Park” by designating the things in our lives that are off limits from life’s business and ever-demanding workload. Because I am an audio and visual learner, we actually took the time to doodle our park and label its different aspects so that we can hang it on our wall. In order to maintain ourselves as tools in the Master Craftsman’s hand, we have carved out time for the following: personal devotions (daily), family devotions (daily), dates (weekly), dinner with our missionary team (weekly), prayer with our international team (monthly), camping with our friends (bi-monthly), family fun (regularly), family movie nights (weekly), exercise (daily), walks with friends (weekly), reading and listening to audiobooks (regularly), budget meetings (monthly), and sending out prayer requests, updates, and devotionals (monthly). While some of these things will be harder to maintain than others, we have made it off-limits to build on Central Park.
May God bless us as we seek to balance work and maintenance. May we all maintain “Central Park”.
