2010 Quotes & Blogging - "Read to Lead"
Aug. 6, 2010 - "He who dares to teach must never cease to learn." Author Unknown
Aug. 6, 2010 - "Jesus taught that the core longing of our soul is the desire to know
God, not the desire to feel loved, not the desire to experience meaning,
not the desire for the pleasures of family, friends, or success, but
the passion to know God as high and lifted up and to place ourselves
beneath him, resting in his goodness and available for his purposes." Soul Talk - Larry Crab
March 16. 2010 - I am beginning my Major Writing Project for my Doctorate of Religious Studies major. Please pray for me.
2009 Quotes & Blogging - "No one plans to fail, but few people plan not to fail."
Nov. 9, 2009
Time is flying! I had a great opportunity to fly a helicopter the other day for a few minutes. It was a huge adrenaline rush!
July 9, 2009
Kenny made the all stars baseball team for 11 & 12 year olds. They are currently playing in a tournament where tonight they play for the championship.
February 21, 2009 - I am beginning a class on Ecclisiology. This has developed into a passion of mine over the last 15 years. I missed this years Bethlehem Conference for Pastors but I am going to listen to the audio at http://www.desiringgod.org/ResourceLibrary/ConferenceMessages/ByConference/43/ Please join me in listening and interacting with what is said in all the talks.
January 2009: Join me in reading through the Old Testament during 2009. I will also be writing out the book of Deuteronomy by hand. Refer to Deut. 6:6-9
2008 Quotes & Blogging - "Step by Step."
"When you walk, your step will not be hampered, and if you run, you will not stumble." Prov. 4:12
December 6, 2008
"Do not pray for easy lives; pray to be stronger people. Do not pray for tasks equal to your powers; pray for powers equal to your tasks. Then the doing of your work shall be no miracle, but you shall be a miracle. Every day you shall wonder at the riches of life which has come to you by the grace of God." Phillips Brooks
Nov. 27, 2008
Happy Thanksgiving! Despite the overwheling bad news on the economy we have much to be thankful for. Diane and I, along with our children appreciate each of you that pray and support our ministry. May God bless you all in these days ahead through out the holiday season.
September 11, 2008
"God's love is holy love. It expresses itself not by compromising with sin - which is the modern way - neither by condoning it, but by condemning and dealing with it. God's holy love intervenes, not like a 'preemptive strike' which destroys both sin and sinner, but in such a way that the root cause of sin and evil is destroyed and the sinner saved. This is the work of the Cross." (George Carey, former Archbishop of Canterbury)
August 26, 2008 - The "Perfect" Missionary
We all know from personal experience that the perfect missionary is a myth. Here are some qualities that we look for in identifying the imperfect candidates God wants to use.
Ø Godliness
Ø Enthusiasm
Ø Servant Attitude
Ø Flexibility
Ø Ministry Experience
Ø Commitment to a church
Ø Support of spiritual shepherds
Ø Strong personal skills
Ø Resiliency
Ø Passion for the lost
Ø Mentoring experience
Ø Relational health
Ø Biblical Understanding
Ø Discernment
What a list. I think back and wonder how I ever got to join SAM. Obviously we are look for someone to grow into these but yet have a basic understanding of each.
August 26, 2008 - Cubs!
Yes, they have the best record in baseball, again! I am starting to hold my breath.
July 31, 2008 - The process of buying a home.
Wow, what a lot of work to buy a home these days. Picking a Realtor for us was a God send. We found a web page of this Realtor and then called her up, she was great!
We then went to look at homes in our budget and we found this one. We informed them that we wanted to move in in little over 3 weeks so things had to move fast. We used the builder's lender which went well. They wanted so much information and clarification, they almost drew blood. :)
The walk through was scheduled just 4 days before closing and that wasn't good. We got to the final walk through 1 hour before closing and things were not done as promised, we delayed closing at the builder's expense. The next day we met with the President of the building company and he offered us an option that if we closed and moved in his company would custom paint the entire home at our convenience, we took the deal.
We rented a truck and moved in in one day. The next day we cleaned the apartment and changed our names for the utilities.
We praise God for all He has done and for His provisions. We thank you all as well for your part in our lives.
July 28, 2008 - Prayer
We need your prayers please. We have a summer team that was suppose to return today from Peru but we have found out that they have lost their passports. Please pray God finds them in a timely manner.
July 24, 2008 - Bolivia Update
I would like to briefly share how things are going in Bolivia. On August 10 there is a vote regarding whether the President and Vice-President and all the Prefectos (Governors) should continue or not. Each one needs to gain a vote of approval greater than what he got elected by to continue in office. But if the President and Vice-President don't win, they will stay in one more year, just not finish their term of office. If a Governor looses, he is out immediately and the President appoints someone in his place. Other countries are refusing to send observers for the election, citing the fact that it is unconstitutional. And there is so much confusion. Will the vote total be counted on the percentage or on the actual number of votes? (If someone was elected by 52%, does he now need to have 52% plus one, or does he need to have more than the number of votes he had last time? This could be important depending on voter turnout.) But an official of the department of Santa Cruz said that if the President does not win in the Santa Cruz department -- even if he does in the country as a whole -- then he will no longer be considered President here! He can come to Santa Cruz just like any other person, but he will not be received or welcomed as the President. There is just a lot of potential for arguments and confusion to follow in the wake of this vote. We'd appreciate your prayers for the country. J. HAuse - Bolivia Field Rep
 June 8, 2008 This just could be the year! Go Cubs go!
June 10, 2008
Wow, how about those Cubbies!!!!
This last week has gone by so fast. We are preparing to move to SC. I have a rental truck reserved. Diane is flying there because we do not have a vehicle yet, we hope to borrow someone's until we get there and have time to find one. In the mean time we appreciate our friends who have let us borrow their cars.
The process of buying a car is extensive, especially when you help your daughter. We praise God He has provided for her with a nice used Honda Accord.
I am excited to get started in our home office and this new ministry of ours.
May 11, 2008
"It is for you to decide your destiny, freely and without constraint." Robert E. Lee
We just got back from a trip to the USA for Rachel's graduation from college, we are so proud. It is a bit daunting the price differences of food and gas from those here in Bolivia.
We covet your prayers as we wrap up our last few weeks here in Bolivia. We were honored Friday night the pastors in the "Solo para Pastores" group, it was humbling and will be a very special memory.
April 27, 2008
Yes, Cubs are 16-8, I'll take that!
Was a bit surprised lately about some recent religious belief findings of a Chicago talk show host, I will have to investigate that more thoroughly.
We are in the packing stage. We have sold many of our things already. We covet your prayers during this time. Lord willing April 30th we plan to go to Chicago and be there for Rachel's graduation.
April 3, 2008
There goes the Cub's undefeated season. OK, don't panic, it's early. Cubs can come back and win. I hope. :)
March 23, 2008
"Leaders today are a mile wide and an inch deep. So busy with administration of God's work that the depth resulting from intimacy is non resistant." Dave Wagner - Beyond the Resitance
March 4th, 2008
I recently came across of good passage that seems very relevant to our situation. Believing God "is not finished with us yet" we are considering our future ministry oportunities. Our context is not the same as that of Israel's but God still is in the business of change.
Isa 43:19 Behold, I am doing a new thing; now it springs forth, do you not perceive it?
February 12, 2008
I would like to share something that I listened to today. During my furloughs I have gone to the Bethlehem Conference for Pastors with my best friend for many years. This year he went with his father and I listened to a sermon he recommended on line. http://www.desiringgod.org/ResourceLibrary/ConferenceMessages/ByConference/39/2592_The_Call_to_Courage/
I would encourage you to go to the web page and listen. Here is a simple outline of the message.
The Call to Courage – Crawford Lorittz
Joshua 1:1-9
“Nothing in life or in ministry ever happens apart from courage. Somebody has to pull the trigger. The very nature of leadership is that it is a prophetic statement of where things ought to be. Inherent in leadership is a call to embrace aloneness and resilience.”
Courage rests on……..1 - Clear defined assignment, 2 - Assurance of God’s presence, 3 - Focused determination, 4 - The Word of God
I think you will find this an extreme blessing. Listen to the other messgaes as well.
Jan. 24, 2008
I had the opportunity to preach this last weekend. I chose to speak from Malachi 1:6-14 and I titled it "Leftovers." God scorns the priests for their disobedience and contempt for the law and His name. You may ask how did this happen? The priests started to grumble (2:17), then they allowed God's commands to be compromised, (1:6-11) and finally they let their passion become their pain. (1:12,13)
It is not unlike us in many ways to fall into these same problems of grumbling and compromise. We must be carefuil they don't lead to isolation from God, (1:10) robbery, (3:9) and unfaithfulness. (2:10)
Jan. 23, 2008
Rain, rain, go away, come back another day! We have been getting a lot of rain lately and it is flooding the lowlands. We had to cancel classes at the kids school due to the rain, 4 classrooms got flooded. Please pray God causes things to dry up.
Jan. 16, 2008
“With our whole heart, soul, mind, strength and fortitude; with our whole understanding, powers, effort, affection, and feeling; with every desire and wish, let us love the Lord our God who gives each of us our body, our soul, our life; who creates, redeems, and saves us by mercy alone; who does all good for us, the miserable, wretched, rotten, and ungrateful. Let us desire nothing else, want nothing else, delight in nothing else, except our Creator, Redeemer and Savior who alone is good; who alone is holy. Let nothing hinder, separate, or come between us.” - St. Francis of Assisi
This is my first quote fo the new year. I also like the verse from Proverbs above. In its context it is dependent on walking in the righteousness and wisdom of God. We must live, plan, and dream one step at a time. Please pray for us as we consider our "next steps" in ministry.
2007 Quotes & Blogging - "Let your gentleness be evident to all." Phil 4:5
Dec. 18, 2007
Tension is the word for what is occuring in Bolivia. This last weekend the government in charge presented a new "magna carta" constitution for the country. In an act of rejection to that the department of Santa Cruz and 3 other departments created their own "autonomy" constitutions. There was a lot of fear and rumors floating around but in the end things were mostly quiet. From here both these documents have to proceed through ratifications and referendums, it could take up to 8 months.
Please pray because it seems the polarization grows greater every day.
Dec. 7, 2007
Just completed a 10 day trip to the USA. I was up in Chicago briefly and also in our new Mission headquarters in Fort Mill, SC. The purpose of the trip was to complete a "mid-career assessment" facilitated by another organization called C.R.M. ministries. This was not a "med-career crisis." :) It was a great time to better understand myself through some gift and personality testing and group interaction from the Mission's Executive Director, Associate Director, my long time friend and spiritual mentor/pastor from my home town, a good friend that facilitated the meeting and a close friend and former partner of 16 years in ministry.
The meetings went great and I believe God was glorified in the process. I came away with some great counsel and advice to equip and enable me for the furtherence of God's work in our lives in ministry. I appreciate SAM for giving me this opportunity and I appreciate each of you for your faithfulness in giving and praying for us.
I got to spend several days with Rachel, it is hard being away from your children.
We ask you to pray with us as we seek God's perfect will for our present lives and our future.
Nov. 13, 2007
I have been slack on blogging lately, I am still grieving over the loss and not just the Cubs, the Bears and Bulls are not doing too well either.
Here's a good verse to reflect on: Rom 5:2 Through him we have also obtained access by faith into this grace in which we stand, and we rejoice in hope of the glory of God.
Oct. 7, 2007 - NO! It can't be. Yes, now the Cubs are out.
 October 1, 2007 and we are in! Yes!!!
Sept. 18th, 2007
Yes!!!! Still in first place. What a win last night! Go Cubbies!
PEOPLE DO NOT drift toward holiness. Apart from grace-driven effort, people do not gravitate toward godliness, prayer, obedience to Scripture, faith, and delight in the Lord. We drift toward compromise and call it tolerance; we drift toward disobedience and call it freedom; we drift toward superstition and call it faith. We cherish the indiscipline of lost self-control and call it relaxation; we slouch toward prayerlessness and delude ourselves into thinking we have escaped legalism; we slide toward godlessness and convince ourselves we have been liberated.
D. A. Carson, For the Love of God
Sept. 7, 2007
Check your MLB standings and notice the Cubs are in first place in the month of September, Yes!!!!!
"Everything by prayer and supplication." Have you ever prayed so that you could buy gas? I have. Santa Cruz has had a shortage of Diesel and Gas for months. We are not sure if the governement is trying to put a squeeze on things here but either way it is a pain. I prayed this morning and was able to fill my tank, thanks Lord.
Speaking of the government. There are some real problems these days with the city of Sucre and La Paz. The problem also stretches down here to Santa Cruz and other departments. The governement has basically been paralized for a while. Pray please for Bolivia.
Aug. 9th, 2007
We are all together here in Bolivia as a family. God provided for Rachel to visit and Kendra to reurn after her summer. We are excited!
Jesuit Trail - 2 weeks ago 5 missionaries went to visit the 7 Jesuit churches along the "trail." We used the airplane to hit the biggest towns and went by road for the others. This is an exciting trip. We all used it as a "spiritual retreat." Visit www.destinosantacruz.com to see more about the visit and some pictures.
August 6, 2007
Happy Aniversary Bolivia - 182 years!!!
Yesterday I preached at a church on the "Fantastic Fours." It was taken from Proverbs 30. If you want my notes let me know.
July 22, 2007
"Christ Jesus is joined unto his people in marriage-union. In love he espoused his Church as a chaste virgin, long before she fell under the yoke of bondage. Full of burning affection he toiled, like Jacob for Rachel, until the whole of her purchase-money had been paid, and now, having sought her by his Spirit, and brought her to know and love him, he awaits the glorious hour when their mutual bliss shall be consummated at the marriage-supper of the Lamb. Not yet hath the glorious Bridegroom presented his betrothed, perfected and complete, before the Majesty of heaven; not yet hath she actually entered upon the enjoyment of her dignities as his wife and queen: she is as yet a wanderer in a world of woe, a dweller in the tents of Kedar; but she is even now the bride, the spouse of Jesus, dear to his heart, precious in his sight, written on his hands, and united with his person. On earth he exercises towards her all the affectionate offices of Husband. He makes rich provision for her wants, pays all her debts, allows her to assume his name, and to share in all his wealth. Nor will he ever act otherwise to her. The word divorce he will never mention, for “He hateth putting away.” Death must sever the conjugal tie between the most loving mortals, but it cannot divide the links of this immortal marriage. In heaven they marry not, but are as the angels of God; yet there is this one marvelous exception to the rule, for in Heaven Christ and his Church shall celebrate their joyous nuptials. This affinity as it is more lasting, so is it more near than earthly wedlock. Let the love of husband be never so pure and fervent, it is but a faint picture of the flame which burns in the heart of Jesus. Passing all human union is that mystical cleaving unto the Church, for which Christ left his Father, and became one flesh with her." (Charles Spurgeon)
July 11, 2007
"Knowledge of God's character makes Him more real to us and makes us more aware of His presence. God is personal, plural,perfect, powerful, purposeful, promise-keeping, paternal,and ... praiseworthy." (J.I. Packer)
"God, creator of heaven and earth, has chosen to be, first and foremost, a Father." (Henri Nouwen)
July 5th, 2007 - a note on "freedom"
"The captive balloon is obviously not free. And the average person is moored to the bonds of things, to public opinion, to governmental and economic realities, like the captive balloon on its cable. But it is not so obvious to everyone that the drifting “free” balloon, subject to every whim of the wind is not free either.
There is no freedom in being stirred by every opinion, steered by every spirit of the times, governed by every urge of instinct. Mere feeling -reeling, moody mysticism - is a variety of emasculation, but it is not freedom. Freedom is there only where a holy moral imperative and a mature will shows us the way we must steer our lives. “Command yourself, or be a slave forever.” As long as you are not master of your self, you are not free."
Eberhard Arnold
July 3, 2007
Happy 4th of July day and week! God bless America! We are reminded about our country's roots and foundational tenets time and time again despite what some may want. I believe America was born in part on the foundation of the family, and the "family" as we know seems to be falling apart. What's the solution? Diane and I came across this quote in our devotions. "What would happen to the next generation if we trained our children to be faithful in little as well as in what the world considers "much"-intelligence, wealth and athletic ability? If they don't learn to be faithful in the little things from you, then what kinds of leaders, workers, husbands, wives, fathers and mothers will they make?" This can be the first step.
On another note. What is Bud Selig mingling in the Cub's business for? What does he care if the Cubs want to trade someone, doesn't he have more important things to do like figuring a way for Pete Rose to get back into baseball?
June 17, 2007
Ever wonder what a pilot feels when he takes off an airplane and heads off into the sky? Here is a recent quote from Charles Lindburgh's book, "The Spirit of St. Louis." "Trees become bushes; barns, toys; cows turn into rabits as we climb. I loose all conscious connection with the past. I live in the moment in this strange, unmortal space, crowded with beauty, pierced with danger."
May 24, 2007
S.A.D. = seperation anxiety dissorter, we are sad. The anxiety is over because it is a reality.
This morning we took Kendra to the airport to leave Bolivia and spend the summer in the Chicago area. This now makes 2 of our children off on their own for a while. We know Kendra will do well, and we are grateful for the friends and family that will help watch over her. Kendra saved money for a long time to do this, she is basically paying for this on her own.
We hope to have Rachel come and visit in August. It is important for her to earn money this summer as well but we haven't seen her since Christmas and we thought it be good for us to be together before she goes back for her senior year of college.
April 27, 2007
I recently listened to a sermon on Holiness by Thabiti Anyabwile, a guest speaker at the Bethlehem Conference for Pastors. I listened over the internet because I was unable to go this year.
"As pastors, we must pursue not just personal holiness, but also corporate holiness. Fit your people for heaven. Be concerned with a pervasive holiness, then we will see the glory of God." Anyabwile also refered to a quote of R.C. Sproul who says, "16,000 men leave the ministry every year due to discouragement and moral failure." Certainly this is a call for holiness!
April 18, 2007
"Fear is the opposite of Love, not hate." This is a quote from a devotional series Diane and I have been going through this year. We were both challenged to list our top 5 fears we have, do you know yours?
"The Fear of man brings a snare, but he who trusts in the Lord will be exalted." Prov. 29:25. Some of my fears are rejection, obscurity, & disorganization. The article says that fear is a trap. It can cause us to become paralyzed and discouraged. It intimidates us and causes us to feel inferior to others and our circumstances. Fear acts like a magnifying glass, making seemingly small objects and circumstances seem giant and insurmountable. Here is a key point to all of this. Satan can get fear to line the interior of your soul, it becomes like a impenetrable coating that causes you to take your focus off of God.
Maybe you are challenged by this as well, make a list of your fears, share them with your wife or friend and begin to cast them out by perfect love, 1 John 4:18.
April 9, 2007
Leadership and pastoral ministry is about "training and equiping" the laity to make good decisions. As pastors we are to "train and equip" according to scripture. Rev. Galen Lowery
This is a recent quote from a friend of mine in ministry and I believe he is right. I also would like to include as part of that the goal of "releasing." I believe we not only enable, that is train, and equip, give them the tools to do ministry, but also release them to do it. This requires mutual trust and partnership and gives the person the confidence to do ministry. It keeps the relationship bounded. The greatest part of this is that the three must never be severed from each other because we will always need to go back for more training, more equiping, and eventually more releasing, this leads to spiritual growth and conformity to Christ.
April 4, 2007
The flooding in Bolivia these last few months has finally come to a point where the people can breathe a sigh of relief. Even though the water table is receeding it will be months before people can return to their villages and communities to assess the damage on their homes. I recently took a delegation of leaders from World Gospel Mission to Trinidad which is the capital of the Beni region and the center of relief efforts. Check out the article on their efforts to raise funds and supplies for the region. It also includes some good pictures. You may have to copy and paste this address for it to work. Or you can go to www.wgm.org and click on the Bolivia Relief picture.
http://www.wgm.org/NETCOMMUNITY/Page.aspx?&pid=2790&srcid=2827
April 2, 2007
"Authentic subjective experience of God leads to authentic objective truth about God leading to authentic practical mission for God." J. Piper
I got this off of a sermon he spoke on during this year's Pastor's conference that I missed because I am here in Bolivia. I get to listen though on-line.
April 2, 2007
Yes Cubs, Go Cubs, and I am happy the Tribune is selling the team, about time!
March 27, 2007
Someone pinch me and wake me up from this dream. I dreamed that I have a 21 year old daughter. How did that happen? I'm old!
March 25, 2007
Professional class Ministry thoughts: We hosted our first conference this last week and we are pleased at the outcome. Several contacts were made that Lord willing we hope will get involved in a small group. I have been giving some thought to some of the obstacles to this ministry and to the evangelical church here in Bolivia. This is a quote of mine in process but I believe, "The 3 greatest sins affecting the evangelical church here in Bolivia are Legalism, Judgementalism, & Ignorance and the irony is that each of us are guilty of all of these at tsome time." We discussed legalism a bit in a meeting this last week. We came to a consensus that the Pastors may not be pruposefully promoting legalism and that the legalistic stance can be the result of poor understanding of the people in the church, and improper and uneffective communication by the Pastor.
April 1 we will have a Spanish service at the english church at night. Please pray for God to bring those He wants to the meeting.
March 11, 2007
"Two Tester" I titled this blog this way because recently I had two periods of testing my patience and integrity.
The first refers to a test I took for a counseling class. I sent in the test but it got lost in the mail. I am really bummed but I can't control it so my only choice is take it over or get an "F," I am re-taking it.
The second test refers to receiving a counterfit 50 Boliviano bill. The value is only about $6 but you hate getting ripped off. We went to a restaurant for Sunday lunch. We got change back and headed for a grocery store near by. At the counter in the store the lady said sorry I can't take this, it is not real. We looked at it and she passed it under a machine to confirm it. Because we were close to the restaurant we went back. I know it was part of the change they gave us because it had writing on the bill that I remember. The lady behind the counter said, "I didn't give that to you." She as well tested it under a machine to confirm it was fake. I said to her that she did give it to us. It lasted no more than 1 minute and we walked out the door.
So what is the big deal? We were driving home and we all agreed that maybe God was teaching us something and testing to see how we would respond. I think we have all passed these little tests and we praise God that we didn't loose our testimony and that He provides us with our needs through many of you. It was a good family teaching moment.
March 9, 2007
John Wesley wrote: "Give me one hundred men who fear nothing but God, who hate nothing but sin, and who know nothing but Jesus Christ and Him crucified, and I will shake the world."
Interesting perspective of Luke 23:34 I learned this week from this book. Jesus asks the Father to forgive those that were mistreating Him. The different perspective is on forgiving someone for a wrong against you and what that does. It allows you to rid yourself of revenge, hate or anger towards that person so that you can love them instead. This is cool because Jesus asks God to forgive them which gave Jesus the power to love them, and not potentially be contaminated by their sin, it frees us of further potential consequences. Forgiveness not only is for the benefit of those that had sinned, but for the recipient of the sin as well.
Feb. 26, 2007 - Meeting with Eduardo P.
"It's not about the conduct but conviction." Oh so true. Conduct is what defines most evangelical churches here, the do's and don'ts. What is lacking is the conviction of heart that leads to a proper conduct, not just a list of rules given by the pastor. Eduardo P. and I had a great talk about our ministry to the professional class. Eduardo P. is a Colombian national who is a teacher/lecturer for Precepts Int. He has been coming to Bolivia for many years teaching pastors how to study the scriptures. Improper exegesis and application is his battle zone. We agreed on many issues, the primary being that legalism is one of the main problems retarding the growth of the evangelical church here in Bolivia. He also talked on the difficulty of reaching this class and how years ago most missions came to Latin America and did the easier thing by reaching the masses of the poorer class people who have many needs and express them. We may have experienced tremendous quantity of growt but we have possibly suffered in quality. Want to comment, feel free to write: kkrestan@yahoo.com
Feb. 20, 2007 - Ash Wednesday Confession
"I, indeed, labor in the sweat of my brow. I am torn with sorrow of heart. I am laden with sin, troubled with temptations, enmeshed and oppressed by many evil passions, and there is none to help me, none to deliver and save me but You, my Lord God and Savior, to Whom I entrust myself and all I have, that You may protect me and lead me to eternal life. For the honor and glory of Your name receive me, You Who have prepared Your body and blood as food and drink for me. Grant, O Lord, my God and Savior, that by approaching Your mysteries frequently, the zeal of my devotion may increase." T. Kempis
Feb. 6th, 2007
“A man’s true progress consists in denying himself, and the man who has denied himself is truly free and secure. Man draws nearer to God in proportion as he withdraws farther from earthly comfort. And he ascends higher to God as he descends lower into himself and grows more vile in his own eyes. (The voice of Christ): My child, renounce self and you shall find me. Give up your own self-will, your possessions, and you shall always gain. For once you resign yourself irrevocably; greater grace will be given you.” Thomas a Kempis.
Feb. 5th, 2007
Super Bowl flops! Da Bears lost, it was sad.
"This week of Rex Grossman's life couldn't end fast enough for him. He knew. The Colts knew. Everybody watching the game in the rain at Dolphin Stadium and most people in the TV audience of 1 billion knew." Chicago Tribune.
Super Bowl bound Bears!
Yes, it is January 2007 and the Bears are in the super Bowl. You are invited here to Bolivia to watch the game with me.
2006 Blogging
How would you like to be described when you die? - Dec. 29, 2006.
Recently two men died, both very influential and well known. It is interesting how they have been described in their eulogies. One, an entertainer, is described as a "man with a turbulent personal life," and the other, a former US President, was described as "a man of integrity and chracter." Isn't it obvious?
Constitutional battle threatens to split Bolivia - POSTED: 2:31 p.m. EST, December 15, 2006
Story Highlights:
• Debate erupts over rewriting constitution as Bolivia's Indian majority seeks power
• Bolivia's president says a majority in constitutional assembly needed for charges
• His opponents argue a two-thirds majority is required for individual changes
• Business elite opposition demands greater autonomy for wealthy eastern region
SUCRE, Bolivia (AP) -- The battle to rewrite Bolivia's constitution has come down to a math problem, and the question is anything but academic. Hanging in the balance is not only the direction the nation takes, but perhaps whether it remains a whole country at all.
A debate is raging at the constitutional assembly about how many delegates are needed to approve changes to the constitution, and the answer is likely to determine whether the Indian majority in the country gains more power.
President Evo Morales, the nation's first Indian leader, has the support of a little more than half of the constitutional assembly, and says a simple majority is enough to approve individual changes to the constitution.
More Details: http://us.cnn.com/2006/WORLD/americas/12/15/bolivia.constitution.ap/index.html
Heads Up - Just so you know our mission is moving to South Carolina, Fort Mills to be exact. We will of course let you know the address etc.. in order to make the necessary changes on your end.
"Hurry Up & Wait": This is a slogan here in Bolvia that I have often been guilty of. We rush to get things done only to have them wait for days, weeks, or sometimes months in the paper work maze of Bolivia's government.
We have good news though. I finally have received my legal ID card and a leaglized copy. these were needed in order to renew my pilot's license. We will now see how long that takes.
"The Cost of Missions"
Luk 9:23, 24 And he said to all, "If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me. For whoever would save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake will save it. "
There is much discussion in churches about the cost of missions but most of it is directed to what churches and individuals are spending to keep a missionary on the field. I wonder if we give the same thought to what it costs the missionary to go to the field, ie. leaving family, friends, living in hard places, lonliness, etc...?
I was in church the other day and saw a man who has been a missionary for probably close to 30 years or more. This man was held captive in Colombia for I believe 18 months or so during one of his terms. This affected of course not only him, but his wife who probably prayed what seemed 24 hours a day waiting for his release. Since then they has transfered to Bolivia.
After talking with him a bit tears actually came to my eyes because he told me they were returning to Colombia again to work. I guess I couldn't believe it at first but then I rejoiced with him. What a man of God! Verses began to cross my mind to further explain to myself his decision. I asked myself, "what is he thinking?" Luke 9:23, 24, above, are perfect to illustrate this.
I was challenged again in my call to serve God full time in ministry. With the political instability in Bolivia we have no idea what will become of this country but missionaries are here sacrificing daily in order to preach and teach the gospel. Their stories may not be as dramatic as this mans but nonetheless it is a huge cost. Hats off to any missionary for their obedience to their Lord!
Bolivia: Political influence on the direction of a country.
There is a shifting tide here in Bolivia and we need to take notice. You may have heard there is a new President in town and he wants to change things. The word is that the people of Bolivia didn’t vote for “Evo” they voted for change, and change they will get. both politically and religiously. Evo claims to be a part of the Aymara indigenous peoples which trace their roots back to pre Incas era to a group know as the Tiwanaku from 1000 A.D. As you know the Indians from this time period worshipped the sun, moon, and the mother earth. The current tide seems to be a process of introspection, challenging the core beliefs of a nation. Bolivians are asking themselves questions like; “Should we return to the animistic and Inca religion of the past? Should there be religious teaching in the public schools at all? How much control should a religious system have in our government?”
The fight is not just over religion but also the form of government. President Morales wants to reform the government into a socialist/communist regime. As a “cocalero” leader he is anti-American by definition. He has been mentored by Castro and Chavez. The country currently has a constitutional assembly and he wants them to produce a socialist document and to nationalize all natural resources and get rid of foreign companies.
This current administration as well is challenging tradition by calling the colonial and the Spanish inquisitions as negative and imperialistic; the result of these was the Catholic Church and the United States’ influence in their politics. He wants neither of these and it may come to be true.
Join us in prayer!
August 18, 2006:
What do we believe from the information we get in today's media? I don't know about you but it gets confusing and often times contradictory of what is the truth. Unless the Bible is used as our standard then truth will always be subjective.
July 18, 2006:
Israel and its enemies. What can we say about this conflict? I believe we need to support them even more now. I do not like to see innocent lives taken, who is going to step in and resolve this?
Our ID cards need to be renewed here in Bolivia. We went the other day to start the process. Because they expired 2 years ago, after we left for the States, we have to pay a fine, about $55 each, plus the normal process fees. Diane also has to get a special stamp for her passport, $100. Some times you don't quite know if they are stating it correctly and legally but you have to go with the flow.
I had a truck I bought in 1991. After I bought it they said the import papers were bad and that I would have to pay $1,500 to make them right, I did. 16 years later I am told the papers are not right, I got ripped off, and that the truck serial numbers were "changed" before I bought it. I sold it 4 years ago and it has been sold again about 2 years ago. The new owner has come back to me to pay to make it right. Here they draw up lawyer documents when something is sold and there is a clause that makes me responsible along with the other owners, inculding the person I bought it from. Imagine that, a person selling it 15 years ago is responsible? So what do I do? The new owner said I can pay him $2,000 and he will go away. This includes a legal document excluding me from further problems but is that even a guarantee? I don't think so. I have to hire a lawyer to help me, I can't believe this is happening.
We are getting settled but the transition is a bit harder for all the family, it was hard leaving our family and friends.
July 10, 2006: From Bolivia now!
Patience is the key word these days when you move to a Latin country. I will write more on this later.
For you non believers there is always next year.
May 26th - The Cubs:
I am not bailing on the Cubs but we must make some changes soon and they have to start at the top!
Seminar at Northern Baptist Seminary - April 26, 2006
Mike Slaughter – Pastor of Ginghamsburg Church. www.ginghamsburg.org
The seminar had two sessions, one in the morning and the other in the afternoon.
1. The Mission-Driven Church: Post Modern Witness
4 worldviews: Secular – skeptical of anything supernatural, including a god Soft Secular – believe in God but place trust in culture and self Post-secular – under 40’s, they fit Christ into their worldview rather than being transformed into Christ’s worldview Christian – it’s not about me and the truth will prevail and it may cost me my life
“Great Requirement” – Micah 6:8 “Act justly, love mercy, walk humbly.” This was Mike’s main focus. He has worked over the years in his church to get the people to interact within their society in the three areas of justice, mercy, and personal humility. They have adopted a region in Sudan where the church has worked with refugee camps in developing farming, and education. The focus here is that the world needs to be transformed into Christ’s worldview as partly stated in Matt. 22:37-39.
2. Momentum for Life: Sustaining personal health, integrity, and strategic focus
Self Leadership – D.R.I.V.E.
D – daily devotion to God – Ps. 143:8 R – readiness for life long learning – Acts 7:22 I – investing in key relationships – Is. 5:8 V – Visioning for the future – Jer. 1:12 E – Eating & Exercise for Life – 1 Cor. 6:19
**The conference was held in a beautiful center overlooking a small lake at Northern Baptist Seminary. There were distinguished visitors there as well like the President of Judson College who I had lunch with and a well known author, Dr. Robert Webber who recently joined the Northern staff coming from Wheaton College. I enjoyed it. The speaker was transperant and appears to have a love for Christ and a love for people.
April 21, 2006
George Ryan may be guilty, but, will he get pardoned by the President? It is a valid question to ask. Most former Presidents have pardoned many people, remember Rostenkowski?
My prediction is that the Bulls loose 3 games in a row against Miami. I probably won't watch them either. I have a hard time watching the NBA ever since MJ retired, it isn't the same.
I am taking a formal counseling class for the first time in my theological training. It wasn't an area of interest in the past but I recognize the need to learn some of these skills in my ministry so "I'm diving in."
A good quote for the week. "A story of a spiritual seeker who interupted a busy life to spend a few days in a monastery. "I hope your stay is a blessed one," said the monk who showed the visitor to his cell. "If you need anything, let us know, and we'll teach you how to live without it." I love it!
April 3, 2006 - Cubs
Yes, we are off to a good start! They are in first place today.
April 2, 2006 - Immigration
Maybe you have wondered what I feel about the immigration issue currently in the forefront of politics. Having traveled and lived in a foriegn country I definitely see the value of a good immigration policy whether it is permanent or temporary, without it there is confusion and corruption.
My belief is that whatever is decided it should follow our laws of our country and be a legal process.
March 22, 2006 - Vacation
I recommend everyone to visit the Grand Canyon, we had a great time.
March 15, 2006 Not a matter of “Luck”
It was a stormy boat ride that was so bad that the sailors decided to cast lots among the crew to decide who was at fault for their terrible situation. Jonah you would say” drew the short stick” and he was thrown over board. (Jonah 1:7) Not so lucky was he? But then a big fish swallowed him up and after three days spit him out on dry land where he lived to see another day. Now that seems a bit lucky? If you don't know the whole story then it would seem that Jonah was both lucky and unlucky.
Can you remember back when you were a child, or maybe even one of your friends now that always seem to get lucky, whether it is at games, bingo, scratch and win at the local coffee store, or drawing straws to see who gets to go first?
I never seemed to win any of those and I guess I felt I wasn’t that lucky.
We use the word luck or lucky quite a bit in our vocabulary which seems to mean that there must be some type of reality to it.
We have many phrases as well when it comes to luck;,"Find a penny, pick it up all day long, you'll have good luck!" Luck of the Irish, You lucky dog you, Pure luck. . Luck is symbolized in:Horseshoes, 4 leaf clovers, and a Rabbit’s foot.
When we consider luck we usually think of it in good terms but there is also bad luck. They say that the Black cat and Friday the 13th are very unlucky.
On NBC’s Tonight Show, Johnny Carson read an item from the lost-and-found column of a midwestern newspaper: “Lost dog—brown fur, some missing due to mange, blind in one eye, deaf, lame leg due to recent traffic accident, slightly arthritic. Goes by the name of ‘Lucky.’”
The dictionary defines luck as, "a chance combination of circumstances operating for or against an individual." When you think about it, our lives are filled every day with countless, unpredictable, and seemingly large random circumstances that when they sequentially fall into place and play themselves out strike us as either lucky or unlucky.
You may be wondering then, what does the bible say about luck, or chance? The bible does gives us a little insight into this “chance happening of fortunate or adverse results,” or in other words good or bad luck. The following verses from the Message translation mention “luck.”
Ecc 9:11 I realized another thing, that in this world fast runners do not always win the races, and the brave do not always win the battles. The wise do not always earn a living, intelligent people do not always get rich, and capable people do not always rise to high positions. Bad luck happens to everyone.
1Ch 7:23 She conceived and produced a son. He named him Beriah (Unlucky), because of the bad luck that had come to his family.
When it comes to “chance” there are two things I see are important for us to understand.
1. God’s word is clear that He is sovereign and oversees His creation which includes His people and the earth. Daniel 2:20-22 & 1st Timothy 6:15 sum up for me this biblical principle:
Dan 2:20-22 Daniel answered and said: "Blessed be the name of God forever and ever, to whom belong wisdom and might. He changes times and seasons; he removes kings and sets up kings; he gives wisdom to the wise and knowledge to those who have understanding; he reveals deep and hidden things; he knows what is in the darkness, and the light dwells with him.
1Ti 6:15 which he will display at the proper time--he who is the blessed and only Sovereign, the King of kings and Lord of lords,
These verses show that when it comes to God’s plans for His creation, He doesn’t leave it to chance but is personally involved in the outcome.
It may seem to you and I that we get lucky, but behind the visible eye is God who is "at the wheel." Some things God may allow to happen in their natural course but other things are clearly directed by God.
2. One area that is definitely not a matter of luck is our Salvation. God describes to us in several passages where we stand.
Romans 3:23 “For all have sinned and come short of the glory of God.”
Romans 6:23 “For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life.”
Joh 1:12 But to all who did receive him, who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God,
Looking at the seriousness of eternity, and the possibility of spending it in Hell, do we really want to leave such an important thing as eternal life to “chance?” I believe not.
Why not know for sure? The other day a man came to church for some help and I had the privilage to talk with him. He had said he invited Christ into his life years ago but really wasn’t sure. I prayed with him so that he could have this assurance.
God’s word tells us we can know that we have salvation;
2Ti 1:12-14 and it is for this reason that I suffer these things. But I am still full of confidence, because I know whom I have trusted, and I am sure that he is able to keep safe until that Day what he has entrusted to me. Hold firmly to the true words that I taught you, as the example for you to follow, and remain in the faith and love that are ours in union with Christ Jesus. Through the power of the Holy Spirit, who lives in us, keep the good things that have been entrusted to you.
The key word here is trust. I close with a few questions for you to consider: Have you entrusted your life to Christ? Have you recognized that you are a sinner and in need of a Savior? Do you believe in the name of Jesus and have you told Him so?
Eph 3:17,18 and I pray that Christ will make his home in your hearts through faith. I pray that you may have your roots and foundation in love, so that you, together with all God's people, may have the power to understand how broad and long, how high and deep, is Christ's love.
It isn’t luck by which we are saved. We are saved by the grace of God through faith.
Feb. 24th, 2006
Have you heard of the "emergent church movement?" Some of my readings of late have been in this area of discussion. I have not come to any firm judgements yet on this movement except to say that some of the statements coming from the leaders have concerned me.
Having served for years in a different culture from my own, I know the importance of cross cultural ministry and how we need to reach out and allow for differences especially if they are in the area of form and not substance. Our methods can and will change, but the message must be the same and it must be biblical and historically faithful.
I will have more on this later. In the mean time, what do you think? kdkrestan@samlink.org
Feb. 9th, 2006
“The old woman surprised me. I had noticed her earlier, wrapped in one of those shawls used by highland peasants. She could barely read, but she was one of the first to arrive for the class I was teaching in a church near Lima, Peru. To start the class, I wrote on the blackboard these words from Mark 14:7: “The poor you will always have with you.” I asked what the words meant. There was silence for a moment. By their faces, I could see that these simple Sunday school teachers, most of them small vendors in the nearby market, were grappling with the question. Then the woman in the black shawl looked straight at me and said slowly and firmly: “It means that there will always be inhuman exploiters in this world – until Jesus returns.” Hallelujahs and Amen’s greeted her statement.” (Escobar, The Challenge, pg. 12)
Socio-critical hermeneutics is an important part of understanding all of what God intends for us. If we close our eyes to the social aspect of interpretation we will continue to increase the separation between the have and have-nots.
Imagine what the world would look like today if the church had focused more on these issues in the past, I believe things would be better throughout the world. It is possible that we have related much of the socio-critical issues to be resolved by local governments. How about a change as seen in the following quote?
"What Smith from his Reformed tradition, and RO theologians from their more Anglo-Catholic perspectives, seek is to re-direct Christian loyalties and re-form Christian affections away from the state (unlimited power) and market (unbounded desire), and bend them back towards the church which exists in the world, through God's Spirit, as the singular exemplary human community. And that would make orthodoxy radical indeed." (Ashley Woodiwiss is associate professor and chair of the department of politics & international relations at Wheaton College.)
February 5th, 2006
Bolivia Just elected a New President, AGAIN, the 6th President in 5 years. How does that happen? In the year 2000, President Banzer was in office. He died of cancer so his vice President, named Tuto, took over for a little over a year. Then an elected President, Goni was in office for a year, kicked out by the indigenous Indian group with road blocks , protests and many dying for the cause. So Goni resigned early and his Vice President , Mesa took over, and he too after about a year was forced to resigned because of further roads blocks and protests. SO then there was a temporary President for the past 8 months and new elections now voted the leader of the indigenous group Evo Morales into office. It appears that Evo's years of rebellion has paid off, at least for now.
The native indigenous Indian groups are finally taking control after many years ago of Spanish invasion and control. Socialism is the party stand similar Cuba, Venezuela, Uruguay, Peru, and many other Countries. I guess it is their turn to try? Will corruption and social ills be stopped? Will poverty cease? Will the orphans be adopted? Will the street kids addicted to drugs get clean and become a valuable citizen, contributing to the economic condition of this country? Only God knows the answer to these questions and only God can change the hearts of people for GOOD not evil. SO pray for Bolivia and its people. [communication received from Bolivia]
“Long live Coca; death to the Yankees!” That is how Evo Morales ended his victory speech in the presidential elections in Bolivia. He said it in one of the indigenous languages, Quechua or Aymara, and so it seems the international press didn’t catch it at all. This didn’t sound like a very promising beginning, to say the least! But since he was elected president on the 18th of December, he seems to have changed his mind on different matters. He was sworn in on Sunday, January 22, and his first week has had some controversy. We’ll see how it all works out, but for now things are generally peaceful and folks seem willing to give him a chance to show what he can do for the country. [communication received from Bolivia]
Blogging as of Nov. 2005
November 2005
As I sit here looking out the window it is snowing. It hasn’t been this cold since last March and it will only get colder from here on out.
You probably know that no two snowflakes are alike, that is mind boggling seeing the fact that billions drop from the sky on a daily basis. It shouldn’t surprise us then that no two humans are alike, even identical twins have distinguishing characteristics and different DNA.
God is so awesome in His creation.
I came across this quote and thought I would share it with you.
All Fords are exactly alike, but no two men are just alike. Every new life is a new thing under the sun; there has never been anything just like it before, never will be again. A young man ought to get that idea about himself; he should look for the single spark of individuality that makes him different from other folks, and develop that for all he is worth. Society and schools may try to iron it out of him; their tendency is to put it all in the same mold, but I say don't let that spark be lost; it is your only real claim to importance. Henry Ford 1863-1947
God’s word says in Ps. 139:14 that we are fearfully and wonderfully made. And He obviously made us all unique.
What is that “single spark of individuality” in you that makes you different, have you ever given thought to what it is?
Have a great day,
Kenny
December 2005
"Doing the right thing will lead to peace of mind." This is an outline from my message on Dec. 4th, 2005 at LGBC based on Matthew 1:18-25.
1. Purpose in your heart to do what is right. – v.19
a. Dan. 1:8 “purposed in his heart” in other words, Discipline. One thing that can lead to a righteous life is discipline.
b. Privately
2. Integrity is a learned quality – Is. 1:17
a. Have a good role model – Ps. 37:37; Ruth 2:8-13
b. Have an accountability/support friend – “A friend loveth at all times.”
3. Listen to what God says – vs. 20,21
a. He may use messengers
b. He speaks through His word – the question isn’t if God knows, the question is will you obey.
4. Be respectful – vs. 19
5. Remember God is in control; turn the outcome over to Him. V.22,23
A Renewed Vision and Inspiration. Romans 12:1 “Present your bodies a living sacrifice…..
Sometimes we find ourselves in a rut. Ministry goes on and we see God blessing and working but the inspiration that drives what we do seems to fade. It’s OK to feel that way at times. Paul tells us that he appreciated the encouragement from his co-workers over the years of his ministry and so I’d like to encourage you.
This is my story in recent months as I have been re-inspired by my Mission’s vision to disciple South Americans for Christ.
Most of you already know about SAM’s history and its beginnings. I never really gave it too much thought before, nor did I find it all that inspiring, but that has all changed recently.
A book surfaced to my attention that I didn’t know existed and I encourage you to read it as soon as possible. It was written in 1931 by Mrs. Arthur Tylee, “The Challenge of the Amazon’s Indians.” Mrs. Tylee is the widow of SAM’s missionary martyr Arthur Tylee who served among the Nambiquara Indians. The book describes the long and arduous travel into the interior of Brazil and the glorious contacts they made with the Nambiquara Indians. It has captivated me and renewed my passion to God’s work in South America.
What makes this so special? Many organizations today hang their hat per se on the history of their “own” martyrs. Martyrdom has always inspired me because of the willingness and sacrifice of the individual to die for their faith. Not only does it inspire me but God is certainly pleased as we see their special role in eternity. We won’t miss who they are because they will be the ones in robes of white. [Rev. 6:11]
Today the challenges are not the same as in the 30’s, 40’ or even the 50’s. The chances of becoming a martyr today in Latin America are slim by definition of what occurred to Arthur Tylee and his family.
But that shouldn’t water down the sacrifice that missionaries are making today, sacrifices that require them to “carry their cross.”
Today SAM has many missionaries worthy of honor. The recent death of Tom Young has brought grief but also joy knowing that God used him for His glory and honor. His book “Rainbow in the Dark” is also an inspiring message of the seeds planted years ago.
And then there is you. You may never get a book written about your life, but nonetheless you are just as noteworthy and important.
I am reminded by the verse that says “If we live, we live to the Lord, and if we die, we die to the Lord. So then, whether we live or whether we die, we are the Lord's.” Rom 14:8
By continuing the vision to disciple South Americans for Christ, we both honor them and our Savior Jesus Christ.
Kenny Krestan
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