We recently completed the annual mission conference at our sending church, Buford Road Baptist, which was the highlight of our furlough. Surely, every missionary feels this way about their sending church but allow me to state the obvious.
No other event on the church calendar receives as much attention nor requires as much planning as does the Mission Conference. Dr. J Tony Kohout Jr and his staff very carefully consider each missionary family in prayer before inviting them to participate. Every detail is considered from being the greatest blessing for each member of the missionary family to exposing each church member to the importance of missions. The end result is a desire to see the missions program grow each with an increase in giving so the ministry can stretch further around the world.
The first meal and orientation on Saturday is always an indication as to what the week will be like. Well planned, organized, and uplifting. Each day featured a different missionary. While there was always reason to rejoice at what God was doing through the ministry of each missionary the reality that there is still a great work to be accomplished was made clear. As active members of Buford Road Baptist we have the privilege to support each of the missionaries featured this year.
Sujo John is a dynamic evangelist who preaches all over America but also in India. He has a burden to rescue young people who are victims of human trafficking. I truly believe that this problem is greater than we realize and touches every society around the world. Roy and Patti Pierce with Amazing Grace Mission represent our church in fairs and conventions all over the east coast. They have seen many profess Christ as saviour and always seek a local church to follow up with the individuals who made decisions. This method has proven itself to be effective. It was exciting to hear of stories where some have returned a year later to share their testimony of how God has changed their lives. The Burgeys to South Africa were a new family to our church this year. They too had a powerful testimony and burden for the oprhaned of South Africa. We were reminded that the Great Commission includes discipleship. Through the ministry of orphanages it is possible to see young people give their lives to Christ. The result would be their service in a local church or even becoming missionaries themselves.
The conclusion of the week is the apex. There are presentations to each missionary with gifts that are far more than we deserve but very helpful to each individual considering their wants and needs. Then the members form a circle around the sanctuary with candles. The pastor lights the two candles closest to him and the light spreads. What is most amazing is to see how quickly the darkened room is illuminated with the light from each candle burning. This year I watched as some candles' flame burnt out; others reached out to them to reignite their light. Our light has definitely been brightened.
We return in two months to Croatia with the Light of Christ burning brighter in our lives. We will rekindle the lights that may have dimmed in our abscence and to share the Light chasing the darkness that has overtaken the country. "Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven." Matthew 5:16
Our Latest Video
It has been a busy 10 days for us. But that is another blog post. We wanted to share with you our latest video. You can follow the following link:
http://vimeo.com/71760269
We would like to thank Bro Kyle Hake for the work he put into taking our pile of digital files, sorting through them, getting a sense of our burden, then putting all together in a format for which we lack the ability to do effectively.
We would like to thank you for your continued interest in our ministry. Check back soon for another update.
In Christ,
Bro Kevin
http://vimeo.com/71760269
We would like to thank Bro Kyle Hake for the work he put into taking our pile of digital files, sorting through them, getting a sense of our burden, then putting all together in a format for which we lack the ability to do effectively.
We would like to thank you for your continued interest in our ministry. Check back soon for another update.
In Christ,
Bro Kevin
Still Focused on Croatia
My last two posts read more like a devotion or Bible study but rest assured; we are still focused on reaching Croatia with the message of the gospel. Our time on furlough has been productive both financially and spiritually. We have been able to look back at our experience on the field for the sake of learning. This "personal study" of the life of Joseph has helped me keep everything in proper perspective.
While things were somewhat different from what we expected; the end result is a positive outlook. Overall our first term has kept us humble for every accomplishment was by God's grace alone through the work of the Holy Spirit. We are actually thankful for the each and every difficulty because it opened doors of opportunity or put us in a better position to be witness for Christ.
Some of the lessons learned are these:
Our inability to use the language as we had hoped enabled us to develop strong relations with our neighbors. They have been happy to help and we have come to trust them. We have shared the gospel with them repeatedly and believe that in God's timing we will see them come to trust Jesus as Savior.
We knew it would be difficult to see people come to trust Christ as Savior. So much so that at times we became weary of the message being rejected. However, the Holy Spirit is at work. It was wonderful to see Him work in the heart of those who did take that step of faith with us.
God is providing for us financially as we have seen an 11% increase in support over where we were this time last year. Clearly there is a work to be done in Croatia and we are supposed to be a part of it.
Thanks for your prayers for us during this time of furlough. Each day that passes brings more excitement about our return in October. Stay tuned for more lessons from Joseph. I pray that you too will learn from his example and follow the Lord's leading for your life - especially if it includeds you coming to Croatia to work with us.
While things were somewhat different from what we expected; the end result is a positive outlook. Overall our first term has kept us humble for every accomplishment was by God's grace alone through the work of the Holy Spirit. We are actually thankful for the each and every difficulty because it opened doors of opportunity or put us in a better position to be witness for Christ.
Some of the lessons learned are these:
Our inability to use the language as we had hoped enabled us to develop strong relations with our neighbors. They have been happy to help and we have come to trust them. We have shared the gospel with them repeatedly and believe that in God's timing we will see them come to trust Jesus as Savior.
We knew it would be difficult to see people come to trust Christ as Savior. So much so that at times we became weary of the message being rejected. However, the Holy Spirit is at work. It was wonderful to see Him work in the heart of those who did take that step of faith with us.
God is providing for us financially as we have seen an 11% increase in support over where we were this time last year. Clearly there is a work to be done in Croatia and we are supposed to be a part of it.
Thanks for your prayers for us during this time of furlough. Each day that passes brings more excitement about our return in October. Stay tuned for more lessons from Joseph. I pray that you too will learn from his example and follow the Lord's leading for your life - especially if it includeds you coming to Croatia to work with us.
Humility; a Life-long Lesson
For me, a humble spirit, is the most difficult attitude in life to maintain. Perhaps you do not struggle the same as I do with pride. God often has to humble me because I lack the ability to do it myself. When this battle rages Joseph usually comes to mind.
When he was captured by his brothers in Genesis 37:18-22, he had to know that they intended to kill him. The Bible states that his brothers could not even talk to him peacefully (37:4). I believe that when Joseph realized that his life had been spared it was a turning point for him. He would have had to look at life differently. Humility is not easily learned. Yet when it is learned the impact on one's life is huge. The evidence of Joseph's humble spirit is found in Potiphar's house. Joseph had gained the trust of his master. All of Potiphar's possessions were in the care of Joseph except one: his wife. His response to this woman reveals how humble Joseph really was in spite of the position that he held (Genesis 39:7-9).
Don't get ahead of me! The rest of the story is yet another lesson. There were boundaries in which Joseph respected. He did not let his position affect his thinking to the extent that he took advantage of people. Joseph came to terms with his position as slave and remembered how he got there. It changed his life for the good. God continued to bless him. And, Joseph continued to learn.
What are your circumstances today? Have you found yourself in a place where you least expected? Are you fighting against the circumstances that caused the trouble or are you learning from the situation and moving on. Analyze your circumstances differently. Realize there is a lesson to learn that you will need to succeed later. Let me encourage you to learn it now because the instruction/circumstances will not get easier until you do. My prayer for you is to succeed in the place where God has placed you with great humility.
Learning to Forgive and Asking for Forgiveness (Still)
Genesis 50:15-21; Romans 8:28
Someone asked once, "Who would you most like to be if you lived during Bible times?" My answer, although reluctant, was Joseph. No, I am not claiming to be anything like Joseph or even coming close to any of his experiences. However, he exemplified remarkable character. How many people do you know would still stand strong and be in a position for God to use mightily for His Will after enduring the things which Joseph did? It is highly recommended that you read the account of his life in Genesis Chapters 37, 29-50.
As Christians we face events of our past which have impacted who we are today. We are redeemed and set free from the bondage of sin; yet all too often our past haunts us. Therefore, I find myself returning to the story of Joseph and his brothers. There is a need to forgive the actions of others. But most importantly there is a need to seek the forgiveness for actions against others. When faced with this decision one can find themself discouraged, weak, vulnerable, reluctant. or abstinent. The result is ineffectivenss, backslidden, rebellion, and being out of the Will of God. The amount of time lost because of this is unkown. Perhaps some never enter or return to the ministry.
My challenge today and every day is to forgive and seek forgiveness. Avoid the temptation to let bitterness control actions and reactions. Keep EVERYTHING in the proper perspective. No matter how difficutl an experience may be there is always a valuable lesson to be learned. Sometimes we need refresher courses.
My challenge today and every day is to forgive and seek forgiveness. Avoid the temptation to let bitterness control actions and reactions. Keep EVERYTHING in the proper perspective. No matter how difficutl an experience may be there is always a valuable lesson to be learned. Sometimes we need refresher courses.
Our Dream
When we began researching about Croatia about eight years ago we learned about the many islands off its coast. The idea of a ministry on an island in the Adriatic sea was a passing thought. Whenever the subject would come up in conversation we would joke about it: "Wouldn't that be awesome? I know, right?" Until today. What was a dream yesterday is now potentially a reality.
My brother Curt Brown and his wife Melinda are missionaries partnering with Manna Worldwide who are concentrating in Eastern Europe. We are looking for opportunities to partner together in Croatia and seeking the Lord's leading in the matter. Last month Curt met a man talking about a Croatian island for sale. The only person to contact was me of course.
Bob Hines has been searching for the island but without success. After talking with him briefly we realized that he had the wrong spelling of the name. Not only were we able to get the correct spelling but we also located it, and an agency to contact about investment opportunities. What is most exciting about this opportunity is that people already travel to Croatia from all over the world. At this time the coastline is Croatia's biggest commodity. The potential for a Christian camp to spread the seed of the gospel around the world is huge. Quite possibly beyond what we could imagine.
You should take a moment to view the island and its location. Then pray, seriously for God to direct us to the next step and for doors to open. While you are praying you should also ask God what your participation should be. In the very near future you may find yourself on a mission trip to Croatia with the purpose of having an eternal impact on the life a someone who might never have heard the gospel anywhere else.
I leave you with this question: "Is it just a dream?"
The island of Obonjan
My brother Curt Brown and his wife Melinda are missionaries partnering with Manna Worldwide who are concentrating in Eastern Europe. We are looking for opportunities to partner together in Croatia and seeking the Lord's leading in the matter. Last month Curt met a man talking about a Croatian island for sale. The only person to contact was me of course.
Bob Hines has been searching for the island but without success. After talking with him briefly we realized that he had the wrong spelling of the name. Not only were we able to get the correct spelling but we also located it, and an agency to contact about investment opportunities. What is most exciting about this opportunity is that people already travel to Croatia from all over the world. At this time the coastline is Croatia's biggest commodity. The potential for a Christian camp to spread the seed of the gospel around the world is huge. Quite possibly beyond what we could imagine.
You should take a moment to view the island and its location. Then pray, seriously for God to direct us to the next step and for doors to open. While you are praying you should also ask God what your participation should be. In the very near future you may find yourself on a mission trip to Croatia with the purpose of having an eternal impact on the life a someone who might never have heard the gospel anywhere else.
I leave you with this question: "Is it just a dream?"
The island of Obonjan
Renewed Vigor
We just finished a mission conference at Emmanuel Baptist in Harstville, SC. Pastor Gary Colboch and his wife Flora have been wonderfully blessed with a church family that shares their passion for missions. During the conference, we ourselves were challenged to draw closer to God then analyze our resources to see if we could do more for missions.
The end of the conference came too quickly. The church gave beyond our needs and met even most of our wants. It is always humbling to see people willing to give so much. Our passion for the lost of Croatia is renewed everytime a church gives toward our needs because we are held accountable for each investment. Each investment will result in eternal reward because the promise of God's Word.
Another reason this conference made such a lasting impression is the new friends we made. They want to come and visit us in Croatia. Lives were changed this last week in Harstville, SC; but God is not finished working within these individuals. When we return to Croatia in October we will begin preparing for their visit. They will see first hand how God is using their investment. When they return home it will be with renewed vigor as well.
The end of the conference came too quickly. The church gave beyond our needs and met even most of our wants. It is always humbling to see people willing to give so much. Our passion for the lost of Croatia is renewed everytime a church gives toward our needs because we are held accountable for each investment. Each investment will result in eternal reward because the promise of God's Word.
Another reason this conference made such a lasting impression is the new friends we made. They want to come and visit us in Croatia. Lives were changed this last week in Harstville, SC; but God is not finished working within these individuals. When we return to Croatia in October we will begin preparing for their visit. They will see first hand how God is using their investment. When they return home it will be with renewed vigor as well.
Another Opportunity
We were surprised last week to receive a call from someone with a connection to Croatia. There is a group of people who live in a small village approx 45 min. drive from where we live in Cakovec. By God's grace they contacted a tract company in America for some information about Christ. After receiving a sample of tracts and studying them each of them made a profession of faith in Christ. Their response is that their is not a church in their village which teaches this Truth so they desire to start one.
We have contact information for them and have shared this information with our co-workers in Cakovec. Very soon they will be in contact with them personally. Please pray for this opportunity to plant another church with nationals who now have a burden to reach their community with the Truth of the Gospel.
We have contact information for them and have shared this information with our co-workers in Cakovec. Very soon they will be in contact with them personally. Please pray for this opportunity to plant another church with nationals who now have a burden to reach their community with the Truth of the Gospel.
A Very Productive Week
Here in Hampton, VA we had some snow to fall last night. It mainly stuck to the grass and on roofs. At this time most of it has already melted. The excitement for Erin, Ally, and Noah was enough for Kristina and I to delay today's homeschool lessons for two hours. We threw a few snowballs then cleaned off the mini-van. Then I took some time to review how this week has gone.
By God's grace I was able to schedule two more Mission Conferences, reschedule two meetings to allow for two more. On Wednesday Pastor Lloyd Donica of Bethel Baptist Church invited me to speak in the chapel service for the Jr & Sr High students. What a blessing to share some experiences and a message from God's Word to a group of eager and attentive students. After chapel Pastor Donica and I were able to get to know one another over a cup of coffee. While there He introduced me to another Pastor in the area with whom we may be able to schedule another meeting. Pastor Donica also expressed wanting to learn more about our ministry in Croatia with a desire to partner with us in the future.
Today we are rejoicing that God is opening doors for us here in the states. The open doors here will provide means to return to Croatia well equipped for the work that God has for us there. To those of you who pray for our ministry; thank you. God has certainly answered your prayers.
By God's grace I was able to schedule two more Mission Conferences, reschedule two meetings to allow for two more. On Wednesday Pastor Lloyd Donica of Bethel Baptist Church invited me to speak in the chapel service for the Jr & Sr High students. What a blessing to share some experiences and a message from God's Word to a group of eager and attentive students. After chapel Pastor Donica and I were able to get to know one another over a cup of coffee. While there He introduced me to another Pastor in the area with whom we may be able to schedule another meeting. Pastor Donica also expressed wanting to learn more about our ministry in Croatia with a desire to partner with us in the future.
Today we are rejoicing that God is opening doors for us here in the states. The open doors here will provide means to return to Croatia well equipped for the work that God has for us there. To those of you who pray for our ministry; thank you. God has certainly answered your prayers.
Where We've Been
It has been far too long since my last blog post; but blogging was the last thing on my mind. All of October was preparing for our first furlough: saying good-bye's to neighbors and friends, scheduling meetings, packing, etc., So now we are here and wishing we were still in Croatia.
We were privileged to spend Thanksgiving with my family in Marietta, GA. Christmas and the New Year were celebrated in VA with Kristina's family and our sending church. While it has been fun, it has also been slightly difficult adjusting to life on the road again. By God's grace we all had grown to love and appreciate our home in Croatia. We dearly miss our friends.
While in Richmond, VA it was a blessing to be able to help Pastor Kohout and our sending church: making visits, phone calls, performing a wedding, and preaching. We have reported on our ministry in three of our supporting churches: Sharon Baptist of Hampton, Victory Baptist of Hampton, and Battlefield Baptist of Warrenton. In February we will be traveling to GA, SC, VA, WV, and TX. Please pray as we drive that God will keep us safe.
I am also happy to announce that God has provided tremendously for our ministry. Our sending church, Buford Road Baptist, Richmond, has collected a love offering that covers 50% of our costs for the return flight to Croatia. An anonymous donation will cover 50% of the expected cost toward a vehicle in Croatia. Praise the Lord to have received so much toward our goal this early in our furlough. It would be wonderful to be able to return to Croatia earlier than October. Please pray that God will continue to provide the much needed support.
Lord willing we will have more consistent access to the internet and I can begin blogging more often. Thank you all for your continued interest in our ministry. We sense your prayers.
We were privileged to spend Thanksgiving with my family in Marietta, GA. Christmas and the New Year were celebrated in VA with Kristina's family and our sending church. While it has been fun, it has also been slightly difficult adjusting to life on the road again. By God's grace we all had grown to love and appreciate our home in Croatia. We dearly miss our friends.
While in Richmond, VA it was a blessing to be able to help Pastor Kohout and our sending church: making visits, phone calls, performing a wedding, and preaching. We have reported on our ministry in three of our supporting churches: Sharon Baptist of Hampton, Victory Baptist of Hampton, and Battlefield Baptist of Warrenton. In February we will be traveling to GA, SC, VA, WV, and TX. Please pray as we drive that God will keep us safe.
I am also happy to announce that God has provided tremendously for our ministry. Our sending church, Buford Road Baptist, Richmond, has collected a love offering that covers 50% of our costs for the return flight to Croatia. An anonymous donation will cover 50% of the expected cost toward a vehicle in Croatia. Praise the Lord to have received so much toward our goal this early in our furlough. It would be wonderful to be able to return to Croatia earlier than October. Please pray that God will continue to provide the much needed support.
Lord willing we will have more consistent access to the internet and I can begin blogging more often. Thank you all for your continued interest in our ministry. We sense your prayers.
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