In a world that idolizes productivity and optimization, rest feels counterintuitive. After all, since the fall of man, every human desires to be self-sufficient and autonomous. True biblical rest on the other hand, demands an acknowledgment of our limitations. The challenge we face as pastors is that most of the things fighting for our time are good or God things. So in order to rest, we have to learn to say no to good things.
One of the implications of this beautiful truth is that we are shaped by the things that we feed our eyes and ears with. When that is Christ, the Gospel, and the Word, this is of great benefit for the believer. This implication however cuts both ways, meaning that when we set our eyes, our ears, and our hearts on things other than Christ, that is what shapes our loves, desires, and imaginations.
In a world that idolizes productivity and optimization, rest feels counterintuitive. After all, since the fall of man, every human desires to be self-sufficient and autonomous. True biblical rest on the other hand, demands an acknowledgment of our limitations. The challenge we face as pastors is that most of the things fighting for our time are good or God things. So in order to rest, we have to learn to say no to good things.
One of the implications of this beautiful truth is that we are shaped by the things that we feed our eyes and ears with. When that is Christ, the Gospel, and the Word, this is of great benefit for the believer. This implication however cuts both ways, meaning that when we set our eyes, our ears, and our hearts on things other than Christ, that is what shapes our loves, desires, and imaginations.
I recently returned from a visit to Hosanna Church of Rivne, Ukraine. It was a wonderful weekend of celebrating their 30th Anniversary as a local church. 30 years corresponds with the time of their freedom from Soviet rule, which didn’t allow a church like Hosanna to exist.
Most of my time their was spent in observation and contemplation. Hosanna has a “culture.” The reality is that every local church, every household, and yes, even on an individual level, we all create a “culture” or atmosphere.
Hosanna Church has a culture of gratitude, honor and generosity. They were overwhelmed by the goodness of God over their 30 years. They gave meaningful tribute and honor to their leaders. They gave what they could toward the ongoing work of a building for their ministry to their city. I could say a lot more about these three “culture” attributes. But experiencing these three cultural qualities of the people of Hosanna Church led me to consider, “What is the culture I am seeking to create?” A local church culture is the combined attributes of all of its members. Sometimes it isn’t easily articulated in words, but its felt, or experienced, sometimes before you even enter the doors.
So, what kind of church culture do you want to be a part of? If you had to choose three things to be known for in your local church, what would they be, and more importantly, what is your part to create that culture? In a time where the cultural air is so toxic, condemning, accusing, and so full of negativity, what can we do to create a culture that is counter what this world offers?
Those words come from Acts 2:45, which describes what life was like in the church in Jerusalem in those early days after the Holy Spirit was poured out. There are many evidences of the Spirit’s work in people, but one of the clearest demonstrations of the Spirit’s work within the hearts of the early church was how they took care of one another.
Within Grace Partnership we have some opportunities to care for believers in other parts of the world on a regular basis. In fact, it is our tangible care that flows from glad and generous hearts that makes our relationship demonstrable. It is our faith at work.
Right now at Casa de Esperanza, what we like to consider “our orphanage”, there are some specific needs. The government is requiring some renovations to their main kitchen. We can attest to the need from our last visit. New drainage, flooring and work areas are needed, as well as a new stove and refrigerator.
Additionally, the main road through the orphanage is a constant struggle, as the heavy rains regularly wash out the road. We want to assist in a more lasting solution than simply refilling the road with dirt and gravel that will simply get washed away. With the heavy rains comes flooding and erosion that makes for added challenges around the property. We hope to send a short term missions team to assist with the work!
Finally, a dear little girl is in need of surgery for a cleft lip. We want to make that surgery possible as soon as possible!
A little north of Bolivia is the country of Colombia. We are working with 9 churches across the country. One of them is Iglesia Cristiana Sublime Gracia. It is in the community of Soledad, just outside of Barranquilla. It is hot all year, and very humid. The church needs two air conditioning units to adequately ventilate the facility. We want to give them the opportunity to worship, fellowship and listen to a sermon without sweating!
There is more we could share, but you get the idea. We think of the early church, and how, full of the Spirit, they would respond to such needs. The monthly giving of Grace Partnership supporters makes these things possible, but these needs above present a special opportunity for one time gifts should you feel led to do so. We could accomplish all of these things together!
You can go to the “Give” link and designate a one time gift to any or all of these needs. It’s one way we declare out love and assure that our brothers and sisters around the world know that they are not alone!
There is a beautiful pattern flowing from the letters to the churches in the New Testament. Independent and local churches, large and small, were not alone. A relational partnership, not a hierarchy, was the fabric of the early church.
Within Grace Partnership we long for the same. Relationships, as even those New Testament letters make clear, can be messy. Things don’t always go the way we’d like. Hardships and disagreements arise. So, is the answer autonomy, “shelter in place”, or, independence? No. The answer is to pursue the grace of God that so often comes through relationship with one another.
Just as people will wither in isolation, so does the local church. Grace Partnership desires to see strong and established local churches, but not “alone” local churches. We are trying to play our small part in building a partnership of mutual joy, love and affection so that relationships are strengthened, leaders are encouraged, and the gospel advances.
After a weekend visit with Grace Community Church of Corning, New York, what a joy to say the same thing Paul would say to a local church, “I thank my God always in every prayer of mine, making my prayer with joy, because of your partnership in the gospel, from the first day until now.” - Philippians 1:3-4
Are you a local pastor or leader desiring this kind of relationship? Reach out to us! We’d love to get the conversation started.
I asked some the pastors and friends of Grace Partnership to share a book with us they are currently reading. Sometimes it’s the suggestion of a friend that spurs us on to keep reading, studying, and growing. Each of the books listed below are currently in the reading diet of pastors who are a part of or considering partnering with Grace Partnership. May the list below inspire your reading and discipleship!
“The Apostles’ Creed: Discovering Authentic Christianity in an Age of Counterfeits” by Al Mohler
“I am reading this book to strengthen my grip on the gospel truths on historic Christianity and why Creeds are important and necessary for believers today. Creeds separate truth from lies and real from fake. I hope to preach a series on this creed soon.” - Phil Courson, Abundant Grace Community Church, Gainesville, FL
“Proverbs” by Eugene H. Peterson
Our friend and pastor Volodymr Lanevych of Hosanna Church, Rivne, Ukraine, shared the following excerpt,
“Wisdom refers to skill in living…those who have acquired wisdom understand how the world works. They know about patience and love, listening and grace, adoration and beauty.”
“We Will Not be Silenced” by Erwin Lutzer
Our friend and pastor Randall Hildreth from Bay Point Christian Church, St. Petersburg, FL comments,
“It’s about the church’s response to socialism. His previous book, The Church in Babylon was very insightful regarding how to be the church in a culture of opposition.”
“LEAD” by Paul Tripp
Chris Jessee, Lead Pastor of Metro Life Church, Casselberry, FL says,
“Paul David Tripp has such a gift for getting to the heart of the matter. Lead is no different. Tripp captures 12 gospel principles for Leadership in the Church and helps strike the balance between concepts of leadership in organizations and theological truths, bringing the two together in the heart of any leader. No matter where you lead or level of leadership (even if it’s just learning to lead yourself…) Lead has core values that you’ll benefit from.”
“Gentle and Lowly: The Heart of Christ for Sinners and Sufferers” by Dane Ortlund.
Pastor Hector Cortes of Iglesia Morada in Orlando, FL says,
“Even though there is some controversy around this book, this book has helped me to ponder on Jesus love and mercy for me. In the aftermath of our sin and in the grief of our suffering, Jesus is never distant and impersonal. I highly recommend this book.”
Pastor Allen Snapp of Grace Community Church, Corning NY adds on this book,
“I too am reading Gentle and Lowly and find it strengthening and encouraging me in my relationship with Jesus. I didn't realize there was controversy over it, but after reading a bit of the criticism, I don't think the controversy is merited. The book is sound theologically and much of it comes from Puritan writings.
It is a book that richly and biblically reminds us of the heart of Christ for us, which is the heart of the Father and the Spirit, and encourages us to draw near to him in faith and assurance.”
“The Portable Seminary” Second Edition, Edited by David Horton
Aron Osborne, Director of Grace Partnership, quotes from the chapter entitled, “The Doctrine of Scripture”, which says,
“In Scripture, as in the person of Jesus Christ, the divine and the human elements are regarded as forming one indissoluble whole, dynamically united. The language is human; the message is divine. The human writers were God’s penmen, not merely his pens.”
Perhaps one or more of these books will make your reading list. Whether you are looking for a devotional or a book for more rigorous study, make reading a part of your daily rhythm.
“Against the Tide: Love in a Time of Petty Dreams and Persisting Enmities” by Miroslav Volf.
Friend and Pastor Jerry Cisar of Gulf Coast Community Church, St. Petersburg, FL reflects,
“It is a collection of his essays which he organized thematically into this book. The subtitle expresses its point well.
Volf is from a part of our family in Christ that we only visit once in a while so in many ways he is refreshing. It’s like reading the same Gospel truths expressed a different way.
These essays are poignant, each one pressing application of the Gospel in a culture that is infused with the self. Since it is a collection, each piece can be read in a brief setting. Keep your highlighter at your side. Expect to be challenged; expect to be stirred in your soul for God.”
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The old English adage teaches us that sometimes a picture (or video) can describe what 1000 words alone cannot do.
May this video inspire you. It’s why Grace Partnership exists! These dear Colombian pastors have never experienced a retreat for their care. And to think it was all possible because of the generosity of one couple, who gladly and freely provided for the costs. These 3 days in Santa Marta, Colombia were priceless. May their generosity inspire yours!
Join us February 25-27 for our annual conference. It’s open to all! www.gracepartnership.net
Recently Phil Courson and I returned from a 4-day trip to Barranquilla, Colombia to visit our partner church, Mision Rescate.
Within Grace Partnership we have a vision to share in Mission, Equipping and Care. These three components of our vision are interconnected, and that was on display during our visit.
Grace Partnership Exists for Mission!
We had the privilege to travel to three towns near the city of Barranquilla. Soledad, Porto Colombia and Santa Thomas are towns that Mision Rescate is actively seeking to bring the Gospel of Jesus Christ through church planting.
We met with Pastor Pierre and his family in Soledad to hear what the Lord is doing in their town. It was such an encouraging time, and I hope you can meet Pastor Pierre at our Grace Partnership Conference.
We traveled to Santa Thomas to see the town and to learn a little of its history. The plan is to begin a Sunday afternoon service in the New Year, where one of the pastors from Mision Rescate will initially serve while training and equipping men who may become elders for the new church.
Phil preached on Sunday afternoon in Porto Colombia to the small gathering of beleivers there. What a joy it was to meet with the church and see their passion for the Lord. We were even able to give a small gift to a newlywed couple for a celebratory dinner. They were so grateful.
Grace Partnership Exists for Equipping!
Thursday and Friday evening during our visit we had 4 teaching sessions with people who are in different equipping tracks within the church. Their hunger for sound doctrine was evident. How sobering and humbling to serve in a small way!
On Saturday morning approximately 100 seminary students gathered in person and several more hundred were live streaming. We taught on the 5 Solas (Christ alone, the Glory of God alone, Scripture alone, Grace alone, Faith alone). We also had a session on the importance of holding our doctrine in humility toward others instead of in a divisive or arrogant way.
After the morning sessions we had a meeting with several pastors expressing interest in wanting to learn more about Grace Partnership. This was followed by a lunch. Several pastors are now building a relationship with us. We look forward to seeing what God will do with these new relationships.
Grace Partnership Exists for Care!
Pastor Jaider turned down two lucrative job offers to serve the church as a full time elder, without knowing where his salary would come from. He and his wife, Quislis, have two children and they live in a small apartment on the edge of the city.
It is common to purchase an apartment that is unfinished, and this was the case for Jaider and Quislis. They did not have the resources to complete the kitchen or bedroom fixtures. Dressers are not common. Typically, a bedroom will have built in armoire’s in Latin America.
We asked what it would cost to complete these things. When we learned that the fixtures and labor would cost under $2500 we felt compelled to share with this family. We arranged to bring dinner, and over dinner Phil and I told them that GP would like to care for them in a specific way, to honor their faith and sacrifice. We gave them a gift of $3000 for finishing the basic needs in their apartment and to have something left for their children for Christmas. They cried many tears of gratitude. They didn’t ask us for anything. We believe it was the Lord’s leading, and it was only possible because of people like you who have vision to give.
Lord willing, you can meet them yourself in 2021! We are discussing a short-term missions team to Barranquilla. Is it time for you to start praying, asking the Lord if you should go?
We hope this report encourages you. Let’s remember; we can’t see all God will do if we aren’t willing to take faith-filled steps. That includes our generosity. As we respond to the needs and opportunities around us God promises to be faithful. And few things bring so much joy to our hearts as when hear the testimonies of how our faithful God provides.
We plan to assist the orphanage students we are partnered with this Christmas, along with the ministries we support in Bolivia. Should you desire to give simple go to the giving link here at www.gracepartnership.net.
God bless you!
Recently I returned from Bolivia. The purpose of the trip was to visit with our ministry partners to hear how they are doing, express meaningful care, and also to discuss ways we can pray and possibly serve in the months ahead. COVID-19 has affected us all in different ways, but we are eager to get back on the ground in service to our ministry partners! Through a generous offering of nearly $19,000 (coming from local churches and individuals who gave) we were able to bring hope and immediate help. Thank you!
Casa de Esperanza
What a privilege to spend time with Chorito and Fidel Cortez, and their son Abdiel. While COVID-19 has brought challenges, it is a joy to report that the orphanage has been spared! Fidel did contract the virus, but he was able to isolate and there was no spread of the virus throughout the orphanage.
Through your generosity we were able to provide CdE with a financial gift to ensure they have a well-stocked pantry before the October 18th elections. The orphanage is in a remote part of Bolivia, with only one main road of access. Blockades of roads are a common response of protest in Bolivia, so it is “normal” to not have supplies arrive for weeks at a time.
We discussed the various projects and needs of the orphanage. It is a large property that needs routine upkeep as well as the repair and response to things that come up that is part of all of our lives. Right now, the main need at the orphanage is water! Currently there is a drought. Please pray for rain. A low water supply affects the orphanage greatly. Additionally, ongoing work is needed to improve, purify and protect the water supply line. New piping that is stronger, cleaner and more secure is needed. This is no small project, as they have approximately 5 kilometers of pipe! Villagers are frequently breaking the supply line to run water to their homes, thus taking the already limited supply of water and diverting it away from the orphanage. This is a delicate situation that needs your prayers. Through prior giving the orphanage has the funds to replace old water faucets with new, water-saving ones. But the water line itself is the first priority.
Road improvements are needed on the main road that runs through the orphanage. When the rains do come, the road gets washed out. A plan for a culvert on one side of the road to divert the water run-off is underway, but it is mostly a physical labor project. This will also include a combination of ground stone and pavers to provide a more stable, yet porous surface. We are considering a team of 6 men (young and not so young!) who would like to help with this project. Maybe you’re one of them! No skill is needed; just a willing heart, a strong back, and a good pair of gloves!
Recently a company based in Switzerland contacted Casa de Esperanza. The company has offices in Bolivia. They wanted to know what needs exist at Casa. Fidel told them they need a new truck. Well, they received a brand-new Mitsubishi pick-up truck! This will serve Casa for years to come!
Please pray for wisdom on how we can continue to partner with Casa de Esperanza. A giving base that they have access to is a pressing need. We are considering how we might be able to become a resource for them in this way. A common challenge they have is that when someone gives to a missionary organization for Casa, Casa may not actually be aware of the donor. They have no way to contact them, give thanks, or provide updates. We’d like to help.
CEC
The Center for Continuing Education is a part of Casa de Esperanza. It is a distinct ministry, but it serves to create some revenue for the orphanage. It is a retreat center and it also hosts its own Bible Training program for pastors, high school students and young adults. During our 2019 missions trip we were able to teach in the training center. Marco Choque serves as the ministry director of CeC. He is a humble, kind, and gracious man. He is also a wise teacher and handles the Word of God in a faithful and sober way. Through this ministry, pastors and young men and women who would have little to no access to Bible training and discipleship are provided an entry into the study of Scripture.
Last year we were able to provide new mattresses for the bunk houses through a generous gift given by a family. On this recent trip I was able to give a gift for the installation of a water purifier and water heater for the kitchen of CeC. They are so grateful! And, if you go on a future missions trip, you will be grateful for a hot shower!
How wonderful that any trip of service we make to Casa de Esperanza has the opportunity to incorporate all three aspects of our shared vision of Mission, Equipping and Care! You’ll be hearing more about this important ministry in the future. We are hopeful that Marco can participate in the 2021 Grace Partnership Conference!
Un Lugar Seguro
Un Lugar Seguro serves teenage girls and young women who are in or trying to come out of abusive situations both physically and sexually. Bolivia leads South America in percentage of women who report abuse. Rampant alcoholism, a machismo spirit, and the highest percentage of pornographic viewing in South America are all contributing factors.
A recent Facebook post by Un Lugar Seguro led to 420 likes and 70 new followers. Of those 70 followers several young girls (ages 18-29) have either begun written communication with ULS, and in some cases, have begun confidential Zoom sessions. In the near future ULS will be able to provide seminars and training for victims, as well as training for volunteers who have a vision for street ministry. Additionally, counseling and connection to resources for help are in the works. A grand vision is to one day have a housing option for women to seek shelter while they transition.
A future missions trip may provide an opportunity to participate in street ministry to victims. Your giving makes possible tangible care in so many ways, including counseling resources in Spanish, education materials that are used in one on one conversations, circulation of print material, and support for free psychological and personal counseling, and, once COVID is no longer hindering meetings, classes and support groups.
Adulam Ministries
In 2018 a Grace Partnership Missions Team was able to serve several days with Fineke Janssen, Director of Adulam Ministries in El Alto, a city on a plateau above the city of La Paz. It takes your breath away, literally! Fineke and her team serve some of the most desperate youth with the nowhere to go, an all too common problem. Through your giving we were able to supply Adulam with needed vitamins and supplements. Health care is virtually non-existent or out of reach for so many in Bolivia. So, things like Zinc, Vitamin D and other vitamins become vital, and with that, price gouging and hording. How wonderful to simply give these needed things along with a financial gift. Because of you!
Ruth Archondo
This report would not be complete without telling you about Ruth Archando. I won’t rewrite my Facebook post here, but what an honor it was to provide her and her family with a financial gift to help her adjust to her life as a widow. Ruth’s husband David, was a pastor in Congregacion Cristiana in La Paz (a church we have related with for over ten years). Ruth is full of grace, hope, faith and strength. I was more served being in her presence than any gift I could have brought to her.
There is so much more to share, but I hope you get a clear picture, and as importantly, are envisioned for the difference your partnership in prayer and generosity makes. Grace Partnership is about local churches coming together to share in Mission, Equipping and Care. All you have read is only possible because you see this biblical vision as something you want to be a part of, and together we did far more than we ever could have on our own. That is the heartbeat of Grace Partnership. What a privilege it is for us all to display the love of Jesus to the poor, the orphan, the widow, the oppressed and the needy…the very ones Jesus came for!
Grace Partnership Conference
Please join us for our 2021 Grace Partnership Conference. This year’s theme is Community: The Gospel on Display. We will focus on the relational call God has given as a partnership of churches, and why that matters. Join us February 25-27, 2021. Registration is coming soon!
God bless you all!
On behalf of Grace Partnership,
Aron Osborne
During a recent Zoom call with 12 other pastors within Grace Partnership I was struck again by the simple yet profound difference encouragement makes in our lives. As we shared the collective things happening within our lives and churches it was a reminder of the life and hope and strength we can pour into one another.
At the end of Paul’s letter to the Ephesians he said, “So that you also may know how I am and what I am doing, Tychicus the beloved brother and faithful minister in the Lord will tell you everything. I have sent him to you for this very purpose, that you may know how we are, and that he may encourage your hearts.” - Ephesians 6:21-22
It makes such a difference, even across the world, to know that we are not alone. I think everyone on the call could attest to how we were encouraged and strengthen in that hour together. Take time to listen. Take time to ask. Take time to hear the stories. Take time to encourage!
