March '02

Dear family and friends,

  As I travel the country I've noticed many billboards, signs, storefronts, Marques etc. spelling the words, "United We Stand". Everywhere we go everyday we see those words giving the message of unity. I love the words of Palms 133:1, "How good and pleasant it is when brothers live together in unity!" Why has it taken a nation so long to finally grasp this message? It seems that every great move of God, every great miracle, every life-impacting event is birthed out of a specific tragedy or experience. This is why we share the gospel. Through the tragedy and triumph of the cross Jesus brought unity for all people to have access to the father. The cross bridges the gap. I am reminded that I am a gap closer. God uses this ministry to close the gap and unify this generation with the great message of hope.

  This past month has been a great month of ministry. I have seen the hand of God close the gap of hurts and pains and brought deliverance and salvation to many students. We are entering our spring schedule with a determination and greater passion in reaching young people in school assemblies, spring retreats, crusades and Illustrated Drama Presentations.

  So many times as parents we find ourselves wandering, just where exactly will our children be placed in this big puzzle of life we are in. Sometimes our human state of mind wants to just take over and plan out our children's future. It's always so encouraging the older Carli gets to see how much see enjoys getting involved in the outreaches. This past week was a true opportunity for us to see character being built in her. Jaroy was ministering in an outreach for kids that were truly unchurched. I think it would be fair to say; these kids were on the extreme side of rebellion. In most cases any small child would have been largely intimidated just by their immediate impression. However, Carli got right in the middle of them, just as Jesus would have done. She never passed any judgment on them. She has since really had them on her heart and her prayer is that they will never forget the outreach that taught them, in her words, "how to have a clean heart with Jesus and be happy."

  We really need you to unify with us as a great team who will pray and "stand in the gap" this month. Would you consider fasting some meals for this ministry? We have many great opportunities this spring and summer. We need you more than ever. I really need you to give to support this ministry. As I have said before, this is a specific God called youth outreach ministry. We depend on your support. Please help fulfill our calling. Every prayer you pray, every dollar you give will change a young life, make a better society and impact heaven. Please do what you can this month. We desperately need you. "United We Stand".