Musings on Ministry in 2009

"But we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us"--2 Corinthians 4:7

God does not hide His valuables under a mattress. In spite of the global banking crisis, stock market downturn, and diminishing "return on equity," He continues to delight in His children and deposit His treasure in them! Pam and I have experienced the thrill of this Divine economy since returning after Christmas break. Our Lord has opened up new doors of ministry and used us in ways we could only dream about a year ago. Opportunities still have their challenges, but the sensation of being used by the Omnipotent God is quite a rush!

The "rush," however, is accompanied with a "reminder." God's "strong box" is just a clay pot. Our human frailty is all too evident, even when we minister. Oh, we have been generally healthy during these last few months. Nevertheless, the evidence of "clay pot-ness" is a constant companion.

We want to share with you what gives us the "rush" and what taps us on the shoulder as a "reminder."

The Cuba Connection (Floyd's comments)

January and February have finally brought the last year of "negotiating" for the M.A. in Bible in Cuba to a conclusion. With the help of Josue Fernandez, the Latin American representative of Overseas Council International, I have been able to reach a wonderful solution to the curriculum issues and logistics of the M.A. program on that island nation. The leaders of Los Pinos Nuevos Seminary in Santa Clara, Cuba, will coordinate the M.A. from the Cuban side, while I will help with the coordination of professors and visiting lecturers from outside of Cuba. The curriculum is a solid M.A. in Bible, taught in modules spread out over a three-year period. With requirements for Greek and/or Hebrew to do exegesis of Bible books, and with culturally sensitive course additions in Latin American theology, we have a workable plan of action. Best of all, the Cuban seminary leaders took the initiative on curriculum design and scheduling its implementation. Any of us from outside of Cuba will participate as "visiting professors."

Now the good news is that we should kick off the program in April and May--a few short weeks away! Professors from Guatemala, Costa Rica, and Colombia--along with Cuban national professors--will be giving the instruction in 2009. I have been invited by the Cuban brothers to give a course in May! This is a real "rush" to be part of this international team effort.

But the "clay-ness" remains: pray for the processing of our visa request by the Cuban government. We are trusting God for an encouraging word soon. Our applications from last year had to be redone and resubmitted. All this took place in January. So we are in our "waiting" phase. Out of our control, but not out of His control! So PRAY!

Ministry opportunities in Costa Rica are multiplying as well. I have been invited to preach twice in Costa Rican churches. God is good, and He has helped me express myself reasonably well in Spanish. There is always room for improvement, and so we keep reaching for heights not yet attained. I am teaching two courses this term at ESEPA Seminary, Biblical Theology and Exegesis of John. As always, the teacher is learning much more than the students--but that is not a bad thing.

Pam's Perspective

My "clay-ness" is clearly seen in Spanish learning. When I arrived here in November 07, I began praying for something to do in ministry. I soon realized that though I could speak a little and counsel some, I talked like a 4 year old--and that does not work very well for teaching. I began praying and working hard on my Spanish, studying daily for 2 to 3 hours and working with a tutor 2 times a week. Plus I would talk to anyone in Spanish who would listen!

At last, I am pleased to announce that the Lord opened up a door to teach a Bible study for women in Spanish. I was excited but a bit anxious as to what I would sound like. Well, on February 10, I began a Women's Bible Study in I Juan, meeting Tuesday afternoons at the same place where I teach English to Spanish-speakers on Wednesdays. Another missionary friend is coming alongside me to assist with the class and teach from time to time as well. I have taught now for 2 weeks, and I am amazed. Why? Frankly, it's because of the Lord's goodness in helping me actually talk in Spanish and teach His Word. I absolutely love it. (There's the "rush.")

I am also amazed at how many funny things I say! (And there is the "reminder" of clay-ness.) I actually told the Spanish ladies to remember to bring their Bibles next time and their "pigs." ("Notebooks" are "cuadernos," a word very close to the word for "pig" which is "cerdos"!) Can you believe it! Yes, this is my "clay-ness" and yet, wow, that God would choose to use me--I am amazed!

We have had some interesting talks. Costa Rican (Tica) women love to respond and share their thoughts and feelings. One lady mentioned that she was glad that God had pardoned her as mentioned in I John, and that God does it. She told me that since she was raised in another religion here in Costa Rica, she would often go and confess to a man. She did not tell him the really bad things she had done, but only the "less bad" things. At any rate, it did not matter anyway, because the man usually was not listening to her. She was so glad God listens, and if we confess, He will forgive us. How joyful she was. Well, there are some victories, some failures, some funny things said, but at the end of the day, God enjoys using our weakness, our "clay-ness" for His glory.

Communications
If you would like to communicate with us, we would love to hear from you. Write us at felmore2@yahoo.com. Let us know how you are doing and be sure to share your pray requests with us as well.

"Un fuerte abrazo a todos" ( a big hug for all),
Floyd and Pam