Dear one,
For years I have been influenced if not regularly motivated by the language of Genesis 12, “blessed to be a blessing.” When that phrase germinated in my heart and mind, I do not know; but certainly by the time we first ventured to Malawi (2013), it had rooted deeply. That is, these first and subsequent experiences reinforced this truth: I have been given much and therefore have much to give.
Oh, within our American context, the gifts I bear might not be great; but where poverty and its impact are encountered at most every turn, they can greatly aid. Of course, in such settings much I cannot contribute: I have no medical, engineering, legal, administrative, financial, and/or agricultural expertise; and yet, I am convinced that pastors within these settings long for a listening, encouraging heart. This I can provide. Moreover, with the monetary contributions of a number of you, we are able to provide these pastors an opportunity of refreshment: mutual camaraderie and laughter amid singing, praying, and delving more deeply into the Scriptures. Blessed to be a blessing …
Yesterday, as I pondered afresh that phrase, I was reminded of Paul’s introductory words to those in Roman, whom he had yet to meet:
“For I am longing to see you so that I may share with you some spiritual gift to strengthen you—or rather so that we may be mutually encouraged by each other's faith, both yours and mine” (Romans 1:11-12).
Such was Paul’s desire: to be mutually encouraged, and this I have found to be my experience as well. When en route to Romania, Uganda, or Malawi, my desire is not that I might be blessed, but rather to encourage. Nevertheless, I find that I am greatly encouraged by those I seek to teach and lead—mutually blessed. Often the pastors in these countries look upon me quizically, wondering how it is that they have much of anything to give to me, and yet they do. As I observe their faithfulness, their perseverence, their care for their flocks, and their hope in circumstances that would overwhelm this American, I marvel, perhaps substantiating Dietrich Bonhoeffer’s observation:
“The Christ in [my] own heart is weaker than the Christ in the word of [my brother or sister]; [my] own heart is uncertain, [their’s] is sure.”[1]
I am blessed, and I am certain you are likewise.
Stan
Ps. The cost of our 2019 Malawi retreats exceeds our budget by $300; and I’ve been invited to return to Romania in October, an opportunity, at $1550 for airfare, we did not anticipate for 2019. If you can give to these, please use the form provided in this website. I/we/they will be blessed.
[1]Life Together, (New York and Evanston: Harper and Row, Publishers, 1954), p.23.