"SET THE SAILS. . .AND WE WILL PRAY"

In 1854, Hudson Taylor was on a ship heading toward China when the ship was pulled by a current toward a rocky, perilous coastline, and, as there was no wind, the ship could not set their sails to steer them away. The captain asked Hudson to pray for a wind that could save them from dashing into the rocks, Hudson told the captain, first set he sails, then we will pray. The hesitant crew set the sails, and Hudson prayed in his room. God sent a wind, filling the sails, and the ship was saved.

We love this picture of "setting the sails," preparing for the work God will do through us, and then praying for God to do His work through us. As we work with fellow believers, would-be missionaries, dedicated to sharing the Gospel across the world with the Least Reached, we are working to help them "set their sails" for the work that God has prepared for them. This includes training and mentoring them through preparing their support team, continuing in missions education, preparing presentations, and learning to partner with those they will work alongside on the field. 

Blessings!.
An appointee recently sat before a missions committee.
They began with the statement:  "We'll listen, but, we have no funds."
The appointee shared God's calling on their life and vision for ministry.
The meeting ended with:  "We will support you starting today at..." 

This past year has confirmed God's call as we have seen many appointees start their ministry all over the world. Numbers don't tell the story, but, they're a part of it: We're working with 50 appointees and another 9 who are on the field, but, finishing some requirements. We were thrilled last month to know Converge continues to plan and grow to reach more for Christ!

We are praising God for many generous givers who have helped us reach 80% of our support need. We are asking God to raise up more donors (churches and individuals), who can commit to a regular pledged amount to our ministry.

John and Lori De Cleene
decleene@websprinter.net