An Extraordinary Event ...

As we celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ we sometimes get lost in the trappings that have attached themselves to this day and forget the extraordinary grace that surrounded the event.

I have a friend who is a pest control man. He searches out and eliminates various types of vermin. He presented an idea that is amazing to me.

Sewer rats live in an environment of slime and filth. They are content to live in the sewer and would be uncomfortable living in our world … forsaking the filth with which they are comfortable.

Wouldn’t it be an extraordinary event if one of us … humans … would decide to go down into the sewer, live with the sewer rats and attempt to better them and their lives with the idea of saving them from their plight and eventually inviting them into our world? Disgusting idea … isn’t it?!

Isaiah had the privilege that only a couple men had of seeing into heaven. He wrote in Chapter 6, verses 1-3, “I saw the Lord seated on a throne, high and exalted, and the train of his robe filled the temple. Above him were seraphs, each with six wings: With two wings they covered their faces, with two they covered their feet, and with two they were flying. And they were calling to one another: ‘Holy, holy, holy is the Lord Almighty; the whole earth is full of his glory.’”

Can we, as humans, wrap our arms around such majesty. Can we imagine the God that created everything and keeps track of everything and is used to bands of creatures continuously praising Him? Many people in the Bible have said that God and Heaven are beyond our ability to reason or even wonder.

Now lets read Philippians 2:5-8, “ … Christ Jesus: Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be grasped, but made himself nothing, taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself and became obedient to death – even death on a cross!”

God looked upon us … sewer rats compared to heaven … and said, “I love you too much to let you perish. I will set aside the glories of heaven and come abide with you … and I will save you from yourselves. In fact, I will become a sewer rat so you can learn how to live and how to leave your sewer.”

The best we have to offer the Baby in the manger is filthy rags … but, He loves us just the same. Can we do any less than honor that love and love Him back.

Let us never forget the sacrifice He made for us … to come live with us and show us the way. Love that Baby Jesus with all your heart and marvel at that extraordinary event.

Merry Christmas and God Bless you all!

Larry Abele – Editorial Team

A Great Experience .. A Wonderful Legacy

Recently I officiated at the memorial service for a very dear friend, fellow worker and father-in-law to my son. It was an experience I will long remember.

Dr. Glen Doornink was a father, grandfather, great-grandfather, beloved physician to many, and a dedicated man of God.

I am reminded of Dr. Luke’s observation about David in the 13th chapter and 36th verse of Acts, "For David, after he had served his own generation by the will of God, fell asleep and was buried with his fathers …"

What a wonderful legacy to a selfless man that hundreds of co-workers and former patients .. patients crossing many color lines, but treated equally .. attended his memorial.

What a wonderful legacy that 7 children, 36 grandchildren and 4 great-grandchildren all serve the Lord.

What a wonderful legacy that he will be remembered in Romania and Yugoslavia where he assisted me on several missionary trips.

And what a wonderful legacy that 8 of his grandchildren have been part of the team that helped us with the language camps in Slovakia and Poland for the last 6 years.

Dr. Doornink was distinguished by his many professional accomplishments over 40 years, by his love for his family and by his service to mankind while walking this earth. He always put the health of the people over the importance of making money.

And now, like David, "having served his own generation by the will of God, he has fallen asleep and been buried with his fathers …"

A wonderful legacy .. a marvelous man .. Dr. Glen Doornink.

Paul Weresch

Post Election Meditations ...

This has been a long and contentious process. i have been saddened by the tone of the discourse but not surprised. I even contributed to the snide remarks and predictions of failure. But now the American public has spoken. I will try to avoid discussing partisan politics because it polarizes and diverts people away from the gospel of Jesus Christ.

I did not pray for Bill Clinton during most of his Presidency. I did not respect him as the authority my sovereign God allowed to be in power. I said ugly things about him. In short, I sinned in my spirit and with my speech. During that time I put my trust in politics and not in God. I will not make that mistake again. I am maturing in my faith. I am more aware of who I am in Christ and that my trust is in God and not in government. That does not mean I will be apathetic.


For the past eight years I have heard incredibly ugly things said about President Bush. I completely understand that people disagreed with some or even all of his policies. But the hate was mind boggling. I will not be a part of that with President Obama. Mr. Bush will be judged by history and by God. President Obama will be judged by history and by God. I may disagree with the policies of any president but I will do my best to stick to policy and not engage in personal attack.


I was wrapped up in thought about the election the next evening when God gently reminded me that nothing changes in what I am called to do on the morning of November 5th. I am to spend the rest of my days passionately communicating that all truth is in grace and in grace is all truth. That is my calling and I pray that I can keep to that task.


Proverbs 3:5-6 Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight.

So my trust is in God and my hope is in Jesus.

Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever. So do not be attracted by strange, new ideas. Your strength comes from God’s grace.

Whether you are happy or sad at the end of the day one thing is true. Nothing changes in the policies of God’s Word.

That’s my opinion and I pray that all my brothers and sisters in Christ will feel the same way.

Larry Abele - Editorial Team

(If you would like to stay current with prayer needs for our country and the Presidency, please check out the link to the right ... Presidential Prayer Team. I recommend it.)

What a Great Time For Thanksgiving!

In the United States we will soon be celebrating Thanksgiving. And, as I thought about the many things I have to be thankful for, I am reminded of a song.

Song writer, Irving Berlin, penned a little ditty for the 1940’s musical “Annie Get Your Gun.” I can still see in my mind, Ethel Merman singing:

“Got no check book .. Got no banks .. Still I’d like to express my thanks, I’ve got the sun in the morning and the moon at night.”

In this present time, 60 years later, it is still a great attitude to have. People around the globe are gnawing on their knuckles wondering what is going to happen to them as their world seems to be draining into the sewer! Enormous ego’s and giant greed has reduced their sight to a tunnel that leads to disaster.

The financial crisis has spread throughout the world and is no longer a problem for just the Western Hemisphere.

In the Los Angeles area over 500 high end houses and mansions have been burned down in wild fires this past week. And still war and starvation and abuse continues to blight the whole world.

However, believers know that no matter what storms swirl around us, there is one thing that endures forever … the love of our almighty God! We DO have many things for which to be thankful.

We do not judge our worth by our finances or by our position in this world … we judge our worth by what Jesus Christ did for each of us. We judge ourselves by the fact that God … the Creator of EVERYTHING … loves each and every one of us.

The apostle Paul gave us such a beautiful truth in Romans 5:1-2 when he said “… since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have gained access by faith into this grace in which we now stand. And we rejoice in the hope of the glory of God.”

And on top of that, my friends, “we have the sun in the morning and the moon at night.”

As Thanksgiving time approaches, let us take our minds off of the secular world for a week. Don’t think about what you don’t have. All of us DON’T have something. Don’t think about what you may have lost. All of us have LOST something. Take time to think of what you HAVE and be thankful for it.

I guarantee … the Lord will be pleased … and knowing that … you might like to express your thanks.

Larry Abele, Editorial Team

High Value of the Low Estate

Jesus looked at his disciples and said, "Happy are you poor; the Kingdom of God is yours! Happy are you who are hungry now; you will be filled! Happy are you who weep now; you will laugh! Happy are you when people hate you, reject you, insult you, and say that you are evil, all because of the Son of Man! Be glad when that happens and dance for joy, because a great reward is kept for you in heaven. For their ancestors did the very same things to the prophets. But how terrible for you who are rich now; you have had your easy life! How terrible for you who are full now; you will go hungry! How terrible for you who laugh now; you will mourn and weep!” (Luke 6:20-25)

Lately great emphasis has been placed on the financial difficulties in the world. For the people whose life savings have been lost by the collapse of the stock market, the danger is that we will focus too much on money, riches, and wealth without thinking about true values in life.

The words of Jesus (above) remind us that true values are not measured by the size of our bank account or the financial legacy we may leave behind, but true values are in the measure of a man or woman in their relationship with God and one another; that being Humility.

The thrust here is not an appeal for us to give away everything we have, go on welfare, reduce our calorie intake by half, stop laughing, and encourage people to reject us. Jesus gives no such command in this passage.

Rather, he is telling us .. his followers .. to accept our low state, because if we are less concerned about our economic security, our social acceptability, and our reputation, we will be happier then if we are obsessed with these things.

The focus of this passage is not on world hunger or poverty .. although Jesus felt deeply the plight of the underprivileged .. but on the individual disciples and their value system.

For us who are disciples of Jesus, we need to appreciate our modest circumstances and place our value on the kingdom quality that is humility. The apostle Peter tells us in his first letter; “Humble yourselves, then, under God's mighty hand, so that he will lift you up in his own good time. Leave all your worries with him, because he cares for you. “ (1Peter 5:6-7)

I appreciate the fact that some of us are worried and concerned about the situation we face. The question is; what difference can you make in your situation?

If you can do something, then stop worrying, pray for wisdom and do it! If you cannot do something that will change your situation, then stop worrying and pray .. let the Lord care for you. Either way you will discover happiness.

Paul Weresch

Listen to Paul Weresch MP3 NOW!

Please listen to this great encouraging audio from Paul Weresch I found on the Internet. I found this audio file on the Web and I would like to collect these precious nuggets spread out all over the internet to bless you with the treasury of rich God inspired insights. Please hear Paul Weresch speak on the subject "What can you do with nothing?".

 Click NOW to hear the audio.

I really hope you've been blessed by this message.

Alexander Shein, Editorial team 

Challenge for the Missions

Watch this video with Paul and Betty Weresch as they challenge us for the Missions in a new and fresh way. If you are wondering what God is doing in our present latter days world as it faces the crisis you need to watch this

Alexander Shein, Editorial team



If you are experiencing problems watching this video on our page, please follow this link to the original place. http://the-grove.net/v2/index.php?option=com_seyret&task=videodirectlink&Itemid=130&id=7

Missions As I See It

I just returned from a wonderful visit to churches in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada and Culdesac, Idaho ... two diverse but wonderfully identical bodies dedicated to the work of Christ. The church in Edmonton has 1200 souls in a metropolitan area. The church in Culdesac has 40 attendees in a ranching and logging culture.

However, they are alike in their quality relationship with missions. You see, the quality of a fellowship of believers is not in the geography nor the size … God does not measure your stature, He measures your commitment.

He measures the commitment to the job that Christ urgently gave us when He said in John 4:35-36, “Do you not say, 'Four months more and then the harvest'? I tell you, open your eyes and look at the fields! They are ripe for harvest.”

The apostle, Paul, lays it all out in Romans 10:9 when he says, “... if you confess with your mouth, "Jesus is Lord," and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved."

Then he continues by explaining the dynamics of reaching the lost in Romans 10:14-15, “How, then, can they call on the one they have not believed in? And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them? And how can they preach unless they are sent? As it is written, "How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news!"

Where are the lost we are to reach? In the story in John 4:35-36, they were right in front of them … the Samaritans. In our world today, they are everywhere.

We are all to reach the lost but we cannot all go. However, we can be an important part of the labor.

God needs three things: a willing heart to go .. an obedient church to send .. and a receptive heart to listen.

Each has his responsibility. And what is that?

1. We must have a willing heart. We must be willing to say, yes, Lord, send me. That may be our labor. But we may not have to go far. As we relate to the story in John 4, the lost are in our neighborhood, in our town, across the street or even in our home.

2.Give as the Lord prospers us! No one should feel guilty giving a small amount. Give as He has promised. Feel good about the penny you give and rejoice over it. Put in a little extra labor for ... Little is much when God is in it.

3. Pray. Labor can be prayer that storms the gates of heaven! Fervent, interceding prayer for the labor of all concerned. We are not beating the air with our labor ... we are actually moving people into the fold.

4. And as you pray … do so for the third thing … that the fruits of our labor will fall upon a receptive heart to listen.

So, go now … labor for the Lord. And, if you go … do not rejoice over success you didn’t earn. Many labored for that success. According to chapter 4 of John, some of us will be reaping where they did not sow. Some will be reaping where they didn’t labor. The victory belongs to the Lord!

Remember … the final reward for your labor is to hear those words, “Thou good and faithful servant.”

Paul Weresch

What is the role of the Christian in politics?

Can a disciple of Christ or the church herself be involved in politics?

Some Christians think that the church has no political role to play, and the individual Christian, at most, a minuscule part. This view stems from the concept that Christ's kingdom is not of this world.

Other Christians insist that both individuals and the church have great socio-political responsibilities to improve living conditions.

Some Christians go further and claim that Christianity's main task is to work toward creating a Christian political order that will result in establishing the kingdom of God on earth.

Let us look at the example of Jesus Christ.

Jesus never referred to the type of political society to which His disciples should aspire.

He did not claim to be a socio-political reformer or crusader.

He did not enunciate any political platform. The temptations in the wilderness clearly opened up a political dimension and He resisted them.

Even though He had more than one opportunity to take over society's rule by a sort of coup d'état (e.g., the feeding of the multitude and the triumphant entry into Jerusalem), He did not choose that option.

At the same time, the teachings of Jesus are bound to have significant socio-political fallout when lived by the Christian community.

He offered good news for the poor, liberty for the oppressed, and "life in all its fullness" (John 10:10: “The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.” Therefore, contemporary Christians, following the example of believers throughout the centuries, must acknowledge a social responsibility resting on their shoulders.

Christian socio-political responsibility is based on two biblical foundations.

First, the doctrine of Creation.
God created the universe and established us as the ruling stewards of this world. Stewardship entails both responsibility and accountability for the domain over which one has jurisdiction.

Second, the doctrine of humanity.
Human beings are created in the image of God. The Christian view is that men and women are not an accidental speck on the sea of life, but persons with a responsible role to play and a radiant future. This human potential gives purpose, direction, and optimism to Christians serving others in a communal setting.

Thus Commitment to Jesus Christ means commitment to all God's creation especially to mankind and commitment brings responsibility for the welfare of others.

 Paul Weresch

Your Father Would Like To Hear Your Voice

Ruth Bell Graham was the wife of evangelist Billy Graham and mother of five children. Born to missionary parents in China, Ruth faithfully supported her husband throughout his ministry, raising their children in his absences. Ruth was also a poet and author, and published a number of books. The following was written by Mrs. Graham as a devotional.

To Hear Your Voice

Any mother with a child away from home knows the longing to receive a letter, a call, even a card.

Once when out of the country, I called home to check on Mother and Daddy. After talking with Daddy for a few minutes, he said, "Here—your mother wants to say something." Because Mother's speech had been affected by a stroke, I wondered how she would do. She came on the line, her voice weak, her spirit indomitable. "I just wanted to hear your voice," she said.

I know how it is with me when the children are away. Just the sound of their voices warms and comforts me.

I wonder if God does not long at times just to hear our voices.

In prayer we are coming to almighty God, the Creator of the universe, the King of kings and Lord of lords.

But He is also our Father. He longs to hear from us—not only when we are asking for things, but also to tell Him we love Him and to talk over the happenings of the day, just to fellowship with our Father, who loves us.

Ruth Bell Graham said it so well. If you are having trouble with your prayer life … do not think of God as some untouchable Being. Think of Him as a Father, waiting patiently to see what His beloved child has to say. He tells you in Psalm 139:1-3 … “You may not know me, but I know everything about you. I know when you sit down and when you rise up. I am familiar with all your ways.”

He further explains … “I am not distant and angry, but am the complete expression of love.” 1 John 4:16 “And it is my desire to lavish my love on you simply because you are my child and I am your father.” 1 John 3:1

Now … does that sound like someone you can’t sit down and talk to?

So, talk to Him. After all … He may just want to hear your voice!

Larry Abele – Editorial Team

God Gives Richly

A few weeks ago I had the privilege of watching the stars on the Adriatic coast in Croatia. While watching the magnificent sky above late one night I was thinking of how wonderful this world really is.

What makes me sad is that we have not always appreciated the magnificence and beauty of all of creation around us. As believers we are convinced that everything material and immaterial has its ultimate origin in God and therefore demands our highest respect.

So what is the Christian's attitude towards the works of God to be? We have in the Old Testament and especially in the Psalms, a model for an appropriate attitude towards God's creation. There we see, again and again, expression of wonder, awe, and celebration.

The elemental power of the storms reminds the believer of the far greater power of God. The vastness and beauty of the wilderness, the majesty of towering mountains, and the surging seas turn the eyes of faith to the Lord.

Listen to the words of the psalmist in Psalm 104:24-25 “O Lord, how magnificent are your works! In wisdom you have made them all. The earth is full of your possessions - This great and wide sea, in which innumerable teeming things, living things both great and small.”

The sense of wonder generated by the creation helped to form a healthy attitude towards life in this world in the minds of believers. That attitude can be characterized as one of joy and celebration. The psalmist continues to speak to us in Psalm 111:2 “The works of the Lord are great, studied by all who have pleasure in then.”

While at times Christians have adopted a gloomy attitude of life in the world, recognition of God's good hand in shaping our world as a home for mankind has more often opened the way to a positive and joyful view of our present life.

Our days on earth must have significance since God has so carefully designed the stage on which we each play our part. The New Testament confirms this by stating that “GOD GIVES US RICHLY ALL THINGS TO ENJOY…” (1 Timothy 6:17).

My friend, God exists and his attitude toward us is goodness and love. Therefore, let us seek to enter into a loving relationship with God in order that we may be able to enjoy life to its fullest while rejoicing in his works and celebrating the life we have here and now.

Paul Weresch

Jesus IS Coming Again!

Christians and many non-Christians the world over believe or have heard of the Lord’s Imminent Return. We who believe know that Jesus is coming again to this world.

In the Bible book of Revelation, John states in 1:1 that it is "… the revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave him to show his servants what must soon take place."

He further says in verse 3, "Blessed is the one who reads the words of this prophecy, and blessed are those who hear it and take to heart what is written in it, because the time is near."

So, the skeptic says, that was written 2000 years ago … so when is “near“? 

Moses reminded us in Psalm 90 verse 4, “For a thousand years in your (God’s) sight are like a day that has just gone by, or like a watch in the night.” The Lord sees time much differently than we do. A thousand years could be a day or even a watch (four hours).

We had better be ready because we will not hear the familiar phrase, "Fire In The Hole!" Peter told us in 2 Peter 3:10, “ … the day of the Lord will come like a thief.”

He reminded us in the same chapter, verses 3 and 4, ... in the last days scoffers will come, scoffing and following their own evil desires. They will say, "Where is this 'coming' he promised?

So, why is he waiting so long? We are to watch for the signs and many of those are happening in this evil time on earth. Again Peter reminds us in verse 9, “The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. He is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.”

Mercy is being extended … that is why there is a continuation of evil in the world.

My friends, I accepted the Lord in 1993. I am so glad He did not return in 1992!

However, He could return tomorrow, or next week or in a couple years or a couple hours ... we cannot know. But, we can be ready! Believe me … it is worth it. If we accept the Lord’s gift of sacrifice for us, John again reminds us of what it will be like in Revelation 21:4 … “He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away."

Don’t wait any longer. Believe in Him. Tell Him, “Lord, I am a sinner. I know that you died to save me from those sins. I believe you did that for me, Lord. I am so sorry that you had to make that sacrifice for me. I repent of those sins and thank you for coming into my heart, Jesus.”

You say that prayer, my friend, and mean it from the bottom of your heart, then you too can look forward to the Lord’s Imminent Return.

Larry Abele, Editorial Team

We Must Value Our Children!

 In the world today … full of genocide and abortion, sweat shops and street wars ... there doesn’t seem to be a lot of regard for our children. In many parts of our globe, they are considered a commodity .. beings to be used .. chattel for barter and trade. In our own country they have been relegated to the position of fetus.

Could we be making a BIG mistake? What does God think of children?

1. God considers children a gift that he has given us.
Genesis 33:5 "Then Esau looked around and saw the women and children: "And who are these with you?" Jacob said, "The children that God saw fit to bless me with."


2. God considers children a blessing to society.
Matthew 21:15-16 "When the religious leaders … heard all the children running and shouting through the Temple, "Hosanna to David's Son!" they were up in arms and took him to task. "Do you hear what these children are saying?"
Jesus said, "Yes, I hear them. And haven't you read in God's Word, 'From the mouths of children and babies I'll furnish a place of praise'?"

3. God considers children a depository of our Hopes.
King David said in Psalm 127:3-5 "Don't you see that children are God 's best gift? The fruit of the womb his generous legacy? Like a warrior's fistful of arrows are the children of a vigorous youth. Oh, how blessed are you parents, with your quivers full of children! Your enemies don't stand a chance against you; you'll sweep them right off your doorstep."


4. God feels that we should be responsible for our children.
Proverbs 22:6 "Point your kids in the right direction — when they're old they won't be lost."
Proverbs 29:17 "Discipline your children; you'll be glad you did — they'll turn out delightful to live with."


5. God gave us children to be an example to us all.
Mark 10:13-16 The people brought children to Jesus, hoping he might touch them. The disciples shooed them off. But Jesus was irate and let them know it: "Don't push these children away. Don't ever get between them and me. These children are at the very center of life in the kingdom. Mark this: Unless you accept God's kingdom in the simplicity of a child, you'll never get in." Then, gathering the children up in his arms, he laid his hands of blessing on them.


6. God gave us a warning about our attitude toward children.
Matt 18:1-7 Disciples came to Jesus asking, "Who gets the highest rank in God's kingdom?" For an answer Jesus called over a child, whom he stood in the middle of the room, and said, "I'm telling you, once and for all, that unless you return to square one and start over like children, you're not even going to get a look at the kingdom, let alone get in. Whoever becomes simple and elemental again, like this child, will rank high in God's kingdom. What's more, when you receive the childlike on my account, it's the same as receiving me.
"But if you give them a hard time, bullying or taking advantage of their simple trust, you'll soon wish you hadn't. You'd be better off dropped in the middle of the lake with a millstone around your neck. Doom to the world for giving these God-believing children a hard time! Hard times are inevitable, but you don't have to make it worse — and it's doomsday to you if you do."

I believe that just about says it all … what do you believe?

Larry Abele - Editorial Team

(Bible references from THE MESSAGE: by Eugene H. Peterson)

It's No Joke!

I recently read a story in the humor section of a magazine.

I seems an atheist was sitting in his seat during a flight and noticed across the aisle an elderly woman, reading her Bible.
After a while, he asked her, "Do you believe what you read in that book?"
"Yes, I do," she replied, smiling sweetly.
"Every word?" he asked.
"Yes, every word."
"Aw come on … do you really believe that Jonah was swallowed by a fish?" he scoffed.
"Yes, I do!"
"Prove it," the atheist retorted.
"Well, I can’t," the little lady replied. "However, when I get to heaven, I’ll ask him."
"What if he isn’t in heaven," the man smirked.
"Well, she responded without hesitation, "then you ask him!"

I giggled to myself until I realized that the joke was not funny. That man will someday believe in God, as we all will.

When we are standing before God’s throne, in judgement, the proof will be before us. But, by then, it may be too late to avoid an eternity in hell.

All of us will meet our maker. Those of us who have accepted Jesus Christ as our Savior will have the perfect lawyer … Jesus, Himself. Those who refused to believe or worst yet, never got around to believing will have no defense. They will stand condemned.

It will be an unbelievably awesome, knee-shaking event, standing before the Lord. Personally, I want to be well prepared for that meeting. I want Jesus on my side.

How about you? Are you a sinner … you better answer yes … we are all sinners. Will you stand before Him, trembling in your filthy rags, or will you be standing there dressed in the clothes that Christ’s blood supplied for you?

All you need to do is admit you are a sinner, repent of those sins, and believe that Christ died to save you from those sins. Let Him know … Jesus will do the rest.

It’s no joke! Take your pick … as for me and my house … I will chose Jesus!

Larry Abele, Editorial Team

Please Pray With Us ...

My good friend and one of the editorial team of this blog, Sasha Shein, sent me a prayer request. It concerned the news of further trouble in the area east of the Black Sea … Georgia, Russia and South Ossetia.

Paul, Sasha and I ministered to people in that area nearly 10 years ago. We were in the city of Vladikavkaz 20 miles north of the border of Georgia and 100 miles north of the capital of South Ossetia where the fighting is taking place.

It is a wildly beautiful area with humble, warm, beautiful people. Many times I find myself thinking back to those days among them. And I, along with Paul and Sasha, am grieved by this terrible news.

Let me share with you a portion of Sasha’s letter:

"Russian believers are greatly concerned and are praying for the people of South Ossetia. The aggression of Georgian troops and the genocide exercised by Georgian government must be stopped. Please pray for the people of South Ossetia and our fellow believers among them who I happen to know personally."

God proclaimed in 2 Chronicles 7:14 "If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their land."

This is personal to Jesus Christ, my friends; it is personal to us and it should be personal to you. Please pray for these precious people!

Larry Abele - Editorial Team

All eyes are on China but not all for the same reason.

China is one of the most exiting mission fields of the world, and the church better take notice and perhaps learn a few things. To illustrate my point let me quote a passage from Philip Yancey’s book, “ What’s So Amazing About Grace?” (pgs. 258-259)

Not long ago I had a conversation with an elderly missionary who spent his early life in China. He had been among the 6000 missionaries expelled after the communist took over. As in Russia, the communist strove mightily to destroy the church, which until then had been a showcase of the missionary movement. The government forbade house churches, made it illegal for parents to give religious education to their children, imprisoned and tortured pastors and Bible teachers.

Meanwhile the exiled missionaries sat on the sidelines and wrung their hands. How would the church in China fare without them? Without their seminaries and Bible colleges, their literature and curricula, without even the ability to print Bibles, could the church survive? For 40 years these missionaries heard rumours, some discouraging and some encouraging, about what was happening in China, but no one knew for sure until the country began opening up in the 1980s.

I asked this elderly missionary, now a renowned China expert, what had happened in the intervening 40 years. “Conservatively, I would estimate that there were 750,000 Christians when I left China.

And now? You hear all sorts of numbers, but I think a safe figure would be 35 million believers.” Apparently the church and the Holy Spirit Fared quite well on their own. The church in China now constitutes the second largest evangelical community in the world; only the United States exceeds it.

One China expert estimates that the revival in China represents the greatest numerical increase in the history of the Church. In an odd way the government hostility ultimately worked to the church’s advantage. Chinese Christians devoted themselves to worship and evangelism - the original mission of the Church - and did not much concern themselves with politics. They concentrated on changing lives not changing laws.

The words of Jesus are still pertinent for this generation; “Therefore go and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things, whatever I commanded you. And, behold, I am with you all the days until the end of the world. Amen.“ Mat. 28:19-20

That article, written in 1997 and stating 35 million believers, is updated today to 50 to 70 million believers.

Paul Weresch

God helps those who help themselves!

This is a common saying but it is not true when it comes to the salvation in Jesus Christ.

The Bible speaks of Salvation as a free gift rather then something we did for ourselves.

The Apostle Paul tells us in his letter to the Romans “for all have sinned and come short of the glory of God.” (Rom. 3:23)

That means that everyone misses the mark in his own deeds. All great and small have missed the mark for all have sinned. He further states that sin has consequences: “the wages of sin is death.” (Rom 6:23)

Paul, who had a personal encounter with Christ, the Saviour of all mankind, concludes: “but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.” Then back to Romans 3:24, the Bible says, “being justified freely by His grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus,”

This Gift, my friend, is available to all, by faith. In Romans 10:13, the Bible says, “whosoever shall call on the name of the Lord shall be saved.” God is a respecter of no person. His salvation is available to all who will call on His name.

The truth is God will help those who cannot help themselves and will call upon him for salvation in Jesus Christ. Do you know Jesus?

Paul Weresch

Neglect and Forgetfulness can be Dangerous

We are constantly reminded of our bodily needs by our bodily senses and desires, and by the material world. If we forget to eat physical food, we will be reminded by hunger pains. If we neglect to clothe our bodies and to collect fire wood, we will be reminded by feeling cold. If we neglect to earn and save money, then bills in the mail will soon make us aware of that need.

However, it is much easier to forget the needs of the spirit, because the prompting's are not as noticeable and deprivation signals are often overlooked. God in his providence may cause us to notice our neglect or forgetfulness. Perhaps this blog entry is one reminder.

King David said, "I have been young, and now am old, yet I have not seen the righteous person forsaken nor his children begging bread" (Psalm 37:23-26).

When we put God first in this world, we will always be looked after even in times of persecution, and in the world to come we will have eternal life. Jesus confirmed that in Mark 10:29-30.

However, labouring for eternal life is more important than working for the things of this world. Jesus said, "Labour not for the food which perishes, but for the food that endures unto eternal life".

Comparing this with the above passages, we see that, while some earthly work is necessary, we can work too long and hard for earthly comforts, and neglect to work for things eternal (John 6:27).

Paul Weresch

"I will not neglect to remind you." (2 Peter 1:12)

Don’t throw away your Necktie

My wife and I are spending a few days in Croatia, a country where we have ministered on many occasions with great joy. Currently there is great religious freedom and a deep hunger for God.

On the lighter side did you know that Croatia is the mother country of the necktie?

Many events in the history of mankind eventually fade into oblivion, but others, leave their indelible marks for the entire world to see. More than 350 years ago, the Croats initiated one such influential occurrence. Six hundred million people now wear the ubiquitous symbol of Croatia around their necks, close to their hearts ... the necktie.

In his book, La Grande Histoire de la Cravate (Flamarion, Paris, 1994), François Chaille tells us about the appearance of this article of clothing and how it became fashionable.

"... Around the year 1635, some six thousand soldiers and knights came to Paris to give their support to King Louis XIII and Cardinal Richelieu. Among them were a great number of Croatian mercenaries led a Croatian viceroy. The traditional outfit of these Croats aroused interest on account of the unusual and picturesque scarves distinctively tied about their necks. The scarves were made of various cloths, ranging from coarse material for common soldiers, to fine cotton and silk for officers.

This elegant "Croatian style" immediately enamoured the French, who were delighted by the new article of clothing, which had been previously unknown in Europe. For the gallant French officers in the thirty-year war, the advantage of the Croatian neck scarf was its enviable practicality. In contrast to the lace collar that had to be kept white and carefully starched, the scarf was simply and loosely tied around the neck without need for any additional care.

Around the year 1650, during the reign of Louis XIV, the Croatian scarf was accepted in France, above all in court, where military ornaments were much admired. The fashionable expression, ’a la croate’, soon evolved into a new French word, which still exists today: la cravate.

This innovation symbolized the height of culture and elegance. On his return to England from exile, Charles II brought with him this new word in fashion. Over the next ten years, this fashion novelty spread across Europe, as well as across the colonies on the American continent..."

Since that time in the 17th century, derivatives of the word croata have been present in many languages, (i.e., English, German, French, Portuguese, Italian), meaning cravat or tie. It follows then that Croatia is the mother country of the necktie, as France is the mother country of high fashion, Brazil of coffee, Switzerland of cheese and watches.

Paul Weresch

"Do You Have A Mentor?"

The original Mentor is a character in Homer’s epic poem The Odyssey. When Odysseus, King of Ithaca went to fight in the Trojan War, he entrusted the care of his kingdom to Mentor. Mentor served as the teacher and overseer of Odysseuss’ son, Telemachus.

The Dictionary defines a mentor as "a trusted counselor or guide." Today, there seems to be much ongoing discussion and debate about the definitions and differences regarding coaching and mentoring. However, all agree that a good mentor is a valued asset.

When I began my Christian walk 15 years ago at the age of 58, God entrusted me with an excellent earthly mentor. While I have known many great Christian men in those years, the Lord knew that I would be most comfortable with a mentor who had been on the cutting edge of His work. That mentor was Paul Weresch. He has been an excellent "trusted counselor and guide".

We have worked together often over the years. I have published his newsletter many years and now he has asked me to write for this endeavor. I am happy to have Paul as a mentor … however, he is not the only mentor I have.

Jesus said, as reported by John in Chapter 14:25-27, "All this I have spoken while still with you. But the Counselor , the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you."

If you are beginning your Christian walk … it will help to find a good earthly mentor. However, always remember … "God has said, ‘Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.’ So we say with confidence, ‘The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid.’" (Hebrews 13:5-5)

No one could have a better mentor or friend than the original mentor, Christ Jesus!

Larry Abele - Editorial Team

Carpe Diem

Good Morning! A friend of mine (Dr. Dave Demchuk) sent me the following thoughts:

Holidays are a wonderful time to reflect and regroup. One of the things that has been on my mind during this holiday concerns how I use the present. Let me elaborate where I’m going with a quote by Ken Blanchard:

“To learn from the past is good – to live in it is a waste. To plan for the future is good – to live in it is a waste. You are happiest and most productive in life when you are living in the present.”

It seems to me that we face a couple of negative extremes when it comes to our perspective on time. Some of us tend to live with our gaze to the past, lamenting that the good days are behind us. Others of us living so totally focused on the future that we fail to learn from the lessons of the past, or enjoy the blessings of today. Living at either end of the time continuum yields the same result – we forget to live in the “today” of our lives.

So does that mean to live fully in the present is to ignore the past and the future? Not at all! Living fully in the present involves being informed and shaped by the past – its experiences, lessons, and pitfalls. It’s a sad thing when leaders ignore their past, only to keep on repeating it. Living fully in the present also involves being pulled forward towards the future – the only real way to ensure that a far-off hill in conquered is to begin to take steps towards it today. But we only really have today, and we need to learn to squeeze every bit of value out of every day, whether it’s at work, with our family or with our friends. We can do that through working hard and smart, but also through those moments when we take uninterrupted time for our family or friends.

The ancients captured the need to live fully in each day with the phrase “Carpe Diem”, which means “seize the day”. The word carpe literally means “to pluck” and paints a bit of a picture of one taking the best from each day, in a way an individual would pick flowers.” The phrase finds its source in the writings of the Latin poet Horace” “Scale back your long hopes to a short period. While we speak, time is envious and is running away from us. Seize the day, trusting little in the future….”

Jesus calls us to live fully in each day we have been given, reminding us that our heavenly Father “will give you all you need from day to day if you live for him and make the Kingdom of God your primary concern.” (Matt. 6:33). So seize the day – today.
___________________________

Have a great day,

Paul

“Shalom”

Listening to the news and watching the television, one gets the impression the most precious commodity in the world are not natural resources and energy but peace. Peace seems to be lacking everywhere, whether we look to the East, West, North or South we see unrest, confrontation and war.

When we talk about peace we often think of a calm quiet place far from distractions and human challenges. Some people think the only way to find peace is to go on a Safari or move to a quite cabin in the woods away from everyone and everything.

Jesus spoke to his disciples just as he was facing the most challenging time of his life on earth and said the following words in John 14:27:

" Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid."

Jesus Christ was a man of peace. He lived in peace and taught us how to live in peace. But Jesus didn't lead a calm tranquil existence, his life was permeated by confrontations persecution insults and in the end crucifixion.

The peace that Jesus offers is not dependent on outside circumstances; it depends only on our relationship with God. This peace stems from a knowledge that God is in control of all things. This knowledge results from a personal relationship with God.

Dear friend, perhaps you are thinking as you read these lines; "how in the world am I to have a personal relationship with God and how does one experience this peace with all the challenges of life". God wants to give it to you … free! Let me suggest this little prayer … pray it from your heart … He will hear you and answer.

"Blessed Jesus ... I want that peace You speak of. I know that I am a sinner and I repent of my sins. Please come into my life, Jesus. I believe You died for me and I believe that through You I can gain peace in my life. I look forward to a personal relationship with You, Jesus. Thank You for the gift of eternal life. Amen"

If you prayed that prayer, let us know. And, if you need a New Testament of the Bible we can send you one. Just send an email to: cntcpw@aol.com

Paul Weresch

CLEAN-UP or FESS-UP?

I accepted the Lord’s invitation to live eternally very late in life and became rather zealous that my children should be of like condition ... it is part of the great commission that Jesus gave to all believers, to spread the Good News.

I remember taking my daughter to dinner one night to ask her forgiveness for being such a lousy father. I told her of the joy that I had experienced the moment I decided to accept the Lord’s gift. I told her that the same joy was available to her. I told her that I wanted to be with her in the Heaven I knew I was going to. I thought I was doing a marvelous job.

But, alas, she was like many, who in their hearts, are not ready to accept such a gift of grace given freely to anyone who will believe in Him. She reminded me that she smoked, she drank and she liked to party. She told me that she had a lot of "cleaning-up" to do before she was ready to make this step. I suspected that she was embarrassed to present herself to the Lord in such a "human" condition"

How sad it is that so many sons and daughters, men and women, all creations of God, believe in that putrid lie told by the devil, "You are just not good enough for God. How could He ever accept the likes of you!"

Actually, in our "human" condition, He CAN’T accept us. However, knowing that and loving us just the same, God devised a plan. He sent His Son to earth, free of human sin, who lived a sinless life and presented Himself as a living sacrifice to pay our sin debt. His work on the cross was designed to save us. Now when God looks upon the believer, He sees His perfect Son!

He did this for everyone on earth. All we have to do is confess that we are powerless without it and accept the Gift. Yes, we have to accept the Gift to receive it. God said, "Come as you are." You don’t have to clean up … just accept.

Don’t take time to clean-up … just fess-up. Admit you are a sinner and need salvation. Ask the Lord for His forgiveness and accept His Gift today!

Larry Abele - Editorial Team

DO NOT HESITATE !

Occasionally I meet people who are aware of their need of the Savior Jesus Christ but are reluctance to make a personal commitment to him by believing in his saving work accomplished for us. Although they have seen what faith in Christ has done for others they still hesitate. Their problem seems to stem from the misinformation given to them by well meaning religious people. Some people think one must join a certain church to be saved. Others insist that a person must be baptized in a particular manner. Still others claim that we must obey the “golden rule” in order to be pleasing in the sight of God. 
The Apostle Paul made it clear in his writings: it is not what we do for God, but what God has done for us that will bring us into relationship with Him through Jesus Christ.
As we read the writings of the Apostle Paul we realize that God Loved us while we were yet sinners. Furthermore Paul makes it clear that it is the life, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ that enables us to be saved; which means that our sins are forgiven and we can be brought into an eternal relationship with God. Paul makes it unmistakably clear that, all we have to do to be saved is turn away from our sins and believe (place our trust) in the Lord Jesus Christ. If you have not done so, do it today trust Jesus now. Remember, we are not saved by what we do, but by trusting what Christ has done

Paul Weresch

*For further reference please read Paul’s letter to the Romans, chapters one to eight. Should you care to, please look it up on the following web pages: http://net.bible.org/bible.php

It’s All About The Blood!

I just had my annual physical exam. Along with the probing and questioning, they took a pretty fair amount of blood. The doctors can tell a great deal about your health by examining your blood. You have a particular blood "type". Also, various components of the blood tell the doctor how your cholesterol levels are, the "PSA" test lets you know the health of your prostate gland. They can tell if you have diabetes or are prone to it. Real bad news could be delivered that you are "HIV positive".

One test the doctors did not perform on my blood is the one that would tell me that my blood is "SIN positive"!

Oh, yes … your blood is "SIN positive" also! It is genetic. SIN has been passed down through the generations from Adam who let SIN into his life and thus branded us all. This is pretty bad news because we know from the Bible that God is righteous and cannot abide SIN. We have been doomed through Adam’s blood.

But wait … do not despair … there is a cure!

Paul told the Ephesians in chapter 2, verse 13, "Now in Christ Jesus you who once were far away have been brought near through the blood of Christ."

Jesus, himself said, "For this is my blood of the new testament, which is shed for many for the remission of sins", (Matthew 26:28).

"But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus, his Son, purifies us from all sin." (1 John 1:7)

And finally, "For you know that it was not with perishable things such as silver or gold that you were redeemed from the empty way of life handed down to you from your forefathers,
but with the precious blood of Christ, a lamb without blemish or defect." (1 Peter 1:18:19)

So, the cure is there … believe in Jesus Christ who shed His blood that yours may be purified. Take your medicine!

Larry Abele, Editorial Team

Does God Care?

Does God really care?

Come unto me, all of you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. (Words of Jesus.) Matthew 11:28
Last week a man came to our meetings. He was very dejected, his problem was that he had an alcoholic past because of which he had lost his employment and now was unable to find a job. He came to Pastor Daniel asking him to assist him in finding a job. Pastor Daniel said to him that he was not a job agency nor was he qualified to give him psychological counselling that would enable him to find a good job. But what he could do for him said Pastor Daniel, was to pray with him and God would make sure that he got a job. The man looked in disbelief at Pastor Daniel. But on being encouraged to simply trust God, he joined in prayer. The next day we were surprised to see a joyful man come to our meeting. He was beaming from ear-to-ear, and informed us that he had found a job. Early in the morning he had an impulse to go to a certain company and ask for employment as he approached the person that interviewed him he realized that he had walked into an open door. Not only was he offered the job but he was offered immediately a contract for six months. The personnel manager was fully aware of his alcoholic past but he was also aware of the fact that he had managed to stay dry for four year. This man was amazed that God would really care for him and answer his prayer so quickly.  
Now does God really care? The answer is yes, we read that in the text from the gospel of Matthew. God really cares! 
 Can anyone go through life without facing problems? No, we're surrounded by problems! There's no way of hiding from them, they pursue us like shadows. What's more, problems are individualized. No two pPublish Posteople have exactly the same problems. That's why it's comforting to know that God knows us individually, personally God knows all our troubles. Remember Jesus said come unto me all you who are weary and burdened and I will give you rest. The psalmist knew that and sang: “I lay my requests before you and I wait in expectation.” Psalm 5:3

Think about it!

Paul Weresch

English Camp in Dzierzoniow, Poland

From right to left: Alana, Annie, Carrie, Jane, and Ray

Last week has proven to be a productive yet exhausting time for our team from America. All five of us are students or former students from Washington State University. Jane and Ray met Annie, Alana and me in Berlin and went straight to Dzierzoniow. Our purpose was to aid the local church in blessing the town by teaching a valuable life skill to its children: the English language. 

For five days we met with 30-40 young students, teaching them to sing English songs (about Jesus) and addressing the large group with a message about God's love. Then we broke up into three smaller groups, divided by skill level, and taught them some basics of the language. The children were introduced to several new vocabulary words and were given the opportunity to interact and practice their English on native speakers. In the oldest group of kids we had several great conversations about God and what Jesus Christ did for us on the cross. 

Through the camp, some residents of Dzierzoniow have noticed the blessing that this church is to the community and have praised God because of it. Relationships were formed between the students and the American leaders, despite the linguistic obstacles. We praise God for the opportunity to be here and to work with this church. They, and we, look forward to doing this all again next year.

Ray Gross and Carrie Calhoun

Our friend Alexander Shein, the pastor from Moscow, Russia visited us in Dzierzionow, Poland. This was Sasha's first visit to Poland and it proved to be most profitable for all of us. Pastor Shein preached to an audience gathered in tree-mast tent on the subject of the importance of making the right investments in our lives. These investments were not to be limited to finances only but include time and talents which in the final analyses means the investment of our lives; his message was well received.

In addition to his preaching, Sasha helped us greatly with our IT work and with development of this Blog. Tomorrow our friend is leaving for Moscow. We, who are remaining in Poland already, miss him, who is such a multitasking talent. Bon Voyage, mon frere!

Paul Weresch

Break Any Commandments Today?

You shall not make for yourself an idol in the form of anything in heaven above or on the earth beneath or in the waters below.
"Yeah, $1000 is a lot to spend on a TV. But, our whole family watches TV constantly."

Remember the Sabbath day by keeping it holy.
"I work six days a week, I don't want to waste Sunday in church!"

Honor your father and your mother, so that you may live long in the land the LORD your God is giving you.
"They’re just a couple old fuddy-duddies. They’re spying on me!"

You shall not murder.
"He's about as worthless as they come. Have you heard what he did?"

You shall not steal.
"Let’s mark that up a little more we could use a little extra profit on this junk."

You shall not give false testimony against your neighbor.
"He’s not the same as us. He’s probably growing dope in that house."

How did you do … that is only half of God’s ten commandments (Exodus 20:2-17). It is ten parts of one law. He designed them knowing we could not keep them. And, if we break one (see statements above) we have broken God’s Law.

That is why He gave us a solution, the sacrifice of His Son, Jesus Christ. Romans 8:1-3 states: "Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus, because through Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit of life set me free from the law of sin and death. For what the law was powerless to do in that it was weakened by the sinful nature, God did by sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful man to be a sin offering."

That, my sinful friends, is called GRACE!

Larry Abele - Editorial Team