50 Years Serving the Lord ...

I got a call from Paul a couple days ago. He and wife Betty, along with me, my wife and nearly 100 other friends of the Wereschs are relaxing after a wonderful party … Paul and Betty’s 50th wedding anniversary. The event took place at a beautiful oasis near Yakima, Washington and was put on by the couple’s loving boys Wesley, Jonathan and Dan; their wives Eileen, Jennifer and Bryn; and Grandpa and Grandma‘s joy, grandson, Frederick.

Paul said that as he thought of the thrill of seeing everyone, he was thinking about how children often dream of having one day in Santa’s workshop … seeing all the creations of the man himself … what a joy and a thrill that would be.

But then he said, "Larry, I have spent 50 years in God’s workshop, meeting, seeing, helping, encouraging the workmanship of the Lord … His marvelous creation … His children." He was nearly in tears of joy as he related the thrill of it to me.

I always admire those folks who in this day and age make it to 50 years of marriage and more. But, even more so the Wereschs who have served the Lord during every one of those years ... serving as ambassadors of our Almighty God.

I once asked an elderly gentleman in our town in Idaho for two words that would describe the success of their 70 plus years of marriage. He said without hesitation, "Yes, Dear!"

These two missionary sweethearts, the Wereschs, made a similar two word commitment when they decided to work together … "Yes, Lord!"

As a result of that obedience, they have had the privilege of sharing Jesus with thousands … even tens of thousands of souls in Eastern Europe and Russia … God’s handiwork.

You might think that with 50 years of marriage and service, they would think of retirement … think again! They have already prepared for a 5 week trip to Poland in October. As I bask in the memories of this recent party in Yakima … attended by friends, relatives, admirers and brothers and sisters in Christ, I can only imagine what the parties are going to be like in Warsaw or Bielawa or Barlinek or Bielsko-Biala … all cities in Poland where Paul and Betty served the Lord and are welcomed with open arms. I have seen the love the people of Eastern Europe have for the Wereschs … the parties will be great.

But, as I imagine a day in God’s workshop I can’t help but think of an eternity in God’s heaven … with brothers and sisters in Christ like Paul and Betty Weresch … now THAT will be a party!

Don’t miss it, my friends!

Larry Abele – Editorial Team

My Most Memorable Easter ...

I have had the privilege of seeing many wonderful miracles during our nearly half century of ministry in Eastern Europe. The Lord has given us boundless grace and mercy as He has lead us down many paths, protected us from great harm, and strengthened us to do His bidding.

During that time we have celebrated many Easter Sundays in many places. However, our most memorable Easter was not behind the Iron Curtain or in a small Russian village or a large Polish city … it was in Tacoma, Washington in the U.S.A. on an Easter Sunday evening, 19 years ago, when a dear brother placed his broken life on the altar and accepted Jesus Christ’s gift of a new heart.

As I meditated on the Cross and the perfect Lamb, Jesus Christ, I thought about how this selfless act of love by the Creator of the universe was a game changer for all of humanity. His beloved creation had taken a turn down a crooked path … a path to certain destruction … He had to straighten that path, and did, by offering his only Son as the sacrifice for all.

But while it was for ALL humanity, it is a wonderful blessing to see it being played out on a personal scale … with just one lost man. As my Easter offering to you, the reader, I share the remembrance of a man whose life was changed that Easter evening in 1993;  a man who has continued to grow under the tutelage of the Holy Spirit. I have watched his life change and bloom. And though he calls me “mentor” I call him “brother”. He is on our editorial team, a frequent contributor to “Let’s Talk” and a beautiful example of God‘s love.

“Our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ, gave himself for us to redeem us from all wickedness and to purify for himself a people that are his very own, eager to do what is good.”  Titus 2:13-14

Happy Easter to all of our readers and to you, Larry Abele, my friend and my brother in Christ.

Paul Weresch

I Resolve To ......

Here it is the second week of a brand new year. I have purposely waited to publish this post until most new year resolutions have been broken. Or, are you one of those who valiantly keep your resolutions. 

Possibly you are one of those who make them so practical that they can be kept … “I resolve to spend less time exercising.” “I resolve to watch more TV.” Or, maybe, like me, you usually find them useless and therefore make none at all. After all, it is just a new calendar … nothing else.

Paul sent me a note with his take on this whole process:

“Some time ago, I became somewhat disillusioned with the whole resolution thing. I've found myself to be pitiful when it comes to meeting these long term, sweeping and really rather undefined and general promises for change.

Those who actually make change do not vow to do so, since that places such changes in the future, where they can be postponed continually - rather, such people (of whom I'm rather envious), simply change. They alter their behavior in small ways on a day to day basis.

However these changes have their limitation. Real consequential changes, changes of eternal value comes not from within us … they come from the Lord.

King Salomon said; "Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths." (Proverbs 3: 5-6) These words capture the essence of my resolution for 2012 perfectly: to trust the Lord in all things and pray for Him to reveal the next step in our journey. Can't wait to see all of the “good” things that He has in store for our family this year!”

As I struggled with the highs and lows of this past year … from the birth of my first great-granddaughter to the tragic end to three of my best friends, I am reminded that life is fragile, for newborns and for young men … for the middle aged and for seniors. Let us not let the mechanics of living out-weigh the compassion of living. And, remember that the fruit of our lives will always be representative of the god we follow.

I am making a resolution this year … one that I know the Lord will help me keep … one that I encourage all of you to make. I resolve  to love deeper, to care more fervently, to give more unselfishly and to savor every precious moment that the Good Lord gives me.

And, as Paul closed his note …

“Larry and I pray that the year 2012 is a great year for you, a year in which you will come to trust in the Lord and experience the blessing of His leading.”

Larry Abele – Editorial Team

Christ is Risen! So what? Part 3

Jesus Christ rose from the dead so that he could establish and empower his church, a church with a clear mission and function in this world.

Let me state this clearly. The church was not created in order that we may have another religious organization and it definitely was not created so that the clergy would have a job.

There may be varying opinions about the tasks and functions of the church, but the following represent what would be its three primary priorities.

1. The Church is to bring people into a personal relationship with God by proclaiming the Gospel throughout the world and making disciples of all kinds of people.

"Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age" (Matt. 28:19-20).

"And He said to them, Go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature" (Mark 16:15).

The two ministries of the church, evangelism and discipleship, are Christ's primary mission. "Evangelism" is the ministry of proclaiming the good news of Jesus Christ that will bring mankind into fellowship with God, while "discipleship" is the training of believers to become disciplined followers of Jesus that understand their blessings and freedom in Christ while responsibly sharing this good news with the rest of the world.

In other words the mission of the church is, a continuation of Christ's earthly ministry (John 14:12). Jesus main purpose of coming into this world was to bring people into fellowship with God, through his life, death and resurrection.

Listen to his words; "For the Son of Man has come to save that which was lost" (Matt. 18:11). And in turn, He imparted this same objective to His disciples. He said to them, "Follow Me, and I will make you fishers of men" (Matt. 4:19). Can anything be clearer then the words in the gospel of John? “Then said Jesus to them again, Peace be unto you: as my Father hath sent me, even so send I you.” (John 20:21 KJV)

Perhaps the statement which best summarizes the mission of Christ and His church, was given as Jesus read from Isaiah's prophecy in Nazareth's synagogue on the Sabbath day. He said, "The Spirit of the LORD is upon me, because He has anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor. He has sent me to heal the brokenhearted, to preach deliverance to the captives and recovery of sight to the blind, to set at liberty those who are oppressed, to preach the acceptable year of the LORD" (Luke 4:18-19).

2. The Church is to nurture all believers and prepare them for the work of ministry.

"And He Himself gave some to be apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, and some pastors and teachers, for the equipping of the saints for the work of ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ..." (Eph. 4:11-12).

The church should be a fellowship of believers, where God's Word is taught, people are built up spiritually, emotionally and socially. This not only serves to anchor their faith in Christ, but serves to develop good character and prepares them for service to others. According to God's plan, each member of the body of Christ is called to serve in some aspect of ministry (Rom. 12:6, 1 Cor. 12:14-31, 2 Cor. 5:17).

3. The Church is to serve as a community of worshipers that praise God, love one
another and represent the interests of the Kingdom of God in the world, and thereby influence the society for good.

"You are the salt of the earth; but if the salt loses its flavor, how shall it be seasoned? It is then good for nothing but to be thrown out and trampled under foot by men. You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden" (Matt. 5:13-14).

Jesus used salt and light as metaphors of the influential characteristics of His church in the world. Historically, salt has always been a commodity used as an antiseptic to withdraw infection. Light, of course, dispels darkness.

Jesus Christ intended his church to let its light shine in the world by loving, caring, and meeting needs of humanity, while upholding the redemptive truths and righteousness of Jesus Christ.

Jesus also told his church, "Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven" (Matt. 5:16).

Paul Weresch

Christ is Risen, So What? (Part 2)

Here we go again with the question: Christ is risen, so what?

Let me remind you of the words of the Apostle Paul: “And if Christ wasn't raised to life, our message is worthless, and so is your faith.” 1 Corinthians 15:14 CEV

Because of the resurrection of Jesus Christ, God gives repentance and forgiveness of sins to all people.

The most famous of the early disciples of Jesus, Peter puts it this way: “The God of our fathers raised up Jesus, whom ye slew, hanging him on a tree. Him did God exalt with his right hand to be a Prince and a Savior, to give repentance to Israel, and remission of sins." Acts 5:30-31 ASV

Prompted by the Holy Spirit in a Vision, Peter went to the house of Cornelius, a Roman military officer and said the following: "Cornelius, God has heard your prayers, … Now I am certain that God treats all people alike. … Jesus was put to death on a cross. But three days later, God raised him to life and let him be seen.”

Some Jewish followers of the Lord had come with Peter, and they were surprised that the Holy Spirit had been given to Gentiles. Now they were hearing Gentiles speaking unknown languages and praising God. Peter said, "These Gentiles have been given the Holy Spirit, just as we have! I am certain that no one would dare stop us from baptizing them." Peter ordered them to be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ, and they asked him to stay on for a few days.
Acts 10:31-48 CEV

Because of the resurrection of Jesus Christ, God secured our justification by raising Jesus from the dead. “He was delivered up for our trespasses and raised for our justification.” Romans 4:25.

Because of the resurrection of Jesus Christ, we now enjoy personal fellowship with Christ. Matthew 28:20: “Behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.”

Because of the resurrection of Jesus Christ, we have one who intercedes for us in heaven before God. Romans 8:34: “Christ Jesus is the one who died—more than that, who was raised—who is at the right hand of God, who indeed is interceding for us.”

Paul Weresch

Happy Mother's Day!

A Grafton, West Virginia Mother, Mrs. Anna Reeves Jarvis, thinking of mothers who had lost their sons in the Civil War, prayed that there would someday be a day to celebrate Mother’s. A mother’s day was first celebrated in 1876.

After gaining in popularity, by 1910, Mother's Day was celebrated in forty-five states, Puerto Rico, Hawaii, Canada, and Mexico. Elated, Mrs. Jarvis’ daughter, who had continued to fight for the cause, told a friend, "Where it will end must be left for the future to tell. That it will circle the globe now seems certain."

On May 8, 1914, President Wilson designated the second Sunday in May as Mother's Day "for displaying the American flag and for the public expression of love and reverence for the mothers of the country."

Three mother’s of the Bible come to mind that made contributions to the society in which we live ... three women birthing a child under difficult circumstances and yet influencing the world beyond their wildest dreams.

The first woman is Hagar. We are familiar with the story in Geneses 16. Abraham’s wife Sarah, certain she could no longer bare a child, gave to her husband her servant, Hagar, to mistakenly help God fulfill His promise that Abraham would be father of all the Jews.

Hagar bore a fine son named Ishmael, who became the father of the Arab nations. Chapter 21 of Genesis, describes how afterward God miraculously gave Sarah a son named Isaac. Sarah, not wanting Hagar and her son around, abused her and had Abraham send them away ... banished to the burning desert.

Hagar, with their bread and water gone, placed her child under a bush so she wouldn't have to watch him die. She sat down at a distance and waited for death. Then Genesis 21:17 says "God heard the voice of the lad." and sent an "angel" to reassure her of His great promises (vv.17-18). He then provided "a well of water".

The second mother is Jochebed … who raised two sons, Aaron and Moses. The story is found in the second chapter of Exodus where Jechobed, a desperate and deliberate mother, put her 3 month old son, Moses in a basket and placed it on the edge of the Nile River to escape the wrath of a cruel and oppressive regime.

The daughter of the Pharaoh seeing that little basket floating in the reeds, decided to save him and then, unwittingly hired Moses' real mother, Jochebed, to tend to him. Moses was able to grow up in Pharaoh's palace. But from his real mother he learned faith and his true identity with the people of God.

Due to the dedication of his mother, Jochebed … who would not give up, who kept her faith, who used her creative imagination, who was able to teach her child and even got paid for doing it ... Moses was able to save his people.

The third mother was Mary, Fearful and Faithful (Luke 1). When told by an angel that she, a virgin would give birth to the Messiah, obediently proclaimed, "Let it be to me according to your word."

Mary’s response was the result of her faith in God. God wanted a godly mother to bring the Lord Jesus into the world. Mary, because of her faith and faithfulness, was able to be that mother. She was asked to make a great sacrifice, but she believed and trusted God. Her trust in God made her understand that whatever God asked of her was the best for her. Her example should speak to every mother with the message of faith and faithfulness.

Dear Mothers, whoever you are let God's peace rule in your life. Remember God rules in the world. He is sovereign, in control. However, He does not rule our "hearts" until we "let" Him. Hold on to your faith. Trust the Lord who upholds and sustains you and let His inner peace give you inner strength and inspiration. Though there will be many distractions and temptations to abandon your faith and give up, keep trusting God ... He is faithful.

Do make a commitment to live Godly life. You will be a blessing to your children (the future generations) and perhaps change the world for good.

Proverbs 31:28-29: "Her children praise her, and with great pride her husband says, "There are many good women, but you are the best!"

Paul Weresch

Christ is Risen! So what?

The cornerstone of Christianity is the resurrection of Jesus of Nazareth. Historically, without the resurrection, the conviction that followed it, and the transformation of the lives of the witness, Christianity could not have survived in the hostile environment of the first century of it’s existence.

While there are a number of apologetic devices that can be used to establish the historicity of the resurrection, let me point out that the eyewitness accounts under the anointing of the Holy Spirit provide ample proof of the resurrection to satisfy an honest inquiring mind.

Now to that Question: So what? Here are a few biblical answers.

Because of the resurrection of Jesus, death will never have any dominion over him and those that are His by faith. Romans 6:8-11 CEV. As surely as we died with Christ, we believe we will also live with him. We know that death no longer has any power over Christ. He died and was raised to life, never again to die. When Christ died, he died for sin once and for all. But now he is alive, and he lives only for God. In the same way, you must think of yourselves as dead to the power of sin. But Christ Jesus has given life to you, and you live for God.

The apostle Paul states that Jesus’ resurrection is the guarantee of our resurrection. “But Christ has been raised to life! And he makes us certain that others will also be raised to life.” 1 Corinthians 15:20 CEV.

In his second letter to the Church at Corinth Paul writes: “In the Scriptures it says, "I spoke because I had faith." We have that same kind of faith. So we speak because we know that God raised the Lord Jesus to life. And just as God raised Jesus, he will also raise us to life. Then he will bring us into his presence together with you. All of this has been done for you, so that more and more people will know how kind God is and will praise and honor him.” 2 Corinthians 4:13-15 CEV.

We are born again to a living hope because of the resurrection of Jesus.

Peter, one of the major eyewitnesses to the life, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ writes: “Praise God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. God is so good, and by raising Jesus from death, he has given us new life and a hope that lives on.” 1 Peter 1:3 CEV

Paul Weresch
(This discussion will to be continued in further blogs)

10/40 Window or The Whole World?

A church in the U.S. has informed one of our missionary families that they will no longer be supporting them as they don't work in the so called' 10/40 window of the world.

(The 10/40 Window is a term coined by Christian missionary strategist Luis Bush in 1990 to refer to those regions of the eastern hemisphere located between 10 and 40 degrees north of the equator, a general area that in 1990 was purported to have the highest level of socioeconomic challenges and least access to the Christian message on the planet.) This church no longer considers Europe to be a mission field.

This is staggering, especially when you consider that the vast majority of Europeans do not attend church, have never been to a church service, and have never heard the Gospel message preached by a Holy Spirit anointed preacher. Europe was Christianized (at times with the edge of a sword) in centuries past but not evangelized. There are still vast areas of Europe that remain unreached by the Gospel. There are tens of thousands of towns and villages that are devoid of any living Christian witness.

While I accept that Luis Bush’s emphasis on the “10/40 window” of the world may have served it’s purpose to draw the attention of the Church to a needy part of the world, as a missions strategy it is unbiblical and irrational.

The bible states; “Go into all the world”. (see Matt. 28:18-20. Mark 13:10) This command refers to evangelism and disciple making, not Christianization. God also expects us to preach this gospel to each successive generations until the Lord returns.

Please do partner with us and all that will proclaim the gospel to the world, but do not neglect other parts of the world just because their ancestors have been Christianized.

Recent events in North Africa and the Middle East have taken the world by surprise. Current happenings are reminiscent of the fall of Communism in Europe in the late 1989. One encouraging thought is that all that has taken place in Egypt and elsewhere occurred nearly overnight. If God can do the politically impossible in a comparatively short time span then surely we can trust Him to do the seemingly spiritually impossible anywhere in Europe! How wonderful and exciting it would be if entire European nations were to be overcome by a spirit of conviction and repentance. "Is anything too hard for the Lord?" Let us ask God for the salvation of Europe.*

Paul

* (Paraphrased from the ECM Update by Vincent Price)

Is Japan our Neighbor?

Japanese officials believe the death toll from Japan’s earthquake and tsunami is almost certain to exceed 10,000. Hundreds of bodies have washed ashore in the hard-hit city of Sendai.

And as this is being written there has been another 6.4 earthquake in Tokyo … nuclear panic continues to grow as there has been a fourth explosion in power plants … thousands are missing and tens of thousands are homeless.

Scripture: Luke 10:25-37 "... "And who is my neighbor?"

This question is part of a dialog Jesus had with a person that was well versed in the teaching of God’s Law.

What would you do if your neighbor is surrounded by great trouble? For the Jewish believer the law of love was plain and simple: treat your neighbor as you would treat yourself.

Jesus told a parable to show how wide God's love and mercy is towards all. What does Jesus' story tell us about true love for one's neighbor?

First, we must be willing to help regardless of the circumstances and reasons for the trouble.

Second, our love and concern to help others in need must be practical. Good intentions and empathizing with others are not enough.

And lastly, our love for others must be as wide as God's love. No one is excluded. God's love is unconditional. So we must be ready to do good to others for their sake, just as God is good to us all.

Thinking about Japan. This is not a time to spread blame or even to ask rhetorical questions. This is the time to help. help by praying and giving.

Please pray for the people affected by this catastrophe, and that God may grant wisdom and direct our steps as we respond.

Please give, missionaries in Japan, World Vision or Samaritan's Purse can be your avenue of help to the neediest in Japan.

Partnering with you,
Betty and Paul

Why Should We Pray For The Muslim People ...

Pray because God loves all people!
The scripture is clear, God loves the world … all people.

The New Testament makes it clear that both Jesus and his Apostles reached out to all people regardless of race or religious persuasion. Jesus further commanded his followers to go into all the world and make disciples of all Nation.

Like all humans, Muslims too have sinned and fallen short of God's glory. (Romans 3:23)

Like all humans, God loved them so much that He sent His son, so that those who believe in Jesus will have eternal life (John 3:16). (For further study read: Ezekiel 18:23. John 3:16-18. John 1:12)

Pray because Muslims also have a hunger for God!
Someone said: That every person has a void in his soul/spirit/life that can only be filled by God. The "God-shaped hole" is the innate longing of the human heart for something outside itself ... something transcendent, something "other." It refers to God placing "eternity in man’s heart."

God made humanity for His eternal purpose, and only God can fulfill our desire for eternity. That includes Muslims. Ecclesiastes 3:11

Pray because of the promise of God to them.
Many Muslims look to 'Ibrahim (Abraham) as "our forefather" (Romans 4:1). Since those who follow Jesus call Abraham "the father of all who believe" (Romans 4:11) … that makes us ‘cousins’!

God made this promise to Ibrahim / Abraham: "As for Ishmael, I have heard you; behold, I will bless him, and I will make him fruitful, and I will multiply him. He shall become the father of twelve princes, and I will make him a great nation" (Genesis 17:20). God fulfilled this promise, for there are over one billion Muslims in the world today!

When God gathers all His people at the end of time, there will be representatives from every people group on the earth, "from every nation and tribe and people and language, standing before the Throne and before the Lamb, clothed in white robes – crying out in a loud voice, 'Salvation to our God who sits on the throne"! (Revelation 7:9,10)

Please pray for the Church of Jesus Christ.
Pray that the Church may rise to the Challenge and become all things to all people, that it may … by all means … save some. (1 Corinthians 9:20-22)

Paul

Who Is In Control?

God controls the events of human history to accomplish his purposes.

God’s rule over human happenings is demonstrated many times in the Bible.

He removes and raises up kings. He gives wisdom to the wise and knowledge to those who have understanding.

The prophet Daniel prayed:

“I thank You and praise You, O God of my fathers; You have given me wisdom and might, and have now made known . . . the king's demand" Daniel 2:23.

When we see disturbing conditions in our world we should realize as Daniel did, that God "reigns over the nations, God sits on his holy throne" (Psalm 47:8; and Jeremiah 18:7-10).

He still rules in the kingdom of men. And while we may not know the extent of God’s rule, we should realize that God is working out his own purposes through contemporary human events.

Please continue to pray for the Middle East and all people in authority so that we may have peace and the Gospel would be preached to all Nations.

Paul

Your Heavenly Father Knows What You Need ...

In the light of the situation in the World today I was reminded of the following quotes:

"There is no such thing in anyone's life as an unimportant day."

"Be glad of life because it gives you the chance to love and to work and to play and to look up at the stars."

"The secret of health for both mind and body is not to mourn for the past, worry about the future, or anticipate troubles, but to live in the present moment wisely and earnestly."

"Your Father knows exactly what you need even before you ask Him!" Matthew 6:8

Yes your heavenly Father knew what you needed before you knew you needed it. Not just in terms of daily necessities, but also with regards to your eternal life.

While you were still a sinner, Jesus came to the earth and paid the full price for your redemption. (Romans 5:8)

He knew what He wanted and what we needed, so He did everything before hand … we could not have done anything for ourselves.

Think about it!

Paul

Dear Friends ...

Praise the Lord, Olga arrived well and Joyful.

It was a great privilege for Betty and I to welcome Olga at the Vancouver International airport. It was a privilege to take some time last night and share our appreciation for goodness of God.

Before we "tucked" her into bed, we took some time to pray again for Russia, for President Dmitri Medwedjew, Prime-minister Vladimir Putin. Now we ask you continue to pray with us for this great Country and its diverse and needy People.

Humanly speaking there is no quick solution to the many problems Russia is facing. The unrest will continue; the many ..."Stans" in the Russian Federation; Kazakstans, Kyrgizstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan and Chechnya will not rest until they have separated and brought in the Sharia Law. Part of the reason for the great strides the extremist are making in the advancement of terrorism are unemployment and poverty.

Please pray for this region, for a unstable Russian Federation is a problem for the entire world.

And let us not forget to pray for North America and Central Europe, where shareholder profit and greed have become the driving force, where the needs of people are disregarded and Life itself has become a commodity.

Please pray for the Christian Church that it may rise to the occasion and proclaim the "good news" to the poor while standing up for Justice and living lifestyles that will reflect the love, grace, and holiness of God.

Please pray.....
Paul

letstalkpw@gmail.com

"I Love Tools"

I have always worked with wood. I love the smell of wood being worked … I love to walk around my workshop fondling some favorite tools. I am especially fond of old tools like the hundred and twelve year old hand plane given to me by Istwan Kovac who made and used it to create many furniture pieces in Hungary

But, I also like new tools. I like the Internet and some of the tools it puts at your disposal.

Think about it! It’s like walking into my workshop and finding among my tools portals to mounds of information.

For instance, the amazing number of wonderful books available … books that can be found on web sites like: http://www.christianbooksummaries.com/, or http://www.bible.org/.

Here are a few titles found on Christian Book Summaries:

Practical Theology for Women: How knowing God Makes a Difference in Our Daily Lives, by Wendy Horger Alsu.
"A better understanding of God’s character, that is, theology, makes me a better wife … when we ladies grow in our understanding
of God’s character and attributes, it can only be a blessing for our homes, our marriages, our churches."

The God-Centered Life, by Josh Moody
"The life and ministry of Jonathan Edwards can inspire us to greater faithfulness, whether or His passions for the gospel and the spread of the kingdom of God have a great deal to teach us in the twenty-first century."

You Were Made for More, by Jim Cymbala with Dean Merrill
"There is a unique assignment God has gifted you for and is calling you to accomplish. When you identify it, roll up your sleeves,
and get started, you will begin to tap into more influence, more energy, and more satisfaction than you ever believed possible."

Fight: Are You Willing to Pick a Fight with the Enemy? by Kenny Luck.
"God's archenemy, Satan, is engaged in a final battle for planet Earth. His focus is on causing those to fall who stand firmest for what is right and good. Victory awaits those willing to stand and fight, surrender to God, and place themselves under His protection."

Real Christianity, by William Wilberforce
"When William Wilberforce became a Christian in 1785, his calling became laser focused on rousing believers to understand the true nature of faith, and bringing about the end of slavery in the British colonies. A dozen years after his conversion he articulated his views in this book."

And, these are just a few of the hundreds of titles available. So, go ahead stroll through a few new tools.

Happy Surfing,
Paul Weresch

PS: If you have any comments for Paul or members of the editorial team, you can email us at: letstalkpw@gmail.com

Be glad ... and have joy in the Lord your God

I received a note from Paul as he reacted to the destruction that is happening in our world. Read what he said:

“In my musing over the Christmas season and the Joy it brought to countless people around the world, I was reminded of the stark reality of life as it unfold before our eyes. My thought went out to the people of Haiti, Sudan, Australia, Brazil and the great tragedy of Arizona.

In times like this it is easy to spread blame, and demonize the other. My prayer is that we would turn to the source of Comfort, Hope and Peace.

Let me give you a portion of God’s Word as spoken to the people of Israel by the prophet Joel. Please read Joel 2:21-32 as he assures us we should have no fear because the Lord will give back the years that have been destroyed. ‘… Have no fear, O land; be glad with great joy; for the Lord has done great things.’

Read it, think about it and pray.”

Paul Weresch

Yes, Joel gives hope to the people of Israel where there seems to be no hope. And, just like the people of Joel’s time, we are given hope in words of the Bible.

Isaiah 34:4, Matthew 24:29-31 and Luke 21:25-28 tell us of the signs in the heavens … to “lift up your heads because your redemption is drawing near.”

Jesus tells us in Matthew 24 to “keep watch” and “be ready” but also to “… see to it that you are not alarmed.”

The Apostle Paul warns and comforts in 2 Thessalonians not to be deceived or to become easily unsettled as the events unfold, because Jesus will keep you “steadfast in the faith to the end.”

Peter reminds us in his second book to be error free by “recalling the words spoken of old by holy prophets” which takes us back to Joel 2:21-32.

Yes, dear friends … there is much happening in the world today to bring sorrow to our hearts. However, let us listen to Joel as he says, “Be glad and have joy in the Lord your God!”

Larry Abele, Editorial Team

… the shepherds said to one another, "Let us go now to Bethlehem and see this thing that has taken place, which the Lord has made known to us."
Luke 2:1-10

Snow storms in Europe, flooding on the east coast of Canada, mud slides in California and grieving families embracing the casket of the son that served in Afghanistan. The list of grief and suffering could go on and on.

This last week has not been calm as some carols would suggest, in fact it has been hectic and confusing. The question comes to mind, "Where is God in all this pain suffering and confusion?" 



As I pondered this question I found myself thinking of Joseph, Mary, some shepherds and a tiny baby in a feed trough. Yes Jesus Christ/God with us in a animal feed trough!

As I think about the inconveniences and grief in the lives of Mary, Joseph, and Jesus on the first Christmas night and the Life that followed I am reminded of the fact that as in those day “God is with us today” I believe the Good News of Christmas is that God is with us in all of this incredible suffering and confusion.
The message of God to us at Christmas is, "In all of life I am with you.”
Think about that. God is in the midst of real life. When people are hungry, God is there. Where people are cold, God is there. Where people are hurting, God is there.

God did not come for those who feel righteous and worthy. God came to the hurting, the lonely, the hungry, the naked and the cold. In the inconvenient birth of the Son, God tells each one of us that we are the objects of his love. Through the birth, life and death of Jesus, God tells us, "I know what life is like and I will always be with you." 



Jesus shows us there is a way. He followed the will of God. He conquered sin and death. He gave us eternal hope … and it all began on a cold night in a stable after an inconvenient journey. 



God is with us. Jesus is here. The promise of Christmas is that Jesus will be with us always. No matter what happens in our lives. No matter what life throws in our path, Jesus is with us.

When life is good we thank Jesus for the blessings. When life is inconvenient and hard we thank Jesus for his presence. In Christ we find all of our joy. In Christ we find all of our peace. In Christ we find all of our hope. With this joy, this peace and this hope, we thank God. With this joy, this peace, and this hope we can turn to one another and say with new meaning and understanding, “Merry Christmas”.

Paul Weresch

For our United States friends ...

How to Pray for the Election

The midterm election is drawing near. Imagine the impact on these United States of America if every elected representative at every level of government in this nation was prayed for every day of the year! Imagine the impact on the quality of decisions made, on our communities and our land ... on each State, County and municipality.

We believe that every believer has the potential to transform the United States of America through the power of the Holy Spirit which is released in every prayer for this nation and it’s leaders.

How do we do it?

• Pray regularly for your elected representatives at every level. - Every prayer can be an invitation to the Holy Spirit to act in and through elected representatives according to the will and wisdom of God.
• Organize prayer events at your church.
• Ask individuals to volunteer to pray regularly for specific elected representatives so that every elected representative is prayed for every day of the year.
• If given an opportunity pray with your elected representatives remembering to:
a. Maintain strict confidentiality.
b. Respect their schedules: Be on time and keep meetings brief.
c. Focus on them and their needs.
d. Take no more than one other person to the meeting.
• Write to your elected representatives to let them know: that you are praying for them, that you encourage them as willing servants of the people

What to pray for the election

• That this election will serve God’s purposes for the United States of America
• That the United States of America will be a country whose elected leaders are
o individuals of integrity, discernment, grace, courage and conviction
o willing servants, people of vision, perseverance and character
• For wisdom, endurance and protection for candidates and their families
• That candidates will be filled with Integrity, courage, humility and grac
• That the Holy Spirit will guide and guard the thoughts and speech of candidate
• That every elector will cherish their right to vote, and that every elector will vote

What to pray for the nation

• Pray that the Holy Spirit will bring a spirit of individual and corporate repentance among Christians across our land
• Pray that Christians would have both grace and humility to demonstrate righteousness, justice, compassion and generosity
• Pray that United States of America will be a country that honors God
• Pray that United States of America will be a nation of diverse people accepting. forgiving, sharing and working together for a better United States of America
• Pray for the spiritual strength of the nation

So then, make a statement of (confess) your sins to one another, and say prayers for one another so that you may be made well. The prayer of a good man is full of power in its working. Jas 5:16

Paul Weresch

Pastor and Friend Martyred ...

The North Caucasus region of Dagestan which borders Azerbaijan and Georgia has been a troubled area for some time. It is also the home of the largest Protestant church in an area that is only 2% Christian. The church, shepherded by Pastor Arthur Suleimanov, has been extremely successful in their work with drug addicts, prisons and other social ills of that region.

On Thursday, July 15, Pastor Suleimanov became one of the Pastors martyred in their work for Christ. I received this letter from Paul and Betty Weresch ...

Dear Friends,
Please pray for the Family and Churches led by Pastor Arthur Suleimanov. Pastor Arthur, as we called him, has been murdered in front of his Home this morning.

Betty and I are deeply moved by this tragedy. I spent some time with Arthur during my visit in Sochi last spring. We were praising God for the great work he and his congregation were doing in the North Caucasus region of Dagestan.

Arthur was one of the pastors that was successfully reaching the people of this region with the Gospel of Christ. It is always a great loss when we see a great witness like that of Pastor Arthur silenced, however we are comforted with the words out of the letter to the Hebrew Christians (Heb. 11:4) "…he (Abel) being dead yet speaketh..."

Pastor Arthur has gone to be with the Lord and he is rejoicing in his presence, now it is we who need to pick up the challenge and redouble our efforts to proclaim the Gospel of Grace and peace to our World, a word that is filled with hatred bigotry and strife.

We will continue to prayerfully support the churches in the North Caucasus, please pray for us as we minister to the Church leadership of this troubled part of the world.
Betty and Paul

As officials attempt to identify the murderer, we must remember the words of Jesus who prophesied to the Church in Matthew 24:9: "Then they will deliver you up to tribulation and kill you, and you will be hated by all nations for My name's sake."

We are not to be loved and accepted by the world, if we are then we are not loving God in the correct manner. Jesus said " Woe to you when all men speak well of you, for so did their fathers to the false prophets." (Luke 6:26).

As we mourn the passing of another of Christ’s soldiers, let us also be encouraged by the fact that Christ is with us … providing the strength to carry on … delivering the Good News to a broken world.

Larry Abele – Editorial Team

He Is Risen!

Look in your Bible and you will find the account in all four gospels.

Mary went to the tomb in which Jesus had been laid and discovered that He was not there.

What a shock that must have been, how heart wrenching … she had not only witnessed the tragic death of her beloved teacher … but then had been deprived of serving him in his death! Imagine the agony she must have felt. The depth of her sorrow.

But then the angels appeared to her and said,

"Why do you look for the living among the dead? He is not here; he is risen!"

If she had found him there in that tomb, we would today be worshipping another dead prophet. However, that one phrase changed everything. "He is not here … He is risen!"

We serve a living God … a Savior … a Father … a Friend.

And because He lives, we who believe in Him shall live also. Because the tomb is empty, Christians around the world fill churches to praise Him and thank Him for His selfless act. Because the tomb is empty, we have hope in the future and guidance in the present. We are not alone!

Let the spirit of Easter live in your heart the rest of your life on this earth ... He Is Risen!

Larry Abele - Editorial Team

In the Fullness of Time ...

January 2010 … a new year … another chance … a fresh start … a time to reflect … a time to resolve. We are constantly measuring and labeling blocks of time. We make plans involving time ... resolving to do this and to do that.

But, how could we not be interested in time. We are created in the image of the Great Timekeeper … our God! He tells us in His word that time is important.

He laid out for us His entire creative process measured in days (Genesis 1:1 – 2:3). He could have done it instantly … why didn’t He? Because He wanted to teach us His normal way of working … through a process.

He eloquently and poetically tells us in Ecclesiastes 3 that "there is a time for everything", again, part of a process.

He tells us in Revelation 21 that a new heaven and a new earth are coming. God is in the process of making all things new.

But the ultimate loving process of God for us is laid out in Galatians 4:4-7:

But when the time had fully come, God sent his Son, born of a woman, born under law, to redeem those under law, that we might receive the full rights of sons. Because you are sons, God sent the Spirit of his Son into our hearts, the Spirit who calls out, "Abba, Father." So you are no longer a slave, but a son; and since you are a son, God has made you also an heir.

God has a plan for all of us involving redemption, restoration, reconciliation and adoption. In God’s time, his plan will be accomplished.

He will be back at precisely the right time. And what should our job be in all of this? Our resolution for 2010? Be ready. Accept what your God has done for you. Believe! Christians are born anew in an instant and through a lifetime process, God makes them new.

Remember, God has a plan for you … it will all work out … "in the fullness of time".

Larry Abele – Editorial Team