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A Day at the Beach

June – July Newsletter, 2016  Rick McPherson

Yesterday we went to the beach.  The sun was shining, the water was blue, and the sky was crystal clear.  At the end of the day we built a small fire.  I’m told that the three most soothing sounds are wind, water and fire. If that’s the case, we had them all.   When you add family, fish and chips and Tillamook ice-cream, you have the makings of a perfect day.  

I’m not sure that you could compare the Pacific Coast to the Sea of Galilee, because of the Tillamook ice-cream, but there are other similarities.  Maybe that’s why Jesus spent most of the three years of His ministry along the shore of this freshwater lake.  Here He gave more than half of His parables and here He performed most of His miracles.  Here He preached the Sermon on the Mount, called Simon Peter and his brother, Andrew, to follow Him, fed 5,000 people and calmed the stormy sea.    There was something that drew Him.  Numerous times, he left the crowds and the city to head for the mountains, the wilderness and the beach.  I would like to think He built a few fires and ate some fresh fish along the way.  In the midst of all the demands, Jesus knew how to get away and restore His soul. 

As I think and pray about our ministry and mission helping Native Americans, physically and spiritually, I see similarities to the life of Christ.  Much of our work is done in remote and rural settings.  Many times we’re in the mountains or at the shore.  The people we serve are needy.  They are hungry.  They are sick.  They are addicted.  They are demeaned.  They are imprisoned.  But, they are not forgotten! 

Every box of groceries, every pair of boots, every blanket, every winter coat or pair of jeans that we deliver is fulfilling Jesus’ Great commission, “Go, therefore and make disciples of all nations…”  Matthew 28:19.  The physical aspect of this ministry enables us to build relationships, trust and confidence so that we can tell the greatest story of God’s love, acceptance and forgiveness! 

And, you’re a part of it.  None of us is all of it.  But all of us can be a part.  By joining with others to pray for this ministry, you support and sustain us during the rigors of the battle.  We do get tired and your prayers do make a difference. 

Finally, your financial gifts enable us to continue.  It costs money to buy diesel fuel, tires, truck parts and supplies for these trips.  We simply couldn’t do this without people like you.  Will you prayerfully ask the Lord what you can do at this time and then do it?  Thank you for your partnership in this ministry and for your faithfulness. 

I’m hoping that the softness of summer will soothe your emotions and refresh you in every way.    Enjoy your vacation.  Eat well.  Sleep well.  Be well.  Maybe you’ll enjoy several bowls of your favorite ice-cream, too!

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