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Newsletter

“Another Message from Elden”

May Newsletter, 2018  Rick McPherson

Recently we received a generous check from a friend of the Mission.  It came to us from his brother who explained that Elden had passed and in his Last Will & Testament he had named our ministry and wanted a portion of his estate to be given to God’s work.  What a surprise.  What a blessing. 

Elden was known to us and had been thoughtful and deliberate in his giving to our work through the years.  The first time I met him he was standing in his driveway and was directing our truck to back up and retrieve a refrigerator that he was donating.  Later, as his health failed, he moved to a care facility and gave us the furnishings of his home!  He was a friend of Pacific NW Outreach and Native Americans.   

Now as I reflect over his last and final gift, I realize that his commitment was to make sure that even in death his wishes would be carried out and the ministry that he loved would be the recipient of a portion of his worldly possessions.  It was so true of Elden to make sure that every detail was done and his Will was evidence of that fact. 

Let me encourage you to think similarly.  When you die with a Will & Testament document, it will be fulfilled according to the letter of the Law.  You can designate your estate however you want and it can include ministries that you have supported as well as your family and loved ones.  It only takes a little time to do it and the benefits are incredibly worthwhile and valuable.  Instead of putting it off, take time to prioritize it for the sake of your family and your wishes.   Dying without a Will & Testament will guarantee that not one penny of your estate will be given to God’s work. 

WE GOT HACKED!

One of the cruel realities of modern technology is the fact that information on computers can be “hacked” by the unscrupulous.  It happened to us!  The virus attacked our system affecting our QuickBooks files, our mailing list, our historical pictures and documents.   The information on our system was “scrambled and locked.”  We have been able to recreate most of our important information.  The experts have assured us that no personal and confidential information was accessed from our system.  That was a relief!  The “window of opportunity” to further harm our system was very small.  We have now taken steps to further protect our computers and the ministry. 

MAILING LIST

The “life line” of this ministry is the mailing list.  IF you know of a friend, relative, coworker, neighbor or church friend who once received this monthly communique and because of the “hacking” has been dropped….PLEASE LET US KNOW.  We are rebuilding to the best of our ability.  Any help you give is GREATLY appreciated!   Or, if you would like to receive this newsletter via email each month, we can do that for you. 

*****

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Newsletter

“In Memory”

April Newsletter, 2018  Rick McPherson

Don Cline the founder of Frontier Missions has passed from this life and entered his eternal reward.  He was 95 years of age.

Born in Scappoose Creek, Oregon, Don was ordained with the Wesleyan Methodist Church and pastored in the Pacific Northwest before assuming oversight responsibilities for the denomination in this area.  While moose hunting in British Columbia, Canada, he encountered a great spiritual need in the Native community.  Because of a personal conviction to not hunt on Sundays, he offered a Gospel service instead for the community.  Natives, hunters, loggers and cowboys gathered.  After the message several responded to commit their lives to Christ as their Savior.  One of them was a big Indian!  He pleaded, “Come and help us.  The nearest church is one hundred miles away and we only have horses.  Please, help us!” 

Later that night as Don prayed and walked the perimeter of a rustic horse corral, he called out to God, “Why don’t You do something?  Why don’t You help these people?”  The response Don heard from God that starry night in western Canada surprised him, “Why don’t you?” 

That simple question was the beginning of Frontier Missions.  The ministry formed with volunteers, pickup trucks, trailers and anything and everything that could be collected and taken to reservations across the country. Groceries, clothing, boots and household items were delivered and the Gospel of Jesus Christ was preached.   As years passed the old pickup trucks became shiny big rigs with names like International, Western Star, Peterbilt and Freightliner.  The trailers got bigger and better and bore names like Great Dane and Fruehauf. 

Native Americans on reservations as far away as Rose Bud and Pine Ridge, South  Dakota;  Crow Agency and Wolf Point,  Montana;  Warm Springs and Celilo, Oregon;  White Swan and Quinault, Washington;  have all been affected by the positive message of God’s love, acceptance and forgiveness. 

Now serving the Native American community, both urban and rural, under the name, Pacific NW Outreach, Inc., the ministry continues.  We have Native pastors, tribal leaders and community organizers who are on the ground in the reservations we serve helping every hour, every day, every week.  The ministry continues to grow and proclaim the Gospel of Jesus Christ. 

We are still responding to the plea of that big Indian in British Columbia who said, “Please, help us!” 

THANK YOU FOR HELPING US, HELP THEM.

 

*****

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Newsletter

“Jesus Loves the Little Children”

March Newsletter, 2018  Rick McPherson

I was privileged to be raised in a Christian home.  As a child I remember attending Sunday School and singing songs like, “Jesus Loves the Little Children.”  The lyrics accurately portray the very heart of God towards us and counter the divisive and vicious racism and bigotry that attacks our world today.                                                 

Jesus loves the little children, all the children of the world,

Red and yellow, black and white, they are precious in His sight,

Jesus loves the little children of the world.

The music was written by George Root in 1864 as a Civil War marching tune.  Later, the lyrics by Clare Woolston were added and children have been singing it ever since.  It certainly is appropriate as we present this month’s newsletter and show this picture of a precious Hispanic boy receiving a box of food from one of our recent missions’ trips. 

Although the winter weather affected us we were still able to provide for three separate locations in the last thirty days.  Trucks and trailers were loaded with groceries and household supplies and delivered to help families and children…red and yellow, black and white.

I’m reminded of how important children are to Jesus.  One passage in St. Matthew’s Gospel says it this way, “Then little children were brought to Him that He might put His hands on them and pray, but the disciples rebuked them.  But Jesus said, ‘Let the little children come to Me, and do not forbid them; for of such is the kingdom of heaven.’  And He laid His hands on them…”  (19:13-15)

In another passage the disciples were arguing about status and prestige, asking Jesus, “Who then is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?”  The Biblical narrative says that Jesus called a little child and set him in their midst and said,

“Unless you are converted and become as little children, you will by no means enter the kingdom of heaven.  Therefore whoever humbles himself as this little child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven.  Whoever receives one little child like this in My name receives Me.” (St. Matthew 18:1-5)

While children come to Jesus readily, there is more hesitancy for adults to respond.  Grown-ups seem to lose the innocent faith and trusting nature that children possess.  Yet in this passage Jesus invites us to come to Him “like little children” and says “whoever humbles himself like this little child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven.”                                                         

WHAT DO YOU THINK?  We have all sinned and deserve God’s judgment.  God the Father sent His only Son to satisfy that judgment.   Jesus, the eternal Son of God, who lived a sinless life, loves us so much that He died for our sins, taking the punishment that we deserve, was buried and rose from the dead.   If you truly believe and trust in your heart, receiving Jesus as your Savior, you will be saved from judgment and spend eternity with God in heaven.

  1. Yes, today I am deciding to follow Jesus.
  2. Yes, I am already a follower of Jesus.
  3. I still have questions.
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Newsletter

“Restoration Is a Good Word”

February Newsletter, 2018  Rick McPherson

I admit it.  I’m addicted.  For as long as I can remember, I’ve liked cars.  As a kid, I remember riding in my Dad’s Studebaker calling out the make, model and year of the cars around us.  Every September the automobile dealers would drape their showroom windows so no one could see the designs for the model year.  It was a big deal when you got to see one of the new cars!  Now, unfortunately, people refer to their vehicle by color.  “It’s the blue one over there!”

The addiction has not gotten better as I have gotten older.  I have accepted the fact that I have a condition without a cure.  Cars, trucks, motorcycles…anything with wheels and an engine that burns fossil fuel will interest me; particularly if the engine goes, “vroom!” 

Now don’t get me wrong.  I’m not complaining.  My malady has introduced me to some wonderful people and experiences.  There are mechanics, painters, fabricators, upholsterers, racers, promoters, hobbyists, pin-stripers, caterers and characters who are in my life and who have brought me great joy because of my disease.   I really should write a book and tell some of the hilarious stories.  So many of the memories have started with a simple suggestion to build or restore something.  “That’s a great idea,” was usually my response. 

Actually, restoration is a good word.  In a world where most folks just throw things away, “car guys” plan a project, they plan a restoration.    If you define the word, you learn:  the action of returning something to a former owner, place or condition.  Restoration is a process.  Restoration is a passion.  Restoration is a pleasure.  

Now let me tell you, there is a tremendous similarity between automotive restoration and what we do in ministry.  The fact is there are lots of people who are broken, worn out, used up and good-for-nothing.  The world says, “Throw ‘em away!”  The Native American culture that we serve is filled with people that are overlooked and forgotten.  They’ve been thrown away.    They are banged up, dented and the wheels have come off.  They are in need of a complete restoration.  They need to be overhauled.   That’s where we come in.

Our Chilton’s Repair Manual gives these directions…

“…if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold all things have become new.”  II Corinthians 5:17

“…I make all things new …write, for these words are true and faithful.”   Revelation 21:5

“He raises the poor out of the dust, and lifts the needy out of the ash heap…”  Psalm 113:7

The Good News is that the Master Restorer is still working.  His shop is open.  It’s always open…24/7/365.  No job is too big or too small.  He can handle any project.    Why not bring Him what you’ve got and ask about a complete restoration?   Remember, it’s a good word!

*****

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Newsletter

“Twenty Greateen!”

January Newsletter, 2018  Rick McPherson

I wish I had thought of it.  And, if I could remember where I saw it first and who said it, I would give credit.  But I can’t.  So I’ll just use it.   It’s the New Year and when I saw, “greateen,” it took me a minute to figure it out.  Oh, yeah, eighteen.  I get it.  Making it great is even better. 

Like me, you may have resolved to not resolve anything for the coming twelve months.  Just, let-er-fly and see what happens.  “Que sera sera,” right?  After all if it was good enough for Doris Day, it’s good enough for me.  The paradigm of “whatever will be, will be,” has captured many.  And today it’s been condensed to the sarcasm of, “whatever!”  Really?

After a good night’s sleep and the tedium of the Rose Parade, I’ve decided to start my year with a commitment to make it great, or at least as great as I can.  To do so, I have to constantly remind myself of the difference between what I can control and what I cannot.  Big difference!  Most of my heart-burn occurs when I confuse the two.  So I’m choosing to focus on the former and let the rest go.  My wife humorously condenses this thought by saying, “Not my circus…not my monkeys!” 

Here are a few thoughts about things that I can control and by focusing on them my new year should be great.  At least that’s the plan. 

 I can control my speech…

No one puts words in my mouth and makes me say them.  All the words that I say happen because I choose to say them.  Because of that,  I want to say words that will help, encourage, inspire, heal, comfort and bless.  I want my words to bring life and not death.  I want to do a great job of what I say.

I can control my time…

Well, most of the time, I can.  Life does upset our schedules on many occasions, and there’s nothing you can do about it.  But I have leisure time and recreation time and family time and I can control how I invest it.  My most precious commodity is time because I can only invest it once.  I want to do a great job of investing my time. 

 I can control my food…

My Mom used to say, “Your eyes are bigger than your stomach.”  Mom hasn’t seen my stomach, lately.  She used to also say, “You are what you eat.”  Mom was pretty smart!  But Mom’s not here anymore and I have to control what I put in my mouth.  It’s not someone else’s job, it’s mine.  I want to do a great job of what I eat.

 I can control my thoughts…

Jesse Penn Lewis wrote, “Your mind is not a playground, it’s a battleground.”   My thoughts are mine alone; no one is forcing me to think a certain way.  I have the ability to choose my thoughts and think thoughts that are;  positive or negative, helpful or hurtful, loving or cruel, spiritual or carnal, eternal or temporal.  I want to do a great job of controlling my thoughts. 

Well, that’s it for now.   All of us at Pacific NW Outreach wish you every blessing in the coming months.  Be blessed.  Be encouraged.  Be well.   

MAY TWENTY GREATEEN BE YOUR FRIEND!

*****

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Newsletter

Blistering Hot or Freezing Cold

December Newsletter, 2017  Rick McPherson

On the other side of this page are the people that represent the ministry of Pacific NW Outreach, Inc.  It’s a wonderful group!  These are board members and staff that make the ministry happen every day and throughout the year.  Whether it’s blistering hot  or freezing cold with biting east winds, these folks are working hard to fulfill our mission.  All of us want to say a heart-felt “Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!” to each of you.  And, a big thank you for your generous giving and prayer support throughout the past twelve months.  Without you…this ministry could not survive!  But with you…we are able to continue and tell not only the wonderful story of Jesus’ birth, but also the love, acceptance and forgiveness that is the Gospel message. 

THANK YOU!  GOD BLESS YOU!  Only Heaven knows the results that have been achieved in the lives of Native Americans, because you cared!

*****

For those of you who would like a receipt for your giving this year, please contact Charlote :  503 492 0904 or charlote@pacificnwoutreach.org

Because we are a 501 (c) (3) corporation, your giving is tax deductible.

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Newsletter

Thanks & Giving

November Newsletter, 2017  Rick McPherson

I was thinking about this newsletter driving home from the Nez Perce Reservation in Idaho.  The truckload of groceries, insulated children’s boots and household supplies was excellent and almost filled the pantry for Pastor Antonio and the N.A.M.E. church in Lapwai.  As we finished, we formed a big circle on the sidewalk and street and prayed a prayer of “Thanksgiving!”  I couldn’t help but think how appropriate it was, particularly at this time of year.  Another thought was, “not ashamed…”  We are not ashamed of the Gospel, the Light of Jesus, the Truth of His mission and the ministry that we do, helping one another.  We’ll tell the story of God’s love, acceptance and forgiveness to anyone, anywhere, anytime. 

It really is a privilege of mine to write to you each month and say, “Thanks for giving!”  And, during the month of November, what could be more appropriate?

Because of your giving throughout the year we are able to do this ministry and make a difference in the lives of Native Americans both physically and spiritually.  Although I say it a lot, let me say it again, you’re the greatest and every financial gift you send is greatly appreciated! 

It’s true, you can give without loving, but you can’t love without giving!  When you love someone or something, you want to give.  It’s a verb, an action that expresses your feelings.  In fact, it’s a theological principle.  The Bible says, “For God so loved the world that He gave…”  John 3:16.  Aren’t you glad?  

As you gather with your family and friends during the holidays, be blessed and encouraged.  Eat well.  Sleep well.  Be well.  Know that you are loved and appreciated by all your friends and partners here at Pacific NW Outreach. 

Now if you’ll excuse me, I’m going to the kitchen for another slice of pumpkin pie!

*****

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Newsletter

An Important Lesson from Cal and George

September Newsletter, 2017  Rick McPherson

The pastor* preached a very good sermon on Sunday.  It was about loyalty.  In his opening he stated that it is a virtue that is uncommon in our world and seems to have lost its importance. In this generation it’s rare that loyalty is shown to anything or anyone.   To illustrate the contrary,    he included Hall of Famers, Cal Ripken, Jr., of the Baltimore Orioles, and George Brett, of the Kansas City Royals both of whom played their entire Major League Baseball careers for the same franchises.  They demonstrated loyalty to their teams, their owners and management and their cities.   Even as a lifetime Boston Red Sox fan, I have to tip my cap to them both, not only for their incredibly successful careers, but also for the important characteristic of loyalty that they displayed.    What an important lesson from Cal and George. 

But the message didn’t end without a challenge.  There were four areas of loyalty that the pastor challenged us to examine in our lives.  Are you loyal to God… loyal to your spouse… loyal in your relationships… and finally, are you loyal in your service to God?  It was powerful.  Carefully, slowly and prayerfully, I worked through the list.  My personal review and results are too private to discuss here, but the last item on the list is not. 

When I think about loyalty in my service to God, there are a lot of obstacles.  Apathy, fatigue, resentment, boredom and loneliness are just a few of the things that come to mind.  These are in fact devices, which the Enemy uses effectively to keep me from fulfilling what God is asking.    One time the Apostle Paul was urging Believers in Corinth to, “reaffirm their love to God,” (II Cor. 2:11) and he reminded them to not let Satan take advantage of them, “for we are not ignorant of his devices.”  What?  Devices?  Like, what?  Well, anything that works.  Be smart enough to know what they are. 

Your list of obstacles may be completely different.  But, trust me, we all have them.  The truth is that the Enemy will do anything and everything he can to stop us in our service to God.  He hates loyalty, especially when it comes in our service to God.  His intention has not changed …he will kill …he will steal …and he will destroy.   He doesn’t want to just defeat us…he wants to destroy us. 

But here’s the good news.  “He who is in you is greater than he who is in the world.” (I John 4:4)   In sports vernacular it goes like this; “WE’RE NUMBER ONE!”

So today, would you take a moment and rethink your loyalty to serve God?  As I write, I know that many of you have displayed incredible loyalty to the ministry of Pacific NW Outreach, Inc. and the work of helping Native Americans both physically and spiritually.  God bless you for your loyalty.  If there was a Hall of Fame for loyal supporters, you’d be in it!  For others, the obstacles have been overwhelming and maybe you’ve been affected by his devices.  Let me encourage you to stand up, brush yourself off and get back in the game.  Loyalty is not quitting.  Loyalty is the tattoo that says, “UNSWERVING ALLEGIANCE.”

Thanks Cal!  Thanks George!  Not only are you enshrined in Cooperstown for consecutive games played, total base hits, home runs, Gold Glove awards, Silver Slugger awards and  All-Star Game appearances, but you have also shown us an incredible example of loyalty.  Now, I think I’ll head over to the batting cage and see if I can catch up to a 99 mph, “heater!”

+++++

*Pastor Larry Rounsley, Liberty Bible Church, Vancouver, WA

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Send Me In Coach

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The Black Rubber Wristband

July – August Newsletter, 2017  Rick McPherson

The guy at the back of the church had a whole basket full. 

“Take one,” he said.  “They’re free!”

Never wanting to pass up a free anything, I did.  When I looked closely, I saw the words, “PRAY FIRST” were inscribed.  Now, that’s a good reminder for all of us, I thought.  I pulled the black, rubber, wristband over my hand and the directive started to sink in.   

Later, when I looked at the pictures from one of our recent trips to the Reservation, I thought of the wristband and the practice we have of always praying before our trips.  When the truck is loaded we gather staff members and form a prayer circle and commit the trip and ministry to the Lord in prayer.  We PRAY FIRST.  And, boy do we need it!

Since our last letter to you we have served two Pow Wows (Delta Park, Portland, OR and Wiconi International, Turner, OR) and two Reservations, (Celilo Indian Village, Yakama Tribe, The Dalles, OR and the Quinault Tribe, Lake Quinault, WA).

Each of the loads have been excellent!  Not only have we served Native Americans with canned goods and food supplies but also insulated leather boots, household supplies with linens, pillows, blankets and foam mattresses.  When the doors open and they see that the pallets contain cereal, cookies, cakes, chips and soft drinks, it’s hard for the recipients to not grin from ear to ear.  It’s a good thing when you hear, “Hey, look at this!”   

I want to remind you that none of this would be possible if it was not for people like you who contribute financial gifts to make this happen.   Really!  We could not do this ministry without help.  And, you have helped us.  In this life we may not know all the results, but Heaven’s books are accurate and the ledger doesn’t lie. 

Let me also include our great need for your prayer support.  Often in these newsletters I solicit your prayers and my requests are always sincere.  I learned a long time ago that nothing of spiritual significance occurs without preceding prayers.  Interestingly, one of the first requests from the disciples was, “Lord, teach us to pray.”  Not, preach, sing, lead, organize or evangelize…teach us to pray!  I don’t think prayer is any less significant now.  It’s what enables every ministry.  (Luke 11:1)

It may not be a black, rubber, wrist band that you’re wearing today to remind you, but nonetheless the instruction is clear for every situation… Family…School…Job…Decisions…Relationships…Activities…Church…and ministry to Native Americans!

PRAY FIRST