Missionary Update            December 10, 2004 Letter

Dear Grace Bible Church,

    Merry Christmas from our tropically warm home to yours!

    The other day Aurino, the first spiritual grandchild, completed chapter 14 (the presentation of the gospel) of The Stranger On The Road To Emmaus with two men. I got to hear their testimonies first hand. Truly the very power of God has been unleashed in their lives. I was amazed at their understanding and passion It was just like Cleopas and his companion's response in Luke 24:32,33. Many of you have prayed for these studies. In the coming weeks, the gospel will be presented in 3 other studies as well. A new study will begin with a young couple in Alto Brasil, a town about an hour from here. It's so exciting to see children and grandchildren in the faith sharing the gospel in a clear, non-threatening and understandable way and then see the deep satisfaction as their new children in the faith grow and mature in Christ. We can't thank you enough for your prayers.

    In November two men who have taught Stranger studies, accompanied me to give a presentation in a church in São Luís (the state capital). It is a new church and they are very anxious to be trained and start using The Stranger as a tool for evangelism. Yesterday, another man called me and wants to start using the Stranger in his new ministry in the city of Imperatriz (five hours away). PLEASE PRAY THAT BY THE 15TH OF FEBRUARY WE WILL HAVE THE STRANGER IN PRINT AND AVAILABLE FOR THE PUBLIC. We also need the Lord's wisdom and direction in how to get this book distributed at the lowest cost possible. Thankfully, God is raising up people in other parts of Brazil who want to help.

    We can't thank you enough for your gift of $167. Because of your sacrifice, we can give ourselves fully to the teaching of the gospel and shepherding of the saints. We're grateful to have you as part of our team.

    I spent a week at a Team Leader's Conference in Whiting, New Jersey in November. Leaders from the countries where CrossWorld (formerly UFM) serves, participated. It was an excellent time of personal growth and training. Living in community (intimate relationships) in the body of Christ and being involved with the world around us at the heart level was repeatedly emphasized by those who ministered during the conference. Communicating the gospel clearly and effectively was also a strong theme.

    One thing that has been true throughout history is that when the gospel goes forth and people are set free from sin and Satan's bondage, there always has been and always will be opposition. The rewards now and later, are more than worth the costs involved. Please pray we will press on with hearts full of joy and hope until every tongue and tribe and nation has disciples of Jesus Christ.

    The lady Debby is teaching to read, is progressing well. Please pray Debby will have wisdom in approaching her about going through the Stranger study. Debby wants to make sure the lady really desires to do the study and is not just trying to please her.

    Wish we could be with you for this very special Christmas season.

In Christ our Lord,

Jim, for all