WAW Wednesday ... Burdens and Blessings

"The Word at Work is a ministry that mobilizes churches and individuals to answer God's call to minister to those in need," writes Rev. Tim Tam, Director of the Amarillo, Texas-based ministry. "Through our relationships, God reveals needs and opportunities for service. As we come along side the poor, new friendships develop and doors for ministry open. As we serve, God provides the resources to supply for the needs he reveals."

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Burdens and Blessings

Hello Friends,

When I prepare teams for their re-entry back to the States after serving in Belize, I encourage each of them to hang on to their "Belize Joy". If you've been on a trip with us, you'll likely know what I'm referring to - many of you reading this know the depth of this Joy and it causes you to return to Belize to see your friends again and again. It may also cause you to examine your life at home and look for those things that are stealing the Joy you found in Belize. This joy isn't just found in Belize though - it comes when we freely share the reason for our Hope with others; when we loosen our grip on the bounty God provides for us; when we slow down long enough to see suffering in those around us and take the time to share their burden.

This week between Christmas and the New Year has always felt a little odd to me. So much energy goes into preparation for the celebration of Jesus's birthday .... and then there's this quiet .... this stillness .... and we begin to reflect on the past year and plan for the coming one. We may spend the time reflecting on the burdens that have been lifted or those that we still carry. We may count our blessings and thank God for those who have blessed us. Or, we may find ourselves wondering about the blessings and burdens to come. In 2017, may we be encouraged by God's perfect plan; may we put His word into action, by serving others, sharing our burdens and being generous with our blessings. Together we surely are the Word at Work.

Gratefully,

Mollie
The Word at Work

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The 2016 Christmas Project was incredible ... as we delivered gifts to our partners all over Belize we reminded each of them that these gifts are provided by God. He gets all the glory! We couldn't help but share a few smiles with you - both young and young-at-heart! Thank you to all who shared their blessings to make it all possible!

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Progress for Exodus Church ... Hurricane Earl may have interrupted Discovery Church's plan; but, it multiplied the blessing they brought and experienced working with Exodus Church in Belize City! Part of their group came in August after the storm and taught swimming to many of the youth leaders there. The rest of the team arrived December 17 and jumped right in to Christmas VBS, spreading fill on the new property to prepare for building, and Christmas caroling through the neighborhood near the church. We look forward to how the relationship between these two churches will continue to grow!

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EDITOR'S NOTE: Speaking from my own first-hand experience - working side-by-side with Tim, Kenny and our brothers and sisters in Belize - won't you give thoughtful, prayerful consideration to supporting the efforts of Tim, the Word At Work staff and their partners? Please please fill out this Commitment Card and return it to their office!

Also, remember that you can follow The Word At Work on their Facebook page!