Lenten Devotional for Friday, February 15

Dr. Jim Denison's 2013 collection of Lenten devotionals is entitled, "If My People..." and comes at a time that he believes "a Fifth Great Awakening is sweeping the nations, as more people are coming to Christ than ever before in Christian history. How can you join this great movement of God's Spirit?" He goes on to write, "in this year's Lenten devotional guide, we will walk each day with King Solomon as he leads his nation into God's presence and glory. We will commit ourselves to our Father's purpose and experience his transforming power. And we will claim his promise: 'If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their land' (2 Chronicles 7:14). 'If My People ...' is more than a Lenten guide - it is God's invitation to intimacy with him. Please join us on this joyous journey."

CLICK HERE for a free copy of Dr. Denison's 2013 Lenten Devotional (in a downloadable/printable Adobe .pdf file)

---

Friday, February 15Would you submit to the Spirit of God?
The Shwedagon Paya is a Buddhist temple constructed of gold and covered with more than 5,000 diamonds and 2,000 rubies. The Golden Temple in Punjab, India is covered with gold and precious stones. However, neither is the most glorious temple ever built. Nor was the Parthenon in Athens, the Taj Mahal in India, or the Blue Mosque in Istanbul. Not even the temple constructed by Solomon: when the wise king finished his magnificent structure, he asked: "Will God really dwell on earth with men?" (2 Chronicles 6:18).

His word says that he will. In fact, "God's Spirit lives in you" (1 Corinthians 3:15). You are God's most significant temple. Now he wants to use you as a catalyst for a great spiritual movement in your city and our nation. However, we must be submitted to the Spirit before we can be used by him. Scripture calls us to "be filled with the Spirit" (Ephesians 5:18) — to "be filled" means to be controlled or surrendered.

On this third day of Lent, take a moment for submission. Would you yield your mind and body to the Spirit of God right now? Would you ask him to take control of your life this day and to use you as his catalyst for awakening?

---

Prior to founding the Denison Forum on Truth and Culture, James C. Denison, Ph.D., was pastor of Park Cities Baptist Church, a 10,000-member congregation in Dallas, Texas. He also pastored churches in Midland and Mansfield, Texas, and in Atlanta, Georgia. He earned his Ph.D. in Philosophy of Religion and Master of Divinity from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, and received a Doctor of Divinity degree from Dallas Baptist University. He is also the the author of seven books.

Today in the PC-USA Mission Yearbook

The Mission Yearbook for Prayer and Study is a daily devotional with 365 inspiring mission stories that come from next door and all across the globe. It inspires thousands of Presbyterians daily as they uphold the mission of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) in intercessory prayer. The stories in the 2013 Mission Yearbook were gathered around the question of Jesus to his disciples, “How many loaves have you?” from Mark 6:38. The book is filled with stories of God’s abundance in the face of overwhelming needs and a scarcity of resources.

Today in the Mission Yearbook: February 14, 2013

SYNOD OF THE SUN - The prophet Isaiah once spoke of the newness that would dawn for all humanity: “The people who walked in darkness ... on them light has shined” (Isa. 9:2). While darkness is often used as a metaphor in Scripture, it is also a reality for many of our fellow human beings with whom we share the planet. More than one-fifth of the world’s population (1.6 billion) has no electrical power. However, through the ministry of Solar Under the Sun (SUTS), the light has shined.

CLICK HERE to read more.

Lenten Devotional for Thursday, February 14

Dr. Jim Denison's 2013 collection of Lenten devotionals is entitled, "If My People..." and comes at a time that he believes "a Fifth Great Awakening is sweeping the nations, as more people are coming to Christ than ever before in Christian history. How can you join this great movement of God's Spirit?" He goes on to write, "in this year's Lenten devotional guide, we will walk each day with King Solomon as he leads his nation into God's presence and glory. We will commit ourselves to our Father's purpose and experience his transforming power. And we will claim his promise: 'If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their land' (2 Chronicles 7:14). 'If My People ...' is more than a Lenten guide - it is God's invitation to intimacy with him. Please join us on this joyous journey."

CLICK HERE for a free copy of Dr. Denison's 2013 Lenten Devotional (in a downloadable/printable Adobe .pdf file)

---

Thursday, February 14Have you claimed God's promise for awakening?
Last month, America watched as the president took his oath of offce. Three millennia earlier, another leader made another oath in the presence of God.

After Solomon completed the temple, he stood on a bronze platform in the center of its outer court. He knelt before the entire nation of Israel and spread his hands toward heaven (2 Chronicles 6:12-13). Then he thanked God because "you have kept your promise to your servant David my father; with your mouth you have promised and with your hand you have fulfilled it — as it is today" (v. 15).

Our president promised to "preserve, protect and defend the Constitution of the United States." Your King has promised to give you eternal life if you would make his Son your Lord (John 3:16). He now promises that if his people will approach him with humility, collective prayer, personal passion, and genuine repentance, he will hear us, forgive, us, and "heal our land" (2 Chronicles 7:14).

On this second day of Lent, let's continue our preparation for spiritual awakening by taking a moment for gratitude. Our culture confines God to church buildings and religious activities, but those who know the Lord personally know better. What was the last promise God kept in your life? Would you offer him your thanks? Would you pray for a movement of his Spirit that would fulfill his promise to heal our land today?

---

Prior to founding the Denison Forum on Truth and Culture, James C. Denison, Ph.D., was pastor of Park Cities Baptist Church, a 10,000-member congregation in Dallas, Texas. He also pastored churches in Midland and Mansfield, Texas, and in Atlanta, Georgia. He earned his Ph.D. in Philosophy of Religion and Master of Divinity from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, and received a Doctor of Divinity degree from Dallas Baptist University. He is also the the author of seven books.

Word from Uganda: "News flash, fun VIDEO, and Tshirts"

Missionary teacher Natalie Rolfe writes, "'When He calls me, I will answer ... I'll be somewhere working for my Lord.' My call was Mbale, Uganda and that is where I have returned to serve for another year. Specifically, I am teaching phonics at Lulwanda Children's Home, an orphanage and school for 90 kids." Natalie also keeps an online journal of her service at the weblog, When He calls me, I will answer ...

News flash, fun VIDEO, and Tshirts

For those of you who graciously partner with me through your financial support, I wanted to let you know that Midland Bible Church has moved. Please send checks to their new address:

Midland Bible Church
5900 Whitman Drive
Midland, Texas 79705
(and remember to write "Natalie Rolfe" on the memo line)

CLICK HERE to read the rest of Natalie's post

Today in the PC-USA Mission Yearbook

The Mission Yearbook for Prayer and Study is a daily devotional with 365 inspiring mission stories that come from next door and all across the globe. It inspires thousands of Presbyterians daily as they uphold the mission of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) in intercessory prayer. The stories in the 2013 Mission Yearbook were gathered around the question of Jesus to his disciples, “How many loaves have you?” from Mark 6:38. The book is filled with stories of God’s abundance in the face of overwhelming needs and a scarcity of resources.

Today in the Mission Yearbook: February 13, 2013

MINUTE FOR MISSION: ASH WEDNESDAY - Our pastor passed out small pieces of paper and pencils as we gathered around a table at the front of the sanctuary. On the table were a large bowl, a small container of ashes, and a flask of oil. We sang and prayed in the candlelight, calling the Holy Spirit into our midst. Then our pastor asked us to consider what burdens we had come into God’s presence carrying. What burdens of anger, pain, or disappointment might be keeping us from being able to follow in Christ’s footsteps? He asked us to write these burdens on our pieces of paper and to pray over them.

CLICK HERE to read more.

Lenten Devotional for Wednesday, February 13

Dr. Jim Denison's 2013 collection of Lenten devotionals is entitled, "If My People..." and comes at a time that he believes "a Fifth Great Awakening is sweeping the nations, as more people are coming to Christ than ever before in Christian history. How can you join this great movement of God's Spirit?" He goes on to write, "in this year's Lenten devotional guide, we will walk each day with King Solomon as he leads his nation into God's presence and glory. We will commit ourselves to our Father's purpose and experience his transforming power. And we will claim his promise: 'If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their land' (2 Chronicles 7:14). 'If My People ...' is more than a Lenten guide - it is God's invitation to intimacy with him. Please join us on this joyous journey."

CLICK HERE for a free copy of Dr. Denison's 2013 Lenten Devotional (in a downloadable/printable Adobe .pdf file)

---

Ash Wednesday, February 13
Would you come to God in worship and confession?

It was the most magnificent worship structure the nation had ever seen. Its interior was covered with pure gold (2 Chronicles 3:4). Even its nails were made of gold (v. 9). As the ark of the covenant was put in its place, 120 priests sounded trumpets while others sang praises to God. In that moment, "the temple of the Lord was filled with a cloud," and "the glory of the Lord filled the temple of God" (2 Chronicles 5:13, 14). Can you imagine a more glorious sight?

By contrast, today is Ash Wednesday. This day marks the formal beginning of Lent, observed each year on the seventh Wednesday before Easter Sunday. Its name comes from the ancient practice of placing ashes on worshippers' foreheads as a sign of humility. They are made from palm branches used in the previous year's Palm Sunday and call us to mourn for our sins, remembering that our transgressions caused the death of Jesus. As we begin preparations for spiritual awakening, we should combine both the worship of ancient Israel and the repentance of Lenten observers today. To approach the King of Kings, we "enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise" (Psalm 100:4). As we do, we recognize our sin and need for mercy and forgiveness.

Our culture considers us "spiritual" if we are religious. The truth is, the closer we draw to God, the further away we realize we are. Would you take a moment now to praise your glorious King and then to ask his forgiveness for your sins? Would you pray for a spiritual awakening that would empower his people for worship and confession?

---

Prior to founding the Denison Forum on Truth and Culture, James C. Denison, Ph.D., was pastor of Park Cities Baptist Church, a 10,000-member congregation in Dallas, Texas. He also pastored churches in Midland and Mansfield, Texas, and in Atlanta, Georgia. He earned his Ph.D. in Philosophy of Religion and Master of Divinity from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, and received a Doctor of Divinity degree from Dallas Baptist University. He is also the the author of seven books.

Partners: "Give a gift Made With Love this Valentines Day"

Steve and Oddny Gumaer started Partners Relief & Development in response to the needs of refugees and displaced people from Burma. Their mission is to demonstrate, through holistic action, God’s love to children and communities made vulnerable by war in Burma.

February is often called the month of love. We would like to invite you to give your Valentine a gift of love this year. This gift is so much better than a mass-produced greeting card, flowers that only last some days, or chocolate (although, we have to admit: Chocolate is hard to beat.)

Partners Gifts of Love give food to a child who is hungry; buy supplies to help children attend school or even medicine for those without access to adequate healthcare. A gift of 30 dollars would supply a child and their family for a whole month. One dollar a day is all it takes.

CLICK HERE for more information, and to make a Gift of Love.

From the Partners Valentines
Partners Relief & Development International

EPCAT-USA: Twitter Chat on Human Trafficking, This Wednesday

ECPAT USA is part of a global network of organisations and individuals working together for the elimination of child prostitution, child pornography and the trafficking of children for sexual purposes. It seeks to encourage the world community to ensure that children everywhere enjoy their fundamental rights free and secure from all forms of commercial sexual exploitation.

Twitter Chat on Human Trafficking

ECPAT-USA will be participating in the EILEEN FISHER #EFCSRChat about Human Trafficking in US and Child Labor in India on Wednesday, February 13th, from 12:30 – 1:15 pm EST!

Be sure to follow us on Twitter and tune in Wednesday for an exciting chat. Use the hashtag #EFCSRChat to participate. Look forward to hearing from our Tweeps.

In the News ... "Texas Bible Institute hosts Prayer Culture in West Texas"

By Michelle Brownstone, Reporter
Odessa American

ODESSA, TEXAS - About 1,000 people from all over Texas turned out for Prayer Culture, a prayer and worship service led by youth Friday night at the Wagner Noel Performing Arts Center.

The event was also streamed live at PrayerCulture.tv and texasbibleinstitute.org

“It’s just kind of a spontaneous worship time and a nondenominational prayer and worship service,” Pastor Cliff DeArmond, assistant pastor at Latter Rain Worship Center in Odessa, said.

 • read the rest of this story

Today in the PC-USA Mission Yearbook

The Mission Yearbook for Prayer and Study is a daily devotional with 365 inspiring mission stories that come from next door and all across the globe. It inspires thousands of Presbyterians daily as they uphold the mission of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) in intercessory prayer. The stories in the 2013 Mission Yearbook were gathered around the question of Jesus to his disciples, “How many loaves have you?” from Mark 6:38. The book is filled with stories of God’s abundance in the face of overwhelming needs and a scarcity of resources.

Today in the Mission Yearbook: February 12, 2013

PRESBYTERY OF SIERRA BLANCA, NEW MEXICO - First Presbyterian Church of Hobbs is taking its loaves and fishes and multiplying them in the community. After a yearlong strategic planning process to renew its mission and ministry, First Church decided to focus its efforts and ministry in the areas of hunger, homelessness, and education. It then identified three groups within the community with whom it could partner and forged covenants with those groups that spelled out shared expectations and mutual obligations. First Church is now working with Habitat for Humanity of Hobbs, Isaiah’s Kitchen (a soup kitchen and food bank), and Will Rogers Elementary School, which draws students from the church’s neighborhood. The congregation provides more than just dollars to these organizations. It has also covenanted to provide regular prayer, a set number of volunteer hours, and a significant level of engagement.

CLICK HERE to read more.

ChinaAid: Burma's army shells Kachin headquarters, kills civilians, earns international condemnation

The China Aid Association is a non-profit Christian organization - based in Midland, Texas - with a mission to uncover and reveal the truth about religious persecution in China, focusing especially on the unofficial church. They do this, they explain in their website, by exposing the abuses, encouraging the abused and equipping the saints to advance the kingdom of God throughout China.

Burma's army shells Kachin headquarters, kills civilians, earns international condemnation
Distributed by ChinaAid, January, 2013 ...

Medical workers treating those injured
in the shell attack. (ChinaAid photo)

LAIZA, BURMA (MYANMAR) – Four civilians were killed and three others injured when Burmese government forces shelled the border town of Laiza, the headquarters of the Kachin Independence Organization, as fighting between the two sides escalated in northern Burma, ChinaAid has learned.

CLICK HERE for more on this story from China Aid

Today in the PC-USA Mission Yearbook

The Mission Yearbook for Prayer and Study is a daily devotional with 365 inspiring mission stories that come from next door and all across the globe. It inspires thousands of Presbyterians daily as they uphold the mission of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) in intercessory prayer. The stories in the 2013 Mission Yearbook were gathered around the question of Jesus to his disciples, “How many loaves have you?” from Mark 6:38. The book is filled with stories of God’s abundance in the face of overwhelming needs and a scarcity of resources.

Today in the Mission Yearbook: February 11, 2013

PRESBYTERY OF SANTA FE, NEW MEXICO - The Presbytery of Santa Fe is experimenting with the use of technology in its presbytery meetings. If their partnership with the Presbytery of Sierra Blanca leads to the creation of a new presbytery, technology will be needed to bridge vast distances in the fifth largest state in the country. During one recent meeting, a speaker Skyped in to give a presentation and commissioners tweeted their thoughts. They even began the meeting with “energizers” led by the Presbyterian Student Fellowship.

CLICK HERE to read more.

Today in the PC-USA Mission Yearbook

The Mission Yearbook for Prayer and Study is a daily devotional with 365 inspiring mission stories that come from next door and all across the globe. It inspires thousands of Presbyterians daily as they uphold the mission of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) in intercessory prayer. The stories in the 2013 Mission Yearbook were gathered around the question of Jesus to his disciples, “How many loaves have you?” from Mark 6:38. The book is filled with stories of God’s abundance in the face of overwhelming needs and a scarcity of resources.

Today in the Mission Yearbook: February 10, 2013

MINUTE FOR MISSION: CAMP AND CONFERENCE MINISTRIES - How many loaves have you?” Jesus asked his disciples—and us today. What a blessing that the PC(USA) feasts on an abundance of “loaves” at its camp and conference centers across the continent.

CLICK HERE to read more.

Today in the PC-USA Mission Yearbook

The Mission Yearbook for Prayer and Study is a daily devotional with 365 inspiring mission stories that come from next door and all across the globe. It inspires thousands of Presbyterians daily as they uphold the mission of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) in intercessory prayer. The stories in the 2013 Mission Yearbook were gathered around the question of Jesus to his disciples, “How many loaves have you?” from Mark 6:38. The book is filled with stories of God’s abundance in the face of overwhelming needs and a scarcity of resources.

Today in the Mission Yearbook: February 9, 2013

PRESBYTERY OF GRAND CANYON (aRIZONA) - By the end of each month, Mary’s family of four is out of food. Thanks to help from the Agua Fria Food and Clothing Bank in Avondale, Mary is able to feed her family. For Joel, 20, who lost his job, the food bank is tiding him over. “I’m struggling to eat, and they help you out by giving food,” he says.

CLICK HERE to read more.

Traveling Mission

A TassaTag is a 4” x 6” bright, heavy, hand-woven cotton luggage tag that helps you spot your luggage more easily while reclaiming children's lives. It is practical, environmentally sensitive, fair trade, and with it you can make a difference.

With a TassaTag you support ECPAT-USA. This is a non-profit children's rights organization whose mission is to protect all children from commercial sexual exploitation, and is the US Chapter of Thailand-based ECPAT (End Child Prostitution and Trafficking) International, working at the community, national and international levels.

With a TassaTag you support The Regina Center in Nong Khai, Thailand, which provides education and income generating skills and opportunities for women. All proceeds from sales are returned to the producers. The project enables women to stay in their villages and keep their children in school, which are two major strategies in reducing sex trafficking.
CLICK HERE to learn more about this project CLICK HERE to learn more about sex slavery and trafficking CLICK HERE to order TassaTags

With a TassaTag you will be part of the ECPAT project by increasing the recognition of the TassaTag logo as a symbol against the sexual slavery and trafficking of children, raising greater awareness of this major illegal trade around the world, and being a voice positively addressing a serious children's rights issue.

In the News ... "Church Hosts Social Media Seminar For Parents"

By Ashley Melnick, Reporter
KOSA-TV

MIDLAND, TEXAS - If you're a parent that worries about your child's use of social media, a local church is offering some help.

Golf Course Road Church of Christ will host a Social Media Seminar this Sunday, February 10.

 • read the rest of this story

In the News ... "An actor of God"

By Lyxan Toledanes, Reporter
Odessa American

ODESSA, TEXAS - As a longtime fixture behind the pulpit at St. Barnabas’ Episcopal Church, the Rev. David Mossbarger is not one to shy away from the spotlight.

Beyond the sacred walls of the church, Mossbarger (third from left in this photo) spends his free time living an actor’s life on stage at the Permian Playhouse.

Though Mossbarger dabbled in performing arts in high school, it was only by chance that he reignited his hobby of acting in community theater.

 • read the rest of this story

Today in the PC-USA Mission Yearbook

The Mission Yearbook for Prayer and Study is a daily devotional with 365 inspiring mission stories that come from next door and all across the globe. It inspires thousands of Presbyterians daily as they uphold the mission of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) in intercessory prayer. The stories in the 2013 Mission Yearbook were gathered around the question of Jesus to his disciples, “How many loaves have you?” from Mark 6:38. The book is filled with stories of God’s abundance in the face of overwhelming needs and a scarcity of resources.

Today in the Mission Yearbook: February 8, 2013

PRESBYTERY DE CRISTO (ARIZONA, NEW MEXICO) - For several years the Presbyterian Campus Ministry (PCM) at the University of Arizona had hoped to expand its presence in Tucson to include Pima Community College. With an established ministry at U of A, the leadership believed they could also serve the Pima students. The only question was how.

CLICK HERE to read more.

In the News ... "Rock the Desert announces lineup, events"

Staff Report
Odessa American

ODESSA, TEXAS - The 14th annual Rock the Desert Christian music festival has announced its lineup for the 2013 show that begins August 1.

The three-day event has been held at 2000 S. FM 1788, on private land located about two minutes from Midland International Airport, since 2004, organizer Marcy Tull said.

“Last year, our emphasis was on a mixture of bands and ministry combined with skateboarding and motocross,” organizer Marcy Tull said. “That’s where they do flips like at the X-Games. This year, we’re bringing that back and also speakers from the Whosoevers for Thursday. The band Flyleaf is part of that. We’ve wanted Flyleaf to come here for eight years and we were finally able to do that.”

 • read the rest of this story

Today in the PC-USA Mission Yearbook

The Mission Yearbook for Prayer and Study is a daily devotional with 365 inspiring mission stories that come from next door and all across the globe. It inspires thousands of Presbyterians daily as they uphold the mission of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) in intercessory prayer. The stories in the 2013 Mission Yearbook were gathered around the question of Jesus to his disciples, “How many loaves have you?” from Mark 6:38. The book is filled with stories of God’s abundance in the face of overwhelming needs and a scarcity of resources.

Today in the Mission Yearbook: February 7, 2013

SYNOD OF THE SOUTHWEST - The Synod of the Southwest has been challenged, as have many others, in the area of communication. Covering an area of 235,587 square miles, the synod has four presbyteries and serves 162 congregations and their 28,872 members. In addition to widely dispersed congregations, the synod is home to several Native American reservations where Internet connections have sometimes been difficult to establish. Added to the distance challenge, continuing reduction of financial resources made finding new ways to talk to and work with each other critical.

CLICK HERE to read more.

Today in the PC-USA Mission Yearbook

The Mission Yearbook for Prayer and Study is a daily devotional with 365 inspiring mission stories that come from next door and all across the globe. It inspires thousands of Presbyterians daily as they uphold the mission of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) in intercessory prayer. The stories in the 2013 Mission Yearbook were gathered around the question of Jesus to his disciples, “How many loaves have you?” from Mark 6:38. The book is filled with stories of God’s abundance in the face of overwhelming needs and a scarcity of resources.

Today in the Mission Yearbook: February 6, 2013

BRAZIL, Pt. 2 - A recent survey by Todd Johnson, director of the Center for the Study of Global Christianity, reveals that Brazil is sending the second highest number of missionaries to the rest of the world: around 34,000. Thirty years ago that number was a few hundred at best! The following story may help us make sense of such astounding growth. It is told by Nídia Mafra, lovingly known as “Bugra,” a missionary of the Independent Presbyterian Church of Brazil working in Florianópolis.

CLICK HERE to read more.

Invitation to Prayer

Faces of Children is an ecumenical prayer ministry under the auspices of First Presbyterian Church of Midland, Texas. Our mission is to initiate ministries of prayer for children in churches, communities, and neighborhoods. In doing so, we seek to provide an opportunity for people of God to join together, learn about children and their needs throughout the world, and celebrate Christ's love (especially as it relates to children).

Prayer for Our Children

"Dear God,
There are no words for the depth of my love for
     this child.
I pray for her care and her protection.
I surrender her into your hands.
Please, dear God, send your angels to bless and
     surround her always.
May she be protected from the darkness of
     our times.
May she always see you at the center of her life.
May her heart grow strong,
To love you and serve you.
I surrender, dear, God, my parenthood to you.
Make me the parent you want me to be.
Show me how to love most patiently,
     to be there for her most fully,
To understand profoundly who she is and what she needs.
May this family be a blessing unto her
     now and forever.
May she learn here values and principles of love
     and righteousness.
May she learn from me kindness.
May she learn from me strength.
May she learn from me the lessons of power:
That she has it and
Must surrender it to you, to be used for your
     purposes throughout her life
For thus shall you be gladdened,
And thus shall she be free,
To live most fully and love most deeply.
That is my wish.
That is my prayer for her and for me forever.
Amen."

Illuminata, a Return to Prayer
by Marianne Williamson

A message from Chris Laufer, Coordinator, Faces of Children

Greetings, Faces of Children Prayer Partner,

I thought this prayer was beautifully written and one we can pray for the children in our lives, whether they are female or male, children or grandchildren, nieces or nephews, neighbors' children, or children we encounter in our daily routines.

In fact, I think this may be a most appropriate prayer for children who have no parents or family. Please pray this prayer with me for children who have been abandoned, orphaned, thrown away, or treated as though they were invisible. Pray with me they might know the love of a parent figure and a community as family. Pray with me they might know how beloved they are by our Divine Parent, our Savior, and our Comforter.

Would you also pray with me for parents who struggle to parent their children...for parents who have abandoned their children...for parents who have no support system...and for parents who do not know of God or God's abundant love, mercy, and grace?

The Faces of Children prayer group will meet on Wednesday, February 6, 2013 at 11:30 a.m. in the Bride’s room at First Presbyterian Church-Midland, with lunch ($5) and fellowship to follow.

If you have prayer concerns or celebrations about children, those who care for them, those who have authority over them, or those who harm them (the really hard prayers to say sometimes), please send them to me at at claufer@facesofchildren.net, or give me a call.

Blessings,

Chris

Today in the PC-USA Mission Yearbook

The Mission Yearbook for Prayer and Study is a daily devotional with 365 inspiring mission stories that come from next door and all across the globe. It inspires thousands of Presbyterians daily as they uphold the mission of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) in intercessory prayer. The stories in the 2013 Mission Yearbook were gathered around the question of Jesus to his disciples, “How many loaves have you?” from Mark 6:38. The book is filled with stories of God’s abundance in the face of overwhelming needs and a scarcity of resources.

Today in the Mission Yearbook: February 5, 2013

BRAZIL, Pt. 1 - How many loaves have you? When Jesus challenged his disciples with this question, he was involving them in the solution to the problem: the need to feed the crowd. Jesus had the power to do the miracle all by himself but chose to use his disciples, urging them to go and seek the resources needed: “How many loaves have you?”

CLICK HERE to read more.

ChinaAid: Well-known preacher detained twice in December for evangelizing in Shenzhen park is released

The China Aid Association is a non-profit Christian organization - based in Midland, Texas - with a mission to uncover and reveal the truth about religious persecution in China, focusing especially on the unofficial church. They do this, they explain in their website, by exposing the abuses, encouraging the abused and equipping the saints to advance the kingdom of God throughout China.

Well-known preacher detained twice in December for evangelizing in Shenzhen park is released
Distributed by ChinaAid, January, 2013 ...

SHENZEN, CHINA – A well-known preacher who was detained twice in December for evangelizing in a park in the southern city of Shenzhen and held for 13 days under administrative detention has been released, ChinaAid has learned.

CLICK HERE for more on this story from China Aid

Today in the PC-USA Mission Yearbook

The Mission Yearbook for Prayer and Study is a daily devotional with 365 inspiring mission stories that come from next door and all across the globe. It inspires thousands of Presbyterians daily as they uphold the mission of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) in intercessory prayer. The stories in the 2013 Mission Yearbook were gathered around the question of Jesus to his disciples, “How many loaves have you?” from Mark 6:38. The book is filled with stories of God’s abundance in the face of overwhelming needs and a scarcity of resources.

Today in the Mission Yearbook: February 4, 2013

ARGENTINA, PARAGUAY AND URUGUAY - Eugenio, a pastor, has two passions: his radio program and athletics. Every week for nearly three years he went to the local radio station to broadcast his program, Sin Ruidos (without noises). During the same period, he trained every day for a marathon on the occasion of the anniversary of his town.

CLICK HERE to read more.

Today in the PC-USA Mission Yearbook

The Mission Yearbook for Prayer and Study is a daily devotional with 365 inspiring mission stories that come from next door and all across the globe. It inspires thousands of Presbyterians daily as they uphold the mission of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) in intercessory prayer. The stories in the 2013 Mission Yearbook were gathered around the question of Jesus to his disciples, “How many loaves have you?” from Mark 6:38. The book is filled with stories of God’s abundance in the face of overwhelming needs and a scarcity of resources.

Today in the Mission Yearbook: February 3, 2013

MINUTE FOR MISSION: SOUPER BOWL OF CARING - Lord, even as we enjoy the Super Bowl football game, help us be mindful of those who are without a bowl of soup to eat.” Little did I know that these words of prayer would spring to life. Little did I know that the hearts and minds of students across the U.S. would prove to be fertile soil for the movement of God’s grace being born that Sunday morning long ago. I’m talking, of course, about the Souper Bowl of Caring.

CLICK HERE to read more.

Today in the PC-USA Mission Yearbook

The Mission Yearbook for Prayer and Study is a daily devotional with 365 inspiring mission stories that come from next door and all across the globe. It inspires thousands of Presbyterians daily as they uphold the mission of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) in intercessory prayer. The stories in the 2013 Mission Yearbook were gathered around the question of Jesus to his disciples, “How many loaves have you?” from Mark 6:38. The book is filled with stories of God’s abundance in the face of overwhelming needs and a scarcity of resources.

Today in the Mission Yearbook: February 2, 2013

THE PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN CANADA - The bell on the front door jangles cheerily as the first customer of the day enters the cafe at Saskatoon Native Circle Ministry’s (SNCM) drop-in center. “Hi, Stewart!” she calls out to Rev. Stewart Folster, SNCM’s director. “Is there soup today?” There is. Volunteers have made two big pots of soup that bubble on the stove.

CLICK HERE to read more.

Sparkling Mission

“The people walking in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of the shadow of death a light has dawned.” Isaiah 9:2

Annie Dieselberg, founder and CEO, heads the staff at NightLight, a ministry in urban Bangkok, Thailand, that reaches out to women and children working in the bar areas of the Nana-Sukhumvit district. Located in a neighborhood with a growing sex trade, Nightlight’s vision is to share the Light of the world in both word and deed to those who live in darkness, and to combat the sexual exploitation of women and children, both Thai and foreign.

Right now, Annie tells us, the greatest need at NightLight is to sell more jewelry. NightLight Design Co., Ltd. is a registered jewellery business which employs women coming out of prostitution or having been at risk of prostitution and/or trafficking.

If you are interested in hosting a jewelry party please write to NightLight, at jewelry@nightlightinternational.com , and they will assist you in setting that up. NightLight representatives are available for parties and events. If you’d like to host a jewelry party or have a representative at your event, contact Nightlight at that same e-mail link.

Remember the beautiful jewelry is also available on-line at store.nightlightinternational.com/

"God is going before us to the bars preparing the way. He is sending us to receive the women and give hope," Annie writes. "We ask you to join us in this adventure. Thank you to those of you who already do. You are saving lives!"

Today in the PC-USA Mission Yearbook

The Mission Yearbook for Prayer and Study is a daily devotional with 365 inspiring mission stories that come from next door and all across the globe. It inspires thousands of Presbyterians daily as they uphold the mission of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) in intercessory prayer. The stories in the 2013 Mission Yearbook were gathered around the question of Jesus to his disciples, “How many loaves have you?” from Mark 6:38. The book is filled with stories of God’s abundance in the face of overwhelming needs and a scarcity of resources.

Today in the Mission Yearbook: February 1, 2013

CHILE - Protecting the environment is a major concern of the Evangelical Presbyterian Church in Chile. We believe that humankind is called to administer the earth’s resources for the common good and to protect the environment for future generations. Today we see that this fragile trust is often violated by those who have political and economic power. As prophets in service to life, we are called to challenge those who seek to exploit our nation’s water and mineral wealth for unsustainable, short-term gain leading to long-term poverty, hunger, and thirst.

CLICK HERE to read more.

In the News ... "Giving hope to new moms"

By Lyxan Toledanes, Reporter
Odessa American

ODESSA, TEXAS - Tiffany Udave was pregnant with her first child when she and her husband lost their jobs.

Without the security of a steady income and the assurance of another job soon on the way, Udave didn’t know how she would afford to take care of herself or her baby – until she found out about Hope Chest.

Hosted by Highland United Methodist Church, Hope Chest is a community-run incentive and education program that rewards “points” to pregnant women and mothers with kids up to 2 years old.

 • read the rest of this story

Today in the PC-USA Mission Yearbook

The Mission Yearbook for Prayer and Study is a daily devotional with 365 inspiring mission stories that come from next door and all across the globe. It inspires thousands of Presbyterians daily as they uphold the mission of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) in intercessory prayer. The stories in the 2013 Mission Yearbook were gathered around the question of Jesus to his disciples, “How many loaves have you?” from Mark 6:38. The book is filled with stories of God’s abundance in the face of overwhelming needs and a scarcity of resources.

Today in the Mission Yearbook: January 31, 2013

BOLIVIA - As the youth of UMAVIDA wandered the exhibit hall, observing the photo reports taken by their peers, one could feel the energy of the exchange of experiences and the curiosity and knowledge that it created. UMAVIDA (Uniendo Manos por la Vida, “Joining Hands for Life”) is the Bolivian Joining Hands network, one of 10 Joining Hands networks of the Presbyterian Hunger Program, which works with religious and secular community groups to address root and systemic causes of hunger, poverty, and injustice. As water is an ever-pressing issue in Bolivia, whether the concern is about contamination, access, or treatment, UMAVIDA’s mission is to advocate and build awareness about water issues.

CLICK HERE to read more.

In the News ... "Helping The Homeless In Odessa"

By Josh Navarro, Reporter
KWES-TV

ODESSA, TEXAS - Every other Sunday, a local church prepares non-perishable meals and blankets to give out to those who live on the streets. They say it's part of their church's mission to touch the lives of those who are in need.

Sleeping bags and boxes full of food are handed out to those who are in need.

"This is just like Christmas to me, this is just wonderful," Dee Dixon, who is homeless, said.

 • read/watch the rest of this story

Today in the PC-USA Mission Yearbook

The Mission Yearbook for Prayer and Study is a daily devotional with 365 inspiring mission stories that come from next door and all across the globe. It inspires thousands of Presbyterians daily as they uphold the mission of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) in intercessory prayer. The stories in the 2013 Mission Yearbook were gathered around the question of Jesus to his disciples, “How many loaves have you?” from Mark 6:38. The book is filled with stories of God’s abundance in the face of overwhelming needs and a scarcity of resources.

Today in the Mission Yearbook: January 30, 2013

PERU - Our work is to strengthen PC(USA) partnerships with Reformed denominations in Peru. Recently our church signed a formal partnership agreement with a Peruvian denomination that has 2,000 churches. Where does one start to get to know such a large church? In their wisdom, Peruvian leaders said, “Start in the south with these three leaders.”

CLICK HERE to read more.

In the News ... "Answering the call to God"

By Lyxan Toledanes, Reporter
Odessa American

SAN ANGELO, TEXAS - The Roman Catholic Church remains the single largest Christian church worldwide.

But in spite of such dominance, the religion has endured a priest shortage unique to the United States.

While in past years the shortage has been more prevalent, the Rev. Rodney White, vocations director for the San Angelo Catholic Diocese, said the country and the diocese is slowly improving. White reported that the diocese currently has 15 seminarians currently studying to become priests, a record high for the diocese.

 • read the rest of this story

Today in the PC-USA Mission Yearbook

The Mission Yearbook for Prayer and Study is a daily devotional with 365 inspiring mission stories that come from next door and all across the globe. It inspires thousands of Presbyterians daily as they uphold the mission of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) in intercessory prayer. The stories in the 2013 Mission Yearbook were gathered around the question of Jesus to his disciples, “How many loaves have you?” from Mark 6:38. The book is filled with stories of God’s abundance in the face of overwhelming needs and a scarcity of resources.

Today in the Mission Yearbook: January 29, 2013

COLOMBIA - Give them something to eat.” That is Jesus’ categorical imperative to his disciples in the face of their lack of solidarity with the weary and hungry multitude. This text, read broadly, makes us rethink the way our churches are called to attend to the primary needs of communities in extreme poverty and need. As a church, we might think it would be enough to tell these communities to go to the government to resolve their needs and then forget about them, but then we hear once again the words of Jesus, “Give them something to eat.”

CLICK HERE to read more.

ChinaAid: January 2013 Newsletter

The China Aid Association is a non-profit Christian organization - based in Midland, Texas - with a mission to uncover and reveal the truth about religious persecution in China, focusing especially on the unofficial church. They do this, they explain in their website, by exposing the abuses, encouraging the abused and equipping the saints to advance the kingdom of God throughout China.

January 2013 Newsletter
Distributed by ChinaAid, January, 2013 ...

MIDLAND, TEXAS – From Bob Fu ... China Aid’s ministry is unique among China-focused organizations because, in addition to providing training and financial support to the persecuted faithful and advocating on their behalf, we also support their legal defense. I want to tell you about some of the exciting results of our legal defense efforts.

CLICK HERE for more on this story from China Aid

In the News ... "Children's Fellowship Building Ribbon Cutting at Mid-Cities"

Staff Report
KOSA-TV

MIDLAND, TEXAS - Mid-Cities Church opened its Children’s Fellowship building, and hundreds of West Texans came out for the ribbon cutting ceremony.

Congregation officials say the church campus expanded 54,000 square feet of space to provide service for future generations. In it, there are rooms with different themes and activities.

 • read/watch the rest of this story

Today in the PC-USA Mission Yearbook

The Mission Yearbook for Prayer and Study is a daily devotional with 365 inspiring mission stories that come from next door and all across the globe. It inspires thousands of Presbyterians daily as they uphold the mission of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) in intercessory prayer. The stories in the 2013 Mission Yearbook were gathered around the question of Jesus to his disciples, “How many loaves have you?” from Mark 6:38. The book is filled with stories of God’s abundance in the face of overwhelming needs and a scarcity of resources.

Today in the Mission Yearbook: January 28, 2013

VENEZUELA - More than 30 years ago, the first case of AIDS was identified. People infected with the virus have suffered anguish, abandonment, and death. Looking for answers to their painful and strange state of health, they approached the churches, but the majority of churches maintained silence and turned their back.

CLICK HERE to read more.

Today in the PC-USA Mission Yearbook

The Mission Yearbook for Prayer and Study is a daily devotional with 365 inspiring mission stories that come from next door and all across the globe. It inspires thousands of Presbyterians daily as they uphold the mission of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) in intercessory prayer. The stories in the 2013 Mission Yearbook were gathered around the question of Jesus to his disciples, “How many loaves have you?” from Mark 6:38. The book is filled with stories of God’s abundance in the face of overwhelming needs and a scarcity of resources.

Today in the Mission Yearbook: January 27, 2013

MINUTE FOR MISSION: CRIMINAL JUSTICE - Criminal and justice: mutually exclusive words, unless justice is understood as “punishment.” In the Old West, “bringing someone to justice” meant that the bad guy was going to face the music.

Understood this way, justice is always bad news for someone.

CLICK HERE to read more.

ChinaAid: 2012’s Top 10 Cases of Persecution of Churches and Christians in China

The China Aid Association is a non-profit Christian organization - based in Midland, Texas - with a mission to uncover and reveal the truth about religious persecution in China, focusing especially on the unofficial church. They do this, they explain in their website, by exposing the abuses, encouraging the abused and equipping the saints to advance the kingdom of God throughout China.

2012’s Top 10 Cases of Persecution of Churches and Christians in China
Distributed by ChinaAid, January, 2013 ...

MIDLAND, TEXAS – 2012 was a year of dramatic upheavals for the Chinese government and Chinese society. The eruption of one explosive and unexpected incident after another provided the Chinese people as well as the rest of the world with a stream of cliff-hanging, dramatic news stories. Current events changed, a leadership transition took place, but the church of Jesus Christ continued to be on the receiving end of various forms of persecution. Nevertheless, the church continued to quietly hold fast to the faith, awaiting the fullness of the days of suffering.

CLICK HERE for more on this story from China Aid