Lenten Devotional for Monday, February 18

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)

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Monday, February 18
Could God use war to promote awakening?

Today is "President's Day." Most people don't know that our government still o fficially calls this holiday "Washington's Birthday." The day was originally celebrated on February 22, our rst president's actual birthday, but was moved to the third Monday in February and now honors all U.S. presidents.

Without the military leadership of Gen. Washington, there would be no nation to remember his birthday. America needs such heroes today, as we continue the War on Terror against radical Muslims who are convinced that killing us is a defense of Islam required by the Qur'an. Why has God allowed this persistent threat against our people?

When Solomon dedicated his temple, he prayed, "When your people Israel have been defeated by an enemy because they have sinned against you and when they turn back and confess your name, praying and making supplication before you in this temple, then hear from heaven and forgive the sin of your people Israel and bring them back to the land you gave to them and their fathers" (2 Chronicles 6:24-25). The king knew that God allows and uses military enemies to show us our need for his protection and grace. On this sixth day of Lent, would you ask God to protect our military as they protect us? Would you ask him to redeem the War on Terror by making it a catalyst for spiritual awakening in America and the world?

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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 17, 2013

MINUTE FOR MISSION: HEALTH AWARENESS, AND PRAYER FOR HEALING - The church is called to be a healing presence in the world today. “Then Jesus summoned his twelve disciples and gave them authority over unclean spirits, to cast them out, and to cure every disease and every sickness” (Matt. 10:1).

Bob Kidd, an elder at Trinity Presbyterian Church in East Liverpool, Ohio, lost his beloved wife, Karen, on May 1, 2009. Nine days later he began an effort to set aside a day of prayer for healing. He wrote: “I have been doing quite a bit of thinking and have noticed that there are days of prayer across the United States for different reasons. I would like to start a day of prayer for the eradication of cancer and for healing and comfort for the people that are fighting this disease.”

CLICK HERE to read more.

Lenten Devotional for Sunday, February 17

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)

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Sunday, February 17
Have you wronged your neighbor?

The Day America Told the Truth is a revealing look into our nation's soul. Its authors asked thousands of Americans about their personal lives and habits. The confidential answers they received tell us more about ourselves than we may want to know. For instance, 74 percent of us say "I will steal from those who won't really miss it." And 91 percent of us admit that we lie regularly.

As Solomon continued his service of dedication at the temple, he prayed: "When a man wrongs his neighbor and is required to take an oath and he comes and swears the oath before your altar in this temple, then hear from heaven and act" (2 Chronicles 6:22-23). How many of us need such repentance today?

Jesus defined our "neighbor" as anyone who needs us (Luke 10:25-37). His second Great Commandment is to "love your neighbor as yourself" (Matthew 22:39, quoting Leviticus 19:18). Would your neighbors say that you are obedient to this command? When was the last time it cost you something signi cant to help someone in need?

On this fifth day of Lent, would you ask the Spirit to show you any relational sins in your life? Would you then confess them to the Lord, asking him to cleanse you so that you might be an instrument of spiritual awakening?

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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 16, 2013

CIMARRON PRESBYTERY, OKLAHOMA - Jesus and the disciples grieve the loss of their friend and mentor John the Baptist by continuing to work long hours in the mission field! Jesus, seeing their fatigue, suggests a vacation, but their notoriety is so great they cannot escape the crowd. In spite of their grief and exhaustion, they nourish the crowd with food and fellowship.

The Manna program at First Presbyterian Church (FPC) in Enid also rises above grief and exhaustion. At the end of 2011, FPC was in schism over recent constitutional changes in the PC(USA). Nearly half the membership and the pastor departed. The future of FPC was uncertain.

CLICK HERE to read more.

Lenten Devotional for Saturday, February 16

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)

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Saturday, February 16Would you commit to daily prayer for awakening?
Benjamin Franklin was a great pragmatist. When his father was returning thanks over their family dinner, which was comprised of food stored in their smokehouse for the winter, Franklin suggested that they pray once over the storehouse and be done for the season.

Solomon would have disagreed. As he continued his service of dedication for the new temple, he prayed, "Hear the supplications of your servant and of your people Israel when they pray toward this place. Hear from heaven, your dwelling place; and when you hear, forgive" (2 Chronicles 6:21). Today the Jewish people continue this tradition at Jerusalem's Western Wall, where someone is praying 24 hours a day every day of the year.

Why is continued prayer important to God? He knows what we need before we ask him (Matthew 6:8), and yet he calls us to "pray continually" (1 Thessalonians 5:18). Prayer does not inform God or change his character. Rather, it positions us to receive all that his grace intends to give. And it connects us with the Holy Spirit as he molds us into the character of Christ (Romans 8:29).

On this fourth day of Lent, would you make a commitment to pray every day for spiritual awakening in our nation?

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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.

Rolling Mission

Founded in 2001, Free Wheelchair Mission is an international nonprofit organization dedicated to providing wheelchairs for the impoverished disabled in developing nations. Headquartered in Irvine, California, FWM works around the world in partnership with a vast network of humanitarian, faith-based and government organizations, sending wheelchairs to hundreds of thousands of disabled people, providing not only the gift of mobility, but of dignity, independence, and hope.



The new and improved model!

Want to take one for a test drive? During normal business hours, visit the lobby at the Texas Street entrance of First Presbyterian Church-Midland, at the northwest corner of Texas and A streets, on the west side of downtown Midland. You can give the gift of mobility. The cost of $72.00 is a bargain to us ... but it is a life-changing gift to impoverished and disabled recipients ... and for a limited time, your contribution will be matched, reaching not one - but TWO recipients. Please note on your check "Wheelchair Matching Gift."

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 15, 2013

PRESBYTERY OF ARKANSAS - Hunger relief is a focus of the Presbytery of Arkansas. The Gretta Lane Mission, an outreach of Barr Memorial Presbyterian in west Arkansas, each week distributes food to 140–220 families living in a community with no grocery store or gas station and a county where 17.7 percent of residents have incomes below the poverty level. In eastern Arkansas, Graham Memorial Presbyterian of Forrest City, after participating in Arkansas Rice Depot’s Food for Kids program, began a weekly soup kitchen that now serves 800 meals monthly to hungry residents of St. Francis County. In central Arkansas, Stewpot, housed at Little Rock’s First Presbyterian and staffed by volunteers from area congregations, has since 1978 served 125–175 meals each weekday to homeless individuals and families.

CLICK HERE to read more.

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)

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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?

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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)

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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?

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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)

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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?

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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.