Sunday, February 15, 2009

Finishing Strong

The days are flying by now--a whirlwind of services and taxi rides. We love every minute of it. We can tell things are getting harder for Brooklyn, though. He's running out of things to do in our room and gets a little frustrated trying to entertain himself. We've officially exited what's known as the "honeymoon stage" of our trip and have entered the press. Our goal is to finish this trip strong!

We're averaging almost two services per day which vary from women's groups, youth services, worship workshops, school chapels, factory services, and cell groups. We were surprised when asked to minister at a Christian Junior High school on Saturday. That's right--school on Saturday. There were over 200 kids and about 7 teachers to manage them all. It was a great way to spend Valentine's Day morning!

That night both Missy and I spoke at a youth group in one of our favorite villages. This particular youth group started with 18 kids just 3 weeks ago and has now reached a total of 70 youth attending each week! Praise God! It opened our eyes to the importance of ministry for the youth of Batam. The Pastor of this particular church told us that since they started youth ministry, the entire face of their church has changed. She said that the church property looks like a youth center on Sunday mornings after the main service--youth everywhere hanging out, playing games, and eating food. Hallelujah!

Missy and I hope you all had an incredible Valentine's Day. We spent most of our day at services, but took time that night to talk about all God has done in our lives as a couple and as a family. (Over Pop-Tarts and grape juice!) Before this trip, we often found ourselves looking and waiting for God to show us His love. Whether it was through a healing, financial blessing, or whatever, we were always searching for more evidence of God's love. Little did we realize that His love had already been poured out on us in so many ways. First through the broken body of Jesus, and then by the provision of a house, family, and church that are true blessings and examples of God's love for us.

Time's running out... bitter-sweet. We'll be home in about a month. Please pray with us as we strive (by the grace of God) to finish our course strong!

7 comments:

Brandon Yerxa said...

Brandon & Missy,

We are standing with you, believing for GRACE and PROVISION in every aspect of your lives and ministry...you are finishers and I know you will "FINISH STRONG" and complete ALL God has for you to do.

Please know we will, and continue to be, pressing with you in the spirit during your final month. We will be lifting up Brooklyn as well, I pray God touches him in a very special way these last days of your trip and that his experience in Indonesia end with joy and peace.

We miss you and look forward to your return.

Brandon

ps...I'm super pumped that we are both having sons...it's going to be an amazing summer.

christine said...

Grace! This is going to be the best month yet for you guys. You will be hearing Gods voice clearer then ever, cant wait to hear more more testimonies...I can FEEL them commin'!

Thank you Jesus for the blood on you as you 'finish strong'(...in the Lord and in the power of His might!)

Love you all SO much...

Christine

mommak said...

We're believing with you for a strong finish and GRACE for you all to keep going (especially Brooklyn)!! Its been so AWESOME to see what God has been doing though and in your family... I know He'll continue the GOOD work He began in each of you!

Sunday said...

You can do it, you can do it!! I remember when I had a month left of Rhema, it was tough. I didn't make the most of it like I should have, and I regret that. You guys are so busy, the time will FLY by. And you can keep telling yourself, man good I thing we just kept pushing through that last month - look at all the fruit!! You have the rest of your lives to enjoy everything you want when you get home and God is so proud of ALL you are doing. We'll for sure pray for GRACE for Brook's - that's been what's got you this far, and He will carry you through!! Just think when you get home you can celebrate EASTER, and an easter basket for Brooklyn - FUN!! Love you guys!

suddenfire said...

this family is strong in the lord and the power of his might...they all (brandon, missy, and brooklyn) have the strength for any task laid before them!

Brooklyn is strengthened with all might in his inner man by the spirit of God almighty..and the same strength and spirit that raised Christ from the dead lives and dwells in him and thru him!

Love ya guys...you can do it!

Brie said...

Our prayers are right there with you! We know that you guys will FINISH STRONG! It's awesome to hear about all that is happening with the youth- So COOL!! You'll be home before you know it so cherish every moment the rest of your time there! LOVE YOU GUYS!!!

Tace and Carmen said...

HIS Spirit will continue to see you through. It's been amazing to hear about the details of your assignment!! We are praying for the specific prayer needs you listed. God will preserve you on level ground and a narrow path (kind of like bumper bowling). :) Manifold Blessings!
LOVE! ~ T & C