I Walk in Danger All the Way
Tuesday of this week was our monthly all-team gathering - four-part affairs that begin with a business meeting. I was at the helm for much of this one, since it hinged on the upcoming DR FORO. Seventeen partners from across the US are arriving throughout the day today; we thank God for the sacrifices they are making to spend the weekend experiencing the Latin American church. Pray for safe travel and that our discussions would be edifying as success stories are shared and visions for the future are laid out.
Following that, our regional chaplain, Rev. Dr. Jonathan Naumann (who, with wife Deac. Cheryl, arrived back in-country at 3 am Tuesday morning after suffering a heart attack in September and recovering for nearly 6 mos. in the States), led us in the title Bible study, based on the Scandinavian hymn by the same name. We don't like to think about Satan and his legions prowling around and seeking inroads with which to devour us, but as missionaries, that is our inevitable reality. Satan wants nothing more than to frustrate our efforts however he can. Dr. Naumann outlined some symptoms of spiritual attacks. Interestingly, most are subtle and wouldn't normally be associated with the language of warfare: inexplicable fatigue, despair, interpersonal conflict, a sense of unworthiness, comparing oneself to others and coming up short, feeling like one can do nothing right (and the converse - thinking one does everything right), and the like. I've experienced some personally and seen others played out in my teammates, even during the very meeting that preceded the study. The result of an immense workload, the stresses of living and raising a family abroad, financial pressures, burnout, or compassion fatigue, maybe...but spiritual warfare?
Yes. Individuals who forsake home and family for the sake of the Gospel are the Devil's prime targets. Instead of experiencing joy and satisfaction in our vocations, he wants us to feel guilty, question God's wisdom in calling us to this place, and ultimately, abandon our posts. Thankfully, the study didn't end there. One of the hymn's later verses starts off "I walk with angels all the way." Much as these heavenly helpers attended to our Lord Himself after his encounter with the Tempter, we too benefit from their protection and aid! Luther's Morning and Evening Prayers even beckon their presence: "Let Your holy angel be with me, that the evil foe may have no power over me."
Satan surely fled in terror at what came next: Divine Service, presided over by Dr. Naumann.
Before the fourth and final component of the marathon afternoon (a potluck), Regional Director Ted Krey & family were honored for having walked in danger - albeit with angels - for ten years on the mission field.
Following that, our regional chaplain, Rev. Dr. Jonathan Naumann (who, with wife Deac. Cheryl, arrived back in-country at 3 am Tuesday morning after suffering a heart attack in September and recovering for nearly 6 mos. in the States), led us in the title Bible study, based on the Scandinavian hymn by the same name. We don't like to think about Satan and his legions prowling around and seeking inroads with which to devour us, but as missionaries, that is our inevitable reality. Satan wants nothing more than to frustrate our efforts however he can. Dr. Naumann outlined some symptoms of spiritual attacks. Interestingly, most are subtle and wouldn't normally be associated with the language of warfare: inexplicable fatigue, despair, interpersonal conflict, a sense of unworthiness, comparing oneself to others and coming up short, feeling like one can do nothing right (and the converse - thinking one does everything right), and the like. I've experienced some personally and seen others played out in my teammates, even during the very meeting that preceded the study. The result of an immense workload, the stresses of living and raising a family abroad, financial pressures, burnout, or compassion fatigue, maybe...but spiritual warfare?
Yes. Individuals who forsake home and family for the sake of the Gospel are the Devil's prime targets. Instead of experiencing joy and satisfaction in our vocations, he wants us to feel guilty, question God's wisdom in calling us to this place, and ultimately, abandon our posts. Thankfully, the study didn't end there. One of the hymn's later verses starts off "I walk with angels all the way." Much as these heavenly helpers attended to our Lord Himself after his encounter with the Tempter, we too benefit from their protection and aid! Luther's Morning and Evening Prayers even beckon their presence: "Let Your holy angel be with me, that the evil foe may have no power over me."
Satan surely fled in terror at what came next: Divine Service, presided over by Dr. Naumann.
Before the fourth and final component of the marathon afternoon (a potluck), Regional Director Ted Krey & family were honored for having walked in danger - albeit with angels - for ten years on the mission field.
Fellow missionary Lizz compiled a slideshow set to music.
I can't wait to try out the Kreys' gift from the missionary team - a BBQ table - at Sunday's cookout with FORO partners!
I've been on the field < 10% of that time yet have experienced Ted's compassionate, empowering, wise leadership in myriad ways. His wife and five kids are a joy to share life with, as well. Oddly, I found myself a bit envious, for lack of a better term, as I watched the slideshow. It's difficult to explain, but it was something like craving that kind of longevity and longing for the day when I, too, will have a bank of memories, photos from the moving to the hysterical, and stories of how angels trumped danger to look back on.
Then came part four, the centerpiece of which was a Dominican delicacy called pastelón, a hearty layered dish of yucca puree, cheese, and ground beef.
Since the FORO will keep me pretty busy through Monday, I'm hoping to walk - in danger and with angels but also in the sunshine and with my iPod - at the Botanical Gardens this afternoon. More soon!
Until next time, blessings!
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