Anyone ever read the book “Beyond the Gates of Splendor”? I was engrossed in this book from the time I read the first line! Maybe I had hoped to relate in a shallow sort of way to the adventure these men and women took on in bringing the Word of the Lord to the native tribes of Ecuador. One might think that the story of these warriors in the faith could easily be forgotten in the more than fifty years that have passed since their work began. I have to tell you, however, that their witness speaks to me so powerfully even today! I covet their incredible passion for sharing the story of our savior and their unrelenting desire to save souls. These brothers and sisters are part of a great “cloud of witnesses” in my life. I find myself trying to appreciate, even grasp, their peace in following God into this foreign field of strange languages, uncomfortable accommodations and to tribes of people much of the world doesn’t know exists. Its very hard to imagine the fate these mssionaries met as the “will of God.” But I think if they were alive today each would tell us that their deaths were an instrument God was able to use to bring these tribes to him. Facinating, isn’t it? I think these faithful would tell us they would die all over again if that meant more would come to know the Lord. I believe they’d find real peace in knowing that. Even amid a sense of uncertainty, I can imagine no other real adventure, no other peace than following his perfect will for my life. Strong words, I know. But as God continues to grant me glimpses of the peace he offers, the peace that only comes from choosing his will for my life, I’m getting more and more “hooked,” more and more caught up in his calling for me.

We are grateful that God has granted our team the peace in knowing that this is what he has chosen us for. As God continues to nurture Mision Lima, you can imagine our excitement as we take step after step towards this God-led adventure. While I hesitate to compare the modernity of Lima, Peru to the forgottenness of these jungle tribal lands, I do sense a welcomed similarity. I am glad that God is molding us, preparing us to serve him in Lima. I am glad that God is preparing churches and individuals to partner with us in this effort. We hope that you the reader will seek this same peace for your life. We feel confident about this mission, confident that God is leading us through his gates into a world of splendor as we serve the people of Peru.

Pray also for me, that whenever I open my mouth, words may be given me so that I will fearlessly make known the mystery of the gospel, for which I am an ambassador in chains. Pray that I may declare it fearlessly, as I should. Ephesians 6:19-20