Future Ministry Possibilities

When will you return to Bangladesh?

This question comes up a lot and we're working on our plans, however, it is doubtful that we will return to Bangladesh. As much as we learned during our time there and came to respect the team, God seems to be opening other doors. Our experiences so far have continued to shape our priorities and philosophy of ministry. Jon feels a strong desire and sees the best use of his gifts, not just in being a general surgeon, but in working to train others.

In light of this, we've come to greatly respect the work of PAACS (Pan-African Academy of Christian Surgeons), an organization committed to training African physicians in Africa for Africa, a vision that seems to match our own. They, and we, desire to see these future surgeons become leaders in their churches, communities, and other mission hospitals. In order to fulfill this vision, PAACS has established surgery residency programs at several mission hospitals. One critical need is for more board certified general surgeons to be program directors so that they are better able to handle the tremendous demands involved in training and discipling, as well as meeting the surgical needs of the communities served by the hospitals.

Specifically, we've been drawn to a hosptial in Ethiopia. A newer hospital situated in a key location in the horn of Africa, they are actively training surgical residents through PAACS. They are also in need of another general surgeon. More on this later.

Merry Christmas!

Merry Christmas! We celebrate with you the birth of our savior who alone can bring light to penetrate the darkness of our hearts and transform us into his likeness. We rejoice because his kingdom has come and he reigns on the throne. We find hope knowing that he is renewing his creation and are excited to be involved in this work. And we find comfort in the assurance that all of his promises to us will be fulfilled. It is our awe of and gratitude toward this savior that motivate us to reach out in love and compassion and that are the basis for our lives and ministry.

In one of our newsletters reporting our trip to Bangladesh, we quoted Proverbs 19:21, "Many are the plans in a man's heart, but it is the Lord's purpose that prevails." Although we meant this, it has proven to be especially true this year. God has spent the last year affirming some things, saying no to others, and giving us a glimpse of new opportunities that we couldn't have dreamed of on our own. Check back because in the next few days I will include entries that describe these.