"Exchanging Fear for Faith"

Between the unbearable frostbite, the endless supply of food for our constantly empty stomachs, the well-beaten paths to the local Tim Horton's coffee place, and the reduction of our sleeping hours, we actually found time to do something we like to call "ministry." I will guide you through this novel idea by giving a summary of the week.

During the first part of the week, we were given the task of talking to people, finding out who they were, and try to find clever ways of introducing Jesus and His love to people around us. It sounds rather simple and relatively easy until you actually take the first step. Factor in many who are absolutely against anything related to Jesus such as various people, cultures, and religions from all over the world, and you have a significantly difficult task at hand, especially for those who have had very little experience with it. Still it took faith.

Later on, we had the help of some tools that would aid us in the process of conversing with people-- Tim Horton's coupons (their coffee is soooo good!). These coupons tend to be an effective tool since everybody and their brother frequents Tim Horton's on a daily basis. Still it took faith.

Towards the end of the week, we were allowed a little creativity when it came to doing random acts of kindness. We were given the responsibility of taking $600, dividing it into two teams, and using that money in whatever way we felt would be the most effective in giving people a glimpse of a portion of Jesus' love for them. While doing this, we were able to spread the word of the Journey Church to anyone who was interested. Still it took faith.

Some of the ministry that occurred throughout the week was the encouragement and the love given and received between the mission team and the few Christian families that were waiting in earnest for us. This type of ministry, although it generally happened in an indirect way, was definitely well-received and crucial to those involved.

Thanks to all who lifted us up in prayer before and during the trip because it was important to us and the advancement of God's kingdom. As we return back to the "valley" commonly known as our daily lives, may we transport with us what we have learned and applied here in Canada to our routines, cultures, and lifestyles back home. Still it takes faith. -James 2:26

<>< Jonathon Clay