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August,
2005
Greetings Team Members:
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Greetings...this fine August—which may be the Hottest yet? I
wish my last summer in the United States would be perfect
weather...but alas...it has been strange. We have gone through
many Cloudy/rainy days in May, then almost no rain in June and
July—to a lot of thunderstorms lately. Yesterday, the Heat index
was 116 Fahrenheit. It almost made me long for winter...almost,
but not quite. Yes, the weather is always changing—like our
moods and even our seasons in life. We wish for no
complications, smooth sailing, or for “the peace that passes
understanding”, but we don’t always have it! |
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We know that spiritual disciplines are an anchor in the storms of
life, but we would rather float on our feelings—and hope for a
tropical island to relieve the storm. Back the basics???
A spiritual thought…
“Without faith it is impossible to please God… (Hebrews 11:6)
and HE is a Rewarder of those who diligently seek Him!” The
basic’s huh? Seeking God—letting Him reward. Well, I wish that fund
raising wasn’t an “up and down” kind of thing, but it is. Sometimes,
the gifts are up and sometimes down. Sometimes, I feel I could do
more and sometimes I don’t. But, in the end I have realized that it
takes FAITH. A missionary has quite the life—a dependant
life. As any “red-blooded American” I want to work—and be rewarded.
If I put in more hours, I get more pay, etc. The world bases it’s
economy on buying and selling, working and payment. God’s
economy has always been sowing and reaping, giving and receiving.
Our world’s clash every time we see that offering plate:) What do
you mean….I receive if I give? I have struggled many times
(especially in times of great need, i.e. this summer) to give my 10
percent and beyond. However, I am getting back to the basics...and
giving more! One of the hardest spiritual disciplines is giving our
“hard-earned cash” into the kingdom of God. I encourage you to flex
your spiritual muscles and renew your own disciplines—give to your
church, the poor, and His Kingdom! All the Glory to God!
An Amazing
development…
Ukraine has dropped Visa
requirements for US Citizens! That will save me or you $200 and you
will be able to visit and do missions with me without the hassle of
getting a Visa!!!
As you know, since
January 2005, I have been “friend/fund raising” for my move to
full-time ministry in Ukraine. THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT—I
pray that Jesus blesses you more than you can ask or even think
for your faithfulness and support. Here is the financial report so
far…
Moving Expenses: around $7,500
Goal: $10,000
Monthly Support Raised: between—$1,250-$1,500
Goal: $2,000 in monthly support
Target Date to leave: October 18, 2005
Number of Churches preached at: 20
Booked Churches: 3
Exploring Churches: 4—pray they book!
Thanks for your continued prayers and support!
Much love in Christ,
Richard T. Schwendinger
pastorike@hotmail.com
Checks can be written out to Impact Ministry Int.
P.O. BOX 276 • LONSDALE, MINNESOTA 55046-0276
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Partnership”
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