PAST, PRESENT, FUTURE
Oh God our help in ages past
Our hope for years to come
Our shelter from the stormy blast
And our eternal home
Oh God Our Help in Ages Past
Isaac Watts—1674-1748
These rich words, penned from one who died exactly two hundred years before I was born, give comfort, confidence and clarity.
At this time of year I always am reflective, not only of the past twelve months, but also the years that have come and gone so swiftly. I rejoice in God’s faithfulness to keep me unto Himself, and to use this ministry to touch so many lives, often I’m sure, in spite of myself.
We look back over forty-four years of ministry and gain comfort knowing God has guided, provided and kept us from, in and through many a “stormy blast.” As a result, we are confident that we stand today on a foundation, the integrity of which is sure, having as its substance the truth of God’s word.
Therefore, we gain clarity to look ahead, albeit through the eyes of faith, with a sense of hope “for the years to come” and ultimately to the final destination of “our eternal home.”
“Thank you” is not adequate to express to you our deep gratitude for your love and friendship through the years. This ministry is truly a partnership based on a common desire to love God, present the truth of His word, reach the lost and equip the saints.
Recently as I was studying Ephesians I read once again Paul’s charge to the saints in Ephesus:
“I therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, entreat you to walk in a manner worthy of the calling with which you have been called, with all humility and gentleness, with patience, showing forbearance to one another in love, being diligent to preserve the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace” (Eph. 4:1-3).
If there were a motto to describe the essence of this ministry I think it would be difficult to find a more desirable standard to strive for than that which is presented in this verse.
It is my sincere hope and prayer that this has, does and always will describe who we are, partnered together in this ministry as we seek through every opportunity given, to represent Jesus.
Looking ahead, we will continue to minister in churches across this country as God gives opportunity. I love the fact that He has opened the doors to so many different denominations and we have true fellowship with our brothers and sisters from so many varied backgrounds.
We have recently had the privilege to minister in some retirement communities and at senior banquets hosted by church senior ministries departments. As my wife and I are now bona fide senior citizens, we have great appreciation for the “senior saints” and look forward to more opportunities to target this demographic.
We also are developing what we’re calling the In-Holm concert series. These will be a few selected dates where Linda and I will do a very intimate concert/ministry event at someone’s home. This will enable some to host perhaps an elegant dinner or a backyard barbecue, inviting friends and neighbors who may not go to church, into a warm friendly atmosphere to hear the “good news” in song and word.
Please pray with us about these opportunities as they develop further.
I’ve never cared so much what our ministry looks like or where it takes us as long as we can be effective.
Let us pray for one another that His will shall be accomplished in every aspect of our lives. May the faithfulness of God shine through always—Past, Present and Future!
Under the shadow of Thy throne
Thy saints have dwelt secure
Sufficient is Thine arm alone
And our defense is sure
Oh God Our Help in Ages Past
Isaac Watts
P.S. I always like to remind our friends and partners at this time of year to please remember us in your year-end giving. This has been perhaps our most challenging year ever financially. Prayerfully consider what you might be able to do to send us out into the New Year unencumbered by financial concerns. Thank you so much and may God richly bless you and provide for all your needs according to the riches in Christ Jesus our Lord.
