Black’s Newsletter, Issue 21 December 15, 2005
Dear Friends and Family,
As I write I am thinking about a time earlier this year in May. Half packed suitcases, Rubbermaid containers and boxes littered our entire house. We were preparing for Deputation 2005.
The previous four years in the Philippines had been a rich experience for our family. God had over and over again given us of His grace. He had taught us to love our work with Bible Methodist Missions.
Many of you followed our journey to the Philippines. We continue today as before to appreciate your love, concern, prayers, financial support and communications.
To bring you up to date we have the following news flashes:
1. We have put 29,000 miles on our Mission Helps van!
2. We have sung “Jesus Saves” more than 50 times since September!
3. We are finished traveling to our Bible Methodist churches. We will miss you!
4. Robert has adjusted to life in Hobe Sound, FL and says it is starting to feel like home. That makes us happy! Thank you to each of you who have sent him gifts.
5. Our Christmas tree is up in our Pell City house! We are so excited about spending time with our extended family during the holidays.
We have grown to love our Filipino life and can’t wait to return in January. It will be so good to eat “Halo, Halo” again. It is a dessert filled with many sweet, pickled fruits and vegetables. It is served over shaved ice and topped with ice cream.
We still don’t like all the smells of the Philippines but we can handle it better than at first. We continue to have no easy tolerance for the restroom situations…makes me shiver as I write!
And here we are again…boxes and containers and suitcases litter our house again. But we are taking back with us to the Philippines, along with our stuff, a lot of great memories from Deputation 2005!
Thanks for all the hugs, words of encouragement, offerings, pledges of share support, and promises to pray for us as we return to the field next month.
Merry Christmas! We love you,
“The Blacks”
(editor's note: Check out the Black's blog by clicking here)
Thursday, December 15, 2005
Saturday, December 10, 2005
Conference President's Update for Dec. 10
Urgent Prayer Request
Sis. Mike Hobbs is very, very ill. She has been given a lot of blood but she was so low this morning that the doctor feared she might go into cardiac arrest. Please lift Bro. and Sis. Hobbs in prayer.
Rev. Daniel Hobbs, his wife Carol and their five children are traveling from Evart tonight to be with his parents. If you get this yet this evening, please pray for safety for them on the highways.
Wonderful Preachers' Christmas Supper
Thirty-two gathered at "The Shack" for a lovely Christmas dinner and fellowship. The Shack is a beautiful, large bed and breakfast facility with lovely rooms, fireside fellowship rooms, conference room, game rooms, etc. Rev. Johnson organized the event and Rev. Sumner lead the worship time.
Conference President's Schedule
Saundy and I enjoyed ministering at the Vandercook Bible Methodist Church last Sunday. A fine congregation welcomed us and I was happy to share what God is doing in my heart -- capturing me with HOPE. He is the God of Hope! The Hillings were lovely hosts for the day. We returned home late in the evening, but happy to be a part of our ministers' lives and contented to share with their people.
Friday, Saundy and the boys and I headed for GBS for their Christmas program. What a thrill! And how do you stay seated when the choir is singing "All Hail the Power of Jesus' Name"? What a celebration it was. This year baby Jesus is Phil and Dorcas Bishop's little baby, Blake. So, I even got to see a little namesake. We got to visit with Melvin and Sandy Adams who had flown in for the service. Of course there were lots of others that we missed talking to in the crowd. We hurried back home today since the guys wanted to get the snow machines running and then were off to their S.S. class Christmas party at the Bailey's.
May the God of Hope and Peace fill your hearts with Christmas. Christmas is Emmanuel -- GOD WITH US!
.
Rev. Blake Jones
-------------------------------------------------
A Sam Davis Update
If you have been following the story of Bro. Sam Davis' tragic burns and his recovery, you will be interested to read this. It was not so many days ago that they feared for his life and air-lifted him out of Mexico. He is a missionary of long standing and noteable record.
Dear Pray-ers,
An updated update!!
Nancy Davis called a short while ago with the incredible news that Brother Sam was discharged from the hospital yesterday afternoon!! He is in the camper which is still on the hospital grounds (Army Base). He will receive further treatment on an outpatient basis. I am not sure how long they will be there.
The doctors at the Burn Center (one of the top in the nation) said they never saw a case where the burns were as bad as Brother Sam's and healed so quickly. Every skin graft "took" perfectly and continues to grow. We know that God has undertaken in a wonderful way. Nancy says the doctors recognize this as an unusual case. Again, to God be the Glory!!!!
Nancy wants to thank everyone who prayed and asks us to pray now especially for the emotional healing that Brother Sam needs after this traumatic (putting it mildly!)experience.
Nancy told me of several contacts that were made while in the hospital that might be one of the reasons God allowed this to happen - and the end is not yet! There is no question that God will continue to get glory and work for the salvation of souls through the witness this family have been to people who otherwise would never have come in contact with those who really know the Lord. Pray for all these contacts, and all the outreaching, ongoing effects of this whole situation.
How great is our God! How great is His Name and His greatness is unsearchable.
One more item:
Some have asked about the burns on Sister Nancy's legs. They are healing with the help of some medication. The largest is about four inches long and two inches wide. A small portion of this is third degree, the rest is second.
God's people have been wonderfully drawn together through this suffering of members of "The Body." May we all be strengthened in the bonds of love and faith, and thereby be prepared for whatever may lie ahead for any of us. The trying of our faith is much more precious to God than of gold that perisheth. ( See I Peter 1:7)
When Nancy has the full report written, we will hope to include a copy in the Rope-Holder - probably January.
Praying that we might be able to praise Him more perfectly,
Anita Brechbill/Rope-Holders
Sis. Mike Hobbs is very, very ill. She has been given a lot of blood but she was so low this morning that the doctor feared she might go into cardiac arrest. Please lift Bro. and Sis. Hobbs in prayer.
Rev. Daniel Hobbs, his wife Carol and their five children are traveling from Evart tonight to be with his parents. If you get this yet this evening, please pray for safety for them on the highways.
Wonderful Preachers' Christmas Supper
Thirty-two gathered at "The Shack" for a lovely Christmas dinner and fellowship. The Shack is a beautiful, large bed and breakfast facility with lovely rooms, fireside fellowship rooms, conference room, game rooms, etc. Rev. Johnson organized the event and Rev. Sumner lead the worship time.
Conference President's Schedule
Saundy and I enjoyed ministering at the Vandercook Bible Methodist Church last Sunday. A fine congregation welcomed us and I was happy to share what God is doing in my heart -- capturing me with HOPE. He is the God of Hope! The Hillings were lovely hosts for the day. We returned home late in the evening, but happy to be a part of our ministers' lives and contented to share with their people.
Friday, Saundy and the boys and I headed for GBS for their Christmas program. What a thrill! And how do you stay seated when the choir is singing "All Hail the Power of Jesus' Name"? What a celebration it was. This year baby Jesus is Phil and Dorcas Bishop's little baby, Blake. So, I even got to see a little namesake. We got to visit with Melvin and Sandy Adams who had flown in for the service. Of course there were lots of others that we missed talking to in the crowd. We hurried back home today since the guys wanted to get the snow machines running and then were off to their S.S. class Christmas party at the Bailey's.
May the God of Hope and Peace fill your hearts with Christmas. Christmas is Emmanuel -- GOD WITH US!
.
Rev. Blake Jones
-------------------------------------------------
A Sam Davis Update
If you have been following the story of Bro. Sam Davis' tragic burns and his recovery, you will be interested to read this. It was not so many days ago that they feared for his life and air-lifted him out of Mexico. He is a missionary of long standing and noteable record.
Dear Pray-ers,
An updated update!!
Nancy Davis called a short while ago with the incredible news that Brother Sam was discharged from the hospital yesterday afternoon!! He is in the camper which is still on the hospital grounds (Army Base). He will receive further treatment on an outpatient basis. I am not sure how long they will be there.
The doctors at the Burn Center (one of the top in the nation) said they never saw a case where the burns were as bad as Brother Sam's and healed so quickly. Every skin graft "took" perfectly and continues to grow. We know that God has undertaken in a wonderful way. Nancy says the doctors recognize this as an unusual case. Again, to God be the Glory!!!!
Nancy wants to thank everyone who prayed and asks us to pray now especially for the emotional healing that Brother Sam needs after this traumatic (putting it mildly!)experience.
Nancy told me of several contacts that were made while in the hospital that might be one of the reasons God allowed this to happen - and the end is not yet! There is no question that God will continue to get glory and work for the salvation of souls through the witness this family have been to people who otherwise would never have come in contact with those who really know the Lord. Pray for all these contacts, and all the outreaching, ongoing effects of this whole situation.
How great is our God! How great is His Name and His greatness is unsearchable.
One more item:
Some have asked about the burns on Sister Nancy's legs. They are healing with the help of some medication. The largest is about four inches long and two inches wide. A small portion of this is third degree, the rest is second.
God's people have been wonderfully drawn together through this suffering of members of "The Body." May we all be strengthened in the bonds of love and faith, and thereby be prepared for whatever may lie ahead for any of us. The trying of our faith is much more precious to God than of gold that perisheth. ( See I Peter 1:7)
When Nancy has the full report written, we will hope to include a copy in the Rope-Holder - probably January.
Praying that we might be able to praise Him more perfectly,
Anita Brechbill/Rope-Holders
Wednesday, December 07, 2005
Friday, December 02, 2005
Special Prayer Request for Sam Davis
(editor's note: the following is from Bro. John Parker, about the physical condition of Bro. Sam Davis, a missionary in Mexico, then below is a note from Bro. Sankey)
Bro. & Sis Wickard I asked the Sankeys to travel up to San Antonio, TX on behalf of Bible Methodist Missions to express our concerns and love to Sam and Nancy Davis in this terrible time of suffering for him. Sam Davis and his wife Nancy have been missionaries to Mexico for many years. Sam was burned severely while working on a piece of equipment when some gasoline he was using ignited and caught him on fire. He had to be life-flighted out of Mexico to the burn center in San Antonio to spare his life and get the treatment he desperately needs. This cost them more than $12,000.00. Bible Methodist Missions is sending an offering to help with this great expense!
I asked Marc to give us a report of their visit! Thank You Marc for making the trip and sharing your experience with us!
John D. Parker - Bible Methodist Missions
--------------------------------------------------------
On Wed, 30 Nov 2005 22:35:44 -0600 "Marc Sankey" writes:
Melodie and I have just returned from a quick trip to San Antonio to
visit Sam and Nancy Davis at the Brook Army Medical Center. Though I have heard of Sam and Nancy Davis and in a round about way have some family connections, I had never met them. I was directed to his hospital room when I arrived and found a very gracious and kind reception there. I found out that Sam and Nancy Davis have been missionaries together in Mexico for 33 years and also found them to be precious and determined servants of the Lord.
The story is horrific and I will leave the details for them to share
with you when they believe it is fitting. Suffice it to say, Bro. Sam Davis is still with us because of the sovereign protection of a loving God. He suffered burns from his chest to his knees - most of them, Nancy told me, are 3rd degree burns. Praise welled up in my heart as Bro. Davis told me how he could not extinguish the flames by rolling on the ground or any other method and finally cried out to God in desperation to stop the flames and they immediately ceased. Someone just "happened" to stop by during this
whole ordeal and was able to direct them to the hospital. They shared with me some hair-raising stories about the emergency room/hospital there in Mexico.
Tomorrow (Thursday) he will be having the first of several skin grafts. I do not know exactly what time or how long this surgery will last but I know the Davises will appreciate your prayers tomorrow (12-1-05) especially as the healing process begins to take place. Bro. and Sis. Davis have already been through so much in recent days. Bro. Sam shared with me that in all of his life, even though he has experienced broken bones, car accidents, a plane crash, back surgeries, etc. the pain he endured with this incident was on a totally different scale from anything he has previously experienced.
Melodie and I shared a small financial gift and a get well card with
them. I am sure that anything that you send to them will be not only
greatly appreciated but desperately needed as the bills begin to mount. After having prayer with the Davises, I left the hospital room with new friends and renewed confidence in the healing power and miraculous grace of our Lord.
Blessings,
Marc Sankey
Bro. & Sis Wickard I asked the Sankeys to travel up to San Antonio, TX on behalf of Bible Methodist Missions to express our concerns and love to Sam and Nancy Davis in this terrible time of suffering for him. Sam Davis and his wife Nancy have been missionaries to Mexico for many years. Sam was burned severely while working on a piece of equipment when some gasoline he was using ignited and caught him on fire. He had to be life-flighted out of Mexico to the burn center in San Antonio to spare his life and get the treatment he desperately needs. This cost them more than $12,000.00. Bible Methodist Missions is sending an offering to help with this great expense!
I asked Marc to give us a report of their visit! Thank You Marc for making the trip and sharing your experience with us!
John D. Parker - Bible Methodist Missions
--------------------------------------------------------
On Wed, 30 Nov 2005 22:35:44 -0600 "Marc Sankey"
Melodie and I have just returned from a quick trip to San Antonio to
visit Sam and Nancy Davis at the Brook Army Medical Center. Though I have heard of Sam and Nancy Davis and in a round about way have some family connections, I had never met them. I was directed to his hospital room when I arrived and found a very gracious and kind reception there. I found out that Sam and Nancy Davis have been missionaries together in Mexico for 33 years and also found them to be precious and determined servants of the Lord.
The story is horrific and I will leave the details for them to share
with you when they believe it is fitting. Suffice it to say, Bro. Sam Davis is still with us because of the sovereign protection of a loving God. He suffered burns from his chest to his knees - most of them, Nancy told me, are 3rd degree burns. Praise welled up in my heart as Bro. Davis told me how he could not extinguish the flames by rolling on the ground or any other method and finally cried out to God in desperation to stop the flames and they immediately ceased. Someone just "happened" to stop by during this
whole ordeal and was able to direct them to the hospital. They shared with me some hair-raising stories about the emergency room/hospital there in Mexico.
Tomorrow (Thursday) he will be having the first of several skin grafts. I do not know exactly what time or how long this surgery will last but I know the Davises will appreciate your prayers tomorrow (12-1-05) especially as the healing process begins to take place. Bro. and Sis. Davis have already been through so much in recent days. Bro. Sam shared with me that in all of his life, even though he has experienced broken bones, car accidents, a plane crash, back surgeries, etc. the pain he endured with this incident was on a totally different scale from anything he has previously experienced.
Melodie and I shared a small financial gift and a get well card with
them. I am sure that anything that you send to them will be not only
greatly appreciated but desperately needed as the bills begin to mount. After having prayer with the Davises, I left the hospital room with new friends and renewed confidence in the healing power and miraculous grace of our Lord.
Blessings,
Marc Sankey
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