FAC Family News: March

Heart to Heart

It seems like we arrived at March Madness a little early this year. In the span of just 7 days, we’ve shifted from daily snow squalls with feet of snow, plus frigid -40 windchill temps, to mild spring weather with highs in the 50s and breezy conditions. Soon, all that snow and bitter winter weather will be a distant memory (we hope...).

Of course, March is well known for a different kind of March Madness. College basketball teams are playing hard to qualify for the NCAA tournament that caps the season. The First Four matches will be in Dayton, Ohio, on March 18-19. Next come the first- and second-round games (March 20-23) followed by the Sweet 16 weekend on March 27-30. Auburn has been ranked as a favorite to win this year, but in typical March Madness fashion, none of the winning teams from the First Four the last two years, were basketball powerhouses. It will be fun to see how it all plays out.

While I enjoy watching a good basketball game (especially if someone I know is playing), I find myself reflecting looking at the craziness of our recent March weather from another perspective. “In like a lamb & out like a lion” the saying goes. If you follow the Farmer’s Almanac weather predictions, then there’s more crazy weather on the way in mid March. No doubt, some will be quoting the “lion & the lamb” adage. But it does seem fitting, as we move from March to Easter on April 20th.

In the Scriptures, the “Lion and the Lamb” are two titles that Jesus carries as He fulfills His calling to be the Savior of mankind. When the Son of God pitched His tent amongst us (John 1:14), He came as heaven’s chosen Lamb. John the Baptist challenged his followers to “behold, the Lamb of God who takes away the sins of the world.” – pointing to Jesus (John 1:29).

The “Lamb of God,” brings to mind the substitute God made for Isaac in Genesis 22. Abraham had been commanded to go to a mountain God would show him, and offer up his one and only son as a sacrifice to YHWH. But at the last instant, Isaac was spared, and the blood of a substitute sacrifice was shed in his place. This pictures the crazy love that is the heart of the Gospel as Jesus came to be our Substitute, dying our death, so that we might be given eternal life.

One of this year’s March Madness events will be a gathering of people in many churches across the nation on March 5th, to receive a smudge mark of ash on their forehead, to commemorate Ash Wednesday. This marks the start of Lent, when people give something up in order to focus more intentionally on what Jesus did for us on the Cross.

But Jesus’ story doesn’t end with His death on that Friday. When all hope seemed lost, and He had been dead & buried for three days, Christ rose victoriously from the grave. Forty days later, the triumphant Risen Christ ascended into heaven, to take His rightful place next to the heavenly Father. He now rules from heaven’s throne, until the promised Day when He will return to gather His people to Himself.

While Jesus still bears the marks of the Cross on His resurrected body, the Day is soon coming when He will return with power and great majesty, to establish His forever kingdom. On that Day, Jesus will appear as the Lion of Judah and time as we know it, will suddenly come to an end.

March weather madness is nothing compared to what happens when the Lion returns to the earth. The cosmos will shake, the sun & moon will go dark, stars will fall from the sky (Matthew 24:29). Then the sign of the Son of Man will be revealed, and all the peoples of the earth will mourn as the Lion of Judah appears (24:30). On that Day, Jesus will separate the sheep from the goats, and all humanity will be sent to their eternal destination. Do you long to hear the words “well done, good and faithful servant?”

Does life seem wild and unpredictable right now? You can know His peace, and be sure of your eternal future, as you place your trust in Him. Put your faith in the only One who saves – the Lord Jesus Christ. Then another saying will prove true - we are indeed “safe in the arms of Jesus.”

Pastor Adriaan & Diana <><

Onward, upward, to greater glory (Phil.3:14) - EXCELSIOR

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FAC Family News: February

Heart to Heart

LOVE is literally the heart of the Gospel. It was God’s great love that led to Jesus being sent on the mission to save fallen humanity. “For God so loved the broken, rebellious world that He gave His one & only Son...” (J.3:16). That steadfast “hesed” covenant love is all-encompassing and worth more than life itself – God’s love never fails, never runs out. Christ is the embodiment of that love (Romans 5:8), and He invites you & I as His disciples to follow in His footsteps.

This is the one debt that never goes away (Romans 12:9). We’re called to “love our neighbors”, no matter who they are or what the price. Only that kind of love, will fulfill God’s commandments. A love that does no wrong to one’s fellow human beings. Easier said, than done though. Right?

During our recent trip to Senegal, six of us experienced slices of this deep, relentless love in real time. We didn’t have to speak Pulaar or Wolof to give voice to God’s agape love. We simply needed to let Christ’s love flow through us, into the lives of those people we met & spent time with.

Our hearts were melted by the help & hope were extended to those who had almost nothing to lean on. This is a picture of nurse Mary, with Awa. I love the joy on their faces. Mary was nursing Awa back to health after part of her leg had to be amputated due to a botched surgery in another place. Seeing Awa (Eve) responding to Jesus’ love flowing thru Mary, made a an unforgettable impact in my heart.

I’m thinking of a village we visited, where we were introduced to a man who had lost his wife, leaving him alone to raise his young children. Pape Diop celebrated how God answered the prayers of previous Envision team that had prayed for him to find a new wife. A short time later, he found a woman in another village up north, who was willing to leave her own people, in order to be his wife, and become a mother to his children. Pape Diob rejoiced at how his dire need had been met so quickly.

When Seby took us to visit this village, we saw how the other men had used “Farming God’s Way” principles to turn desert into productive gardens. Recently Pape Diop was gifted with a piece of desert land from a village leader. He was super excited when Seby told him that our team would be providing the funds to drill a well and purchase the water pump that is needed to irrigate his desert land and turn it into productive farmland to feed his family. Tears of joy fills his eyes. We look forward to seeing streams of living water touching Pape Diob’s heart, as we partner with Seby, him in agriculture project.

I remember us sitting in a living room and listened to a young couple describe their ministry to street boys (Talibe). They dream of a ministry center where the boys can learn a life skill, while discovering what the Bible says about Jesus. But they’re not waiting for that dream to become reality. Basse & Soda (who recently lost a child of their own), have opened their hearts and home to 4 Talibe boys to come and live with them. They actively seek other Talibe boys in their city, and seek to reunite them to their families. That act of love is opening hearts and lives to hear about Jesus.

There are so many more stories from our time in Senegal that could be told. But what about the neighbor love stories being written by God, right here & right now in Billings, MT, through His people?

Thanks to those who loved on a family in Billings that none of us knew. But they were in deep need with a major family health crisis and you extended Christ’s love to them. Thanks to those that have gone the extra mile with the homeless and those just passing thru Billings (heading south for a warmer place to stay in the winter). I’m grateful for the love shown to shut-ins and the sick. I celebrate being part of a church that loves like Jesus. May we all keep leaning in, keep loving, and not grow weary of doing good!

I can’t think of a better Valentine’s gift than to love the people around us with deep compassion and a trust in Jesus that humbly prays for God to water & nurture the Gospel seeds, causing new life to spring up. Hey, it’s winter out there today, but the promise of new life is just around the corner.

Pastor Adriaan & Diana <><

Onward, upward, to greater glory (Phil.3:14) - EXCELSIOR

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FAC Family News: January

Heart to Heart

It’s New Year’s Eve day, and everyone is gearing up to bring in 2025. Businesses are closing early, people are grabbing a few last-minute items, and both hearts & minds are looking to the future. We all start 2025 with a blank sheet, and yet expectation. God knows what He wants to do in the coming year. What we can be certain of, is that He has plans that are already in motion. The only question will be if we join Him, in what He’s up to.

As a church, I believe God is inviting us to take Him at His Word. In Isaiah 43:19, after having assured His people of His great love (I’ve redeemed you) and that He will see us through whatever troubles and challenges come our way, the LORD says “Behold (look hard, see with your eyes of faith), I am doing a new thing. Do you not perceive it?” Think back to the last year, and how many new expressions of God’s mercy & grace we experienced as life unfolded. Is there any doubt that He’s up to something new in 2025?

The LORD declares “I am making a way in the wilderness, and streams in the desert.” That “way” is found in Jesus Christ (John 14:6). Our first priority is to know Him more & more, and to follow all that He has taught us. That’s what it means to be a Christ follower. Flowing water in a parched desert, speaks of the empowering of the Holy Spirit, from whom streams of abundance flow. In the south, they long to see the monsoon rains, that help to bring new life to the desert. How might God by His Spirit be working in new ways this coming year, to send refreshing showers of His Spirit to our hearts, in order to cause new growth in the lives of His people & Church?

What is God stirring within you, as you look to Him and anticipate 2025?

This year, I’ve been drawn to the word “Excelsior” and how it’s meaning will help shape my life focus. Stan Lee, the Marvel comics publisher who left behind the iconic comic heroes like Spider-Man, Iron Man and the Fantastic Four, often signed off with the word “Excelsior.” In 2010, he tweeted that the word meant “upward and onward to greater glory.” That was Lee’s wish for his readers.

I share my personal goal, with the wish that you might make it yours. I’m pursuing “Excelsior 3:14” to gain greater glory in 2025. But that glory has nothing to do with comic superheroes or personal accolades. Version 3:14 points me to what the apostle Paul declares in Philippians, chapter 3 – “I press on toward the goal to win the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.” v.14. I want to grow deeper in the grace & knowledge of Jesus. More of Him and less of me. I’m determined to keep running my race, onward & upward, to reach the greater glory of reaching heaven’s gates and spending eternity with Jesus.

That’s my wish for each of you, in our beloved FAC family. May your 2025 lead upward and onward, to the greater praise & glory of God, as together we embrace the new things He is doing, and individually serve our neighbors & community, out of the Spirit’s fulness.

<>< Excelsior 3:14, Adriaan & Diana

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FAC Family News: December

Heart to Heart

Family Christmas photo – check

Christmas cards ordered – check

Christmas newsletter – in the works

Christmas baking – good news: there’s a baking exchange on the 14th

Christmas tree up & decorated – check

Outdoor Christmas tree lights hung – check

Christmas gifts for loved ones – still need to be wrapped

RSVP for the FAC Christmas Banquet – by Dec 6th

Planning to go to the High Mileage Christmas Party

Preschool Christmas concert – happening on Friday…

My list may not look the same as yours, but I guarantee it’s got a lot in common. The calendar is maxed out, the budget is feeling the strain, and between Black Friday sales & Cyber Monday deals (not to mention Giving Tuesday – see below), it’s hard to keep focused on what matters most.

One person suggested that we exchange “presents” for the precious gift of “presence.” Wrap your arms around someone who’s feeling blue or lonely vs wrapping something to go under the tree. Let the joy of the LORD overflow from your heart, into the lives of those feeling discouraged and desperate. Give away generous amounts of Christmas cheer and bless the overworked retail employees with kind words of gratitude. Think of how rich Christmas becomes, when we make it about giving ourselves away in service to others vs “what’s in it for me?”

I love Advent because everywhere you go, they’re singing our song – classic Christmas carols that celebrate the Savior’s birth. Without Jesus, there is no reason for the season; hope deflates like a cheap balloon. But here’s the good news: God’s patient, steadfast love for this fallen, broken world dealt us cards of “mercy & grace” rather than “judgment & wrath.” His kindness and patience lead to repentance (a change of mind), followed by a changed heart and a change of direction (Romans 2:4). Jesus came so that we might have the opportunity to embrace this life change.

May your Christmas list include time for heartfelt celebration & gratitude to the One who left heaven to pitch His tent amongst us (John 1:14). Gaze at Christ’s glory and give Him the praise and obedience that belongs to Him alone.

Joyfully celebrating our Wonderful Savior, Jesus Christ,

Adriaan & Diana - Merry Christmas from our family to yours

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FAC Family News: November

Heart to Heart

Last night, FAC once again hosted the Party @ The Patch (aka the Harvest Party), and we were grateful that so many community people chose to stop by. All told, we had at least 160 guests, who were served by a team of 37 people from the FAC family. Thanks to all who lived out our “SERVE” core value with excellence – you did a great job of serving others sacrificially, in Jesus’ name!!

As Diana and I looked back at the evening, we realized that it marked the end of 8 years of ministry at First Alliance for us. We officially started at FAC on Nov.1st , 2016, but chose to jump into the Party celebrations on Oct.31st. What an amazing journey it’s been over these past 8 years.

Of course, a lot has changed in that time. We are definitely a little older and grayer. Doing a complete makeover of the facility over an 8-year stretch will do that to you. Praise God for His generous provision which has allowed us to remain debt free. In the meantime, ministry challenges have been overcome, lives have been transformed, and we continue to make sweet memories, serving Jesus together with you.

Over the years we have seen many people come and go as the LORD led. Some of our closest friends now live in Arizona & North Carolina (both warm places to visit in the winter months)! Just this week, we said a fond farewell to Tom & Cindy Seroogy, as they moved to Missouri. But we also give thanks as God has faithfully added many new people to FAC. Our hearts are full, as we’ve built more new friendships while continuing to invest in the people we’ve known for many years.

We want to say how grateful we are as a couple, for the many expressions of love from our FAC family during Pastor Appreciation month. Thanks Tim, for representing the Board and FAC family so well, as you honored both the pastoral staff, and our intern - Aiden. All of us are grateful to be teamed together with all of you, taking the Gospel to our community and to the ends of the earth.

In 1 Thessalonians 5:16-17, Paul urges us to “rejoice always, pray constantly, and give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for us in Christ Jesus”. I am continuing to lean into that instruction and am learning how to make gratitude a priority every day, as I catch sight of God’s kindness and grace in action. May each of us commit to this discipline in a deeper way, as we anticipate Thanksgiving and then the celebration of Christ’s birth during the Advent season.

Joyfully serving with you - Adriaan & Diana ><>

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FAC Family News: October

Heart to Heart

Fall is officially here, and the proof is seen in the changing colors of the leaves, the cooler mornings, the potential for our first frost as we move into October, and perhaps even a few snowflakes. From a ministry perspective, this month marks the time when different ministry efforts step it up several notches, as we seek to come alongside people, offering HELP and HOPE.

Pastor Phil & I leave today, for the Rocky Mtn District IGNITE Conference in Bozeman this week. It is a time to recharge the batteries and connect with colleagues in ministry, as we anticipate the heavy push that come from now until the end of December. Pray for us, as we lean into this time.

On October 8th, Diana and I will be jumping on a plane and heading to Thailand, where we will be gathering with other CAMA people and celebrating 50 years of God’s goodness and compassion being shared with the most needy in our world. One of the anticipated highlights of this time away for Diana and I, is getting to meet face-to-face with IWs that we have prayed for and supported for decades. We will have opportunity to listen to CAMA worker’s stories, to pray with them and to encourage them as we look to the future. Providentially, we will be able to celebrate a dear couple’s soon retirement from overseas ministry. This couple has stood by us in ministry for more than 30 years.

Another bonus from doing this whirlwind trip to Thailand, is the opportunity to sit with African CAMA staff, and talk thru the upcoming FAC short term mission team’s trip to Senegal in January 2025. We will fine tune the details and work thru what activities we can engage in, that best supports the vision of the IWs on the field. So pray for us, as we travel thousands of miles and likely miss out on some sleep, so that we can bless and encourage our international workers.

Once we arrive back home, it’s only a couple weeks before FAC hosts the Party @ The Patch on Oct.31st. We anticipate that we could see even more people from the community join us, after they enjoyed the BLOCK PARTY back in September. Will you partner with us serve at this major outreach event? You can sign up on the table in the Lobby. OF course, we also need donated CANDY, so that we can fill treat bags for the children. Thanks in advance, for helping us love on our neighbors, in Jesus’ name.

It's a privilege to serve next to you, and to represent our FAC family in different places within our District and our world. Pray for strength & stamina, as we continue to invest heavily for the sake of the Kingdom.

Praying FIRST,

Pastor Adriaan & Diana ><>

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FAC Family News: September

Heart to Heart

The Halloween decorations and candy bags on the end caps in mid-August should have been the first clue. If that didn’t trigger our memory, then the Welcome Back signs and aisles of school supplies on sale should have provided fair warning. Summer is virtually over, and the Fall is racing toward us like a turbo-charged car rocketing around the Big Sky Speedway racetrack.

I’m not sure how things are looking in your world, but I’ve been planning for Fall activities for months now. We all get to jump into the Labor Day weekend, and then first thing Tuesday morning, the new school year starts. That means some major adjustments as everyone resets to the Fall schedule.

Let me share how the Fall is shaping up at FAC. We start with seven consecutive days of prayer, at our PRAY FIRST gathering from September 3rd thru the 9th. Every night (except for Sept 8th), we will meet in the FAC sanctuary for a time of praise and prayer together. Each night will feature a different focus. There will be a mixture of both corporate prayer, and personal prayer. We want to intentionally increase the measure of prayer at FAC.

On September 4th, some people from FAC will join others from 20+ churches in Billings, to invite guests to the Joe Gibbs outreach breakfast at the Metra. Pray with us, that we will fill all five tables with those who are seeking to know God in a personal way. We are also hosting another Discover Class @ FAC on Sunday the 8th, with a free lunch for those interested in learning more about who we are as a church, and how to get plugged in to FAC.

A week later, FAC will host a free Welcome Back BLOCK PARTY @ Gorham Park (4pm-6:30pm). We’re inviting our neighbors and the parents & children from Central Heights Elementary School to join us for free food, family-friendly games, door prizes, family photos, and much, much more. We’re still looking for volunteers to man booths, and offer a smile and warm welcome to our neighbors (contact the church office if you can help).

Pray with us that some of our guests will decide to check out First Alliance as a church. Our Explorers children’s ministry and Unashamed Youth group will kick off their Fall ministries as part of this event. We look forward to seeing our FAC family, interact with our guests, and love on them, in Jesus’ name.

The Adult Bible Class resumes on Sunday, September 15th @ 9am in the downstairs Youth Room, as we continue our study of 1 & 2 Thessalonians. The adult LIFE groups also resume that week, as we move into our Fall ministry schedule.

At the end of the month (Sept.27-29), we will be hosting Cassanda, an Alliance IW from SE Asia (and also part of our Rocky Mtn District family). Activities will include a Family Gym Night on Friday, a Women’s Ministry event on Saturday afternoon, and Cassandra sharing in the Sept. 29th worship service, followed by an all-church Potluck Lunch and interaction time. Come prepared to hear how God is working to light up SE Asia with the light of His Gospel.

Are you tired yet? Just thinking about everything packed into September makes me tired. But I’m also energized, anticipating God working in and through us as a church family.

May the manifest presence of the Holy Spirit, be evident as we lift up Jesus Christ as Lord and look to our heavenly Father for the mercy & grace as we journey through life in this broken world. Grateful for the eternal hope that is ours, in Christ.

Standing with you in earnest prayer,

Pastor Adriaan & Diana ><>

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FAC Family News: August

Heart to Heart

Diana and I were in the airport at Minneapolis when we heard the news. Mother’s Day weekend had been filled with laughter, a special time of worship alongside our daughter Becky at her North Carolina church (next to David & Connie Hunter who go to the same church). We were waiting for a delayed flight to arrive, so we could make the final leg home.

I called Stephen to let him know he would likely have to pick us up in the early morning hours from Logan International Airport. He let me know I was on speaker phone, and Celina asked if we would like to hear some good news. Absolutely, lay it on us... “WE’RE ENGAGED!”

There were shouts of joy in that airport lounge! Diana and I felt so blessed, and rejoiced at God’s goodness to our family. Just hearing the news, helped us to handle the long delay and lack of sleep so much better. Since then, it’s been a whirlwind of learning about wedding plans, and figuring out our part in it.

You would think after doing several weddings in our family, along with many other weddings I’ve been involved with over 36 years of ministry, that I wouldn’t be surprised by the impact of such news. Having an imminent wedding on the horizon greatly increases your focus. We are really tuned into wedding details now, and other plans have taken a back seat to the wedding plans. Adjustments are being made, and new plans set in motion, to make this a fantastic wedding for Stephen & Celina. Everything passes through the “wedding filter.”

May 19th marked 50 days since Easter’s celebration of Christ’s resurrection from the grave. Jesus took the first 40 days after His triumph over death, to instruct His disciples on the coming Kingdom of God (Acts 1:3). He then told His followers to remain in Jerusalem, waiting for “the gift my Father promised” (v.4). In response, the disciples prayed daily, waiting for God to send the promised Holy Spirit (v.5). Ten days later, on Pentecost, the Spirit came with fire and empowered Christ’s disciples to be His witnesses to the nations.

When Jesus ascended into heaven after 40 days, the angels asked Christ’s disciples why they were staring up into the sky (v.11). “This same Jesus, who has been taken from you into heaven, will come back in the same way you have seen him go into heaven.” Christ’s return or the 2nd Coming, will be the Wedding Day when the Bridegroom (Jesus) comes for His Bride (the Church). In the meantime, we watch, we pray, and we do the work that God has called us to do.

Everything in life is to be filtered through “the Wedding” filter. We know that the Wedding Day is nearer now than when we first believed. We understand that we can hasten that Day (Matt.24:14 & 2 Peter 3:12), by investing heavily in taking the Gospel to the last of the unreached. That’s why we urge people to give sacrificially to the Great Commission Fund, on June 2nd (with matching funds available up to $550,000). In the meantime, we’re to live “holy and godly lives” (2 Peter 3:11) thru the power of the indwelling Holy Spirit, bearing witness to the world about Jesus Christ, our Savior & Coming King.

Have you put your priorities and plans thru the Wedding filter? Are you doing your part to bring it closer? Will Jesus find you faithful when He returns, doing life in the power of His Spirit, and telling others about Him?

As we move into the summer months, may we anticipate Christ’s soon return and Wedding Day, doing everything in our power to reach the unreached. Maranatha! Come Lord Jesus!!

Pastor Adriaan & Diana <><

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FAC Family News: June

Heart to Heart

Diana and I were in the airport at Minneapolis when we heard the news. Mother’s Day weekend had been filled with laughter, a special time of worship alongside our daughter Becky at her North Carolina church (next to David & Connie Hunter who go to the same church). We were waiting for a delayed flight to arrive, so we could make the final leg home.

I called Stephen to let him know he would likely have to pick us up in the early morning hours from Logan International Airport. He let me know I was on speaker phone, and Celina asked if we would like to hear some good news. Absolutely, lay it on us... “WE’RE ENGAGED!”

There were shouts of joy in that airport lounge! Diana and I felt so blessed, and rejoiced at God’s goodness to our family. Just hearing the news, helped us to handle the long delay and lack of sleep so much better. Since then, it’s been a whirlwind of learning about wedding plans, and figuring out our part in it.

You would think after doing several weddings in our family, along with many other weddings I’ve been involved with over 36 years of ministry, that I wouldn’t be surprised by the impact of such news. Having an imminent wedding on the horizon greatly increases your focus. We are really tuned into wedding details now, and other plans have taken a back seat to the wedding plans. Adjustments are being made, and new plans set in motion, to make this a fantastic wedding for Stephen & Celina. Everything passes through the “wedding filter.”

May 19th marked 50 days since Easter’s celebration of Christ’s resurrection from the grave. Jesus took the first 40 days after His triumph over death, to instruct His disciples on the coming Kingdom of God (Acts 1:3). He then told His followers to remain in Jerusalem, waiting for “the gift my Father promised” (v.4). In response, the disciples prayed daily, waiting for God to send the promised Holy Spirit (v.5). Ten days later, on Pentecost, the Spirit came with fire and empowered Christ’s disciples to be His witnesses to the nations.

When Jesus ascended into heaven after 40 days, the angels asked Christ’s disciples why they were staring up into the sky (v.11). “This same Jesus, who has been taken from you into heaven, will come back in the same way you have seen him go into heaven.” Christ’s return or the 2nd Coming, will be the Wedding Day when the Bridegroom (Jesus) comes for His Bride (the Church). In the meantime, we watch, we pray, and we do the work that God has called us to do.

Everything in life is to be filtered through “the Wedding” filter. We know that the Wedding Day is nearer now than when we first believed. We understand that we can hasten that Day (Matt.24:14 & 2 Peter 3:12), by investing heavily in taking the Gospel to the last of the unreached. That’s why we urge people to give sacrificially to the Great Commission Fund, on June 2nd (with matching funds available up to $550,000). In the meantime, we’re to live “holy and godly lives” (2 Peter 3:11) thru the power of the indwelling Holy Spirit, bearing witness to the world about Jesus Christ, our Savior & Coming King.

Have you put your priorities and plans thru the Wedding filter? Are you doing your part to bring it closer? Will Jesus find you faithful when He returns, doing life in the power of His Spirit, and telling others about Him?

As we move into the summer months, may we anticipate Christ’s soon return and Wedding Day, doing everything in our power to reach the unreached. Maranatha! Come Lord Jesus!!

Pastor Adriaan & Diana <><

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FAC Family News: May

Heart to Heart

May has four significant celebrations embedded in it this year. If you have Mexican roots, then you’re already anticipating Cinco de Mayo (May 5th) when the Mexican people remember a historic victory over a French army, with parades, folk music and dancing. On the 12th, our country will celebrate all those who are moms and grandmothers, for their priceless investment in our families. While there is great joy associated with Mother’s Day, it can also a very painful day for those who’ve suffered at the hands of their mothers. Others who longed to become moms, but couldn’t, wrestle with their lost dream. Mother’s Day is a mixed bag of conflicted emotions in the midst of bouquets & the flowery words.

On May 27th, America will remember her men and women who’ve paid the ultimate price to protect our freedoms. Memorial Day weekend will be filled with festivities, picnics and BBQs, along with ceremonies honoring those who sacrificed their lives to defend our rights, preserving the pledge to provide liberty and justice for all.

But tucked in the middle of May (the 19th to be exact), is a day that only appears on church calendars. Pentecost Sunday marks 50 days after the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the grave. According to Acts 1, during the first forty days, the Risen Christ appeared to His disciples at different times and places, offering them convincing proof that He had indeed risen from the dead.

Ten days before Pentecost, Jesus gave His followers some final instructions, urging them to wait for power from God to be poured out upon them Then He ascended into heaven (Acts 1:9). For days, they cried out to God, “asking, seeking and knocking” through persistent prayer, for God to do all He had promised. On Pentecost (the Jewish harvest festival), the Holy Spirit was suddenly poured out upon the disciples. The manifest presence of God was experienced as Jesus’ Church came to life.

The church does a great job remembering the Risen Christ at Easter, but we often fail to recognize the importance of Christ’s ascension. Jesus had to go, so that the Holy Spirit could come (John 16:7). It is only through the empowering of the Holy Spirit, that our Gospel witness becomes effective. We need the power of the Spirit, to finish the Great Commission.

As we anticipate Pentecost Sunday, may we pray earnestly for a further infilling of the Spirit, to empower us to do our part in taking Jesus to a lost and dying world.

Pastor Adriaan & Diana <><

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FAC Family News: April

Heart to Heart

Forty is a significant number; especially if you’re in your late thirties. It marks “mid-life” and is a wake-up call to “count the number of our days,” so that we live them to the full. In the Scriptures, forty is often associated with significant events in the life of God’s people.

When the LORD determined to flood the earth in judgment for mankind’s sinfulness, He caused it to rain for forty days and nights. At day 40, Noah opened a window in the ark and sent out a raven, to determine if the water had begun to recede. At age 40, Isaac was married to Rebekah. When Moses went up on Mount Sinai to receive God’s Law, he was there for 40 days and nights, without food or water – sustained by the LORD.

When Moses sent spies to explore the Promised Land, they took 40 days to gather information. When the majority yielded to unbelief because of the giants they found in the land, the LORD determined they would wander in the wilderness 1 year for each of those 40 days. But He also provided for His people in the wilderness, supplying manna (bread from heaven) and supernaturally protecting their clothing so that it did not wear out during those 40 years. Fast forward to the New Testament. Immediately after being baptized by John in the River Jordan (and filled with the Spirit), Jesus’ spent 40 days in the wilderness being tempted by Satan. Those days helped to form his initiation into full-time ministry.

Fast forward again, to the end of Jesus’ life and earthly ministry. Christ died on the Friday, just before the Sabbath began– after celebrating the Passover with His disciples the night before. He victoriously arose from the grave, first thing Sunday morning. The Risen Christ then appeared to His disciples throughout Resurrection Sunday – to Mary Magdelene in the garden, to Peter, and to the two disciples walking along the Emmaus road. He then appeared to the Eleven (minus Thomas), as they met secretly behind closed doors that Sunday night.

The Gospel’s careful recording of Jesus resurrection appearances, are vital to our faith. If Christ did not rise from the dead, Paul says, then we are still dead in our sins; our faith is useless and so is my preaching. More than that, we’re guilty of lying, if God did not raise Christ from the grave. And those who have died “in Christ” are eternally lost – if Jesus is still dead and buried (1 Corinthians 15:14-19).

But Christ has indeed been resurrected back to life. He lives! Starting on Resurrection Sunday and for the next 40 days, Jesus appeared to His apostles in various circumstances (Acts 1:3). His purpose was to give them irrefutable proof that He had triumphed over death. In 1 Corinthians 15, Paul testifies that the Risen Christ appeared to the Twelve in the Upper Room (not once, but twice) and to five hundred people at one time. Later, Jesus personally confronted Paul on the road to Damascus. Forty days of compelling hands-on experiences in which they saw, heard and touched the Risen Savior –forging within them rock-solid faith & fortitude, to faithfully bear witness to a hostile world that Christ is risen.

Friends, it would be easy to step off the mountaintop we call Easter, and return to “life as normal.” But the Bible challenges us. The Risen Christ invites you and I to not only join Him in His death, burial and resurrection, but to boldly pray for the fullness of His Spirit, so that we might be fearless witnesses to our Lord & Savior, Jesus Christ.

Would you join me, in asking God to grant us Holy Spirit boldness in testifying to Jesus? Ask God for divine appointments in people’s lives where we can introduce them to Jesus. In these next 40 days, may we work and pray for a spiritual harvest... “This is to my Father’s glory, that you bear much fruit, showing yourselves to be my disciples.” (John 15:8).

Praying with you Pastor Adriaan & Diana <><

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FAC Family News: March

Heart to Heart

Old Man Winter sent us a little reminder this week, that he isn’t finished yet. But the snow, icy roads and cold can’t cancel the warmth and new life of Spring, that’s just around the corner.

In the same way, death could not hold Christ in the grave, because the resurrection power of God was at work. I’m so grateful there is a season called Easter, when we are reminded that we serve a God, who can bring forth life from death, just like Winter must give way to Spring.

We have been exploring God’s glorious Gospel, of how it’s possible for sinners like us to be made fully acceptable to God. As the apostle Paul reminds us in Romans 1:16, gaining a right standing before God is not about our religious efforts or based on how spiritual we are. The truth is we have nothing to offer Him, beyond our brokenness and spiritual bankruptcy. That reality cements why we all desperately need a Savior.

Here’s the best news ever to a broken, sinful world: God does not want to hold our sins against us. Out of a deep heart of loving compassion, He chose to put in motion a rescue plan that involves His Son and a “righteousness from heaven.” Paul sums up this Gospel in Romans 4:25, where he declares that Jesus was “handed over for our sins, and raised up for our justification.” It’s all about the Cross and the Empty Tomb.

The weeks leading up to Easter are known as the season of Lent. This is a time for laying down things that distract us or keep us from fixing our eyes on Jesus. As we reflect on what Christ did for us, and see how He suffered for us on the Cross, our hearts and souls are more fully prepared to celebrate “Christ crucified” and the glorious news that we can experience “Christ in you, the hope of glory.”

Our hope is not based on the story of a good man who sadly died, but on a Savior who voluntarily took our place and willingly died the death we deserve. As if that wasn’t enough, He then arose from the grave thru the power of the Spirit, triumphing over death on the 3rd day, just as He promised.

We believe that God sent Jesus to save us and that He brought Christ back to life, proving beyond a shadow of a doubt, that the punishment for our sins has been paid in full, once and for all. There’s nothing we need to add to what Jesus has already done – expect to receive this gift of grace by faith.

Faith is choosing to place our lives & eternal future in His nail-scarred hands, trusting that the same power which raised Jesus from the dead, will raise us up too, so that we can be with Christ forever.

May your heart be encouraged, and your faith strengthened, as we move toward Easter. Though our sins are many, He has erased them all and paid the price to set us free. His righteousness has graciously been credited to us, as we place our trust in the Risen Christ. Hallelujah! What a Savior!

Christ triumphed on the Cross, and the tomb is proof that His sacrifice has been fully accepted.

Hallelujah!! What a Savior!! He Is RISEN!!!

Pastor Adriaan & Diana <><

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FAC Family News: February

Heart to Heart

Are you up for the Big Game? The weeks leading up to February have been filled with plenty of NFL action NFL, as teams fought hard to advance to the Super Bowl. I know the upcoming game between the Chiefs and the 49ers isn’t what many hoped for (I’m still saying the Vikings should be there), but that’s who we get to watch in Super Bowl LVIII.

Last weekend, I enjoyed a quick conversation with one of our teens. He asked who I was cheering for in the conference championship games. I admitted that I liked the way Patrick was leading the Chiefs. He was all about the Detroit Lions. I let Eric know that when we get to Jersey Sunday, I will let my true colors be seen – and he might be surprised at what he sees.

In case you didn’t know, the Super Bowl isn’t the only football game in town...

All week long, I’ve been seeing pictures from another championship series on my social media feeds. The Lions and the Eagles have all been part of the playoffs. But we’re not talking Philadelphia or Detroit. Because Les Elephants have also been playing, along with the Wild Dogs & Black Mambas, in football stadiums across Cote d’Ivoire. Welcome to the other big football championship series: the Africa Cup. By the way, the Cote d’Ivoire Elephants beat last year’s champions (the Senegal Lions), 5-4 on penalty shots. A fitting nail-biter end for such a high profile game. We will see if they can win the Cup!

While the competition was fierce, and the athletes played with great passion for their country, what I enjoyed the most, was seeing the friendly rivalry between fans. Across Senegal, students and parents dressed in their favorite team colors, and hosted watch parties. Some of our IW’s wore the colors of the Senegal Lions, while others secretly cheered for the Elephants.

I love that kind of friendly rivalry, because at the end of the day, we’re still all family. As believers, we may have favorites sports teams, but we recognize that ultimately we all play for the same team – Team Jesus. In fact, we bear the mark of the Lion on our souls, and we serve the Lion of Judah (our Player-Coach who won the ultimate come-from-behind victory on the Cross). It’s our privilege to not only play for Him, but to invite others to join us on His team.

If you’re tracking with the 40 Days of Prayer, Week 5 focuses on the importance of Family. When we follow Jesus, He makes us part of the Church, His forever family. Last week, Steve from Communio, reminded a number of us that being made in the image of God, means that we are wired by our Creator, to be relational. The Godhead – Father, Son & Holy Spirit – distinct in three Persons and yet entirely One, is all about relationships.

That revelation of the nature of God, helps us map out the game plan Jesus wants His players to follow as we reach our neighbors here in Billings and to the far reaches of the planet, with the Gospel. The key to reaching the next Generation, and especially those who claim to have no interest in “organized religion” is to build genuine, redemptive relationships.

Jesus showed us how – love God with all of who you are (heart, soul, mind and strength), and then let the overflow of that relationship pour the life-giving water of God’s love, into those around us. Would you join Diana and I, as we ask the LORD, to fill us by His Spirit and continue to challenge us to love & serve people in this way. May we not grow wearing of doing good (1 Cor.15:58), but instead lean even more into building meaningful relationships with people that God wants playing for His Team.

Go LIONS!!

Pastor Adriaan & Diana <><

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FAC Family News: January

Heart to Heart

Beginnings & ending; open doors and gates; glancing back and looking ahead – all three of these describe what makes January so unique.

Many in our church family would describe the last year (2023) as being a rough one. We experienced so many deaths and the heartache of grief, over and over again. But we also saw new life being birthed amongst us – as 6 children and adults put their trust in the LORD, and the Reifke’s welcomed their first child (shortly after moving to Idaho).

Yes, we saw people we love, moving on to other places and some to other churches. Average attendance dipped to 102 in-person on Sundays, with another 49 watching online. But we also welcomed a number of new people to FAC, and we’re richer for it. Our Griefshare support group not only brought hope to hurting hearts, but the gift of new friendships. As one person put it, “I told my family I’ve got two sisters now that I didn’t have before!” We look forward to seeing those relationships grow even deeper in 2024.

It was hard seeing Kaleb & Katlyn leave FAC early in the Fall, and watching others choose to depart at the same time. But then the LORD brought some new people into our fellowship. We began the search for a new Next Gen/Worship Pastor, as the job description was posted online. In the meantime, we have been praying hard and anticipating God’s timing, to direct us to the person He has been preparing for FAC. God is going to do even MORE in ’24!

One of the joys last year, was watching God supply superabundantly throughout 2023. We ended the year at 103% of budget, and broke $300,000 in General Fund giving. We have been blessed by generous “above & beyond” giving that allowed us to pay off the construction loan with Orchard Alliance, in less than a year. On top of that, we had strong giving to Alliance missions, and sent a 5-person team to Senegal in February. I had the privilege of going back to Africa in November, to lead a prayer retreat for some Alliance IWs. It will be fun to see how God chooses to work thru His people as we plan to send another team to Senegal and visit the other IW team in Africa by year-end. There’s going to be a lot MORE in ’24!

Marketers are savvy people – they know now is the time to promote new diets, gym memberships and sales on exercise equipment. Well, the Scripture says that kind of training is beneficial, but training in godliness is even more crucial (1 Timothy 4:8). That is why I encourage us sign up for the Alliance 40 Days of Prayer (https://40days.cmalliance.org/subscribe). Let’s determine to be people of the Word and of prayer – even MORE in ’24!! The Bible testifies that “they devoted themselves to the apostle’s teaching… and to prayer” – Acts 2:42.

My theme word for 2024 is “Expectant.” I am standing on tip toes, anticipating God doing something that far exceeds our creative thinking or imagination. May we be faithful to extend Help & Hope to the people around us. May we be intentional in seeking to BLESS our neighbors. And may we do all that we can, to complete The Mission to reach the unreached, and to bring back King Jesus in our lifetime.

Let’s believe God for even MORE in ’24!

Pastor Adriaan & Diana <><

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FAC Family News: December

Heart to Heart

I love this season, even though the days are short and the darkness covers the hours when I leave for work and before I make my way home. The reason I rejoice, is because of the lights that can be found throughout the city. As I gaze at brightly lit Christmas trees, and the blinking outdoor decorations that light up the darkness, my heart and mind turn towards Jesus.

Isaiah prophesied that the redeemed of the LORD shall return with singing and everlasting joy, because we have “seen the glory of the LORD, the splendor (majesty) of our God” (Isa 35:2). Over 700 years later, the apostle John gave his own personal testimony of having witnessed, that “the Word became flesh and tabernacled amongst us. We have seen His glory, the glory of the One and Only, who came from the Father, full of grace & truth” (1:14).

Jesus Christ, the Light of the world (John 8:12) has come, pushing back the darkness. “In Him was life, and that life was the light of mankind.” Why is the Light needed? Because, as Isa 60:1-3 says, “darkness covers the earth and thick darkness is over the peoples…” That darkness continues in our generation, as we all seen as both the Jewish & Palestinian people pay a heavy price in the response to the evil that was carried out against Israel on October 7th . Despite the darkness, the Scripture declares that wickedness is unable to overcome or diminish the Light.

So how do we respond to the birth of Jesus in that Bethlehem stable so long ago? Do our hearts shout with heaven’s angels, as they sing “glory to God in the highest, and on earth, peace, toward mankind, those on whom His favor rests” (Lk 2:14)?

Though the world is increasingly hostile to Christ and the Gospel, they love to play Christmas carols at this time of year. Each classic song is seeded with truth, bearing witness to the Savior’s birth. May we, as the followers of Jesus, sing even louder, to the One who volunteered to come, so that He might die in our place and forever remove the sin stain from our souls. May we praise Jesus for all that He has done, so that we might be made right with our heavenly Father.

“The redeemed of the LORD shall… enter Zion with singing; everlasting joy will crown their heads. Gladness and joy will overtake them, and sorrow and sighing will flee away” Isa 35:10.

Lifting up our Songs of Joy, this Christmas season!!

Pastor Adriaan & Diana <><

FAC Family News: November

Heart to Heart

I know the calendar just flipped over from October to November, which means Thanksgiving is just weeks away. For most of us, that’s such a special time of year. Family & friends gather, meals are enjoyed, and people stop to give thanks. Or at least, that’s how it plays out in my head. But sadly, the reality can be far from the truth. In fact, as it says in 2 Timothy 3:2, the terrible times of the last days will be marked by a complete lack of gratitude.

While that may be true in the world around us, it should never be true amongst God’s people. We have so much to be grateful for. The Word urges us express constant thanksgiving - “Rejoice always, pray constantly and give thanks in all circumstances, for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus, for us (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18).

So what are you thankful for today? I’m getting ready to jump on a plane to do ministry on the other side of the world. So my head is already “there”, but my “heart” is full of gratitude here.

I am blessed to be part of such a giving & serving church. I want to say again how good it was to see how well our people served our neighbors last night during our annual Party @ the Patch. Thanks to all who invested so much time, energy and effort into that outreach. Many of our guests expressed their appreciation for providing such a family-friendly, fun, Halloween event.

I am grateful for our Elders & our Governing Board leadership team. FAC has been well-served by these faithful servants of the LORD. Thank you Bruce, Mark, Hans, Sheryl, Mark, Tim, Ron and Del. Add to that, Phil’s partnership in the ministry, and the almost 30 years of ministry that Rita has invested in FAC, and how can we say anything but “praise the LORD!” We are a blessed church!!

THANKS to all of our Childrens, Youth and Adult ministry people. You are making an eternal investment in the hearts & lives of people every week. Thanks to the “Kitchen Ladies” who feed us each week, and to those who serve quietly behind the scenes. You make God smile, as you serve others. Would you join me in expressing thanks to our worship & tech teams, as they pour it out week after week, all year long! Our hearts and souls are richer, because they lead us well in worship. Thank you to all who volunteer and serve alongside our community partners. You are making a significant impact within our city, and we are grateful to the LORD for you!

I want to express a special thanks to Diana and my entire family for the many ways that you serve our FAC family. Stephen, thanks for leading our Tech team – Ashley, I love how you serve with both the Worship team and our Unashamed Youth. Samuel, you make Grandpa proud, as you help me set up the church each weekend, before people show up. Diana, you are such a great partner in life & ministry, and I’m forever grateful! Thanks for the countless hours you’ve invested to care for our people, to prepare slides & sermon outlines for the weekends, and for faithfully serving on the Tech Team. It’s been so good to serve together at FAC these past 7 years, and I look forward to all that God has in store for us in the coming year.

My deepest thanks go to the LORD, for His unfailing love. I am rich beyond measure because of God’s incredible mercy & grace. I have been blessed with the gift of forgiveness & salvation, and delight in hearing the voice of my Savior, saying “this is the way, walk in it.” May the Lord Jesus Christ be exalted, as we celebrate the One who came, extending Hope to each of us.

Join me this month, in deliberately taking time to give thanks each day. May we express our gratitude to the people around us, and chose a lifestyle of “thanksliving”, as we allow the light of Christ to shine through us in this dark, troubled world.

Serving Christ together - Pastor Adriaan & Diana <><

FAC Family News: October

Heart to Heart

Brace yourself!! Both the calendar and the weather are telling us, Fall has arrived… The leaves are changing colors, the temps are falling, there’s a heavy dew on the grass in the morning, and soon our first frost will arrive. Fall happens to be one of my favorite times of the year, because the air is crisp, the colors are amazing and there are so many wonderful sights to capture with my camera.

I know it has been a bumpy ride stepping into Fall ministries this year. We have a small number of children connecting with our Wednesday EXPLORERS ministry team. Lord willing, we will see that grow as we move further into the Fall. We have invested in some great new teaching material for the children that will be used in both Explorers and in Children’s Church on Sunday mornings.

With Kaleb & Katlyn stepping out, the Unashamed Youth ministry has a different flavor this year. But Pastor Phil continues to help our Unashamed Youth dig deeper into making Jesus their top priority in life. At least a dozen have been coming out each week. On Sunday, I had another student share a video with me, showing them confessing Christ as Lord, and being baptized. Let’s celebrate what Jesus continues to do, in the hearts and lives of our students!

Last Sunday (the 24th) many of us attended the potluck lunch and talked about the next steps being taken in the search for a new associate pastor. You can read a summary of what was said in the Governing Board report later in this newsletter. We also shared about a major paydown we made against the principal of the Orchard Loan. Just 10 months ago, we locked into $56,000 loan, amortized over 20 years at 4.5%. Back in December 2022, we were celebrating having to borrow so little, compared to the $300,000 we thought we would need for Phase 2. Check out the Governing Board report in this newsletter, to see where things stand now on the loan…

Now that October is here, that means it’s Pumpkin Patch time… Wait a minute, we stepped away from that ministry! But we will continue to host our community Party @ The Patch outreach on October 31st (6-8pm). That event always takes a lot of volunteers, and plenty of donated candy to fill the treat bags. Can we count on you? Look for the signup board in the lobby to join the Party team, as we express Christ’s love on our community on Halloween night.

I am so grateful for the faithfulness of our God, and the way in which He has lovingly walked with us through the highs and lows this year. May we give thanks and continue to be amazed by His great love and the undeserved gift of righteousness Christ purchased for us through the Cross!

Pastor Adriaan & Diana <><

FAC Family News: September

Heart to Heart

Are you ready for the Big Reset?

I know Labor Day is that final opportunity to get a camping trip in or head to the lake before shifting into Fall mode. Unless you're an archery hunter, then Labor Day weekend is all about finding that elusive elk. If that’s you, hope you have your rain gear as Monday may be wet…

Here in Billings, school has been in session since Aug 22nd, which means the teachers were back in their classrooms the week before. College students have already gotten a week or two of classes under their belts before Labor Day. But once we hit September 5th, the Big Reset kicks in.

Everyone is preparing to shift into the Fall rhythm of life. That means adjusting sleep schedules, working out sports and school activities, and being reminded that church ministries are kicking off too. LIFE groups are restarting, Explorers for children and Unashamed Youth are both launching Fall ministries on Sept 6th . The first Women’s Ministry event (Rise Up) is scheduled for Sept 9th . So there's a lot that begins to happen immediately after Labor Day.

We remind ourselves too, that the call to BLESS our neighbors continues. We want to begin with praying for them, listening carefully to their stories and sharing meals together. We will come alongside our neighbors to serve them and then share our faith stories with them. May we continue to lean into Abraham’s and our calling (Genesis 12) to bring the BLESSing of the Messiah, to our lost and broken world. BLESS your neighbors – it’s the lifestyle Jesus calls us to.

This Fall will include several significant changes for FAC. Kaleb will conclude his ministry with us on Sept.10th. While we will miss he and Katlyn, their absence means opportunity for others to step up and lean into the ministry gaps they leave behind. An all-church potluck lunch on Sept.24th will be your opportunity to hear how the Governing Board will proceed in searching for a new pastoral staff member. We will also be sharing some exciting news about our Phase 2 loan with Orchard.

Diana and I are gone over Labor Day, to be with our parents up in Canada. We look forward to stepping back into the Big Reset when we return. May we as a church, continue to pray and labor for the sake of the Gospel this Fall, as we work hard to bring back the KING!

Grateful for God’s amazing grace – Pastor Adriaan & Diana <><

FAC Family News: August

Heart to Heart

This has been an unusual year for FAC. I hope that you’ve appreciated God’s kindness to us, in bringing so many of our Alliance IWs to FAC over these past 9 months.

Just think back with me who we’ve seen. Back in in late October 2022 – Mike from Senegal shared his heart concerning the work in St Louis. His message and stories were so timely, as Team Senegal was gearing up for our February 2023 trip, that had us working alongside Mike’s colleagues in Senegal. Then, in early May, we enjoyed connecting with Tim & Penny who serve on the opposite side of the world, in the Asia region. A month later, the Erickson family stayed with us for a week (right after Council in Spokane – where FAC hosted a meal for over 15 people tied to our partnership ministry in West Africa). It was awesome to connect with Josh & Heather, along with their children. Last month, we enjoyed brief visits with the extended Douglas family, several of whom serve with the Canadian Alliance in the Asia region. And now, we are hosting Andre & Kate, a CAMA couple (along with their two young children) who also serve in the Asia region.

Friends, that’s blessing on top of blessing!! We have been reminding ourselves that God has called us as His people, to be a channel of BLESSING to the nations – Genesis 12:3. The 5 things that we can do to BLESS our neighbors, is how our IW friends are living out their calling - “Declare his glory among the nations, his marvelous deeds among all peoples.” Psalm 96:3

Think of the added blessing FAC has enjoyed these past months. These devoted servants of the LORD have helped us to hear God’s heartbeat for the nations - His desire to reach all peoples with the Gospel of Jesus Christ. While they visit with us, we heard their stories of how they came to faith in Christ, and how the LORD called them to serve as IWs. As they talk about their life and ministry, we hear stories of how other people have come to faith and have been marvelously transformed by the power of Christ. Through our IWs, we have also gained a clearer picture of what God is doing through our larger Alliance family.

Another blessing has been to have a two-way relationship established with our partners in West Africa. We have served alongside them where they serve, and now they’ve come to FAC and seen where we live and serve. We also believe that God is talking to hearts of who might go in the Fall of 2024, when our next team heads for Senegal.

I hope this encourages your hearts as it does mine, and that the Holy Spirit continues to stir us to pray earnestly, to give generously to Alliance missions, and to even say with Isaiah, “here am I, send me!”

Grateful for God’s kindness to us – Pastor Adriaan & Diana <><

FAC Family News: July

Heart to Heart

Jesus noted the tired looks on his disciple’s faces. They were running so hard, there was no time to eat. And the needs of the crowds just continued to grow. It was right in the midst of an intense ministry season, that Jesus said, “Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest.” (Mark 6:31). As one wag put it, Jesus’ words were to “come apart with me” before you completely “come apart.”

We’re in July now, and there are all kinds of trips being taken and others being planned. Some involve family reunions, while others are to break away from work and find a quiet spot to retreat. What all of them have in common, is the desire to “get some rest.” As you read this newsletter, Diana and I are on the road and in pursuit of some rest, ourselves. We may even be a living example of Jesus’ observation that the needs of the crowd were overwhelming the disciples to the point of exhaustion. Rest is something all of us need, although what that looks like is as different as there are people.

Last Saturday’s hike and my personal time up in the Beartooths the day before, both helped to charge my batteries. I need those times in the mountains and taking in the majestic vistas, to let some of the weight and burden of ministry fall off my shoulders. Capturing some of those images on my camera, helps me to go back for some “micro-vacations” as I take a few moments to enjoy that landscape photo and am reminded of how restful that place was.

While hiking with our people and the Ericksons on top of the Bighorn Mtns last weekend, I captured this shot. It speaks volumes to me. This trail has both people and vehicles using it. The message is the same for both – hurry up and slow down. When you move at a slower speed, you catch more of the scenery, and your soul has a chance to be refreshed.

God invites us to slow down and sit at His feet, drinking in the living water of His Word. “In repentance and rest is your salvation, in quietness and trust is your strength” (Isa.30:15). When burdens are laid down, and we choose to pull in tandem with Jesus, He promises refreshing and rest for our souls (Matthew 11:28-29). The weariness and weight of life in a broken world, will be replaced by the joy of having the LORD carry those things for us.

Paradise Falls is definitely a top 3 on my list of places I want to go to again this summer. The stream turns into a series of small waterfalls and pools of water, with a rock slide. Across the way are large granite spires, and a beautiful misty waterfall (Paradise Falls). I could sit there for hours – and hope to in the near future.

In the meantime, we are following Jesus’ instructions in retreating with Him, and as we do, finding rest for our weary souls. We have been praying for your vacation travel, and would appreciate it if you would pray for ours. Lord willing, when we show up again on the 12th, you’ll be able to tell that we’ve spent some great time with the LORD, with family & friends, and we’ve come home refreshed.

Joyfully serving the LORD with you,

Pastor A & Diana <><