Between ruts and routines, risks and rewards ...

Well, the holidays are over and it's time to go back to work.  Having time off is a mixed bag.  On the one hand, it is nice to catch your breath and wind down a little.  On the other hand, it's a bit of a challenge to get momentum back after a lay off.  Oh well, time to put our shoulders back to the work!  Today I have already been reminded of God's goodness and the significant work of ministry that He calls us to, and for which He enables us.  In the coming months here are some of the areas I believe God is leading me to serve Him:

Effingham Adventure Weekend (April 11-14, Effingham County High School) - This is a four day evangelistic effort to reach those in Effingham County who are not yet in a relationship by faith to Jesus Christ.  The focus is to proclaim the Gospel using several unique approaches.  If your church has not already done so, please pray and give to the EAW budget and volunteer as you are able.

Bible Institute - We are working together with Continuing Education Ministries of the Georgia Baptist Convention to develop a Bible Institute in the MBA.  I am hoping this will allow us to make an investment in training and equipping local leaders and mature disciples to help strengthen our local churches.  Our goal is to get this up and running by the Fall.  We hope to offer two classes a semester.  There will be a small fee for texts and the facilitators.

Appalachia and Haiti - We are planning another summer mission trip to Cleveland, TN to work alongside Ocoee Outreach.  Last year we helped with construction and VBS and hosted a block party.  I am also communicating with Haitian Christian Mission about ways we can help meet needs in Haiti.  Haiti is the poorest country in the Western hemisphere and has been devastated by hurricanes, earthquakes and disease.  I will be communicating with you about projects and opportunities to meet needs.

Supporting MBA Churches - This is big and vague, but the most obvious reason we are here is to serve the churches of the Middle Baptist Association in the host of ways that God makes clear.  Revitalization is still heavy on my heart.  Many churches need assistance in thinking strategically about having a healthy ministry to their community.  Last year we began to talk about partnerships, but the idea didn't get much traction.  Perhaps developing assessment tools to help churches regain their focus and passion to have a New Testament ministry is another direction to look.  We will continue to pray for you, provide connections and resources, love, and serve alongside you as ministry partners.

For His glory (1 Corinthians 10:31),

Bobby Braswell, Jr.