June 9th, 2019, the Feast of Pentecost, was the twelfth anniversary of the launching of New Evangelization Ministries. The Lord had given me a vision for establishing a ministry that would work with parishes to establish the New Evangelization in very practical ways. In addition to the vision, the Lord had given me 3 clear rules in carrying out the ministry:
- I can’t charge fees for services.
- I can’t do major fundraising.
- I can’t do major publicity.
As you can imagine, trying to start an apostolate (company) under those conditions would be almost impossible. Several people, including my father, told me that very thing. And yet, twelve years later, we are still here. There is no real explanation but God.
Between Pentecost 2007 and June of that year, when we sold our house and moved to Steubenville, Ohio, the Lord had miraculously gathered forty thousand dollars in the corporate account. This was the seed money that God used to get NEM off the ground.
The Israelites, wandering in the desert for forty years, had to wait every morning and evening for the Lord to bring their manna and quail to survive. They needed forty years to learn the lesson that God is the provider and worth waiting for!
I wish I could tell you that the last twelve years have been easy and without any difficulties, but that would be untrue. The Lord has been working on me as I have been working for Him. The lesson that has become so very clear is that I can trust Him.
Key Principle for individuals and churches:
If the Lord is calling, the Lord is providing.
I can’t tell you how many times I have tried to go ahead of the Lord in this ministry, thinking that the results actually depend on what I do.
I will build this ministry.
My gifts make this ministry happen.
People hire me.
…
The truth is that the Lord has been trying to help me grow in faith so that I could simply learn how to wait upon Him for His provision in all things. This includes money, ministry, healing, overcoming sin, and what this ministry will become.
After twelve years, one might question where we are going and what are we doing. I know I have, countless times. In the midst of my questioning God, I never understood the simple request (that I heard God say many times) to wait for Me (God).
I have had to let go of everything, including my personal need to produce something great in the eyes of others (pride). Learning to become satisfied with what God gives me has not been an easy journey, but I am so thankful that I have been on it.
Go figure, December 17th, 2019 will mark forty years of my walking with the Lord. It only took me forty years to learn that I must wait upon the Lord.
Thank You, Jesus.
Beautiful Amen! This is one I think we all are in the process of learning. Thank you for sharing your truth. Our people need to hear that our leaders struggle with the same issues. That not one of us is any better or holier than any other. We are only saved by the power of Jesus Christ. Congratulations on your 40 year journey, may the next 40 be the most amazing yet!
Amen, Karen, We are all on the same road and need God’s Grace.
Humble Thanks,
dr
I read every word and then reread it again. Our Paster talks about it all the time – when praise runs out it turns to pride. Carol and I are in the process of getting rid of all earthly things except perhaps a small used motor home to live in. We have sold the family farm with closing to take place end of month. We are trying to sell the business and land so we can like you Deacon concentrate on bringing individuals closer to Christ. – We wont have much when it is all said and done with taxes etc but Carol and I will have Jesus Christ and be able to meet you in prayer each day.
Wow! You are witnessing powerfully to the Lord and his provision. Thank you for your faithfulness!
-Mark