The Mission Foundation
P.O. Box 46358
Baton Rouge, LA 70808
September 29, 2009
Dear friends,
Thank you for praying for the World Missions Conference at Trinity Church, Covington, LA. Almost all of Trinity’s missionaries were able to attend this special weekend of celebrating existing work and calling men and women to launch themselves more fully into the work of fulfilling the Great Commission. I preached on Acts 13:1-5, “Antioch Church, World Christians” and called the brothers and sisters at Trinity to see the world through the lens of the cross. It was great to be back at Trinity where I served as pastor from 1986-93.
Last Monday and Tuesday, September 21-22, I was in Dallas for the Ministry to State Symposium. Rev. Chuck Garriott, director of MTS in Washington, D.C., did an excellent job of facilitating the discussion among the nine of us who participated in this symposium which was held at Park Cities Presbyterian Church. We discussed theological foundations, goals, and strategies for ministry as well as personal experiences in ministry to those in government.
P.O. Box 46358
Baton Rouge, LA 70808
September 29, 2009
Dear friends,
Thank you for praying for the World Missions Conference at Trinity Church, Covington, LA. Almost all of Trinity’s missionaries were able to attend this special weekend of celebrating existing work and calling men and women to launch themselves more fully into the work of fulfilling the Great Commission. I preached on Acts 13:1-5, “Antioch Church, World Christians” and called the brothers and sisters at Trinity to see the world through the lens of the cross. It was great to be back at Trinity where I served as pastor from 1986-93.
Last Monday and Tuesday, September 21-22, I was in Dallas for the Ministry to State Symposium. Rev. Chuck Garriott, director of MTS in Washington, D.C., did an excellent job of facilitating the discussion among the nine of us who participated in this symposium which was held at Park Cities Presbyterian Church. We discussed theological foundations, goals, and strategies for ministry as well as personal experiences in ministry to those in government.
Initial greetings being exchanged among us
Brad Braddley of Park Cities Presbyterian and
Brad Braddley of Park Cities Presbyterian and
Chuck Garriott, Ministry to State, Washington, D.C.
On Monday afternoon, Chuck Garriott called on us to share
our experiences and perspectives, as he engaged in something
of an interview with each of us. Chuck's final question to
each man was "Why do you love the Church?"
On Monday evening, we had a very enjoyable and
profitable working dinner.
During our symposium, I was asked what is the outcome that I am seeking in my ministry to those in government. Here is a more complete answer than the one I gave at the symposium.
During my 16 years at our state capitol, my earnest intention has been to do all that I could, through prayer, Bible study, personal interaction, and private counsel, to help these men and women grow in spiritual healthiness. Why these people?
Romans 13 says that the governing authority is “a minister of God to you for good.” In January of 1993, God called me to minister to these ministers of God – first, for their sake and for the sake of their families. Among those in government, there are men and women whose service to us requires great sacrifice to them and to their spouses and children. They are away from home where they are as needed as you are to your home. Also, they are away from their normal business and professional endeavors for long periods of time. Beyond this, these men and women constantly live with two great challenges to their healthiness as followers of Christ. They face a steady barrage of temptations that can lead to impurity of heart, mind, and body, and they must deal with pressures and disappointments that can lead even the strongest to discouragement. So my reason for being at the State Capitol is first and foremost for these men and women.
However, I am also hopeful that these governmental leaders will have a positive impact on their colleagues (which they are) and that they will grow in the wisdom and holiness necessary to make good decisions for the people of the State of Louisiana. I am especially hopeful that they will fulfill the injunction received by King Lemuel from his wise and godly mother: “Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves. Speak up and judge fairly; defend the rights of the poor and needy.” (Prov. 31:8-9)
Well, dear friends, thank you again for your prayers and for your financial support of us in our work. If you are among those who receive this letter and do not participate financially, would you please consider becoming a monthly supporter? Even what you may think of as a very small contribution would be greatly appreciated. May the Lord bless you all.
In the Savior,
Rod and Bec
