As Paul concludes his brief report of what God is doing through his incarceration, he reminds the Philippian church that although they live in the Roman empire, they are actually citizens of heaven (cf. 3:20). “Only let your conversation be as it becometh the gospel of Christ: that whether I come and see you, or else be absent, I may hear of your affairs, that ye stand fast in one spirit, with one mind striving together for the faith of the gospel” (Phil 1:27). As such, they should live in a way that is worthy of the gospel: they have been redeemed from this world for the next. They should be united with their brothers and sisters who are engaged in the same struggle (1:27), they should not cower at the threats made by unbelievers (1:28), and they should follow the godly examples around them, like Paul, Timothy, and Epaphroditus (1:30; cf. ch. 2).

Fall has brought cooler weather, more cloudy days, and the ocean has been a brilliant turquoise blue. We’re thankful to live in a beautiful location that declares the glory of its Creator. This past month brought us many opportunities to serve our church family here in Antofagasta. Our teammates, the Flincks, traveled to the United States to attend the graduation of their son, Jordan, and to get their daughter, Kaylee, ready to start college in the fall. We will miss Kaylee’s cheerful smile here in Antofagasta. David officially stepped down from his role as an elder of the church, although they will continue as faithful members for the next several months as they prepare to move to the city of Arica later this year.

Lord willing, this evening we will travel to the United States for a few weeks to attend two weddings, visit a new supporting church, and check in on our families. We appreciate your prayers for us as we travel, rest, and seek to serve those around us. As always, we ask you to uphold your Chilean brothers and sisters in Christ here in Antofagasta in prayer. Pray that they would walk worthy of the gospel, that they would be united in their pursuit of Jesus Christ, and they would be prepared to suffer for the Name.

This is our May 2023 email update. You can sign up to receive our updates in your inbox here. You can download a printable PDF here.