In Romans 6, Paul presents a two-pronged argument for Christians to obey God and reject living in sin. First, the “old me” who was dominated and enslaved to sin died with Jesus, and with him I rose again to new life (6:1–14). Second, thinking back on our lives of slavery to sin, how well were we remunerated for our service to sin? We reaped the fruit of shame, leading to death (6:21). What promise do we have for our obedience to God? Progress in sanctification and ultimately, eternal life (6:22). “For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord” (6:23).
We always enjoy having visitors here in Antofagasta: several of Mark’s family got to see a slice of our lives, as well as an aunt and uncle who were vacationing in northern Chile. If you’re ever in the area, stop in and see us! We live in a masterpiece of God’s creative beauty.
Bekah had some lower back trouble this past month, but it seems to be getting better each day. We are thankful for health and strength and never want to take it for granted.
The elders of our church came to us a few weeks ago and asked if we would consider staying in Antofagasta for two more years, presenting us with a list of specific projects and goals consistent with our gifts and strengths. We both felt very well “shepherded” to have men who take seriously the spiritual oversight of our lives, who know us intimately and watch us week in and week out, attempt to steer us to ministry opportunities that line up with how God has created us and wired us. We were able to get a good deal of counsel, and after talking it over and praying together, we accepted their proposal. Lord willing, we plan to continue serving the Iglesia Berea in Antofagasta until October 2025.
We continue to minister to our brothers and sisters here in Antofagasta with Bible studies and visits most week nights. We appreciate prayer for good rest and physical stamina. This coming month will bring more travel: Mark will spend a week in the south at the annual Chilean pastors’ conference, then we will travel to Uruguay for a week of our annual missionary conference, and we will stay there an additional week to minister at a family camp. We appreciate your prayers for us.
- Thank God with us for his grace in both our justification in Jesus Christ and his ongoing work of sanctification in us.
- Thank God with us for his grace in sending visitors to us in Antofagasta.
- Thank God with us for his grace in the many disciplemaking opportunities he gives us.
- Pray to God with us for his grace to present ourselves to God as instruments for doing right.
- Pray to God with us for his grace to see progress in sanctification in our lives and in our church family here in Antofagasta.
- Pray to God with us for his grace in increased travel over the next month.
This is our December 2023 email update. You can sign up to receive our updates in your inbox here. You can download a printable PDF here.
Comments are closed