[Jesus] “is the head of the body, the church: who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead; that in all things he might have the preeminence” (Col 1:18). As Paul lists the excellencies of Jesus Christ over everything and everyone, we learn that he created everything in the universe (v. 16), which makes him the Master of all things (v. 17). He sustains the entire created order (v. 17), so that everything exists for his purposes and glory. Obviously, he is the Head of his church, because he conquered death by rising from the grave (v. 18). This means that he is first in everything: in the created universe, over angels and demons, over death, and over the church he redeemed. He is preeminent.

This past month we spent two weeks in Paysandú, Uruguay. The first week was our annual GMSA missionary conference. We enjoyed getting to see our missionary colleagues from Uruguay, Argentina, and Chile, as well as several from the United States. While we anticipated very hot weather, a huge rainstorm our first full day there kept the temperatures down. The second week we served as part of the camp team along with GMSA missionaries and long-time friend Dan and Liz Thompson, helping out around the campground and getting ready for kids’ camp the following week. Mark got to spend some time mowing grass (it’s been a while since he’s done that!). We took a two-day trip with the whole camp team to visit the church in Gualeguaychú, Argentina where GMSA missionaries Tim and Cristina Goossen serve. We enjoyed the change of pace, the different scenery (green!), and the fellowship of our missionary friends.

It’s always good to get back home where God has placed us and get back to our home church. We’ve jumped back in with church ministries, Bible studies, and visits as the summer vacations wrap up. Lord willing, we will visit the Flincks in Arica the first week of March, and we also have the opportunity to host a short-termer who is helping the mission with audio visual media for a few days. We appreciate your prayers for us, for health and strength, both physical and spiritual. We need wisdom in word and deed. Please pray for your brothers and sisters in Christ here in the church in Antofagasta. Pray for us to live with Jesus Christ as preeminent in all things.

This is our February 2024 email update. You can sign up to receive our updates in your inbox here. You can download a printable PDF here.