The World Race - Derek Begin

I'm Not Who You Think I Am or Was...

Thu, 12 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT

" I'm not who you think I am"...or better yet, "I'm not who I was"....

These are a couple thoughts that have been going on in my mind as of lately so I wanted to write yet another blog to share with you about what is & has been going on in my life as of lately (within the last 5 months).

As you know, or may not know, in my last blog I shared with you about my desire to go to G42 Leadership Academy in Spain because I felt that GOD was calling me there to help me grow in the area of leadership in order to become the man of GOD HE wanted me to be/become. Well, long story short, I didn't end up going and have been here in Phoenix, AZ trying to get back on my feet stability wise...emotionally, physically, financially and most importantly, spiritually. And to be completely honest, I was very disappointed that I wasn't able to go to G42 LA, but found peace & comfort in knowing that this wasn't where GOD wanted me to be during this season of my life.

So, I have been here in Phoenix trying to get back on my feet and allowing GOD to meet me where I am at and it has been very hard, but very, very healthy. You see, I have to be upfront and totally honest with you...since I became a Christian (since 1997) I have been very, very religious. The Merriam-Webster Dictionary defines " Religious " as a service(s) or a personal set of or institutionalized system of religious beliefs, attitudes and practices".

And in the words of a fellow sister in CHRIST, I echo her words in agreement..." I have put on a religious mask doing all the "right" things. I have gotten my identity from the things I did and the praise I got from others. I have pretended to be perfect (often at times lying to do so) for so long, I lost my identity. I did the praying and bible reading but it did not connect to my heart- it was all head knowledge. I have been a Pharisee- judging people and myself by the standard of perfection that no one but Jesus can meet."

**(More to come on this in my next blog...Why I hate Religion).**

Some other areas that GOD has been helping me work through are trust, commitment and fear issues. HE's been showing and teaching me about how to open up in deep conversations while being transparent & genuine in relationships. HE's shown me that I had a bunch of walls (hurts, fears, failures, rejection, etc.) that I built up from my past in order to try to protect myself and my personal image (Example = not kissing before I got married). Other areas GOD has been teaching and growing me is in sharing my true emotions/feelings in unconditional love. And finally, GOD showing me and helping me to work through my perfectionist attitude/mind-set (which is not a bad thing, but also, not a good thing. But needs to be a healthy balance in doing/being so).

I can honestly share with you that I don't have it all figured out, but am allowing GOD to change me from the inside out...spirit, soul, mind & body. As a result, I am becoming whole and complete "IN CHRIST" (Colossians 2:10), I am truly "walking in newness of (my) life" (Romans 6:4) and I am starting to live in GOD's freedom that HE offers through HIS Son JESUS.

So, in closing, I have to make a personal confession & an apology to any and all of my family & friends...

" I thought I was a perfect Christian...saying the right things, doing the right things...playing the so called perfect part or role...looking good on the outside by acting like I had it 'all together' when in reality, I was dying on the inside, desiring more to this Christian walk, in life and in my personal relationship with GOD." Two years ago, I cried out to GOD telling HIM "There's got to be more than what I am experiencing right now. GOD I am empty and feel so dry...there has to be more to this life than the everyday mundane & motions I am going through as a so called Christian... I want more of you." And the answer of my heartfelt cry....The World Race (www.theworldrace.org) and placing an honest, life-saving & beautiful sister in CHRIST (www.rachelhartman.theworldrace.org) into my heart & life. Enough said, GOD heard my heartfelt cry and wrecked my whole world by sending me on The World Race and back & bringing Rachel into my heart & life to get me to this point in my intimate walk and relationship with HIM that I have now."

Dear Family & Friends..."please forgive me because I let you down by giving you a false perception of what a true Christian is, but most importantly, who GOD is...GOD is love and doesn't look at the outside of our skin, but looks at our hearts within. Sorry for putting such a bad taste in your mouth because I was the one living in my self-righteousness and sin. How can I ever receive your forgiveness? I want you to know that I plead guilty and I grieve with sadness within. So, I ask for your forgiveness and pray that you will find it within to forgive & forget. So I can begin again to genuinely show you GOD's relentless love for you because he created you & I to relate, walk and love HIM."

Heavenly FATHER....please forgive me for my idolatry of myself & of my own selfish ways. For trying to please man rather than you. I am truly humbled & thankful for the work that you have done within the past two years through The World Race mission trip and through your precious princess & daughter Rachel. I am forever grateful & thankful with my whole heart and being. Thank you for your promise that you will continue to do a good work in me while pefecting me until the day of CHRIST JESUS return. In JESUS' name-Amen.

Last, but not least, please know that I am not saying that I have totally arrived, far from it, but I am saying that " I'm not who you think I am"...or better yet, "I'm not who I was" . Praise GOD that HE loves me enough to take me through all this crap not leaving me where I was, but cares & loves me enough to bring me to a continuing place to where & who HE wants me to be/become...like HIS Son JESUS!!

What about you? Truly & honestly ask yourself, people & GOD these important questions:

"Who do you say you are?"...

"Who do people say you are?",

but most importantly,

"Who does GOD say you are?"

G42 Leadership Academy

Fri, 18 Nov 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Dear Friends & Family,

I want to first start off by thanking all of you for your prayers, financial & encouraging support that you have showed me during the last two months or so as I was going through a very rough time!! I can share with you that I went through some counseling (Freedom in CHRIST Ministries: www.ficm), which GOD used to help bring some healing & restoration to me.

And I know that I'm not through it all yet. But believing that the next step GOD is calling me to in order to bring further healing and to also prepare me for future leadership is to attend G42 Leadership Academy. G42 Leadership Academy is a network of Christ-followers with the mission to plant churches, businesses, & ministries to spread the Kingdom of God around the world-to inspire and develop leaders who are passionate about giving their lives to the Message of Christ. Knowing that growing into the man God desires me to be will require leading in different aspects be it in marriage, community, missions or ministry. The next step is for me to develop in this and the leadership academy will help to do this. My heart is to lead any and all-to be all that God created them to be. This I am learning myself. I can't lead if I haven't walked a similar road. God's got me on a new path and I pray you join me again. If you would like more information about this G42 Leadership Academy, please take some time to check it out at www.g42leadershipacademy.org.

My projected date for leaving is around January 7, 2012, but I still have much to prepare for. I would once again invite you to prayerfully consider becoming part of my team through one of two ways:

Committing to pray for me, my finances and for what GOD is going to do in and through this leadership academy;
Committing to help me financially as GOD would put on your heart to give. I must raise $6,300 for this trip(room, board, books and food)** To donate please go online to www.g42leadershipacademy.org/donate and follow directions.**

If you would like to help me with additional personal costs ($2,000-$3,000) for this trip (airfare to/from Spain, personal travel within Spain, additional food & personal items) please contact me at (602)299-2792 or at begind@hotmail.com or on facebook. Also, if you have any frequent fly miles/ credits that you would like to donate...that would help too.

G42, the 42nd generation is registered with the Internal Revenue Service as a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. Donors will receive receipts for their gifts with the understanding that the disbursement of those gifts lies completely at the discretion of G42 and that the gifts are non refundable and non transferable, per IRS regulations. Gifts may be tax deductible; please consult a tax advisor.

With your help, I know this will prepare me for what GOD is calling me to for HIS future plans. G42 will aid in training and equipping me to be the godly leader that HE is raising me up to be in order to make an eternal impact for HIS Kingdom!

For GOD's Kingdom,

Derek

A Hurting Heart...

Tue, 18 Oct 2011 00:00:00 GMT

A Hurting Heart...

Dear Friends & Family,

As most of you know, I have returned home safely from my 11 month mission trip, (www.derekbegin.theworldrace.org), which was life-changing for me! Since my return, I have been home resting, visiting family & friends and seeking GOD for what HE has in store for me next. "What's that?" you may be asking.

Well...to be honest, I really don't have any clear direction other than trying to get a job and praying that GOD would show me where & what HE wants me to be & do. I can say that GOD has been challenging me a lot in my own walk with HIM and in my own personal life right now. During the last couple of months GOD, through a sister in CHRIST, has revealed to me that I have a lot of walls, fears, pains & hurts that I have not personally dealt with from my past, which has now caught up with me and has tossed me into a tailspin and affecting me a lot. And if I don't deal with it now, it will continue to affect me and many other relationships in the future. As I trust in GOD and as a result of this, I am planning on seeking counsel from a ministry called Transformed Hearts Ministries, which is located in Post Falls, Idaho.Please take some time to check it out at www.transformedheartsministries.com Just as I went out to help many people physically & spiritually on my 11 month mission trip, GOD has shown me that I am the one who now needs help in regards to seeking help in order to live in complete wholeness and aliveness in CHRIST!

My projected date for leaving is as soon as I can...raising all the funds & scheduling the needed counseling. But I can't do this without your help and invite you to prayerfully consider helping me with these costs ($900-$1500) for this trip (airfare to/from Idaho, rental car, hotel & food costs) please contact me at (602)299-2792 or via internet at begind@hotmail.com or on facebook.

It is humbling & hard for me to write & share this with you, but I know that I can't do this by myself. GOD never intended us to be an island unto ourselves, so I am asking for your help, both prayerfully & financially. I know seeking this counsel through Transformed Hearts Ministries is where I need to go in order to bring healing to my wounded heart and will allow me to walk in wholeness of who GOD has truly intended me to be as HIS beloved child! The question is...will you help me so I can get complete healing emotionally & spiritually in my own life? And who knows how GOD will use this in order for me to help others that are also struggling with the same or similar areas. Whatever or however you can help is so much appreciated- thanks!

A Hurting Heart,

Derek

PS-There has been many of you that have talked to me about wanting to hear about my 11 month mission trip, who haven't been able to attend, for one reason or another. So, just for you...I will be sharing again on November 6^th at Desert Springs Bible Church in the Youth Activity Center @ 1:00-2:00 pm. Hope you can make it and hope to see you there!

11 countries 11 months

The World Race is a stretching journey into 11 countries in 11 months to serve "the least of these" while amongst real and raw community. This unique mission trip is a challenging adventure for young adults to abandon worldly possessions and a traditional lifestyle in exchange for an understanding that it's not about you; it's about the Kingdom.

It's not the End...it's just the BEGINning!

Thu, 26 May 2011 00:00:00 GMT

It's not the End...it's just the Beginning!

As I sit here in my room at "The Best Hotel" on Pangkor Island in Malaysia...

I wanted to write one last blog while I am still on TWR.

( Don't worry, it won't be the last time writing period...sorry you can't get rid of me that easily J ).

So much to reflect on in regards to what GOD is teaching me & what HE has taught me in this season of The World Race. But at the same time...too much to process through in one sitting or at one time.

So, please bare with me as I try to share a little bit about what GOD has taught me during the passed 11 months so far
(And possibly more to write about in the future?)

(1) In the Dominican Republic HE taught me what it looks like to be a genuine servant of HIS;

(2) In Haiti HE taught me how to be still before HIM while being HIS hands, feet & heart to orphans;

(3) In Moldova (Europe)...HE taught me what a heart of compassion looks like....ultimately giving me a glimpse of what HIS compassionate heart looks & feels like;

(4) In Moldova(Europe) 2^nd month...HE taught me what a thankful heart looks & feels like;

(5) In Africa (3 months)...HE taught me about perseverance, my identity that is foundonly in CHRIST and being sensitive to HIS leading;

(6) In China...HE taught me about living without fear and walking in boldness despite the possibility of being persecuted for HIM;

(7) In Thailand...HE taught me what it looks like to be a Man of GOD walking in HIS uprightness & HIS integrity....HE taught me I am defined by only HIM and not others...HE taught me to be a silent leader through leading others by example/modeling through my actions.

(8) In Malaysia...HE reminded me that HE is the only true GOD who is all about relationships because HE is Love.

What was once a desire & dream in my heart to travel around the world telling others about the hope and love of JESUS has come to fruition, but I truly believe it doesn't stop here, which means it's not over yet.

This desire & dream is only the beginning because it's a calling that GOD has placed in my heart...and in yours too. In fact, it's more than a calling...it's actually a commandment from GOD and really not an option.( Matthew 28:18-20 )

And in following HIS commandment, I want to be obedient to GOD in this and I pray that I will continue to be as I trust in HIM for my future and my life.

So...

You may be wondering... "What's next for you?"

Or maybe I am asking myself... "I wonder what's next for me?"

And the answer to this/these questions is...

"I don't know what my future holds,

And that's ok because I know who holds and is in control of my future---GOD."

And to be totally honest about it... I have such a peace, comfort & rest in trusting and believing that GOD will guide & direct my every step into the next season of my life, which I know will be HIS very best that HE wants to give to me.

How do I know this?...Because GOD gave HIS very best when HE gave HIS one and only Son-JESUS to die for all of mankind. So that our relationship with GOD could be restored with HIM through JESUS. And in trusting GOD in this, I know that...

I am HIS child...

I am HIS son...

I am HIS beloved...

HE will not lead me astray...

And ultimately...

HE has HIS very best planned for me and for my future!

And at the same time GOD gives me His freedom to...

This season of my life that GOD has called me in is just about over...it's bitter-sweet if that makes sense. But now HE will be leading me into a new season, which is always scary, but also so exciting! A new season that I welcome and am truly thankful for HIM to bring me to and to lead me through.

For GOD has given me a Kingdom mind-set & a heart to see HIS Kingdom come!

So, I have such a peace with whatever GOD has planned for me in my future...
may HIS Kingdom come...

And may HIS will be done!

"For I know the plans I have for you, declares the LORD, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future."

(Jeremiah 29:11-12)

"FATHER...

I commit and thank YOU for the last 11 months and for the priviledge it was to serve, to share, to live and most importantly, to fall more in love with YOU during this time. Thank YOU for teaching me all that YOU did & for drawing me in a deeper walk, dependance, trust, faith, intimacy and love with and for YOU. I know that everything that YOU allowed me to go through during these passed 11 months was part of YOUR perfect plan and will for me in order to prepare me for what YOU have in store for me for my future. YOU are so good, so merciful and so loving! I surrender & bow my heart and whole being in thanksgiving to you and may I continue to allow my life to reflect my thankfulness to & love for you in return!

May YOU receive all the praise, honor & glory for the passed 11 months!

In Your Sons name JESUS I pray & ask these things

--amen."

In closing...I can Joyfully say that...

This is not the End, but it's just the BEGINning
of a new season in my life with GOD!

For the Sake of LOVE...

Sun, 22 May 2011 00:00:00 GMT

For the sake of LOVE...

In my own heart, I have pondered and asked myself the following questions...

"Is there more to & in this life than the same 'ole boring routine, mundane schedule and same thing day in/day out that causes you to become a creature of habit?"

"Is there more than having all the money in the world?"

"Is there more than trying to acquire/gain an abundance of personal things/possessions?"

"Is there more than striving for acceptance/significance from others in regards to status/fame?"

"Is there more than gaining all the wisdom/knowledge from books or academia/academic institutions?"

"Is there more than being religious...on the basis of feeling like you have to do this/that, or trying to earn/work your way to happiness?"

Another question I have thought about or maybe you have probably asked me and that is...

"What would compel me (you) to leave for 11 months, leaving everything I (you) have...My family, my girlfriend, my friends, my church family, my job, my favorite hobbies and my comfortable lifestyle?"

If you have never felt or experienced GOD's unconditional love for you, which is not based on if your loveable, but based purely on HIS nature and who HE is...than I would challenge you to personally ask GOD to show HIS love to you and HE will.

WARNING:

it may not feel or look like the way you desire or expect it to be!

My relationship with GOD fills the emptiness & void within my heart and life and HE can do the same for you too!

( John 10:10b )

If you are willing, then GOD is more than able...
then you will find true peace, joy, contentment and fullness in HIM. But if you are not willing, then you will continue to live a life for yourself trying to fill your heart & life with meaningless money, material things, fame, education and religious efforts, which will only leave you empty, discontent & unhappy.

"What good is it for a man to gain the whole world, yet forfeit his soul?

Or what can a man give in exchange for his soul?"

( Mark 8:36-37 )

"He who has the Son (JESUS) has life;
he who does not have the Son (JESUS) of GOD does not have life!"

( 1 John 5:12 )

ONLY GOD can satisfy & meet your deepest needs (emotionally, physically, financially & most importantly, spiritually) through a personal & meaningful relationship with HIM.

GOD is calling each and everyone one of us to HIMSELF to have a personal & meaningful relationship with HIM because HE is more than enough and can truly satisfy meeting all of our deepest desires and needs!

It comes down to one closing important question...

"Do you & I really believe that GOD is so good, so satisfying, so rewarding and so loving that we will leave all that we have, all we own and all we are in order to find our fullness in HIM?"

(David Plat,Radical, Multnomah Press, 2010, 18-19)

So...my answer(s) to these question(s) is "yes" because it is...

For the sake of LOVE...

GOD's LOVE.

Because of GOD's deep love for me, I want to live a sold out life for HIM, showing HIM how much I love HIM in return!

So life is really all about...

Loving GOD

And

Loving People!

" For GOD so LOVED the world (YOU) that HE gave HIS one and only Son,
that whoever believes in HIM shall not perish but have everlasting life.
For GOD did not send HIS Son into the world to judge the world (YOU),
but to save the world (YOU) through HIM (JESUS)."
( John 3:16-17 )

I've Had Open Heart Transplant Surgery!

Thu, 19 May 2011 00:00:00 GMT

I've Had an Open-Heart Transplant Surgery!

As you know...or may not know, I have been helping out raising money for children/adults who are in need of open-heart transplant surgeries at Penang Adventist Hospital here in Penang, Malaysia(See blog:"GOD Heals, We Help...for more details)for my final month of ministry before I come home. And during this time, I've been thinking to myself about how excited I am about trying to raise as much money as we can for these children/adults who are need of these open-heart transplant surgeries! Then it hit me...GOD gave me a revelation concerning this! And thatrevelationis...just as the doctors who perform these open-heart transplant surgeries on these children/adults...that's what GOD has been performing on me for the last 11 months on this World Race. HE has been performing open-heart transplant surgery on me....changing me from the inside-out...WOW!

Some of the ways that GOD has performed this surgery on and in my heart is as follows:

Removing my "in the BOX" heart mentality of HIM (not limiting HIM in what HE can do)...so HE can be in the center of my heart & my life in all I do ;

Carving out pride, self-righteousness & legalism...those of which that have caused me to try to
become the so called "perfect" Christian;

Fusing thankfulness into my heart...not waiting until there is something to be thankful for...
thank you GOD for my new heart J;

Puncturing my heart with compassion for the needy, poor, orphans and the lost;

Incisioning a deeper desire into my heart to take time to be still, to be with HIM & to listen to HIM
more;

Injecting into my heart a joy to serve HIM & to serve others;

Recovering my heart to love HIM more & to love people more....unconditionally
(Not to judge, but to love);

Discharging a passion within my heart to see HIS will be done in order to see HIS Kingdom come!

So...don't be surprised when I get home. You may recognize me by my outward physical appearance, but probably not by the inward physical appearance within my heart. GOD has performed an open-heart transplant surgery on me and has given me a new & healthier heart...thank you GOD!

"I (GOD) will give you a new heart and put a new spirit within you; and I (GOD) will remove the heart of stone from your flesh and give you a heart of flesh."

(Ezekiel 36:26)

And I'm not so foolish to think that just because GOD has given me a new heart during these last 11 months, that it won't get infected or may fail from time to time. But if this does happen, then I know HE will be my healer because I know that GOD wants me to have a heart like HIS... and so do I! Therefore, I come in agreement with and am thankful for the promise of
HIS Word...

"For I am confident of this very thing, that HE (GOD) who began a good work in you (me) will perfect it until the day of CHRIST JESUS."

(Philippians. 1:6)

So, my question(s) to you is...

Will you allow GOD to do an open-heart transplant surgery on you? And will you let HIM do whatever it takes to bring healing to your heart to let it become more like HIS?

If so, you will be glad you did...

So you too can have a healthy, lively & growing Heart for JESUS!"

Thank you GOD that " in CHRIST you have made me complete"...

for when "I was dead in my sins and in the uncircumcision of my flesh,
YOU made me alive with CHRIST

forgiving me of all my sins"...amen!

(Colossians 2:10, 13)

GOD Heals, We Help...

Thu, 12 May 2011 00:00:00 GMT

GOD Heals, We Help...

Blog # "22"

After a 20 hour train ride and a short 15 minute ferry ride, I finally arrived on the island of Pinang (Penang), Malaysia safely and have been getting settled into our place of temporary living & getting involved in our selected ministries.

So far this month I have really enjoyed Malaysia which is located right in the heart of South East Asia. And what makes Malaysia so unique as a country is it's multi-racial & multi-cultural diversity that consists of Malays, Chinese, Indonesian and Indian. I am fascinated by all the different races and how everyone gets along so well. I have been so encouraged & blessed by how nice everyone is here!

This month my fellow World Racers & I have the privilege to come along side and help with YWAM (Youth With A Mission) in many different ways such as...

(1) Kawan: helping the homeless, sharing GOD's word and participating in evening outreaches involving prayer and sharing the love of JESUS;

(2) PenHop: time of worship & prayer;

(3) Door of Hope: teaching & having fun with kids; and

(4) Adventist Hospital: helping fundraising money for children & adults who can't afford open-heart surgeries.

Can you guess which ministry I chose to help with this month?

My personal mind-set & motto each day has been... " One ringgit is better than None-ringgit." ;) And we have almost met this challenge every day! So, the ultimate goal for our team is to try to raise 25,000-30,000 ringgit before we are done volunteering here at Penang Adventist Hospital on May 22nd. I know that's it's possible...with your diligent prayers & with GOD on our side!

Who knew volunteering to help FUN-d-raise could be so much FUN!!

I am serving with a team of 5 other World Racers at Pinang (Penang) Adventist Hospital to help fundraise money for children/adults who need open-heart surgeries.

Penang Adventist Hospital performs about 40 open-heart surgeries a year and it costs between 25,000-40,000 ringgit (8,300-13,300 USD). Each day our challenge was to raise 1,000 ringgit (330 USD) and if we accomplished this goal, we would celebrate with pizza at the end of the week, which was provided by the Development Department.

With this being the final month of my trip...I was reminded from my journal entry from last May, 2010 from WR training camp that "whatever I put into this, is what I will get out of it." So, I am trying to apply this so I can get everything out of it that GOD wants me to for my last month of ministry & with the remaining time I have on this race.

I have been commuting every day to & from the hospital by bus, which has been great because I have used this time to talk to GOD asking for divine appointments & committing my day to HIM.

Blake & I with Devi who we had the priviledge to have lunch & pray with.

In closing, I have been humbled and thankful for the opportunity I have in order to help fundraise money for children/adults who need open-heart surgeries. But at the same time, I have enjoyed & been blessed by the opportunity to help, to reach out, to pray with/for & to build meaningful relationships with the patients & their family members, with the faculty and with the staff here at Penang Adventist Hospital.
Who would of guessed that I would be spending my last month helping at a hospital, considering I use to work at one for over 3 years, before I left on my trip for 11 months?!
GOD is so good!

Separating the MEN from the boys...MANistry

Tue, 19 Apr 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Separating the MEN from the boys..."MAN"istry

There is such a difference between being in China and now being in Baan Ton Manuang, Thailand. In China I was freezing and now in Thailand I'm sweating to death...not to mention the humidity which makes it a lot worse! But none the less, I am excited about this month and looking forward to hanging out with just the men on our squad! My teammate, Will, couldn't have said it better in the following paragraphs concerning this...

"This is a month where the men leave the women behind to pursue a month on their own. It is

We will pour into one-another, challenge one another, break one another, and build one another up. We will dig into the WORD, and bow down in prayer in hopes to find who GOD says we are. This is a month bound to be a month with more than just planting cassava, belching and farting. It has to be a month with more! We want more. We want more love, more knowledge, more depth, more of HIM, and more of who GOD says we are.

So, who are we? What is a Man of GOD? We have been saying for the last 10 months that we are "men of GOD", but what does that mean? What is a man of GOD? Who GOD says we are is different for each of us, walking as a man of GOD might look different for each of the 21 of us, but we are all men of GOD and we are called to be something! We are all in a walk. We are all in different places and may not fill this yet, but we are all called to rise up as men of GOD. We will strive for success and push ourselves to become the men that we are called to be."

So, the question this month for us men is...

"what is a MAN of GOD?"

And the answer to this question is...

A "Man of GOD" is:

Sincere, honest, and doesn't hide his flaws.

Holy, set apart, different from the world.

Contrite, filled with remorse for the wrongs he's committed.

A provider, one that satisfies the need both physically and spiritually for those around him.

A supporter, one who lifts up or holds up his family and his friends.

A rock, a firm foundation that people can count on. He is sturdy, and unbreakable...devoted & committed.

Not controlled by fear.

A teacher and a student.

Confident.

Bold to pursue.

Willing to admit pride and walk in humbleness.

Full of integrity...His "yes" is "yes" and his "no" is "no".

Servant.

These are just some of the qualities of what a man of GOD is and looks like. And I'm sure there are many other qualities to go along with these, but these are what GOD has been teaching me this month. I eagerly desire to become the man of GOD that HE desires me to be and I believe HE has started me on the right path to become the man of GOD that HE desires me to be!

Finding My...

Tue, 19 Apr 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Finding My...

This month for me has been hot, hard & long. And honestly, I would of preferred to be somewhere else doing something different, but I am thankful that GOD's ways & plans are perfect (Isaiah 55:11). GOD met me where I was at and taught me some important things. Such things as...

Finding my place as a servant...What it looks like to be a servant. Throughout this entire month, I had the opportunity to plant, cut & harvest tapioca. Along with this, I had the opportunity to collect, bag & spread goat poop in the fields. It's a dirty job, but someone had to do it... "22" guys to be exact! In the midst of our daily work, I also was presented with opportunities to help prep & clean for daily meals in order to feed the other guys. I realized serving is hard and that my attitude wasn't always willing to do it with a servant's heart. But my heart's desire is to have the same mind, attitude & heart that JESUS had about serving..."the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give HIS life a ransom for many" (Matthew 20:28).

Ultimately, I want to truly live out the words of the Apostle Paul in 1 Cor.10:31:

"So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of GOD"

Finding my place & voice from GOD...In the beginning of the World Race, I thought I had a lot to offer, especially in the role of a leader. Even though, I thought I would have been picked as a team leader to oversee & lead a team, I really didn't want to be one because I didn't want to miss out on the total experiences throughout the Race. Looking back now... 10 months later, GOD didn't call me to be a team leader, but HE did call me to be a silent leader. One who would model & exemplify, w/out necessarily speaking through words, but through my actions. GOD revealed to me that this was my primary role on this Race. Being a leader doesn't necessarily mean being up front giving orders, commands or directions, but one that is leading through his actions. And as the saying goes..."Actions speak louder than words." This has been the case for me and how GOD has truly allowed me to find my voice in order to raise me up as a true leader for HIM and to advance & build HIS Kingdom.

Finding my Definition from GOD...Probably the most pivotal thing that GOD showed me this month from my past is about my identity in HIM. Since I became a Christian, I have been taught what it looks like to be a Christian, but not what it looks like to truly live like a Christian. And I think I contribute this to trying to find my identity as a Christian in what I did (performance based) & what others would say or think about me instead of what or who GOD says about me in HIS Word (Bible). This is huge... I can't believe I have been a Christian for fourteen years now and GOD is just revealing this to me! This is just another part of me that GOD is stripping away so I can truly be redefined only by HIM in order to become more like HIM.

Walking with GOD...Below is a picture of a road that GOD and I would walk together and talk in the evenings. This is where I enjoyed sharing with HIM & HIM with me about the things He taught me this month.

When is the last time you went on a walk to talk to/with GOD?

C.H.I.N.A. w/ Pics

Tue, 12 Apr 2011 00:00:00 GMT

C.H.I.N.A.

I'm happy to share with you that I made it in and out of China safely.

Just to fill you in and to give you an idea of what China is like. Read the following:

China... is a communist country.

China... is a closed country.

In China...M's (Missionaries) talk in code.

In China...it is risky to spread the gospel.

In China...house churches are illegal and Christians live in fear.

Our month in China was cold both physically & spiritually.

GOD called our contact, as well as, my team & I not to live in fear. And as a result, we lived out our faith, rebuked fear and shared CHRIST in the following ways ...

Chinese students who attended surrounding
universities were our primary focus and ministry.
Just about every evening, my team & I went to
English corners to meet & and help Chinese
students practice speaking English.;

Helped pass out church flyers inviting people to
church & passed out gospel pamphlets on doors in
near by apartments;

In Sunday school & Wednesday services throughout
the week, we helped teach & shared personal
testimonies;

Not only did we help teach Chinese students how to
speak English....but my team and I had
weekend parties with food, fun & sharing the love of
JESUS. Praise GOD...five of these Chinese
students gave their lives to CHRIST!

And last, but not least, my team & I had the privilege
to serve alongside, to encourage and to be
encouraged by our contacts, Jake & Steph. I really
learned first hand from them about what true
boldness looks like in the face of fear.

What a joy of thankfulness I have within my heart & my spirit to be used by GOD in such small, but powerful ways this month! China will never be the same...CHRIST's mark of love has been left. And may GOD receive all the glory for this!

Puerto Galera

Tue, 1 Mar 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Puerto Galera

So here I am in the month of March already...wow! As I shared with you in my first blog (Philippino Pet Monkey) for the month of February... it was going to be a month with so many opportunities to help those on Puerto Galera Island. So I would like to share with you some of these opportunities...not so much with words, but through pictures. My hearts desire is that you will feel as if you were part of my experience for the remaining time here in the Philippines...enjoy!

This two-story building is where we attended and participated in Wednesday & Sunday services and where we played basketball.

This is land which we were clearing out in order to prepare for future building(s) in the near future...possibly for a school.

This is the beach where we built relationships and shared/showed
Love of CHRIST.

This is my muslim friend James, whom I had the opportunity to share JESUS with. He was trying to sell me a cross, but it still had JESUS on it, but it gave me the opportunity to share with him why JESUS shouldn't be on the cross at all. And that was because CHRIST was crucified, buried in the tomb and three days later rose from the grave to over come & forgive us of our sin. And because of this HE overcame death and went up to heaven to prepare a place for all who accept HIM by faith. Therefore, HE is no longer dead but alive! A couple days later, James showed up with a couple of crosses w/out JESUS on them...encouraging me that he believed & understood what I had shared with him!

This is my dear muslim friend Abdul, whom I had the privilege to share JESUS with and hang out with a lot. He came to accept CHRIST and I was humbled to play a small part in this. I will truly miss him, but will one day look forward to be reunited with him in Heaven!

Within the community we stayed at...there were a lot of kids that we had the chance to play & hang out with...very tiring, but lots of fun!

One of the many ways to connect with the community was to help build a place where everyone could come and hang out. Who knew we could do so with some palm trees and a little paint!

Besides reaching out to the community within where we lived, we also had the opportunity to visit, encouraged & pray with those Christians outside of Aninuan Church. One such person was a pastor of another church. He had some sort of chronic disease and so Jake, Jim and myself prayed for & over him. We found out the next day that he wasn't having any more pain and that he was totally healed...wow!

I leave you with a group of all of us celebrating with each other of what GOD did through us this month...glory be to HIM!

This is a small glimpse allowing you to look in to the window of what I had the blessing to be a part of this month. I hope you are encouraged, just as I am! I also wanted to share with you that for the last two weeks of February, I was and am still not doing well spiritually...I felt and feel very unmotivated and dry in my walk with GOD. I don't know what else to tell you about this, other than that this is only for a season, which I believe GOD is preparing me to go deeper with HIM. And this may also be a part of preparation for China this month which we will be leaving this Saturday, March 5th. And Speaking of China, I want to share with you that for the rest of this month our whole squad is on an internet fast. This is for the respect & safety of our contacts that we will be serving & working with this month. On our end, there is nothing to be worried about, in regards to our safety, etc. In closing, you will not here from me until the beginning of April. Remember...no news is good news! Continue to keep me and my squad in your prayers...GOD is going to use us mightily in China...to HIM be all the glory!

Love,

Derek

What's LOVE Got to Do with It ?

Mon, 14 Feb 2011 00:00:00 GMT

What's LOVE Got to Do with It ?

Since it is the month of February and the primary focus for this month is on Valentine's Day I thought I would write a blog about

Everyone longs to give themselves to someone: to have a deep, meaningful relationship with another, to be loved thoroughly and exclusively. But this is not possible until you are satisfied, fulfilled and content with being loved by GOD alone. Giving yourself totally and unreservedly to HIM in order to have an intensely personal and unique relationship with HIM and only in HIM alone.

GOD is love.

(1John 4:8)

GOD LOVES YOU...until you discover that only in HIS love is your satisfaction to be found, you will not be capable of the perfect human relationship that GOD has planned for you. You will never be united with another until you are united with HIM; exclusive of anyone or anything else, exclusive of any other desires or longings. Stop wishing...just keep loving GOD...expecting the greatest things. Keep listening and learning the things HE tells you.

This is how GOD showed HIS love among us: HE sent HIS one and only Son into the world that we might live through HIM.

(1 John 4:9)

Don't be anxious, don't worry, don't look around at the things others have or what GOD has given them. Don't look at the things you think you want. You just keep looking to HIM, for you will miss what HE wants to show you. When you are ready...HE will surprise you with a love more wonderful than you would ever have dreamed of...with HIMSELF through HIS Son JESUS CHRIST! Until you are satisfied exclusively with GOD and the life HE has prepared for you...you will not be able to experience the love that exemplifies your relationship with HIM...which is a perfect love.

This is love: not that we loved GOD, but that HE loved us and sent HIS Son as an atoning for sacrifice for sins.

(1 John 4:10)

GOD wants you to have this wonderful love. And HE wants you to see in the flesh a picture of your relationship with HIMand to enjoy materially and concretely the everlasting union of beauty, perfection and love that HE offers you with HIMSELF.
If GOD lives in us and HIS love is made complete in us.
(1 John 4:12b)

Finally, know that when you long for another person, possession or position...you are experiencing the same yearning that GOD has towards you at that same moment. Believe it, receive it...be satisfied...know that you are loved immensely by GOD!

For GOD so loved YOU that HE gave HIS one and only Son, that whoever believes in HIM shall not perish but have eternal life.

(John 3:16)

My question to you is "Are you completely filled with GOD's love?" If not, HE offers HIS love through asking, believing and placing your faith in HIS one and only Son JESUS CHRIST. No human love can fill that void or hole within your heart that you have been longing for in your life.

The goal of our instruction is love, which comes from a pure heart and a good conscience and a sincere faith.

(1 Timothy 1:5)

I have experienced GOD's unconditional love since I was 22 years old and HIS love has satisfied (and continues to satisfy me) me in every heartbeat of my life. And so can you... just by asking GOD to receive HIS love that HE has for you by asking, believing and placing your faith in JESUS CHRIST in the following prayer...

Dear GOD...I know that you created me to have a personal relationship with you and I want to know you personally. I know that I am a sinner and that my sin separates me from you, but I believe you sent your one & only son JESUS CHRIST to die for me in order to forgive me of my sins because you love me so much. I believe HE died on the cross, was buried and rose three days later and is now up in heaven preparing a place for me to be with You. JESUS, I ask you to be my Savior & my Lord so I can live for you because you died for me. Thank you JESUS & thank you GOD for forgiving me of all my sins and for giving me new meaning & purpose in my life-amen!

(**Please take time to read my blog entitled: "Purpose & Meaning of Life" for a more detailed explanation of what a loving relationship with GOD means and looks like...thanks!**)

So...What's LOVE Got to Do with It ?...

EVERYTHING...

Because GOD is LOVE

And HE LOVES

YOU!

Let me close by leaving you with the following words of encouragement:

GOD is a GOD who desires and longs to have a personal relationship with each one of us as HIS most cherished and loved creation!

"Thank you Heavenly FATHER for the gift of your

Son JESUS CHRIST...it's because of HIM that you revealed your love to me and brought me back into a personal & loving relationship with you. It's not what I do for you, but who I am in YOU. And it's because of your love for me that I can love YOU and love others in return regardless of whether or not they love me in return. Your love is not conditional but unconditional and it's not because I'm lovable, but because it's your nature and that YOU ARE LOVE! I LOVE YOU FATHER because YOU first loved me. I'm so grateful and so thankful... may my life reflect my love for you in return. In JESUS' loving name...Amen."

Wishing all of you...my friends, family, Rachel and everyone else a Happy Valentine's Day...letting you know that I thank GOD for each and every one of you & that YOU ARE LOVED more than you realize or know!!

" LOVE is patient, LOVE is kind. It is not jealous, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. LOVE does not delight in evil but rejoices in truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perserveres. LOVE never fails...now these three remain: faith, hope and LOVE. But the greatest of these is LOVE."

( 1 Corinthians 13:4-8a,13 )

HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY !

Philippino Pet Monkey...

Sat, 5 Feb 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Philippino Pet Monkey...

My team & I arrived safely to the Philippines...Manila to be exact, where there is about 18 million people. It's very crowded, very polluted and very noisy, but the needs are many. We ended up staying for a couple days then we were off to Puerto Galera on a boat ride, which is on the beautiful island of Mindoro here in the Philippines.

We were met by a missionary & humble man named Alex who took & traveled with us to our place of ministry which was Puerta Galera Island to meet a local pastor named Al who has a heart for the Filipinos and pastors' a church of over 600 on this island. The name of the church is called Aninuan Christian Church.When we arrived at the pastor's house my teammates and I were greeted by a monkey named Moi-Moi (Moy-Moy) . He was pretty intimating at first, but he has grown on us and we enjoy hanging (hee-hee) out with him showing him affection & love.

Pretty cool we have Moi-Moi for a pet monkey for this month!

Ok...enough monkeying around (ha-ha) and on to other important things to share with you.

Alex's testimony of how GOD is using him is pretty encouraging and amazing. He started a non-profit organization called Threads of Hope, Inc. where He empowers and helps many poor families on the island who flock to the popular vacation destinations, hoping to cash in on money being spent by wealthy tourists. Some of these families, upon realizing that they still cannot generate enough income by vending on the beaches, make the desperate choice to sell their children into prostitution.

In Alex's own words..."If we can find a large enough market for these bracelets, we can help bring back a sense of dignity to people who are clinging to a thread of hope. It is not my intention to profit from the sale of these bracelets, but to return the proceeds by providing schooling, medical care and nutrition to those that don't have the resources to do it on their own and to provide a steady and honorable income to struggling families."

Pastor Al, I and Alex

And I have personally met & seen those that it has helped, impacted and changed lives for the better! Also, it has helped build Aninuan Christian Church, which includes a top level full basketball court...so awesome! But most importantly, to impact many for CHRIST and GOD's Kingdom!

Would you like to help by helping Threads of Hope, Inc. in order to help more people by buying or selling these bracelets? If so, know that you can help to bring an end to the tragic abuses that are a reality for many children & families here in the Philippines by bringing hope to the hungry, poor and abused! If so, please go to Threads of Hope, Inc. at WWW.THREADSOFHOPE.COM.PH and do your part as GOD leads you to help...thanks!

This month is going to be a healthy month with so many opportunities to help those on Puerto Galera Island. Variety of opportunities such as participating in Aninuan Christian Church services, encouraging & hanging out with the local Christian believers, sharing at the beach, playing basketball & helping with a basketball tournament, clearing land in order to build on for future buildings, hanging out & loving on Moi-Moi (somebody needs to do it...he needs to be loved too ;) ) helping to make the Thread of Hope bracelets and so many other things that I can't think of right now...the opportunities are endless!

GOD is so good!

Bloom Where You Are Planted

Tue, 18 Jan 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Bloom Where Your Planted

Have you ever thought about why you are where you are now? Or more importantly, why GOD has you where you are now? I ask you these questions because these are questions I have asked myself in the past and recently.

So this month was an ATL (Ask The LORD) month for my team (A-Team Remix) and I. Basically, this meant that we all prayed and asked GOD to show/reveal to us where HE wanted us to go and be this month. And the result of GOD's leading was that HE brought us to Johannesburg (Jo'Burg), South Africa to a hostel serving & sharing the love of JESUS CHRIST.

In my previous blog entitled "Divine Appointments in Jo'Burg" I shared with you about a friend I met named Johannes, who was staying at the hostel whom I had the opportunity to share with him that GOD created and loves him because HE wants a personal relationship with him. Below is a Facebook message that I received from Johannes which I wanted to share with you:

Hi Derek!

It is good to hear from you! I hope you all are doing fine down there in Jo'burg, I'm already missing the relaxed hostel atmosphere. I've already moved into my room here in Windhoek and am happy to be back.

I've been wanting to write you before getting your message, since I had an interesting encounter during my bus ride. There was a girl of my age sitting next to me and after a while we started talking. She was reading the bible and I told her about the group of you. She was fascinated of the idea of someone going around the world to share the message of God. I also showed here the little leaflet you gave me and she invited me to her church.

I don't know yet what to make out of it, but actually this girl was the second person ever talking to me about building a relationship with God (the first ones were you guys). Back home religion had always been about going to church and praying and not much beyond that. So in whatever way one wants to interpret this, God certainly seems to follow me on my trip through Africa ...an interesting thought.

It was really nice meeting you guys, I had a good time.
Say hi to the others, Johannes

I share this with you humbly and not boastfully, but "Let him who boasts, boast in the LORD" (1 Corinthians 1:31) because I truly believe that GOD purposely planted me & my team to share HIS truth & love with Johannes here at the hostel in Jo'burg, South Africa. And also to encourage you to be faithful where GOD has you planted you where you are now. I believe that HE has specifically planted you exactly where He has you now because HE wants you there. I don't believe that it is by accident, coincidence, or by chance, that GOD has you & I where we are at now in our lives. I believe that GOD has us where we are now for HIS divine placement, purpose and perfect plan."In his heart a man plans his course, but the LORD determines his steps" (Proverbs 16:9). "A man's steps are directed by the LORD. How then can anyone understand his own way?" (Proverbs 20:24).

In closing, my challenge to all of us is to...

"Bloom where GOD has planted You."

PS...In case I don't get the chance to write/blog you again this month, I wanted to share with you that our P-Squad will be reunited again (after being apart for 2 months) on the 26^th of this month for a couple of days. And then we will be flying on the 28th to Asia...off to the Philippines for our 8^th month of the WR! Your prayers are needed and know they are making an impact in so many peoples lives for GOD's eternal Kingdom...thanks!

Divine Appointments in Jo'Berg

Thu, 13 Jan 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Divine Appointments in Jo'Burg

Johannesburg greetings...hoping the New Year has started off good for you! It has definitely been a good one for me so far. It was pretty uneventful, but relaxing. I actually brought the New Year in by being able totalk to my girlfriend, Rachel, which was my high-lite!

As you may know already (or may not know), but my team and I felt GOD leading us back to Johannesburg, South Africa for our last month of ministry. So...we have been here at a hostel helping out, serving and ministering in whatever ways that GOD has been leading us to. We have been here at this hostel for about two weeks now, but have seen GOD's hand moving by opening up the door for many divine appointments. Divine appointments such as...showing & sharing the love of JESUS and my testimony with John, Johannes (residents at hostel) and Steve (hostel owner), providing a temporary home church called "His People Church": A multi-cultural church (which is only 15 minutes walking distance from the hostel), allowing us to meet Mark (youth pastor) and his family who have reached out and cared for us through many acts of service (lunch invitation, driving us around to go food shopping, the mall, sight-seeing, etc.), and ministering to & caring for other hostel residents.

I thank GOD for giving my team and I so many opportunities so far this month! I would like to share just a couple of these divine appointments that HE has given to us with you briefly.

First divine appointment... is bringing us back here to this hostel to be able to help out by passing out flyers to let people know about the hostel and helping by stenciling and painting designs to create a more inviting and welcoming atmosphere. Check it out...

For me it has been really comforting and relaxing, but overall, it also been a great opportunity to meet and talk to other people who are staying here at the hostel.

Second divine appointment...is meeting John...

Who is from New York and is studying abroad here in South Africa. He arrived here at the hostel a couple days after we (A-Team Remix) did. He fits in well within out group and we often joke around with him and others that he is the eighth member within our team J. He is a very outgoing and funny guy. John and I have had some really good conversations, which I have had the opportunity to share the love of CHRIST and to share GOD's personal testimony of my life with him as well. John has also been coming to our morning team prayer and went to church with us this passed Sunday. I believe his heart is very open and is receptive to GOD.

And the third divine appointment that I am going to share with you is about...while at His People Church this passed Sunday (1/9), there was a sister in CHRIST who was sharing and prophesying about a person who was handi-capped that had a walker in order to assist him in walking. And she shared that she had not seen this person in church within the service, etc. So she shared and challenged all of us within the congregation to be aware of this person in the days and week to come. This is where it gets so cool! So after the service ended and we finished hanging out...my team, John and I, on our walk back to the hostel decided to stop by the grocery store. And while getting ready to walk into the store(s), James, John and I noticed & walked by this man who asked for food and had a walker. Not thinking anything of it, until John says to me, "We should pray for this guy." And Irespond by saying, "Ok, let's go pray for him." Then James walks passed John & I and says, "We need to pray for him because he is the guy that the women spoke to us about in the service." So James, John and I all walk over to this guy, introduce ourselves, asked him his name and asked him if we could pray for him...for comfort and healing.

Long story short, we all prayed for this man named Luke, bought some food for him and lastly, invited him to come to His People Church next Sunday (1/16). Luke shared with me that he has been there before so it is my hope and prayer that he does join us! GOD is so good and HE never seizes to amaze me!

Above are just some of the divine appointments that GOD has given my team and I so far this month. Please pray for more opportunities and that GOD would continue to work through HIS Holy Spirit, HIS Word and through myself and the rest of the A-Team Remix. We definitely are suppose to be here this month for ATL (Ask The LORD) which GOD has confirmed by the many divine appointments that HE has given to us so far. I am so humbled and thankful to be HIS witness (Acts 1:8), HIS Ambassador (2 Cor.5:20) and to share/show HIS love (1 John 4:16-17). I Am so excited to see how and what GOD is going to continue to do the rest of this month...please continue to pray diligently for us!

Know that I am so thankful for all your prayers and that
"the prayer of the righteous man is powerful and effective"
(James 5:16b).

I would like to leave you with a challenge for this New Year of 2011...Dare to believe that what you read in the Bible is also for you today. Deliver and be intentional in sharing & showing GOD's love. Disciple someone in the basics (start with one person for the year). Do something you haven't done before in regards to your time spent with GOD ( i.e. journal, take a walk with GOD, etc.).

"No eye has seen,
no ear has heard,
no mind has conceived,

what GOD has prepared for those who love HIM."
(1 Corinthians 2:9)

P-Squad needs your HELP...

Thu, 6 Jan 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Happy New Year to my wonderful friends, family, and supporters...

I hope you had an amazing Christmas and New Years back home! Spending this holiday season in Africa has been wonderful in many ways, and I thank you all for helping me get here!

However, there are some people on my squad that are still needing help to continue on this journey with us. Our final deadline for funding is coming up very soon!!   Even after an extension we only have 10 days left, until January 15, when everyone needs to be funded.   If our squad does not have all the financial support in by this time then our teammates and squad mates will be headed home in less than two weeks. This is because right now back in the states they are having to purchase our plane tickets to Asia and also back home in late May/early June, and without being fully supported they can not do this!

One thing I have learned on the world race is BE REAL. Be upfront with your needs, it never hurts to ask and absolutely NEVER hurts to have more people praying for your needs. So here is the truth, the real facts of what my squad still needs. Please pray for our financial needs right now and if the Lord leads you to support one of these amazing people below, their websites are below. Just go to their site and click on the left hand side, the support me tab!

Thank you all for how much you have already given to support me and so many others on this squad. It has been AMAZING to see everyone rallying behind us in the States while we are way out here in Africa! We can't thank you enough!! We hope you have a happy New Year!   We love you! -P Squad

Alicia Hodges   $3,564                     aliciahodges.theworldrace.org
Lauren Newborn   $2,400                laurennewborn.theworldrace.org
Melissa Ventura   $2245                   melissaventura.theworldrace.org
Brittany Smith $1,739                      brittanysmith.theworldrace.org
Robin Jarrett   $1,357                        robinjarett.theworldrace.org
Samantha Moor   $1,000                   samanthamoor.theworldrace.org
Shannon Taylor   $770                      shannontaylor.theworldrace.org
Krystel Kemper   $759                      krystelkemper.theworldrace.org
Sara Hansen   $669                          sarahansen.theworldrace.org
Carrie Miranda   $600                        carriemiranda.theworldrace.org
Kameron Kissinger   $480                 kameronkissinger.theworldrace.org
Amanda Burkett    $259                     amandaburkett.theworldrace.org
Thomas Sullivan   $205                     thomassullivan.theworldrace.org
Stephanie Woody   $175                   stephaniewoody.theworldrace.org
Alexandra Squyres   $175                 alexandrasquyres.theworldrace.org

If you can help in any way, that would be great and may GOD bless you richly in return!

LOVE- Derek

My True Identity...

Tue, 28 Dec 2010 00:00:00 GMT

My True Identity...

Is IN CHRIST and in HIM alone;

IN CHRIST I am a new creation...the old is gone the new has come-2 Corinthians 5:17;

IN CHRIST...I am a child of GOD-John 1:12;

IN CHRIST...GOD is my FATHER and I am HIS adopted son-Romans 8:15 & Galatians 4:6;

IN CHRIST...I am fearfully and wonderfully made-Psalm 139:14;

IN CHRIST...I am GOD's friend-John 15:15;

IN CHRIST...I am GOD's temple-1 Corinthians 3:16;

IN CHRIST...I am royalty and a holy priesthood-1 Peter 2:5,9;

IN CHRIST...I am a sinner that is declared a saint-1 Corinthians 1:2, Ephesians 1:1 & Psalm 85:8;

IN CHRIST...I am GOD's ambassador-2 Corinthians 5:20;

IN CHRIST...I am a citizen of Heaven-Philippians 3:20;

IN CHRIST...I am righteous and holy-Ephesians 4:24;

IN CHRIST...I am learning each day to live as more than a conqueror and a victorious life
Romans 8:37 & 1 Corinthians 15:57;

IN CHRIST...I was bought with a price, therefore,I belong to GOD-
1 Corinthians 6:20

IN CHRIST...GOD is revealing and teaching me on this World Race...believing in HIS promises because I am what I am by HIS grace!
1 Corinthians 15:10

I am definitely finding my true identity in who GOD says I am and it is life changing from the inside out! But my question to you is, who or what are you finding your true identity in...yourself, other people, your possessions or riches, this world or GOD?

Update:

I am currently camping in Lilongwe, Malawi at a campsite until Wednesday, Dec.29^th. Then leaving early Wednesday morning on a bus for roughly 30 hours or so to Johannesburg in South Africa. Will be in Johannesberg for the month January and for our month of ministry staying and helping at a hostile.

Please continue to pray for safe travels and for the many divine appointments and opportunities to share & show the love of JESUS. I am continually humbled and thankful for all your prayers and support...GOD bless you! Until my next blog, be encouraged and know that I miss and love you!

GOD's victorious son,

Derek

PS...Below is my physical mailing address where I will be staying for the month of January, if you would like to/need to send me something.If you do want to send me something please send it the first week of January and no later. It will take 2-3 weeks to deliver it to me-thanks! Please send it to:

Derek C. Begin

Rosebank Lodge and Backpacker Group
219 Jan Smuts Avenue

Parktown North

Johannesburg

Gauteng

2193 South Africa

"Joy to the World"...now with pictures

Mon, 13 Dec 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Joy to the World...

I find it hard to believe that it's already December, that I'm in Africa serving GOD and that I'm half way done with my WR trip!

From my last blog I shared with you that I was having debrief and meeting up with the rest of my squad. We met for five days in Lilongwe, Malawi at Mabuya Camp. It was a refreshing time to rest, relax, hang out, and encourage one another and to worship GOD. This is also where I shared my 36^th birthday (Dec. 6^th) with my P-Squad family...I definitely felt loved. Check out the video below that was made for me by my fellow teammates Jon & Cinthia for my birthday-enjoy!

After finishing debrief, my team called the "A-Team Remix" and Team "MOR3" traveled to Dzuwa (See-Wa), Malawi. Upon arriving in Dzuwa, GOD welcomed us with a beautiful sunset...thank you GOD!

My teammates and I are definitely in the "bush of Africa". Living in the middle of nowhere...no internet, no electricity (only by solar power), etc. Living in houses with many bugs, candle lights, and each other (13 total). It could be worse, but I'm thankful that we have the privilege to serve with Joy to the World Ministries. Ministry so far has consisted of helping cook and feed children within the village, planting trees, planting crops, visiting villages and sharing the love of CHRIST, attending four (4) hour church services and lastly, comforting, caring for and loving on one another within our teams.

As for me personally this month, I have found myself longing more for GOD, to be filled more with HIS love and the Holy Spirit. I belive this happened with my heart and my life because while at debrief at one of our worship and teaching sessions, there was an invitation given to everyone who wanted MORE of GOD to come forth to be prayed for and prayed over. And without hesitancy, I got up from my chair, got in line and waited with expectancy and excitement to be prayed for and to be prayed over!

When my turn finally came, I was prayed for and prayed over and within minutes, I found myself speaking in tongues, which I have never done before. I have prayed and asked GOD for it before, but I figured it was a spiritual gift that GOD gave to only certain Christians...boy was I wrong! For GOD says for everyone "who desires earnestly spiritual gifts" (1 Cor. 14:1). I have learned that speaking in tongues is not only a spiritual gift given by GOD, but most importantly, it "is not speaking to men but to GOD; for no one understands, but in his spirit he speak mysteries." "One who speaks in a tongue edifies himself" (1 Cor.14:2, 4). As a result, I am so thankful that GOD has given me this spiritual gift of speaking in tongues. I realize that HE has done so to build me up in HIM and to bring me deeper in my loving relationship with HIM.

Within the last month or so, I have had an increased desire to fall MORE in love with GOD, to be filled MORE with HIS love, to filled MORE with the Holy Spirit, to share MORE of HIS love with others and to be MORE of HIS love to everyone. To sum it up...I want MORE of GOD!

The following are some scriptures that GOD has been speaking to me about:

+ 1 Cor. 13:1-8; + Matthew 5:8; + 1 Timothy 1:5; + Romans 12:9-10;+ Romans 15:7 and + Galatians 5:16

GOD is definitely bringing me to a new level and deeper place with HIM. It's a good place to be and I'm so thankful!

GLORY BE TO GOD!

"May you GOD continue to increase in my life and may I continue to decrease in my life."

(John 3:30)

PS...

I don't know if I will be able to write another blog, etc. so I want to leave you with Christmas wishes from The A-Team Remix Family to you and your family.

MERRY CHRISTMAS!!

With

Love,

Derek

Purpose & Meaning of Life

Mon, 29 Nov 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Purpose & Meaning of Life

In my previous blog entitled, Malawi, Moving, and Missing..., I shared with you...

" I am very humbled to be used to share GOD's love with so many, but thankful to be part of GOD's redeeming plan for all men. Not only am I humbled and thankful to represent GOD's truth and love, but I am encouraged that HE is building my courage and boldness in sharing about HIM with others."

So I thought for my second blog that I would write for this month, I would share more in detail with you about what I have been sharing with so many Africans here in Mzuzu and with many others throughout my trip. And that is...

thePurpose&Meaningof each one of our lives.

This is a question that many people have pondered and asked in life, which I am going to try my best to clearly share the answer with you by using scripture...GOD's Holy Word.

In the gospel of John, JESUS Himself promises... "I have came that they ( you & I ) may have life and have it abundantly."Well, we must ask ourselves, "What is the abundant life that HE is offering?" But before we can answer this question...we must believe that GOD exists and that HE is the Creator of all things, including us. In the first book of the Bible in Genesis 1:1 it says, "In the beginning GOD created the heavens and the earth." And in Genesis 1:27 it says, "GOD created man in HIS own image, in the image of GOD HE created him; male and female HE created them." Also in book of Colossians 1:16-17 it says, "For by HIM (GOD) all things were created in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities, all things were created BY HIM and FOR HIM. HE is before all things, and in HIM all things hold together."

So, now that we know that GOD is our creator and that HE is the one that created us...let's go back to our original question: "What is the PURPOSE and MEANING of our lives?"(Or what is this "Abundant Life that JESUS' offers?")

Let me break this down for you into two different questions to bring some clarity and simplicity.

First, let's answer the question, "What is our PURPOSE of our life?"

And to answer this question, let's look at what GOD says in HIS Word. In the gospel of John in 17:3, GOD says... "Now this is (eternal) life: that they ( you & I ) may "know" you, the only true GOD, and JESUS CHRIST, whom you have sent." And in 1 John, it says... "We know also that the Son of GOD has come and has given us ( you & I ) understanding, so that we are in HIM who is true-even in HIS Son JESUS CHRIST. HE is the true GOD and eternal life." So... "What is the PURPOSE of our life?"...the answer = TO KNOW GOD PERSONALLY so that we can have a right, living and loving relationship with HIM as our creator.

Secondly, let's answer the question, "What is the MEANING of our life?"

And to answer this question, let's look once again at what GOD says in HIS Word. In the book of Psalm 53:2, GOD says... "HE looks down from heaven on the sons of men to see if there are any who "understand" and any who "seek" HIM." And in the book of Genesis 1:15-17 we read that GOD is talking and in a relationship with Adam, HIS first created living being. Also, in the book of Genesis 1:18, 21-25, we read that GOD created Eve, thus giving Adam a helper and wife, and they are in/have a personal relationship with each other and with GOD.

Some other examples of GOD in personal relationships are with Noah (Genesis 6-9) Abraham (Genesis 22), Moses (Exodus 2), King David-- "man after GOD's own heart" (Psalm), JESUS and 12 disciples (Matthew, Mark, Luke and John) and many other people in the Bible. So, we see that through these living examples that...

GOD is a GOD who desires and longs to have a personal relationship with each one of us as HIS most cherished and loved creation!

But there is one problem...because of Adam and Eve's first sin (Romans 5:12a) and disobedience against GOD in the garden of Eden (Genesis 2 and 3), all of us are born into sin from birth (Romans 5:12b), thus bringing separation between us and GOD (Isaiah 58:2). For in the book of Romans 3:23 & 6:23, GOD says... "For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of GOD" and "For the wages of sin is death(both physically & spiritually), but the free gift of GOD is eternal life (both here on earth now, but in heaven with HIM too) in CHRIST JESUS our LORD."

But the solution to our problem of sin, which causes us to be separated from GOD is...

J.E.S.U.S. C.H.R.I. S.T.

"For GOD so loved the

world (put your name here)

that HE gave HIS one and only Son,

that whoever believes in HIM

shall not perish but have eternal life.

For GOD did not send HIS Son into the world

to condemn the world,

but to save the world through HIM."

John 3:16

And according to the book of Romans 10:9-10; 13, "That if you confess with your mouth, and believe in your that GOD raised HIM from the dead, you will be saved. For it is with your heart that you believe are justified, and it is with your mouth that you confess and are saved." "Everyone who calls on the name of the LORD will be saved."

Also, according to the book of Ephesians 2:8-9, "For it is by grace (GOD's unmerited favor) you have been saved, through faith and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of GOD, not by works, so that no one can boast."

You see JESUS was perfect without sin... "HE (GOD) made him (JESUS) who knew no sin to be sin on our behalf, so that we might become the righteousness of GOD in him (JESUS)", (2 Corinthians 5:21). Because GOD is a Holy and righteous GOD, which sin cannot exist because that is the opposite of who GOD is and HIS nature and being.

And because GOD is a GOD of love, HE through the sacrifice of HIS Son JESUS CHRIST (who died on the cross for all of our sins), provided a way to restore us (all of mankind) back in a right, living and personal relationship with HIM.

"Greater love has no one than this, that one lay down HIS life for HIS friends."

(John 15:13)

So... "What is the MEANING of our life?"...the answer = TO HAVE A PERSONAL & LOVING RELATIONSHIP with GOD our creator.

In closing...

GOD's PURPOSE in our life is to "KNOW HIM" personally and by knowing HIM personally...GOD gives us MEANING because we have "PERSONAL RELATIONSHIP with HIM."

My questions to you are...Do you have purpose and meaning in your life? Have you only heard "ABOUT" JESUS? More importantly, do you "KNOW" JESUS as your Savior and Lord?

If not, what are you waiting for?

"GOD our Savior

wants all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth."

(1Timothy 2:4)

Glory be to our living and loving GOD who desires to have a personal and rich relationship with each and every one of us!

If you want to know GOD personally and never asked HIS son JESUS CHRIST into your heart and life, I would invite you to do so. The following is a simple prayer if you desire to:

Dear GOD...I know that you created me to have a personal relationship with you and I want to know you personally. I know that I am a sinner, but I believe you sent your only son JESUS to die for me to forgive me of my sins. I believe HE died on the cross, was buried and rose three days later and is now up in heaven preparing a place for me to be with You. Thank you for forgiving me of my sins and giving me new purpose in my life. JESUS, I ask you to be my Lord and Savior so I can live for you because you died for me. Thank you JESUS...amen!

Congratulations if you asked JESUS into your heart and life! If you need any help in growing in your new found relationship with GOD, please don't hesitate to contact me. I would consider it a joy to help you!

In GOD's Love,

Derek

begind@hotmail.com

Leaving on Wednesday, December 1^st for SQUAD debrief for a couple of days. And then on to our next country, which is here in Malawi again, for our month of ministry. Another reminder, next month or so (December & January), internet access may be very limited due to the locations we may be in and the poor quality of internet connections. Please continue to write comments, etc. but know that I will respond back when I have available internet access.

Malawi, Moving and Missing...

Sun, 14 Nov 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Malawi, Moving, and Missing...

I arrived safely in Mzuzu, Africa about a week ago. It took our P-Squad a total of 84 hours and a full week to finally arrive in Malawi, Africa. And this is not including our travel from Romania to South Africa. The reason why it took so long, was we got delayed at a couple of the borders, but GOD worked everything out. I would also like to share with you that I never want to see or ride another bus again, but I know this will not happen!

After arriving in Malawi, our squad split up and met our ministry contacts that we will be serving with for the month of November. My team and I have the privilege to serve with a married couple, Tony & Charity, who pastor International Pentecostal Holiness Church. They, along with the church have been very gracious and kind to us. We are also staying at the church and have been involved with visiting families in different villages. Along with visiting these families, we have also had the chance to visit local schools and boarding schools to encourage them in the importance of getting a good education and helping them understand that GOD loves them and has a purpose and perfect plan for their lives (John 3:16-17 & Jeremiah 29:11). As a whole, the response of all those that we have been sharing with has been very receptive...many have confessed and made personal decisions to accept and to follow JESUS CHRIST as the their personal LORD and SAVIOR. "For the harvest is plenty, but the workers are few" (Matthew 9:37). I am very humbled to be used to share GOD's love with so many, but thankful to be part of GOD's redeeming plan for all men. Not only am humbled and thankful to represent GOD's truth and love, but I am encouraged that HE is building my courage and boldness in sharing about HIM with others. Glory be to our living and loving GOD who desires to have a personal and rich relationship with each and every one of us (John 17:3 & Colossians 1:16). GOD is Moving here in Africa, which is exciting that I can have a small part in it because of GOD's calling, your support and prayers!

On the other hand, I have been discouraged this month as well because I am home sick and am Missing all of you...my family, my friends and girlfriend. GOD is teaching me to persevere and rely in HIM and only in HIM. Being away from all of you has definitely forced me to "draw close/near to GOD so that GOD will draw close/near to me" (James 4:8). I am being reminded daily that only my relationship with GOD through JESUS CHRIST satisfies and fulfills my every yearning, desire and need within the deepest part of my soul and being.

In closing, know that miss & love all you dearly, but it's for a season of my life that GOD has called me to and is teaching me so much and allowing me to touch so many people's hearts and lives with HIS truth and rich love. Thank you for your thoughts, prayers and support through your encouraging comments on my blogs, e-mail and Facebook...they mean more than you know!

PS...During the next month or so (December & January), internet access my be very limited due to the locations we may be in and the poor quality of internet connections, etc. Please continue to write comments, etc. but know that I will respond back when I have internet access/quality connection.

LOVE,

Derek

A 'Thankful' and 'Balanced' Life

Fri, 15 Oct 2010 00:00:00 GMT

A 'Thankful' and 'Balanced' Life

I'm here in Moldova again for a second month, which I was disappointed because I was really looking forward to going to Romania. But on the more positive side, I am on and with a new team! I would like to welcome and introduce to you...
"THE A-TEAM"...

My new team members consist of: Jon Bunford(Team Leader), Cinthia Bunford (Jon's wife), Bethsaida Portalatin, Amanda Burkett (Finance person/team member from team "ERUPTION"), Sarah Gaddy and myself. I must say that I am so happy and blessed to be on this team with all of them. We get along and serve so well together!

Moving right along...my new team and I have been in three different villages this month which has been exhausting, but rewarding. The villages that we lived in were Gordesti, Burlacu and Badicu and helping in different ways such as...tearing down rafters, loading/unloading & delivering wood, cleaning windows & ditches, participating in church services (sharing testimonies, singing songs & sharing GOD's Word) and building meaningful relationships.

I must be honest and transparent and share with you that I was not very happy to be back in Moldova. It has been a difficult month because I miss my family, church, friends and girlfriend. Along with this, my living conditions were not that enjoyable. For example, in Burlacu, I stayed with a family who spoke very little English, internet access was limited, they had no bathroom/shower, had very mean dogs and the list could go on and on if I really wanted to, so I won't.

But GOD is good and faithful always showing up and teaching me in the midst of this. I feel as if HE has been teaching me in the following areas within my life right now:

Becoming

Authentic

Learning to seize and live in the moment

Attitude of gratitude

Needing to show and share GOD's love to all

Content in everything

Enduring in my struggles like JESUS

Being joyful always

Empowered by prayer

Allowing GOD to be in control

Mindful to give thanks in "ALL" circumstances

B E A M

Therefore, GOD is teaching me these things to bring more "BALANCE" into my life so I can "BEAM" for HIM! How about you?...How and what is GOD teaching you in order to bring more "BALANCE" into your life so you can "BEAM" for HIM?

"Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is GOD's will for you in CHRIST JESUS."

(1 Thessalonians 5:16-18)

Be joyful and be encouraged...thinking of, missing you and sending my love!

Heart of Compassion

Wed, 29 Sep 2010 00:00:00 GMT

"Heart of Compassion"

         Bunaziua (Boo-na-zi-wa)...Hello from Moldova! After 2 days of traveling by plane and trains... I arrived safely and have been living in a village called
Cornesti (Cor-nesh). In the words of my fellow teammate, Tommy, in describing Cornesti... "we are in a time warp between the 1800's and the cold war."

There is about 5,000 people in Cornesti. And the church that my fellow World Racers and I are helping and serving at is located in the center of the village.

Meet Vitalii and Irena, pastor and wife, of a church called Emmanuel (GOD with us).

Vitalii pastors, does a lot of social work, feeds the poor, provides food and shelter for about 15 orphans who live at the church, helps create skills for jobs and so many other things to reach out, to serve and to share the love of JESUS. I am very encouraged by Vitalii's example because he is very passionate, driven and loves GOD with all his heart in every capacity of his life! It has been a privilege and a blessing to serve along side him this month!

Being here in Cornesti, Moldova this month has been exciting and fruitful. My team ERUPTION and another team called SOAR are serving together.

We all have been fairly busy since we arrived in Cornesti. Some of the things we have had the priviledge to be part of are building relationships with Emmanuel Church members, visit families within the village (evangelism), teaching one on one English and learning Romanian/Russian, help participate in church and youth services, teaching at "Fire Conference", doing manual labor, prayer walking and encouraging pastor Vialii in whatever ways we can.

"JESUS went through all the towns and villages, teaching in their synagogues, preaching the good news of the kingdom and healing every disease and sickness. When he saw the crowds, he had compassion on them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd."
( Matthew 9:35-36 )

GOD is good because in the midst of all this, HE has been transforming my heart from the inside out. Thus, giving me more of HIS heart and filling it with HIS compassion and love. One of the many ways is through one of my teammates, Alexandra, who shared with me that I don't always have to "share" scripture when trying to help or encouraged people, etc. But I can "show" or be JESUS..."in the flesh" to them in order to "show" them I care. And that I also don't have to "hide behind scripture" to do this either. I must admit...when she shared this with me, I was hurt and I wanted to defend myself, but I knew in my heart this was true of me. So, some other ways that GOD has been transforming my heart and filling it with HIS compassion is...

   When I chose/choose to hang out, talk to and laugh with Victor (who lives at the church in the shelter and has cancer), instead of doing what the rest of my team members were doing;  URGENT:...Victor needs your prayers because he visited hospital and doctors shared he is not doing good. They give him 3 months to live due to the cancer! May GOD, through our prayers, bring power and complete healing (physically & spiritually) to Victor. Thank you so much!

    When I chose/choose to play with Nico, (who was an outcast) at the kid's progam during game time, instead of playig with the older kids who were playing soccer;

"So those that have been chosen of GOD, holy and beloved, put on the heart of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience."
( Colossians 3:12 )

   When I shared in a church service at Emmanuel about "Are you truly satisfied in life...only GOD satisfies" and a drunk guy named Damien comes up to the front and falls on his knees before me and wants prayer because he lost his wife, is an alcoholic and is miserable. And as a response I chose/choose to lay my hand on him (along with some other guys) to pray for him rather than me getting upset because he was interrupting my sharing time/message.

   When I chose/choose to come along side pastor Vitalii to comfort him by walking up to the front where he was at, to sit down next to him, put my arm over his shoulder and to pray with him and for him...because he was pouring out his heart to GOD while he was leading worship which it brought him to tears;

   When I chose/choose to give an elderly women named Marina, who's been rejected and looked down upon, a BIG hug when I saw her while walking in the street, who I briefly met at a church service at Emmanuel. The smile on her face reflected such joy, acceptance, thankfulness and love;

"For GOD does not see as man sees, for man looks at the outward appearance, but HE looks at the heart."
( 1 Samuel 16:7 )

   When I chose/choose to have a servant's heart when I (along with 4 other guys) had to help move (by hand) over 300 pieces of firewood from one location to another without having a "I don't want to attitude" or bad attitude. But allowing GOD to give me foresight to see that the wood I was moving was for the church to use to give to the needy/poor in the village and to the kids in the shelter to help them use to stay warm in order to meet their physical needs;

  When I chose/choose to come along side 3 younger guys (Caleb, Tommy & Philip) within my team, that I am currently rooming with this month...to share, show and challenge them in their own relationship with GOD... to become godly men with integrity that HE desires them to be.

"Heavenly FATHER...I echo David heart's and ask that you continue to "Create in me a clean heart, O GOD, and renew a steadfast spirit within me."
                                                         ( Psalm 51:10 )

Thank you for transforming my heart... giving it and filling it more with your compassion...I welcome it and ask that you continue to change me so I can continue to share it with all those that you lead me to share it with. I ask and give thanks to you in JESUS name- Amen."

The next country that I am off to is Bucuresti (Bucharest), which is in Romania (Europe) to have squad debrief and to change teams & leaders. We will be in Bucharest for 2 days and then will find out where we will be going from there. I will let you know as soon as I can.

Thanks for all your diligent prayers...please continue to pray, especially for the people I shared with you above. They really need you to stand in the gap for them by praying for them! Be encouraged... GOD is moving, is alive and being glorified! Together we are building HIS Kingdom here on earth!!

"Awakening" My Spirit...

Thu, 9 Sep 2010 00:00:00 GMT

"Awakening" My Spirit...

After leaving Haiti my squad and I went to Clondalkin, Ireland (9 miles outside of Dublin) for a worship and teaching conference. There were over 300 World Racers, Alumni and Staff combined that attended. It was so refreshing!

The following is what GOD taught me while at the Awakening Conference:

GOD gives dreams in order to accomplish and advance HIS Kingdom;

Were you taught to love the church or JESUS ? ;

Your identity is not who you think you are, but who GOD says you are (through HIS Word- the Bible);

Boys find your voice...stop playing games and become a man of GOD !;

We as Christians are no longer sinners, but Saints that sin;

Our view of GOD shapes and directs our lives;

GOD's love for us is not a choice, but it is who HE is...it is HIS nature;

GOD's primary expression is love...HE longs to be loved;

Your life should be lived for GOD through HIS love (New Covenant), not by Law which is living by rules/regulations (Old Covenant);

STOP trying to "BE A GOOD CHRISTIAN" and STOP trying to "DO GOOD THINGS" for GOD. START living in GOD's love and let HIM love you! ;

Be GOD's voice through your life both verbally (words) and physically (actions);

GOD has accepted you before you were acceptable;

Law instigates Sin;

I was born to do great things because GOD is alive and is inside of me;

Stay and live in the moment for JESUS CHRIST!

So...the Awakening Conference, along with the testimony of my friend Stuart(see & read blog : "Welcome into the Family..." ), the release of me being the finance person for my team, and the opportunity to be in Ireland, all played a part in GOD's plan to "Awaken" my spirit to live in HIS love and HIS Freedom.

"Now the LORD is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the LORD is, there is FREEDOM."
( 2 Corinthians 3:17 )

Last Days in Haiti

Tue, 7 Sep 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Last Days in Haiti

Sooo... I need to catch you up on what I was up to with the remaining time in Haiti. The rest of my time was at Foyer Renmen Orphanage was spent caring for, helping teach English, playing games, rebuilding a roof, painting part of a cafeteria and loving on orphans.

It was hard to say good bye, but GOD met each one of our needs personally. I must admit it was a rough month because of the humid & hot climate, cultural chaos & disorder and spiritual oppression. Thank you for your continued prayers... they realy helped me during this month more than you realize and know!

I would like to share with you that there are many needs that still need to be met at Foyer Orphanage. Florence (below), who has such a nurturing, loving and BIG heart, started the orphanage out of her house and has been taking in and caring for orphans for over 15 years now. She faces many challenges and the needs that are many on a daily basis. Please check out her website at www.renmenhaiti.org and if you feel like GOD is prompting and leading you to help in any way, she will be so grateful and thankful for your help.

Please continue to keep Haiti in your prayers. Even in the midst of Haiti's overall condition, GOD is still alive and moving... bringing healing and life to this country!

"Religion that GOD our FATHER accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world.

( James 1:27 )

"Welcome into the Family..."

Sun, 5 Sep 2010 00:00:00 GMT

WARNING:
This blog is long, but well worth the read...gauranteed !

"Welcome into the Family..."

I want to introduce and welcome my friend and fellow brother in CHRIST, Stuart, into the family of GOD!

Below is a testimony of how GOD opened up the door for me to share with Stuart about the void that he had in his heart, how it could be filled and how he could find true meaning and fulfillment in his life:

I was just finishing up from a time of meeting with our P-squad team and squad leaders for a time of worship, praying and debrief at Green Isle Hotel in Ireland. As a result, I left feeling pretty encouraged and went to a quieter location in the hotel to try to skype-call my girlfriend Rachel and check my personal e-mail. So, as I sat down and settled myself in the Leisure Club area, I tried to skype-call Rachel and got no answer, therefore, left a message. I then checked my e-mail, etc. After I checked my e-mail, I attempted to skype-call Rachel again. But I didn't because GOD prompted and lead me, through HIS Holy Spirit, to walk over to this guy that I didn't even know to tell him about JESUS, who was around the corner from where I was sitting. At first, I ignored GOD's prompting and asked HIM... "GOD do you really want me to go over there and talk to this guy that I don't even know?" And HE responded to me in my spirit... "Yes, get up and go talk to him." So, I stopped what I was doing, put down my head-set, got up and started walking slowly over to this guy who was working and stocking vending machines. I slowly made my way over to him after looking at the vending machines to see what selection of items they had to offer. Then I greeted this guy by saying "hi" and introduced myself to him. In return, he introduced himself as Stuart and we started talking.

I shared with him why I was at the hotel, along with 300 plus Christians, to attend the "Awakening"- a worship & teaching conference. He shared with me that he and his wife actually stepped inside one of our sessions and was blown away and touched by the atmosphere of peace, love, and the presence of GOD in the room! We continued to talk about how he had this void in his heart and how he tried to fill it with the things of this world...money, material things, status, sex, drugs, etc. And how empty they were and that they didn't satisfy him. I shared with Stuart that JESUS filled that void that I once had, in my heart and life completely, resulting in giving me complete peace and fulfillment in my own life. I asked him if he was a Christian? He responded by telling me he was a Catholic. I then asked him if he had a personal relationship with GOD and if he had ever asked JESUS into his heart and life to fulfill that void in his heart and life? He said "No." In response, I asked him if he would like to ask and accept JESUS as his LORD and SAVIOR to fill that void in his heart and life? He said "Yes." So, I shared intentionally and briefly that there was nothing magical or special about the prayer that I was going to lead him in. But it was by grace through faith alone confessing with his mouth and believing in his heart that JESUS died for his sins and is forgiven through HIS bloodshed. And as a result, he is forgiven and no longer separated from GOD because of his sins, but brought back into a personal relationship with GOD. Once Stuart understood this, I lead him through a prayer to ask JESUS into his heart and life as his loving LORD and SAVIOR! After we finished praying, I congratulated and welcomed him into GOD's family and gave Stuart a BIG hug!

We continued to talk for awhile, I gave him a pamphlet to help him understand more about how to grow in his new-found relationship with GOD, and we exchanged e-mail addresses so we could keep in touch. We met up at the hotel again an hour later so I could answer any other questions that he had, to give him some discipleship material, to give him a Purpose Driven Life booklet and most importantly, to give him a Bible. I ended our time together praying with him and for him in his new-found relationship with GOD!

Please keep Stuart and his beautiful family (wife & 3 kids) in your prayers as he seeks after and grows in his walk, relationship and love for GOD- thanks!

What a testimony huh? I take no credit for it and am humbled, but thankful that GOD would give me this opportunity to listen and obey HIM!

GOD is good and gets all the honor, praise and glory...

"Thank you GOD for opening up this door for me to share with Stuart who was ready to hear the good news that you desire to have a personal relationship with him because you love him so much! I give thanks and pray this in JESUS name- Amen."

"Blessed are those who hunger and thirst after righteousness (GOD), for they will be filled."

( Matthew 5:6 )

"And the testimony is this, that GOD has given us eternal life, and this life is in HIS SON. He who has the SON has life; he who doesn't have the SON of GOD doesn't have life."

( 1 John 5:11-12 )

Friends in the Midst of Haiti

Mon, 23 Aug 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Friends in the Midst of Haiti

So...I am following up from my recent written blog entitled "GOD's Studs" which I shared with you about...

"being able to talk and be in Haiti with a couple of close and meaningful friends...Justin and Roseann Dennery. They both felt the call from GOD to be missionaries to help and serve those that live in poverty. Justin and I worked at the same hospital back in the States and have served together in ministry. Just as GOD brought me be to here in Haiti to share and show the love of JESUS...HE has also brought Justin and Roseann to Haiti as well to do the same. I had the opportunity to talk to Justin a couple of times already and hope to meet up with themto spend some time with them before I leave Haiti."

Well...what a testimony to share with you that GOD opened up and provided a way for me to see & visit my friends Justin and Roseann here in Haiti. It turns out they were only about 20-25 minutes away from where I was staying at Foyer Renmen Orphanage!

Long story short...my team and I had to bring and drop off our squad leaders to another team which was at another location. We all ended up going to drop them off at this location which was the same location where Justin and Roseann were staying at! So, I ended up getting to see & spend time with them. Our time together was short and sweet, but so needed and so encouraging!

Who would of guessed that GOD would call us to the same place at the same time for the same purpose to meet up?!

Thanks GOD for opening up the door for Justin, Roseann and I to see & spend time with one another...what a treat and blessing! Thanks also for reminding me of your promise that "with men this is impossible, but with YOU all things are possible (Matthew 19:26).

GOD's Studs

Wed, 18 Aug 2010 00:00:00 GMT

GOD's Studs

I have been in Haiti, in the providence of La Plan (Law Plawn), at the Foyer Renmen Orphanage now for a little over two weeks. I wanted to share with you the following:

The first being able to talk and be in Haiti with a couple of close and meaningful friends...Justin and Roseanne Dennery. They both felt the call from GOD to be missionaries to help and serve those that live in poverty. Justin and I worked at the same hospital back in the States and have served together in ministry throughout the years. Just as GOD brought me be to here in Haiti to share and show the love of JESUS...HE has also brought Justin and Roseanne to Haiti as well to do the same. I had the opportunity to talk to Justin a couple of times already and hope to meet up with him and his wife Roseanne before I leave Haiti to spend some time with them. What a treat and blessing!

Secondly, having internet to keep in touch with family, friends and my sweet'hart' Rachel has been a life saver! Sorry for those I haven't written to or responded back to yet. Time and internet access play a big part in this. Thanks for all those who have responded back to my blogs. I am receiving your comments and am so encouraged by them. Please keep them coming...your comments are my life support along with GOD's strength, perserverance and rich love.

Lastly, last night was one of many high-lites for me here at the Renmen Orphanage. While here, I have been getting the opportunity to build relationships and friendships with the young men which is my heart beat and has excited me! Caleb and I had the opportunity and privilege to meet with these young men, which we were able to talk to through two Haitian translators (Vincent & Peter). The purpose for meeting with these young men was to take some time to get to know them, to find out where they are spiritually (Go to church? Know JESUS personally?, etc.), and to try to answer any questions they might have about GOD. We spent between forty-five minutes to an hour talking and sharing, which was meaningful. Afterwards, I felt really encouraged and I know that they were as well.

My desire and hope during this time with these young men is that they left with a deeper understanding that GOD has a perfect plan for their lives...here at the orphanage and in the future, how much GOD loves them unconditionally and that each one of them...through their faith and trust in JESUS, are GOD's mighty protectors, warriors and beloved Sons. They are GOD's studs!

Presenting GOD's studs from left to right: Derek, Herby, Francis, Davidson, Dave, Barberto, Emanuel and Caleb.

Please pray for more opportunities to encourage these young men in there relationship with GOD and for them to become the godly men with integrity that HE desires them to fully become...thanks!

"Don't DO"... Just "BE"...

Sat, 7 Aug 2010 00:00:00 GMT

" Don't Do"... Just "BE"...

I have arrived safely to Haiti...thanks for all your prayers. My team and I are just outside of the city called Port-au-Prince and have been here for almost a week now. It's quite humid and hot here...sweating a lot. Since the earthquake and the death of 300,000 Haitians...there has been a lot of good happening. There is a spiritual thirst and hunger which many Haitians are coming to CHRIST(becoming Christians). GOD is moving so please keep praying for this country!

Currently GOD is teaching me...that our relationship with HIM isn't always about "doing", but sometimes it's just "being".

BEING...

><> Still to hear GOD when HE's trying to teach you something;

><> Filled with HIS peace and joy in the midst of trials and
challenges;

><> Content in any and all circumstances and situations;

><> Patient in the midst of waiting;

><> A smile to those that don't have much to smile about;

><> A hug to those that don't receive them, but need them;

><> A friend to the friendless;

><> Available to help with laundry and doing it by hand;

><> A teammate to play soccer;

><> A teacher to help teach English;

><> A positive role model;

><> Relational to the unwanted;

><> Hope to the hopeless;

><> Change to the helpless;

><> Light to those who can't see;

><> Truth in the midst of lies;

><> Comfort to the hurting;

><> Joy to the joyless;

><> Family to the homeless;

><> Love to the loveless;

><> JESUS' heart, hands and feet to orphans.

Above is a description of what GOD has been teaching me and how HE is using me and my team in an orphanage where we are staying and are helping at for the rest of this month (August). This orphanage is called "Foyer Renmen" where there are about 50 kids from the ages 2-20. It has been challenging, but humbling to see how GOD breaks down the barriers through acts of HIS unconditional love through my team and I.

Meet my little friend Oliver who is 8 months old and lives here at the orphanage who we have had the opportunity to care for. J

Personally, I have had a tough time transitioning from last month in the Dominican Republic, where we were "doing" things, in comparison to this month, where we just need to "be". In Luke 10:38-40, GOD prefers us as HIS children to "be" rather than "do" because HE is a relational GOD that desires a personal and loving relationship with all of us. How can you get to know someone if you don't spend time with him/her? This is only possible if you spend time with that person, etc. And in realizing and understanding this, I can say with thanksgiving... "FATHER always knows best."

So I leave you with the following verse from Psalm 46:10 until I write again:

"Be still, and know that I am GOD; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth."

Spend some time with GOD...HE wants to spend time with YOU. So "Don't DO"... just "BE"... and spend time with a GOD who is waiting anxiously for you."

VBS...Weeds...Fruit...Oh My!

Thu, 29 Jul 2010 00:00:00 GMT

VBS...Weeds...Fruit...Oh My!

What does VBS (Vacation Bible School), weeds and fruit all have in common?

Read on to find out...

Last week was a week full of kids, VBS and fun! In order for the kids to come to VBS, my team and I went to the surrounding houses located around the church in a rural area called Mijo ("ME-HO"). We then shared with the different families about GOD's truth & love and at the same time, invited their kids to VBS. Trying to share with families was kind of frustrating to me because of the language barrier-even with a translator. But GOD broke this language barrier with HIS unconditional love that showed through us- regardless! Pastor Manuel would also go and pick-up kids to bring them to VBS. There were between 15-20 kids on average. But on the last day of VBS there were 74 kids total- praise GOD!

Throughout the week, my team and I taught Bible stories, lead worship- singing songs, taught scripture, made crafts and played games. This definitely was not my thing, but GOD showed up and worked in and through me anyways...HE is amazing how HE works that way! Below is a couple of pictures of me sharing and teaching the story of "Jonah" with the kids. I think they learned a lot or maybe not? J

Moving forward to this week...it has been going good. Throughout the week we gave kids haircuts- at least we tried to (it doesn't help when we randomly have electricity!). For the most part, I did labor again working outside repairing church fencing, cutting more weeds and picking up trash. Below is a picture of me with a machette, a hoe (which was broken that I fixed too) and the area I was cutting weeds & clearing out.

While I was actually working and cutting the weeds, I was thinking of the "weeds" and asked GOD... "GOD show me what weeds I currently have in my life?" And the following weeds that I believe GOD showed me that I have in my own life now are: selfishness, jealousy, envy, impurity (lust), pride, anger and at times, not having a servant's heart. As a result, I felt convicted and I prayed the following prayer...

"JESUS you are the true vine, and Heavenly FATHER you are the gardener. Cut off every weed (branch) in me that bears no fruit so that you will prune me to bear fruit for you. Thank you that if I remain in you and JESUS you remain in me, I will bear much fruit; apart from you I can do nothing. FATHER...this is for your glory that you bear fruit in me, showing me to be your disciple. Continue to remove the weeds in my life and fill me with the fruit of your HOLY SPIRIT....love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. ><> John 15:1-2, 4-5, 8; Galations 5:22<>< I pray asking these things with anticipation, expectancy and thanksgiving in JESUS' name- amen."

The rest of this week is pretty low-keyed. Going to a Thanksgiving church service tonight. Tomorrow (Friday) is a free day and Pastor Manuel is taking my team and I to a dam, sight-seeing and maybe pizza. As for the remaining time, I will be packing to get ready to leave on Saturday morning to go to Haiti. Please be in prayer for our safe travel and protection- thanks! Next update will be from Haiti...until then...

Be Encouraged in CHRIST,

Love

Derek J

Heart & Butterfly = Vision

Thu, 22 Jul 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Just wanted to share briefly about a vision that GOD gave to me to me earlier this month. The following is an insert from my journal entry along with a picture:

July 13, 2010

As Kim, our squad leader, was praying for the closing of our ministry time with our contacts consisting of pastors, translators and fellow world racers, I bowed my head and closed my eyes to pray. As Kim was praying for our group, GOD gave me a vision. This vision was of a "heart" and in the center of it was a beautiful "butterfly". The heart represented all of us World Racers ("P" Squad), pastors and translators united to share and show the "love" of JESUS CHRIST together. Combined with the heart was a butterfly which represented "change". So, all of us combined... World Racers ("P" Squad), pastors and translators, will be GOD's ambassadors (2 Corinthians 5:20) to bring about a beautiful change for JESUS CHRIST together in here in the Dominic Republic!