Video: Family Memories X-mas ’09

Here is a short, fun clip of family memories from Christmas ’09.

Family and Friends in the states, we miss you and wish we were near. I wanted Grandma and Granddaddy and Mema and Papa to know we are happy and well, so I made a quick clip to share. Feel free to watch.

God is good! He is faithful! He is King! Glory to Him! Praise to Jesus Christ! Alleluia. Alleluia. May we be more bold this New Year for Him!

Christmas Card

The Burch Family wishes you a very Merry Christmas in this 2009th Year of Our Lord! May the Grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you and your family during this holiday season. May God grant you and yours everything you need to serve Him during the upcoming 2010 year as well!

In Him,
Buck, Leslie, Ashlyn, Amielle, and Luke Burch
Moscow, Russia

Good Resource

Here is a good resource for those of you interested in training church planters, partnering with IMB missionaries in Russia, in studying about the contextualization approach, etc. One of Buck's most recent posts is about Partnership for Salvation: Finding a Person of Peace

"This week we take on the Luke 10 passage where Jesus told his 72 other missionaries to plan to find a person of peace. Notice that Jesus didn’t tell these guys to go set up a massive evangelism campaign; actually he was going to do that later. Instead he wanted them to initiate a base of operations through finding a person of peace.Just what is a 'person of peace', 'man of peace', or 'son of peace'?"
Read more on these topics at Buck Burch.

The significance of the number 10.

I am going to share a life story with you to explain the significance of the number 10. Luke just had his 10th birthday. Luke is our tithe—10%; we gave him to the Lord 10 years ago. I praise the Lord for my Luke on this special day!

While living in Moscow and adjusting to our new culture in 1998, we had several unique experiences; though, sometimes they were unpleasant and trying ones.
While carrying my third child, I had problems that developed in the seventh week of pregnancy. I was at language class that day. My first prayer was that the Lord’s will be done and that God would save my baby. My language instructor was very concerned, but her reaction was rather strange. She could not understand why I would want to have another child anyway. The norm in the Russian culture, outside of the religious evangelical circles, is one child per family. Later she even questioned, “You are not going to put your body through this hard pregnancy, are you?” I got the same response at the hospital that day. The technician asked if I wanted to have an abortion. Because of the stress my body was under, I did not need any more pessimistic statements. Buck and I immediately gave this child to the Lord.

A friend who had a vehicle came by to drive me to the clinic. All I could do was pray the entire trip, which seemed like took forever. After the doctor’s examination, we discovered that the fetal sac detached 35% from the wall. I had a hemotoma located near the left side of the sac. The doctor only gave our child a 10% chance to survive, and if I continued to carry the baby, he or she would likely be born premature. Needless to say, we gave this tithe to the Lord. Our tithe!

The doctor put me on bed rest for at least two weeks. I could not do any housework or cook. Buck was in charge of everything including the children. After some period of time the doctor said that I could move around the house slowly. I could take short walks near the house, but I was not to travel on public transportation for any reason. Therefore, our language teacher traveled to us for lessons.

It was very reassuring to see the baby growing and kicking on the sonograms that I had often. We knew that God was in control. A verse from the Bible kept coming to mind: If we are weak in times of challenge, how little is our strength (Proverbs 24:10)! The Holy Spirit provided me with the strength needed to endure.

The baby kept a normal heartbeat the entire pregnancy. God wanted our baby to survive. Soon we found out that we had a son, Luke, growing inside the womb. God knew that I deeply wanted this child. Remembering back to the day when the pregnancy could have ended, I recollected how my emotions yelled for God to sustain Luke. When doctors doubted all possibilities, the Lord was performing a miracle.

Around the 20th week we discussed delivery. The doctor wanted to make plans for premature labor. The options for locating a hospital capable of handling this type of birth in Moscow were slim. We knew if the Lord did not show us an adequately standard medical hospital that we must make other arrangements, possibly travel to another country. That meant that I would have to live somewhere else with the girls for three to four months, and Buck stay in Russia. That was a surprise!

Buck also needed to start finding us a home in Bryansk (the city in Russia where he was to serve as strategy coordinator). Our plans were to move after full-time language and the birth of the baby. After talking with leadership, we made plans for the girls and I to live with parents in the States in case of an early delivery. I finished my last language exam at 11 months, which was presenting a witnessing outline, and traveled home with the girls, leaving Buck behind. What a sad day that was as we waved goodbye in the airport! I immediately built up a wall to fight the emotions that were flourishing. I did not know how I would survive without my best friend for four months. However, I knew that I needed to for Luke’s sake. Buck recollects those lonely months of separation, too.

It became a lonely time for the family as we separated by an ocean and thousands of miles, but the Lord began to teach us dependence upon Him and several lessons that could only be learned through this period of separation. Two in particular came through scriptures that I had learned long ago but through which the Holy Spirit began to speak.

As I finished up full time language school and began the move to Bryansk. With the help of the Russian brothers and missionary friends, the Lord led me to the right apartment. I began to buy the necessary appliances and furniture to accommodate our family when they would return after the baby’s birth. I’m no interior decorator, but it was a pure joy to begin fixing up the apartment in preparation for Leslie, the girls and our expected son. As I was putting everything in place in the kitchen, I thought only of Leslie’s tastes, how Leslie would like it decorated— her favorite colors, where she would want the flour, etc. Upon completion I sat down to admire the place. It was then that the Holy Spirit brought a verse to memory, “I go to prepare a place for you” (John 14:2). I sensed Jesus telling me, “Buck, I know you really miss your family, but did you know that I also long for you to be here with me. You know the joy you are experiencing in preparing Leslie and your kids a place is the same joy I am experiencing right now as I prepare a place for my bride!” I couldn’t help but break into tears as I thought of how magnificent heaven must be. Jesus is there, and He is preparing a place with us in mind.

The days of waiting and waiting and waiting for our son to be born seemed like years. The Lord also brought to mind a verse, “For the earnest expectation of the creature waiteth for the manifestation of the sons of God” (Romans 8:19). He seemed to say, “Buck, be patient, he will be here soon and you will have your time of rejoicing!” People are getting saved all over the world, and soon the true sons of God will be shown for who they really are. Be patient, world, Jesus will be here soon and the sons of God will be revealed, and you will rejoice at His appearance!
- “The Times of our Lives” newsletter, October 1999

God is so good, so powerful and so wonderful. Many prayers were lifted up to perform a miracle. Our “miracle boy”, Lucius Robuck Burch IV (aka Luke), was born at 8:45 EST on November 29, 1999, only two weeks early. He weighed 8 pounds and was 19.5 inches long. Buck came as soon as possible. After a month, we traveled back to Russia together, interestingly straight to Bryansk. The things I did not know….My missionary life was just beginning.
-The Chosen Path, L. Burch

Nationally Broadcast Radio Interview

Click here for Life With Purpose Radio interview airing this weekend with Buck and Dr. Robert White, the executive director of the Georgia Baptist Convention, about life in Russia and the upcoming GBC partnership (precisely at 13:52).

Happy Thanksgiving Day!

The Burch Family wants to wish you a very Happy Thanksgiving Day today!
We hope your day is filled with God’s goodness as you bring thanks to Him for all He’s done for us!
We invite you to remember our most precious blessing is salvation we find in Jesus Christ alone.
May God grant you a wonderful day of memories with loved ones and friends.

In Him,
Buck, Leslie, Ashlyn, Amielle and Luke
“…but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.”—Philippians 4:6

Семья Бурч хочет желать Вам очень Счастливый День благодарения сегодня!
Мы надеемся, что Ваш день заполнен совершенством Бога, поскольку Вы приносите благодарность Ему для всего, что Он сделан для нас!
Мы приглашаем Вас помнить, что наше самое драгоценное благословение - спасение, которое мы находим в Иисусе Христе один.
Пусть Бог предоставляет Вам замечательный день воспоминаний с любимыми и друзьями.

В Нем,
Бак, Лесли, Эшлин, Амиэл и Лука
“…, но всегда в молитве и прошении с благодарением открывайте свои желания пред Богом ”—Фил. 4:6

Join in prayer

*photo reference from Georgia Baptist Convention 2009 (A plea to GA Baptists to pray with us)

Thanks for your prayers for the situation in Russia. As many of you already received our e-updates a few weeks ago, I ask that you continue to remember the following:
"We have been asked to enter into prayer and fasting with the Russian Baptist Union regarding new legislation being pushed through Russian congress. If it does pass, our missionary activities and the regular Christian life of Russian Baptists will be severely restricted. I would ask that you join in prayer with our local Baptist brothers that God would give wisdom and common sense to those making these decisions." (Buck Burch)

To read an article about these regulations, click on Baptist Press or The Christian Index

Georgia Baptist Mission Partnership Opportunities

Pray about mission partnership opportunities with Russia: Here is a video link to a message from Dr. White, executive director of the Georgia Baptist Convention.

packing for the trip...I sat with my backpack full waiting for the few items that I crammed in all the pockets to satisfy my every need.

In the beginning of my missionary experience, I never knew 12 years later that such a partnership would develop between my home state and Russia. I cannot wait to see what plans the Lord has to unite the two--Georgia Baptists and the Russian Baptist Union. As I read the article in the Christian Index today, my heart was overjoyed. I immediately had thoughts of home about packing for the trip. So, I flipped through my journal pages and found some of my first meanderings about leaving home to live in Russia as an IMB missionary. And I sincerely want to thank you dear people from Helena Baptist Church in Helena and Southside Baptist in McRae, Georgia. Because you are the ones who taught me the words to the song:: "This Little Light of Mine".

Journal entry in The Chosen Path: Standing in the middle of my bedroom in Eastman, Georgia, I looked around and wondered where to begin. The back pack and trunks sat on the floor empty. As my eyes circled the room, I did not know where to start. Grabbing a shirt here and a pair of pants there, I finally commenced throwing things in the luggage. There was so much stuff. Where did I get all these things? As I prepared and gathered items for my voyage, I really did not know what I would need. Somehow I sorted through the important things and stored the other behind.

I really did not know what was necessary until I arrived at my destinations. With each trip along the way, I soon realized what was required more than anything else. My relationship with the Lord is the most valuable piece or possession that I must have. I was stripped, so to speak, of family, friends, church programs, Christian music and worship services in my heart language. How does a person survive without these dependencies? It is really very simple; however, I must have been rather stubborn on the first few legs of my journey to figure it out. There I sat with my backpack full just waiting for the few items that I crammed in all the pockets to satisfy my every need.

As I plopped on my floor in Russia one day, unlike mine at home, it finally dawned on me. My very existence and livelihood depends on the Lord. All we need is Him! I asked God to help me. I asked God to bring me closer to Him. I wanted to only seek Him for satisfaction. I wanted Him to provide for my every need.

That is when my learning process really began. A person cannot learn until they are willing to listen. In a classroom a teacher instructs and attempts to lead her students to understanding. However, until students have the desire to learn and entrust their attention in the teacher, they will not understand. They may go through the motions of learning but never gain wisdom or true knowledge. Learning comes through application. It was time for me to practice what I had been taught over the years and was being taught day by day.

Remembering my childhood days as I sang the old spiritual, children’s song, “This Little Light of Mine”, I realized that my light was moved to another part of the world. Though the faces changed, the words changed and the entire culture was different, my relationship with Jesus was the same. I could not hide my light under a bushel waiting for the familiar to carry me through and out into the world, but I had to hold it up and stand in Him alone to shine (Matthew 5:14). If I did not get my act together, I was not going to make it or be effective in any way.

Reflecting back, I started to formulate who I was and who I was becoming.
In His Love,
Les

in the shadows

The other week I went to church without my family because they were a little under the weather. It was a day filled with meetings, teaching and discipling. I had a lot of time to think on the way to church as I traveled by way of metro and walking. It has been a joy this past year to work and serve at Golgotha. The people have been so kind and supportive of our ministry there. I love our pastor and his family as I did my pastor in Saint Petersburg. I can honestly say that these two men have found a special place in my heart because of their devotion to the Lord and leadership skills.

I teach an English Bible study lesson for the kids and parents that attend the class. As we study the English language, I infiltrate Bible lessons and Biblical vocabulary words. And parents who live in neighboring apartment buildings attend with their children. The attendance pattern is so sporadic though. We even had a totally new group yesterday. Sometimes we have 15, and other times it may just be five or six. However, I adapt the lesson for whoever shows and trust that the students will gain new insight from the Word. And for those who do not have a personal relationship with the Lord, I pray that they come to know Him.

As I was contemplating about church and this ministry, I thought about the day and what part I enjoyed the most. I sit among ladies who have totally let me into their group as one of them. Yesterday I was giving an illustration about the Baptist churches and in the Russia language I said, “Our churches in Russia….” Then I paused, apologized and mentioned that I could not help but say “our” churches even though I know that I am an American, but I have lived here for so long. One lady commented that there was no need for me to apologize, because I am Russian. She may never know how much a compliment like that is cherished by a missionary. I also like to receive flowers, fresh berries and vegetables gifts and simple hugs, pats or kisses from the sisters in Christ. Yesterday I was given a bag full of yellow berries. I have no clue what they are, but the offer was nice. I love the ladies in our church, and I think they know it.

Having just translated 11 lessons on spiritual gifts for the upper-intermediate English class, I try to make the most of everything I do for the building up of the body of Christ. The way may be a small one but the desire is huge. We all are needed to work together and are found useful for a purpose. I ask for wisdom to use my time wisely and for direction, because I want to make the most of my efforts—not just good but the best. I desire to use my gifts in the way that pleases the Father.

So, I bounced from meeting to meeting and group to group throughout the day and was torn where to actually stay, because I treasure it all. For a person who loves activity and being involved where the action is, however, I found myself wanting to withdraw, land in the shadows and be of use in a one-on-one situation.

Looking at the whole picture, I so enjoyed the entire day; but my favorite moment was sitting at a secluded table with a new believer in Christ. This lady repented several months ago in another church in Moscow. She started attending our church after her move to the north side of the city. I have been chatting with her for weeks now and felt it was time to ask her if she wanted to have a cup of tea together and find a spot in the church to study. I wanted to disciple and pray with her if she desired.

I pulled out an old Bible study that I wrote years ago while living in Bryansk and we started on the first lesson—“Assurance of my Relationship with the Father” (A Woman’s Path to God, 2003). Nothing beats sharing your own testimony with others. I know that there are many great books and teachings on the market. But when a person has something from experience to share, it is valued so much more. So, my new adventure, not hers, is encouraging one new believer how to know Him. She even eagerly told me before I could embrace the topic again, “I need to baptized; I do not need to put it off any longer.” I guess my plans of study will move a little faster than I expected.

I thank the Lord for how He encourages me. Just when I question my worth, my efforts or my selfish thoughts of did “I” do this right or am “I” being used for You in the right way, He points everything back to His work. The Holy Spirit does not need me, but thank God He allows me to participate, especially in the shadows!

English ministry update and praise!

We often divide into small groups to assist with the various levels in our English class at Golgotha. Buck is continuing with the adults at an upper-intermediate level. For the children’s class (parents and grandparents also attend), we have two levels—beginning and intermediate. One Russian young girl is helping me with a group. Ashlyn, Amielle and another young girl help with the other group. We studied about the Book of Life this past Sunday and if our names are written there, and a student prayed to receive Christ. It was such a joy to watch my own children participate in leading someone in a prayer of forgiveness.

Devotion- serve him and believe in his promise

-Path 22-
A Winter's Path
by Leslie Burch

Path Light: Read John 12:20-35
Key Passage: If somebody wants to serve me, he has to follow me. My servant will be everywhere I go. If somebody wants to serve me, my Father will bless him. -John 12:26

As His servants desiring to be fully used for His potential, we have to be reminded in His teachings that we have been chosen by Him only to bring glory to His name. In everything we are doing, no matter where we are living, or what we are experiencing, we need to constantly focus on bringing glory to His name. Having given our lives to the Lord, we need to remember that He is always near us as we follow Him closely. The moment that we do not follow after Him and look at our steps is the time when we lose our focus and vision of Him and His leading.

Many times while living in Bryansk and Saint Petersburg, Russia, I have questioned why certain things have happened. And often wondered for what purpose God allowed these things to take place. Then I am reminded time and time again that I will not always understand. I realize that I cannot possibly grasp His wisdom and decision in all matters. Everything is for His glory and only for that reason should we serve and remember His promise in John 12 "if any man serve me, him will my Father honor.” I know that some circumstances seem to have no eternal purpose. They are sometimes simply hard to comprehend. I question how God can even use me or a situation for His glory. However, I know the fact and trust in the Holy Sprit that one day He will fully allow me to comprehend through His eyes the meaning and purpose of each leading/action. Then, I will look back over the years and wonder why I could not see....

Path Application:
This week let us apply this prayer: May we focus on Your promise, Father, that we are honored as we serve You. May we follow Your lead. May we bring glory to His name!

translation complete

I finished placing the last translated spiritual gifts lesson on the Golgotha in English site. This has been a great project for me as it was a means for me to improve my language skills as well as watch others enjoy learning about their gifts.

It is time for us to have a serious talk.

We have a phrase where I am from that goes like this: It is time for us to have a serious talk. I used to love it when late at night my dad, mom and I decided to have a family conference. I am not sure why the desire normally hit us after supper. And the discussion time went into the early hours of the morning. Those were great, tiring moments but learning ones at that! The topics would range from national, business, family, convention, church, town, or personal issues. I think that we would solve the world’s problems in our small living room in McRae, Georgia. There is no need to look it up on the map; it may or may not be there. The town is bigger than the one stop signal light ones but not by much.

These are serious times as they always have been really. Let me explain my thoughts. This morning when I got up I started my daily routine of Bible study, prayer, checking e-mail and reading the online news first thing. Even through our popular social global networks, we can find out how friends are doing in an instant. These networks bring the good and the bad, and they are widespread in popularity. So, I have decided to use them for not only fun avenues but also witnessing tools. I have had many opportunities to tell someone about Jesus and disciple others via chats, instant messaging and tweets. How interesting! We might as well use it more for the good and not let the bad take control.

Last night after my responsibilities with my family where completed for the day, I sat down once again at my computer to check the news. I clicked on a video clip of two of the Southern Baptist Convention's former conservative presidents carrying on a conversation about times past and it was almost as if they knew their days on earth were numbered. They are older in age now and they were reflecting. As I listened, I was in awe to some degree, because these two made a huge change for the good in our convention around the late 70s and early 80s with a return and strong desire for conservatism.

This morning I woke to think about other leaders that really have made a difference to stand strongly on Biblical truths and principles and to believe firmly in the One and Holy God. These leaders are older now and as I look around, I wonder who is going to take their place. Tears come to my eyes as I think of times past and see a generation about to enter into a new life.

And I do not notice many dynamic leaders like those today. Overall as a convention, I see a possible four on the brink of positive influence. Will it happen? Can a great influence take place that will change America and the world for Christ? I hope so. One of these leaders just recently announced publically that after being in the ministry for many years, he still has a strong passion for Christ and one personally shared with me the desire to make a difference. May we never lose our passion or strong desire! As I pray for this to happen, I want to be humble in my efforts to contribute to what I deem important—desiring personal and cooperate revival for the building efforts of a great commissioning movement.

With that, though, comes change. Having been a missionary now for over 11 years and lived in a country where change is inevitable and happens daily. I have discovered five steps that have helped me know how better to handle change: 1) Observe early, 2) Analyze wisely, 3) Act accordingly, 4) Adjust rapidly and 5) Evaluate always.

One needs to most often observe the process early. This means sometimes beforehand. That way we already “knew” the change was coming. This cannot always happen but it generally does when we stay alert. I do my best to analyze with wisdom through prayer. The next step is usually the difficult one for most people. That is to act accordingly. Some wait too late to act, thus causing personal and cooperate or organizational stress. The stress takes place because of procrastination. An optimist views the situation as an opportunity to make a positive move and help with the change. Procrastinators do the opposite. They slow the process down and possibly prevent a great awakening. We must keep in mind step number two is analyzing wisely. Not all change is good. But change happens. It is how we move with it and influence it that makes the difference for the ultimate good. Pray for wisdom.

The fourth step is to adjust rapidly. If I do not, I might get hurt. Look at the meaning of the word hurt however you choose. If a person does not move quickly, the outcome, though, usually is painful, figuratively and sometimes literally speaking. That is what leads us to step number five—evaluate always. One has to be prepared, because generally the cycle repeats and turns. If we are constantly evaluating a situation, nothing will take us by surprise, thus the stress level for stage three will be low. Stay on top of matters. Be in control. Pray for wisdom and trust in Him to help you see the matter clearly.

Having explained my thoughts, I see a new moment in history on the horizon. Change is coming. How will we handle it? What part will we play? How will we lead and follow? And who will step up to be that dynamic influence? I am praying for you and for me to be those great men and women of influence for today.

Maybe I am a little bolder than I used to be. Maybe the experiences that I have been through have caused me to think quite deeper than just on the surface. When you are in a new position or a new environment, it is very important how you react. Since I have made the comparison in my missionary life before about being in a spiritual battle similar to that of a military one, I have learned that you come to new territory prepared and with foresight. You cannot come to a battle and then try to figure everything out; you have to be ready to move. I think the same goes for how one tolerates change. Come prepared to overtake it.

Regardless, it is time to have a serious talk and solve the world’s problems.
-The Chosen Path, L.Burch

Another gift just for you…

You can hear Dima's, Sveta's, Sergei's and Marina's story now.

A team of IMB workers recently finished pulling together a devotional guide of encouraging stories from the Russian cluster. I posted it on the sidebar for your convenience. You, dear stateside prayer warriors and fellow colleagues, have asked how to get more copies of this booklet. Please click on the Blessings cover photo on the side of this blog page referenced along with IMB stories; it is a free E-devotional download just for you. You will need Adobe Reader to view it.

A little insight into the devotional:

"Blessed are the eyes which see the things that ye see: For I tell you, that many prophets and kings have desired to see those things which ye see, and have not seen them; and to hear those things which ye hear, and have not heard them." Luke 10:23-24

I cannot stress in words how much we are thankful for you and all you do. Over the years of our missionary experiences, you have been faithful to co-labor with us; we value your partnership. Many of you have prayed for numerous hours that souls would be saved, joined us on mission trips and given monetary support. Therefore, we wanted to collect stories of salvations, new church starts or new groups and baptisms to encourage ourselves and you with what God is doing in our harvest field (Blessings, 2009, 3).

In His Love,
Les

Taking up a hobby

There are some days on the mission field when feelings of loneliness really kick in. Being separated from immediate family and like friends from home makes it tough. Understand that I love Russia and the people, but at times I ache for what is familiar—my heart language, my roots, small town life or South Georgia country living. As I have shared with some of you personally, there is a drive that keeps me going. It must be the urgency to spread the Gospel, the burning fire within me to make a difference, my desire to please the Father, encouraging words from national partners, words of exhortation from prayer warriors and verbal motivating statements from my children and husband.

Though, the fact that the Lord gives me strength is what really sustains me. While living in Bryansk many years ago, I remember relying on Philippians 4:19. I depended only on the Lord for strength to survive. It was a very challenging time and my relationship with the Lord deepened from the experiences. It is through these times that the Lord can shape us and make us stronger vessels to be used for His service. It seems extremely difficult, though, while we are going through times of loneliness, trials, sickness, scrutiny, etc. However, we have a Father that gives us all we need. Later I realized that God was using these experiences to prepare me for the future. I can now identify better with the people I serve and understand more in their heart language. Most importantly I overcame these feelings by relating to the Father even more.

At times even in Moscow many years later, the emotion of loneliness tries to overtake me. I try to pinpoint if it is a certain time of the year that this happens. It could be when the cold weather hits or first signs of the coming season show. I know the long, “hard” days of winter are approaching. So, I revisit these previous chapters from my life that seem to repeat themselves. And recently I discovered something new that may even help with the situation, also. Taking up a hobby may be a good idea.

It has been ages since I have picked up the paint brush. I am reading about how to draw and paint, and a friend who is a professional artist has been giving me some tips. When we moved to the center of the city, Buck and the kids noticed an artist store right below us with a coffee cafe. And, my family urged me to pick out supplies and get started. Setting aside time to go into my own little world of creating a masterpiece, I figured it might help me overcome those negative feelings that stir.

I just finished the second oil painting and am studying on blending colors and ways to allow the brushstroke to enhance the picture. I can tell already that it has been good for me. This seems to help and is actually healthy for relieving stress, too.

Our Little Princess

*click photo to enlarge

Some ladies at our church call Amielle their Little Princess. And a few Sundays ago they just handed her a bouquet of flowers. I am so thankful that we have such a great church family. Here is my little girl and our friends from Golgotha.

It is an honor!

We appreciate all of you who have sacrificially given to international missions. Many SBC churches participated in "Christmas in August" for IMB efforts to send workers. Thanks for allowing us to be your missionaries. It is an honor.

In His Love,
Buck and Leslie Burch, serving with IMB in European Russia

desire mercy

Path Light: Read Hosea 6 and Matthew 9: 9-13

Key Passage: Try to understand what it means that “I will have mercy and not sacrifice.” Because I came to call sinful people, not righteous, to turn to me. -Matthew 9:13 *quotations KJV

We desire God’s mercy. Because of the mercy and compassion he shows us, we know that He loves us and wants us to know Him personally. God had pity on us; therefore, He sent His only Son, Jesus to die for us.

Also in Hosea God spoke to the Israelites concerning their form of worship, and God said, For I desire mercy and not sacrifice; and knowledge of God more than ritual offerings (Hosea 6:6). In Matthew Jesus refers to these same words of God, “have mercy.”

Path Application: God wants our hearts to be given to Him more than He wants what we bring to Him. He wants us to first acknowledge Him as the one and only God. A person may do many things in God’s name and may never know Him. Sometimes we do things in God’s name only to satisfy our desire for recognition. Accept His love and forgiveness. Acknowledge Him as Your Savior. Daily through the reading of His Word and prayer seek to learn what He wants.

Let’s show mercy, love, and kindness to everyone as Jesus showed. One example of Jesus’ concern for all people is in this passage when Jesus was eating dinner at Matthew’s house with many sinners. When the Pharisees questioned Jesus about his eating with “sinners,” Jesus mentions that He came to save those that were lost. We can in no way segregate ourselves from certain types of people. We cannot place people in categories. Jesus died for us all. We are all sinners until we accept Christ as our personal Lord and Savior. This week be challenged to identify in some way with ALL people. Do not just find yourself encompassed by believers. Look for the lost in your city. Show them mercy and compassion as Jesus did at Matthew’s table.

Eat with the lost. Jesus wants every person to believe in Him. He died for sinners. Give your whole heart and life to him, and do not build for yourself a comfortable zone around you that excludes certain types of people because of race, culture, lifestyle, or habits.

Walk Farther:
1. Do you know God personally? Do you have a strong desire to know Him better?

2. What do you need to do in order to know the Lord? What do you need to do in order to know Him better and know His desires?

3. How can we share Jesus with the lost if we are not around them? How can we tell others about Jesus if we spend all of our time only with believers?
-A Winter's Path, path 35, L. Burch, 2006

Correspondence study

I am very pleased that the Golgotha in English website is being used for study via correspondence now, too. If others are interested, feel free to contact me for questions about the study. I just posted Lesson 8 in Russian and English. Please work at your own pace.

We had a great day Sunday at Golgotha church as we had about 20 students. And this week I began receiving e-mails from a former student in another city in Russia who is working through the study online. How this blesses my heart! The plans for a new children's English program are progressing as well. We hope to soon add a time of learning and worship for school aged students, too. Thanks for your prayers.

In His Love,
Les

Sound of Old Russia

A common musical sound that one might hear in Russia is the accordion. Still played today by many, this instrument is a sound of old Russia as is the balalaika, a string guitar-like instrument. The other Sunday four church members sang a special with this one man band entitled:

“Красота Иисуса, светись во мне”

Пусть увидят во мне красоту Христа,
Всю Его чистоту и любовь всегда.
О Дух Божий, приди (приди),
Все во мне измени (измени),
Пусть увидят во мне красоту Христа.
-Songbook of Hymns #802, 2006

“Beauty of Jesus, Shine in me”

May all see the beauty of Christ in me,
All His purity and love always.
O Spirit of God, come,
Change everything in me,
May all see the beauty of Christ in me.



I did a rough translation for you to read as you listen (click play tab on video). It is difficult to explain in words the emotions that are triggered when I hear the sounds of old Russia. In America I guess it is kind of like hearing someone play the harmonica or strum on the ole banjo.

In His Love,
Les

2009-2010 Burch Ministry and School Plans

With the summer coming to a close, the Burch family is gearing up for a new school year with homeschooling and ministry plans—2009-2010. We will start our homeschooling year mid-August. Ashlyn will be in 10th, Amielle in 8th and Luke in 4th grade. Our family attends Golgotha Baptist Church in Moscow. This fall we hope to establish a house group-based English ministry through the church that will meet goals for an international 2nd worship service at the church (more youth-oriented and people group-oriented) as well as start house churches for minority people groups in Moscow. Please pray with us for at least two house groups started by next spring and four by next fall. We would like to see a leader emerge who could be sent out as a missionary/evangelist to his own people group. In a few weeks our present Sunday school class will begin a time of worship by forming a praise & worship choir. And we will be formatting and printing a book for the lessons that were written by a member of our church for the recent spiritual gifts study.

Buck also may be traveling to Serbia in October to help lead an Urban Church Planting Conference for pastors and church planters. Buck will be in Georgia, USA, in November to sign the official IMB/GBC partnership that will start a five-year relationship with Georgia Baptists and St. Petersburg and Moscow. Buck has been invited to train some young people or pastors in the Chuvash Republic and in Ruza. Leslie is praying with the pastors’ wives about starting a home group Bible study. She enjoys meeting with the ladies at Golgotha and has opened her home for a place to meet if they choose. She is also traveling in October to Latvia to help facilitate a leadership meeting among missionary leaders’ wives.

We ask for your prayers as we are moving apartments again. This will be our 7th move since we came to Russia in 1998. The board is asking us to change to another apartment in the center of Moscow in order to make room for another family moving here. We will miss our neighbors that we have come to love. Pray for us to have strength, patience and for the Lord to open up many opportunities for us to serve Him in our new “home”. Buck also covets your prayers as he is working on a Ph.D. in Applied Theology from Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary. We depend on your partnership. Thanks for being right with us during our missionary journey and feel free to pass along the E-devotional book A Winter's Path by Les.

In His Love,
Les

Witnessing in the village while picking berries

I love the different seasons of the year. Summer is a great one because of its warmth. Since we somewhat endure the winter months in Russia, we surely enjoy our brief heat wave. Yesterday we traveled an hour outside of Moscow to a dacha (summer home) to pick berries. A friend from church invited us for the day, and we enjoyed a time of fellowship, good food and fresh air.








The country atmosphere seemed nice compared to Moscow’s pace of fast life, noise and pollution. Buck and Luke also played a game of pool and chess with the man next door.

After picking berries, we prepared a meal the old-fashioned way. I washed vegetables with rain water that was collected in an outside barrel or tub. Of course, all the vegetables were grown on the spot, and we even picked some right before we ate. It was hard work preparing the meal, but the outcome was worth it. The house had no running water, so all the drinking water was brought in from a well down the street. This type of life reminded me so much of our days in Bryansk and brought back great memories.





I remember eating with the head pastor’s family in Bryansk, and we had beef, potato, carrot and onion stew that had been cooked all night in a pechka (stone hearth). All the dairy foods (i.e., sour cream, mayonnaise, cheese, etc.) were made from scratch right after milking the cow. A great taste that is unforgettable!

The day was fun and pleasant, and we even had a chance to witness to a villager. We came home with berries to put in the freezer. And now I am off to make fresh cherry tarts…

An Update- "rest and regroup"

Dear Family and Friends,
I haven’t forgotten about everyone this month. I normally post on the blog at least four times. Having just finished also pulling together, along with a team of IMB workers, a devotional guide of encouraging stories from the Russian cluster, I have taken a few weeks to rest and regroup. I thoroughly enjoyed gathering these Blessings stories about salvation experiences, new church starts, new groups and baptisms among the Russian speaking people. And the most enjoyable part of the work was staying in the Word.

While Buck has been away due to his studies and Ashlyn visiting grandparents in the states, Amielle, Luke and I have continued in Moscow. I have also been thinking through plans for the fall. I want to do exactly what God wants, not what I wish. These plans are becoming clearer as the days go by and as I continue in a prayerful attitude. While at church, Golgotha, Sunday, I was thrilled to hear from a sister in Christ about the desire for a new Bible study home group. She asked when we could start. I responded, “How about September?”

Please be in prayer about the Lord’s will in this matter and others. I still need to translate four lessons for the Golgotha in English ministry. I am presently reading from 1 and 2 Chronicles for my personal "quiet time". I have to be honest and say that I was not too eager to begin reading the historical records; however, to my surprise there were many times that I gathered something new from these books, especially concerning actions of King David. Maybe I will have more thoughts soon about my learning. Again, thanks for your continual love and support and for traveling this journey, this path, with me. I'm trying really hard to connect with you.

In His Love,
Les
-The Chosen Path, 2009

40th Birthday

Amielle, Luke and I had a great time this past week in Greece as we met colleagues and friends for a conference; it was a time for spiritual renewal, worship, fellowship, training and motivating. What made the trip extra special was my 40th birthday.

Since Buck and Ashlyn are in the states for a few weeks, I was able to celebrate this special day with many friends and people that I actually consider family. Accepting that I was turning “middle-aged” has been a process for me; however, I am admitting it now and no longer in denial. Thank you for the gifts, birthday wishes and prayers. I heard from many of you via e-mail as you noticed my name on the list in Missions Mosaic. God bless you today, too!

The trip was slightly stressful as I traveled without my best friend, Buck; but we did not miss any of the flights, and I handled the paperwork just fine. Our time of worship and renewal was wonderful. Hearing messages and singing in our heart language is always very relaxing and comforting. And the kids enjoyed a time of VBS all week. Thanks to all volunteers for traveling to bless our kids.

Interestingly, though, I found myself singing some songs in Russian. And, when we landed back in Russia, I noticed that I felt like I had returned to my comfort zone. It helped that the people at the airport treated us extra nice and even offered assistance with special documents. It was like a nice welcoming “home” present!

Speaking of home…
My thoughts are often of home. Let me explain. As I sat on the front porch swing of my family’s home place in the summer months of our stateside assignment a few years ago, it became very clear what keeps me going, other than my Lord, is the one thing that remains the same or undisturbed—home. As I have been organizing some of my journals from the past ten years, I have been defining this term home. Home is rows and rows of pine trees planted across the acreage, gorgeous farm land in a rain storm, the sound of droplets of water falling from a tin roof, antique farm equipment decorating the front yard, an old picket fence, sound of crickets at dusk, batches of mistletoe in the old oak tree, sitting down for dinner and conversing about the small town news, etc. I could continue with many thoughts, but the real definition of home and who we really are is not totally these things.

The who we are has been shaped and formed by the many people that have invested their time in us and the many places and opportunities we have seen or lived to experience. You know the feeling you get when you look through an old photo album or sit and watch a slideshow from your picture files on your computer screen saver. You get that warm sensation while glancing at those photos, you notice how the kids grew over the years, recognize how your looks changed, recall the places you have visited and reminisce about the people that crossed your path.

That is what it has been like for me these past few years. Now that I have turned 40, I wish that I knew in the beginning what I know now and somehow matured miraculously years ago. As I have said before: We pass a moment only once and what we gain or take from that instant is up to us. Sometimes we make mistakes, but we do not let them force us to give up. We learn from them and actually push forward because of the knowledge we gained from the incident. As I look through my so called album, I recognize that God has definitely been good! God led me down a certain path, thus helping give a title to my meanderings. Maybe one day I will be brave enough to share all my thoughts on paper.

Thanks for making my 40th birthday so special and keeping up with what is going on in our lives; we look forward to helping you connect more with the Russian speaking people in our area this next season.
-The Chosen Path, L.Burch

SBC news

For current news about “SBC green-lights Great Commission Task Force”, I referenced this article link from Baptist Press for you. Thanks to all in your commitment for church planting, renewal, revival and spreading the Good News. Let's be in prayer for President Johnny Hunt and the appointed 19 members of the task force panel.

In His Love,
Les
Serving in European Russia with IMB

Steps to take to enter into a personal relationship

Step 1: Believe in the Son of God.
God wants us to have a life that is eternal; therefore, he sent His Son so this would be possible (John 3:16). We only need to believe in the Son, and we receive this gift of everlasting life. With this gift a promise is given to us that we are now seen as justified. This righteousness is not received by what you do but received because of what Jesus Christ did at Calvary. We are placed in right relationship with the Father. The Father will see the Son in you (Romans 10:9-10).

Step 2: Repent and turn away from your sins.
The word repent in Greek, the original language of the New Testament, is metanoeo meaning to change one’s way of thinking. The word also has the connotation of actually changing your purpose in life. In 2 Corinthians 7:10, we read that worldly sorrow will lead us to death. We need not only be ashamed because we were caught in sin but also be sorrowful enough to make a change in our lives and run from sin.

I have met many people who think that they need to get their lives in order before they come to God. They feel as if they need to clean up the sin or bad habits before having a personal relationship with Him. We need to think the opposite. First we approach God with a repentant heart, and He will help us to stop those bad habits. Only through the power of the Holy Spirit can we win over temptation that can lead to sin. In Acts 3:19 we read that our sins can be wiped out. God forgets our sins once we have repented, and we can feel as if we are starting a new life. Actually we are starting a new life in Christ once we accept Him. The Bible says, “…the times of refreshing shall come…” (Acts 3:19). We are a new person in Him. In Luke 13:1-9, we can clearly read that the choice is ours. If we do not repent, we will die.

Step 3: Confess Jesus as Lord.
We should not be ashamed of the Lord but confess Him as our Savior (Romans 10:9-10). The Bible says that with our mouth we confess. Believe in your heart that He is Lord. Confess with your mouth. That is putting some action to your belief. The word, confess, here seems to express speaking out. Shout out that He is Lord! Live every day as if it is your last day for sharing about Jesus. Share with others what you are holding dear in your heart. Let your joy overflow to others. Make them wonder what you have in your life that is so special. Help them have a life full of happiness.

Step 4: Accept Him by faith in Jesus Christ.
Your faith in God proves that you are loyal to Him. It is fidelity to your agreement. Allow God to give you the faith you need. Sometimes people wonder if their faith is genuine. The Bible defines faith as “the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen” (Hebrews 11:1). Pray to the Father for strong faith. Jesus said to His disciples in Mark 11 that whatever they ask for in His name, if they believe that they will receive it, it would be theirs. This verse applies to you as well. Ask the Father to give you faith in Him, and He will. Jesus said in Mark 11:23, “For verily I say unto you, That whosoever shall say unto this mountain, Be thou removed, and be thou cast into the sea; and shall not doubt in his heart, but shall believe that those things which he saith shall come to pass; he shall have whatsoever he saith.”


Step 5: Trust in God's Word for assurance.
In I John 5:13 the Bible says that we can KNOW that we have eternal life. We may have times when we doubt our salvation, but we can always turn in God’s Word and gain reassurance. Perhaps there are periods in our lives when we doubt our salvation. However, Satan would want us to continue to doubt God’s Word and doubt ourselves. The devil is pleased when we are not confident of what God did for us at the cross. We are breaking fellowship with the Father when we are not assured of our relationship with Him. Settle your doubts by reading the Bible and praying. We will be discussing more in this study about seeing evidence of the Fruits of the Spirit in our lives as another way to assure us of our salvation. Also, we can check for evidence of fruit being produced in our work for the Lord. Remember we gain security only in Him not in our works. Our work for the Lord shows our gratitude to Him.

Step 6: Read and meditate on the Word of God.
We should read and memorize God’s Word (Psalms 119:11). The word for meditate in Hebrew, the original language of the Old Testament, is hagah and may have several meanings. Let’s focus on meditate, speak and moan. In Psalm 1:2 and Joshua 1:8 the word is used in this context. This word is interesting because in our relationship to God and His Word, we want to be able to meditate on Him and His Word day and night. If we concentrate on Him and read His Word constantly, we are placing His Word in our hearts.

Another word for meditate may be think, plan, brood, etc. What does brood mean? When a mother bird sits (broods) on her young in the nest, she stays for a period of time, cares and nourishes them. We must cherish God’s Word as a mother bird does her young. Spend time in His Word. Meditating and understanding God’s Word begin during times when we sit (brood) and read His Book. We will have moments when we will need to be prepared to speak His word from memory. We may not have the Bible in our hands. How can we speak in public about God’s truths if we have not meditated on these truths in private?

I can also identify with the word moan. There have been times in my prayer life when no words or thoughts would come to mind to speak. These thoughts may have come in the form of cries or verbal moaning. Sometimes in our Christian lives, we experience times of utter despair and confusion. Maybe at these times we were trying to survive on our own. Maybe we were just at a point in our spiritual walk with the Lord, and He wanted us to rely on Him for strength. During moments like this, I literally cried out Psalm 22 like David cried while in despair. Whether His Words are meditated, spoken or moaned, let them be hidden in our hearts, so our relationship with the Father can be intertwined as if we were one in spirit.

Let’s make a goal in our lives to dwell on God’s positive thoughts. We can learn of His thoughts by making a commitment to daily read His Scripture. Our thoughts and ways are not His thoughts and ways. His thoughts and ways are much higher than ours (Isaiah 55:8-9). The only way that we are going to understand the Father is spend time with Him. Spend time reading His Message to you. All answers for life can be solved through prayer and reading of Scripture.
-A Woman's Path to God, L. Burch

This may be your first time ever to think about these steps. If you have any further questions or thoughts, please feel free to comment below. I would love to hear from you.
In His Love,
Les

How to have a personal relationship with the Father

Have you ever thought about these two questions: 1) Am I sure that I have a personal relationship with the Father? 2) Am I at peace in knowing where I will be when I die? If your answer to either of these questions is “no” or “I am not sure,” ask the following question: What does it take for me to have a personal relationship with the Father? You can begin a remarkable relationship with the Father when you say yes to His offer of salvation.

His desire in creating us was for us to have fellowship with Him. You can take steps that will lead you to a personal relationship with the Father. God is ready to draw (near) to you (James 4:8). Realize that God created you in His image (Genesis 1:26), and He wants to communicate with you through the reading of His Word.

How is this possible? The Holy Spirit comes to live within us at the moment of our belief. We receive the promised Holy Spirit, the seal, who marks us as His children (Ephesians 1:13). And our understanding of the Scriptures is possible only through Him. He opens our minds to understanding which leads to wisdom.

Steps to take to enter into a personal relationship

Step 1: Believe in the Son of God.
Step 2: Repent and turn away from your sins.
Step 3: Confess Jesus as Lord.
Step 4: Accept Him by faith in Jesus Christ.
Step 5: Trust in God's Word for assurance.
Step 6: Read and meditate on the Word of God.

-A Woman's Path to God, L. Burch

In the next post, Steps to Take to Enter into a Personal Relationship, I would like to explain these steps in more detail. Please read through these carefully or share them with a loved one or friend; He desires for us to know Him personally.
In His Love,
Les

A Mother's Joy...

These people are my joy. I thank the Lord for my family. There are some days on the mission field when feelings of loneliness kick in. Being separated from immediate family and like friends from home makes it tough some days. Please understand that I love Russia and the people, but at times I ache for what is familiar--one could say this would be my heart language, my roots, small town life or South GA country living. However, there is a drive that keeps me going. It may be the urgency to spread the Gospel, the burning fire within me to make a difference, my desire to please the Father, encouraging words from national partners, words of exhortation from prayer warriors and verbal motivating statements from my children and husband.

Lately I have felt impressed to spend quality time with my children. I do not want to look back one day and say "I wish I had done _______(fill in the blank) with Ashlyn, Amielle or Luke before they left home." I will make great memories. And truthfully they help cure my moments of "loneliness". We just finished a successful home school year. I praise the Lord that I get to teach my own children. I get to spend time with them 24/7.


I now have a 4th, 8th and 10th grader in the house. Since we are finishing the school year and have more free time, I am setting aside certain days for each child. It seems wise to spend a little individual time together.





A mother may be surprised what she hears when she gives a child her undivided attention. And I do not know why I have to remind myself over and over again that a great way to solve my own "so-called problems" is invest my time and attention in others. So, here are a few family pics entitled A Mother's Joy.

A Winter's Path

Over the past couple of months, friends have asked how to get a copy of my earlier writings. Unfortunately there are no more hard copies of either work left. This month I prayed about how to make at least one of these available again. If your church is interested in having access to or if you would like a personal copy, click here for a free E-Devotional Book:
A Winter's Path

An ocean divides but prayers unite the two

Yesterday at Golgotha in Moscow, Russia, during the Sunday School hour, I visited one of the ladies' classes to share how my mother's Sunday class in America was praying for them, especially for Olga has she continues to write the Bible study lessons for the English class.

Every Sunday it is evident that the ladies at Golgotha are thrilled to be in church and learning more about the Lord. They are really studying God's Word with a strong passion. We read from Philippians how every time we pray we thank God for you with joy (Phil. 1:3-4). I mentioned that I never fully understood this verse until I became a missionary and lived in Bryansk, Russia, years ago when times were tough. And I just knew that family and friends back home were praying for me. I learned another lesson, too. When you are going through tough times, you should focus on others and pray for them with joy. I began praying for those around me and my problems seemed to disappear.

Yesterday the ladies at Golgotha were so pleased to hear that other ladies in America are praying for them. I even asked for a specific prayer request sheet. They handed me one immediately. I will translate this list and pass it on to the ladies' class at Southside Baptist Church in McRae, Georgia. Though an ocean divides the two countries geographically, the prayers bring them together in heart. I live in Russia as one of your missionaries, and I thank the Lord that I have an opportunity to pass on your thoughts to other brothers and sisters in Christ for encouragement. So, yesterday, dear ladies--you who trained me in the Lord--of Southside, I was your voice; I hope I made you proud.

Earnestly Request Mercy

How we should be ashamed and repent! Do we see our ugliness? Are we begging for mercy? We should seek forgiveness with a strong passion, because our sins are being spelled out to us letter by letter and verse by verse.

If we study Ezekiel 36 in order to comprehend what is actually taking place, we notice evidence of God’s grace. In verse 32 God says that He is not showing mercy for their sake. This is a clear picture of a loving God. All throughout this book, the Sovereign Lord calls the children of Israel to listen to His Words. The phrase often repeated is: “Hear the word of the Lord.” This is a command.

Time after time they were given the opportunity to heed the warning. However, Israel sinned over and over again, and God continually called for them to repent just as He calls for us to turn from our sinful—fleshly—ways. He wants to cleanse us from our ugliness (verse 25). He will give us a “new heart” and a “new spirit” (verse 26). God will take away our hard, unclean, dirty, black, sinful nature and bring us into a “land” where He will be our God (verse 28). By His grace we are called His own.

We have seen God’s wrath and judgment throughout the entire book. God provides a summary for us in this section. Multiple times He has spoken of His intent, fiery and jealous anger, but now He had pity on the children of Israel yet again. They are reminded, though, in verse 32 to “be ashamed” and sorrowful for their actions.

All we have to do is a complete turn around entrusting ourselves to Him. Fear God, repent, submit to His Sovereignty, experience His love and receive His blessings. It is that easy. With a repentant heart, we see our filthiness before Him just as the children of Israel did.

After reading this chapter, I was convinced even more than before that God’s love is only understood after we comprehend His wrath and vice verse. They must be explained together. Interestingly it may be wiser not to use the phrase “we must have a balance” in teaching these two attributes; we must simply teach both, not one without the other. If our true desire is to know Him, we cannot pick and choose what we want to accept. That is why often these days the Word is being “adapted” to fit a way of lifestyle to make everyone feel comfortable (See earlier post, 5-13-09).

And I realize once again that we must watch out, because dangers are present yet hidden all around us. Be careful for there are false prophets in disguise everywhere (Matthew 7:15). Buck and I were discussing Romans 3:10-18. He said that we see the “ultimate end of a group of people who have replaced the righteousness of God with their own creation”. Unfortunately there is no fear of God. They do not know peace and their mouths utter words of death (verses 14; 17-18). The sad part is Satan is slowly luring people into a level of comfort unaware. Subtle untrue, negative lies and statements have briefly been fed from some media savvy government officials, “pastors”, writers of “fiction”, family and friends to diminish our levels of tolerance for the Truth. Just as with the children of Israel, we have allowed other beliefs, bad theology and idols in our midst.

What can we do? Pay attention and do not let anything be a substitute for God’s Word. And may we not be guilty of the same sins as Israel! God please have mercy on us for we are sinners. Save us from our sins. We ask for forgiveness. God promises that He will “save you from all your uncleannesses” (verse 29). And He will pour out His blessings (verses 29-30; 37-38). Praise God because of Jesus’ sacrificial death on the cross, we are cleansed as “white as snow” (Isaiah 1:18).
-The Chosen Path, L. Burch, 2009

Follow on twitter

Follow @lesburch on twitter - Thought-provoking questions for spiritual reflection.
*Click on title or lesburch

Preaching and teaching is rarely confrontational or exegetical anymore; it is conversational.

Do we really understand the wrath of God we read about in the Old Testament? How is that same wrath displayed in the New Testament? The answer has to be found in Jesus’ sacrificial death on the cross. This is a topic we generally do not want to think about. Maybe it is because we do not understand it. If the truth be known, maybe it is because we do not want to picture such a loving God in this manner. God cannot tolerate sin. I have been reading in the book of Ezekiel lately, and we read multiple times about the Sovereign Lord bringing judgment on the nations. God will judge each according to his own deeds (Ezekiel 33:20). This is Truth just as much as the fact that God is Love (1 John 4:16). He sent His own Son to die such a cruel death because of our sins. He is our only way to the Father. Jesus is our mediator.

I am really concerned about my home country right now. America looks drastically different than it did 11 years ago. I have been removed from the scenes for this extended period of time. My dad said the other day that maybe I can see things better because I have been taken out of the picture. I remember how things were, and I recognize how much things have changed. I realize that times change and people change, but God’s Word never changes. It is as if people have been snoozing and are not aware of what is taking place around them. It is a shame that things have to get so bad before anyone pays attention. It is time to wake up. Not all, but I am afraid many, have lost sight of this fact and do not want to think about the wrath of God. They only want to focus on the topic of love.

Today it seems that the Word needs to be “adapted” to fit a way of lifestyle or way of thinking just to make everyone happy. This is very dangerous. We cannot adapt the Word to satisfy us; the Word should be the standard that we live by. I made some conclusions about these concerns. In the general population of spiritual teachers and speakers, preaching and teaching is rarely confrontational or exegetical anymore; it is conversational. That is, rarely do preachers critically explain; they comfortably pacify these days.

We attempt to whitewash our faults instead of expose them for repair. Have you ever whitewashed a fence or the side or your house? The fact is that this thin coat just touches up the ugly spots. It is time to fix the damaged spots and put on a fresh coat of paint. Call black “black” and white “white”; do not compromise and call it grey. Therefore, call sin “sin”.

The Word says:
* “If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us.” (1 John 1:8)
* “But now being made free from sin, and become servants to God, ye have your fruit unto holiness, and the end everlasting life. For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.” (Romans 6:22-23)

We need to beware of false teaching and doctrines and hold ourselves accountable to God’s Word.
* “Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves.” (Matthew 7:15)
* “But there were false prophets also among the people, even as there shall be false teachers among you, who privily shall bring in damnable heresies…And many shall follow their pernicious ways; by reason of whom the way of truth shall be evil spoken of. And through covetousness shall they with feigned words make merchandise of you: whose judgment now of a long time lingereth not, and their damnation slumbereth not.” (2 Peter 2: 1-3)
* “For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.” (Hebrews 4:12)

We can rejoice in the fact that the Father knows us, loves us and calls us “the sons of God”, and remember that He understands that the world does not know us, “because it knew him not” (1 John 3:1). It is time to stand up and not be ashamed anymore. Let’s hold to the Book and teach verse by verse. This is not a time to converse or discover the Truth. I would venture to say the dangers of the emerging church, for example, can be equated with the belief of evolution. Everything and everyone gradually evolves from what already exists. The Gospel Message no longer needs to be compromised. There is only one way that leads to repentance and one way that leads to life and one way that leads to truth—Jesus (John 14:6).
-The Chosen Path, L. Burch, 2009

Russian Evangelical Christian Movement

This was a wonderful conference with the purpose to unite all Evangelical Christian churches who share common conservative Baptistic doctrine and evangelistic spirit. This conference was a celebration of 100 years of Russian Evangelical Christian Movement, founded by Prokhanov with a view to win souls. Buck was able to attend and was even picked up for a few seconds on Russian TV.
*the title above will direct you to the link

back to the basics

In the past 11 years, the world has changed drastically. The areas of the world in most need of the Gospel are not the same either. I would even say that America now is in just as much need of the Gospel as many other countries. Buck was just sharing with me that Africa and some Latin American countries have more Christians than any other part of the world. There has also been a decline in membership of our Southern Baptist Churches in America and an increase in the interest of other religions like Islam, Buddhism and so forth. We are even noticing on the mission field that there has been a huge shift in missions and international needs.

There are still small pockets of unreached peoples, but in general Russia is not a pioneer field. We are still assured that the doors of Russia were opened for this specific time in history, and I will always be grateful that I am here to serve. Though, the question still remains in my mind, one in which I feel we must constantly revisit: What parts of the world have limited access to the Gospel? I would add another question today: Where do I fit in in this equation to bring change to the world?

These have always been underlining goals, but I am more convinced than ever before that I (we) need to get back to the basics, that is, abiding in Him (John 15). Only through that can we know for sure what we are to “do” for Him on a day-to-day basis and where we are to serve. We are promised in John 15:5: “I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing.” And again we are told in verse 4 and 11 that the branch cannot bear fruit if it does not abide in the source—the vine—of its joy; our joy which is to remain full.

I have dreams of what I want to be involved in, what I want to do and how I want to serve the Lord with my family, but no dream or act can surpass my desire to first remain in Him. This requires time. A time deemed as valuable, and a time that I ache to spend with Him. If Christians are going to “impact the world”, a phrase often used in our Baptist arena, we have to abide in Him. That constitutes more than just an initial repentance; it requires a commitment to a personal ongoing relationship-building with the Father. A great place to start is the beginning. If we are not careful, we venture to fulfill our own ideas and accomplish our own agenda, though, often achieving great things for Him; unfortunately, we have somewhat left our first love (Revelation 2: 4).

If we could give or do anything for the Lord, it would be to abide in Him. The fruit will automatically be produced, because the source distributes the nutrients needed for fostering fruit. This growth begins in me first. I came to the conclusion earlier in my meanderings that prayer was the key to make a difference. The next step was to allow the Master Artist to actually paint the strokes. Here we are honestly submitting to Him. Maybe it is the how or the means by which we can persevere, but we have to abide in Him.

If the Christians of America, Russia or any other country are going to make a stand for Him, we must return to our first love. God will assure us that we are just where He wants us and lead us to fit into the equation to bring change to the world. Otherwise, we are never going to be able to regain our position as a people that “stand up” for Christ. There is a danger when a person distances oneself from the Source. The Bible says: “If a man abide not in me, he is cast forth as a branch, and is withered; and men gather them, and cast them into the fire and they are burned.” (verse 6)

Abide.
-The Chosen Path, L. Burch, 2009