Happy Holidays!

How to store a lasting memory...

"You probably know that I don’t like the word “goodbye” and rarely use it anymore; I prefer “see you soon”. I have come to understand why over the years. When I left home 12 years ago to live in Russia, I knew that I may never see some of my loved ones again. It is hard for me to explain the feelings that surface when I get on a plane and travel to the other side of the world. A place away from home. Each time I leave I have this little routine I go through. I don’t know if you noticed, but I would make a very special effort to look one last time in your eyes and take a mental picture of your faces. I blink my eyelids like a camera lens to store a lasting memory. Then I turn, walk away and don’t look back." -The Chosen Path, L.Burch

This is a small excerpt from the book I just finished about our missionary experiences. When my grandmother passed away this year and I was unable to attend the funeral, I shared these words with my family about how I store a lasting memory. What an appropriate time to share this section as we leave from this side of the ocean on Saturday! It is hard to say "goodbye" on either side of the "big pond".
In His Love,
Les

Bless others and you will be blessed...

I cannot begin to explain how thankful I am. Words, unfortunately, can in no way express the magnitude of joy that I feel. Our family decided to cook a Thanksgiving dinner for the English group at Golgotha. I felt impressed to prepare a traditional American meal for our friends. Of course, the most important part of the day was the fellowship with one another.



There was a time to share testimonies of how God has worked in the lives of the members. As they wait in long lines to purchase fresh milk, one couple shared how they have been reading the Bible together daily and how blessed they have been. They hope others will see their happiness and desire to read the Bible with them. Who knows? Maybe there will be a future Bible study group that starts.


Another young man said that God has blessed him in his job this year. There were many such testimonies. I was very pleased to have a friend’s husband join us. We praise the Lord that he has not been dependent on alcohol for a year. He told me that he is finding his way to God now. Praise the Lord that he is closer today than he was yesterday.


God has shown me this year that we are to be faithful and obey in the task He gives us regardless of the size of the group—large or small. God knows the outcome of my efforts; I do not have to know all the plans from the beginning. I will see fruit if my desires are in harmony with Christ’s. Bless others and you will be blessed. I thank God for this day—November 25, 2010.

In His Love,
Les

GBC partnership video interview

A Message from J. Robert White, Executive Director of Georgia Baptist Convention; Moscow/ St.Pete Partnership
Click here for the video interview we had via internet with Dr. White.
Thanks churches for all you do for missions!
In His Love,
Les

Burch Family Update

The past few months have been busy. A lot of good things happening! I posted numerous, recent photos on my blog. We have been involved in VBS, weddings, conferences and have welcomed a new missionary to the field. We celebrated our 12th year anniversary in August for serving in Russia with IMB. Last month we even had the privilege of having Dr. O.S. and Susie Hawkins in our home as well as Jim Jewell from Sherwood Baptist in Albany. I’ve been editing my personal journal from the past decade into book format. I hope to have these notes in order by Christmas. We are looking forward to our stateside assignment and will be living in Albany at Sherwood's mission home. We will be home Dec. 2010-Aug. 2011. God bless you all. Thanks for your prayers! Check out my blog posts when you have a moment.
In His Love,
Les

Fall Family Photos

Dear Family and Friends,
I hope to write more soon. I have just been doing a lot of editing this month on a personal writing project, and we have been busy with mission work. All good! Plus we are preparing for stateside which will be soon. See ya in December! I'll be home for Christmas...literally. God bless!
In His Love,
Les

Birthday month

This month has been all about pictures. We have had event after event. My girls turned 14 and 16 this year. I think we celebrated all month long. Here are a few photo shots for you:





By the way, prayer warriors, we have 85 more days till stateside assignment. We are looking forward to seeing many of you. Thanks for your support.
In His Love,
Les

VBS week at Golgotha Baptist

Last week was a full week of Vacation Bible School at Golgotha. Buck taught the oldest group. The family was able to join him for the last two days of events. I was so thrilled that we were able to go, because I had several witnessing opportunities. I talked with one man on the street; he was just passing by and wondered about the activities. Standing in costume on the street, I shared with him about Jesus. I also spoke with parents who were enjoying the festivities and refreshments at the church.

I am convinced more than ever how important it is for believers to be in harmony and use our spiritual gifts to compliment one another. Many church members were there serving in different capacities. It seemed as if everyone knew whose job was whose--some cooked the meals and snacks, some taught the lessons, some shared the Good News in testimony, some cleaned the building, etc. We all worked together to make the school a success. I can truly say: At Golgotha Baptist Church, you will find a family of believers working together!
In His Love,
Les

Do you have a quiet time with God? When?

seek His face

1. Do you have a quiet time with God? When?

2. Describe a time when you feel like God was using a circumstance to get your attention.

3. How can you help someone who may have trouble hearing God’s voice?

Read Hosea 5
Key Passage: …when they are hurting, they will seek my face early. -Hosea
5:15b

Israel was being judged in the book of Hosea. Sometimes it was very hard to get their attention (Hosea 5:1). We repeatedly read in scripture how God pleaded for them to listen to His voice. We see many times how they failed to heed God’s warnings and His commands. May we hear His voice when He wants our attention! May we not fail to seek His face before it is too late!

Application:
Let’s pray that we will seek His face in all areas of our lives. We do not want to wait until it is too late or until we have so fallen into a state of ultimate misery that a rescue seems impossible.
-A Winter's Path, L. Burch

gentle words

Devotion:
Read Proverbs 15
Key Passage: Answering someone calmly diffuses anger, but antagonistic
words inflame the situation. -Proverbs 15:1

1. Do you find it difficult to get along with some people? With whom do you
argue most?

2. Is it ever hard for you to think before you say harsh words?

3. Pray for this person by name and ask God to prepare you with gentle words for your next encounter.

Prayer:
Dear Lord, may all my words be gentle ones. Help me to choose carefully the right words to say. Even in times and conversations that seem to be controversial, I pray that I can steer discussions to show gentleness, kindness, and love.

Application:
Take a break time today/this week just for yourself to relax and do something that you enjoy so that your level of tolerance and patience will be intact. Also, throughout the week make a list of as many kind words as possible. Remember these words and use them when needed to warrant off feelings of anger in others or within yourself.
-Path 7, A Winter's Path, L. Burch

My first Russian kiss. 12 years ago.

August marks our 12 year "anniversary" in Russia.

From Georgia, USA, we transferred planes in Germany. The plane ride from Frankfurt was rough, and the turbulence was difficult. The AC went out. I had to take deep breaths. Then I exited the largest plane I had ever flown in and planted my feet on Russian soil in Moscow about 1:30 PM on a Monday in August of 1998. Foreign soil. Interestingly it was about 85 degrees that day, very hot and humid. My almost four year old daughter, Ashlyn, asked, “But where is the snow?” We all had on about three to four layers of clothing expecting frigid weather. However, within a few weeks, the temperature dropped to 52 degrees.

We were moved to the front of the line at passport control because of our small children. After we stepped out of customs, I looked around for the first time and all I saw was the color grey. That is somehow the way I felt. I did not know what to expect, what to think, or what to do. I was just there. Then the next thing I knew I was riding down a polluted street filled with old cars that looked as if they were made in the 1960s, and the only thing I could do was watch building after building pass. They all looked the same to me.

I will continue to describe my first impressions. With my two daughters and husband, we traveled to a small apartment that was to be our home for the next month. We pulled up on the north side of town to a run-down building with graffiti all over the walls. We walked up a flight of stairs with all of our luggage and footlocker trunks and entered a coded door that slammed behind us. We proceeded up a flight of stairs and stepped into a soviet style lift. The bars closed on us, and we traveled upward to our destination on the third floor. The only city that I could possibly relate it to was New York City. I had heard about the Bronx but never lived there. The apartment complex was next to a main street and housed thousands of people.

As I walked into a stuffy apartment, interestingly I immediately looked for toilet paper. One of my fears was that I would not have any. I remembered from MLC (Missionary Learning Center) that some missionaries were crating such household items; though, we could not crate into Russia. We could only arrive with a few trunks.

I know. It is silly the things that we worry about some time, and one of my concerns was arriving in a country that did not sell toilet paper. As I looked around, I noticed a small yellowish-brown hard roll of paper in the corner of a dirty, dusty bathroom. Well, there it was, though not as soft. Incidentally the toilet was just as yellowish-brown as the paper. Apparently the rusted water had stained the fixture. Also there was plaster everywhere, too. Someone had just remodeled the bathroom but forgot to clean up! Then I walked through to the kitchen and found that our missionary colleagues had left us a basket full of goodies. I took a deep breath, straightened my shoulders, and decided that I was going to make it.

Though I was exhausted from traveling nearly 24 hours, I began my duties as a mother to get the house ready for my family. After cleaning the apartment of plaster particles, I distinctly remember finding a bag of freshly washed sheets on our bed. I opened the sack and covered my face with the smell of fresh fabric softener. Thanks missionary family! I once again thought I would survive. Here are some of my thoughts from the first few days in country.

I’m getting used to life here. We can only do about one major thing a day as it takes hours to get anywhere. Just a ride on the metro (underground subway) and bus and back takes three hours. And that’s the fastest way! We went to McDonald’s today. Unfortunately on the way home, we got on the wrong bus, and it carried us on a wrong turn. We had to walk a little extra. On each street going in a certain direction, there is a specific number on the bus. You must get on the right one. We are definitely getting good exercise walking.

I bought some chicken for the first time today. It’s funny. You have to look for what you want, write down how much it cost, what department it is in, go to another place to pay for it, show your receipt to the product-person, and finally get your items. No grocery sacks either. You have to bring your own bags. But most everything that we need is right here around us. Don’t know what it will be like in Bryansk.

Buck’s having difficulty adjusting to the dairy products; they’re shelved, not chilled. 1.8% milk tastes a lot like buttermilk. The cheese is the same way. Uncle Rufus was right about the shelf milk. However, Amielle (my two year old daughter) loves the milk because it tastes very sweet.

It took me four hours to fix supper last night. When I had opened and closed the oven door, the pilot light went out. I did not know. I wash all the vegetables in diluted Clorox water. Everything here takes time. However, I’m faster today. I think I’m getting used to it.
-Journal August 8-9, 1998

Even in the first few years, I wrote:

We have fewer canned and prepared goods here; therefore, most is done from scratch. I have experienced quite a lot since we have been here. At times I have had success, and at times file 13 enjoyed the rejects. One success was a beautiful cake. However, we made moderations on the frosting. The "7 minute frosting" turned out to be a beautiful icing. The egg whites just don't fluff the same though. Maybe one day I will learn the secret touch. (February 2000)

In many ways God showed us that we were welcome in Russia. The Russian people had been smiling at us and talking to the kids as we traveled on the streets of Moscow. A few days after our arrival, a Russian lady we did not know selling flowers handed Ashlyn a small bouquet and a little old lady chased us down the street to hand the kids some old coins from the former Soviet Union. The missionaries said that this never happens.

In our first few days in the country, we had attended a Russian church service that lasted for two hours. The services were held in a hallway of an apartment complex with a few rooms on the side. And some people travel an hour to get to church. We could not understand anything in the language or the customs. The language is going to be hard.

Out of kindness a Russian babushka (grandmother) shared the hymn book with me. A missionary friend translated that I could not read Russian. I will never forget. The lady looked at me and said, “You will.” Then she kissed me on the cheek. My first Russian kiss.
-The Chosen Path, L. Burch

August is here.

August is here. Look! It's harvest time. Gather the fruit for life everlasting! (Jn 4:34-36)

Free E-booklet (Bible Study) in Russia

A new, free E-booklet has been posted on the side of my blog. This Russian Bible study for women is available as a witnessing tool. It is also a study on how to know the Father better.

The first chapter is about: How to begin a personal relationship with the Father.
The remaining lessons discuss: Trust, Love, Assurance, etc.

When we lived in Bryansk, I wrote these lessons while leading small group Bible studies. As Russian women asked questions each week, I jotted them down. I then developed this study based on their inquiries and personal interviews. It is presently being used for witnessing opportunities. I listed six steps for beginning a personal relationship with the Father. The remaining chapters are also used as a source for discipleship. At this time the booklet has only been published in Russian; however, I am presently editing the English translation. Feel free to download this for your Russian friends. Click directly on the book photo on the side bar or here: A Woman's Path to God (ЖЕНСКИЙ ПУТЬ К БОГУ).

I have documented more ideas for discussion on "Women Partnering Cross-Culturally". This concludes this series of blog postings. As far as implementation of these ideas, feel free to contact me personally and hopefully soon these facts will be available for review in print form. Thanks for your interest about partnerships. God bless and have a great day!
In His Love,
Les

Goals 3,4, & 5 Partnering Cross-Culturally

Desires three, four and five...continued...

Click to review goals for partnering here.
Click to review goals one and two here.

Desires three and four provide a way that will lead speakers and coordinators to efficiently undertake a challenge not only to teach others but also to learn from their new experiences. Speakers and coordinators can better learn how to lead and pass on knowledge (ideas) that will prayerfully help others feel comfortable to use in their areas. As far as the steps that are taken or the actual messages that were to be given, at first I had no insight in this matter of where to begin.

The fifth desire consisted of organizing a panel for discussion among coordinators, speakers, leaders, and missionaries wherein each person could learn from one another how to create an effective conference as well as a comfortable environment for one. If so, there should be some way that these participants could collaborate with one another regardless of geographical boundaries. Communication was necessary; therefore, I encouraged the interaction among the organizers on a regular basis.

Apart from the desire to implement effectively these ideas and goals, I hoped that all women involved, whether those organizing, speaking, or participating, would be fed spiritually during the preparation time and conference.

In the beginning I had a feeling that this task would be very hard to complete. But with much prayer and direction from the Lord, I knew that all things are possible with Him (Matthew 19:26). We may feel unqualified, but anyone who follows the will of the Lord will be given from Him the ability to succeed.

When I first contacted the Russian sister, she was skeptical for two reasons. She desired pastoral approval and did not know that we already had it. She did not personally know the volunteers that would be speaking at the conference and wanted to receive biographies to first understand their hearts. So, I knew that I must get busy, because the job was going to be difficult yet also pleasing. That is, I had to accomplish her desires and to help her understand that it was all possible if we worked together.

However, by the tone of her voice I noticed that she was especially skeptical of the idea of organizing a conference with volunteers. In the past some volunteers have come to accomplish their desires and have not been sensitive to the culture and desires of the people that they are coming to minister to and help.

When organizing a conference, it is a plus to have a veteran coordinator or missionary involved in the planning. It also helps to first have the approval of the national pastors and the trust of the brothers and sisters of the church in place before the women’s director (head national leader) is approached.

With these beginning desires and steps, I look forward to sharing more with you about the direction I took. I wanted the conference to allow its participants to grow spiritually and eventually learn how to build a women’s ministry of their own.
-The Chosen Path, L. Burch, "goals in ministry"

Explanation of Goals

Continued topic on Partnering with Women Cross-culturally (earlier post)...

I experienced great joy on the field as I took part in ladies’ conferences. In the first few years of our service, I always dreamed of having seminars for ladies in the Russian churches in coordination with American volunteers. The men would have events together, but I did not see a great amount of activity with the ladies. I was able to participate in a couple of conferences in St. Pete. With much satisfaction I was involved in some of the greatest events in all my years as a missionary. Overall the Russian sisters thoroughly enjoyed the topics and joining hearts with other sisters of like belief. The nationality differences were forgotten and did not interfere with the delivery or hearing of the message. Plus, the brothers were receptive in allowing the ladies to participate more openly in active service, whereas in the past men mostly dominated any activity in the church.

While helping coordinate the conferences, I listed these goals for implementing an effective women’s conference cross-culturally. Having goals for a women’s conference can make a coordinator’s (e.g., on-field missionary or stateside volunteer) job easier. If a person has a desire to do a conference, she can talk with someone who has actually planned and implemented one, thus providing her with personalized understanding. Coordinators have much to gain from both planning and doing a conference, but communicating with someone who has had experience can be very beneficial.

After praying and deciding on desired goals, I made certain conclusions. I organized meetings between Russian sisters, American volunteers and myself (a missionary) that proved to be very useful. Then I reflected upon the team’s thoughts and wishes and compared those to the desires of others, thus giving me the opportunity to learn more how to plan an effective women’s conference cross-culturally. It pays to listen. After all, the conference is intended for them.

I chose to work with the head director of the women’s ministry at a central church in Saint Petersburg, Russia. Also, initially I corresponded by e-mail with the leader of the women’s ministry of a local church in the states which planned a volunteer trip to Russia to assist in a two day conference. Until I began the process, I knew very little about the steps to pursue this task. What I had desired to happen for eight years was very realistic and how it would benefit the churches in this area seemed hopeful, but I was very interested in finding out if the conference would actually be a success. I hoped that a coordinator could combine the two cultures without any hard feelings or unsatisfactory mishaps. I did not have a full understanding of how that would work other than to prayerfully work hard to unite the two over several weeks of collaborating. In order for this to happen, I had to start early. I needed to knit the two together by helping them understand one another better.

Two desires I listed were for the speakers to be dedicated to those attending and to understand the topics that they were to share and sensitively know how to share those topics. The goals need to be healthy, spiritual and productive methods for interaction between coordinators, speakers and participants of the conference. Along with this interaction, I encouraged that the coordinator and speakers improve in relationships with nationals. A speaker in most cases can know her or his participants better by also knowing the nationals’ culture and the relationship that it brings to their topic of discussion.

Desires three, four and five...to be continued in the next post...

-The Chosen Path, L. Burch

Repost for upcoming topic

The next several posts (in June) will be about women partnering cross-culturally. Beginning with five goals, I will share in these future posts more in depth about each one and about personal experiences of coordinating women's conferences and seminars with American SBC volunteers and Russian women in church leadership. Has your church ever thought about taking a mission trip? Have women in your church ever considered partnering with other ladies in foreign countries to help encourage women's ministry? Below are goals that lead to success. Consider these:

Goal one is that coordinators and speakers are to be dedicated to those attending and their learning.

Goal two is that speakers must understand the topics that they are sharing and sensitively and culturally know how to share those topics.

Goal three is that speakers and coordinators should learn more creatively how to lead and pass knowledge on to those attending so that they will be able to duplicate in their areas what is being taught.

Goal four is that coordinators and speakers will undertake a challenge not only to efficiently teach others but also to learn from their new experiences.

Goal five is that coordinators, speakers, leaders, and missionaries start communicating, regardless of geographical boundaries so that ideas can be united for an effective and culturally sensitive conference.
-The Chosen Path, L. Burch, "goals in ministry"

Showered with love.

Have you ever stepped out into a cool summer’s rain? With outstretched arms, tilted back head and closed eyes, I escape to a world unknown as I twirl in complete freedom. I know that everyone has experienced this before, even in adulthood. How refreshing it is to just forget about the stresses and cares of the world for a few minutes! That is just what happened to me when I went home to the United States to visit with family and friends while awaiting visa documentation.

I had not anticipated this trip to the states, because our company made plans to send us to another Eurpoean country. After some discussion, I decided to pay an extra expense and travel home. Little did I know how blessed I would be! My entire stay consisted of family and friends showering me with kind words and actions. Many people called, visited and took me out to eat. My dad’s home church—Southside Baptist in McRae—on the last few days of my visit even handed me a check that covered the personal cost of my plane fare.

I spent quality time with family. I had special moments with my father and mother as we talked and talked. My dad and I did yard work and afterwards sat in the swing to reminisce. My mom and I thoroughly enjoyed preparing meals in the kitchen, and I often just walked up to her and kissed her cheek for no special reason. Buck’s dad and I took multiple walks down the dirt road. Many times we walked in silence and were just in each other’s presence. But on some of these walks, I learned the secrets of old. Buck’s mother and I had special moments as we sipped tea and worked on the farm. During these times, it was as if I were a sponge soaking in words of wisdom as each shared about life experiences.

While stateside I do my best to see all those I love, but it is impossible to travel to everyone I wish. For this particular trip, many came to me. I was overwhelmed by the conversations we shared. I definitely returned to the mission field encouraged and renewed. I cannot help but wonder if there is a glow on my face right now. Because on Sunday alone, I was given the opportunity to witness twice in Moscow and on my return flight I shared the Gospel with three passengers. Two women were from Puerto Rico and one man working for the American Department of Defense.

In the airport I had the most interesting conversation with the two ladies who spoke Spanish. In broken Spanish and English between the two of us, we soon found out that we were both believers. Her sister, who spoke fluent English, returned from the information booth to find us in deep conversation. We exchanged information and now I am praying for my Puerto Rican sisters in Christ and their lost family members. We swapped Bible verses for the day. It was her birthday and she wrote in her journal about our meeting. She passed me a scripture as a reminder of our visit: “Engañoso es el encanto y pasajera la belleza; la mujer que teme al SEÑOR es digna de alabanza.” (Proverbios 31:30) Before I boarded the plane, one of the sisters ran from the front of the line and gave me the biggest hug and kiss right in the middle of Hartsfield-Jackson International. I guess I better brush up on my Spanish now.

And on Sunday in Moscow while traveling home from church, Amielle and I stopped to get nuts at a candy stand. The lady behind the glass began asking questions about why we were living in Russia. And that led to sharing about Jesus. Next week I promised her a Bible as she does not have one. I told her that she could read it for herself. She asked, “Really?” I explained how Christ is our mediator between God and us, thus allowing personal interaction with Him.

So, if a cool, summer shower gives one’s face a radiance that people notice, I guess it was your showers of love that changed mine. You are a part of what we do in many ways. I have tried to explain it before. Maybe now you will believe me. Thanks I needed a fresh rain.
-The Chosen Path, L.Burch

5 goals for partnering cross-culturally

The next several posts (in June) will be about women partnering cross-culturally. Beginning with five goals, I will share in these future posts more in depth about each one and about personal experiences of coordinating women's conferences and seminars with American SBC volunteers and Russian women in church leadership. Has your church ever thought about taking a mission trip? Have women in your church ever considered partnering with other ladies in foreign countries to help encourage women's ministry? Below are goals that lead to success. Consider these:

Goal one is that coordinators and speakers are to be dedicated to those attending and their learning.

Goal two is that speakers must understand the topics that they are sharing and sensitively and culturally know how to share those topics.

Goal three is that speakers and coordinators should learn more creatively how to lead and pass knowledge on to those attending so that they will be able to duplicate in their areas what is being taught.

Goal four is that coordinators and speakers will undertake a challenge not only to efficiently teach others but also to learn from their new experiences.

Goal five is that coordinators, speakers, leaders, and missionaries start communicating, regardless of geographical boundaries so that ideas can be united for an effective and culturally sensitive conference.
-The Chosen Path, L. Burch, "goals in ministry"

Urban missions

A glimpse of scenery for urban missions. You gotta love it!
-The Burch kids

My Beautiful Mother!

My beautiful mother!

Day at Sweet Home

I had a wonderful day at Sweet Home Baptist Church with Buck's parents today. Here are some memories:

Why doubt?

Path Light: Read Matthew 14:22-32

Key Passage: And when Peter got out of the boat, he walked on water to get to Jesus. But when he felt the wild winds, he was scared… Matthew 14:29b-30a

When first preparing to come to the field, volunteers and new missionary personnel seem to excessively worry. Missionaries in Russia have learned over the years to come expecting nothing, anticipating nothing, and just enjoying life with what God provides. God will amply provide all your needs. In our family’s case, God has truly provided above what we need. Life in Russia can be difficult if we look at it through our own eyes, but through God’s eyes it is very simple.

Sometimes the language barrier worries us. No matter what country we live in, including the various regions of the United States, we can learn the language of the people's heart as well as their words. Most people in Russia will respect you and gain from your experiences, because they can really tell when a person has come to serve. Especially while a missionary or volunteer is in the beginning stages of his missionary service, he needs to build on this foundation. When a missionary is in the middle of transition and times are tough, she seems to notice the storms around her. The waves and wind seem so huge, strong, and impassable. At this point we think that we cannot make it through the storm alone, and we almost seem to drown. The uncertainties overwhelm us; however, when our eyes are focused on Jesus and remember that He is always with us, we walk through the storm in peace.

Peter was walking toward Jesus with no problems until he became afraid. He began to sink. Then he cried, “Lord, save me!” Immediately Jesus reached out his hand and held him. “O thou of little faith,” He responded. Then Jesus asked, “Wherefore didst thou doubt? (Matthew 14:30-31 KJV) Notice the word the Lord uses. Not only did Jesus want Peter to know why he doubted, but also He wanted Peter to recognize at what point he doubted. At the moment we doubt we begin to fall or lose balance. Think back to the times when you have doubted. Did you notice a change in your life for the worse? Did you notice that you did not care to accomplish much or thought that you could not make it anymore? How was your relationship with the Lord? Are you doubting today or are your eyes on the Lord as you go? Do you daily desire to read His Word or just read the Word at your convenience?

Path Application:
As you pick up the Bible, do so with desiring anticipation to discover the Lord. Desire to know Him. Keep Jesus in close sight. Do not allow the circumstances around you to depict your state of being or cause your faith to diminish. Situations or events are not the rulers of your life. Jesus is. He is your Savior.

Walk Father:

1. When have you found yourself facing the most doubt?

2. Think of a time when God’s Word has helped you through a time of doubt. How did it come about?

3. Who has been the person who has encouraged you the most when you face periods of doubt?
-A Winter's Path, path 43, L.Burch

When it all began...

I have to travel home (USA) this week for visa renewal. I will be spending the month with my parents and Buck's. Please pray for our family as we will be separated for this time period and that all my documents get in order. Thankfully we are almost finished with the home school year. So, Buck will not have too many papers to grade while I am away in addition to his other mission responsibilities.

Also, this month is a special one as it is our anniversary of 19 years together--April 21, 1991. I thank the Lord for my wonderful husband. Here is a pic when it all began.

In His Love,
Les
P.S. Women partnering cross culturally topics will have to be posted when I return. I had hoped to start this discussion this month; however, due to travels, I will postpone. Thanks for your continued interest.

Christ is Risen! Христос Воскрес!

Here are a few photos from Easter Sunday in Moscow at Golgotha:


One of my favorite ladies at church! She brought us a baked Easter treat and Easter eggs yesterday. She is actually a family member to our closet friends from Bryansk, Russia.


Kcenya and Luke
Luke presented her with a handmade art project--carnation flower--for Easter.


Luke's Sunday School group


Sunday School choir


Golgotha children's S.S. choir
Christ is Risen! Христос Воскрес!

Daily pray for others

God answers our prayers, sometimes even doubling our request. Sunday was a day of encouragement. A young guy repented after the morning worship time. He is very dear to me; I have been praying for him daily. The most wonderful thing happened though. After he prayed, his best friend did, too. You know, sometimes all people need is a little affirmation. Today is the day to start telling others how much you care and think of them. A few words of encouragement may be just what is needed for someone to take that next step. God bless you!
In His Love,
Les

Somebody’s watching you.

As we walk the streets and ride the metro in urban Moscow, we move along at a normal pace and sometimes do not focus on what is happening around us. Let me tell a story about what took place as we ventured to church one day. For this kind of event, I should have been paying more attention. As our family traveled the subway with millions of other passengers and blended in with our dark colored coats, we stepped into the wagon and settled into our seats as usual. Or, so I thought.

That morning I had a heavy heart. I was worrying about some things and feeling rather guilty about some mistakes that I had made. The family was spread out. I was sitting by myself. One child was across from me, another to the right and Buck and the other child were across from the door. Since we had about a 45 minute ride, I began contemplating. Eventually I lowered my head, prayed and asked the Lord’s forgiveness for where I had failed Him. I started to repeat my prayer over and over again. “Lord, please forgive me. I love you.” But then a still, small, not audible voice, said, “Move on and just feed My sheep.”

Wow! With tears forming in my eyes and a light heart now, I was not expecting the mission that was about to be handed to me. I was not paying attention to the somebody that was watching us. Buck was aware of what was taking place this time, but I was not. A lady was sitting near our family and crying. We arrived at our stop, the last on the north train line, and exited onto the platform. I generally make sure the kids make it off first for fear of separation, so I was behind the family. A lady with a large, weaved bag of goods stopped me. I just knew that she was ready to sell me something. She forced a pair of tights in front me and said take these. I shook my head and firmly said, “No.” She insisted that I take them for my older daughter. She replied that they were a gift. I was caught off guard. I took the hose and said, “Thank you.”

As she was walking away with the flow, I remembered what the Lord told me: “Feed My sheep.” My thoughts were: How am I going to catch up with her? Yet, I knew that I had to. I turned to Buck and asked if he had a tract. He did. He was prepared. I looked at Buck and without saying a word he knew that I was going to chase after her. As he watched the kids and waited on me, I ran and stopped the lady. I said to her, “You do not know how much you have blessed me today. I just wanted to let you know how much this gift has meant, especially right now.”

She began to cry and share with me about personal matters. Coming from a recently broken home, she listened as I tried to consult her and share about God’s love. She told me that she was watching our family and noticed the love between father and children—between us. She wanted to reward us with a gift, because we appeared to be a family that stays together. After sharing the Gospel with her, I handed her a tract. We parted and went our separate ways. I will never see her again or know of her true relationship with the Lord. But I learned a lesson: Somebody is always watching you, so be ready at all times to bring the lost to Him and feed His sheep. Even when I least expect an opportunity, I must be watching.
-The Chosen Path, L.Burch

Last great snow

I think that we have had our last great snow of the year. Here is a pic of Amielle and me right outside our apartment door in the courtyard.



And soon our snow will be melting away. It has actually been above freezing this week. And this morning we heard the men knocking the snow and ice off the tops of the buildings. We live in a building with only seven floors now. We have lived on the 20th floor before. However, this job has to be done regularly on these not so tall and older complexes. Here are a few pics taken from our apartment window. How would you like this job? Unfortunately they do not use ropes for protection. They are not aware, but I pray for their safety.

Lizzie Viola Arnette, age 93, died Feb. 20, 2010

Grandmama definitely was a person of stamina. Her age was even proof of that. She always followed through with her responsibilities and commitments. She was a quiet person yet strong and vocal where her beliefs were concerned. She was a great listener, for I know that she would sit for hours and hear my thoughts. She was a great encourager and constant companion. She daily stayed by Granddaddy’s side over the years no matter what. She was a determined person. For this reason alone, she desired to be in the presence of her children for so long. She was not a quitter; she endured to the end.

I heard that Grandmama opened her eyes on Friday for three minutes one last time. And what did she see? She saw her three daughters standing by her who loved her very much. She saw the three sisters who were always faithful. It is special that she gave each a minute a piece. That is all she needed. I think that may have been her way of saying, “Thank you for all you did, my Darlings.”

I talked with Grandmama that same morning. I remember hearing her rhythmic breathing over the cell phone as I said my last words to her. She did not respond; it was not necessary. She heard me though. I also prayed with her and asked the Lord to just let her rest and sleep and awake to see Him. I did not tell her goodbye. I could not bring myself to do it. So, in my heart I said, “Grandmama, I will see you soon.”

God does all things in His timing. It was Grandmama’s moment to see her Master face to face. I trust that she stood before the Lord that Saturday morning and heard His sweet voice say similar words like these: Welcome Home. Share in this joy—this wonderful place that I have prepared for you.

I thank the Lord for Grandmama’s testimony. We can say that Lizzie Arnette served the Lord well and was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother and friend to many. May we all trust in the Lord as she did!

In closing I found a poem that I want to share. The author is unknown.
Life is but a stopping place,
A pause in what's to be,
A resting place along the road,
to sweet eternity.
We all have different journeys,
Different paths along the way,
We all were meant to learn some things,
but never meant to stay...
Our destination is a place,
Far greater than we know.
For some the journey's quicker,
For some the journey's slow.
And when the journey finally ends,
We'll claim a great reward,
And find an everlasting peace,
Together with the Lord

-Les, 2010

My Grandma!

This is a picture that was taken several years ago of my beautiful grandmother. One of the hardest things to handle while living on the mission field is not being able to drive around the block or across town to see your loved ones. I would right now if I could.

When I was a little girl, I would actually ride my bike down an old dirt road and across a wooden bridge to get to grandma's house. You could actually see the water flowing beneath you as you steered carefully. Spending the night with my grandparents was just the thing to do. She always fixed me just what I wanted and that was usually fried chicken, peas, rice and cornbread. Well, granddaddy and I would sometimes crumble the cornbread up in a glass of milk at the end of the meal. Have you ever had a better dessert than that? Memories. I love my grandma!

Coming soon...

I often mention the importance of your e-mails, Skype talks/chats, comments, etc. I cannot say it enough though. I enjoy hearing from you and sharing in your lives as well. I know how much you pray for us. For that we are appreciative, but today I want to say thanks for your friendship!

Coming soon...It seems like each month a theme develops for these posts. Apparently for the month of February it has mostly been about family and homeschooling. It looks like as we head into March that we will be discussing partnerships. I am presently gathering my journals about "Women Partnering Cross-culturally". Today I posted a link to the most recent video with Dr. Robert White, executive director of the GA Baptist Convention, about the GBC partnership with Moscow and Saint Petersburg, Russia. Watch it here.

Please at any point share ideas with me about your interest for future post. God bless!
In His Love,
Les

A homemaker.

For many years now, homeschooling has become the most pleasurable part of my day. I remember even when I had elementary-aged children and Buck often traveled that I still found ways, though, to be involved in other ministries. I have been talking with a couple of my closest friends lately about these very things and setting priorities. Having spoken on this topic years ago at a seminar, I want to list four facets of ministry: 1) Ministry to husband; 2) Ministry to children; 3) Ministry to the lost; and 4) Ministry to national believers.


The order of importance is imperative but not restricted to isolation. In other words, I found myself learning to be multi-tasked more and more as a homemaker. Naturally I prefer to stay focused on one project until I complete it, but I learned how to devote my attention on more than one thing at a time, especially since I homeschooled while living on the mission field. I began making more use of my time, energy, gifts and devotion in a variety of ways.

Let me explain. My responsibilities to my husband are to help him and to be his best friend and devoted lover. I also need to support him in all that he does by building up his male ego and encouraging him constantly. I found myself making sure that I supplied all his needs. If I did not know what those needs were, I asked. And when I questioned him, I made sure I did what he wanted. That is the key factor and hard part. If I asked, I had to be willing and committed to follow through. I am to be his helpmate.


My ministry to the children is to love and care for them, supply their needs and disciple them. Supplying their needs meant nursing them at a young age, homeschooling them, making sure that they were involved in extra-curricular activities and that their social needs were met. I often found friends for the kids. I would purposefully meet parents and neighbors, so the kids could make new friends.


I would label the third facet a ministry to the lost. Revisiting the reason that I came to the field as a missionary, I concluded that we are to tell people about Jesus. I looked at it this way: No matter what position we are in, what we do on a team, what role we hold in the family, we must evangelize. Many times I found myself even searching for opportunities to witness. In actuality most of the opportunities presented themselves right before me (i.e., landlords’ visits, repair men, neighbors, teachers of my children [language or music], people in the markets and stores). These are all ministry opportunities from the home.


The last one is ministry to national believers. My desire for ministry in this area is to encourage and disciple women. Whether coordinating a women’s conference with Russian sisters and American volunteer speakers via internet, facilitating small groups in the home, encouraging young girls who stop by or using the gift of hospitality, ministry can happen right from the home. I actually found that ministry automatically happened. After the children got a little older, I started other ministries outside of the home once a week.


I have more written about these matters that we may discuss another time. However, I have begun to approach the topic of priorities and ministries quite differently in the last few years. Ministry is family and all that blossoms out of this beautiful setting. In earlier years as I led women’s groups in the states, I used to teach that you must put your priorities in order: 1) God, 2) husband, 3) children and then 4) church. This idea is a good one but a little shallow in thought. We must think on a deeper level. Our ministry involves all these things; they are all an outpouring of one another. Of course, God is always at the top of our “list”. But, think about it, we—our husband and children, eventually church family and colleagues—work together for a great cause; everything we do is ministry. It is all done together. It is like a package deal. This is why I have labeled the various areas facets. What a deep discussion to explain in a few paragraphs but one warranting dialogue!
-The Chosen Path, L. Burch

Thank you, prayer warriors and supporters! We have had the funds to homeschool our kids while being IMB missionaries. Your gifts to Lottie Moon Offerings have been put to use. God bless.