Malawi Church Trip —

Dr. Tom and Ruth Nighswander just returned from Malawi and reported that the Presbyterian Church we built there with the congregation’s generous contributions is thriving. There is however, still some work to be   completed. More concrete is needed for the floors, whitewashing for the walls, landscaping, pews, and a  baptismal font. In addition to the work on the church, the group would also tour the Malawi Children’s Village, teach some classes at the local school, rock the AIDS babies at the orphanage, and a safari could be arranged.

Malawi is a safe and beautiful country with friendly poor citizens. The accommodations are comfortable and are centrally located on Lake Malawi.

When Rick and I first went to Malawi it was a life-changing trip for us. The children would follow us for miles to hope to get our empty water bottles. The   students were delighted to get a gift of a pencil and a Polaroid photo of themselves. If you can make this trip Christ will change your life too. Please remember the Great Commission of Christ from Matthew 28:19, “Go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Ghost, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you  always, to the very end of the age.”

If there is enough interest we would like to begin meeting to plan a trip for next February or March. The ideal number of participants would be 10–12. If you are interested, please call Liz Hickerson at 272-7170 or email her at ehickerson@gci.net.

Blessings to you all,

Mary Mystrom

Question:

The Bible frequently speaks about “Saints”. Who are they?

Answer:

The answer may surprise you! Old Testament scripture verses define “saints” (Holy Ones) as those who trusted and served God. Daniel 7:18, 22, 25, 27.

In the New Testament, the word “saint” always refers to a sanctified person, one “set apart” to God for His possession and service. This aspect is POSITIONAL based on the atoning blood of Jesus Christ. (Hebrews 13:12; 10:10-14). In this case, believers are saints regardless of their progress in experience and spiritual growth. According to Romans 1:7, believers are not called to become saints, they are saints, and that by Divine call, just as Paul was an Apostle by Divine call. Romans 1:1.

The term “Saints” (Holy Ones) does not designate some rank of Christian superior to others, but describes all those God has set apart for Himself. In the New Testament the term “saints” refers to believers in Christ. Christians are “Saints”, those who belong to God. (Acts 9:13, Romans 8:27; 15:25-26; 16:2 and I Corinthians 14:33.)

A “title” is an honor to be cherished and lived up to, especially a title given to the believer by God! The Christian believer is set apart to reflect a Holy God, His incarnate Son, Jesus Christ, and the presence of the Holy Spirit. Even more importantly, the Christian is set apart to be a witness to those who do not know God’s plan of redemption.