A WORD FROM THE CEO

In Luke 12:35–48, Jesus tells His disciples plainly that He is coming again, and He makes clear what He expects of us: to be ready. Those words can be uncomfortable, unless our hearts are open to His instructions and we are living in obedience. Then they become both exciting and challenging. As his sons and daughters, we needn’t worry about judgement, only to engage with the Holy Spirit and keep in step with him.

There are many ways to stay “dressed ready for service” with our “lamps burning” (v. 35), prayer is an effective way. Whether you are a seasoned prayer warrior or still learning to pray, we need you – please practice on us! Your prayers truly matter. Going is another way – we have opportunities to serve listed on page three. Giving is another.

If you work with a business that serves nonprofits, would you share our name? We depend on individual donations, child sponsorships, church support, and grants from foundations and businesses to move this ministry forward.

Do you have a donor-advised fund (DAF)? Many of our donors recommend grants from their DAF directly to Indigenous Ministries. It is simple and free; your advisor or brokerage firm (such as Charles Schwab) can help. If you are 70½ or older, you can also give from your IRA through a qualified charitable distribution, which can count toward your required minimum distribution (RMD). If you’re interested in leaving a legacy gift, I would be glad to talk with you.

Giving is only one way to serve the Lord, but it makes possible the strategic training of young men and women for ministry. One example is our new Heart for India initiative, which will complete the campus of Grace Bible College.

You may wonder why the campaign includes four businesses. India’s government requires scholarships of 50 to 100 percent given to minority students (Christians are a minority, as are most tribal groups), so GBC cannot charge enough tuition and fees to cover its costs. At the same time, further restrictions on international Christian funding are on the horizon. The businesses will help GBC continue training men and women for ministry for years to come. I ask that any gift to this campaign be above your regular giving to your church and to Indigenous Ministries.

Please join us in prayer this month. Thank you for your faithful gifts and support. May the Lord bless you. Let’s be ready!

Love and blessings,

Dee A. Cook, CEO