Years ago at the outset of Empowering Action I read the following quote by the late theologian Warren Wiersbe that I have returned to again and again throughout the subsequent 11 years of EA’s ministry:

“The Lord is planning to work through us in the lives of people and places we know nothing about today; but if we walk in His will, we shall share in the blessing.”

December has been filled with blessings for Carey and I:

• A wonderful reunion-like atmosphere at the EA Christmas Party;
• An historic and emotional retreat in the Dominican Republic with the Cuban pastors and their wives who serve as regional connectors and minister sacrificially amid the most difficult of circumstances;
• Our staff Christmas party in Santo Domingo which included our traditional time of prayer and thanksgiving for the Lord’s grace in allowing us to serve His Church for another year;
• Returning to learn how many of you had already partnered with us financially in our year-end campaign;
• Finally, being contacted last night by a generous EA supporter offering to match all donations up to our $100,000 goal.

Reflecting on the above blessings, I was drawn to the Psalmist’s exhortation to trust God exclusively, worship him explicitly, and thank Him abundantly.

“I love the Lord, because He hears my voice and my supplications. Because He has inclined His ear to me, therefore I shall call upon Him as long as I live…Return to your rest, O my soul, for the Lord has dealt bountifully with you.” (Psalm 116:1-2, 7)