Send Me PRESIDENT 'S PERSPECTIVE
by KEVIN STONE, PRESIDENT
We have completed the 127th Annual General Meetings of the FEBC. The meetings were a suc- cess, though perhaps not so successful in terms of
typical connection. We were unable to be together — there was not much in the way of fellowship, encour- agement, building one another up, shaking hands, hugging, or catching up with old friends. We were unable to offer all the events, training, and connect- ing opportunities that we normally offer at Connect.
Still, there truly was a sense of optimism, ex-
pectation, and energy. Collectively, we know that life is returning to a sense of normalcy. We know that travel, gathering and connection is becoming a feasible option again. We realize that meeting live next summer is a very reasonable expectation. We see the day coming very soon when we will be do- ing all the things we were doing before COVID-19.
And so, I am enthused and energized. Many of
our churches sent delegates to do the important and necessary work that is our business meeting. But there was more to it than that. As we joined in prayer over our local ministries, our nations, and our global partners there was a sense of unity, purpose, and dependence on God. As we reviewed reports and heard updates we were reminded of our shared goals and experiences. We mourned together over some of our losses, and we rejoiced together over some of our triumphs. As we approved a new posi- tion paper, we were reminded of our calling to be salt and light amid utter darkness. As we approved a new budget, we were mindful of the blessings God has given us and of our need to use them wisely for his
SAVE THE DATE: 07/8-10/2022
Connect22 is scheduled to be held in Grunthal, MB
glory. We were reminded that we are truly dependent on him, and that he provides so that we can share.
As I reflect on all of that, I am moved at how
much worship can happen at a business meeting! Reviewing the past year and planning for the next is truly a time of reflecting on the glory of God. It is a reminder of how he has blessed us in the past, and how we long to glorify him in the future.
I have long felt that seeing the glory of God, his
holiness, and his mercy has one natural response — found in Isaiah chapter 6. When Isaiah was confront- ed with the glory and holiness of God, his response was humility. He realized how unworthy he was. But then God sent a representative to cleanse Isaiah from unrighteousness. This revelation of God’s glo- ry, holiness, and mercy changed Isaiah’s heart for- ever. May we say with him: “Here I am! Send me!”
Please pray with us that God would pro-
vide opportunities to impact the world, that he would open our eyes to recognize those oppor- tunities as they arise, and that we would ever be ready to go and do the hard work that is required.
Along with prayer, please consider being in-
volved in our Fellowship. We are working hard to strengthen and support local churches. These lo- cal churches have the potential to make a huge im- pact on their communities — North America is a ripe mission field! To give of your time and your resources — to support this ministry is a wise in- vestment. Whether you can offer prayer, funds, or your talents as a volunteer, we welcome your help.
I have been contacted by several delegates and
pastors since the meetings, affirming their excite- ment at the direction our Fellowship is headed. I am excited too. I believe God has spent the past year preparing us and positioning us to launch into whatever he has in store. I believe he wants to use our Fellowship. I pray that we are ready to be used.
Here I am, Lord. Send me.
FELLOWSHIP FOCUS, AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2021 2
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