Hello and God’s Richest Blessings to all!
Well, we have gone through another year. What a year it has been. There have been many changes and many interesting things that have happened, not all of them good. However, our Lord has kept us! Whatever came, he did not leave us. His word promises, Hebrews 13:5 … for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee. We know from this promise, that he is going to be with us throughout the coming New Year! My prayer is that each one reading this would continue to believe by faith in Our Lord Jesus Christ. He word says in 1 Peter 1:5 Who are kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation ready to be revealed in the last time. Such amazing words! Who would you rather be kept by? There is no other power on heaven and earth that can even come close to His power. We have His Word saying that He will keep us! Through faith unto salvation! And this faith is given by God. Ephes. 2:8 says
For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: No beloved, there is nothing we can bring of our own that will merit us anything. Everything has been done, the victory is won. Let us go into this New Year knowing and understanding that ... in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us. Romans 8:37 We must give all honor and glory to our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ! Thank You Lord for watching over us again!
I pray that each of you will stay in His Word during the upcoming year, and lean entirely upon Him by Faith! I pray for your families, churches, congregations, loved ones, and especially for the masses that do not yet know Jesus. I pray that you would be able to minister in a way that they would be able to come to know and understand that If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. 1 John 1:9 (KJV)
Oh that many new souls could believe the saving Gospel of our Lord Jesus in this coming year. Oh that they could believe with all believers that as in Philip. 4:7 the promise is..
And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.
May this Peace be yours this New Year!
In His Service
John Ruotsala
Your Foreign Mission Administrator
"Ho, every one that thirsteth, come ye to the waters, and he that hath no money; come ye, buy, and eat; yea, come, buy wine and milk without money and without price." Isaiah 55:1
Tuesday, December 30, 2008
Tuesday, December 23, 2008
Blessed Christmas!
Dear Readers! Merry Christmas and God’s Richest Blessings to each of you! I am praying that God gives each of you a very joyous Christmas season, one in which you can focus on the awesome gift of Life that God has given us through the gift of His Son. Our message today will be by Pastor Orval Wirkkala. Please enjoy! In Christ! John Ruotsala
Shall we open the Gift? 12/23/08
Good Morning, dear family.KJV 1 John 4:18 There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear: because fear hath torment. He that feareth is not made perfect in love.KJV 2 Timothy 1:7 For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.In the the Christmas narrative accounts found in the Gospels of Matthew and Luke there are four “fear nots!’
To Zacharias KJV Luke 1:13 But the angel said unto him, Fear not, Zacharias: for thy prayer is heard; and thy wife Elisabeth shall bear thee a son, and thou shalt call his name John.
To Joseph KJV Matthew 1:20 But while he thought on these things, behold, the angel of the Lord appeared unto him in a dream, saying, Joseph, thou son of David, fear not to take unto thee Mary thy wife: for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Ghost.
To Mary KJV Luke 1:30 And the angel said unto her, Fear not, Mary: for thou hast found favour with God.
To the shepherds on Christmas eve. KJV Luke 2:10 And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. Let us look at one of these people to whom the messenger spoke the comforting words, “Fear not.” According to most theologians, Mary was around 13-16 years old when the message of the Lord came to her through the voice of the angel, Gabriel. In Luke’s gospel, chapter 1, verse 27 we meet Mary for the first time in the scriptures and in the book of Acts, chapter 1, verse 14 we read the last mention of her. Here are the two scripture verses:KJV Luke 1:27 To a virgin espoused to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David; and the virgin’s name was Mary.KJV Acts 1:14 These all continued with one accord in prayer and supplication, with the women, and Mary the mother of Jesus, and with his brethren. A brief study of her life reveals to us that she was a girl of faith, in that she believed that which God had said. In her song of praise which begins in Luke 1:46, it is evident that she knew the scriptures and had memorized them. How do we know this? We may conclude this by careful examination of the words that she was given to speak by the revelation of the Holy Spirit, for the bulk of her song of praise of the Lord is taken from the Old Testament scriptures. Therefore, because she believed she spoke, speaking from the abundance of her heart, speaking that which was grounded upon the truths of the Holy Bible. As I prayerfully spent some time in the Word with the prayer in my heart to get to know Mary better than I had known her before, the Lord was gracious to me and through the scriptures enabled me to do so. And consequently, through her life and testimony, I was able to see that she knew and loved Him, Whom she was to bear into this world. She was a prepared vessel of the Lord through whom many would come to be blessed and that “ he hath regarded the low estate of his handmaiden: for, behold, from henceforth all generations shall call me blessed.” (Luke 1:48)Through all this, she remained a humble child of God, recognizing that the Lord, who is mighty, had done to her great things, and holy is his name. (Luke 1:49)Have we not been able to call her blessed ourselves, because of the example of faith and trust that she modeled, in that she believed the message from the messenger, which was sent from the portals of Glory? Yes, we have come to understand the blessing of having been granted the favor of grace that was bestowed upon her. It is the same favor that was poured out into the life of Joni Erickson Tada, which she herself spoke of in a couple of seasons of her life. After her diving accident which paralyzed her from the neck down, leaving her with only the use of her arms and not her hands, she wished that she could die. When she realized that this was not a possibility, she spoke to the Lord: “Lord, if I cannot die, you are going to have to show me how to live!” At this point she begin to work toward living and a number of years later as she was speaking to a large crowd, these words were spoken by her: “I would rather be in the wheel chair, and to know Jesus Christ, than to be a normal healthy woman and not know Jesus Christ!” In between these two times of her life, she had become acqainted with a young man, through whom Christ and his saving grace was revealed to and experienced by her. Mary trusted God to fulfill in her life that which was humanly impossible and that which would require divine intervention in order to come to pass. Joni trusted God to fulfill in her life that which was humanly impossible, which required the divine intervention of the Holy Spirit to enable her to live a life that was a blessed life of peace and joy in the Holy Spirit. Can we not say, that Christ was born into her heart and that she is called blessed by all those who have come to understand what the real blessings of Christmas are. For it is in the receiving and the opening of the gift that God has provided that the blessing is experienced. It is not experienced without the opening of it. A gift is not a gift until it is opened. Just this morning I spoke with my daughter who is in Morales, Guatemala, where she will be spending Christmas with a family that invited her to be with them for Christmas. She told me: “When they receive a gift from the States, they do not wait until Christmas to open it, but they tear into it right away.” May we do the same with the gift that the Lord has provided, tearing away the outward wrappings so that we may be able to see Him!!!Merry Christmas!
Pastor Orval Wirkkala
Shall we open the Gift? 12/23/08
Good Morning, dear family.KJV 1 John 4:18 There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear: because fear hath torment. He that feareth is not made perfect in love.KJV 2 Timothy 1:7 For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.In the the Christmas narrative accounts found in the Gospels of Matthew and Luke there are four “fear nots!’
To Zacharias KJV Luke 1:13 But the angel said unto him, Fear not, Zacharias: for thy prayer is heard; and thy wife Elisabeth shall bear thee a son, and thou shalt call his name John.
To Joseph KJV Matthew 1:20 But while he thought on these things, behold, the angel of the Lord appeared unto him in a dream, saying, Joseph, thou son of David, fear not to take unto thee Mary thy wife: for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Ghost.
To Mary KJV Luke 1:30 And the angel said unto her, Fear not, Mary: for thou hast found favour with God.
To the shepherds on Christmas eve. KJV Luke 2:10 And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. Let us look at one of these people to whom the messenger spoke the comforting words, “Fear not.” According to most theologians, Mary was around 13-16 years old when the message of the Lord came to her through the voice of the angel, Gabriel. In Luke’s gospel, chapter 1, verse 27 we meet Mary for the first time in the scriptures and in the book of Acts, chapter 1, verse 14 we read the last mention of her. Here are the two scripture verses:KJV Luke 1:27 To a virgin espoused to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David; and the virgin’s name was Mary.KJV Acts 1:14 These all continued with one accord in prayer and supplication, with the women, and Mary the mother of Jesus, and with his brethren. A brief study of her life reveals to us that she was a girl of faith, in that she believed that which God had said. In her song of praise which begins in Luke 1:46, it is evident that she knew the scriptures and had memorized them. How do we know this? We may conclude this by careful examination of the words that she was given to speak by the revelation of the Holy Spirit, for the bulk of her song of praise of the Lord is taken from the Old Testament scriptures. Therefore, because she believed she spoke, speaking from the abundance of her heart, speaking that which was grounded upon the truths of the Holy Bible. As I prayerfully spent some time in the Word with the prayer in my heart to get to know Mary better than I had known her before, the Lord was gracious to me and through the scriptures enabled me to do so. And consequently, through her life and testimony, I was able to see that she knew and loved Him, Whom she was to bear into this world. She was a prepared vessel of the Lord through whom many would come to be blessed and that “ he hath regarded the low estate of his handmaiden: for, behold, from henceforth all generations shall call me blessed.” (Luke 1:48)Through all this, she remained a humble child of God, recognizing that the Lord, who is mighty, had done to her great things, and holy is his name. (Luke 1:49)Have we not been able to call her blessed ourselves, because of the example of faith and trust that she modeled, in that she believed the message from the messenger, which was sent from the portals of Glory? Yes, we have come to understand the blessing of having been granted the favor of grace that was bestowed upon her. It is the same favor that was poured out into the life of Joni Erickson Tada, which she herself spoke of in a couple of seasons of her life. After her diving accident which paralyzed her from the neck down, leaving her with only the use of her arms and not her hands, she wished that she could die. When she realized that this was not a possibility, she spoke to the Lord: “Lord, if I cannot die, you are going to have to show me how to live!” At this point she begin to work toward living and a number of years later as she was speaking to a large crowd, these words were spoken by her: “I would rather be in the wheel chair, and to know Jesus Christ, than to be a normal healthy woman and not know Jesus Christ!” In between these two times of her life, she had become acqainted with a young man, through whom Christ and his saving grace was revealed to and experienced by her. Mary trusted God to fulfill in her life that which was humanly impossible and that which would require divine intervention in order to come to pass. Joni trusted God to fulfill in her life that which was humanly impossible, which required the divine intervention of the Holy Spirit to enable her to live a life that was a blessed life of peace and joy in the Holy Spirit. Can we not say, that Christ was born into her heart and that she is called blessed by all those who have come to understand what the real blessings of Christmas are. For it is in the receiving and the opening of the gift that God has provided that the blessing is experienced. It is not experienced without the opening of it. A gift is not a gift until it is opened. Just this morning I spoke with my daughter who is in Morales, Guatemala, where she will be spending Christmas with a family that invited her to be with them for Christmas. She told me: “When they receive a gift from the States, they do not wait until Christmas to open it, but they tear into it right away.” May we do the same with the gift that the Lord has provided, tearing away the outward wrappings so that we may be able to see Him!!!Merry Christmas!
Pastor Orval Wirkkala
Tuesday, December 16, 2008
Greetings of God’s Blessed Peace!
Well, this week has been very interesting. Where I live in New Hampshire, USA, we got hit by a severe ice storm last Thursday night. This ice on the trees became so heavy that very many of them broke and fell on the power lines, causing very much damage. We have been in the dark every since this has happened. We are not used to living without electricity in the USA. However, it has been a blessed time as well. In a disaster such as this, people have helped one another with whatever need they have had. The communities have come together and the huge job that was placed before us by the storm is being completed quite quickly because so many are willing to help. It may still be possibly a week or so more before we get electricity back, but Lord willing all will be well!
This experience has shown us so many spiritual pictures. First of all, at this time of year, our trees are all without leaves. They are bare and quite unattractive. However, when covered by ice, they all became beautiful to look at. This to me is a picture of being covered by the Blood of Jesus. He is our total covering, so therefore, all of our unattractiveness due to sin is covered. When we believe by faith all of our sins forgiven in and by the Name and Shed Blood of our Lord Jesus Christ, we are all covered. In Rev. 7:14 His word says,
And I said unto him, Sir, thou knowest. And he said to me, These are they which came out of great tribulation, and have washed their robes, and made them white in the blood of the Lamb.
What a blessed thought that all those who are believers are alike when covered by the Blood of Christ! All of these icy branches looked equally beautiful when the glorious light of the Sun of the day came and shone upon them. They were dazzlingly beautiful. This is how the Redeemed look to God in Heaven! When we are covered by Jesus’s Blood, he sees only that beauty and no longer looks upon our sins.
Also, the working together to get so much work done in our area, reminds me of how as Christians we must work together for the furtherance of HIS Gospel. This is HIS word that we need to spread. These are God’s children that we desire to feed, to help, and to comfort. All of us need each other both spiritually and naturally. Remember, we are all in this battle together. We need each other.
There are many more lessons learned from this big storm, but I will just share on more with you. That is, things can change very fast, and even when we least expect it. Last Thursday night, we had lights, heat, food, and all that we needed. Suddenly it was all taken away by natural event. Things can change very fast. Whatever condition we are in during this life, we can remember according to God’s word that it is temporary and it shall surely pass! But there is one thing that will never pass, God’s word says in
Matthew 24:35 Heaven and earth shall pass away, but my words shall not pass away. God’s word in eternal and we are so secure in this fact. If we stay in His Word and stick to His promises, we will be safe and secure in the storms in this life, and we will be safely on our way to eternal bliss and joy in Heaven above, where we will all be in one community together worshipping our Lord eternally!
In The Precious Name of Jesus
John Ruotsala
Your Foreign Mission Administrator.
Well, this week has been very interesting. Where I live in New Hampshire, USA, we got hit by a severe ice storm last Thursday night. This ice on the trees became so heavy that very many of them broke and fell on the power lines, causing very much damage. We have been in the dark every since this has happened. We are not used to living without electricity in the USA. However, it has been a blessed time as well. In a disaster such as this, people have helped one another with whatever need they have had. The communities have come together and the huge job that was placed before us by the storm is being completed quite quickly because so many are willing to help. It may still be possibly a week or so more before we get electricity back, but Lord willing all will be well!
This experience has shown us so many spiritual pictures. First of all, at this time of year, our trees are all without leaves. They are bare and quite unattractive. However, when covered by ice, they all became beautiful to look at. This to me is a picture of being covered by the Blood of Jesus. He is our total covering, so therefore, all of our unattractiveness due to sin is covered. When we believe by faith all of our sins forgiven in and by the Name and Shed Blood of our Lord Jesus Christ, we are all covered. In Rev. 7:14 His word says,
And I said unto him, Sir, thou knowest. And he said to me, These are they which came out of great tribulation, and have washed their robes, and made them white in the blood of the Lamb.
What a blessed thought that all those who are believers are alike when covered by the Blood of Christ! All of these icy branches looked equally beautiful when the glorious light of the Sun of the day came and shone upon them. They were dazzlingly beautiful. This is how the Redeemed look to God in Heaven! When we are covered by Jesus’s Blood, he sees only that beauty and no longer looks upon our sins.
Also, the working together to get so much work done in our area, reminds me of how as Christians we must work together for the furtherance of HIS Gospel. This is HIS word that we need to spread. These are God’s children that we desire to feed, to help, and to comfort. All of us need each other both spiritually and naturally. Remember, we are all in this battle together. We need each other.
There are many more lessons learned from this big storm, but I will just share on more with you. That is, things can change very fast, and even when we least expect it. Last Thursday night, we had lights, heat, food, and all that we needed. Suddenly it was all taken away by natural event. Things can change very fast. Whatever condition we are in during this life, we can remember according to God’s word that it is temporary and it shall surely pass! But there is one thing that will never pass, God’s word says in
Matthew 24:35 Heaven and earth shall pass away, but my words shall not pass away. God’s word in eternal and we are so secure in this fact. If we stay in His Word and stick to His promises, we will be safe and secure in the storms in this life, and we will be safely on our way to eternal bliss and joy in Heaven above, where we will all be in one community together worshipping our Lord eternally!
In The Precious Name of Jesus
John Ruotsala
Your Foreign Mission Administrator.
Tuesday, December 9, 2008
"Go ye into all the world..."
Hello Readers!
God’s Peace!
This week I have been very busy, since the Foreign Mission had their bi-annual meetings. These are over now, but now there is a lot of work to do to catch up on, as well as to act upon those decisions made at the meeting. There was one common thought that ran throughout the meeting. All of the Foreign Mission Board members have a common goal and desire. That is to be obedient to the words of our Lord when He said in Mark 16:15 - Go ye into all the world, and preach the Gospel to every creature. This is state stated goal, desire and purpose of the Foreign Mission of the Apostolic Lutheran Church of America.
However, since the world is so large, and there is so little time, we realize that a few pastors cannot do all this preaching. In Romans 10:14 it says …… and how shall they hear without a preacher? The Foreign Mission is so grateful to our Lord that He has provided many preachers in their own lands, to share in this work. We desire to continue and expand the process of using qualified preachers with a true understanding of Living Faith in Christ Jesus our Lord, to help us spread this Gospel in the various countries.
The Foreign Mission holds regular pastors and church leader training seminars in many places. For instance, there will be these training sessions coming up within the next few months in India, Guatemala, Togo, and some other West African countries. Also in January 09 we will be having seminars in The Philippines. If you are interested, just ask me for exact dates, and I will provide them as soon as possible. Please dear reader, if you can attend these conferences and seminars, please do so.
I am sure it is your desire, as it is our desire, to spread the Gospel of Jesus Christ in Truth and Purity. Let us not go forth on our own power, but go forth by the power given to us from God in Heaven, through Jesus Christ our Lord.
All of this Foreign Mission work is very expensive. However, this is the Lord’s work, and we are trying to be obedient to His call. Pray earnestly that our donations will increase in this very poor economy that we now have. Unfortunately it takes a lot of money to be able to do all these tasks, and right now we are very short on funds. So please PRAY for us in this regard also.
The battle for Souls rages on in this dark world. The devil wants to win, but we have nothing to fear if we are in Christ, for scripture tells us in Romans 8:39 (KJV)
Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
May you be always found in His Love!
In Christ, John “Your Foreign Mission administrator.” jthree16@comcast.net www.themissionsite.com
God’s Peace!
This week I have been very busy, since the Foreign Mission had their bi-annual meetings. These are over now, but now there is a lot of work to do to catch up on, as well as to act upon those decisions made at the meeting. There was one common thought that ran throughout the meeting. All of the Foreign Mission Board members have a common goal and desire. That is to be obedient to the words of our Lord when He said in Mark 16:15 - Go ye into all the world, and preach the Gospel to every creature. This is state stated goal, desire and purpose of the Foreign Mission of the Apostolic Lutheran Church of America.
However, since the world is so large, and there is so little time, we realize that a few pastors cannot do all this preaching. In Romans 10:14 it says …… and how shall they hear without a preacher? The Foreign Mission is so grateful to our Lord that He has provided many preachers in their own lands, to share in this work. We desire to continue and expand the process of using qualified preachers with a true understanding of Living Faith in Christ Jesus our Lord, to help us spread this Gospel in the various countries.
The Foreign Mission holds regular pastors and church leader training seminars in many places. For instance, there will be these training sessions coming up within the next few months in India, Guatemala, Togo, and some other West African countries. Also in January 09 we will be having seminars in The Philippines. If you are interested, just ask me for exact dates, and I will provide them as soon as possible. Please dear reader, if you can attend these conferences and seminars, please do so.
I am sure it is your desire, as it is our desire, to spread the Gospel of Jesus Christ in Truth and Purity. Let us not go forth on our own power, but go forth by the power given to us from God in Heaven, through Jesus Christ our Lord.
All of this Foreign Mission work is very expensive. However, this is the Lord’s work, and we are trying to be obedient to His call. Pray earnestly that our donations will increase in this very poor economy that we now have. Unfortunately it takes a lot of money to be able to do all these tasks, and right now we are very short on funds. So please PRAY for us in this regard also.
The battle for Souls rages on in this dark world. The devil wants to win, but we have nothing to fear if we are in Christ, for scripture tells us in Romans 8:39 (KJV)
Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
May you be always found in His Love!
In Christ, John “Your Foreign Mission administrator.” jthree16@comcast.net www.themissionsite.com
Tuesday, December 2, 2008
Serving the Lord!
Hello Readers!
God’s Peace! As I sat down to write this article this week, I decided to check over some of the other articles given to me to include in this blog. I came across this one by Pastor Rod Johnson that I thought very fitting, as so many of you are faithfully in the service of the Lord in your own countries. I trust that you will be encouraged by the message and in your service in HIS KINGDOM! In Christ, John “Your Foreign Mission administrator.” Jthree16@comcast.net www.themissionsite.com
Serving the Lord!
“I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.” Romans 12:1-2
Our Christianity is expressed in love toward God as well as in love toward our neighbor. These working together are spiritual acts of worship because through them we are serving God. This should not to be considered as a heavy demand, but rather those done with a willing heart, mind and spirit in love. Christianity requires living it, not only believing and thinking about it, but Faith expressing itself in love and obedience to the Word of God with Jesus Christ being Lord of every area of our life.
The Apostle Paul in this chapter gives guidelines for living as a redeemed people in a fallen world. Therefore: As a result of the work of grace, having received the gift of faith, it is expected that we become living sacrifices because we possess a new life in the Holy Spirit. That we may be able to follow Jesus daily laying aside our own human desires This we endeavor to do out of gratitude that our sins have been forgiven through the Blood of the Cross of Jesus Christ. A living sacrifice of love without hypocrisy!
Our ‘reasonable service’, which is a spiritual act of worship, is not a mere ritual activity, BUT the involvement of heart, mind and will. NOT a pronouncement of a great spiritual dictate or command, BUT rather an encouragement to so live life as Jesus Christ directs us in “Loving our neighbor as we love ourselves”. “We were therefore buried with him through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life.” Romans 6:4
We are led to become a ‘transformed people by the renewing of the mind’, living to honor and obey the Lord Jesus. Being transformed is to exhibit a markedly changed nature; of thought and will relating to morality, God’s Word, our neighbor and our attitudes. Changed from: self-serving, selfish, greedy, lustful, vengeful, angry, sinners -- To: Those who are under the control of the Holy Spirit endeavoring to live by the Spirit in love to God and man. Why? Because He gave His Son to make this new live possible. Therefore, we should with joy give ourselves for His service.
The threefold enemy, the devil, the world and our flesh, constantly project the world’s immorality with its corruptive ways into our lives. Therefore, NOT conforming to this world's values must go deeper than the level of behavior and customs--it must also be firmly planted in our minds--"by the transforming of the mind." We recognize that it is possible to avoid many worldly customs and still be proud, covetous, selfish, stubborn, and arrogant. Only by the Holy Spirit’s renewal, can we be truly transformed. “For those who live according to the flesh set their minds on the things of the flesh, but those who live according to the Spirit, the things of the Spirit.” Romans 8:5
By so living, “…Ye may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.” and that Jesus Christ is Lord because “The world can see we are Christians by our love.”
Serving the Lord together with you,
In Christ Jesus,
God’s Peace!
Pr. Rod
Please let me know how you are doing! I wish to pray for each servant that is the work of the Lord! Thanks, John
God’s Peace! As I sat down to write this article this week, I decided to check over some of the other articles given to me to include in this blog. I came across this one by Pastor Rod Johnson that I thought very fitting, as so many of you are faithfully in the service of the Lord in your own countries. I trust that you will be encouraged by the message and in your service in HIS KINGDOM! In Christ, John “Your Foreign Mission administrator.” Jthree16@comcast.net www.themissionsite.com
Serving the Lord!
“I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.” Romans 12:1-2
Our Christianity is expressed in love toward God as well as in love toward our neighbor. These working together are spiritual acts of worship because through them we are serving God. This should not to be considered as a heavy demand, but rather those done with a willing heart, mind and spirit in love. Christianity requires living it, not only believing and thinking about it, but Faith expressing itself in love and obedience to the Word of God with Jesus Christ being Lord of every area of our life.
The Apostle Paul in this chapter gives guidelines for living as a redeemed people in a fallen world. Therefore: As a result of the work of grace, having received the gift of faith, it is expected that we become living sacrifices because we possess a new life in the Holy Spirit. That we may be able to follow Jesus daily laying aside our own human desires This we endeavor to do out of gratitude that our sins have been forgiven through the Blood of the Cross of Jesus Christ. A living sacrifice of love without hypocrisy!
Our ‘reasonable service’, which is a spiritual act of worship, is not a mere ritual activity, BUT the involvement of heart, mind and will. NOT a pronouncement of a great spiritual dictate or command, BUT rather an encouragement to so live life as Jesus Christ directs us in “Loving our neighbor as we love ourselves”. “We were therefore buried with him through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life.” Romans 6:4
We are led to become a ‘transformed people by the renewing of the mind’, living to honor and obey the Lord Jesus. Being transformed is to exhibit a markedly changed nature; of thought and will relating to morality, God’s Word, our neighbor and our attitudes. Changed from: self-serving, selfish, greedy, lustful, vengeful, angry, sinners -- To: Those who are under the control of the Holy Spirit endeavoring to live by the Spirit in love to God and man. Why? Because He gave His Son to make this new live possible. Therefore, we should with joy give ourselves for His service.
The threefold enemy, the devil, the world and our flesh, constantly project the world’s immorality with its corruptive ways into our lives. Therefore, NOT conforming to this world's values must go deeper than the level of behavior and customs--it must also be firmly planted in our minds--"by the transforming of the mind." We recognize that it is possible to avoid many worldly customs and still be proud, covetous, selfish, stubborn, and arrogant. Only by the Holy Spirit’s renewal, can we be truly transformed. “For those who live according to the flesh set their minds on the things of the flesh, but those who live according to the Spirit, the things of the Spirit.” Romans 8:5
By so living, “…Ye may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.” and that Jesus Christ is Lord because “The world can see we are Christians by our love.”
Serving the Lord together with you,
In Christ Jesus,
God’s Peace!
Pr. Rod
Please let me know how you are doing! I wish to pray for each servant that is the work of the Lord! Thanks, John
Wednesday, November 26, 2008
Thanksgiving!
To: Pastors, Church Leaders, and other readers around the world!
From: John Ruotsala, “Your Foreign Mission Administrator”
Please note: You can find this article at www.themissionsite.com scroll down the home page and notice Administrators Blog on the left side. Click and you have it. Please let me know if it would be helpful to have this in your language, as I am able to translate it into several languages
God’s Peace! Since this article is quite long, I will not make further comments this week. This will help you all get to know us American Christians more. It is about our Thanksgiving beginnings and blessings! This article was republished recently by Pastor Orval Wirkkala.
A TWOFOLD HERITAGE (by ALCA Pastor Alvin Holmgren)
"The ravages of winter took a heavy toll on the newly-formed pilgrim colony in New England. The first winter was severe and they were ill-prepared for it. The long ocean voyage of more than two months had been taxing. Some of their number died enroute, and the lack of proper diet had weakened many others. It had been the middle of November 1620 when land was sighted at the tip of Cape Cod, Massachusetts. After exploring the coast along Massachusetts bay, the Pilgrims chose Plymouth as their site for their colony. By the time the Mayflower dropped anchor in the harbor at Plymouth, it was December. By the end of March their number of 102 had been reduced to only 51, and almost half of them were children. Only 20 men and 8 women had lived through that dreadful winter. In spite of the rigors of this first winter in the new land, not one of the remaining pilgrims chose to return to England when the Mayflower sailed again for England in early April. Before long, their leader Governor John Carver also died. The pilgrims elected William Bradford as governor. Although he was only 31 years old, Governor Bradford proved to be a good leader and was elected governor 30 times.Even though some of the natives were as inhospitable as the first winter, in time the pilgrims developed a friendship with them. When the harvest was over that year, for the first time since they came to America, the pilgrims had all the food they needed. They had ample wood cut for their fires, and their house were readied for winter.Governor Bradford declared it was time for "thanksgiving," A feast was prepared and the Indian friends were invited to join the pilgrims for this festive occasion. God was to be thanked for sparing their lives, for their freedom in this new land, for the abundance of the harvest, and for their Indian friends. As so began our day of national thanksgiving.We, today, can learn anew from the pilgrim forefathers. They knew that their very lives depended upon the blessing of the Almighty God, and they were not forgetful in acknowledging this. Our nation and its people have traveled far from this first "Thanksgiving Day" in 1621.But have we traveled in the right direction? Have we, as a people, been mindful of this early example?It is important that we as Christians walk the pathway of thankfulness. God is good and sends countless blessings upon the earth. Jesus explained the goodness of God by that our Father in heaven makes the sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the just and on the unjust KJV Matthew 5:45 That ye may be the children of your Father which is in heaven: for he maketh his sun to rise on the evil and on the good, and sendeth rain on the just and on the unjust.May we not be forgetful to return thanks to God, who is the source of our many blessings. We need to be grateful for this good land in which we live, and also to share in the responsibility to pray for kings and for all that are in authority. KJV 1 Timothy 2:1 I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men; KJV 1 Timothy 2:2 For kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty. Our national heritage is a great blessing, but it is second in importance in comparison with our Christian heritage. Harvest was the time of the pilgrims' thanksgiving. We join in thanking God for his promise that while the earth remains, seedtime and harvest will not cease. KJV Genesis 8:22 While the earth remaineth, seedtime and harvest, and cold and heat, and summer and winter, and day and night shall not cease. (Genesis 8:22) But we also look to a greater harvest--the harvest of souls. This harvest is the primary purpose for living and should be the goal of our lives.KJV Matthew 9:37 Then saith he unto his disciples, The harvest truly is plenteous, but the labourers are few;KJV Matthew 9:38 Pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that he will send forth labourers into his harvest.Today we are still surrounded by a cloud of witnesses of which we read in the book of Hebrews, chapters 11 and 12: 29 By faith the people crossed the Red Sea as if on dry land, but the Egyptians, when they attempted to do the same, were drowned.30 By faith the walls of Jericho fell down after they had been encircled for seven days.31 By faith Rahab the prostitute did not perish with those who were disobedient, because she had given a friendly welcome to the spies.32 And what more shall I say? For time would fail me to tell of Gideon, Barak, Samson, Jephthah, of David and Samuel and the prophets-33 who through faith conquered kingdoms, enforced justice, obtained promises, stopped the mouths of lions,34 quenched the power of fire, escaped the edge of the sword, were made strong out of weakness, became mighty in war, put foreign armies to flight.35 Women received back their dead by resurrection. Some were tortured, refusing to accept release, so that they might rise again to a better life.36 Others suffered mocking and flogging, and even chains and imprisonment.37 They were stoned, they were sawn in two,1 they were killed with the sword. They went about in skins of sheep and goats, destitute, afflicted, mistreated-38 of whom the world was not worthy- wandering about in deserts and mountains, and in dens and caves of the earth.39 And all these, though commended through their faith, did not receive what was promised,40 since God had provided something better for us, that apart from us they should not be made perfect.ESV Hebrews 12:1 Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us,2 looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God.They have passed this way before us. We are urged to remember them, for they have spoken to us, the Word of God, and we are encouraged to follow their faith, mindful of the end of their lives.KJV Hebrews 13:7 Remember them which have the rule over you, who have spoken unto you the word of God: whose faith follow, considering the end of their conversation. Original: Remember those who have led you, who have taught you the Word of God, observe, reflect upon the results of their lives and imitate their example of faith.""Jesus Christ, the same yesterday, and today and forever. By him therefore let us offer the sacrifice of praise unto God continually, that it, the fruit of our lips, giving thanks to his name. (Hebrews 13:8, 15)Pastor Alvin C. Holmgren Reprinted from 1984
May God Truly Bless Your day and week!
In Christ, John Ruotsala
Your Foreign Mission Administrator (Please see below also)
Business Section: Starting soon! Additional sermons on Skype!
Please provide me with a cell phone number that can be used for these sermons. Also, please let me know the best time of the month to have your special service. We will try our best to have services at least one time per month for all parties interested, as long as the technology works and the funding is sufficient.
Also, if you would like to get on our mailing list for our Christian Monthly, please provide me with your physical address. I could also give you the website where you could read it at. You can get to it also through our website, www.themissionsite.com Feel free to visit here often as well.
From: John Ruotsala, “Your Foreign Mission Administrator”
Please note: You can find this article at www.themissionsite.com scroll down the home page and notice Administrators Blog on the left side. Click and you have it. Please let me know if it would be helpful to have this in your language, as I am able to translate it into several languages
God’s Peace! Since this article is quite long, I will not make further comments this week. This will help you all get to know us American Christians more. It is about our Thanksgiving beginnings and blessings! This article was republished recently by Pastor Orval Wirkkala.
A TWOFOLD HERITAGE (by ALCA Pastor Alvin Holmgren)
"The ravages of winter took a heavy toll on the newly-formed pilgrim colony in New England. The first winter was severe and they were ill-prepared for it. The long ocean voyage of more than two months had been taxing. Some of their number died enroute, and the lack of proper diet had weakened many others. It had been the middle of November 1620 when land was sighted at the tip of Cape Cod, Massachusetts. After exploring the coast along Massachusetts bay, the Pilgrims chose Plymouth as their site for their colony. By the time the Mayflower dropped anchor in the harbor at Plymouth, it was December. By the end of March their number of 102 had been reduced to only 51, and almost half of them were children. Only 20 men and 8 women had lived through that dreadful winter. In spite of the rigors of this first winter in the new land, not one of the remaining pilgrims chose to return to England when the Mayflower sailed again for England in early April. Before long, their leader Governor John Carver also died. The pilgrims elected William Bradford as governor. Although he was only 31 years old, Governor Bradford proved to be a good leader and was elected governor 30 times.Even though some of the natives were as inhospitable as the first winter, in time the pilgrims developed a friendship with them. When the harvest was over that year, for the first time since they came to America, the pilgrims had all the food they needed. They had ample wood cut for their fires, and their house were readied for winter.Governor Bradford declared it was time for "thanksgiving," A feast was prepared and the Indian friends were invited to join the pilgrims for this festive occasion. God was to be thanked for sparing their lives, for their freedom in this new land, for the abundance of the harvest, and for their Indian friends. As so began our day of national thanksgiving.We, today, can learn anew from the pilgrim forefathers. They knew that their very lives depended upon the blessing of the Almighty God, and they were not forgetful in acknowledging this. Our nation and its people have traveled far from this first "Thanksgiving Day" in 1621.But have we traveled in the right direction? Have we, as a people, been mindful of this early example?It is important that we as Christians walk the pathway of thankfulness. God is good and sends countless blessings upon the earth. Jesus explained the goodness of God by that our Father in heaven makes the sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the just and on the unjust KJV Matthew 5:45 That ye may be the children of your Father which is in heaven: for he maketh his sun to rise on the evil and on the good, and sendeth rain on the just and on the unjust.May we not be forgetful to return thanks to God, who is the source of our many blessings. We need to be grateful for this good land in which we live, and also to share in the responsibility to pray for kings and for all that are in authority. KJV 1 Timothy 2:1 I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men; KJV 1 Timothy 2:2 For kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty. Our national heritage is a great blessing, but it is second in importance in comparison with our Christian heritage. Harvest was the time of the pilgrims' thanksgiving. We join in thanking God for his promise that while the earth remains, seedtime and harvest will not cease. KJV Genesis 8:22 While the earth remaineth, seedtime and harvest, and cold and heat, and summer and winter, and day and night shall not cease. (Genesis 8:22) But we also look to a greater harvest--the harvest of souls. This harvest is the primary purpose for living and should be the goal of our lives.KJV Matthew 9:37 Then saith he unto his disciples, The harvest truly is plenteous, but the labourers are few;KJV Matthew 9:38 Pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that he will send forth labourers into his harvest.Today we are still surrounded by a cloud of witnesses of which we read in the book of Hebrews, chapters 11 and 12: 29 By faith the people crossed the Red Sea as if on dry land, but the Egyptians, when they attempted to do the same, were drowned.30 By faith the walls of Jericho fell down after they had been encircled for seven days.31 By faith Rahab the prostitute did not perish with those who were disobedient, because she had given a friendly welcome to the spies.32 And what more shall I say? For time would fail me to tell of Gideon, Barak, Samson, Jephthah, of David and Samuel and the prophets-33 who through faith conquered kingdoms, enforced justice, obtained promises, stopped the mouths of lions,34 quenched the power of fire, escaped the edge of the sword, were made strong out of weakness, became mighty in war, put foreign armies to flight.35 Women received back their dead by resurrection. Some were tortured, refusing to accept release, so that they might rise again to a better life.36 Others suffered mocking and flogging, and even chains and imprisonment.37 They were stoned, they were sawn in two,1 they were killed with the sword. They went about in skins of sheep and goats, destitute, afflicted, mistreated-38 of whom the world was not worthy- wandering about in deserts and mountains, and in dens and caves of the earth.39 And all these, though commended through their faith, did not receive what was promised,40 since God had provided something better for us, that apart from us they should not be made perfect.ESV Hebrews 12:1 Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us,2 looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God.They have passed this way before us. We are urged to remember them, for they have spoken to us, the Word of God, and we are encouraged to follow their faith, mindful of the end of their lives.KJV Hebrews 13:7 Remember them which have the rule over you, who have spoken unto you the word of God: whose faith follow, considering the end of their conversation. Original: Remember those who have led you, who have taught you the Word of God, observe, reflect upon the results of their lives and imitate their example of faith.""Jesus Christ, the same yesterday, and today and forever. By him therefore let us offer the sacrifice of praise unto God continually, that it, the fruit of our lips, giving thanks to his name. (Hebrews 13:8, 15)Pastor Alvin C. Holmgren Reprinted from 1984
May God Truly Bless Your day and week!
In Christ, John Ruotsala
Your Foreign Mission Administrator (Please see below also)
Business Section: Starting soon! Additional sermons on Skype!
Please provide me with a cell phone number that can be used for these sermons. Also, please let me know the best time of the month to have your special service. We will try our best to have services at least one time per month for all parties interested, as long as the technology works and the funding is sufficient.
Also, if you would like to get on our mailing list for our Christian Monthly, please provide me with your physical address. I could also give you the website where you could read it at. You can get to it also through our website, www.themissionsite.com Feel free to visit here often as well.
Wednesday, November 19, 2008
God's Natural Pictures!
To: Pastors, Church Leaders, and other readers around the world!
From: John Ruotsala, “Your Foreign Mission Administrator”
Please note: You can find this article at http://www.themissionsite.com/ scroll down the home page and notice Administrators Blog on the left side. Click and you have it. Please let me know if it would be helpful to have this in your language, as I am able to translate it into several languages
God’s Peace!
Greeting from New Hampshire USA! Our weather had cooled down quite a lot in the last few days. Winter is right around the corner.
From: John Ruotsala, “Your Foreign Mission Administrator”
Please note: You can find this article at http://www.themissionsite.com/ scroll down the home page and notice Administrators Blog on the left side. Click and you have it. Please let me know if it would be helpful to have this in your language, as I am able to translate it into several languages
God’s Peace!
Greeting from New Hampshire USA! Our weather had cooled down quite a lot in the last few days. Winter is right around the corner.
The leaves have withered and fallen off the trees. I often like to see the comparisons between the natural and the spiritual. Maybe the reason for this is that our God is great, almighty and powerful, but I know that his desire is that we would be saved. He created us, and does not want to lose us. He loves us! Therefore he gives us little pictures along the way in life so we can get glimpses of what his salvation plan and the wonderful eternal life that awaits us.
I had some trouble fitting the pictures of how the leaves falling off the trees fits in with the picture of salvation. Then one day this portion of the scriptures was opened up for me to see. It is in Psalm 1:3-4 (KJV)
And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper. 4The ungodly are not so: but are like the chaff which the wind driveth away.
See, it is only the ungodly that are pictured by the leaves falling. The believer lives forever! It is so amazing how there is an answer to all our questions in scriptures if we would but just look and study! God wants us to be sure of our salvation that HE has provided through His Son, the Lord Jesus Christ.
I will share one more word picture that helps me. I know many of you have never seen snow, but I am sure you all know what it is. When it snows in our area, sometimes the snow becomes very deep. When snow is deep, no matter how your yard looks in the summertime, whether it is a very nice lawn or an unfinished one, with the snow they all look alike. They all look beautiful. Think of the snow as the pure white covering offered to us by the precious atoning work of our Lord Jesus Christ. Scripture says that when we are covered by his blood we are pure white. No matter what we were, what we have done in the past, when we are covered by His blood, we are perfect! Isaiah 1:18 (KJV)
Come now, and let us reason together, saith the Lord: though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool.
Just like the yards of both the rich and poor people in our area. They both look perfect under so much white snow.
What a special Grace that God give us when he allow us simple pictures to see his Almighty hand working all around us every day. Stop and Be still and know the HE is God! Our God wants each to be saved!
If ye be willing and obedient, ye shall eat the good of the land: Isaiah 1:19 (KJV)
His promises are sure for each of us today!
May God Truly Bless Your day and week!
In Christ, John Ruotsala
Your Foreign Mission Administrator (Please see below also)
Business Section:
Please provide me with a cell phone number that can be used for these sermons. Also, please let me know the best time of the month to have your special service. We will try our best to have services at least one time per month for all parties interested, as long as the technology works and the funding is sufficient.
Also, if you would like to get on our mailing list for our Christian Monthly, please provide me with your physical address. I could also give you the website where you could read it at. You can get to it also through our website, http://www.themissionsite.com/ Feel free to visit here often as well.
I had some trouble fitting the pictures of how the leaves falling off the trees fits in with the picture of salvation. Then one day this portion of the scriptures was opened up for me to see. It is in Psalm 1:3-4 (KJV)
And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper. 4The ungodly are not so: but are like the chaff which the wind driveth away.
See, it is only the ungodly that are pictured by the leaves falling. The believer lives forever! It is so amazing how there is an answer to all our questions in scriptures if we would but just look and study! God wants us to be sure of our salvation that HE has provided through His Son, the Lord Jesus Christ.
I will share one more word picture that helps me. I know many of you have never seen snow, but I am sure you all know what it is. When it snows in our area, sometimes the snow becomes very deep. When snow is deep, no matter how your yard looks in the summertime, whether it is a very nice lawn or an unfinished one, with the snow they all look alike. They all look beautiful. Think of the snow as the pure white covering offered to us by the precious atoning work of our Lord Jesus Christ. Scripture says that when we are covered by his blood we are pure white. No matter what we were, what we have done in the past, when we are covered by His blood, we are perfect! Isaiah 1:18 (KJV)
Come now, and let us reason together, saith the Lord: though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool.
Just like the yards of both the rich and poor people in our area. They both look perfect under so much white snow.
What a special Grace that God give us when he allow us simple pictures to see his Almighty hand working all around us every day. Stop and Be still and know the HE is God! Our God wants each to be saved!
If ye be willing and obedient, ye shall eat the good of the land: Isaiah 1:19 (KJV)
His promises are sure for each of us today!
May God Truly Bless Your day and week!
In Christ, John Ruotsala
Your Foreign Mission Administrator (Please see below also)
Business Section:
Please provide me with a cell phone number that can be used for these sermons. Also, please let me know the best time of the month to have your special service. We will try our best to have services at least one time per month for all parties interested, as long as the technology works and the funding is sufficient.
Also, if you would like to get on our mailing list for our Christian Monthly, please provide me with your physical address. I could also give you the website where you could read it at. You can get to it also through our website, http://www.themissionsite.com/ Feel free to visit here often as well.
Tuesday, November 11, 2008
Gratitude! Thanksgiving!
To: Pastors, Church Leaders, and other readers around the world!
From: John Ruotsala, “Your Foreign Mission Administrator”
Please let me know if it would be helpful to have this in your language, as I am able to translate it into several languages
From: John Ruotsala, “Your Foreign Mission Administrator”
Please let me know if it would be helpful to have this in your language, as I am able to translate it into several languages
God’s Peace!
That was the true Light, which lighteth every man that cometh into the world. John 1:9 (KJV) Jesus is that light! Some men have neglected the Light and rejected it. The light has gone out! Oh that it could be rekindled, and re ignited in the hearts of men! Thank the Lord that the day of Grace is still with us, and we pray that this Light will shine brightly so that men will be drawn unto Him, Jesus Christ our Savior!
This month our nation celebrates the Thanksgiving Holiday. Each year on a certain day, (the 4th Thursday every November), we stop and give the Lord thanks for all He gives, IS, and allows us to be! The message below reflects this!
Our message today will be by Pastor Rod Johnson of Laurium, Michigan, USA.
Gratitude!
In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you. 1 Thessalonians 5:18
Annually as a nation we celebrate the holiday of Thanksgiving. The importance of this holiday cannot be overestimated. We as humans, because of our sin nature, seem to spend more time and energy dealing with the negative aspects of life. Complaining about the government, the ‘next-door-neighbor’, the lack of money, too many bills, our ill health, we have, our spouse’s shortcomings, and on and on it goes…
We somehow think that everything should always ‘come-up-roses’ for us and that troubles should always flee away. However, the reality of life is that which Job experienced, “Man that is born of a woman is of few days, and full of trouble. Job 14:1. When we keep this in mind, we will be joyful when we have good days and thank God for them. People who have been in bondage, either spiritual or physical, rejoice in their freedom. Those who do not have enough to eat rejoice in having food to eat regardless of the quality of it. Those who are seriously ill rejoice when they feel well again.
Above all if we are burdened with the guilt of sin, we rejoice in the blessed assurance of the forgiveness of sins, thanking God for our Savior Jesus Christ our Redeemer. It is a simple thing to say “Thank You” for a blessing of some sort, whether a gift from man or a gift from God. However, a true sense of gratitude is more that a momentary giving thanks. Giving thanks is more than a quick prayer or word of grace before meals. It is an overall continual _expression in life of praising God for His mercy, love and grace. When we so live, our attitude in life and is a blessing to others, thereby serving both them and God!
Gratitude is: A moment-by-moment heartfelt gratitude to God for life and all that it contains. It is an appreciation of life in body and soul, the gift of God in Christ Jesus of the forgiveness of sins, the gift of faith to believe it, and the promise of eternal life. Therefore it is written, “In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.” The emphasis here is “In every thing” and “in Christ Jesus”, whether we consider it good of bad. Knowing the Hand of God is upon us and that His promise is that “All things work together for good to those who love God”! How could it be wrong? This is what FAITH accomplishes in us and why the Lord teaches us to be grateful and GIVE HIM THANKS!
Serving the Lord with Thanksgiving,
Thanking Him for Jesus,
In the Peace of the Lord,
Pastor Rod
May God Truly Bless Your day and week!
In Christ, John Ruotsala
Your Foreign Mission Administrator (Please see below also)
Business Section: Starting soon! Additional sermons on Skype!
Please provide me with a cell phone number that can be used for these sermons. Also, please let me know the best time of the month to have your special service. We will try our best to have services at least one time per month for all parties interested, as long as the technology works and the funding is sufficient.
Also, if you would like to get on our mailing list for our Christian Monthly, please provide me with your physical address. I could also give you the website where you could read it at. You can get to it also through our website, www.themissionsite.com Feel free to visit here often as well.
Friday, November 7, 2008
Translation available
Please let me know if you would like messages posted here in your first language. I am able to translate into several languages so that you are able to read the aritcles more easily! The note posted below is in Telegu. Just email me at jthree16@comcast.net and I will try to arrange this for you! In Christ! John
తో చ్రిస్తిఅంస్ ఇన్ ఇండియా!
తో ఔర్ ఫ్రెండ్స్ ఇన్ ఇండియా! గ్రీటింగ్స్ ఇన్ ది నేమ్ అఫ్ ఔర్ లార్డ్ జీసస్ క్రైస్ట్! దోఎస్ థిస్ వర్క్ ఔట్ గుడ్ ఫర్ యు? ఐ విల్ టైపు ఇన్ తెలేగు ఈఫ్ ఇట్ విల్ బె తో యౌర్ అద్వంతగే! ప్లీజ్ లేట్ మే క్నౌ బి ఏమైలింగ్ @కంకాస్ట్.నెట్ ఐ డో నాట్ క్నౌ యౌర్ లాంగ్వేజ్, బట్ ది కంప్యూటర్ త్రన్స్లతెస్ ఫర్ మే. ప్లీజ్ బె ఇన్ టచ్! ఇన్ క్రైస్ట్! జాన్ రుతోసల
This Blogger recieved this message from India.
Dear John Routsala
" Greetings to you in the name above all names "
We are so blessed to receive your encouraging messages which are so much blessing to all our congregations . Thank you so very much for the blessed time you take to pass on the messages. we are so thankful to you for giving us the opportunity to share your blessed messages in all the villages we go through . we are so glad to testify that we see many hardened hearts receiving HIM as their Lord and savior.
ps: i request you to keep in your prayers as our Lord Almighty put in us the thought to share the blessed messages you forward to us via FM broadcasting or via TV so that we may reach many more unsaved/ unreached souls through broad casting.
please pray for our small ministry working in the rural part in India. AS there are many yet reached villages where the Word of God is to be reached. please encourage us in this precious assignment to share His gospel in the yet reached villages .
await to your gracious reply and your prayerful answer regarding to the request .
Thank you
yours in His service,
Sis Evangeline AShok
INDIA
Dear John Routsala
" Greetings to you in the name above all names "
We are so blessed to receive your encouraging messages which are so much blessing to all our congregations . Thank you so very much for the blessed time you take to pass on the messages. we are so thankful to you for giving us the opportunity to share your blessed messages in all the villages we go through . we are so glad to testify that we see many hardened hearts receiving HIM as their Lord and savior.
ps: i request you to keep in your prayers as our Lord Almighty put in us the thought to share the blessed messages you forward to us via FM broadcasting or via TV so that we may reach many more unsaved/ unreached souls through broad casting.
please pray for our small ministry working in the rural part in India. AS there are many yet reached villages where the Word of God is to be reached. please encourage us in this precious assignment to share His gospel in the yet reached villages .
await to your gracious reply and your prayerful answer regarding to the request .
Thank you
yours in His service,
Sis Evangeline AShok
INDIA
Tuesday, November 4, 2008
అద్మినిస్త్రతొర్'స Blog
To: Pastors, Church Leaders, and other readers around the world!
From: John Ruotsala, “Your Foreign Mission Administrator”
God’s Peace!
Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. 6In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths. Proverbs 3:5-6
These words of our Lord are on my heart and mind this morning as I write this letter. So many portions of scripture assure us that the Lord is in control of our lives. Even today as the USA has the presidential elections, we know that the Lord is in control. He is watching over us and the whole world. We as individuals may not get our own way at the moment, but we know according to scripture… And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose. Romans 8:28 (KJV)
We have such an Almighty God in control! Even though we have setbacks in this life, there is such a bright beacon of hope waiting for those that love God. This life may be racked with pain and sorry, but eternity is forever. This life is at best up to 100 years long or so. This is just a flash compared to eternity! Imagine dear reader, Glory in Heaven forever! No sorry, no sadness, no pain there, only joy and gladness! We cannot even compare. In our best imaginations, we cannot know how wonderful heaven will be because it will be so much better than we can picture!
So now when we look at the country we live in, remember the words of our Lord:
If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land. 2 Chron. 7:14 (KJV) As the USA turns more and more away from God, as the Children of God did in the old testament so many times, we have this promise to trust, that He will forgive them if they repent. Pray this for each of your countries. If the people would repent and believe the Gospel, and live according to HIS WORD, they will be blessed. Pray this also for the USA, which has been drifting further away from God for many years now. The Lord has blessed the USA so much in the past, because the people believed in Him. As they turn away from God they become hardened and cannot see God and His Promises clearly anymore.
So dear pastors and dear Christians everywhere, do not weary! Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine. 2 Tim. 4:2 (KJV)
The Lord Jesus Christ came for all, even our leaders that do not trust and believe in him. This is why the believer is here on this sinful earth still during this time of grace. To spread the saving Gospel of Jesus Christ! In Romans 10:14 is says: How then shall they call on him in whom they have not believed? and how shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard? and how shall they hear without a preacher?
The Gospel of Luke says in Ch.24 v47: And that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in his name among all nations, beginning at Jerusalem.
This is the glorious Gospel that must be preached for all to hear! Call out dear Christian, be a watchman on the tower! Blow the trumpet! Thousands are dying each day. Oh, that they could hear, repent, and believe according to scriptures, that all their sins are forgiven by and through the Name and precious shed blood of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. The perfect atoning work that HE has done! He died on the cross for me! He died on the cross for you! He died on the cross for all! He has conquered all. He has won the VICTORY over death, hell, and the power of the devil. He is ALIVE! He arose on the third day! He ascended into heaven! He LIVES! Oh that we could all be even more aware of the fact that we worship a LIVING GOD! The LIVING GOD is in control of all things! What a comfort for the believer today!
Now unto him that is able to keep you from falling, and to present you faultless before the presence of his glory with exceeding joy, 25To the only wise God our Saviour, be glory and majesty, dominion and power, both now and ever. Amen. Jude 1:24-25 (KJV)
May God Truly Bless Your day and week!
In Christ, John Ruotsala
Your Foreign Mission Administrator (Please see below also)
Business Section: Starting soon! Additional sermons on Skype!
Please provide me with a cell phone number that can be used for these sermons. Also, please let me know the best time of the month to have your special service. We will try our best to have services at least one time per month for all parties interested, as long as the technology works and the funding is sufficient.
Also, if you would like to get on our mailing list for our Christian Monthly, please provide me with your physical address. I could also give you the website where you could read it at. You can get to it also through our website, www.themissionsite.com Feel free to visit here often as well.
From: John Ruotsala, “Your Foreign Mission Administrator”
God’s Peace!
Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. 6In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths. Proverbs 3:5-6
These words of our Lord are on my heart and mind this morning as I write this letter. So many portions of scripture assure us that the Lord is in control of our lives. Even today as the USA has the presidential elections, we know that the Lord is in control. He is watching over us and the whole world. We as individuals may not get our own way at the moment, but we know according to scripture… And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose. Romans 8:28 (KJV)
We have such an Almighty God in control! Even though we have setbacks in this life, there is such a bright beacon of hope waiting for those that love God. This life may be racked with pain and sorry, but eternity is forever. This life is at best up to 100 years long or so. This is just a flash compared to eternity! Imagine dear reader, Glory in Heaven forever! No sorry, no sadness, no pain there, only joy and gladness! We cannot even compare. In our best imaginations, we cannot know how wonderful heaven will be because it will be so much better than we can picture!
So now when we look at the country we live in, remember the words of our Lord:
If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land. 2 Chron. 7:14 (KJV) As the USA turns more and more away from God, as the Children of God did in the old testament so many times, we have this promise to trust, that He will forgive them if they repent. Pray this for each of your countries. If the people would repent and believe the Gospel, and live according to HIS WORD, they will be blessed. Pray this also for the USA, which has been drifting further away from God for many years now. The Lord has blessed the USA so much in the past, because the people believed in Him. As they turn away from God they become hardened and cannot see God and His Promises clearly anymore.
So dear pastors and dear Christians everywhere, do not weary! Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine. 2 Tim. 4:2 (KJV)
The Lord Jesus Christ came for all, even our leaders that do not trust and believe in him. This is why the believer is here on this sinful earth still during this time of grace. To spread the saving Gospel of Jesus Christ! In Romans 10:14 is says: How then shall they call on him in whom they have not believed? and how shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard? and how shall they hear without a preacher?
The Gospel of Luke says in Ch.24 v47: And that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in his name among all nations, beginning at Jerusalem.
This is the glorious Gospel that must be preached for all to hear! Call out dear Christian, be a watchman on the tower! Blow the trumpet! Thousands are dying each day. Oh, that they could hear, repent, and believe according to scriptures, that all their sins are forgiven by and through the Name and precious shed blood of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. The perfect atoning work that HE has done! He died on the cross for me! He died on the cross for you! He died on the cross for all! He has conquered all. He has won the VICTORY over death, hell, and the power of the devil. He is ALIVE! He arose on the third day! He ascended into heaven! He LIVES! Oh that we could all be even more aware of the fact that we worship a LIVING GOD! The LIVING GOD is in control of all things! What a comfort for the believer today!
Now unto him that is able to keep you from falling, and to present you faultless before the presence of his glory with exceeding joy, 25To the only wise God our Saviour, be glory and majesty, dominion and power, both now and ever. Amen. Jude 1:24-25 (KJV)
May God Truly Bless Your day and week!
In Christ, John Ruotsala
Your Foreign Mission Administrator (Please see below also)
Business Section: Starting soon! Additional sermons on Skype!
Please provide me with a cell phone number that can be used for these sermons. Also, please let me know the best time of the month to have your special service. We will try our best to have services at least one time per month for all parties interested, as long as the technology works and the funding is sufficient.
Also, if you would like to get on our mailing list for our Christian Monthly, please provide me with your physical address. I could also give you the website where you could read it at. You can get to it also through our website, www.themissionsite.com Feel free to visit here often as well.
Tuesday, October 28, 2008
To: Pastors, Church Leaders, and other Friends around the world!
From: John Ruotsala, “Your Foreign Mission Administrator”
Hello Fellow Christians! God’s Peace!
I pray and trust that God has led you safely through another week! I trust you have been faithful according to the strength God has given you, in proclaiming the message of our Lord Jesus Christ. This message must be preached to the unbeliever so that by God’s grace they could come to Jesus Christ through repentance, and to the believer who needs to be strengthened by the Holy Word along their way through this life!
Today our blog will be is written by Pastor Orval Wirkkala, who is also a Foreign Mission Board Member.
Good Morning, Dear Family.Philippians1:3-6 I thank my God upon every remembrance of you, {remembrance: or, mention} Always in every prayer of mine for you all making request with joy, For your fellowship in the gospel from the first day until now; Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ: Can we not echo the words of Apostle Paul, who while in prison wrote the above words under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit? Words which communicate to us this day of the blessing that we have received from the Good Samaritan who showed(s) us how to be a neighborly. May the Lord bless your week as you live, move and have your being in the grace of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. KJV 1 John 4:9 In this was manifested the love of God toward us, because that God sent his only begotten Son into the world, that we might live through him.Luke 10:33-37 But a certain Samaritan, as he journeyed, came where he was: and when he saw him, he had compassion on him, And went to him, and bound up his wounds, pouring in oil and wine, and set him on his own beast, and brought him to an inn, and took care of him. And on the morrow when he departed, he took out two pence, and gave them to the host, and said unto him, Take care of him; and whatsoever thou spendest more, when I come again, I will repay thee.Which now of these three, thinkest thou, was neighbour unto him that fell among the thieves?And he said, He that shewed mercy on him. Then said Jesus unto him, Go, and do thou likewise.KJV Mark 5:18-19 And when he was come into the ship, he that had been possessed with the devil prayed him that he might be with him. Howbeit Jesus suffered him not, but saith unto him, Go home to thy friends, and tell them how great things the Lord hath done for thee, and hath had compassion on thee.In relation to our recent meditations, I am enclosing the words of a song which has been written by Alvar Helmes and a song which he wishes to be sung and distributed near and far. Here are the words:Come, Christian Friend, and Help Us!Verse 1: We have heard there is a Savior,Who can wash away our sin,But we don’t know where to find him,In our land, so dark within.Verse 2: We feel guilty for our actions,We need help along the way,We have burdens in our lives,We’re in need of your presence today. Verse 3: We need teaching from the Bible,In truth, from Heav’n above,Dear Christian friend, please help us,Hear our plea, with all of your love.Chorus: Come, Christian friend, and help us,We need the Gospel of truth,Come, spread your Savior’s message,To our aged and youth.Come, Christian friend, and teach us,We long to be in God’s favor,Come, guide and point the way,Tell about Jesus, the Savior.In Christ,Pastor Orval Wirkkala
May God Truly Bless Your day and week! Be Always Found in Christ Jesus our Lord! Love, John Ruotsala Your Foreign Mission Administrator (Please see below also)
Business Section: Starting soon! Additional sermons on Skype!
Please provide me with the following information. Remember, a cell phone works fine as well.
Do you have a working computer in your church or home (most do not, but a cell phone works) 2) what is your cell phone number? 3) Do you have a translator of English available for the service time? 4) What day and time is best for you to have these sermons? 5) What is your time zone? 6) How many people would be listening? 7) Do you have a microphone speaker system that you can put the cell phone near to people can hear well? If interested, please respond! We want you to be able to be part of this ministry!
Also, if you would like to get on our mailing list for our Christian Monthly, please provide me with your physical address. I could also give you the website where you could read it at. You can get to it also through our website, www.themissionsite.com Feel free to visit here often as well.
From: John Ruotsala, “Your Foreign Mission Administrator”
Hello Fellow Christians! God’s Peace!
I pray and trust that God has led you safely through another week! I trust you have been faithful according to the strength God has given you, in proclaiming the message of our Lord Jesus Christ. This message must be preached to the unbeliever so that by God’s grace they could come to Jesus Christ through repentance, and to the believer who needs to be strengthened by the Holy Word along their way through this life!
Today our blog will be is written by Pastor Orval Wirkkala, who is also a Foreign Mission Board Member.
Good Morning, Dear Family.Philippians1:3-6 I thank my God upon every remembrance of you, {remembrance: or, mention} Always in every prayer of mine for you all making request with joy, For your fellowship in the gospel from the first day until now; Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ: Can we not echo the words of Apostle Paul, who while in prison wrote the above words under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit? Words which communicate to us this day of the blessing that we have received from the Good Samaritan who showed(s) us how to be a neighborly. May the Lord bless your week as you live, move and have your being in the grace of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. KJV 1 John 4:9 In this was manifested the love of God toward us, because that God sent his only begotten Son into the world, that we might live through him.Luke 10:33-37 But a certain Samaritan, as he journeyed, came where he was: and when he saw him, he had compassion on him, And went to him, and bound up his wounds, pouring in oil and wine, and set him on his own beast, and brought him to an inn, and took care of him. And on the morrow when he departed, he took out two pence, and gave them to the host, and said unto him, Take care of him; and whatsoever thou spendest more, when I come again, I will repay thee.Which now of these three, thinkest thou, was neighbour unto him that fell among the thieves?And he said, He that shewed mercy on him. Then said Jesus unto him, Go, and do thou likewise.KJV Mark 5:18-19 And when he was come into the ship, he that had been possessed with the devil prayed him that he might be with him. Howbeit Jesus suffered him not, but saith unto him, Go home to thy friends, and tell them how great things the Lord hath done for thee, and hath had compassion on thee.In relation to our recent meditations, I am enclosing the words of a song which has been written by Alvar Helmes and a song which he wishes to be sung and distributed near and far. Here are the words:Come, Christian Friend, and Help Us!Verse 1: We have heard there is a Savior,Who can wash away our sin,But we don’t know where to find him,In our land, so dark within.Verse 2: We feel guilty for our actions,We need help along the way,We have burdens in our lives,We’re in need of your presence today. Verse 3: We need teaching from the Bible,In truth, from Heav’n above,Dear Christian friend, please help us,Hear our plea, with all of your love.Chorus: Come, Christian friend, and help us,We need the Gospel of truth,Come, spread your Savior’s message,To our aged and youth.Come, Christian friend, and teach us,We long to be in God’s favor,Come, guide and point the way,Tell about Jesus, the Savior.In Christ,Pastor Orval Wirkkala
May God Truly Bless Your day and week! Be Always Found in Christ Jesus our Lord! Love, John Ruotsala Your Foreign Mission Administrator (Please see below also)
Business Section: Starting soon! Additional sermons on Skype!
Please provide me with the following information. Remember, a cell phone works fine as well.
Do you have a working computer in your church or home (most do not, but a cell phone works) 2) what is your cell phone number? 3) Do you have a translator of English available for the service time? 4) What day and time is best for you to have these sermons? 5) What is your time zone? 6) How many people would be listening? 7) Do you have a microphone speaker system that you can put the cell phone near to people can hear well? If interested, please respond! We want you to be able to be part of this ministry!
Also, if you would like to get on our mailing list for our Christian Monthly, please provide me with your physical address. I could also give you the website where you could read it at. You can get to it also through our website, www.themissionsite.com Feel free to visit here often as well.
Thursday, October 23, 2008
10/22/08 FM Administrator's Blog
To: Pastors, Church Leaders, and other Friends around the world!
From: John Ruotsala, “Your Foreign Mission Administrator”
Hello Fellow Christians! God’s Peace!
This week, my studies have been in the Old Testament in the book of Genesis. I have been reading about Joseph. This man Joseph was such a Godly man. He was tested, tried, and proven over and over. He always held up to the tests! His faith was strong. What an example for all of us to follow. I would really encourage all to read the story of Joseph. It starts in Chapter 37 when he was 17 years old. Except for chapter 38 it continues for the rest of the book of Genesis. I would recommend starting at least by chapter 15 however, so that you could get a glimpse of what Joseph’s lineage was. You will here begin to see the lineage that Joseph and our Christian heritage came from.
This amazing story, goes from Abraham, to Isaac, to Jacob, and then to Joseph. Great miracles and happening were going on every step of the way. This is so very interesting! The Bible which our Lord has given us is totally true, and is the inspired word of God. And my how inspiring it is, and how inspiring so many of the people it tells about are!
As you read this story in the bible, watch very closely for the hand of the Lord guiding it all. The Lord is still guiding his children, of that we can be assured. Also, watch very closely for the fore shadow of our Lord Jesus Christ! He was there before the foundations of the world, and he surely is there in this story of Joseph. He is also here today. It is all by, through, and for the Glory of our Lord Jesus Christ!
The story of Joseph climaxes as his brothers have come to him. He was now the highest in command in Egypt under on Pharaoh the king. Then his brothers came unto him for food. They had to come because of a famine in the home land. They are the ones that cast him into the pit so many years ago. They are the ones that sold him as a slave. They are the ones that he could have put to death. They are the ones that deserved nothing but punishment. But Joseph, he forgave them. They confessed that they were guilty. He did not hold there sin against him. He forgave them! He took them in, he nourished them. He protected him, he saved their life.
What a picture of our Lord Jesus Christ! Jesus came down from heaven above. Jesus was hated by his brothers. He was not accepted by his own. He was crucified. Jesus was put also into the pit (the grave) Jesus arose from the grave. Jesus won the victory. Jesus was sent for the salvation of all men. All men have opportunity to be saved through was Jesus has done!
Jesus is again on the throne of the King in Heaven. He is watching over us. He is telling the father that our sins are forgiven by what he had done for us. Believe by Faith that all your sins are forgiven by what Jesus has done. Encourage others to believe that Jesus paid the price for them as well. If one is not a Christian, tell them to repent, confess their sins, and believe in forgiveness of all their sins through the name and shed blood of our Lord Jesus Christ. All can be new for the sinner that repents. Praise be to God for our Lord Jesus Christ!
What a day Glorious Day that will be when we see Jesus again! Face to Face like in the story of Joseph and his brothers! Please see the attached song:
What A Day That Will Be
There is coming a day when no heartaches shall comeNo more clouds in the sky, no more tears to dim the eye.All is peace forevermore on that happy golden shore,What a day, glorious day that will be.
ChorusWhat a day that will be when my Jesus I shall see,And I look upon His face,The One who saved me by His grace;When He takes me by the handAnd leads me through the Promised Land,What a day, glorious day that will be.
There'll be no sorrow there, no more burdens to bear,No more sickness, no pain, no more parting over there;And forever I will be with the One who died for me,What a day, glorious day that will be.
ChorusWhat a day that will be when my Jesus I shall see,And I look upon His face,The One who saved me by His grace;When He takes me by the handAnd leads me through the Promised Land,What a day, glorious day that will be.What a day, glorious day that will be!
May God Truly Bless Your day and week! Be Always Found in Christ Jesus our Lord! Love, John Ruotsala (Please see below also)
Business Section:
In responding to last weeks email, some of you have said that you would like to be able to listen to sermons preached by pastors in the USA via skype. In order to start setting this up, please provide me with the following information. Remember, a cell phone works fine as well.
Do you have a working computer in your church or home (most do not, but a cell phone works) 2) what is your cell phone number? 3) Do you have a translator of English available for the service time? 4) What day and time is best for you to have these sermons? 5) What is your time zone? 6) How many people would be listening? 7) Do you have a microphone speaker system that you can put the cell phone near to people can hear well? If interested, please respond!
From: John Ruotsala, “Your Foreign Mission Administrator”
Hello Fellow Christians! God’s Peace!
This week, my studies have been in the Old Testament in the book of Genesis. I have been reading about Joseph. This man Joseph was such a Godly man. He was tested, tried, and proven over and over. He always held up to the tests! His faith was strong. What an example for all of us to follow. I would really encourage all to read the story of Joseph. It starts in Chapter 37 when he was 17 years old. Except for chapter 38 it continues for the rest of the book of Genesis. I would recommend starting at least by chapter 15 however, so that you could get a glimpse of what Joseph’s lineage was. You will here begin to see the lineage that Joseph and our Christian heritage came from.
This amazing story, goes from Abraham, to Isaac, to Jacob, and then to Joseph. Great miracles and happening were going on every step of the way. This is so very interesting! The Bible which our Lord has given us is totally true, and is the inspired word of God. And my how inspiring it is, and how inspiring so many of the people it tells about are!
As you read this story in the bible, watch very closely for the hand of the Lord guiding it all. The Lord is still guiding his children, of that we can be assured. Also, watch very closely for the fore shadow of our Lord Jesus Christ! He was there before the foundations of the world, and he surely is there in this story of Joseph. He is also here today. It is all by, through, and for the Glory of our Lord Jesus Christ!
The story of Joseph climaxes as his brothers have come to him. He was now the highest in command in Egypt under on Pharaoh the king. Then his brothers came unto him for food. They had to come because of a famine in the home land. They are the ones that cast him into the pit so many years ago. They are the ones that sold him as a slave. They are the ones that he could have put to death. They are the ones that deserved nothing but punishment. But Joseph, he forgave them. They confessed that they were guilty. He did not hold there sin against him. He forgave them! He took them in, he nourished them. He protected him, he saved their life.
What a picture of our Lord Jesus Christ! Jesus came down from heaven above. Jesus was hated by his brothers. He was not accepted by his own. He was crucified. Jesus was put also into the pit (the grave) Jesus arose from the grave. Jesus won the victory. Jesus was sent for the salvation of all men. All men have opportunity to be saved through was Jesus has done!
Jesus is again on the throne of the King in Heaven. He is watching over us. He is telling the father that our sins are forgiven by what he had done for us. Believe by Faith that all your sins are forgiven by what Jesus has done. Encourage others to believe that Jesus paid the price for them as well. If one is not a Christian, tell them to repent, confess their sins, and believe in forgiveness of all their sins through the name and shed blood of our Lord Jesus Christ. All can be new for the sinner that repents. Praise be to God for our Lord Jesus Christ!
What a day Glorious Day that will be when we see Jesus again! Face to Face like in the story of Joseph and his brothers! Please see the attached song:
What A Day That Will Be
There is coming a day when no heartaches shall comeNo more clouds in the sky, no more tears to dim the eye.All is peace forevermore on that happy golden shore,What a day, glorious day that will be.
ChorusWhat a day that will be when my Jesus I shall see,And I look upon His face,The One who saved me by His grace;When He takes me by the handAnd leads me through the Promised Land,What a day, glorious day that will be.
There'll be no sorrow there, no more burdens to bear,No more sickness, no pain, no more parting over there;And forever I will be with the One who died for me,What a day, glorious day that will be.
ChorusWhat a day that will be when my Jesus I shall see,And I look upon His face,The One who saved me by His grace;When He takes me by the handAnd leads me through the Promised Land,What a day, glorious day that will be.What a day, glorious day that will be!
May God Truly Bless Your day and week! Be Always Found in Christ Jesus our Lord! Love, John Ruotsala (Please see below also)
Business Section:
In responding to last weeks email, some of you have said that you would like to be able to listen to sermons preached by pastors in the USA via skype. In order to start setting this up, please provide me with the following information. Remember, a cell phone works fine as well.
Do you have a working computer in your church or home (most do not, but a cell phone works) 2) what is your cell phone number? 3) Do you have a translator of English available for the service time? 4) What day and time is best for you to have these sermons? 5) What is your time zone? 6) How many people would be listening? 7) Do you have a microphone speaker system that you can put the cell phone near to people can hear well? If interested, please respond!
10/15/08 FM Administrator's Blog
To: Pastors, Church Leaders, and other Friends around the world!
From: John Ruotsala, “Your Foreign Mission Administrator”
Hello Fellow Christians! God’s Peace!
My how fast these weeks go! I hope this note finds that all of you have made it safely and soundly through this past week. Last weeks message was about how God provides. The week that just passed is evidence to me as well as to you I am sure, that yes, God provides, and has kept us for one more week. His promises are sure, and he will keep providing! He even provided a home in heaven for another dear Christian whom my wife and I visited with last Friday night. Judy Somero passed away, but again, God’s provisions are sure, even if it means being moved from here to our final home in Heaven! What a joy to be a Christian! Things only greatly improve when we die! To God Be All The Glory!! Great things HE Has done!
This weeks message is from Pastor Orval Wirkkala. Orval is a pastor in the ALCA in Kingston Minnesota, USA and has been on many trips sponsored by The Foreign Mission. I will use his uplifting notes from time to time in these blogs! Here’s Orval!
Good Morning, Dear Brothers in Christ!
May the abundant grace of God be received and multiplied unto us today as we start a new day of opportunity to rejoice in the matchless giving of Himself for us, a thankfulness which can best be outwardly expressed through giving of ourselves in service to others in love. From the miracle of the feeding of the multitude by Jesus we are able to see in a practical way in which blessing received translates into blessing extended due to its abundance.
KJV John 6:11-13 And Jesus took the loaves; and when he had given thanks, he distributed to the disciples, and the disciples to them that were set down; and likewise of the fishes as much as they would. When they were filled, he said unto his disciples, Gather up the fragments that remain, that nothing be lost. Therefore they gathered them together, and filled twelve baskets with the fragments of the five barley loaves, which remained over and above unto them that had eaten.
Let us look at this in this way. Whenever we experience the joy of fellowship within the body of Christ, there is always more left over of that which we received from the hand of God through being around the Word of God, whether it was through the hearing/reading of the Word, through fellowship with other members of the body of Christ around the Word of God, whether it is in prayer with Him individually or corporately, whether it is through the enjoyment of experiencing of the beauties of creation, whether it is communing together at His table......,or however the Bread of Life is received and experienced into our mind, heart and soul. Is it not true that upon being strengthened by the various means of grace that we are so encouraged and so strengthened in the joy of the Lord that it is difficult to keep it to ourselves? Is that your experience? Has it been in the past? I think it is a common experience for all of us, for that is simply how the body of Chirst works today. There is no difference between how He ministered when He walked on this earth and how the body of Christ ministers today. Let us take at look at a couple verses in the scripture which would illustrate this. (Please read the surrounding passages so as to understand the context in which they were written, but they still are able to stand alone in order to illustrate this truth that grace received always gladdens us as well as empowers us to extend it to others).
KJV Isaiah 58:11 And the LORD shall guide thee continually, and satisfy thy soul in drought, and make fat thy bones: and thou shalt be like a watered garden, and like a spring of water, whose waters fail not. KJV John 7:38 He that believeth on me, as the scripture hath said, out of his belly(heart, innermost being) shall flow rivers of living water. I might add a little comment here: For years I understood this only from the standpoint to mean that as long as we believed according to the Bible (we were scripturally correct in our doctrine) we would be a blessing to others. But it has opened up to have a richer meaning, for now it seems that it means more in this sense that the Scripture has said that when we believe on Him, out of our heart will flow the blessing of life to others. The first understanding is certainly necessary and correct, but to me the further revelation opened up to me more joy in my heart and soul at the understanding that we are more like a conduit pipe than a reservoir within ourselves. Which is what Isaiah wrote when he described the life concerning of how blessing received causes us to be a blessing to others. How about one more example:
KJV Genesis 12:1-3 Now the LORD had said unto Abram, Get thee out of thy country, and from thy kindred, and from thy father's house, unto a land that I will shew thee: And I will make of thee a great nation, and I will bless thee, and make thy name great; and thou shalt be a blessing:
And I will bless them that bless thee, and curse him that curseth thee: and in thee shall all families of the earth be blessed.
Through Abraham we have received the promise of the Blessing into our lives through Jesus Christ. Because we have been blessed in and by Christ and are in Him today, may we be a blessing to those who are placed in our paths today, beginning with those who are the closest to us, our families.
In Christ,
Pastor Orval Wirkkala
May God Truly Bless Your day and week! Be Always Found in Christ Jesus our Lord! Love, John Ruotsala (Please see below also)
Business Section:
In responding to last weeks email, some of you have said that you would like to be able to listen to sermons preached by pastors in the USA via skype. In order to start setting this up, please provide me with the following information. Remember, a cell phone works fine as well.
Do you have a working computer in your church or home (most do not, but a cell phone works) 2) what is your cell phone number? 3) Do you have a translator of English available for the service time? 4) What day and time is best for you to have these sermons? 5) What is your time zone? 6) How many people would be listening? 7) Do you have a microphone speaker system that you can put the cell phone near to people can hear well? If interested, please respond!
From: John Ruotsala, “Your Foreign Mission Administrator”
Hello Fellow Christians! God’s Peace!
My how fast these weeks go! I hope this note finds that all of you have made it safely and soundly through this past week. Last weeks message was about how God provides. The week that just passed is evidence to me as well as to you I am sure, that yes, God provides, and has kept us for one more week. His promises are sure, and he will keep providing! He even provided a home in heaven for another dear Christian whom my wife and I visited with last Friday night. Judy Somero passed away, but again, God’s provisions are sure, even if it means being moved from here to our final home in Heaven! What a joy to be a Christian! Things only greatly improve when we die! To God Be All The Glory!! Great things HE Has done!
This weeks message is from Pastor Orval Wirkkala. Orval is a pastor in the ALCA in Kingston Minnesota, USA and has been on many trips sponsored by The Foreign Mission. I will use his uplifting notes from time to time in these blogs! Here’s Orval!
Good Morning, Dear Brothers in Christ!
May the abundant grace of God be received and multiplied unto us today as we start a new day of opportunity to rejoice in the matchless giving of Himself for us, a thankfulness which can best be outwardly expressed through giving of ourselves in service to others in love. From the miracle of the feeding of the multitude by Jesus we are able to see in a practical way in which blessing received translates into blessing extended due to its abundance.
KJV John 6:11-13 And Jesus took the loaves; and when he had given thanks, he distributed to the disciples, and the disciples to them that were set down; and likewise of the fishes as much as they would. When they were filled, he said unto his disciples, Gather up the fragments that remain, that nothing be lost. Therefore they gathered them together, and filled twelve baskets with the fragments of the five barley loaves, which remained over and above unto them that had eaten.
Let us look at this in this way. Whenever we experience the joy of fellowship within the body of Christ, there is always more left over of that which we received from the hand of God through being around the Word of God, whether it was through the hearing/reading of the Word, through fellowship with other members of the body of Christ around the Word of God, whether it is in prayer with Him individually or corporately, whether it is through the enjoyment of experiencing of the beauties of creation, whether it is communing together at His table......,or however the Bread of Life is received and experienced into our mind, heart and soul. Is it not true that upon being strengthened by the various means of grace that we are so encouraged and so strengthened in the joy of the Lord that it is difficult to keep it to ourselves? Is that your experience? Has it been in the past? I think it is a common experience for all of us, for that is simply how the body of Chirst works today. There is no difference between how He ministered when He walked on this earth and how the body of Christ ministers today. Let us take at look at a couple verses in the scripture which would illustrate this. (Please read the surrounding passages so as to understand the context in which they were written, but they still are able to stand alone in order to illustrate this truth that grace received always gladdens us as well as empowers us to extend it to others).
KJV Isaiah 58:11 And the LORD shall guide thee continually, and satisfy thy soul in drought, and make fat thy bones: and thou shalt be like a watered garden, and like a spring of water, whose waters fail not. KJV John 7:38 He that believeth on me, as the scripture hath said, out of his belly(heart, innermost being) shall flow rivers of living water. I might add a little comment here: For years I understood this only from the standpoint to mean that as long as we believed according to the Bible (we were scripturally correct in our doctrine) we would be a blessing to others. But it has opened up to have a richer meaning, for now it seems that it means more in this sense that the Scripture has said that when we believe on Him, out of our heart will flow the blessing of life to others. The first understanding is certainly necessary and correct, but to me the further revelation opened up to me more joy in my heart and soul at the understanding that we are more like a conduit pipe than a reservoir within ourselves. Which is what Isaiah wrote when he described the life concerning of how blessing received causes us to be a blessing to others. How about one more example:
KJV Genesis 12:1-3 Now the LORD had said unto Abram, Get thee out of thy country, and from thy kindred, and from thy father's house, unto a land that I will shew thee: And I will make of thee a great nation, and I will bless thee, and make thy name great; and thou shalt be a blessing:
And I will bless them that bless thee, and curse him that curseth thee: and in thee shall all families of the earth be blessed.
Through Abraham we have received the promise of the Blessing into our lives through Jesus Christ. Because we have been blessed in and by Christ and are in Him today, may we be a blessing to those who are placed in our paths today, beginning with those who are the closest to us, our families.
In Christ,
Pastor Orval Wirkkala
May God Truly Bless Your day and week! Be Always Found in Christ Jesus our Lord! Love, John Ruotsala (Please see below also)
Business Section:
In responding to last weeks email, some of you have said that you would like to be able to listen to sermons preached by pastors in the USA via skype. In order to start setting this up, please provide me with the following information. Remember, a cell phone works fine as well.
Do you have a working computer in your church or home (most do not, but a cell phone works) 2) what is your cell phone number? 3) Do you have a translator of English available for the service time? 4) What day and time is best for you to have these sermons? 5) What is your time zone? 6) How many people would be listening? 7) Do you have a microphone speaker system that you can put the cell phone near to people can hear well? If interested, please respond!
10/08/08 Administrators Blog
To: Pastors, Church Leaders, and other Friends around the world!
From: John Ruotsala, “Your Foreign Mission Administrator”
Hello Fellow Christians! God’s Peace!
This is our second weekly communication! I was so happy to hear from so many of you this past week. Much has happened in our world since last week.
I would truly encourage you to look to Jesus, our Lord and Savior, for all your strength and comfort! Always look to Him, especially in times like these. Many of you may be hearing the news of how great turmoil the world is in. Even in the USA there are many great problems with our economy. This has many people in fear of how to pay their bills, and where their daily bread will come from. Please remember that our daily bread (all things) is supplied by the Lord. We often ask him for our Daily Bread in the Lord’s Prayer. In the Bible the promise is that He provides food for even the birds. He will surely provide us with food and shelter. Too often it seems there may not be enough food, good enough shelter, and often we want this or that that we do not have. This is because of the fall in the Garden of Eden by Adam and Eve. Sin entered into the world and continues to molest today. There is also much death and dying due to the fall. Two weeks ago, I lost a precious 3 year old great nephew to cancer. Last night we lost a young mother in our community to cancer. Death and dying is all around us due to the fall of man. Much other sadness and sin sickness has been in the world since the fall.
However, the Lord, through his infinite wisdom and love, has provided an escape from all of this! That Escape, that Healer, the Feeder, that Comforter, Physician, The Mighty One, the King of Kings, the Lord of Lords, is our Lord Jesus Christ! Through Him we overcome! He has already won the victory for us! The devil had been defeated! Let us lay hold of this by faith. Let us believe and continue to believe that all our sins are forgiven through the Name of Jesus and His precious cleansing blood! He has bought us back! He has redeemed us! He has made us whole! When we deserved nothing but punishment, he has loved us and died for us! Praise our Lord for this!
Believe Dear Christian Friend, that the victory is yours! The victory is for each one that lays hold by faith of all that Jesus has done! With Him we are the richest of the rich! Because of our Lord Jesus, we can look forward toward the day when will have all the Glories of Heaven forever, and be worshipping Him eternally! What a Day that will be when My Jesus I see in that Beautiful City of Gold!
It is so nice to know that so many around the world, in so many countries, have this same living Hope of Glory through Christ Jesus! So many looking to be in Heaven one Day! So many that Worship our Lord! It is such as joy that believers not only have this eternal joy and happiness to look forward to, but we have the right to Peace that passes all understanding while here on earth!. A joy unspeakable! Life in Christ Jesus is the best possible life one can have! No matter what comes, Christians are safe in the arms of Jesus! They can truly say, This is the Day that the Lord hath made, let us be glad and rejoice in it!
I truly get overjoyed just typing these words out to my Christian friends and to anyone that will listen.. It seems like I could just keep typing, but I promised to keep these short so I will stop.
May God Truly Bless Your day and week! Be Always Found in Christ Jesus our Lord! Love, John Ruotsala (Please see below also)
Business Section:
In responding to last weeks email, some of you have said that you would like to be able to listen to sermons preached by pastors in the USA via skype. In order to start setting this up, please provide me with the following information.
Do you have a working computer in your church or home (most do not, but a cell phone works) 2) what is your cell phone number? 3) Do you have a translator of English available for the service time? 4) What day and time is best for you to have these sermons? 5) What is your time zone? 6) How many people would be listening? 7) Do you have a microphone speaker system that you can put the cell phone near to people can hear well? If interested, please respond!
From: John Ruotsala, “Your Foreign Mission Administrator”
Hello Fellow Christians! God’s Peace!
This is our second weekly communication! I was so happy to hear from so many of you this past week. Much has happened in our world since last week.
I would truly encourage you to look to Jesus, our Lord and Savior, for all your strength and comfort! Always look to Him, especially in times like these. Many of you may be hearing the news of how great turmoil the world is in. Even in the USA there are many great problems with our economy. This has many people in fear of how to pay their bills, and where their daily bread will come from. Please remember that our daily bread (all things) is supplied by the Lord. We often ask him for our Daily Bread in the Lord’s Prayer. In the Bible the promise is that He provides food for even the birds. He will surely provide us with food and shelter. Too often it seems there may not be enough food, good enough shelter, and often we want this or that that we do not have. This is because of the fall in the Garden of Eden by Adam and Eve. Sin entered into the world and continues to molest today. There is also much death and dying due to the fall. Two weeks ago, I lost a precious 3 year old great nephew to cancer. Last night we lost a young mother in our community to cancer. Death and dying is all around us due to the fall of man. Much other sadness and sin sickness has been in the world since the fall.
However, the Lord, through his infinite wisdom and love, has provided an escape from all of this! That Escape, that Healer, the Feeder, that Comforter, Physician, The Mighty One, the King of Kings, the Lord of Lords, is our Lord Jesus Christ! Through Him we overcome! He has already won the victory for us! The devil had been defeated! Let us lay hold of this by faith. Let us believe and continue to believe that all our sins are forgiven through the Name of Jesus and His precious cleansing blood! He has bought us back! He has redeemed us! He has made us whole! When we deserved nothing but punishment, he has loved us and died for us! Praise our Lord for this!
Believe Dear Christian Friend, that the victory is yours! The victory is for each one that lays hold by faith of all that Jesus has done! With Him we are the richest of the rich! Because of our Lord Jesus, we can look forward toward the day when will have all the Glories of Heaven forever, and be worshipping Him eternally! What a Day that will be when My Jesus I see in that Beautiful City of Gold!
It is so nice to know that so many around the world, in so many countries, have this same living Hope of Glory through Christ Jesus! So many looking to be in Heaven one Day! So many that Worship our Lord! It is such as joy that believers not only have this eternal joy and happiness to look forward to, but we have the right to Peace that passes all understanding while here on earth!. A joy unspeakable! Life in Christ Jesus is the best possible life one can have! No matter what comes, Christians are safe in the arms of Jesus! They can truly say, This is the Day that the Lord hath made, let us be glad and rejoice in it!
I truly get overjoyed just typing these words out to my Christian friends and to anyone that will listen.. It seems like I could just keep typing, but I promised to keep these short so I will stop.
May God Truly Bless Your day and week! Be Always Found in Christ Jesus our Lord! Love, John Ruotsala (Please see below also)
Business Section:
In responding to last weeks email, some of you have said that you would like to be able to listen to sermons preached by pastors in the USA via skype. In order to start setting this up, please provide me with the following information.
Do you have a working computer in your church or home (most do not, but a cell phone works) 2) what is your cell phone number? 3) Do you have a translator of English available for the service time? 4) What day and time is best for you to have these sermons? 5) What is your time zone? 6) How many people would be listening? 7) Do you have a microphone speaker system that you can put the cell phone near to people can hear well? If interested, please respond!
Friday, August 15, 2008
Communications
I recently returned from a wonderful trip to the West Coast. I spent time in Portland, Battle Ground and Hawkinson, and also at the Summer/Fall services in Nampa, Idaho. The entire trip was very blessed! Thanks to the Lord for the wonderful times of services and fellowship.
One thing that really stood out for me on this trip, is that we should communicate better one with another. I am excited to do my part as the administrator to facilitate this. It is real a testimony of the cloud of witnesses that we are able to see in situations like Tom Christopher's and Brigitta Hilman's passing. So much comfort and strength was given to these families via caring bridge. This same site is now being used to communicate with Aaron and Moreen Ruotsala about their precious son Cole. Let's share things one with another, and perhaps even this site can help us in some small way. God Bless you all! John
One thing that really stood out for me on this trip, is that we should communicate better one with another. I am excited to do my part as the administrator to facilitate this. It is real a testimony of the cloud of witnesses that we are able to see in situations like Tom Christopher's and Brigitta Hilman's passing. So much comfort and strength was given to these families via caring bridge. This same site is now being used to communicate with Aaron and Moreen Ruotsala about their precious son Cole. Let's share things one with another, and perhaps even this site can help us in some small way. God Bless you all! John
Wednesday, August 13, 2008
Mission Blogger
Hello and God's Peace be with you all!
As the Administrator of the Foreign Mission of the Apostolic Lutheran Church of America, I have started this blog in order to better communicate with all that have an interest in spreading the Gospel of Jesus Christ throughout the world. I will first spend some time setting up this page properly. If I can get it to the standards that I feel will work, I will endeavor to keep it fresh and updated at all times.
Thanks, John
As the Administrator of the Foreign Mission of the Apostolic Lutheran Church of America, I have started this blog in order to better communicate with all that have an interest in spreading the Gospel of Jesus Christ throughout the world. I will first spend some time setting up this page properly. If I can get it to the standards that I feel will work, I will endeavor to keep it fresh and updated at all times.
Thanks, John
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