en Love God, Love Others, Serve the World, Together! http://www.timberlineonline.org © Copyright 2000 - 2009Church Community Builder. All Rights Reserved. http://www.timberlineonline.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=1 http://www.timberlineonline.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=1&article_id=184 Click here to subscribe to podcasts of archived Timberline messages. Mon, 22 Dec 2008 11:39:19 MST http://www.timberlineonline.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=1 http://www.timberlineonline.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=1&article_id=182 To submit a prayer request to our pastors please click here. Mon, 22 Dec 2008 11:39:19 MST http://www.timberlineonline.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=1 http://www.timberlineonline.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=1&article_id=183 Mon, 22 Dec 2008 11:39:19 MST http://www.timberlineonline.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=1 http://www.timberlineonline.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=1&article_id=181 Uplifting Christian music and singing, live dramas and practical video moments are all a part of what makes our church a special place! Our pastors present basic biblical truths in a way that's relevant to today. Our services reflect our belief that attending church should be an enjoyable, uplifting and meaningful experience that encourages you to develop a closer relationship with Jesus Christ. Mon, 22 Dec 2008 11:39:19 MST http://www.timberlineonline.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=63 http://www.timberlineonline.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=63&article_id=170 Join us for a great time with other guys as we have some fun, get challenged in our walk with God and take a break from the busyness and demands of life. Some of the activities available are basketball, volleyball, carpetball, outdoor activities (weather permitting), swimming, hot tub, etc. We will also be having Rich Newkirk join us this year as our guest speaker. This will be a time just for the guys to be guys. Plan to join us! When: Friday, February 27 - Saturday, February 28 (Registration from 5:00 - 5:30 pm on Friday. Dinner is at 5:30. Activities will conclude at 3:00 pm on Saturday.) Where: Hidden Acres Who: All men (ages 16 and up) Cost: $60/man (includes lodging and meals) (Scholarships are available - Please contact Pastor Gary) Register online here. Downloadable Registration Form -(Word format) Downloadable Registration Form (PDF format) Registration deadline is Sunday, Feb. 15. Back to Men's Ministry Wed, 17 Dec 2008 08:55:29 MST http://www.timberlineonline.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=68 http://www.timberlineonline.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=68&article_id=179 2008 Small Group Leader's Retreat and Training Event When: Friday, Jan. 9 (check in from 4-6 pm, dinner at 5:30 pm) through 3:30 pm on Saturday, Jan. 12 Where: Hidden Acres, Dayton, IA (approx. 45 minutes from DSM) What: We invite all small group leaders and their spouses to join us for training, encouragement, fun, fellowship and great food. Two ways to register: Online registration, or Downloadable registration (Word format) Registration deadline is Wednesday, December 31 Sat, 6 Dec 2008 22:08:44 MST http://www.timberlineonline.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=22 http://www.timberlineonline.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=22&article_id=119 A test-drive small group is a people and place, but really it is an opportunity to connect and make friends and grow in our knowledge of God together. Formed and together for period of time, it is our desire to have numerous test-drive small groups available as "next steps" in getting connected at Timberline. Timberline test-drive small groups include: Newcomer Orientation: A Walk Through the Timbers Table Groups Pie with the Pastors Gospel Class (Timberline 101) Financial Peace University Men's Ministry Women's Ministry PraiseMoves Back to Love Others Sat, 6 Dec 2008 09:50:41 MST http://www.timberlineonline.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=56 http://www.timberlineonline.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=56&article_id=158 In our short one and a half hour time, we promise: 1) You will meet new people 2) You will learn of the mission, vision and values of Timberline Church, and 3) You will know what next steps to take at TimberlineThe next Walk Through the Timbers is scheduled for:Sunday, January 25Noon - 1:30 pmLocation TBD Back to Test Drive Small Groups Sat, 6 Dec 2008 09:25:52 MST http://www.timberlineonline.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=64 http://www.timberlineonline.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=64&article_id=176 Looking to be a part of a women's bible study? When: Starting January 7th (1st and 3rd Wednesdays) Time: 9:30-11am. Study: TBA Location: TBA If you are interested or if you have any questions please contact Brenda Van Heukelom. Back to Women's Ministry Tue, 2 Dec 2008 13:18:47 MST http://www.timberlineonline.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=24 http://www.timberlineonline.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=24&article_id=86 Please complete the Timberline Women Survey. Women's Ministry Links: Ladies Craft Night Women's Bible Study Back to Test Drive Small Groups Sat, 29 Nov 2008 11:16:56 MST http://www.timberlineonline.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=23 http://www.timberlineonline.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=23&article_id=81 Timberline's men's ministry is here to equip, train and mature all men to 'love God, love others and to serve the world, together (Matt. 22:37-40 and Matt. 28:19-20)Men's Ministry Links:Men's FraternityGiant SlayersMen's Retreat Back to Test Drive Small Groups Sat, 29 Nov 2008 11:08:33 MST http://www.timberlineonline.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=62 http://www.timberlineonline.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=62&article_id=169 The Pastoral Team wants to help prayerfully and financially support, from our missions budget, both individuals and groups that God may be calling to short term local or international missions trips/small group outreach events. For your convenience both online and downloadable forms are available for you to complete to request financial support for an upcoming local or international mission trip. Please click on the correct link below: Online LOCAL mission support applicationOnline INTERNATIONAL mission support applicationDownloadable local/international mission support application Back to Serve the World Tue, 25 Nov 2008 11:34:55 MST http://www.timberlineonline.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=43 http://www.timberlineonline.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=43&article_id=90 Mission Support Alaska 2008 Brazil 2008 Venezuela 2008 Tue, 25 Nov 2008 11:33:49 MST http://www.timberlineonline.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=1 http://www.timberlineonline.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=1&article_id=168 Click here to complete this quick survey! Tue, 25 Nov 2008 09:59:01 MST http://www.timberlineonline.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=37 http://www.timberlineonline.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=37&article_id=164 The next Men's Fraternity curriculum and dates will be announced soon. Fri, 31 Oct 2008 09:16:42 MST http://www.timberlineonline.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=57 http://www.timberlineonline.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=57&article_id=161 Table groups are individuals and couples who agree to get together for one dinner per month for four months. We look forward to our next series of table groups starting in January/February 2009. These table small groups are a great way to meet other people and build friendships. They are hosted by table host small group leaders who coordinate the get-together dates and provide the host location. You can register for a Table Group by clicking here. Back to Test Drive Small Groups Fri, 31 Oct 2008 09:10:36 MST http://www.timberlineonline.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=29 http://www.timberlineonline.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=29&article_id=40 Gospel Classes #1, #2 and #3 will be held in the Upper Room (suite 210 at 6600 Westown Parkway, West Des Moines) from 3:30 to 5:00 pm. Pre-registration is required for all Gospel Classes. The dates are as follows: Gospel Class #1 - Sunday, October 12 Gospel Class #2 - Sunday, November 2 Gospel Class #3 - Sunday, November 23 Before the Gospel Classes... 1) Register for the class(es) you will be attending by clicking on the specific class(es) above. 2) Please pick up your copy of "Welcome to the Family" at the welcome table in the front foyer starting Sunday, Oct. 5 3) Complete the pre-class reading and assignment (you will receive this via email as your registration confirmation) Gospel Class #1 - Can There be Only One God and One Bible? What We Believe: About the Bible, God and Christ Gospel Class #2 - Where Did We Come From? What we Believe About: The Holy Spirit, Man, Sin and Salvation Gospel Class #3 - What is God's Design and How do we Live with the End in Mind? What we Believe About: The Church and Prophecy Back to Test Drive Small Groups Fri, 3 Oct 2008 08:51:05 MST http://www.timberlineonline.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=47 http://www.timberlineonline.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=47&article_id=117 We are primarily a group of singles and married couples. All ages and walks of life are welcome. We meet in our homes and rotate our meeting place to different homes each week. Please contact Nathan Payne for more information. Back to Love Others Thu, 14 Aug 2008 14:29:56 MST http://www.timberlineonline.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=21 http://www.timberlineonline.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=21&article_id=24 Small Groups: A place you can make friends and grow in your walk with God. At Timberline Church we have available a variety of ways you can meet others.'Test-Drive' Groups: A people and place, but really it is an opportunity to connect and make friends and grow in our knowledge of God together. Formed and together for period of time, it is our desire to have numerous test-drive small groups available as "next steps" in getting connected at Timberline. Community Small Groups: We have individual/couples groups that meet in various neighborhoods throughout the Des Moines area. These groups range from 'table groups,' where once or twice a month neighbors meet to share a meal together, to groups that get together more often for a meal and a time of prayer and in-depth Bible study.We would love to help get you connected ! CLICK HERE! Thu, 14 Aug 2008 14:26:44 MST http://www.timberlineonline.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=49 http://www.timberlineonline.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=49&article_id=160 "Jesus replied: 'Love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all you mind. This is the first and greatest commandment.'" We believe at Timberline we are called to do this by preaching/teaching the Word of God in its entirety, and by demonstrating our love for God in prayer. Thu, 31 Jul 2008 21:30:02 MST http://www.timberlineonline.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=3 http://www.timberlineonline.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=3&article_id=3 1. We believe the Scriptures, both Old and New Testaments, to be the inspired Word of God, without error in the original writings, the complete revelation of His will for the salvation of man, and the divine and final authority for all Christian faith and life.2. We believe in one God, Creator of all things infinitely perfect and eternally existing in three persons: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.3. We believe that Jesus Christ is true God and true man, having been conceived of the Holy Spirit and born of the Virgin Mary. He died on the cross a sacrifice for our sins according to the Scriptures. Further, He arose bodily from the dead, ascended into heaven where, at the right hand of the Majesty on High, He now is our High Priest and Advocate.4. We believe that the ministry of the Holy Spirit is to glorify the Lord Jesus Christ, and during this age to convict men, regenerate the believing sinner, and to indwell, guide, instruct and empower the believer for godly living and service.5. We believe that man was created in the image of God, but fell into sin, and is therefore lost, and only through regeneration by the Holy Spirit can salvation and spiritual life be obtained.6. We believe that the shed blood of Jesus Christ and His resurrection provide the only ground for justification and salvation for all who believe, and only such as receive Jesus are born of the Holy Spirit and thus become children of God.7. We believe that water baptism and the Lord's Supper are ordinances to be observed by the church during this present age. They are; however, not to be regarded as means of salvation.8. We believe that the true Church is composed of all such persons who, through saving faith in Jesus Christ have been regenerated by the Holy Spirit and are united together in the Body of Christ, of which He is the Head.9. We believe that only those who are thus members of the true Christ shall be eligible for membership in the local church.10. We believe that Jesus Christ is the Lord and Head of the Church, and that every local church has the right, under Christ, to decide and govern its own affairs.11. We believe in the personal and pre-millennial and imminent coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, and that this Blessed Hope has a vital bearing on the personal life and service of the believer.12. We believe in the bodily resurrection of the dead; of the believer to everlasting blessedness and joy with the Lord, and of the unbeliever to judgment and everlasting conscious punishment. Thu, 31 Jul 2008 20:57:22 MST http://www.timberlineonline.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=37 http://www.timberlineonline.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=37&article_id=157 Thu, 31 Jul 2008 18:05:41 MST http://www.timberlineonline.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=55 http://www.timberlineonline.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=55&article_id=156 Hi from Alaska, Well, my trip is about over. We have a day and a half of work before we head to Juneau Friday after lunch to start the trip back to Iowa. The last couple days have been good ones, The weather broke on Monday afternoon and were were able to finish the flat part of the roof in very light drizzle. Tuesday the sun came out and we worked all day in the sunshine. That was a blessing. The sun helped everyone's spirits, campers, staff and volunteers. We were able to attend a chapel service Monday night and will go back again tonight. The speaker does a good job keeping the attention of the younger kids. This is probably my last update from Echo Ranch. Thanks again for all your prayers and support. I'll see you back in Iowa this weekend. (we arrive in Des Moines about noon on Saturday. Steve Thu, 31 Jul 2008 08:26:10 MST http://www.timberlineonline.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=55 http://www.timberlineonline.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=55&article_id=155 Hi Everyone, Today is the start of a new week and a new camp here at ERBC. Today over 40 ten and eleven year olds arrive in camp for the week. The speaker came in last Wednesday to save airfare so we have gotten to know him a little. He combines illustrations and drawings with his presentation of the Gospel. It should be another good week. The weather has not changed. We worked all day Friday in the rain starting the the layout and sod removal for a new miniature golf course. We got the sod removed on 10 of the holes. We were able to work about 4 hours Saturday morning on the roof but still need another day and a half of dry weather to complete the project. Today appears to be another wet and cool day so the roof may have to wait until later in the week. Mike and 3 of the men from VEFC left early Sunday morning and if the planes were on time should be back in Des Moines. It was great to have Mike on the trip! Please pray for the new camp and campers that are arriving today. Also, pray for the health of the counselors and staff. There are several with colds etc. (including me -cold). I've attached a picture of the full group (without John Glad) in from of the the portion of the roof that if completed on the ranch house. Steve Thu, 31 Jul 2008 08:24:34 MST http://www.timberlineonline.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=55 http://www.timberlineonline.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=55&article_id=154 Good Morning, I'm just sending a quick note before breakfast today. The weather has continued to be cool and rainy. Yesterday we had hoped that the rest of the roofing would arrive from Juneau but it now looks like it will be this afternoon. It rained all day Thursday so we couldn't have been on the metal roof anyway. Instead, Mike and 3 others worked on plans to build a new miniature golf course here at the camp. The holes have been sketched out and laid out on the map. Concrete and treated lumber will be ordered soon. We may start digging up sod today. (You can do that in the rain.) I finished a plumbing project and we built shelves and benches for the work team cabins and bath house. You can pray for 8 hours of no rain after the steel roofing gets here. That should be all the time we need to complete most of the roof. Also, there is a cold bug going around and a couple of us have come down with sore throats. The 2 additional men from VEFC arrive today and about noon on Saturday we take the first team into Juneau to get ready to head back to Iowa early Sunday morning. It's hard to believe the week is almost over. Senior High camp is going well. Tonight is their big banquet and the final chapel services are Saturday. Pray for the campers and counselors. They have all had long days and short nights but they are hearing the Word. Mike and Steve Fri, 25 Jul 2008 10:14:31 MST http://www.timberlineonline.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=55 http://www.timberlineonline.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=55&article_id=153 Good Morning from Alaska, I just have a couple minutes but wanted to get a short update back to you all. The last couple days have been productive. We've had mostly dry weather (the drizzle has been very light and lasts only 1/2 hour or so) so we've been able to stay working on the roof. The Ranch House is an L shaped building 60' long and the bottom of the L is 30'. Most of the long part the L is finished and one side of the bottom. We have 19 sheets of roofing left and need about 60 total so we will have to switch project later this morning until the rest of the roofing comes out from Juneau. Supplies are frequently a challenge here so the prayer request for today is that the coil of roofing material arrived as scheduled on Tuesday on a barge and that the 40 sheets we need will actually be made today so it can be picked up and brought out to camp. Everyone is doing fine and we are thankful that there have been not significant injuries. Senior High camp is entering it's 3rd day and seems to be going fine. One counselor dislocated her shoulder during a game and had to be taken into Juneau for x-rays etc. She may need more tests once the bruising and swelling go down. You can pray for Skylar if you think about it. I know she is having quite a bit of pain with the shoulder. The first member of the team leaves today. John Glad from VEFC had to get back so he could leave for a family trip Friday. Two new VEFC members arrive in Juneau at midnight Thursday and will come out to camp on Friday morning. We all go back into Juneau Saturday afternoon for sightseeing and a float plane flight to Taku Lodge for a salmon bake. Then early Sunday morning Mike heads home with 4 of the VEFC men. I'll be home mid-day on Saturday the August 2nd. (It is hard to keep track of the schedule, especially this year.) Every trip into Juneau has to be coordinated with the logistics person here to be sure a vehicle is available and the timing has to be worked around the tide schedule. It makes life interesting. More later and maybe another picture. Thanks for your prayers. Mike and Steve Fri, 25 Jul 2008 06:56:33 MST http://www.timberlineonline.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=55 http://www.timberlineonline.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=55&article_id=152 Fri, 25 Jul 2008 06:52:38 MST http://www.timberlineonline.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=55 http://www.timberlineonline.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=55&article_id=151 Monday 6:30 Alaska time - I tried to send this 3 times last night and the system would crash each time I hit send. I'm going to send the message first this morning and then try and send a couple pictures. By the way, we have our first praise of the day. IT'S NOT RAINING this morning anyway so we should be back working on the roof. From Sunday night - We were finally able to start working the ranch house roof about noon on Saturday. The rain stopped and the sun came out. We worked to about 9:00 and got the old aluminum roofing off, new felt stapled down and the first 10 sheets of steel roofing put down. Hopefully it will be dry again tomorrow and we can make more progess. Things go pretty quickly when we can work. Today we had church with the staff. After lunch 5 of the group tried there hand at salmon fishing off the beach in front of the camp. Mike tried but hadn't had any luck last I know (they are still fishing). John Glad and Brian both caught a couple. We also were able to go out and help pull the camp's crab pots. We caught 24 dungeness crabs that were cooked for dinner tonight. The senior high camp starts Monday morning with the campers arriving about 11:00. Last count, there were 90 campers coming. That is twice as many as they had in 2007. Praise God! Pray for the counselors and staff. This is both and big blessing and challenge.? Also pray for good weather or at least no rain. It is difficult to keep 8 guys busy with small jobs and now that the roof has been torn off we need a couple days of good weather to replace the steel roofing. Thanks again for praying for us. Mike and Steve Fri, 25 Jul 2008 06:49:55 MST http://www.timberlineonline.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=55 http://www.timberlineonline.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=55&article_id=149 We arrived on time about midnight Thursday and spend a short night at the Camp's in-town office which has a 2 bedroom dorm. Friday we took a one hour detour to go by the Mendenhall Glacier before heading out the the camp. It has been unusually cold here this summer and yesterday was no exception. It has also rained nonstop since we got off the plane which has made working on replacing to ranch house roof impossible. The rain is lighter this morning so maybe we'll get started on the roof today. We kept busy with other smaller jobs yesterday and will figure out what we're going to do today at breakfast in a couple hours. 3 of us restocked firewood in the cabins, 2 painted shields that are going to be used to decorate a castle that is used for some of the camp programing this year and 2 worked on a drawbridge for the castle. There are 85 junior high campers here this week. Since work was slow we had a chance to attend their chapel service last night. That was a good reminder about why we are here anyway. The program director (John Michael) is the speaker this week and he does an excellent job connecting with the kids but also sharing with them the Gospel. They have one more service today and they leave this afternoon. Monday morning about 55 senior high kids are coming in so it will be another good week. Please continue to pray for the camp and kids. Also pray that we would be patient and maintain serving attitudes while we wait for the rain to stop. Thanks for your prayers and support. I'll try and send a picture or two if I can figure that out and we have some better work pictures to send. Steve and Mike Sat, 19 Jul 2008 10:36:30 MST http://www.timberlineonline.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=54 http://www.timberlineonline.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=54&article_id=148 1. Parkview E Free Church, Iowa City - blogspot to see photos and get updates. The EFCA TouchGlobal Crisis Response team is helping with the recovery efforts as well. As updates come in for this we will post them here. Workdates are currently scheduled for Saturdays through July to help both at the church and local residents affected by the flood. 2. United Way Volunteer Solutions- there are new listings posted regularly of flood recovery help requests. 3. The Red Cross has other volunteer opportunities - some/many of the volunteer opportunities may require training prior to service. 4. Habitat for Humanity - The Greater Des Moines Habitat for Humanity operations center and ReStore has been affected by the flooding and they need an additional 8 -10 adult volunteers to help clean and repair their headquarters at 2341 2nd Ave. Please contact Amber Duimstra, volunteer manager (aduimstra@gdmhabitat.org or 515.778.6708), if you can help. Sun, 6 Jul 2008 21:15:44 MST http://www.timberlineonline.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=47 http://www.timberlineonline.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=47&article_id=121 This group meets in the Urbandale area on Holcomb Ave. west of Westover Blvd. between Hickman Ave. and Urbandale Ave. Please contact Don Bittinger for more information. Thu, 3 Jul 2008 10:26:11 MST http://www.timberlineonline.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=47 http://www.timberlineonline.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=47&article_id=122 This small group meets in homes made up primarily of people who live in the Grimes Crossing neighborhood. For more information please contact Monte Miller. Thu, 3 Jul 2008 10:26:11 MST http://www.timberlineonline.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=47 http://www.timberlineonline.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=47&article_id=114 L- LivingI - InF - FellowshipE - Eternally This group is actually several small groups that meet together for dinner and Bible study on Wednesday nights from 6-8. Ages range from 13 to 50+. Contact Matthew Madison for more information. Thu, 3 Jul 2008 10:26:11 MST http://www.timberlineonline.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=47 http://www.timberlineonline.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=47&article_id=113 This group rotates meeting in homes on Saturday nights for dinner, fellowship and a book study. Please contact Gary Bock for more information. Thu, 3 Jul 2008 10:26:11 MST http://www.timberlineonline.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=47 http://www.timberlineonline.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=47&article_id=116 A group of 40's and 50's couples and singles. They meet every other Saturday. Contact Tim Hall for more information. Thu, 3 Jul 2008 10:26:11 MST http://www.timberlineonline.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=47 http://www.timberlineonline.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=47&article_id=115 This group meets every Monday night in and around the Polk City area. Contact Jason Sturm for more information. Thu, 3 Jul 2008 10:26:11 MST http://www.timberlineonline.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=41 http://www.timberlineonline.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=41&article_id=85 Ladies - you're invited to take an evening off and catch up on your unfinished projects at the home of Galadriel Miller each Wednesday night. Bring whatever you would like to work on, a snack and a drink if you'd like, and come fellowship together! Ideas of what to bring/do include: scrapbookingsewingknittingcross-stitchingmenu/meal planningstampingmaking your grocery list! Wednesdays: 7 - 10 pm 804 Woodbine Drive in Grimes Contact Galadriel for directions. See you there! Back to Women's Ministry Thu, 3 Jul 2008 10:26:11 MST http://www.timberlineonline.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=30 http://www.timberlineonline.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=30&article_id=50 Back to Serve the World Brothers & Sisters, Thank-you all for your prayers. We arrived safely with all our suitcases late Saturday night. All three of us stayed with the Custodio family and had a wonderful breakfast together before church this morning. At the service I gave a message on "Stewardship of Resources". If you log in to the website you can find a copy of this message under the all church group. Based on the conversations that the message spawned over lunch I would say the Spirit of God is at work through what was shared. I would like to ask you to pray for my translator. I met her for the first time about 20 minutes before I was to give the sermon. Her name is Lisa and I would ask that you pray for her translations of all of our workshops this week. Many of the brothers and sisters in the church who speak some English said that she did a very good job. Pray that nothing would cause her to have to miss one of our meetings. Pray also for discernment for me as I try to access where she is spiritually. After lunch today Ryan and Britney had a jam session with some of the youth of the chruch. Ryan played some of the songs that he has written on the guitar and he was joined by an electric guitar, bass guitar and drums. Ryan said, "I have never met so many people with this level of natural rythym in my life. They played for quite awhile and this was an excellent beginning for the relationships that he and Britney will build while we are here. Tonight I met with the men´s group that included 17 older and younger men. I was good to see several generations meeting together. We looked at Genesis chapter 3 and 41 and compared the passivity of Adam and the action of Joseph. We then had a discussion about how to over come our passivity and lead our homes spiritually. I also shared our men´s definition of manhood from Men´s Fraterity: Men of God are R.E.A.L.-- Reject Passivity Expect a greater reward, God´s reward Accept Responsibility Lead Courageously All in all thanks to your prayers today was a great start to our mission. Pray for what was taught today to sink in and be applied. Pray also for many marriage counseling opportunities that I will have while I am here. Pray that the youth will continue to make themselves available to meet with Ryan and Britney so the stories God is writing through their lives will change live here. Finally, Ryan went to his host family tonight and the first night is usually the most difficult. Pray for a quick adjustment to his new surroundings. Thanks to you we are being a blessing in Puerto Cabello! Love Ya, Pastor Steve Sat, 14 Jun 2008 14:19:34 MST http://www.timberlineonline.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=44 http://www.timberlineonline.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=44&article_id=124 Back to Serve the World Sat, 14 Jun 2008 14:18:00 MST http://www.timberlineonline.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=44 http://www.timberlineonline.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=44&article_id=145 Mission Incomplete... The six of us, along with our luggage, are crammed into a gray Renault, which is a cross between a sub-compact, mini-van, and SUV. My thoughts run rampant as we travel the last leg down the semi-bumpy highway to the airport. The highway is actually pretty decent considering some of the roads we have traveled during our stay in Rio. I don't think I'll ever complain again about the pot-holes in Iowa. My mind drifts in and out on thoughts of the past week as the sporadically dotted lights of the passing flavellas fly by the window. One thought that comes to mind is what people asked me prior to leaving for Brasil. "What are you going to be building?" People would ask. I would simply reply that we weren't going on a construction mission, but that we would be helping to build God's kingdom. I would get puzzled looks in return, and that would open the door for me to explain how we were going to help people write their testimonies, mark Bibles using the Roman's Road, and applying those techniques by hitting the streets and evangelizing. Even though I had thoughts of being scared to death to share my faith with others, I was comfortable and confident as I shared the scriptures with people who asked about the mission to Brasil. During the week I recall seeing first hand the spiritual battles that take place each day. The first one was within twenty-four hours of our arrival. We were celebrating a big win for God's kingdom as we drove back to Pastor Moises' house, when out of no where a scooter smashed into the side of the Droogsma's Honda Civic. Satan obviously was not happy with the good that had been done through Don and Octavio earlier that day. Thankfully God saw to it that the damage was somewhat minor and that no one was seriously injured. I believe that was the point that I really had my eyes opened to the battles that were constantly going on between good and evil. I felt God's protection the rest of the week as we continued to do His work, building His kingdom. One of the biggest impacts I believe this mission had for not only the people of Rio, but for the mission team itself, was the two days spent with the church, Rio dos Pedros. Rio dos Pedros is located in a flavella (slum) that has no comparison to anything I have seen in Des Moines. These people live very simple yet complicated lives. They have no want as they appeared to be content and grateful for what they had. As cold as the place looked it had warmth that beamed from the smiles and hugs of both the adults and doubly from the smiling children. The moment I will always remember is when Pastor Sergio asked the children what the greatest gift is, and all 197 children raised their newly received Bibles, some still in the golden gift wrap. Here were people that had nothing, but had a newly wrapped Bible and the hope of an everlasting life with God. The Renault came to a stop along the curbside outside the entrance to the airport ticketing lobby. I remember not wanting to get out of the vehicle, not wanting the trip to come to an end. There was so much more to do, so many more to reach. I had an overwhelming feeling that the mission was incomplete. Jeff and Diane assured me that more mission teams were coming and that I along with our team were needed back home. As I walked down the breezeway to board the plane, every bit of me wanted to turn around and continue the mission there in Rio, but God had other plans. He wants us, you and me, to continue the mission here at home. God will train, equip, and even provide opportunities to share our faith with others. You don't need to go on an international mission trip to share your faith. Your mission is where you are, your neighborhood, your workplace, and your circle of influence. Your mission, should you decide to accept it, is to reach out to those around you and share your faith. God's message will not self destruct, but will change lives. Equip yourselves and go build God's kingdom. Thu, 22 May 2008 09:28:58 MST http://www.timberlineonline.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=28 http://www.timberlineonline.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=28&article_id=39 Dave Ramsey's Financial Peace University (FPU) is a biblically based, video-driven small group study that teaches families to beat debt, build wealth and give like never before! This program is for YOU if...Your credit cards ARE your emergency fund. Your dog responds to the name "EBay". You have to sell your house to put your kids through college. You're intrigued by the word "plasectomy." You want to know what God says about money. Stocks, Bonds, and Mutual Funds are friends you haven't met yet.Fall PreviewWhen: Sunday, Aug 17, 2008 Time: 5:45 pmWhere: The Upper Room (Suite 210), Regency Building (6600 Westown Pkwy, WDM)New Class BeginsSunday, September 14, 2008 and will run for 13 weeks (no class on Sunday, November 30, 2008)Click here to register for Financial Peace University. Back to Test Drive Small Groups Fri, 16 May 2008 15:12:06 MST http://www.timberlineonline.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=44 http://www.timberlineonline.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=44&article_id=133 The team arrived home safely today. Thank you to each of you who have faithfully sent us and prayed for us. Please continue to pray for those seeds we planted before, during and after our trip. Please pray for those who received one of the 355 Bibles that we had the opportunity to give away. Also please pray for the over 140 leaders who were trained in how to share their testimony and the Gospel message. Plan to join us Sunday, May 18th for our Sunday morning service when we will share about some of what we saw the Lord do in our midst. The mission has only really just begun... Serving the world together with you, The Brazil team Tue, 13 May 2008 15:19:38 MST http://www.timberlineonline.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=44 http://www.timberlineonline.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=44&article_id=131 Today we had another new experience. We went to teach and encourage another church in another city (part of Rio). It is in the city of Frigiesia. This church used to have support from a church in the United States but had separated themselves from that particular denomination when it began to take more liberal views on some theology. This was truly a blessing to come alongside this church. It was like we were already part of their church family. What a wonderful reception they had for each of us. The ministry in the favella that we served on Thurs/Fri was an inner city ministry that they introduced us to. We served with them in this favella (slum). What a wonderful experience serving our Lord together in this way. Saturday we met with Pastor Andre and his family at their home with some friends who wanted to try out their English language on us. After lunch Saturday we proceeded to the church to do crafts and then to do some evangelism training and Romans road teaching. Jolene gave her testimony there which really touched many of the ladies. They had about 25 ladies for this craft time. We also had approx 80 people in attendance for the evangelism and Romans road training. We also had a few non Christian who heard the Gospel shared. They asked some amazing questions. What an opportunity to share the Good News! After our training we participated in their Saturday night youth service. The team even got up front and participated in leading worship. At this service Mike Miller gave his salvation testimony and his call to go to Brasil. It was a powerful day all the way through. Over this entire mission trip and through your faithful giving we have been able to give away over 355 Bibles in this community. Please pray that all 355 Bibles are used to bring God glory as people read them and either receive Christ as their Lord and Savior and then become challenged in their walk to go and share the Good News with others. Thu, 8 May 2008 10:41:14 MST http://www.timberlineonline.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=44 http://www.timberlineonline.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=44&article_id=141 After our training Wednesday night this gal named Elemar waiting to talk with Pastor Gary. She began to share (through a translator) that last year she heard Pastor Gary's salvation and ministry testimony in Niteroi. She said, "I cried for a week afterwards." She and her husband were feeling God's call in their lives to go into vocational ministry and they, like Pastor Gary, was "negotiating" with God before they said yes to following the Lord's leading. Elemar shared that after she heard Pastor Gary's testimony last year they answered God's call to "go" and they moved to Campo Grande so that her husband could start pastoring in this church plant. She said, "Thanks for coming last year, I am a life that has been changed and used for God. We are so happy we followed the Lord's leading. Thanks for sharing from your heart...God really used you." We never know how the Lord will use us as we follow the Lord's leading to go. Thanks for sending us! Thu, 8 May 2008 10:39:23 MST http://www.timberlineonline.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=44 http://www.timberlineonline.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=44&article_id=137 A moving photo of 197 children holding their gift of a Bible over their heads as Pastor Sergio shares with them about Jesus and how He is the Greatest Gift ever. Please notice that some of the kids couldn't even open their gift because it was soooo special to them. Receiving a gift (especially a wrapped gift) in this community is a very rare occasion. Please pray for each of these children and their families as they now have the Word of God in their homes. Thu, 8 May 2008 10:39:05 MST http://www.timberlineonline.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=44 http://www.timberlineonline.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=44&article_id=138 We like to call this Jolene and her flock of 80. This was one of our four "small groups" that we broke into with the 197 children that came for English teaching, crafts and most of all the Greatest Gift Ever. There was only 1 bathroom in this church...and it was all the way in the back of Jolene's room. Jolene has about 80 children ages 5-6 that she had the priviledge of leading. Way to go Jolene! Thu, 8 May 2008 10:39:05 MST http://www.timberlineonline.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=44 http://www.timberlineonline.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=44&article_id=130 Sorry for the delay in updating our website. As a team we have been extremely busy. We went back to Rio dos Pedros (River of Rocks) to the church in the favella (slum) that we were at Thursday evening. We spent a wonderful time of worship, English teaching, fellowship and training together. We had about 60 adults in attendance. We did our Romans Road teaching with them. We gave each of them a Bible to either keep for themselves (most will because they do not have their own) and if they do have a Bible they were encouraged to give it to someone else and then to walk others through the Gospel message they learned. We finished the evening with an American treat...brownies. When we get back to the States we will load some photos for you to see the kind of poverty these people live in. Unfortunately we couldn't take any photos outside of the church due to safety concerns but we believe the photos will speak for themselves. Thu, 8 May 2008 10:39:05 MST http://www.timberlineonline.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=44 http://www.timberlineonline.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=44&article_id=132 After getting home late again last night (I don't think any of us have gotten to bed much before midnight or 1:00 AM any of these nights) we went back to this church to give our testimonies in the youth Sunday schools. Don, Mike and Jolene (and Jeff and Diane Droogsma too) gave their testimonies during this time. Each of them touched many lives. So much so that during the worship service that followed the worship leader shared about how the Lord spoke to her through Don's testimony. Pastor Gary had the opportunity to share a message dear to his heart. A message that was planned to be given until overnight Saturday night. He really felt led to not give the message that he had prepared but instead to share from Mark 1:17 "Come follow me, Jesus said, and I will make you fishers of men." This was one of the verses God used to call Gary out of the marketplace and into full time ministry. He shared from his heart about his faith journey and the challenges along the way and then finally about how God made it obvious to leave it all behind and to follow God's call for his life. It was finished with a call to write down on small pieces of black construction paper what may be holding them back from serving our Lord fully and then to bring it to the front and place it and the foot of the cross. It was a powerful time. There probably wasn't a dry eye in the church. At this point the team has pretty much said most of its goodbyes and are preparing their luggage for our overnight flight home. This has been a busy and powerful mission trip. We all really look forward to seeing our families when we get home. We all miss them very much. Please pray for our travel (vehicles/plane rides) home. We look forward to sharing our photos and stories of life change with you. In Him and for Him, The team Thu, 8 May 2008 10:39:05 MST http://www.timberlineonline.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=44 http://www.timberlineonline.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=44&article_id=129 After spending last night (Wed) up until about 1:45 AM (Thurs morning) finishing preparing all the final details of our outreach opportunities for Thursday and beyond we got rolling this morning. We ended up with a few last minute surprises this morning before we left for Rio das Pedras where we were to do the following: Drama, Worship leading, English teaching, a message, crafts and much more. Thankfully everything worked out and we were on our way. This community is a very poverty stricken area of the Rio de Janeiro area. We had been told of recent to move our preparation (crafts and everything) from an anticipated attendance of maybe 100 to now a possible attendance of 150 children. Wow, did we get surprised. With the faithful giving of all our supporters we were able to have a little bit of 'special emergency ministry money' available which we were very glad that we had today because not only did we have the 100 children between the ages of 5 - 15, not even the 150 that we had been advised to prepare for, instead God brought 197 children to this event! This very small church in a poverty stricken village had 197 children attend our three+ hour event. We praise God for your faithfulness to send and support us both in prayer and financial assistance. We were able to tell the true story of the "Greatest Gift Ever" (Jesus Christ) and how we can celebrate His birthday everyday of the year. We were able to give 197 Bibles in Portuguese away to every child that attended. Many of the kids came up and gave us Big hugs! They also told us they couldn't wait to get home to read their Bibles and to have their friends read it with them. The Pastor of this little church was also choked up when he saw the Word of God that these children could now have to go learn more about Jesus with. And that they could come back to church actually carrying their Bible with them to learn from it. It was a moving picture of 197 children holding their gift wrapped Bibles over their heads in celebration of Jesus. As a team we have been thinking about the amount of lives that have been touched thus far on this trip directly by each of us. We thought we'd share these numbers with you. Sat-Sun = 40+ leadership training 100+ worship service Mon-Wed = 30 + youth and adults Thurs = 197 children ages 5-15 and many adults Total this far: Nearly 370 people have heard and/or been equipped with the Good News and how to go share it. And each of been connected to a local church for further opportunity for discipleship! And God still has some amazing plans, we believe, for Fri-Sun before we return. Through your faithfulness to send us we have been able to equip over 60+ youth/adults leaders in the church with their testimonies and how to share the salvation message. We've been able to distribute nearly 240 Bibles into this city for Christ! Thank you for faithfully sending us and for your continued prayers for the people we are to minister to, for safety, health and much more. Please continue to pray as we go back to this same village tomorrow (Friday) to give away more Bibles and to tell the Good News to many adults. Our event tomorrow is focused on teaching English and giving away Bibles along with walking them through the Romans Road primarily with the parents of the children we had at our outreach tonight. God is so good! Serving our Lord together with you, Pastor Gary (on behalf of the team) Thu, 8 May 2008 10:39:05 MST http://www.timberlineonline.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=44 http://www.timberlineonline.org/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=44&article_id=140 Don shares the message Sunday evening Thu, 8 May 2008 10:25:15 MST