eNewsletter » December 2008

Dear Brethren,

As Christmas does draw near, we are reminded again and again of all that we have in Christ Jesus. The world celebrates the babe in Bethlehem; we know the Risen Christ, the Lord of Glory! We are so extraordinarily thankful for all that He has done in and through us at Gospel Furthering Fellowship.

The key word in the book of Hebrews is “better.”  Christ Jesus is better than all who came before; He is God Incarnate!  What more could God the Father has given?  He gave His Son for us, the just for the unjust, that we might be saved from our sin.  That really is an ‘unspeakable gift.’ Yet this gift was manifested in our time, for us.  That is why we are ‘in business,’ and why we thank the Lord (and YOU) for every work and word which leads to the salvation of sinners – like US.

We are particularly thankful for the new families that have come our way this year: Nathan and Karen Frizzel (and their four children; actually approved in 2007, but they did not start prefield ministry until this year), Charlie and Bo Frink (three children), and Aaron and Nicole Shipe (five children at present, the sixth due in early 2009).  These are wonderful families and representing specific answers to prayer.  We could mention other blessings (those about ready to leave for their fields, such as the Stevenson family), but we will ‘save’ them for a later date.

2009 promises to be special.  We trust the Lord for His continued provision, not unmindful of the problems some may face due to American economic difficulties.  The good news is that the Lord is there for every season and time; His mercies fail not.  Our Office had no clue that times were going to be hard in America when we [deliberately] reduced our operating revenue (by cutting the missionary’s contribution to the Office).

While the budget is very, very tight at times, we thank the Lord that we are managing.  We go on, trusting the LORD for HIS provision in every economic circumstance.  He has been faithful, and will remain so; He is not surprised by our problems.  We look forward to the future with confidence, because of our unlimited confidence in the Almighty. We do give thanks for His unspeakable gift, and wonder ‘how long’ it will be until we see Him come in Glory!

Praising the Lord,

Bruce P. Busch
General Director