Coffeegirl's Community

Seated with Him

2012-01-30T00:00:00.005-07:00

STORY BEHIND THE PHOTO: Picture Praise, 1/30/12

This is the smoking section of a restaurant in Tubingen, Germany...note the individual blankets to keep you warm outside.

photographer: Gina Bowen, USA.

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Keep 'em coming!
We have 46 more slots to fill for Picture Praise in 2012. We need your great global shots and verses.

We're inviting all women serving cross-culturally to participate in submitting their photography and verses to be considered for use for Picture Praise this year.

Picture Praise goes out to over 2,000 subscribers weekly and has become one of our most inspirational and easily sharable publications. This is an opportunity to put your life on the field and the people you serve in front of many believers. Often times it is an initiator for prayer to those who receive it.

We'd love to see your corner of the world and the people who live there...so please consider submitting your photo (jpeg) and verse (not on the photo) to: editor@womenoftheharvest.com

Draw Near

2012-01-23T00:00:00.002-07:00

STORY BEHIND THE PHOTO: Picture Praise, 1/23/12

I was walking in the forest summer of 2011 while home on furlough and came across this patch of flowers blooming in the field. The Lord impressed me that He simply made creation to glorify Himself, to bring Himself delight. This image has been a reminder to me ever since that while many never see our work on the field, God sees, He knows, and He cares. And it brings HIM delight!

photographer: Kim Thompson, Latvia. "My work in Latvia is assisting the Baptist Union in the training of women leaders for the church. I am a trainer for Entrust4 and direct a women's ministry training program that now spans nationwide. It is very exciting to see Latvian and Russian women take ownership of the Titus 2 principle and train the next generation of women to live for Christ! I have also been an active part of the training program Entrust offers to missionary women: Women to Women Ministry Training."

Holding Your Hand

2012-01-16T00:00:00.001-07:00

STORY BEHIND THE PHOTO: Picture Praise, 01/16/12

After two years of sickness we finally came to the extremely difficult decision that we would have to move back to North America. Since day one of living in Dakar, Senegal I have been sick. It has been very difficult to balance sickness, language learning, my two boys, family life and ministry. But God was truly teaching us so much. It was a hard decision to make. But we are so glad that we will be doing nearly the same jobs in North America.

We slowly started packing up our things and selling what would not be able to fit into suitcases. The house was already not feeling like home anymore. It was just another place we were passing through. The beginning of December I got out the Christmas decorations and attempted to get into the "Christmas spirit." But it only resulted in tears and sadness. Where is home? Surely not here! I packed up the decorations again and decided that I just couldn't do it. When my husband came home I explained to him that Christmas was going to have to be different this year. He agreed.

We then discussed the idea of spending Christmas at the beach. Getting away as a family for a few days was exactly what our hurting hearts needed. We needed some time to bond as a family and process the upcoming change in our lives.

This photo was taken on our way to the beach. Those few days at the beach were the most refreshing few days I can remember. A time to process, relax, read the Word, and come back together as a family!

One of the main reasons we are returning home is so that I can have the physical and mental ability to disciple our children. These boys are so important to me. They are my number one ministry. This photo will forever be a treasure to us remembering the days where God reminded us that He is always there with an outstretched hand saying, "Do not fear, I will help you!"

photographer: Debra Copeland, Senegal.

Show Us Your Corner of the World

2012-01-09T08:50:00.005-07:00

This week Picture Praise goes out without the typical "Story Behind the Photo"... so I'll take this opportunity as Editor of WOTH publications to invite all women serving cross-culturally to participate in submitting their photography and verses to be considered for use for Picture Praise this year.

Picture Praise goes out to over 2,000 subscribers weekly and has become one of our most inspirational and easily sharable publications. This is an opportunity to put your life on the field and the people you serve in front of many believers. Often times it is an initiator for prayer to those who receive it.

We'd love to see your corner of the world...so please consider submitting your photo (jpeg) and verse (not on the photo) to: editor@womenoftheharvest.com.

I look forward to hearing from you.

Your friend, Cindy Blomquist, Editor.

Everything In It

2012-01-02T00:00:00.001-07:00

STORY BEHIND THE PHOTO: Picture Praise, 1/2/12

After serving in Quito, Ecuador for 18 years, a friend and supporter surprised us by offering to send us to the Galapagos Islands, which are about 600 miles off of the coast of Ecuador. Honestly, it hadn't really been something urgent on our "to do" list. I mean, it's the place where Darwin proposed his theory of "evolution," right?

However, it was probably the most amazing trip of our lives! We were astounded by God's creation. This photo was taken on our way home from our favorite day in the Galapagos Islands--a day at Isla Bartolome, a barren, volcanic island with striking blue bays and wonderful snorkeling opportunities! In fact, we had just snorkeled with a large Manta Ray and a five foot long shark.

We were tired and relaxed for the 3-hour boat ride home. I was looking back towards Isla Bartolome and couldn't help but see the island--so ugly by itself, with the beautiful light on the water, and the Ecuadorian flag blowing in the wind! Here we were, in the middle of the birthplace of Evolution, serving as missionaries to the people of Ecuador--with the testimony of his marvelous creation all around us! What a contrast to a world without hope in a Creator who loves and cherishes us! What an inspiration to continue to share the good news of how God, our Creator, loved us and sent His son to die for us.

photographer: Sheryl Shedd serves with.HCJB Global in Ecuador. Sheryl is a homeschooling, missionary mom to eight children, and has served in Quito, Ecuador for 19 years. Her husband, Daniel, was assigned to their mission's home office in Colorado Springs from 2006-2011, and they have just recently returned to live and work in Ecuador once again. Sheryl keeps pretty busy with homeschooling their five children who are still at home and helping in their Ecuadorian church. Scrapbooking and reading are on the top of the list when there are a few moments to relax.

Your Thoughts About Me

2011-12-26T00:00:00.000-07:00

STORY BEHIND THE PHOTO: Picture Praise, 12/26/11

This photograph was taken in the midst of great sadness, yet portrays to me the wonderful knowledge of God's ever present help. We stopped at this little beach (east coast of Mauritius) on our way to the airport where we would put our new friend on a plane back to Germany. Our hearts were heavy with mixed emotions. The reality of the tears and pain caused by the death of her new husband on the 3rd day of their honeymoon, against the joy of being there for her while witnessing God's mysterious work, overwhelmed me.

As I took in this beautiful scenery, God spoke to me clearly through the words of Psalm 121. When I looked to the mountains, God whispered to my heart that He is not only my Helper - but our grieving, young friend's too.

Then my gaze shifted to the sand and Psalm 139 came to mind. His thoughts towards us are so precious and numerous. How can we even entertain the smallest idea of Him deserting us?

photographer: Cecile Sander, Mauritius

Beaded Necklaces and Dreamy Hair

2011-12-19T00:00:00.000-07:00

STORY BEHIND THE PHOTO: Picture Praise, 12/19/11

The picture I submitted was from my husband and my last foray into another unknown. We recently took a trip up to South Sudan with one of our missionaries who works there. We were headed to a refugee camp called Kakuma. It is on the border of South Sudan and Kenya. Kakuma means NOWHERE! Need I say more? Fifteen kilometers of refugee homes and churches, NGOs and food distribution sites. But that's another story.

These women are from the Turkana tribe. They were on the way to the town near the refugee camp. These ladies know how to do jewelry! Piles and piles beaded necklaces laddering up their necks. And the no maintenance hair was dreamy! They just shave off the sides, braid the top and go! Inspiring!

photographer: Vera Steury, Kenya.

Now You're Just Showing Off!

2011-12-12T00:00:00.001-07:00

STORY BEHIND THE PHOTO: Picture Praise, 12/12/11

I recently had the opportunity to serve with Women of the Harvest holding retreats in Foz do Iguacu, Brazil. We welcomed missionaries from ten countries to a time of refreshment, counseling and pampering. These are the women one reads books or watches movies about, those I admire so greatly. They are a diverse, intelligent and inspiring sisterhood, pouring out their lives to bring the Good News to South America. Their stories were inspiring and heart-breaking in about equal measure.

The retreat speaker, Linda Swanson, taught on the topic of our identity in Christ. Whatever our other roles or titles-wife, mother, teacher, student-or what we are called by ourselves or others, we are first and foremost beloved by and beautiful in Christ - “God’s favorite daughter.”

Our amazing group of volunteers – as diverse and diversely talented as the attendees - spent a few days after the retreats visiting the spectacular series of waterfalls at the borders of Brazil, Argentina and Paraguay. We stood in the spray and marveled- How Great Thou Art.” We took a boat ride to the foot of the falls and laughed and screamed and worshipped.

And wondered how anyone could look on such majesty and not believe in a Creator. The thunder of the water as it cascaded over and over; the energy of the air, the swallows that soar right through and into the torrent to their nests behind the falls. Then there would be a rainbow in the mist and I’d think, “OK, God, now you’re just showing off!”

I believe God creates beauty for His own pleasure and for ours. He intend for us to understand His nature by observing what He can form on the earth and in our hearts. We were reminded at the falls that He loves us so much that our world is full of joy and pain, laughter and tears and seemingly unlimited wonder.

photographer: Susan De Graaf, USA.

Yellow Dress Girl

2011-12-05T00:00:00.002-07:00

STORY BEHIND THE PHOTO: Picture Praise, 12/5/11

I always had my camera with me in Kenya, not only due to its value, but also because I didn’t want to miss a great picture. One quiet afternoon, I decided it would be my best chance to fit in my daily journaling. I sat on a rock close to my hut and started writing. A little girl, who lived in the orphanage where we were staying, had been playing a few yards away. I watched as she hopped off the rock and headed down to the soccer field. I had a quick thought that the color of the blue door behind her would contrast her yellow dress. I picked up my camera, took a picture of her as she walked in front of the door, and went back to journaling.

photographer: Kelsey Lane, USA. "I am a 16 year-old who has always loved living in Denver, Colorado. I am a cheerleader and a junior in high school at Front Range Christian School. Every year, my youth pastor offers the Kenya trip to whomever feels called to go. I asked God if I should go, thinking there wouldn’t be a reply, but there was. And it wasn’t a very specific answer; God said, 'Go to Kenya, I want to show you something.' I asked him again and again throughout the following weeks and each time I got the same response. So I told my youth pastor I wanted to go and started fundraising."

Like a Baby's Iron Grasp

2011-11-28T00:00:00.004-07:00

STORY BEHIND THE PHOTO: Picture Praise, 11/28/11

When I was in Kenya, Pastor Francis, the man who started the orphanage where we stayed, told us about a woman, Rose, from his village. He told us her husband was murdered about two years ago during a civil war, leaving Rose with six kids and a mother-in-law to take care of, and a house that was literally falling apart before their very eyes.

We had the chance to help Rose demolish the house that burdened her. We were able to come together with others from surrounding homes to construct a new and safe home for her and her family. While the house was being brought down, one of the girls on my team was holding a neighbor’s baby. Another girl on our team saw the baby and couldn’t resist the temptation of playing with her. The baby reached out for my teammate’s finger and grabbed hold with the iron grip that babies have. I stared for a moment at how precious it looked. I reminded myself that it would look even better through the lens of my camera and snapped the photo.

Later that night lying in bed, I was looking through all the photos I had taken. I paused at this one. It was such a simple photo and a small part of my trip, but that did not suppress the excitement inside me. I looked forward to showing my friends and family back home.

photographer: Kelsey Lane, USA. "I am a 16 year-old who has always loved living in Denver, Colorado. I am a cheerleader and a junior in high school at Front Range Christian School. Every year, my youth pastor offers the Kenya trip to whomever feels called to go. I asked God if I should go, thinking there wouldn’t be a reply, but there was. And it wasn’t a very specific answer; God said, 'Go to Kenya, I want to show you something.' I asked Him again and again throughout the following weeks and each time I got the same response. So I told my youth pastor I wanted to go and started fundraising."

Picture-Postcard Perfect: Machu Picchu

2011-11-21T00:00:00.002-07:00

STORY BEHIND THE PHOTO: Picture Praise, 11/21/11

I spent a week on the river with Amazon Medical Missions, traveling to small villages to set up clinics, distribute clothing and drill a well. We shared the Gospel, prayed with every family and washed their feet. I had a blast teaching little children to brush their teeth and doing fluoride treatments. The people were beautiful, and a pod of pink Amazon River dolphins spent a day playing alongside our boat.

I am blessed with a family that prays for me as faithfully every day as they do when I am on a mission and God’s grace was abundant as I spent a week touring Peru on my own. I fulfilled a lifelong dream and visited Machu Picchu, taking the train from Cuzco, then the bus to the top of the mountain. You are not allowed to board the bus without rain gear, as it rains every day, and many people see the ruins only through fog and mist.

I arrived at the top just as the sun broke through and the view was picture-postcard perfect: grass greener than green; grazing llamas; Andean condors and snow on the mountains in the distance. This remote Incan stronghold is one of history’s great mysteries and many find it mystic and spiritual. To me, it felt familiar, as though I’d been there before. I’m grateful to God for the opportunity to see it, and the beautiful light that allowed me to enjoy and capture the moment.

photographer: Susan De Graaf, USA. Susan lives in a Norman Rockwell small town in Wisconsin and works in a busy Neonatal Intensive Care Unit. Widowed when her daughter was tiny, she takes the most joy in having raised(and homeschooled) her to be a mighty woman of God in her own right. They spent a summer at an orphanage in Mexico, have done short term missions trips together and separately, and have had the privilege of visiting Christ in women's prisons. Susan loves to travel, read, walk and learn!

I Look Forward to the Day

2011-11-14T00:00:00.000-07:00

STORY BEHIND THE PHOTO: Picture Praise, 11/14/11

If you stand atop the Citadel, amid young boys flying kites and dodging the ancient pillars of Rabbath Ammon and Philadelphia, you can discern the clear divisions of modern Amman on the adjacent hills.

To the east, Palestinian and Iraqi refugees live in overcrowded, stacked apartments after fleeing from recent wars. To the west, sit high-rise buildings and affluent neighborhoods housing well-to-do Arab families, while still in another direction is a terraced hill inhabited by poverty stricken Jordanians.

Hospitable families in each neighborhood have opened their doors to me, welcoming me with kisses and food. They have shared their heartaches, their burdens, their losses... that often came at the hand of 'other' communities and 'other' Arab nationalities in the city. Each neighborhood, each people group, and each home carries a distinct burden.

Yet through their brokenness, Christ is revealing Himself to seekers in these neighborhoods: to the oppressed and angry as the Man of Peace, to the wounded as the Comforter and Repairer of Broken Walls, and to the empty as the Giver of Life.

I look forward to the day when the diversity of the city will no longer separate and divide, but become the radiance of Christ's Body.

Creative and Colorful Creator

2011-11-07T00:00:00.001-07:00

STORY BEHIND THE PHOTO: Picture Praise, 11/07/11

In June, my missionary family from "EurAsia" had a reunion. We all went to Germany for a time of refreshment, relaxation and rekindling of love for one another and those whom God has called us to serve. A time for sightseeing was also in the plan. Part of the team went to a bird park. It was a great adventure to be up close and personal with birds that otherwise would not be seen. There were birds from all around the world.

At the "parrot station," a parrot would walk up your arm and sit on your shoulder if you stretched your arm out to him. Some of the parrots were very crafty as they would either chew a shirt collar or purse strap. I thoroughly enjoyed watching the MKs be daring enough to allow a parrot to perch on them. Not all of the birds were photogenic so to catch some good shots made it all worthwhile.

I rejoice in the creativity of the Creator and the incredible color that He used in His creation. Parrots must really bring Him joy because their colors are so vibrant.

photographer: Jayne Russell, Ukraine. Jayne serves with SEND International in Ukraine and directs the Bachelor of Christian Education and Women's Ministry programs at Kremenchuk Regional Bible College.

Psalm 67: Ukranian Harvest

2011-10-31T00:00:00.001-06:00

STORY BEHIND THE PHOTO: Picture Praise, 10/31/11

Each Fall in Ukraine, a harvest celebration takes place. It is called zhatva. A mountain of fruits and vegetables are the main attraction. Scripture is at the center of the display. This year, I was asked to help decorate. The morning of the decorating I read Psalm 67 and found it very appropriate for the day's activities. We rejoiced in God's bounty to us and providing us with food yet another year.

photographer: Jayne Russell, Ukraine. "I, too, rejoice at being in Ukraine. In November, I will celebrate 12 years on the field. I am glad to see the ultimate harvest as well."

Your Graying Years

2011-10-21T14:29:00.003-06:00

STORY BEHIND THE PHOTO: Picture Praise, 10/24/11

It was the second weekend in to my ten-month stay in Russia, where I would be teaching English in a small city in western Russia. A very close Russian friend and I traveled to the "nearby" town of Voronezh - a four hour drive - to visit another friend of ours. It happened to be the 425th anniversary of the city, and we took the opportunity to see some of the sites, which most always includes the major cathedrals and churches, known throughout the world for unique architecture and symbolism.

Of course I viewed the inside, draped a scarf over my head, and stared up high into the golden filigree of the icons staring down at me, yet I caught myself wondering how many here actually know Him. Does anyone know He truly loves, knows, seeks to uphold them?

And outside the gates I saw these two women, seemingly content in their Sunday afternoon routine, possibly selling seeds or trinkets for passersby near the grounds. It was the simplicity, after moments before experiencing the grandeur of the cathedral, that made me notice. They chose their position carefully - scarves covering their heads in a reverence that was surely routine, but also meaningful - deeply necessary. What did these women know about the God of those cupolas, the God of my life? Perhaps I would do well to learn from their faith, made stronger by lives of hardship and devastating change. And the Lord in this moment reminded me of His specific love for each one of his children - from the recent college graduate with eyes open wide to the weathered old women with eyes narrowly focused... oh, that we would be looking in the same direction.

photographer: Juliana Jordon, Russia. "I'm teaching English for the year in a small city in Western Russia."

Come to the Waters

2011-10-17T00:00:00.000-06:00

STORY BEHIND THE PHOTO: Picture Praise, 10/17/11

I was visiting this village in Burkina Faso, Africa. I was amazed that most of the villages have wells built by many different organizations who sponsor those who need water for their health. I watched the villagers come from the field where they were working and being able to drink good water. Their health has improved so much because they are taking care of themselves.
photographer: Linda Ellis, Burkina Faso. "I am currently living in Burkina Faso to help the teachers who work with the students with hearing loss for one year or so."

Bears our Burdens

2011-10-10T00:00:00.004-06:00

STORY BEHIND THE PHOTO: Picture Praise, 10/10/11

While serving as a nurse in a Yanomami jungle village in Northern Brazil I would sometimes go walking to visit a sick baby, a discouraged mother or anyone who happened to be at home. I often had my camera in hand. I took this picture of Maikox because I liked the jungle frame around him. He was returning after gathering leaves and twine to be used in the thatch roof on a new house.

The more I looked at the picture later it reminded me of the less visible burdens we often carry. This particular man has heard many times about the God who offers to take his burden of sin, but sadly he chooses to continue being weighed down and destroyed by its weight. As believers we are so blessed to be able to walk freely, having handed our burdens to a strong God! Let's not grow weary in sharing and living that message! The Lord will work in people's hearts in His time.

photographer: Debbie Murphy, Brazil. “I am a nurse and I worked for 8 years in this Yanomami village in northern Brazil. I did medical work in the village as well as Bible teaching with the women.”

Knowledge of the Glory

2011-10-03T00:00:00.002-06:00

STORY BEHIND THE PHOTO: Picture Praise, 10/3/11

While in Australia, we took a tour of The Great Ocean Road. This route, along the southern edge of the continent, is beautiful and inspiring while being wild and somewhat brutal. To the north, an enormous continent of extremes; to the south, fierce icy water; next stop, Antarctica. As we are from the northern part of the US, everything in Australia was foreign and mysterious - whole species of trees and animals found nowhere else on earth.

We were about as far from home as it's possible to be, yet we were not separated from the love of Christ. That ocean was created by our Father; His voice roared in the water, even the koalas call Him Lord. We were in awe of His power and proud to belong to the Creator of this wild beauty. We are aware of His presence with us wherever we go. When we worship with Christians there, or in Africa or South America, we are home.

photographer: Susan DeGraaf, US

Jubilant

2011-09-26T00:00:00.001-06:00

STORY BEHIND THE PHOTO: Picture Praise, 9/26/11

This picture was taken one day when I was out for a walk on la rambla (a walkway) along the coastal shore of Montevideo. This walkway is a refuge for me as I love feeling like I have escaped the busy city life and am out in nature enjoying the great outdoors. It's true, I'm a country girl living in a big city...and la rambla is my 'great outdoor' adventure!

I have been working in this city as part of a church planting team for almost two years. I regularly like to go for a run or walk along la rambla and be reminded of the beauty of God's creation. God's artistic work in the majestic skies above, the rolling seas, the sandy beaches, and the flowers of the fields declare God's glory in a city where the people pride themselves in being atheist and have not yet repented or turned to their Heavenly Creator and Savior. I am reminded daily that if the people will not sing praises to their Creator, the rocks will cry out. Creation is singing unto its Creator and declaring His glory!

O that the creation and handiwork of God displayed along the coast of Uruguay will draw Uruguayans to confess with their mouths that Jesus is Lord and believe in their hearts that God has raised Him from the dead! What a day it will be!!

photographer: Rebecca Zurbrick, Montevideo, Uruguay.

Formerly | Now

2011-09-19T00:00:00.002-06:00

STORY BEHIND THE PHOTO: Picture Praise, 09/19/11

The day I took this picture I was walking around the homes near mine, visiting with any women who might be home. I took a picture of Mitiele, the little child in the photo, from a bit of a distance because I knew she would quickly crawl to her mother inside as I approached.

The Yanomami people in this village (and throughout Venezuela and Northern Brazil) live in fear of spirits and try please the spirits in order to avoid sickness and harm. The darkness and fear in their lives is almost palpable sometimes. In this village of Palimi-U, as translation of the Bible progresses and years of Bible teaching begins to take root, God's light is shining in the lives of the believers.

Mitiele's parents are believers and her father has become a strong leader in the church. He also helps with Bible translation work and has traveled to a neighboring village to teach and challenge the people there as well. It is a tremendous challenge for the Yanomami to walk as children of light within their culture, but by God's grace it is possible!

photographer: Debbie Murphy, Brazil. “I am a nurse and I worked for 8 years in this Yanomami village in northern Brazil. I did medical work in the village as well as Bible teaching with the women.”

Shining in Our Hearts

2011-09-12T00:00:00.002-06:00

THE STORY BEHIND THE PHOTO: Picture Praise, 9/12/11

This photo was taken April 24, 2011 on Pondol (pun-dole) Beach, Negros Oriental Island in the Philippines. The body of Christ from the local mountains came down before sunrise and we worshipped the Lord together at 5 a.m., remembering the day Jesus rose again (Resurrection Sunday). Once the sun was out, Pastor shared some Scriptures about baptism and 15 were baptized that day - Hallelujah!

photographer: Theresa Frazier, Dumaguete, Philippines.

More Valuable

2011-09-05T11:12:00.001-06:00

THE STORY BEHIND THE PHOTO: Picture Praise, 9/5/11

This bird picture was taken last November when I was borrowing the wonderful camera of one of our missionary colleagues. :) I usually sit by the window in our guest room to have my morning devotions and drink my coffee and this colorful saffron finch, along with sparrows, robins and other birds, would often come and perch on top of the concrete posts which make up the fence around our small front yard. When I saw how beautifully this photo turned out - thanks to the camera - I knew it would be perfect for one of the "fotocards" which I frequently make. I usually put Portuguese verses on them but I made this one especially for a friend of mine in Canada who is going through some serious physical problems. She used to sing "His Eye Is On The Sparrow" so I knew this was the perfect photo to make a card for her!

photographer: Rena Nunley, serving in south Brazil with Baptist Mid-Missions.

Making Darkness Light

2011-08-29T00:00:00.002-06:00

THE STORY BEHIND THE PHOTO: Picture Praise, 8/29/11

My first night in the city as the call to prayer rang out, I was in awe. The etherial sunset behind the famous blue mosque, its Adhan echoing the others, and the smell of shwarma below enchanted me. I couldn't miss the chance to capture it on camera.

This roof became the place where I would sleep on hot summer nights, hang my laundry, grill Arab barbeque with my neighbors, make penny wishes with visiting college students, and worship with my roommate.

Over time as I began to feel the weight of Islam and the chains it held on my friends and neighbors, listening to the call to prayer on my roof became an act of faith... trusting that one day His Voice will be heard above any loud speaker and will call true worshippers to Himself. Not because of me, who neither began the work nor will finish it, but because of His faithfulness to a work that is ancient.

My roommate and I often stand on the roof overlooking the city, imagining our praises and prayers mingling with those ancients (Moses, Aaron, the 12 tribes, and many whom we have never heard) who worshipped and prayed on this very same sand just a few thousand years earlier. We picture God, who exists outside of time, receiving all of our praises as one as they rise up together from the desert of Jordan.

There are some days when I look out and all I can see of this current city is sprinkled with mosques. Yet when I remember those who have gone before us, my 'faith eyes' can almost see the completion of 'Ancient Work' when one day my Arab friends will join with us in the great multitude of worshippers.

little guy | Big Story

2011-08-22T00:00:00.002-06:00

STORY BEHIND THE PHOTO: Picture Praise, 8/22/11

Can you imagine asking a child if he wants more bread or just candy, and he answers, “Just bread, please”? We minister to Quechua children in the valleys of Bolivia and in remote mountain villages. Every Christmas we travel to villages high in the Andes Mountains, above the tree line; we take gifts, food and the Good News to children living without even the basic needs, and without Jesus.

Little Paco met us coming into his village. He was wearing little sandals made of truck tires and no sweater for the cold weather. We put clothes on his back and food in his stomach. His eyes lit up when he saw the gifts and candy but what he wanted most was the bread; a real treat where there’s no firewood to bake bread. When he heard the story of Jesus he accepted the gift of salvation joyfully and without hesitation.

Paco is just a little guy but with a big story that points the way to heaven; trust the Father, believe in Jesus and enter the kingdom with childlike faith. Paco may only have bread when we visit but he will always have the Bread of Life.

photographer: Peggy Cunningham, Bolivia

The Power of the Son

2011-08-15T00:00:00.001-06:00

STORY BEHIND THE PHOTO: Picture Praise, 8/15/11

Here in Lithuania, the winters are long. And the winters are dark. Very dark. We spend the fall enjoying every last minute of sunlight we can soak in as the days get shorter and shorter. In late December the sun won’t rise until after 9 am and it sets again by 4 pm. The winter weather is often gray and gloomy, making it a hard place to live in the winter. It can feel oppressive.

But sometime around late February, we start noticing a lengthening of days. A couple extra minutes of sunlight in the evening can feel like hours with the amount that we’ve missed it! And then the sun starts meeting me through my window during my early morning devotion time…and before I know it, I come downstairs for devotions with full sunlight streaming through my windows! Spring is a time of rejoicing: new growth, new life, new LIGHT!

This sunset photo was taken in late April around 8:30 pm. Every day gets longer and longer until July – when the sun won’t set until after midnight and starts to rise again by 3:00 am. Summer in the Baltics is a joyful time because of the sunlight! We try to soak up as much as we can and put it on reserve—llike a built-in solar panel—to save for the winter.

But sadly, it never lasts. Lithuania has one of the highest suicide rates in the world. It can be a sad, sad place to live—especially in the winter. But this is why my family and I are here— to share the hope we have in Christ with university students who grew up in post-Soviet countries like this one. And it’s because of this hope that we can praise His name—during the darkest winter or the sunniest summer!

photographer: Kim Stave, Lithuania.

The Height of Worry

2011-08-08T00:00:00.004-06:00

STORY BEHIND THE PHOTO: Picture Praise, 8/8/11

This picture was taken while I was attending a conference for United Christian Broadcasters in South Africa. At the conference, various radio broadcasters representing radio stations around the world--especially those in the Sub-Saharan portion of Africa--were discussing how to reach dying and crying humanity, the lost, with the Good News of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. My heart broke regarding the lack of access to basic physical food and spiritual food for these people groups.

Afterwards during a scheduled break, I see the graceful, long-necked giraffe off to the side near the group of trees. The giraffe is contently munching on some tasty green leaves. Oh how effortless it looks and how natural it is; the Lord has given the giraffe the provision of a long neck to easily access nourishing food. Oh, that I would trust and concentrate on His provision and not let the cares of the world rob me of His perfect plan and purpose for my life and the lives of all that He has created.

photographer: Dawn Stallings, Golden Rule Broadcasting

Learn. Seek. Defend.

2011-08-01T00:00:00.005-06:00

STORY BEHIND THE PHOTO: Picture Praise, 08/01/11

One day I went with my friend to her village to a naming ceremony for the baby of a relative of hers. While there we went to visit my friend's mom. Her mom asked me to take this picture. It was dark in the house, but light was shining in from the door, making the perfect light for this picture.

photographer: Nancy DeValve, Niger. "My husband and I are cross-cultural workers in Niger."

What's NEW this Week @ WOTH:

*WOTH onlineMagazine: Have you read the July/August 2011 issue? Serving Him is wild and unpredictable : Read "Kidnapped" and "To Be Wanted: Sex and the Lure of a Text."

My Eyes Can See

2011-07-25T00:00:00.004-06:00

STORY BEHIND THE PHOTO: Picture Praise, 07/25/11

I captured this picture of my son and a friend one afternoon as we picnicked at a scenic lookout over our mountain city. The giant cross is visible from nearly every neighborhood in the town below, backlit by the early sunrise, and reflecting the last rays of daylight as the sun sets over the mountains on the other side of the valley. Frequently as an afternoon rain shower ends, a double rainbow appears to spring up from the cross into the blue sky above. I can see this cross right now as I gaze out the window of my home office, and it stands as a daily reminder of what should be the top priority not only in our work as Scripture promoters among the Quechua people, but also in my personal life: to set the Lord always before me.

photographer: Rachel Yanac,Wycliffe Bible Translators, Peru

What's NEW this Week @ WOTH:

*Weekly Word e-Bible Study--New series on I Corinthians: Paul's Principles for Churches, by Pat Laube. "For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God" (I Corinthians 1:18). Power-up women and strengthen your walk with Him!

Weekly Word is free and delivered to your Inbox every Wednesday. Sign up by clicking here.

How Wide

2011-07-18T00:00:00.001-06:00

STORY BEHIND THE PHOTO: Picture Praise, 7/18/11

It’s funny when you are in a foreign country where you don’t know the language. I do village nursing and physio in these small communities, sometimes going far up mountainous areas. I was on a walk trying to discover it on my own, without an interpreter, seeking to find out what this village was about. I had just met some kids who had just got out of school, as I was taking some pictures of beautiful scenery. The kids were following me on their scooters, being very adept and showing off some of their tricks by not going over some cliffs on the narrow roads! As we arrived at the village they were saying goodbye, but wanted me to take a picture of them first.

Usually everyone wants to do the “victory” sign in a photo and they actually automatically posed with this. I didn’t want this pose so I started showing them to do something different – like, for example, flying like an airplane. So I just caught them in the action! They loved to see their pic - so good of an opportunity to get to know them. And they were also getting to know me too! I hope I started a different trend too!

Just as a side note: that road was later closed to foreigners. It shows we have to take the opportunity when it is there.

photographer: Lynn T., RAC

Planted & Placed

2011-07-11T00:00:00.001-06:00

STORY BEHIND THE PHOTO: Picture Praise, 7/11/11

Having served in rural Kenya, I am drawn to the work friends do in the more rural parts of Indonesia. While I was working at an international school in Jakarta, I visited dear friends who have been working among a people group in a less open-minded part of this country. Early one morning, my friend showed me the path where her morning walk would take her... It was early enough for the sun to cast long shadows on the rice paddies. Of the 8 million people in this area, only a couple hundred are believers.

photographer: Adele Booysen, Java, Indonesia

Hanging in the Balance

2011-07-04T00:00:00.001-06:00

THE STORY BEHIND THE PHOTO: Picture Praise, 7/04/11

We work in rural northern Bangladesh with The Leprosy Mission International. On the day I took the photo, we were headed to a village to visit one of our community-based rehabilitation groups. The car had gone as far as possible and the rest of the journey was taken on foot. These groups of about 10-15 members meet monthly to save money, assist each other in caring for their leprosy-affected feet and hands, and address other needs they may have. Bridges over rice fields like this are quite common. Actually, this one is quite sturdy, having been built to accommodate rickshaws, not just foot traffic. The tenuousness of life here – where houses, bridges, and lives are daily hanging in the balance – is a constant reminder of God’s sustaining hand.

photographer: Sherilyn Bowers, Bangladesh.

Right or Left

2011-06-27T00:00:00.003-06:00

STORY BEHIND THE PHOTO: Picture Praise, 6/27/11

This was taken at Lynn Canyon Suspension Bridge near Vancouver, Canada when I was there visiting my brother in January 2010. He took the picture of me without me knowing – and I like the way it looks like I am walking into the unknown, and that there is only one way to walk... it reminded me of this verse in Isaiah.

photo submitted by: Belinda Chaplin, Bosnia. "I am a South African, working in Bosnia with YWAM. I am involved in English teaching and Humanitarian aid and work with the local Protestant Church. I have been here almost 10 years now."

from the pages of the May/June '11 issue of the WOTH onlineMagazine:

It's the season of travel: furlough, vacation, re-locating. Read the article, "Easing Airport Stress: 7 Great Tips to Emotions from Taking Off" by Gwen Klontz, Bolivia, and experience a new [peaceful] way to glide through the airport as you head to your next destination.

Never Thirsty

2011-06-20T00:00:00.004-06:00

STORY BEHIND THE PHOTO: Picture Praise, 6/20/11

We were headed up there to visit when we had to stop and assess the condition of the 'road' which was going through the river. These ladies were delighted to have fresh, clean water running over the rocks. It made it so much easier for them to scoop out instead of having to dig deep into the sand like they normally do during the dry season.

photographer: Vera Steury, Kenya. "My husband and I have been in Kenya now for 24 years. We work with the Maasai tribe in a remote area of Kenya. We do community-based health care (immunizations, HIV/AIDS counseling, clean water projects). I teach Sunday School, homeschool my own kids, and run a small guest house. My husband was born in Kenya as a missionary kid. All three of our children were also." You can visit Vera @ www.Steuryngs.blogspot.com

from the pages of the May/June '11 issue of the WOTH onlineMagazine:

"The Lasagna Fiasco: Tasting Humility One Bite at a Time" by Betsy C., Turkey.

One reader's response from the Message Board: "Thank you for the reminder about the impact pride has on how we respond to comments and actions of others! I needed that"

Patagonian Strength

2011-06-13T00:00:00.004-06:00

STORY BEHIND THE PHOTO: Picture Praise, 6/13/11

This is a picture of the Torres del Paine in the national park of the same name in Patagonia, Chile. As I look on them I recognize that they have stood for thousands of years and while they are weathered they stand strong and firm. And the verse that comes to mind each time I view them is "The name of the LORD is a strong tower, the righteous run to it and are safe." Proverbs 18:10 He has the strength that I need to get me through the trials and hardships. He is my strong tower.

photographer: Jacolyn Bursmeyer, Chile.

from the pages of the May/June '11 issue of the WOTH onlineMagazine:

"Loving Arabs Without Losing Myself"...staring into my closet I wondered, " What outfit would produce the least amount of comments?" by Robin W., Jordon.

One reader's response from the Message Board: "This is a wonderful spirit and change of heart attitude to proclaim. Many years ago I lived in a major Western European city, and the troubles I experienced as a young female among a sea of North African Muslim men were deeply disturbing. I must say it took me many years, even while living in the US again, before I overcame my feelings of anger and hatred toward these men. I asked God to help me feel compassion. It was not easy. Thank you for sharing your heart and desire to love those who mistreat you through no fault of your own"

Remember

2011-06-06T00:00:00.005-06:00

STORY BEHIND THE PHOTO: Picture Praise, 6/6/11

This picture was taken in the famous bullring in Sevilla, Spain. This area of Spain is the birthplace of bullfighting and visited by thousands every year. While we sat and enjoyed the view, a perfect piece of rainbow began to form even though there was no rain. Everyone sat quietly and marveled at it. It lasted a few minutes, and then it was gone.

photographer: Chantelle McIver, International Worker in Niger, Africa.

from the pages of the May/June '11 issue of the WOTH onlineMagazine:

"My Struggle to Walk in Peace"...false accusations were wrecking havoc on me. By Kimberly Johnson, South America.

Mindful of Us

2011-05-30T00:00:00.007-06:00

STORY BEHIND THE PHOTO: Picture Praise, 5/30/11

I took this shot out of a train window traveling through extreme western China on our way to Kashgar. The man in the photo looked so alone in the midst of such an expansive grassland. If you look closely at the photo, you can see that he is holding a sickle in his hand.

photographer: Nancy Todd, US. "My husband, Terry, and I are on staff with Barnabas International. We are privileged to do pastoral care of global servants living in Asia and Africa."

from the pages of the May/June '11 issue of the WOTH onlineMagazine:

"I'm Not Interested in Getting Married: The Joy of Serving as a Single...Really!" by Hahassah, Asia.

One reader's response from the Message Board: "Thank you for the clarity and insight which you brought to the topic of marriage and singleness in this article. I will be showing it to several friends."

Hey Bro!

2011-05-23T00:00:00.000-06:00

STORY BEHIND THE PHOTO: Picture Praise, 5/23/11

This picture captures two aspects of life here:

1) Ben's [my son] happiness at having a good friend. He'd felt rather friendless after some of the friends he'd had when we first moved here moved away to other mission assignments with their families. Ben had really been struggling last year in school and with deep sadness. This picture captures the essence of healing, a glad heart, and joy. For me, it was good to see my son smiling and happy. "A glad heart makes a cheerful face..." (Proverbs 15:13).

2) The second aspect this picture captures the essence of our life here in the Philippines—DIVERSE—filled with wonderful friends from many nationalities. We are blessed. This picture was taken on the track and field day at Faith Academy, an international Christian school for missionary kids he goes to here in Davao.

photographer: Beth Symanzik, Philippines. “We moved overseas over 4 years ago. This is our first time overseas. Our oldest daughter was 12 when we moved here. Now she is 16 and loves it here! Our family has been through many changes and stresses. We came over as a family of 5 and are now a family of 7; we’re in the process of adopting twin boys. We've had them since they were 9 weeks old. They are 3 years-old now. My husband works as a software developer in our mission organization. I have been guest house manager and hospitality coordinator. Currently I am being a full-time mom and also working on a masters degree in counseling.

Grand Faith

2011-05-16T00:00:00.002-06:00

STORY BEHIND THE PHOTO: Picture Praise, 5/16/11

Doña Concha loves her children and grandchildren. She has been a grandmother who gives affection as well as discipline. We see her here with one of her many grandchildren. Pedrito is a bright, inquisitive child always on the move, yet all that activity stops when it is time for a hug from his dear “Mama Conchita.” How reassuring are frequent hugs throughout the day. He will often intertwine his hands in her long silvery braid, as so many young children naturally do with the hair of their mothers and grandmothers.

photographer: Denise Aulie has called Mexico home for 34 years and looks back at a significant life of ministry in evangelism, discipleship and church planting with her husband, Ed, and their five children. Denise teaches, public speaks, writes and has an ongoing ministry of hospitality. Photography has an indispensable place in her heart as a means of interaction, outreach and giving to those she has the privilege of knowing. This beautiful tool has literally opened doors for conveying the Good News. She and her family are part of Last Frontiers - lastfrontiersmission.com

He Cares...He Really Cares!

2011-05-09T00:00:00.003-06:00

STORY BEHIND THE PHOTO: Picture Praise, 05/09/11

This beautiful little wild flower was growing up between the concrete blocks of our back patio where we hang the laundry. It was a huge reminder to me of God's sovereignty and infinite care. As Scripture reminds us..."and if God cares so wonderfully for wildflowers that are here today and thrown into the fire tomorrow, he will certainly care for you.”

He cares that I am still in the turmoil of cultural adjustment as we've only been living here for seven months. He cares that I still don't understand the language. He cares that I miss my friends. He cares for my kids as they attend a Spanish-speaking school even though they don't yet speak Spanish. He cares that I can't find Cheerios in the grocery store. He cares that we have left everything familiar behind to follow Him into the unfamiliar.

That single flower growing up in an unlikely place served as a reminder that God cares and He is walking this journey with me and my family as we seek to love and obey Him in Nicaragua (Central America).

photographer: Bethany Bracht, Managua, Nicaragua

Bread Alone

2011-05-02T00:00:00.003-06:00

STORY BEHIND THE PHOTO: Picture Praise, 05/02/11

Psalm 104 splendidly describes God's greatness, generosity and amazing creation. Living in rural Europe, I can relate to this psalm...clouds, mountains, livestock, wine and bread. Once I was watching the Jesus film (in Italian) with the daughter of cross-cultural workers.

"Man shall not live by bread alone!" she translated.

"Oh?" I asked.

"You should have wine with it!" she quipped.

That's a European MK for you! I’d be happy to have just bread, if only I could find a good hearty one here in the U.S. After a year of home assignment, I can't wait to get back to Bauernbrot (farmers’ loaf) and chewy crusts!

I have friends who compare Europe to less developed locales and feel I live in “Disneyland.” Yes, Europe is clean and quaint, but it is still a needy field. Prayeurope.com says about Germany: "The Church is sometimes perceived as irrelevant and marginalized. There is increased open hostility to anything Christian, and the occult and a New Age worldview are on the rise, but evangelicals are slowly growing in numbers." That's why I feel privileged to serve at a Christian school, in Germany, ministering to children of cross-cultural workers to Europe, Africa and Asia.

photographer: Mari Ellen Reeser, Germany.

Monday is Laundry Day

2011-04-25T00:00:00.005-06:00

STORY BEHIND THE PHOTO: Picture Praise, 04/25/11

The city of Valparaíso sits facing the Pacific coast, one of the chief ports of Chile. It is built on a series of hills and gullies. There are more than forty hills and to pass from one to the other, one has to go up to the top of hill or down to area at the waterfront. Houses built on the sides of the hills seem to defy gravity. The houses have no patios or garden areas where clothes might be hung so the string their clothes line out the window. Painting these houses is no easy task but the people want to make their city attractive. Many talk about the sights and the sounds and the smells of Valparaíso. Each is unique but unable to be captured by a photograph.

It was to this city in November of 1959 my wife, Evelyn, and I, along with our daughter Kathleen, arrived by boat. It was not to be our place of residence as we were embarking on our missionary work. However, we have returned often to visit churches in the area. We also have returned with visitors from abroad who never find enough time to take in all there is to see in the city, even scenes showing washing hanging from windows of colorful houses hugging the hillside. This picture was taken from a street on one side of the gully. Steps close by were available to walk down and across to the other side.

Photographer: David Jones, Chile. “Our home is inland in the city of San Felipe which lies in the foothills of the Andean mountains where the main highway connecting Chile to Argentina runs. We have nothing but praise to God for His keeping care for more than fifty-one years of missionary work. Each city presents a need that only Christ can satisfy and we seek God’s help to fulfill that need with the preaching of the gospel.”

Flowers Appear

2011-04-18T00:00:00.001-06:00

STORY BEHIND THE PHOTO: Picture Praise, 04/18/11

On Sunday afternoons, I take my camera for a walk. It is part of my "resting." Resting for me comes in what brings joy to my heart. Photography is a hobby. Flowers are my favorite things to photograph. There are many wonderful gardens to photograph here. My "spiritual metaphor" is flowers and weeds. God uses nature to help me to see his full plan for my life. Flowers are things that I intentionally put in my life and cultivate to help me grow. Weeds are things that are in my life and often not by choice. Those weeds help me to grow as well and in different ways. One day the Master Gardener will cultivate the harvest in my life and separate the weeds from the flowers.

photographer: Jayne Russell, Ukraine. “I have been in Ukraine for eleven and half years with SEND International. For the past six and half years, I have taught at Kremenchuk Regional Bible College in Kremenchuk, Ukraine (4 hours south of Kiev). I teach and direct the Christian Education and Women's Ministry programs at the college. I designed the Women's Ministry program while in graduate school. We are finishing the first group this year as a two year program, Next year, we will enroll students for a Bachelor level (4 years) program in Women's Ministry and Educational Ministries. Students take the courses on a 'modular' basis so applying what they learn is always fresh. I love what I do....though grading papers is the hardest part. As a single woman, I am thrilled to be able to serve God in this capacity. In my "spare" time, I do a craft class for the kids at church on Saturday mornings and sewing class in the afternoons. Twice per month, I host a cooking/baking class for young moms. They love the fellowship and new recipes. There is time for good discussion while whatever is cooking/baking, then we eat!”

My Burden is Light

2011-04-11T00:00:00.007-06:00

STORY BEHIND THE PHOTO: Picture Praise, 04/11/11

After almost 10 years in Africa, I’m so used to men and women carrying huge loads on their heads. Once in a while, though, an exceptional load catches my eye and almost immediately the verse came to my mind. Especially women carry heavy ‘loads’ here, in all kinds of ways. It’s my prayer that their burdens could be lighter and they would find peace for their souls. I shot this picture on a family vacation at the coast of Ghana.

Photographer: Ineke Van Dingenen, Burkina Faso. “I’m a mother of 4 girls and my husband is a doctor. We’re missionaries with Tearfund Belgium to Burkina Faso, West Africa. Our mission is to make good quality medicine available to all, including the poorest. I must say we are really stuck to our computer these days to follow on internet what happens in neighboring country Ivory Coast. We had quite a week last week here too with curfew, soldiers shooting in the air all night etc… there’s a lot going on nowadays, isn’t it? It’s good to know God has everything in his hands!”

Cheery Cherries

2011-04-04T00:00:00.004-06:00

STORY BEHIND THE PHOTO: Picture Praise, 04/04/11

It was the height of autumn when I arrived in this city 6 months ago, and I was dazzled by the colorful abundance of fruit and berries growing everywhere. This photo was taken in a local park I walked through every day on my way to the mission base. It's a cerisier sauvage (wild cherry tree), a favorite with the local birds but - sadly - not for human consumption. Doesn't it look amazing - all that fruit... and no leaves!

photographer: Kathy Day, France. "I'm a single Australian WOTH, working in France with a media Mission team to produce radio, TV and Internet material for church planting across North Africa and the Middle East."

What's NEW This Week @ WOTH:

*WOTH Book Club: Starts TODAY...hop over to the blog and see what our Blog Host, Linda Swanson, is saying about our latest read, The Help.

*WOTH Retreats: Registration is now OPEN for our two remaining 2011 Retreats.

The Furlough Retreat @ Glen Eyrie, CO on July 11-14

The Fall Retreat @ Foz do Iguacu, Brazil on October 16-19 & 20-23

Giggling Girls

2011-03-28T00:00:00.002-06:00

STORY BEHIND THE PHOTO: Picture Praise, 3/28/11

I was on a walk taking photographs in a village near my house one late afternoon when these four girls met me on their way home from school. They smiled and we exchanged greetings, pausing for a moment, and then they kept walking. Soon I heard them giggling and coming back towards me. They appointed the oldest girl to speak for them, and she said they wanted to shake my hand. (They don't often encounter foreigners, especially that they can talk to ;) They all giggled as I shook their hands and asked them a few questions about school that day. As they turned and ran down the road, I snapped this photo. I only wished it captured the sound of their laughter!

photographer: Gretchen Zens, Poipet, Cambodia.

What's NEW this Week @ WOTH:

*New Book Club starts next Monday: The Book--The Help. Click through for more details and book discounts!

*New Blog goes live next Tuesday: "Yellow Dress: and other things we do for Love", hosted by a young, single woman serving in the Middle East. Promises to tap into a whole new point of view for women serving cross-culturally.

My Peace

2011-03-21T00:00:00.007-06:00

STORY BEHIND THE PHOTO: Picture Praise, 3/21/11

I took this beautiful picture a few weeks after arriving in our new country of service. Little did I know that some days later, those very same calm waters would be disturbed by a cyclone passing by in the Indian Ocean. The contrast of the two views, reminded me of the words Jesus spoke to His disciples while preparing them for His departure. It also brought back the reality of how much I need those very words in the midst of all the unknowns I am facing in this spectecular surroundings, yet filled with idolatory and poverty that breaks one's heart. I know Jesus is with us in every season of life speaking those very words into ourcircumstances. Glory to Him!!

photographer: Cecile Sander, Mauritus.

What's NEW this Week @ WOTH:

*onlineMagazine: Check out our newest issue, March/April 2011, and see what is prompting great comments like this one: "Thanks for putting together the edition that you did! I think it's one of the best ever. Encouraging in that 'we're not alone' kind of way and helpful with the real stuff that we face overseas. Thanks!"

Beautiful

2011-03-14T00:00:00.000-06:00

STORY BEHIND THE PHOTO: Picture Praise, 3/14/11

The picture was taken during a ceremony here at Olderkesi [Kenya]. We have a training school for pastors (for men and women who have not been past 8th grade, and just want to mentor others). So this little girl was just one in the crowd at the graduation ceremony, and having a fun time showing off her new hairdo!

photographer: Vera Steury, Kenya. "My husband and I have been in Kenya now for 24 years. We work with the Maasai tribe in a remote area of Kenya. We do community-based health care (immunizations, HIV/AIDS counseling, clean water projects). I teach Sunday School, homeschool my own kids, and run a small guest house. My husband was born in Kenya as a missionary kid. All three of our children were also. I finally started a blog (www.Steuryngs.blogspot.com). It's stories of experiences we've had all these years. I just wanted a forum to tell those stories. We put out a prayer letter, and that tells how our ministry is going, and our mission has a page for each of its missionaries, so I didn't want it to be that repeated. I am also starting a Bible study for a gaggle of 'house maids"-- girls about 12-13 years old who kind of get lost in the shuffle of life out here. So that's pretty interesting shuttling back and forth between three languages!"

The Narrow Door

2011-03-07T00:00:00.001-07:00

STORY BEHIND THE PHOTO: Picture Praise, 03/07/11

This door was found at the end of an alley in the middle of the old area of town in Marrakech. What struck me is that this door was inset into the concrete and only came up to my waist. You had to go on your knees to unlock and open the door, then step down right next to the wall and lower yourself into the door. I don't know what was behind this door, but I hope it was worth the difficulty to enter!

photographer: Chantelle McIver, International Worker in Niger, Africa.

Land of Promise

2011-02-28T00:00:00.002-07:00

STORY BEHIND THE PHOTO: Picture Praise, 02/28/11

This tiny Muslim country in the Arabian Gulf is undergoing an astounding and rapid transition into the modern world. One of the great challenges in this rush toward progress is not leaving behind traditional culture and values. When we first arrived here several years ago, these traditional beduin style tents, used for men's wedding celebrations, were quite common. Over the next few years, as the skyline rose, the tents disappeared. Now, however, the traditional tents are making a comeback. As I watch the fascinating process of a people trying to redefine themselves, I am reminded that no matter where I find myself, my true citizenship is beyond any country on earth.

photographer: Desertbird, RAC

No Longer Night

2011-02-21T00:00:00.003-07:00

STORY BEHIND THE PHOTO: Picture Praise, 2/21/11

Going back to the North of Mozambique from South Africa after our furlough, takes us on a 5-day car journey. And usually quite exciting driving too! Dodging huge potholes for hours, driving alongside the “road” for many kilometers, seeing buses and taxi’s filled to maximum capacity and usually topped with some goats makes for lots of entertainment. The picture was taken where we slept over at the coast. Although we live far from the ocean, there is only one road going north, which follows the coast about half of the way of our journey. We enjoyed the beautiful beach and sunset – Africa in rich colors!

photographer: Belinda Paetzold. "We live in a small village in the far north of Mozambique. Here we are busy studying the local language and are working towards church planting amongst a least reached people group. We work with SIM and have been in the village for 2 years now. We have 3 children which we homeschool. We live very isolated with our closest missionary neighbors 4 km away and other friends 1 1/2 hours away. Our closest town is 75km from here. It is good to be in contact with others that work cross-cultural through WOTH! Although it is not easy to live way out in the bush, we realize daily just how much in need of a Savior the people around us are! Jesus truly is the only Hope!"

Called Away

2011-02-14T00:00:00.003-07:00

STORY BEHIND THE PHOTO: Picture Praise, 2/14/11

This photo was taken while I was on home assignment in my beautiful home town of Cape Town. It was taken from Robben Island where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned for 18 years. It is looking back across Table Bay at Table Mountain (complete with "tablecloth") and the city of Cape Town. I love my city (with good reason as the picture shows how beautiful it is!) and once told God that I would serve Him for the rest of my life, as long as He didn't call me away from Cape Town. He obviously changed my heart as I have been serving Him for 10 years in Bosnia Herzegovina and not looking to come back to Cape Town anytime soon.

photographer: Belinda Chaplin serves with YWAM in Bosnia Herzegovina

Hold Fast

2011-02-08T00:00:00.002-07:00

WOTH PICTURE PRAISE, 02/07/11

Once again this week we are not able to publish the "Story Behind the Photo" due to security reasons.

Is security one of your work realities? Click over to the WOTH Writer's Blog this week and read: "Veiled Writing: When You Need Security." Here's an excerpt:

"The bigger question is -- can you communicate genuine issues and not tell the whole world where you work? I think you can. People stories are what communicate most deeply to your audience, and people issues are universal. Depression, spiritual conflicts, broken marriages, fear, barrenness, rebellious children. Are not these the problems all those searching for Jesus face? Even those who are following Jesus are still dealing with the baggage of their past life."

rebuild. restore. renew.

2011-02-01T09:01:00.004-07:00

PICTURE PRAISE, 1/31/11

They will rebuild the ancient ruins

and restore the places long devastated;

they will renew the ruined cities

that have been devastated for generations.

~Isaiah 61:4

Coffeegirl Community: Picture Praise needs
your photos and verses!

Send in your global photos (jpeg) along with a pertinent verse (separately, we'll do the layout) today to: editor@womenoftheharvest.com

Desert Hope

2011-01-25T00:00:00.003-07:00

PICTURE PRAISE, 1/24/11

photographer: Jennifer Wright, Niger

WHAT's New this Week @ WOTH:

*WOTH 2011 Spring Retreat in the Middle East: February 27 - March 2 & March 3 - 6. Watch this video (see sidebar) to catch the story of a young woman serving in the desert!

Interested in attending? Contact us: retreats@womenoftheharvest.com
Interested in sponsoring a woman to attend? Click here.

Headed Home

2011-01-18T00:00:00.005-07:00

STORY BEHIND THE PHOTO: Picture Praise, 01/17/11

The story behind the picture of the laundry lady... she was coming back from the river and was WAY up on the plains, far from the source of water. So she had to have tugged that load a long way, and she had extra water for home too! We were coming home from a long exhausting trip, full of meetings, appointments, and harrowing shopping forays, all the extras that go with being away from home. I was feeling pretty sorry for myself sitting in my comfortable Landrover when we saw her. Talk about getting a knot jerked in your tail!

photographer: Vera Steury, Kenya. "My husband and I have been in Kenya now for 24 years. We work with the Maasai tribe in a remote area of Kenya. We do community-based health care (immunizations, HIV/AIDS counseling, clean water projects). I teach Sunday School, homeschool my own kids, and run a small guest house. My husband was born in Kenya as a missionary kid. All three of our children were also."My update? Well, I finally started a blog (www.Steuryngs.blogspot.com). It's stories of experiences we've had all these years. I just wanted a forum to tell those stories. We put out a prayer letter, and that tells how our ministry is going, and our mission has a page for each of its missionaries, so I didn't want it to be that repeated. I am also starting a Bible study for a gaggle of 'house maids"-- girls about 12-13 years old who kind of get lost in the shuffle of life out here. So that's pretty interesting shuttling back and forth between three languages! I am just starting a book called Abba's Child by Brennan Manning. I'm only on chapter 2, but want to re-read it already!

My Happy Place

2011-01-11T00:00:00.002-07:00

STORY BEHIND THE PHOTO: Picture Praise, 1/10/11

I took this picture so that I could revisit this relaxing spot again and again. I had lovely quiet times down by the beach in ChaAm, Thailand. And when I look at this it refreshes me as I remember that time. There is something about it that also makes me stop and apologize to God for complaining about where I am and what I am doing today... not many would be won to His kingdom if I sat in a quiet spot at the beach all day.

photographer: Charlotte Blanford, Thailand

What's NEW this Week @ WOTH:

*WOTH onlineMagazine: Jan/Feb '11 issue is out! New book, CD, and movie reviews. Books you are reading. Humor from the field. Recipes. Great Articles on being kind, living with your team, making friends in foreign lands...much, much, more.

READ. TAG. ENCOURAGE.

2011-01-04T11:39:00.012-07:00

This week we want to encourage you to go out to one of the blogs listed in the sidebar to the right and tag a recent post with a "Happy New Year!"

Which blog? Try this: Pick one that starts with the letter of your first name.

Something new: we're posting each blogger's current post to peak your curiosity. Community is just a click away. If you would like your blog on Coffeegirl's Community blogroll, please submit it to: editor@womenoftheharvest.com

Receive: Start getting the inspirational Picture Praise sent to your Inbox each Monday morning. It's free.

Submit: If you have a great global photo that would encourage others--1800 subscribers--please submit your photo with a verse (separately) that goes with it to: editor@womenoftheharvest.com

[Editor's Note: This week the photographer of this picture, Lynn, is unable to post her story behind the photo.]

Foretaste of Heaven!

2010-12-28T00:00:00.002-07:00

STORY BEHIND THE PHOTO: Picture Praise, 12/27/10

It was a Sunday afternoon in November 2003. My husband, Jim, and I were driving back home to Nairobi from Tigoni in a tea-growing area just above the city. Even before we rounded the corner, we could hear people singing. Then we saw this colorful cluster of people spread out before us. We stopped the car to watch and just enjoy the public displays of faith in Jesus Christ among a local church congregation. They gathered at a wide place in a river, maybe not too different from where Jesus’ disciples baptized people in the Jordan. We didn’t want to disturb their sacred moment. What a delightful glimpse of the joy, the spiritual life and growth of the Body of Christ in Africa-- a foretaste of Heaven!

photographer: Sue De Vries, Kenya. "We worked with Africa Ministry Resources (now One Challenge) in Kenya until 2006, over 20 years, with a goal of building up the Body of Christ through encouraging and training rural pastors. Like the rich red soil in this photo, Africa has been such fertile soil for the Gospel. We love Africa, and raised our 3 daughters there. All three are now married and missionaries themselves."

All is Bright

2010-12-21T00:00:00.003-07:00

STORY BEHIND THE PHOTO: Picture Praise, 12/20/10

The story behind the picture is - I live and work with orphans in Taraz, Kazakhstan and had actually just moved there May of 2009 when this picture was taken. My director, Beth, was driving to Shymkent about 3 hours away and asked if I would like to see some of the countryside. I had been to Kazakhstan on 7 short- term trips working in the orphans but had never traveled around much.

The day was beautiful with the blue sky and perfect temperature. Beth was so kind as to stop around every bend so I could jump out of the car and capture the magnificant beauty all around. This is one I captured on that trip. A normal 3 hour drive took almost 6 hours. I got many amazing shots that day but this has been my absolute favorite. I hope all enjoy HIS artwork.

photographer: Victoria Charbonneau, Kazakhstan, serves with Interlink Resources, Inc. Visit Victoria @ http://kazakhvictoria.viviti.com.

A Time to Plant

2010-12-14T00:00:00.005-07:00

STORY BEHIND THE PHOTO: Picture Praise, 12/13/10

I am Magdline Walter (Maggi) from Pakistan and am working with Caritas Pakistan Multan. I am involved in animation trainings for poor Massesand, humanitarian aid, and work with the local Catholic Church. I have been here almost 10 years. This photo was taken when I was leading the farmers (male and female) group toward Bio Agricultural Practice (Bio Fermenter system). Iit was an exposure visit to learn how the small farmers manage their lives in limited source. I am the Master Trainer regarding IntegratedPest/Crop Managment as well as environmental issues.

What's NEW this Week @ WOTH:

*What's in your "Fruit of the Spirit" Basket?: Ever struggled with any aspect of Galatians 5:22-23 while serving on the field?

We have a great article in the first issue of 2011, Alight with Kindness, that will launch our encouraging feature to show how God can work in our hearts, first, and then move on to change the world in a very fruity kind of way. Could it really be as simple as showing kindness to a weary world???...find out on January 6 when the next issue comes out!

Sign up today to receive the encouraging, free, bi-monthly onlineMagazine that gets your cross-cultural life.

If some of your fruit is a bit rotten or even completely out-of-season, I'm putting out a CALL FOR ARTICLES to talk about that very issue in the 2011 WOTH onlineMagazine. Submit your articles to: editor@womenoftheharvest.com

Every Knee Shall Bow

2010-12-07T00:00:00.013-07:00

STORY BEHIND THE PHOTO: Picture Praise, 12/6/10

This picture was taken at a school feeding program in a village in Niger, Africa. Our desire is to see not just physical nourishment, but a spiritual nourishment as well. We are starting the second year of this feeding program and have seen registration double as more kids come, and we have seen a huge increase in girls as well who were never allowed to come to school before. We pray one day all these children will kneel before the one true God!

photographer: Chantelle McIver, Niger. Check out Chantelle's blog: www.chroniclesofourjourney.blogspot.com

What's NEW this week @ WOTH:

*Editor's Choice: Read my all-time favorite cross-cultural Christmas story,
A Doggone Christmas, from our WOTH Archive Library. Here are other seasonal stories I've dusted off from past WOTH onlineMagazines that may bring joy to your holiday season:

Christmas at the Bottom of the Well, by Judy Schulz, Burkina Faso Christmas in the bush started with my son falling into a deep well...

Christmas Without the Trimmings, by Pat Estes, USA
What do I do when it doesn't feel like Christmas?

The Christmas Agenda, by Susan Lansing, France
Why am I so blue, in a red and green season?

Poverty at Christmas, by Tina G., West Africa
Baby Jesus came in poverty...he lived a poor man's life.

A Reflection of Him

2010-11-30T08:32:00.002-07:00

STORY BEHIND THE PHOTO: Picture Praise, 11/29/10

I am a nurse at an orphanage in the Philippines. We take babies and young children who are unwanted, abused, or neglected. I am constantly amazed at how the Lord brings little ones handpicked by Himself. We see them come in malnourished with sores or other maladies. He allows us to care for them, love them, feed them, and watch them grow. We are "Jesus" to the little ones as well as to our staff and anyone who walks in our gates. While we love caring for the orphans, our greatest desire is to see they are placed in a Christian family where they can grow up knowing the Lord. We have opportunity to share Jesus with all who enter our compound.

Since I am to "be the hands and feet and voice of Jesus" I find it necessary to have my time alone with my Lord each day. I cannot be a reflection of Him unless I spend time in His presence. This picture was taken on an adjacent island to where I live, during a time of rest. The reflection of the sunset reminded me of how each of us need that time in the presence of God in order to reflect His love and goodness to those He brings our way.

photographer: Karen Tellefson, Philippines

Eat and Be Satisfied

2010-11-23T00:00:00.000-07:00

STORY BEHIND THE PHOTO: Picture Praise, 11/22/10

The poor will eat and be satisfied; they who seek the LORD will praise him.

~Psalm 22:26

This is from a school feeding program in Niger. Over 150 students are fed two hot meals a day. They also receive solid instruction and have access to school books. These children are visibly stronger, fatter and happier than our visits last year as the program was just starting; the health agent says he sees a lot less injuries, cuts and scrapes from the children now. They are all too busy attending school!!

The mothers of the children also get health teaching about how to keep their families healthy and free from illness. We desire to see this village grow holistically and take care of one another and grow in their knowledge and understanding. We pray Jesus would appear to this Muslim village in dreams and visions and make a mark on the heart of these people!

photographer: Chantelle McIver, Niger Visit her at http://www.chroniclesofourjourney.blogspot.com/

What's NEW this Week @ WOTH:

*DOWNLOAD a boat-load of Thanksgiving Treats that would sink even the Mayflower: Debbie Peck, our globally-good WOTH Chef, has put together a Thanksgiving Day package to make it a true celebration of gratitude. Share it with your global neighbors!

Can't See the End

2010-11-16T00:00:00.000-07:00

STORY BEHIND THE PHOTO: Picture Praise, 11/15/10

"I am a South African, working in Bosnia with YWAM. I am involved in English teaching and Humanitarian aid and work with the local Protestant Church. I have been here almost 10 years now. In October, I went on a retreat for single missionaries in England. While I was on the retreat I took this lovely picture. It perfectly summed up how I was feeling: that even though I can't see the end of the road that I am on, I know the one who will be with me and leading me on the way..."

photographer: Belinda Chaplin, Bosnia.

What's NEW this week @ WOTH:

*Ever wonder about the organization behind the initials?: Watch Women of the Harvest's Year End video. We are once again getting the message out to "Value Her [your's!] Voice."

*onlineMagazine: Sarita Holzmann, co- founder and President of Sonlight Curriculum, has a fresh new article, just for WOTH: Will They Learn? The home education dilemma. It's a balanced resource to help you make the important decisions regarding your child's education on the field.

Necessity is Still the Mother...

2010-11-09T00:00:00.001-07:00

STORY BEHIND THE PHOTO:
Picture Praise, 11/08/10

The photo was taken at a workshop for training and evaluating potential literacy teachers, in Tanzania. The lady had to bring her baby along for the week, and managed to work very hard despite the distractions.

photographer: Leila Schroeder, Kenya: “I'm a literacy consultant, and mother to two grown daughters. My husband, a software developer, and I live in Kenya, but we travel a lot. I was a bilingual teacher in the U.S., and God has really used that past experience and training in what He called me to do here in Africa.”

What's NEW this Week @ WOTH:

*WOTH Writer's BLOG: "A Good Story is Hard to Put Down" Contest...write a piece of fiction, submit, and possibly win the first-ever fiction spot in the onlineMagazine. See this week's post for details!

*Weekly Word e-Bible Study: We're studying the gospel of John...get out of the boat (see John 6) and join us. This study will be going on way into 2011. Come, get fed (see also John 6)!

If you'd like to start receiving Weekly Word in your inbox every Wednesday (it's free), go to "My Account" on the website (upper right corner after you've signed in) and check the box.
If you'd like to become a registered user of the WOTH website, go to SIGN ME UP! page.

Peace I Give You

2010-11-02T00:00:00.000-06:00

STORY BEHIND THE PHOTO: Picture Praise, 11/01/10

I took this picture on itineration when I was out on the peninsula of Washington state. I was on a walk with a friend and this scene spoke such peace to my heart. Peace. "Peace I leave with you, My peace I give you." ... Jesus.

photographer: Tammy Swailes, Ukraine

What's NEW this Week @ WOTH:

*WOTH onlineMagazine: NEW! Nov/Dec '10 issue is out.

Holiday-inspired cover story," Love and Lava," erupts with God's message of joy to the world; homeschooling article, "Will They Learn?" from the president of Sonlight Curriculum; Thanksgiving recipes, CDs, movies...and so much more.

Are you getting it? Sign up now.

Sign your friends up to start receiving this gift of encouragement--it's free!

Pudgy Fingers

2010-10-26T12:39:00.005-06:00

STORY BEHIND THE PHOTO: Picture Praise, 10/25/10

This picture I took in November '09. It was the day before I was to leave for a 6 month furlough, and one of "my kids" was sitting on my lap. He was two and I just loved his pudgy fingers and thought to myself, "He'll be all grown up when I come back - no more pudgy fingers!" It made me feel melancholy about having to leave the field (Ukraine) for 6 months and missing out on so many moments in the lives of those I loved. I decided to snap his hand in my hand (discretely, while sitting in church). Then the scripture, "May the Lord richly bless you and your children," Psalm 115:14, came to my heart. Indeed! Let it be!

photographer: Tammy Swailes, Ukraine. "I am a missionary in Eastern Europe working with INSTE Bible College. I live in Ukraine, but travel and work in Hungary, Romania, Spain and France also. I love working with churches, making disciples and training leaders! I also love photography and the stories that can be told in a picture."

Spiritually Nourished

2010-10-19T00:00:00.002-06:00

STORY BEHIND THE PHOTO: Picture Praise, 10/18/10

My husband and I are members of Wycliffe Bible Translators, working as Scripture Promoters in the Andes Mountains of Peru for the past 12 years. After hiking through the mountains for several days, we arrived in the picturesque village of Quitaracsa, beautifully situated in a fertile valley below the mountains. Although the Quechua people had abundant crops and healthy herds of animals, the children all showed signs of neglect and malnutrition.

Apparently the villagers were selling the best of the crops and animals in a market several days' walk away in order to make a small amount of money so they could buy staples that could not be grown in their own fields. In a like manner, these Quechua people were neglected and malnourished spiritually, for until recently, they only had access to God's Word in Spanish, a language that none of them spoke from their hearts. What a joy it was for us to have the privilege of hiking into that village with New Testaments and beautifully illustrated Bible story books in the heart language of these little boys and their families.

photographer: Rachel Yanac, Peru.

Sheltering Strength

2010-10-12T00:00:00.000-06:00

STORY BEHIND THE PHOTO: Picture Praise, 10/11/10

The picture I sent in was taken at Cesky Sternberk, in the Czech Republic which is a castle which was built in 1241 near Sazava, Czech Republic. The massive walls and huge doors and gates up at the castle are amazing to me as they were constructed so long ago without the aid of modern construction tools.

photographer: Dora Becker, Czech Republic. "My husband and I, along with our five children, have lived and worked in the Czech Republic for the last 13 years. We just left our first church plant in the hands of a national pastor last January and are moving into a larger part of our work being with the Roma (gypsy) people in the Czech Republic, as well as in Slovakia, Hungary and trans-Carpathian Ukraine. This people group has a heritage of traveling which stems from the racial discrimination they suffer. Working with them brings many joys and challenges. We seek to serve them in practical ways such as finding housing, helping with heating in the winter, teaching basic health skills and we are planning on teaching them skills and loaning them tools needed to start micro-businesses so they can earn their own income, especially the young mothers who are often left alone with their children without a source of income. God is moving in the hearts of these people and drawing them to Himself in such tender ways and we are excited to join Him in what He is doing!"

Ancient Gate

2010-10-05T00:00:00.001-06:00

STORY BEHIND THE PHOTO: Picture Praise, 10/04/10

We’ve been living and working in southwestern China for over four years, and the more I get to know about the dominant cultural worldview—the rhythms of life, the foundational beliefs that govern how people live out their daily lives—the more my heart breaks. In a culture where saving face is prized above all, where work takes priority over family relationships, and where people (including children) are valued primarily for their academic achievements or outward behavior and success (not for their intrinsic worth as individuals created in the image of God), people’s hearts are isolated, lonely and oppressed. We so long to see some of these “ancient doors”—closed doors within the cultural worldview, even within the church—fling wide open! To see the King of glory enter in, bringing His transforming Kingdom with Him—that is what we pray for earnestly.

photographer: R.H. "Our primary focus is to walk alongside the local registered Body of Christ and help encourage, equip and disciple leaders to better minister to their flocks and communities in the areas of biblical worldview and holistic outreach.

Delicious Waterfall

2010-09-28T08:47:00.005-06:00

STORY BEHIND THE PHOTO: Picture Praise, 9/27/10

We live in a desert, hot, dry, and dusty. The people around us are in a spiritual desert as well, and have just come off a journey of fasting in search of God. On a recent break to another country we came across this delicious waterfall, a reminder that Jesus is the Living Water. He is refreshing, life-giving.

photographer: Erika, West Asia

What's NEW this Week @ WOTH:

*10,000 Charms Contest ends on Friday: Submit one friend's name to start receiving the WOTH onlineMagazine and get entered to win a KINDLE DX to be given away on 10.10.10. (October 10, 2010). DO it NOW (or by OCTOBER 1!). Go here for all the details---takes a minute to do: 10,000 Charms Contest sign-up.

Children of the Needy

2010-09-21T10:23:00.004-06:00

STORY BEHIND THE PHOTO: Picture Praise, 9/20/10

The story behind this photo was a medical visit to a very poor home. This little boy came and sat near us playing with his brother. His grandmother kept shooing him off her lap since she was busy talking with us about a problem her daughter had. He and his brother were enjoying sitting in the warmth of the sunshine in the window when I took this picture. The spring had been very cold and people were running out of fuel and food, so any warmth was thoroughly enjoyed.

photographer: anonymous, Afghanistan.

The God Who Sees Me

2010-09-14T10:54:00.007-06:00

STORY BEHIND THE PHOTO: Picture Praise, 9/13/10

She gave this name to the LORD who spoke to her:
"You are the God who sees me..."

~Genesis 16:13

We love sharing the story of Hagar with the women we serve for this very reason- He sees them and delights in them- even though their society tells them they should be ashamed of being seen!

photographer: A.R.,RAC

Nearing Eternity

2010-09-07T00:00:00.001-06:00

STORY BEHIND THE PHOTO: Picture Praise, 9/6/10

The lady in this photo was standing across a steeply-sloped street in a small mountain town in southern Ecuador, high in the Andes Mountains. We were there with a small medical team holding mobile clinics in more remote villages, as a means of sharing the gospel. Many receive medical care, but even more hear the gospel. Seeing this lady reminds me that Christ died for people of all ages, and some of these are nearing eternity. In this particular village there is sadly no church that preaches salvation by grace alone, which demonstrates the shortage of long-term missionaries in so many areas of the world.

photographer: Joy Anglea, M.D. – organizes short-term medical mission teams to various parts of the world, from her home base in Cleveland, OH.

What's NEW this Week @ WOTH:

*Weekly Word e-Bible Study: New series on the gospel of John, written by Donna Jeffries (past studies for WOTH: Romans, Nehemiah), starts this week...get signed up to start receiving it. It's free.

Isaiah 58:10: In Behalf of the Hungry

2010-08-31T00:00:00.001-06:00

STORY BEHIND THE PHOTO: Picture Praise, 8/30/10

There is a school feeding program in a little village in Niger. This part of the country is rocked by famine and malnutrition numbers are staggering. The children who attend this school walk as far as 5km to get there and often arrive hungry. Knowing there is food at school has seen enrollment double in the school, with even numbers of boys and girls. With full bellies (this is their morning porridge being served) they are able to learn and grow!

photographer: Chantelle McIver, Niger. "Check out our blog at www.chroniclesofourjourney.blogspot.com"

What's NEW this Week @ WOTH:

*NEW ISSUE of the onlineMagazine: Comes out on Thursday, September 2! Sign your friends up during our 10,000 Charms Contest and be entered to win a Brighton Charm Bracelet and/or our grand prize, a Kindle DX!

No Eye Has Seen

2010-08-24T00:00:00.002-06:00

STORY BEHIND THE PHOTO: Picture Praise, 8/23/10

Meet Bredi. I found this adorable little boy joyfully running around in a village without a speck of clothing. This village has been created to teach about one of the many tribes in Namibia. While there are many real villages like this one scattered about the country, this was a unique opportunity to walk through the life and history of the Damara people. They welcomed us with song and dance and tried to teach us some of their craft making and hunting skills.

Photographer: Hannah Sterling, Namibia.

A round of applause for a great run of photos (last 3) from Hannah! Send in your global shots, along with an accompanying verse (not on the photo) to: editor@womenoftheharvest.com.

Picture Praise receives rave reviews and is being used globally for worship services. We love that! ~Cindy, Editor

River of Transformation

2010-08-17T00:00:00.003-06:00

STORY BEHIND THE PHOTO: Picture Praise, 8/16/10

After an incredible Transformational Development workshop, our minds and hearts were filled with new ideas and challenges. The group concluded our time together by taking a boat ride along the Okavango River. All was quiet and still as the sun set and we began to process what we had learned. My prayer: God, teach me how to give in such a way that positively transforms, without hindering, the Namibian people.

photographer: Hannah Sterling, Namibia. "I have been living in Namibia for over a year and enjoy spending as much time as I can with the children in the community. I mostly work with orphans and vulnerable children on an educational level but also give psychosocial support and help to build their self-confidence through creative writing and other avenues." http://hannahsterling.blogspot.com

What's NEW @ WOTH this Week:

* WOTH Writer's Blog: 2 Contests converge this week: Are you a winner of Robin Jones Gunn's newest book, Under a Maui Moon? Are you the winner of the "Write a Memoir" Contest? ONLY IF YOU ENTERED!!!!

You Who Hunger

2010-08-10T00:00:00.001-06:00

STORY BEHIND THE PHOTO: Picture Praise, 8/09/10

I work with orphans and vulnerable children in the township outside the capital city of Namibia. This little girl came to our center one day with her big brother. She would watch him as he played with the other kids and I could tell she wanted to join in the fun. When I look at all of these precious children, I hope for them a very bright future. Often, the first step in that direction is getting them to also have that hope within themselves.

Be Colorful

2010-08-03T00:00:00.001-06:00

STORY BEHIND THE PHOTO: Picture Praise, 08/02/10

While Trujillo (where I live) is a beach town on the Pacific Coast, I also work in the mountain town of Cajamarca. My job is to wear many hats, one of which is Short Term Team Coordinator. I coordinate all of our teams that come to visit from the states. This photo was taken while I was in Cajamarca with a team of medical doctors. We were actually doing some "sightseeing" after a full day in a medical clinic and had just finished a hike through Cumbe Mayo when we came out by this house and I saw this lady walking by. She is on her way to tend to her one cow that was on a nearby hillside. I like the contrast of her bright and colorful dress next to the dullness of the home. It is a reminded me that as women, we always like to look our best . . . no matter where we are, we are really the same kind of different.

photographer: Alleen Mclain. "I serve in Trujillo, Peru working with Peru Mission (see www.perumission.org)."

What's NEW this Week at WOTH:

*Robin Jones Gunn, author of the Sisterchicks books, is in the house! Drop by the WOTH Writer's Blog and read her post today (8/3) . She'll be with us for two weeks and would love to meet you ~ really!

Psalm 139:17

2010-07-27T00:00:00.004-06:00

STORY BEHIND THE PHOTO: Picture Praise, 07/26/10

This picture was taken in Poipet, Cambodia (on the border of Thailand) when a teammate and I went out to chat with people and take some photos late one afternoon in a slum area of the city. Lots of children came around, as they often do, and loved our cameras and the fact that we were able to communicate with them.

I had never met this little girl before, but her quiet and sweet nature made for a photo that captured her personality perfectly. Her little red bracelet (ties with Buddhism) reminds me of how we have a Father who knows us intimately-- when we are young and old-- and when we have not yet even heard His name! Thank you, Jesus.

photographer: Gretchen Zens

What's NEW this week @ WOTH:

*Contests!!!!-- Enter the "Memoir-writing Challenge" @ the WOTH Writer's Blog : win a $15 iTunes card and get published in the WOTH onlineMagazine.

*Contests!!!!-- Enter the "10,000 Charms Contest" just by signing up ONE friend who is not receiving the free, encouraging, and award-winning onlineMagazine. Go here for details and get entered to win a Brighton Charm Bracelet and/or a KINDLE DX!!!

Enter the 10,000 Charms Contest!

2010-07-19T17:56:00.005-06:00

With every 1,000 new Charms (subscribers) added, we'll give away a Brighton Bracelet: prize includes bracelet with one Charm(s) = $50.00 value

The Grand Prize will be a drawing of all contestants on 10-10-10 for a Kindle DX!

Click Here for details on entering this fun and easy contest!

Hospitality for Introverts

2010-07-13T00:00:00.001-06:00

A continuation of Carol B. Ghattas article: "Accessing God Through Hospitality," July/August '10 onlineMagazine.

I am an introvert who lives with an extrovert. People are part of our life, and I have had to adjust or die! Each country we lived in had its uniqueness:
1. We lived in an apartment on the 4th floor. Sometimes we just did not answer the door! Use that peep hole; it's there for a reason.
2. We had a house that was a typical American ranch layout with lots of windows. If a person didn't find you at the front door, they would walk around the house until they saw you through a window--even the bedroom ones! We could never hide.
3. In another country we had more privacy, but people felt more at home with us there and came over a lot, so our place was very busy.
4. In our last country of service, life was somewhat slower and visitors usually came with an invitation or warning. I cooked the least in this country.
5. In the USA, even I am longing for visitors!!

So, how did I adjust in this people-friendly environment? God has taught me a lot about stepping out of my comfort zone while at the same time offering opportunities of quietness and renewal. Perhaps He will use some of the following to help those of you like myself to see your potential even in hospitality.

1. I allowed my husband to visit alone with male only visitors. This gave me time alone too. Of course, this was after I served coffee and cake. As a woman, I was not expected to stay in the room.
2. I gave myself the opportunity to go in and out of the room during a visit. Many times this was to check on the children or food, but it allowed me a breather from conversation and people.
3. I stopped worrying about time.
4. I allowed myself to have a ministry of interruptions and to look for God in them.
5. I did not feel obligated to have someone come in, if I did not have to. There are some people that came too often and for no intended purpose. Many times I just talked to them at the gate or door and did not offer to let them in.
6. I gradually extended my limits--it comes with time an practice.
7. I made time for down time. Make sure your extrovert husband understands this need. This hit especially hard after children.

If you are a single introvert, it is important to find an extroverted ministry partner to help you get out of your comfort zone. When I served as a single on the mission field, one of the ways I did hospitality best was to have planned events. This works well but does not always allow you to practice hospitality with the stranger. Having an extroverted roommate will open up your world and allow you to connect with the non-scheduled guest. Be prepared for challenges, however, and then refer to the above list for helps!

God has chosen people to share with people the Good News of Jesus Christ. While I would prefer handing someone a book, I need to stretch my wings and allow the stranger into my life for the sake of the Gospel. God can use you, Introvert! Take heart!

What's NEW this week @ WOTH:

*onlineMagazine: July/August '10 issue is out! Submit a favorite recipe and be entered to win a cookbook that works in most global kitchens, O Taste & See Some More!, by Debbie Peck. Details are in the sidebar of Globally Good Recipes.

*10,000 CHARMS Contest: WIN a KINDLE DX! WIN a Brighton Charm Bracelet! Let's add 10,000 more readers/subscribers to receive the free WOTH onlineMagazine and get you entered into our fab contest in the process. It's easy. Click for contest details!!!!!!

To Cook or Not to Cook! That is the Question.

2010-07-06T00:00:00.001-06:00

A continuation of Carol B. Ghattas article: "Accessing God Through Hospitality," July/August '10 onlineMagazine.

When we got married, I joked about how my cooking ministry began. I can cook, but have always relied on recipes to guide me, and I would much rather be sitting behind a computer writing. So, there has always been a kind of struggle in me about hosting. Thankfully, I have a husband who does not put much importance in food. Together we have developed some guidelines about how we will host others.

I have had every scenario happen in my life overseas in relation to cooking:

1. I cooked a big meal -- the guests didn't eat! They had eaten before they came.

2. I cooked a big buffet meal for seminary grads -- they walked around the table evaluating whether or not to eat. They heard American food was terrible. Finally, after one was tempted by how the others liked the food, he tried it. He ended up sitting at the table and ate three plates full.

3. I've cooked a meal and the guest could not swallow it! It didn't matter what I cooked; she couldn't eat it!

4. I've provided any kind of food and they will eat it!

5. Without cooking, they come and open the frig themselves.

When it comes to food, these are my guidelines:

1. Occasionally I have to fix a meal to entertain an important guest (i.e. the landlord). These are purely social occasions, and we don't put much value in them. Keep them to a minimum.

2. If our purpose is to share the gospel or have some real quality time with someone, we serve only coffee cake/cookies. A big meal can get in the way and limit the time we have to talk. We also use this in the reverse. If we want to go to visit someone, we make sure they do not fix a meal, but only have cake and coffee. (It doesn't always work, but we try).

3. When the believers were meeting in our home, I did not cook for them unless it was necessary. We did not want them to get into the habit of someone cooking for them. We served only cookies and coffee. We also did not want them to think they had to cook if they hosted church in their home.

4. We take time to share with people that food is not the important thing in the visit, but the conversation and time together. This helps to put them at ease about our custom.

5. If I know that people are very picky about food (like the Lebanese), then I never cook for them. We take them to a restaurant or order food. Why kill yourself, if they are not going to be happy?

Food can bring people together, but it can also distract them from quality conversation (remember Martha). As you adjust to your host culture, work on developing a "third" way to blend your ways and theirs to make Jesus evident in your culinary offerings.

[next week's Hospitality topic: Hospitality for Introverts.]

Author bio: Carol Ghattas has served with her husband, Raouf, for 20 years in ministry to Muslims in the Middle East and North Africa. They have just recently returned to the USA, where they will continue to train others in how to share with Muslims both here and abroad. They have co-authored a book entitled, A Christian Guide to the Qur'an: Building Bridges in Muslim Evangelism (Kregel, 2009). Carol has also authored three novels under the pen name of Um Daoud. Two Sides of a Coin: An Egyptian Story has just been released by Xulon Press, and gives an inside look at the complicated society of Egypt. She has been guest host for the WOTH Writer’s Blog (Jan.19-Feb.16).

Red Ochre

2010-06-29T00:00:00.001-06:00

STORY BEHIND THE PHOTO: Picture Praise, 06/28/10

My daughter had made friends with a young Maasai lady who was blind. We were invited to her village for a meal. It was a fun day, but also very humbling as they gave us one of their precious goats. They had a thank- you gathering for us, because we sponsor Margaret, the blind girl, in school. They usually put the red ochre on for special occasions like weddings, but this day everyone had it one for US! Sooo humbling!

Hidden Flower

2010-06-22T00:00:00.002-06:00

STORY BEHIND THE PHOTO: Picture Praise, 6/20/10

I was out walking one morning enjoying the cool air after a brief rain storm. I came around the corner and ran into a group of young girls just returning from washing their clothes in the nearby marsh water. Many of them were excited to see me and jump around and they all wanted their picture taken.

But this young girl shied back. She smiled timidly and when I began to talk with her, her eyes shone with joy. She was the hidden flower amongst all the other children who were anxious for attention. Eventually they went their way and I went mine, but her face is still in my mind, and thankfully my camera!

photographer: Chantelle McIver, Niamey, Niger

On the Prowl

2010-06-15T00:00:00.001-06:00

STORY BEHIND THE PHOTO: Picture Praise, 6/14/10

We were in Maasai Mara Game Park which is near where we live. This lioness was very close, as she was stalking a herd of buffalo just on the other side of our vehicle. So she was about 15 to 20 feet from our vehicle when I took the shot. We watched her come through the tall grass. The next shot on my camera is of her passing just behind our vehicle. It was taken by a Canon Powershot S5 IS. (focal length 72mm). I remembered it striking me as just menacing. Thankfully, I was not out of the vehicle.

On this trip, my daughter's almost-fiance was with us. He had traveled to Kenya from the U.S. to ask us if he could marry our daughter. He was on top of the Landrover...it has an open hatch and when the lioness came so close, my daughter was telling him that she strongly suggested him getting back inside! (He did ask her to marry him on that trip.)

Photographer: Vera Steury. "My husband and I have been in Kenya now for 24 years. We work with the Maasai tribe in a remote area of Kenya. We do community-based health care (immunizations, HIV/AIDS counseling, clean water projects). I teach Sunday school, and my own kids and run a small guest house. My husband was born in Kenya as a missionary kid; all three of our children were also. "

For the Hungry: Body, Mind & Soul

2010-06-08T00:00:00.008-06:00

STORY BEHIND THE PHOTO: Picture Praise, 6/7/10

We run a Grain Aid program in Niger, the poorest country in the world where there is also currently a famine. A woman came to pick up her husband's ration of oil, milk and millet and she was taking a little bit out of the grain to see its quality. I was struck by the beauty of her painted hands with the grain in the middle!

photographer: Chantelle McIver, Niamey, Niger, www.chroniclesofourjourney.blogspot.com.

What's NEW this week @ WOTH:

*Circle of Encouragement: Encouraging You to Encourage Others

We are celebrating 5 Years of the onlineMagazine with a HIGH FIVE: We have 5 gifts waiting for you!

And if you'd like, we have an opportunity for you to keep the ministry strong with this annual campaign of paying it forward...

*Weekly Word: Just started a new study on June 2 : James/Jude.

*Book Club Blog: Just started a new book this week: Gilead.

2010-06-01T08:48:00.005-06:00

STORY BEHIND THE PHOTO: Picture Praise, 6/01/10

This is a small part of how God is healing the sick and how the gospel is being told in a RAC.

As a nurse, I go up to small mountain villages giving disabled children and adults physical therapy. I teach them and their families to do what they can rather than what they can’t do, to help with their daily activities. Together, we find tools and equipment in their local area. My daily thoughts go something like this:

How can I best help this mother and her child who has Cerebral Palsy? I could give him a wheelchair, but there is no room to put it on the side of a mountain. If we make a ramp for it, where would we get the cement? Can the house be remodeled for wheelchair access? Maybe not, I am told that if we take out the large beam in the doorway, the whole house would fall down. The child is getting heavier as he gets older, the mother is cheerfully willing to carry him on her back, but agrees that he needs something.

I pray for new ideas, and try to involve the family in any decision-making. At times, we have brought in used baby car seats from Canada, and have made some specialized seats from local bamboo. I show the parents and the caregiver who I am training, how to give the new exercises, draw pictures for them to follow, and have them show me back that they understand them. This is often done in three languages with two interpreters. They are so happy to have the help. We sit on low stools and have a prayer of thanks to the Lord. They know He loves them and are so grateful.

They usually want to prepare a meal for us before we go back down the mountain. But we don’t want to take their chicken, and say we have to go. Instead, they fill our pockets to overflowing with dried sunflower seeds and we keep saying “enough”! I think of that song “A Pocketful of Miracles,” knowing we have touched many lives today with the Love of God. We get back down the windy mountain trail, tired, our knees wobbling, so thankful to Him for this wonderful opportunity!

photographer: Lynn, RAC

Marco? : Polo!

2010-05-25T00:00:00.000-06:00

STORY BEHIND THE PHOTO: Picture Praise, 5/24/10

This shot was taken on the Marco Polo Bridge outside of Beijing, China. The bridge is famous because Marco Polo mentions it in his 12th century diary. Hundreds of carved stone lions from different Chinese dynasties line both sides of the bridge. I saw this precious little girl standing behind the rope barrier walking along the bridge. As I snapped the photo, I thought, "What a contrast between ancient and modern China!"

photographer: Nancy Todd. "My husband, Terry, and I are staff members of Barnabas International, and we travel in Asia, Central Asia, and Africa where we encourage global servants. Photography is a passionate hobby of mine, and my husband is a writer."

What's NEW this week @ WOTH:

*Picture Praise: Start receiving Picture Praise, your weekly dose of encouragment, every Monday via email. It's Free! Click on this link and get signed up! We need your global photos too! Submit an attachment of your gorgeous 300 dpi photo and enclose your inspirational verse separately in your email. If chosen, we'll contact you for your "STORY BEHIND THE PHOTO"!

*HOPE of the Harvest: Have you watched the NEW! HOPE of the Harvest video (sidebar)?

It is a discipleship program disguised as Microenterprise. It's a great way to enter into the lives of the women you serve. Check it out!

What's Brewing: The Coffeebean

2010-05-18T00:00:00.003-06:00

Editor's Note: this is not the Picture Praise photo. But there is a "STORY BEHIND THE PHOTO."

For those of you who have been coming to this blog since Coffeegirl was offering her fresh brew, you know that she "retired" because she was going to have a baby.

Guess who came for a visit? Little Miss Coffeebean and her mommy.

For me, it was a happy moment worthy of my own "Picture Praise." (That's me with Coffeebean.) It was our first time to meet. She looked fabulous in her soft coffee-brown shirt with pink pants, pink hairband, and little pink shoes that kept falling off. So deliciously cute.

Oh, her mom sends greetings to you all. It was so good to see you, Coffeegirl, and drink in your sweet little girl! --Cindy, WOTH Editor

Art Brings Life!

2010-05-11T00:00:00.008-06:00

STORY BEHIND THE PHOTO: Picture Praise, 5/10/10

I teach art in the prisons in Thailand and take a lot of photos so that I have source material. A young man from a prison in Thailand painted a painting of this boat picture. The painting is a little stormier than the photo, but then his life has been stormier too. When he first came into my class he showed no emotion on his face at all. Now, after one of the other students befriended him and led him to Christ he has a sweet, shy smile as the love of God shines through.You never can tell where the Spirit is working!

photographer: Charlotte Blanford. "My husband and I have worked with the Christian Prison Ministry here in Thailand for almost 6 years now. We are long term self-supporting volunteers.I teach Art in prison, both men's and women's. It all started because of a mural I painted on the wall at language school, and a prison warden happened to see it...."

What's NEW this week @WOTH:

*WOTH Book Club Blog: The next book selection, Gilead, and its lively discussion starts on Monday, June 7! Be a part of this fun and stimulating conversation!

He Leads Me Beside...

2010-05-04T00:00:00.008-06:00

STORY BEHIND THE PHOTO: Picture Praise, 05/03/10

I took this photo because it was so sweet; but looking at it, God reminds me that He gently leads us in new paths. Never in my wildest dreams did this stay-at-home soccer mom (now grandmother) ever possibly think I would end up teaching art in prisons in Thailand--my degree is in Nursing! I didn't come here with this in mind, not really trained in this; but I have seen God move in mighty ways! Drug lords and gang leaders have changed lives, changed behavior and softened hearts as Art has opened up the door to receiving new life in Jesus.

photographer: Charlotte Blanford. "My husband and I have worked with the Christian Prison Ministry here in Thailand for almost 6 years now. We are long-term, self-supporting volunteers. I teach Art in prison, both men's and women's. It all started because of a mural I painted on the wall at language school and a prison warden happened to see it...."

What's NEW this week @ WOTH:

*onlineMagazine: the NEW May/June '10 issue goes out TODAY! It's a must-read if you are struggling with contentment, guilt, feeling deprived, muddy shoes, and writing your monthly newsletter. Plus, there are great recipes, current book/music/movie listings.

Meet Your New Sister

2010-04-27T00:00:00.005-06:00

STORY BEHIND THE PHOTO: Picture Praise, 4/26/10

This picture was taken earlier this year in India. I was there for about a month and one of those weeks we held tent meetings. The first night of the meeting competed with a Hindu holiday celebrating Lord Shiva and the change of the seasons. It broke my heart to see the mass of people on the riverbank, wading into the cold, polluted water believing that they could wash their sins away. Our meeting was set up within 5, maybe 10, miles from there proclaiming the Truth that only Jesus can cleanse us of sin. Needless to say our meeting was not well attended that night. This picture was taken the third day of the meetings. Praise the Lord, that day we had a crowd of about 800 with 65 receiving Christ as their Savior. This precious woman is now a sister in Christ! A true miracle in a place of such spiritual darkness. Gory be to God, Amen.

photographer: Pam Campbell, India

What's NEW @ WOTH:

*onlineMagazine: Do stateside people think you lead a 'romantic' cross-cultural life? Well, shoo away the cockroaches, click through on the link and commiserate with your in-country colleague --"Dinner at Eight: Serving Cross-cultural Fare with a Side of Reality."

Mothers : Daughters

2010-04-20T00:00:00.003-06:00

STORY BEHIND THE PHOTO: Picture Praise, 4/19/10

One can readily imagine the attentive face of this little girl as she listens to the instructions of her mother. As I walked by and saw this mother and daughter outside their home in a village in Veracruz, Mexico, I couldn't help but get more than a little choked up. I have experienced seeing this same upturned look from each of my 5 children when they were small and I was a young mother instructing them. The little girls just love to imitate...even as young as 2 years-old, they are patting out tortillas, just like mommy!

photographer: Denise Aulie, working amongst the indigenous Nahuatl in Mexico. "Sometimes I make cards of [my] photos with verses on them. I have liked that for sending to people who pray for us, and sometimes I have even received a request for my photos which has surprised me to say the least. I guess we all have a 'creative' side - - mine seems to be photography and I am grateful to the Lord for any opportunity to honor Him this way. I give all my photos away to anyone I take a picture of and most to people who will never have the opportunity to own a camera let alone the opportunity to develop their own pictures. What a privilege to be able to even do this. Photography has opened, literally opened, doors of friendship and ministry for me."

Honoring "The Ancients"

2010-04-13T00:00:00.004-06:00

STORY BEHIND THE PHOTO: Picture Praise, 4/12/10

In the high mountains of Veracruz, Mexico, the elderly are valued as sources of care, of warmth and of wisdom. When I went into the cooking hut, this older woman was just reaching to get a cold tamale as the fire had long since gone out. She sat down and stared, almost as if it just took too much energy to unwrap it -- that is when I took this picture. I have a special place in my heart for the elderly, knowing that very soon they will encounter eternity and the Lord. Some of my best friendships and memories have been with "the ancients" as they are called -- dear people who despite all their beautiful wrinkles, continue to be absolutely young in spirit and in heart.

photographer: Denise Aulie, working amongst the indigenous Nahuatl in Mexico. "Sometimes I make cards of [my] photos with verses on them. I have liked that for sending to people who pray for us, and sometimes I have even received a request for my photos which has surprised me to say the least. I guess we all have a 'creative' side - - mine seems to be photography and I am grateful to the Lord for any opportunity to honor Him this way. I give all my photos away to anyone I take a picture of and most to people who will never have the opportunity to own a camera let alone the opportunity to develop their own pictures. What a privilege to be able to even do this. Photography has opened, literally opened, doors of friendship and ministry for me."

Who Can Stand, Read or Write? YOU.

2010-04-06T00:00:00.003-06:00

STORY BEHIND THE PHOTO: Picture Praise, 4/5/10

My husband took this one. (Of course. :-) After not having seen the sun much for a while, we went out to see the sun set. That's me on the ice with our two older children. The frozen body of water is what everyone around here calls "the sea," although it's really not a sea. It's a huge reservoir where the Dnepr River has been dammed up. This "sea" is the biggest physical blessing of life here for me! I love how beautiful it is, all the different colors I see in and around it, and swimming there during the incredibly hot summers. Before Ukraine, we lived in Russia, and that's where our hearts still are. When I start wanting to complain about having to be here, I thank God for "my sea."

Photo submitted by: Phyllis Hunsucker, Ukraine

What's NEW this week @ WOTH:

* WOTH Book Club Blog has just launched with Cries of the Heart, by Ravi Zacharias! Venture to the blog and join in! Linda Swanson, our moderator, has chosen the next book for the summer months too.

*Read a funny, snarky piece on Newsletters: The Top 10 Pet Peeves. Are you guilty of committing any? Find out how NOT to write a boring newsletter @ WOTH Writer's Blog.

Creating Community for YOU!

2010-03-30T00:00:00.005-06:00

What's NEW @ WOTH:

*Book Club BLOG:

Starts next Monday, April 5!
Get the book: Cries of the Heart, by Ravi Zacharias (discounted @ the blogspot).
Join us with our expert moderator, Linda Swanson.

Go to the WOTH Book Club blog for all the details!

THE STORY BEHIND THE PHOTO: Picture Praise, 3/29/10

I took the picture at the dedication of a new church building in the interior of Kalimantan (Indonesian Borneo). Watching these women do a joyful traditional dance, I thought of the sacrifices of the missionaries who came sixties year before, bringing the gospel to this unreached people, and how I was able to witness the fruit of their labor. The Dayak community of believers, now fully self-supported, is continuing the work of the pioneer missionaries started.

Photographer: Natalie Holsten. My husband and I are with Mission Aviation Fellowship and have been in Indonesia since 2001.

Good for Your Soul: List 5 Things

2010-03-23T00:00:00.000-06:00

Could you list 5 things that are good for your soul? In the current issue of the WOTH onlineMagazine, author Shelley Merritt listed 23 in her article, "Good for the Soul."

Here's an excerpt:

Several winters ago, we had a new puppy named Cisco. He of course needed to be taken outside every couple of hours, regardless of the weather. I remember taking that cute bundle of black fur out to our backyard at night. It was so very cold! I remember my feet crunching on the icy snow, Cisco gingerly exploring the ground, sniffing here and there. I remember every night looking up at the myriad of stars above—for some reason, the stars always seem extra bright and clear on cold winter nights. I remember feeling the frigid air fill my lungs and then seeing my breath vapor, white in the black night. It was so still, so quiet. Somehow the greatness and nearness of God seemed to be in the very air about me.

I remember thinking, This is good for the soul.

What's good for your soul? In the comment section, let's get to know one another better and list 5 things that are good for your soul in the place you are living now...

STORY BEHIND THE PHOTO: Picture Praise, 3/22/10

I went to Canada on a youth group trip. Every year, they shove 30-40 people on a Greyhound bus, and we drive all day, all night, and all through the next day—with a couple gas station stops and one stop at the Edmonton Mall. Once we got to the camp, everyone shared their testimonies and were challenged in their faith, physically or mentally.

There were two things that God pointed out to me on this trip. The first was that I have friends. I had never really ever connected in a youth group; so, going on a nine-day trip with people I didn’t know every well was a step out of my box. And the second thing that God showed me while I was in Canada was that through the Rocky Mountains, through the simple beauty of a flower or through the crystal aquamarine color of the sun setting over huge basin of glacier water, He showed me the true deep love He has for each and every one of us. On the way back, we stopped in Banff National Park at Lake Louise. This is one of the most beautiful sights I had ever seen and I truly felt God’s love there, with all the beauty standing before me.

Photographer: Kelsey Lane, 15 year-old student from Littleton, Colorado.

Haiti: the Story Behind the Photo

2010-03-16T00:00:00.000-06:00

Haiti will forever be a part of my life now. Living in Honduras, I started out on the trek to Haiti after the earthquake. Upon arrival in Port-au-Prince, the first thing that hit me was the sea of humanity. This little town held 4 million people. Keeping things in perspective, I am living in a country of 7 million people (so over half of the population of Honduras would be residing in the city of Port-au-Prince). We drove to our camp site, Quisqueya Christian School (QCS). We immediately found a spot on the grass, set up our tents, and got to the business of preparing ourselves for the task ahead of us.

Our first few days found us in the Diquini Refugee Camp of about 30,000 people. We worked alongside Haitian doctors and nurses. Collectively, we saw about 150 people the first two days. A Haitian physician asked our team leader if we would consider going over to the hospital to work. Our team, consisting of 4 MD’s, 4 RN’s, a Nurse Practitioner, engineers, a dentist, and various other skilled individuals, agreed. We packed up our things at QCS and brought all of our medications, supplies, tents, etc. to our new home for the week—the upstairs’ floor of the hospital.

Diquini Adventist Hospital had been built in the 70’s, but had been out of use for the past decade. Doctors from France discovered that the hospital had a few operating room suites; so it seemed like an ideal location and re-opened it right after the earthquake. Because it had been closed for so long, the patient rooms were not usable; there were few supplies and no medications.

Our first day there was indicative of what was to come. We arrived on our shift (a 16- hour night shift) and within the first 10 minutes a woman arrived and collapsed on the floor. We attended to her medically for about 45 minutes, but she passed away. About an hour later, another baby that had been delivered to a very sick mother was in respiratory distress; we worked on that baby for about an hour before we were able to get her transported to the U.S.S. Comfort, where we later learned she passed away. A few hours later, we tried unsuccessfully to resuscitate another baby. Then, another man with severe tuberculosis came in needing to be intubated and transported to a military camp.

Finally, at the end of my shift, while the physicians and nurses were in a morning devotional, a woman came in to the hospital in active labor. I was the only medical person on hand, and within 10 minutes I delivered her baby on the floor of the hospital on a mat. My eyes were opened to what this all meant.

This was desperate.

We barely had the supplies and medication we needed, but certainly not the number of staff that this situation required. However, God had placed us here at this time, in this place, and we would do the best that we could—and we did! We were able to pray and offer comfort to so many people: people lying on mats on the floor because there were no beds, people who should have been in ICU’s, people that were dying, people that came in dead.

Yet, this was not the only hospital that found itself in similar circumstances. This was the same scene in hospitals all around Port-au-Prince. We also saw people who were in mental distress. One young mother had lost three sisters, two brothers, her mother, her father, and her husband. She was left caring for her 14 year-old, her 8 year-old, and her 3 month-old baby. The vacant expression on her face showed her loss of hope. (She is the one featured in my photo for this week’s Picture Praise.) The only hope that she and all of Port-au-Prince has, is to find the hope that can be found only in Jesus Christ.

As we flew out of Haiti, I looked down on the city that is forever changed. I looked down with wonder at how this city, this country could EVER recover. I kept coming back to one thing: Only through Jesus Christ will this country find its hope again and only with His loving grace will they understand that He is the only one who gives life.

Photographer: “My name is Erin Pettengill, and my family and I have been full-time missionaries in Honduras for almost 2 years now. I’m am a registered nurse, my husband is a church planter, and my 13 year-old daughter helps with our ministry and attends a bilingual school in town.”

Launching WOTH Book Club Blog!

2010-03-09T00:00:00.007-07:00

Something New for You: Women of the Harvest will be launching another blog on Monday, April 5--The WOTH Book Club.

The WOTH Book Club Blog will be a place of community where women serving cross-culturally will gather to read and discuss great books--fiction and non-fiction, Christian and secular--with other cross-cultural women. Participants will be exposed to new authors, stories and concepts while reading writers who think like us and others who may disagree with us. Readers will be challenged to think, consider, and find words to respond to new thoughts, disagreeable conclusions, and age old dilemmas staged in new scenes. There will be content to wrestle with, to laugh about, to ponder, and hopefully, growth in understanding the world around us and how God would have us respond to it.

Linda Swanson will be our host and moderator.

Linda served as a cross-cultural worker for 28 years with MAF, both overseas and at headquarters. During eight of those years, she helped direct Fairhaven Ministries, a retreat center for pastors and workers. Now, Linda serves as Executive Assistant to the President and Coordinator of Communities for Link Care Center, a counseling ministry for workers and pastors in Fresno, CA. Linda’s husband, Kevin, is a pastor of a Covenant Church in Murphys, CA. Their two children are married, and they have one grandson. Linda is a speaker, writer, spiritual director and loves hiking, canoeing and learning to paint.

From Linda:
Hi to all! I would like to choose Cries of the Heart, by Ravi Zacharias for our first book. From the back cover:

*A dream job.

*Beautiful kids.

*The best marriage.

And a growing feeling of absolute emptiness...

In Cries of the Heart, Ravi Zacharias explores the inner feeling of futility that can overwhelm a human heart and help us to:

*See a reason in our suffering
*Ease our guilty consciences
*Find freedom in pleasure
*Be comforted in our loneliness
*Truly know God
*Experience an abiding faith in our daily lives

This is a book that both inspires and reassures... a search that uncovers our hidden sentiments and reveals God's continual, inescapable presence in every moment of our lives... a journey that ends in the consummate answer to the cries of the heart.

This book club offering will cover 8 weeks, with week 1 being introduction to the 7 chapters.

SPECIAL DEAL for WOTH Readers!: One of Linda's friends, Sue Richmond, owns a bookstore, Inklings Bookshop, in Yakima, Washington and is partnering with us to offer you all an opportunity to order the book at a discount.

Women are welcome to order their books at Inklings Bookshop. Sue is offering a 30% discount for the books ordered for the book club but will add the charge for shipping your book to your location (anywhere in the world!)

*To order, email sue@inklingsbookshop.com and put in the Subject line, Linda Swanson’s group. COST: $9.79 + shipping ($13.99 retail)

*You will need to include your credit card information (type, number, expiration date, security code, and billing address) as well as your shipping address.

*After she cares for your order, Sue will delete your credit card information from her email.