Kris and I are writing to tell you that we really need you to focus on us in your prayers over these next few weeks.
As many of you know, we were hoping to get our support levels up to an amount specified by the board of ABM by August 1st, or need to consider going to "part time status" with ABM. If that happened, I would then seek other work, and we would concentrate on Kris' role as Director of Women's ministry. I would fall back into more of a support role for her.
So we spent the past three months focusing on support raising, culminating with a trip outside in july. That trip went very well and we received several invitations to travel and share our ministry.
But we didn’t make it to the 60% level by the date specified and are still about $380 per month short of that goal.
So, for the next few weeks, the key word is TRANSITION.
I have fallen back on my computer background some in the past and possibly can continue to do so for the next several weeks. Although this would seem to be an ideal way to go, we are still looking at it as transitional, and the economics of our situation may require me to take whatever I can get in the way of employment.
We see the fact that we did not make it to the level required as an indication that we need to seek God in a number of ways. Rest assured, however, that we are still fully committed to our ministy to those in the Alaskan bush and view this simply as something along the way in that process.
Specific prayers:
1. We lack wisdom. We find answers in the Word, in counsel, and sometimes in that "still, quiet voice." Pray for discenment as wee re=evaluate and adapt.
2. Pray that I can generate some billable time doing computer work (networking, hardware, software, tech support, business applications, etc . . .)
3. Pray that, If I do need to pursue other employment, we will be patient to wait on the Lord, but not sitting around on our hands either. I may need to hit the streets!
4. Pray for the staff at ABM as we all deal with this change.
5. Pray for Kris as she looks at the possibility of ministry where I am not involved, at least temporarily. We celebrated 23 years together yesterday, and our greatest strength in ministry is our marriage. Not being together in ministry will be difficult.
Regarding my billing out computer work, this would not be run thru ABM at all but I would do this under a separate business license that I have. If you and may be able to use my services in this way, please let me know. (local to us, yes . . . But even with remote assistance)
I would be happy to discuss our situation with any of you. This is not an appeal for additional money. We believe we are still remaining true to the call God has placed on us in ministry - - and we just want you to continue in your partnership.
Thanks!
Gary Harris
