Udmurtia VSC/ Jack & Sara

Joshua Project. . .

2011-11-10T23:49:00.000-08:00

. . . Is an amazing thing for anyone ever wondering about the verse in Matthew 24 where Jesus says, " and this gospel of the Kingdom shall be preached in ALL the world as a testimony to ALL nations, and THEN the end will come.". Yes there will be the wars, the natural disasters, and other things that He said would happen, but He also said that these were NOT the end but the beginning. THE END is waiting on the gospel's proclamation. So how can that happen? Look at the Joshua Project and it will give you some insight. Maybe it will even encourage you to get involved.
One of the things I've been doing while being laid up on the m field is reading through some of the things in this wonderful web site. Not only does it give listings and info about people groups who have never heard, but it gives ideas for individuals, and churches on how to be involved with the Lord of the harvest in what He is doing right NOW. He said, " I came to seek and to save that which was lost.".
I have a friend who is busily engaging himself and others into this harvest field by posting a new people group to pray for on Twitter each day. They of course come from the Joshua Project listings.
When you remove the "I've got too much to do" log from your eye, you will find an amazing new world of what God is up to. Oh yes, I forgot, take away the 'entertainment log' as well. Yes, I'm on my IPad right now. I can use it for His purposes or mine. Sit down with Him for 30 minutes and do www on the Joshua Project and see for yourself. If you need, He can arrange for you to get off yor feet for awhile, but it's better to do it voluntarily.
One other very cool thing is that Udmurt people USED to be on that list of unreached, and unengaged, but not now. Yes, there is a long way to go, but at least we're going by His Grace.

Thanks for the prayer,
Jack

Baseball, cold weather, and Nikita. . . .

2011-11-07T01:06:00.000-08:00

I came here to meet new people, and learn how to better help pray for what God wants to do in people 's lives. Jesus said " pray the Lord of the harvest, that He would send forth laborers ...". Now there's a prayer request, from the lord Himself. How are we doing on that commandment? I haven 't been able to do much traveling around, but I am meeting some new people.
One is Nikita. This one is about 9 years old. He can be as rowdy however, as the other one that some of you senior folks remember.
His answer to who is God was, " someone who lives on a cloud".
He lives mostly on the streets, doing what boys like to do, play. He doesn't eat regularly because of family conditions. But he did come to the Bible club last week and listened ( some) to Olga share about God's love for him.
It 's a good possibility that he will become involved with 'drinking' crowd early, because he is looking for something that can meet his most urgent need, attention. Olga can only hold him lovingly around the neck while she teaches the lesson for a short time.
Cold weather doesn't interfere with his desire to play. He will still do that; and with whoever will play with him.
Lord of the harvest, do you have anyone out there that would like to come and play baseball with Nikita?

Epaphroditus and I have one thing in common. . .

2011-11-04T08:09:00.000-07:00

Even though I don't know WHAT his illness was, I can certainly sympathize with him being away from home without his normal caregiver and no such thing as tylonal. Thank the Lord for prayer and His healing power.
Having been down for two days, gives you plenty of time to work on talking and more importantly, listening to God. Isaiah writes for the Lord "is God's hand too short that it cannot save?". .. (no implied). . . But it is your sins that have separated you from Him. . . ".
Realizing how much we need to call on Him, and more so him speak to us is becoming so vivid here. Yes we can see the enormous task of reaching lostness. We can even realize our inabilities and helplessness. But, do we realize His power to break through the darkness.
"How do you know God has a special plan for me?", Elana, 14 asked. Then after hearing her friend Tanya read the promises and PLAN of God for her "in Christ" from Ephesians 1 she indicates her desire to have this. Pray for her to receive Jesus's great life for her.
She is just one of many desparately wanting to know is there hope. Pray for the others to find His healing power.

"all things work together for good...". ( Rom., 8:28)....

2011-11-02T08:49:00.000-07:00

No one likes being sick,especially me and especially now in Udmurtia. But, the Lord can use anything to work in peoples lives. Yesterday I was able to share my testimony and a simple salvation message to the Bible club kids. It was fun. They were so receptive. Today I had a sore throat and wound up sleeping mostly. Tanya and Olga told the kids about it and several wanted to pray for me. Some who had never prayed before did. Tanya and Olga were excited that so many were eager to pray. We can pray with them that the Lord will use even this to bring them into His eternal life.

Discouragement and victory coexisting. . .

2011-10-31T21:28:00.000-07:00

When we met on our walks yesterday (Monday), Tanya and Olga were sad about so many rejections of invitation to the Bible Club that afternoon. It seems that as they get older they find other things to do here, just as in the USA. However, watching them go door to door and praying as we went, I knew and asked God that He would reward this act of faithfulness somehow. Fifteen young ones and two older teens showed up. The blessing was that most were ones that had NOT been invited that morning.
I wlll go this afternoon and provide the 'Americanski curiosity amusement' and pray for the Lord to use that as well.
Pray for Olga, a very gifted young lady from Izhevsk, as she helps Tanya here in Chur with this Bible club and a new one in Yaksur Bodya nearby. Pray for the hearts of the young ones and the parents as Jesus walks among their needs to offer them His life. Pray for other laborers into this harvest field.

Three in one. . .

2011-10-30T10:59:00.000-07:00

Usually refers to the Trinity, but in this case it refers to one Udmurt, one Russian, and one American holding hands together before the throne of 'the great three in one' and giving praise to Him for bringing us together, as well as joining Him in His own prayer for Udmurtia, Russian and American people to become part of His family that is One. That was this morning, at Resurrection church. Later on a couch in Chur village, listening to one young girl from Izhevsk, share her passion for helping small rural churches in Udmurtia reach out to the children and through them the older ones. You may join us in this united prayer of God's for His children to be One in three.
Had a wonderful day of holding hands with God!

Very exciting things. . .

2011-10-29T10:08:00.000-07:00

We've asked you to pray for God to open the doors of people's hearts and He is. Yesterday in prayer drive through several southern regions we stopped and visited with city officials and were encouraged at the receptivity to bring a team into their town to interact with the people. Pray for this college team that will arrive next summer to do this.
This evening we were able to pray with an Udmurt lady who is a new believer and has a new group started in her home just outside Ishevsk. Pray for the husband and wife team from Resurrection church that are leading this on Sunday nights.
Both items above are great evidences of fruits of God's blessing in answer to your prayer.
The good news IS being heard in Udmurtia and is multiplying in people's lives!

Keep praying
Jack

All we can do is pray. . .

2011-10-27T06:12:00.000-07:00

After the first day, the most important thing that is so necessary is PRAYER! Not only do people who do not know the Lord need prayer for them to be able to hear God's voice, but the one's who proclaim His message desperately need prayer to keep going with a seemingly impossible task. Life is hard enough in the places we call 'home'. We go about our daily routines and find plenty of obstacles to stress us and wear us down. Try doing it in a place where the whole culture, language and weather is drastically different.
What can you specifically pray for?
1. That God would open doors of people's hearts when they are met by the good news bearers
2. That God would energize the good news bearers with His strenghth.
3. That His Word would find good soil to grow in and bear fruit that multiplies.
4. That His glory would be seen in all of it and He would be exalted.
As we say many times in a crises situation, ALL WE CAN DO IS PRAY! It is God who gives the increase.

God bless you as you meet with Him to join Him in prayer for His kingdom agenda,

Jack

Back to Udmurtia. . .

2011-10-22T17:54:00.000-07:00

Monday, I will be back 'in the air' heading for Moscow, Russia. The trip gets more difficult each year, but I do enjoy getting there and being with some very dear people that God has entrusted us to be friends with in the place called Udmurtia.
This time I will be going out into new towns and villages to take pictures and meet people to continue our 'adopt a region' prayer emphasis. I hope that you are involved in this. If not please consider yourself, Sunday school groups or even church to adopt one of these 25 regions where there is no or little evangelical witness for the Lord Jesus.
Stay with me for the next three weeks and pray me through the divine encounters He has planned.
You can go online to an Udmurt map, follow me around if you'd like and pray with me daily as we go. I will try to post something each day, but it all depends on internet connections. We will see if an IPad will work in Udmurtia.

Serving Him together,
Jack

Udmurtia comes to USA. . .

2011-04-19T13:30:00.000-07:00

Sometimes the Lord changes the way we do things and as always with Him, blessings follow. This year He has made it possible for us to have a wonderful couple from Udmurtia to come here to the U.S.

Sergei and Tanya Subbotin have come to visit from the village of Chur, Udmurtia in Russia. After landing they immediately wanted to 'see' as much as possible. Now, after four weeks they can say they have experienced quite a lot in such a short time. After a drive tour of several states, visiting her nephew in South Carolina, ministering in several churches, and 'resting' at Jack and Sara's 'dacha' in Yellville, AR., they have many impressions and realizations about this part of the USA. . . all good ones.

But, not only have they been able to receive such blessings, they have been a blessing to many. In the process of sharing their testimony of how they came to Christ and the work in their village of Chur they have been used of the Lord to touch many hearts here as well.

Most importantly, God's Kingdom work will see much fruit as a result of His using them on this trip, both here and there.

Keep praying as we continue our Kingdom walk together.

Serving Him together,

Jack

Safe at home. . . .

2010-09-10T03:27:00.000-07:00

That has a nice ring to it doesn't it. It's great to travel and experience the adventures of life, but there really is something about going home. It's the place you feel most comfortable, and can rest. Yes, I realize that 'laziness' can set in and ruin such pleasure, but that's another story.

We arrived back in Arkansas Thursday evening after a very long day of flying.

Lots of blessings fill this trip with wonderful memories and things to praise God for and lead us into more concentrated prayer for God's Kingdom work in Udmurtia. The most needed memory that I'm bringing back with me this time is a reminder of just how to pray more effectively for what God is doing there in this beautiful little republic.

The realization of not just numbers of people who do not know the Lord, but actual people with names and faces that I know. Will they ever get to realize that peace of God that comes with a repentant heart and be able to say one day with the rest of God's children. . . . praise God, we're safe at Home with Jesus. This man will. Pray for the others.

Loaves of bread. . .

2010-09-08T10:46:00.000-07:00

Hundreds of loaves of fresh, delicious bread go out each day from Sergei's bakery in the village of Chur, Udmurtia. Many people receive these loaves and are sustained for another day of physical life.
Your prayers are much needed as we seek to have the 'bread of Life" go out from the 7 spiritual bakeries that are located around Udmurtia ministering to over 1.5 million people. 700,000 are native Udmurts the others are Russian. All have need of that living Bread.
A new prayer emphasis is being emphasized called 'adopt a region'. There are 25 regions in the whole republic. We are looking for people to make a constant plea for Heaven to open and pour out it's blessing of the 'bread of life' to the people of this land. You know what the Lord did with just five loaves. Join us as we pray for the power of God to once again 'feed the multitudes'.

blessings
Jack

Thank you from Chur Baptist to Myron Baptist. . .

2010-09-05T03:38:00.000-07:00

A "bolshoy spaasebah" ( big thank you) goes out from Chur Baptist church to the folks at Myron Baptist church in Arkansas. Myron has been sending gifts for about 2 years to help Chur with their renovation project which is creating a youth center and kitchen in the bottom floor of their building.

It is not finished but much further along thanks to gifts such as these.

Also, in reverse, thank you Chur Baptist for being such gracious hosts to us while we are here. You are a blessing and have become such very close friends.

May this same fellowship of love radiate out from here into the whole world.

blessings to all,

Jack

Wonderful time of rest and being with friends. . .

2010-09-04T05:19:00.000-07:00

It has been a great week. Beginning with a worship time with the team in this same village, then going out into other villages and watching 'the master' at work; both in us and them and now being alone with some dear friends to rest and enjoy this 'end of summer/beginning of fall' weather. I really like my work as a disciple maker with the 'master'.

Of course you may not think a hike out in the woods, up a mountain and back is much of a rest. It does allow you to see things from different perspectives. Sergei and Tanya invited us to live in their home these past few days. Being able to sit, talk, drink lots of tea and get to know each other more and grow 'with the master' is a very good thing. Tomorrow we will share in this same 'communion' with others of this same place. It is very restful. It is very close to a view of Heaven.

I've found this in Arkansas, other places in the world and especially here. Resting and working together with friends and 'the master' is a picture of Heaven on earth.

"I believe in God, but. . . "

2010-09-03T12:33:00.000-07:00

This is a common response to a survey we took in a particular village. It is not unusual to find people who do believe in God, maybe even know about His Son, and believe that He died for the sins of the world but, to believe that He would forgive them and accept that with their heart is the obstacle. " I believe in God, but I don't know if He could forgive me"... was the response of Riaya.
That is the case with several people here. They believe about it, but do not have a belief in their heart to make this life changing decision. This is the need for much prayer.
I believe this is the case over the whole world, even in America. Many know about Him, but do not have the relationship with Him.
When asked, do you read the Bible, the response is "no; I'm too busy" or I don't understand it.
Have I mentioned there is the call to prayer and the subject of prayer. . . . "no one can come to the Father except the Spirit draws him. . .".

keep praying
Jack

Getting to know you. . .

2010-09-01T20:58:00.000-07:00

In the process of getting to know Ms Sara, this Udmurt lady also came to know Someone far more important.

It has been a very encouraging three days of visioning here this week. Each day the Lord has shown us what He is doing, and let us share in helping Him do it. We have seen many answers from Him resulting from your prayers.

The reps from Oklahoma, Missouri and Texas will leave for home today. Pray for them as they travel. They have been able to see amazing things this week as they prayed in villages and home.

Our desire is to see groups of ladies and men like this one in the photo with Sara meeting together and getting to know that most important Someone. It is a great possibility here in this place.

blessings

Jack

The Sheep came home. . .

2010-08-31T12:27:00.000-07:00

"What is it with you people? You pray for my lost sheep and they come back. You laugh when you sing, yet your not drinking." Later this Udmurt man prayed and became a lost sheep found after witnessing the Lord's answer to the prayer about his own sheep that had been lost for 4 days.
What a wonderful way to start and finish a Monday.
" I stand amazed in the presence of Jesus the Nazarene. . . " is still a great song, especially when you get to watch it!

blessings from the land of the 'people of the woods'
Jack

We're here. . . .

2010-08-29T06:05:00.000-07:00

After an overnight in Moscow, a slight, nerve challenge of losing Brad for about 15 minutes while there, and the 18 hours of rock and roll ( that's the short description of a Russian train ride) we are blessed to be here finally in the land of Udmurts. . . the 'people of the woods'.
Getting to see our many friends that have been developed over the past few years, making new ones as we met up with some folks from America, and having a great time of fellowship with all is part of the blessing. Another blessing is watching Brad adapt to all the new stuff. . . in particular Russian language. . . he loves Russian pop music. He sings along as if he knows the songs?
The relationship that has developed over the past few years is now one of those 'treasures in Heaven' things. . . to see other friends of the King and watch how they've grown and what He's doing with them is great.
We'll have more news later with pictures next time. Thanks for praying.

Hello from Red Square in Moscow Russia. . .

2010-08-26T10:38:00.000-07:00

We made it this far. Had a very smooth trip. Thanks for praying. It was good to see some of our friends here and spend some time with them. It seems they've gone through some American food 'deprivation' problems so where's the first place we ate. . . . . McDs. . . . yes, it's everywhere.
Now Brad is an official Russian tourist. . .He's been to Red Square.
We'll have more to tell tomorrow. Got to get rid of a little jet lag tonight. Keep praying!

Jack, Sara, and Brad

Brad is going to Udmurtia. . .

2010-08-19T03:56:00.000-07:00

We practiced last year with Brad flying to Seattle to see the whales. But, three hour plane rides are short compared to the eleven hour jaunt from Atlanta to Moscow. Pray for us as we slide across the air currents of the Atlantic for another adventure with the Lord in Udmurtia.

This trip is especially for Brad because he will be ministering to a bunch of disabled young people and parents at a place I call "Hope House". It is a faith operated organization in Izhevsk, Udmurtia that helps such families. They are planning a special 'get together' for the clients and Brad will sing and play his harmonica for them. Yes, there will also be a Special Olympics photo showing. It always amazes me when we can watch the Lord take such simple things as a smile and an song from the heart and turn someone's world into a heavenly place.

"A Cup of Cold Water". . . .

2010-08-12T19:43:00.000-07:00

As we return to Udmurtia again, it will involve meeting some new friends that have been made by the two young men sitting here with the man in the yellow shirt. They were helping him with some projects around his farm house. We look forward to watching how God is at work here in these people's lives and being there as He directs us in anything we might do to make a contribution.

If you've been praying please keep going. It is making a difference. You are as much a part of such work as those who are there.

Stay tuned and we will tell you some incredible stories about Acts 29.

Blessings

Jack & Sara

Surrender brings Freedom!

2010-07-04T19:26:00.000-07:00

Onesimus was led by the Lord to surrender himself back to his 'master' Philemon. Not an easy thing to do when he had stolen from him and ran away. All through scripture the Lord leads people back to their place of fear. Abraham with Isaac the son of promise. Jacob with Esau. Me with speaking to groups of people ( I came very close to passing out as a junior in high school while making a speech ). But the Lord changes everything. He really does change us. Surrender to Him brings real freedom. When He challenges your faith this week with such trials as forgiving a wrong, holding your tongue, loving the unlovable, prayerfully surrender and watch the master reward you with His love and peace.

blessings
Jack

Rea Valley Baptist on the webb. . .

2010-06-22T18:30:00.000-07:00

Rea Valley Baptist is now (for better or worse) on the internet. Cyberspace, high-tech, 21st century here we are. For now all that is available is who the pastor is ( me), Randy the youth pastor / outdoor ministry leader and a map on how to get to the church (sort of). You need to turn left after you come to the end of the 'google blue line' or you'll be sitting at the intersection looking at a sign that says "Rea Valley Baptist" to the left.
Anyway, pray for us as we learn how to use this; hopefully to God's glory and not just for another amusing site to visit on the internet ( although Randy's picture could fall into that catagory).
All of it will improve as we go along and make improvements.

Back in the USA. . .

2009-10-27T14:13:00.000-07:00

. . . and it always feels great to be here! What a great place to live, the U.S.A. We are so blessed here. I'm sitting here in a terminal at JFK looking out over the bay leading into Manhatten. Ellis Island is just across the horizon and Lady Liberty stands very tall above the waters welcoming everyone to come on in. Some will come and complain, while others will take the opportunity and step out on faith taking advantage of that opportunity.
In the same way, in a land further away, stood another very tall, cruel place of sacrifice by the greatest Liberty maker of all, the Lord Jesus Christ. He too invites everyone to come on in to His eternal life. . . "whosoever will" . Some will come in and complain, while others will take the opportunity and step out on faith taking advantage of that opportunity to not only live in that wonderful world of God's grace, but also help others do the same.
"Great is thy faithfulness, O' God my Father; morning by morning new mercies I see".

Jack

Das Vaydonya from Red Square, Moscow Russia. .

2009-10-26T10:20:00.000-07:00

The Udmurtia October 09 team would like to say 'spaasebah bolshoy' to all our prayer partners for this trip. God's blessings have been tremendous. Many things to report when we return.
We left many new friends and 'family' behind in Udmurtia. Also, many answered prayers about many aspects of the trip. . . new family members, new church starts, new Bible study groups, and new outreach groups of Udmurts reaching Udmurts. . . to God be the glory.

Jack, Greg, Susan, Nellie, Jana and Sara

Snow is just around the corner. . .

2009-10-24T02:29:00.000-07:00

The clouds are moving in. It's beginning to get rainy and colder. Before long the people of Udmurtia will be settled in for another time of beautiful snow and sub zero weather. It's also a time to think about things they've heard and seen.

Many have heard the good news and are thinking already. Some have received Bibles for the first time and are already reading. New church groups have formed in Udmurt villages and are singing the new songs that tell of Jesus.

As the winter moves in and covers the land with a time of cold, may the warm love of God be embraced in their search for truth and love. It has been a great time of meeting new people and sharing that love. Pray for the Lord of the harvest to bless and send fruit and laborers.

Blessings all.

'Will there be any dogs in Heaven?". . .

2009-10-23T11:57:00.000-07:00

That's a question asked by many kids. If Jana Snell has anything to do with it there will be. She has learned to communicate to at least 3 Russian cats, 1 rabbit and this 'little' Russian dog. She's taking the cultural exchange to a whole other level.

The video crew left for Moscow today with a tremendous Udmurt choral sendoff. Thanks Gunther and Mark for tackeling a tough job, but well done.

Our kids also left for Novosabirsk this evening. Good news; they have 'job' here and one apartment contract signed.

Our team, is winding down with a birthday party, a puppet outreach workshop, and church at Sarapol.

Pray for our train departure Sunday; the kids back to Novo; the video team back to various places; and us as we wind down and go back to the states.

Lots of barriers, but the Lord overcomes them all. PTL.

blessings

Jack

Udmurt Bibles and children's books in Udmurt language. . .

2009-10-21T09:34:00.000-07:00

Udmurts from a church in Voktinks are taking the good news out to neighboring villages. We were able to attend a combination worship service, thanksgiving dinner and a 29 year marriage anniversary all in one here in this village. Nellie Yount from Yellville FBC enjoyed helping pass out Udmurt language Bibles and children's books. Pray for: more Bibles and books to give out . . . more teams to go out to other villages. . . and more prayer to break down the obstacles that are keeping those things from happening. Thanks to all of you for praying. JG

'I become all things to all men that I might by some means win some. . ."

2009-10-20T12:03:00.000-07:00

Greg Warlick from Choctaw OK got a promotion tonight. Valodya's brother, Slava is a high ranking lieutenant in a Russian max security prison. He tried to get his uniform to fit on a much larger Greg, but. . . great time with his family; eating, sharing information about each other and most importantly, prayer together.
We also learned that every prisoner has access to a Bible.
Pray for Slava and his wife Larissa. She is a doctor in their village.
More visits in schools today. We all are staying very busy traveling around, but the Lord is blessing tremendously.
Pray for: relationships developing; hearts to be receptive to God's love; obstacles to be overcome; and believers here to be strengthened. Thanks!

'Getting To Know You" . . .. . .

2009-10-19T09:17:00.000-07:00

Greg meeting some Russian firefighter 'buds', Nellie passing out Ruby Truax's 'love you' hearts with an Udmurt lady and Jana sharing her 'favorite things' with girls and guy at school 48 was a very blessed 24 hours. Thanks for praying cause these things happen because of it. Blessings ( all planned by Him) are what we are doing and receiving. Tremendous. More culture exchanges tomorrow and more blessings also.

Items to pray about: two couples who are wanting to 'live' in Izhevsk being accepted into language school / their living quarters/ and our group getting to meet all that Dad wants us to.

"And they went everywhere preaching the word. . . "

2009-10-17T21:22:00.000-07:00

It's Sunday morning and we have team members literally everywhere around this southern area of Udmurtia. The real blessing is that it's Udmurt Christians out doing the work of ministry to their people and we are just encouraging them. Susan and Greg are in a village with Udmurt singers doing outreach, Marc Hooks is here in Izhevsk, Sara, Nellie, Jana and myself are in Voktinsk going out to more villages and an Udmurt church. Yes there are disappointing news items such as Zoya not with our ministry, but there are many more encouraging things, especially the new groups meeting and doing outreach themselves.
Susan and Greg's meeting resulted in a new one in the family Friday night and they are still out there with the singers doing a concert this morning (this is where the J Film was shut down last night).
Thanks for keeping us in your prayers.

Jack

"If it's not worth singing about, it's not worth talking about . . ."

2009-10-16T10:52:00.000-07:00

that's a saying that Udmurts have. That's also what this group will be doing this weekend in a village while they show the Jesus Film and sing about the greatest gift given to all mankind. These are a small group of Udmurt believers who want to sing about their hope in Him and give their countrymen something to talk about. Pray for us as we walk with them and "hold up their hands".

Jack

Even on the train. . .

2009-10-15T11:00:00.000-07:00

Where do you find Udmurt people? Sometimes on the train in your own compartments. And of course Ms Sara has a lot of compassion for Katya who is heading back to Izhevsk for her mom's funeral the next day. Does Katya know that God loves her and that Jesus died for her? She does now and she has a Bible to help her go further.

Thanks for praying.

Jack

We are here. . . finally!

2009-10-14T12:00:00.000-07:00

Yes, it takes three days to get into this little republic of Udmurtia. Not to mention rain delays for flights and numerous other little 'glitches'. . . but we ( the team) are all in Russia safe. I will post more info tomorrow. It is 12 midnight here Wednesday. . . and 2 pm where you are (if it's Arkansas).
We have had an exciting trip and even today after hitting the ground are learning much about the changes that are going on. . . some good and some bad. Please pray. There is much opposition to this trip and even more concerning what the Lord is doing here.
Every one on the team is safe and reasonably not too worn out.

more later
Jack

HOPE4Udmurtia is 'in the house'. . .

2009-10-12T02:58:00.000-07:00

The word from our 'kids' is that they ARE registered and are looking for an apartment. Arkansas team is in Little Rock ready to go this Monday morning. Praise the Lord for all He is doing of bringing this together.
Thanks for your prayers. More later today.

luuuuuuv y'all
Jack

"As the deer pants for the water, so my soul longs after you O' God. Psalms 42:1

2009-10-10T13:19:00.001-07:00

No, it's not a moose from Udmurtia, it's an elk from Trail Ridge Road in Colorado. I met him personally and he's been the subject of a watercolor I did this summer. He's also the visual for Psalms 42:1 which is the theme verse for our Udmurtia trip October 12 -27.

That is our desire for the people of Udmurtia to come to that point in their own hearts; to 'thirst' after God and desire Him.

Please pray with us as we go that the Lord will work out His perfect plan and that the enemy will not interfer with any part.

Thanks

Jack

October trip is now forming and preparing. . .

2009-08-11T16:28:00.000-07:00

Prayer time is upon us for the October 09 trip to Udmurtia. The team has materialized from two places. Yellville, Arkansas sends Nellie Yount from First Baptist, and Jack and Sara Gilliland from Rea Valley Baptist. Also joining us is Susan Gabreal, from First Baptist, Elk City Oklahoma. We are waiting on word from another man from Oklahoma City. Please pray for these individuals, our translators, the transportation and most importantly, what the Lord wants to be accomplished in this trip.
Two other couples are joining us in Udmurtia from as they continue to study the Russian language.
Good things are continuing and prayer is appreciated.
More coming later.

Jack Gilliland

Language students doing great. . .

2009-07-02T23:21:00.000-07:00

Here is a note from our good friends in Russia
They've just returned from a get together with friends in Greece. Now back in Novasobirsk and back to work on the Russian language. Keep praying for them and the upcoming trip to Udmurtia in October.

thanks for your prayer faithfullness
Jack

A D AY I N A THENS
e are over two months into
our language study in
Novosibirsk, and God
continues to bless us. We
were able to travel to Greece for a
conference with some of our friends
from Central and Eastern Europe. It
was a great time of refreshment and
fellowship, and we were even able to
sneak in a little sightseeing! It was so
great to see many of our friends who
we met at orientation in Richmond.
On Friday, July 3 a team from Georgia
arrives to hold a week long English
Club. We anticipate that many of our
friends will attend. Please be praying
that we will have opportunities to share
with the people who come to English
Club. Also pray for safe travel for this
team. We are excited to be able to
celebrate the 4th of July with them!
Last month a team of 4 baseball players
came from the states to host a week
long baseball camp. We had a great
turn out and most of the participants
even learned how to play! One of the
coaches shared his testimony to the
entire group. Please pray relationships
will be built with those who attended
baseball camp.

Prayer note. . .

2009-06-18T12:39:00.000-07:00

Sorry I haven't posted anything in awhile. On our last post, we talked about 'grandpa' Valodya and his grandchildren. This same family had a 4th child born just after this photo was taken and would have been 4 months old this month, but he wrote and said that the child had passed away last week at 3 months old. So sad. Please keep all this family in you prayers.

Serving Him together,
Jack Gilliland, VSC Udmurtia

Congratulations 'Grandpa' Valodya. . .( again) ...

2009-04-02T15:29:00.000-07:00

Valodya Kuznetchov, our Udmurt evangelist who is busily showing the Jesus Film everywhere he can get a group together ( 5 new places since February) is shown here with three of his grandchildren. These are his oldest daughter Masha's children shown here last February and expecting her fourth. He wrote today that she has had the baby and everyone is doing good. Continue to pray for this family. Her husband was out of work last month.

This makes number 5 grandchild for Valodya.

Thanks for your prayer support.

Jack Gilliland

Udmurtia VSC

"If we show it, they will come. . ."

2009-03-18T11:56:00.000-07:00

The snow is beginning to melt and spring is just around the corner. It will be planting time soon in the little villages all around Udmurtia. Valodya Kuznetchov is already busy with his planting even on frozen ground. The report just came in that he has shown the Jesus film five more places since Mark McManus and I went with him in February. That's some serious traveling on the snowy roads that we saw.

Please pray and help us keep Valodya busy. We are also praying for more teams to be trained by him to do this work as well as discipling teams to do follow up involving church plants in all these place.

Pray for some very dear friends who will be moving to Novasibersk, Russia soon to begin studying Russian language.

Serving Him together,

Jack & Sara Gilliland, VSC

The 'Energizer' Church. . .

2009-03-14T19:49:00.000-07:00

. . .they just keep going and going and going. . . The little church at Chur village ( shown here with the 'cafe outreach center' in progress) reports that February 23 ( men's day in Russia) they sent out invitations to the village for a special get together at the church and 46 people showed up. At their Christmas program 35 people came; mostly young people.

They are having a surge of 'energy' in the form of blessing from God. Pray for them as they live out the gospel in their village and that many people will come to salvation.

Projects and prayer needs for 2009

2009-03-10T14:03:00.000-07:00

Our projects and prayer needs for 2009 are summarized in this photo. Please join them in prayer for:

a. The Christians of Udmurtia to hear God's call to go out and reach the unsaved of their Republic.

b. For teams to join us June 10 - 23, 2009 and for October, 2009 trips to go with teams of these young people to show the Jesus film and visit their neighbors.

c. For the laborers who are answering God's call to
live there and serve.

If you are interested in being involved with either of the dates listed above, please let us know by writing artman72687@yahoo.com.

blessings
Jack

A Church in every village. . .

2009-02-18T08:30:00.000-08:00

This is Misha. Misha is an Udmurt man who lives in a small village southwest of Izhevsk, the capital of Udmurtia Republic. He was one of the people responsible for helping us arrange to show the Jesus film in his village two weeks ago. That was the night about 40 young people showed up and several raised their hands in answer to the question "how many of you prayed to received Jesus into your hearts" during the film.

Misha also has a small church meeting in his house, but now has a mission field of young people in his back yard wanting to know more about Jesus.

Misha's son, who lives in his dad's house with his own family of 4, is an agricultural engineer by training but has not been able to find a job elsewhere so he lives and teaches at the school in this village where all of these young people attend.

Pray for this little church in Misha's house and for this group of young people who prayed. Pray also for this to multiply 2000 times over the Republic of Udmurtia.

Pray also for Valodya Kuznechov as he arranges, trains other teams, and travels around showing the Jesus film in these villages.

Pray for HOPE 4 Udmurtia as we add support to what God is doing here in Udmurtia.

Serving Him together,

Jack Gilliland

Udmurtia VSC

Rock climbers and muscians. . .

2009-02-10T05:21:00.000-08:00

Oleg and Yannah, a young couple from Resurrection church said "come and meet our friends". With a cake, some fruit, and our family picture album we were off again. There we were able to meet and visit with other rock climbers and one young musician who assured us "he didn't smoke mushrooms only ate them". As usual, the Lord met with us. Yannah asked, "Mark, tell us how you came to God". The result was a terrific visit, gospel message was shared at least twice, with several accounts of how great God was, His faithfulness and ending in prayer requesting that these young people also come to know the Lord Jesus.

This is how the 'home visits' went. Several times the team was asked the question "can you tell how you came to Christ" and the message went out once more. Pray for the planting and watering to continue in this frozen Republic.

Blessings

Jack & Mark from Moscow

Thank you for bringing the Jesus film. . .

2009-02-09T08:22:00.000-08:00

The lady on the far right in the photo, took us by the hand and with a huge smile said "I've been waiting and praying for years for someone to come to our village and bring something like this to tell the story of Jesus".

That same evening many of the young boys and girls who came said they had prayed with film when it asked if they wanted to come to Jesus and ask Him to forgive them and come in to their lives.

We are praising the Lord for the move of God's Spirit in the lives of so many people we visited . Thank you for praying.

Jack & Mark in Udmurtia

Faithfully serving . . .

2009-02-09T07:35:00.000-08:00

Next year will mark the 100th anniversary of the "Old Baptist Church" in Izhevsk. This lady who has been involved in the work of it for several years is one of the faithful who were 'standing in the gap' when it was very difficult to do so.

They are responsible for the starting of the Resurrection church in another part of town. This is what we are praying for to happen all over Udmurtia.

Please pray with us as the fire catches on in this country and spreads to every village and city of the Udmurt Republic.

Great prayers. . .Great God. . . Great things. .

2009-02-06T04:43:00.000-08:00

Sorry we've been absent for a few days. .. internet was down at the hotel so this is from a place downtown. All things DO work together for good though. We've found this very nice place for future teams to have internet access.
Blessings to report:
Praying and sharing the Lord and His salvation with families in their homes.
Sasha reports that many of the visits by the October and May teams are producing much results.
Now showing the Jesus film in new villages and seeing good fruit from it as well.
Follow ups are becoming possible and the relationships are building.
We are talking with kids in school today and good reports from it.

We will have more details in a later report, but for now. . . praise the Lord and keep praying.

blessings from 22 below ( celcius ... but still very cold) Izhevsk...
Jack and Mark

It's beautiful. . . .

2009-02-03T20:05:00.000-08:00

For those of you who have prayed for the little church at Chur and wondering how are they getting along with their new kitchen, and meeting place for young people at their church building ... it"s very beautiful...just like the people. It"s not finished yet of course, but it's getting closer. The kitchen has cabinets and fixtures. Plumbing was being worked on last night and expansion and finishing in the big room where the kids will meet was being worked on too. Pray for Oleg, who does most of the work himself. He is a very quiet young man, but does very good work. And for you veterans of the trips.... the toilet has doors now... Sorry I didn't have time to get pictures on this note, but will next time.
Not only did they have 35 kids show up at their Christmas party, but now the church folks are visiting with them and being allowed to minister to some needy families. Pray for the gospel to be heard by these. . . and more.
All of the brother's and sisters at Chur church say thanks for praying and also God bless you. To the Myron Baptist church a special thanks for helping this little church with this project.

Serving Him together,
Jack & Mark in Udmurtia

'Jesus, son of David, have mercy on me. .. ". . .

2009-02-02T22:11:00.000-08:00

That's what one blind man cried out as he embarassed the crowd with his loudness. That didn't bother Jesus. He answered that man's prayer. I realize you saw this photo on yesterday's blog but, please prayfor this young Udmurt man who came to see the Jesus film and we prayed with him after to be delivered from his alcohol problem. Pray for the thousands of others like him.

blessings,

Jack & Mark, Udmurtia

'To the uttermost parts. . . "

2009-02-01T22:48:00.000-08:00

The showing of the Jesus Film last night in a little Udmurt village south of Izhevsk was blessed. The man holding the Udmurt song book was singing because he had just prayed.

That was a blessing to see the Lord working on his heart. Please pray for him as well. He battles the alcohol problem as so many men do.

Just how far will the Lord go to reach out to someone's heart? . . . all the way to the cross.

Keep praying as we go out this week to other villages and see God break through some 'icey' hearts.

blessings from the 'freezer'

Jack & Mark

"Where two or more are assembled in my name. . "

2009-01-31T09:34:00.000-08:00

The seminar on spiritual gifts was very successful. Good attendance with at least 4 or more churches from Udmurtia represented by leaders from these groups, a great presentation by Mark McManus from New Hope Baptist of Yellville, AR., wonderful singing and God's presence all added up to a picture of blessing and grace honoring the Lord.

The Lord is indeed 'building His church' and the evidence of that in Udmurtia is shown by the eagerness and hunger of young people like this new family desiring to learn more about fellowship and service to God through the power of His Spirit and faith in the Lord Jesus. HOPE4Udmurtia is blessed by being a part of God's move in the hearts of people like these two. We praise the Lord for what He has done this weekend with this seminar and look forward to hearing of the fruit that will result.

Keep praying for us and the showing of the Jesus film in some new areas next week.

Serving Him together,

Jack Gilliland, pastor Rea Valley Baptist & Udmurtia VSC

Learning more as we go. . .

2009-01-29T19:49:00.000-08:00

We had a great meeting last night at Valodya's small group meeting in his home. Resurrection church has started doing several of these with their members. It was a good time of sharing concerns and prayer needs with them as well as enjoying food and laughing together. Their concerns are the same as ours. Economy, political concerns and more important how to be faithful to the Lord in reaching out with the gospel.
We were encouraged to hear of several that are in 'training' for baptism ( hope they have a heater cause it's pretty cool here).
A new alpha group is going now. This has proven to be a good tool for them. It has been consitantly useful since last January, 08.
The younger Christians are so encouraging in their zeal to serve God. They are 'nervous' but not to the point of backing down from going out to share the gospel.
We will have some of them with us as we go out next week with the Jesus film.
The seminar starts tonight. .. keep us in your prayers as we 'listen to God's voice' in strengthening them in their walk and development of their spiritual gifts.

more later from
Jack & Mark in Udmurtia

Back in Izhevsk

2009-01-28T20:46:00.000-08:00

Hello from Izhevsk. . . the arrival team was waiting on us at the train station as they always do. After lunch, and a good nights rest we'll be headed out Thursday to do some visits.

This is Mark McManus's 2cd visit to Udmurtia. Pray for his family and the many other families around Baxter and Marion counties. Several thousand are without power. Mark and his family were in the process of moving into a new house so this is creating a challenge for them, while he is here.

Jack's family is stranded in Sprindale at our daughter's house.

Keep the prayers going so we can too.

blessings

Jack & Mark in Udmurtia

We're here (again). . .

2009-01-28T04:33:00.001-08:00

We made it back safe to the winter wonderland of Udmurtia. Everything is snowy white here and they are saying it's supposed to get cold next week. . . somewhere below zero I believe I heard. Praise the Lord for warm buildings.
Valodya, Kostya, German, and Katy (our translator) say greetings to all their prayer friends (that's you).
Valodya is very excited about the delivery of the first Jesus film for children in Udmurt language. After a review of the language accuracy we may be able to use it for our two evangelism efforts next week, February 1 and 2. Pray for this.
Pray for Mark as he leads the Spiritual gifts seminar Friday and Saturday.
Everything is going good. We safe, full, and ready for a nap.

blessings from Udmurtia
Jack & Mark

Mountain moving 101. ..

2009-01-27T04:01:00.000-08:00

Not quite the thing Jesus was talking about when He gave the original prayer challenge of faith, but moving a 'mountain' of luggage through the Moscow metro does require prayer and 'muscle'. Thanks Tim and Lisa for helping us. The things missionaries have to do to have the blessing of 'junk food' snacks is really amazing. . .
We've made it to Moscow in great shape. Fairly easy flight with sleep on the plane. . . that's a blessing.
The Wickers are fine and Tim is thawed out from the Siberian excursion.
Thanks for the prayers. You are very appreciated and are very much part of how the Lord really does ' move mountains'.

Serving Him together,
Jack and Mark in Moscow Russia

Let's make the 'circle' larger. . .

2009-01-25T13:48:00.000-08:00

In the small village of Cerovai one evening we joined hands, sang and prayed with several people that night as we closed our meeting with them. Yes, the gospel seeds were planted. Only the Lord knows ( for now) what happened in their hearts.
Keep this in your prayers, because in just over a week we will be doing this again in other villages. We will be going out and sharing with more new people the 'story of Jesus' by way of the Jesus film ( in Udmurt language) and with God's love through our lives.
Pray for Mark McManus, Valodya ( in the red Razorback shirt, bottom right), other team members and me as we go and try to make the circle larger.

Serving Him together,
Jack Gilliland, VSC Udmurtia
Rea Valley Baptist Church