CCY Connect october edition 2024

1 Timothy 2:1-2 - I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people— 2 for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness.

I can’t help but notice something not in these verses. Did you notice it too? I didn’t see any mention of political parties. This verse doesn’t say only pray for the leaders you wanted to be there.

Titus 3:1-2 - Remind the people to be subject to rulers and authorities, to be obedient, to be ready to do whatever is good, 2 to slander no one, to be peaceable and considerate, and always to be gentle toward everyone.

The start of verse two can be hard to find in these times, to slander no one. I don’t see that represented in our society’s usual political discussions. I can’t help but see Facebook posts and news articles that are not peaceable and gentle toward everyone.

Romans 13:1 - Let everyone be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God.

As we approach this election season, I see some who put their faith in whoever is elected next. Romans here reminds us who is actually in charge. It isn’t who is elected, it isn’t even a particular political party. God has and continues to establish the authority of our world because God is in control.

Not too long ago I heard John Maxwell talking about watching a political debate from years ago and realizing that neither candidate was for him. That neither candidate has his best interests at heart. When I look at the political parties it’s clear to me that neither is established to push the Bible or Christian ideals. That doesn’t mean they don’t ever overlap with Christianity but they are not designed to be our authority, God is.

When we speak about politics and our leaders during this season of our lives, I am reminded of the greatest commandment in Matthew 22.

Matthew 22:37-39 - Jesus replied: “‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ 38 This is the first and greatest commandment. 39 And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’

For me personally I find a greater need during these times to pause before I speak. I need to focus my thoughts and words. When we speak it should be apparent that we first love God and that we deeply care about and love all people. I hope that my discourse around these often difficult discussions shows that I know deep in my soul that God is in charge and our political situation is only temporary. Our society wants to put people into categories of right or left but we need to look beyond that and be followers of Christ first and foremost.

Galatians 3:28 - There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.

September has been a month of celebration and joy as we witnessed the dedication of five precious babies at Christ’s Church of Yukon. These moments are always special, filled with love, hope, and the promise of a future shaped by faith. As a congregation, we stand alongside these families, committing to pray for and support them as they raise their children to know and follow Christ.

We are so grateful for the parents who have chosen to dedicate their little ones, recognizing that every life is a gift from God. Let's continue to surround these families with love and encouragement as they begin this exciting journey.

If you feel led to dedicate your child, please reach out to Ms. Tori for more information on our upcoming dedication services.

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ and Supporters,

Burma and Thailand are changing every day, just like other countries around the world. But as Hebrews 13:8 says, our Lord Jesus is the same yesterday, today, and forever. Thailand's political situation remains tumultuous, with no resolution in sight, while civil war is erupting throughout Burma. However, we are safe because of God's loving care. We thank God for each day, and we are reminded of the words from Jeremiah: "Because of the Lord's great love we are not consumed, for His compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness" (Jeremiah 3:22-23).

Burma Ministry Update

Recently, people from all parts of Burma have moved into Yangon in large numbers, as it is safer than other areas where fighting continues daily. Our evangelists have been accommodating some of these individuals in the churches, which provides an opportunity to teach them God’s Word. Every two months, the evangelists conduct Bible seminars and invite non-Christians to learn about the gospel. Slowly but surely, more Burmese people are coming to Christ and being baptized. Last month, three people were baptized—praise God!

Due to the ongoing civil war, which has lasted for over three years, Burma's economy has collapsed, leaving many people jobless, and food is very scarce. As a result, we are trying to distribute rice to families in the churches in Yangon from time to time. The suffering in Burma is beyond what words can describe. Prices for everything have skyrocketed, and the Burmese currency has lost much of its value. We greatly appreciate your prayers for Burma and its citizens.

Thailand Ministry Update

We continue our Grace Mercy Home ministry in Chiang Mai. Every week, different people from various villages and Burma come to stay for a week or more as they receive treatment at the provincial hospital. These visitors join us for worship every Sunday. Many of the individuals who stay at Grace Mercy Home are non-believers, giving us a valuable opportunity to witness to them about the Lord. Some of these people from Burma are wounded from the civil war and are sent to the Chiang Mai provincial hospital by NGOs; they stay at our shelter while they recuperate.

The Rvwang Bible Reprinting Project and Commentary on Daniel

The Rvwang Christians in Burma have requested that we reprint the Bible, as the edition we printed in 2009 is now out of circulation, leaving many without a copy. My co-worker Andrew Mana and I have been reviewing and correcting typographical errors since I returned to Thailand from the US. We have now completed the review and formatted the Bible for printing. Due to the civil war and other hardships, the Christians in Burma are unable to contribute funding for this project, so we are looking for organizations that can help with the printing costs. We would greatly appreciate your prayers in this regard.

The Rvwang Christians in Burma and those scattered across other countries have also requested that I write a commentary on the book of Daniel. I have started this project and have completed a draft of the first two chapters. Please join us in prayer for the successful completion of this project.

We want to sincerely thank you for your faithful prayers and financial support each month. May God richly bless you and keep you in good health.

Together in service to our Lord,

Jerry and Boonporn

As we enter October and celebrate Pastor Appreciation Month, it’s a special time to show our gratitude to those who serve us faithfully here at Christ’s Church of Yukon. We are blessed with an amazing team of leaders who give their time, energy, and hearts to guide our church family.

Clay Parrett, our Lead Pastor, pours his wisdom and passion into each Sunday sermon, shepherding us with grace and a heart for God’s Word. His leadership reminds us of 1 Peter 5:2-3:

"Be shepherds of God's flock that is under your care, watching over them—not because you must, but because you are willing, as God wants you to be; not pursuing dishonest gain, but eager to serve; not lording it over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock."

Clay’s dedication and example are a true blessing to CCY.

Chris Miller, our Youth Pastor, makes an incredible impact on the next generation, guiding our youth to live out their faith with boldness and integrity. His work reflects 1 Timothy 4:12:

"Don’t let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith, and in purity."

Chris’s energy, creativity, and love for the students are vital to our ministry as he prepares them to be future leaders in our church and community.

Tori Lambert, our Children’s Director, plays a vital role in nurturing the spiritual growth of our youngest members. Her dedication echoes Proverbs 22:6:

"Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it."

Tori’s heart for the children shines through in every lesson, activity, and event, helping to lay a firm foundation of faith in their lives.

This month, we encourage you to show appreciation to Clay, Chris, and Tori. Whether it’s a kind note, a word of encouragement, or lifting them up in prayer, let’s remind them how much they mean to us. As Hebrews 13:17 reminds us,

"Have confidence in your leaders and submit to their authority, because they keep watch over you as those who must give an account. Do this so that their work will be a joy, not a burden."

Let’s bless our pastors and leaders with our gratitude and prayers this October!

The Season of Sharing is just around the corner, and we’re excited to once again participate in Operation Christmas Child. This is a wonderful opportunity to bless children around the world with a gift that may be the only one they receive in their entire lives.

You can make a difference by filling an Operation Christmas Child shoebox with toys, hygiene items, school supplies, and other small gifts. Beginning October 27th, stop by our Operation Christmas Child display table in the Gathering area at CCY to pick up one or more shoeboxes. Once filled, please return them to the church by November 17th.

Each box represents not just a gift but also an opportunity to share the love of Christ with a child in need. Let's come together as a church family and make an impact this Christmas season!

Over the next couple of months, we are gearing up for one of our most exciting events of the year—our Christmas Extravaganza, which will be held on Saturday, December 7th! This event is a wonderful opportunity to serve our community, and we need your help to make it happen.

There are countless ways to get involved, and we are confident that whatever gifts God has given you, there is a place for you to serve. Love interacting with people? We need greeters and friendly faces throughout the day! Feel called to pray for and with others? We have a place for you. Are you passionate about working with children? There will be ample opportunity to engage with our youngest guests. Prefer to serve quietly behind the scenes? We need help in those areas too!

Even if you’re not available on the day of the Extravaganza, there are still ways to contribute. Perhaps you have new or gently used toys to donate or could provide a small gift for a child to wrap for their parent. Or maybe you have some time to come to the church and help sort and hang clothing.

Whatever your availability or area of interest, there’s a place for you! Please reach out to Kathy Rumbo or Shera Porter to get plugged in and discover how you can help make this Christmas season special for those we serve.