Dear Members and Friends of IBCZ, One of the best aspects of my seminary experience was meeting weekly with three fellow students. We came from very diverse backgrounds, yet God knit our hearts together as we gathered for breakfast, along with Bible reflection, prayer, and sharing our needs, joys, and
Continue readingDear Members and Friends of IBCZ, This week Daniela and I had our first German class. We both have a bit of a background in German, but let’s just say we have a long way to go! I know most of you have been in the same situation, whether that
Continue readingDaniela and I have been here for almost two months now. We have thoroughly enjoyed getting to know so many of you, and look forward to getting to know all who are a part of IBCZ in the coming weeks and months. It has especially been gratifying these past couple
Continue readingDear Members and Friends of IBCZ, Last Sunday we considered the first half of the Great Commandment, that we are to love God with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength (Mk. 12:28-34). Along with loving our neighbor (the second half of the Great Commandment), Jesus said there is no
Continue readingDear Members and Friends of IBCZ, Today (Tuesday, July 24 as I write) Daniela and I received our residence permit cards (Aufenthaltstitel) in the mail. That really made our day! We began the process of applying as soon as we arrived three weeks ago, and other work was done in
Continue readingDear Members and Friends of IBCZ, As I mentioned Sunday, for these next 4-5 weeks I will be preaching on the theme of “Encountering Jesus.” We will look at examples in the Gospels of people who encountered Jesus, noting the impact this had on their lives, and what it means
Continue readingDear Members and Friends of IBCZ, What a joy and honor it was to be installed as your pastor during our worship service this past Sunday. Both Daniela and I are so grateful for the privilege of serving with you. I ask for your prayers, that I might be led
Continue readingDear Members and Friends of IBCZ, I want to take advantage of this opportunity in this, my first blog posting, to let you know how thrilled Daniela and I are to be here. Ever since our visit with you in April, we have been eagerly looking forward to joining you
Continue readingPromises: “Then” Anon: “1949 in the Hebrides, revival hit. At the time devotion to God had been replaced with devotion to whisky. The churches were nearly empty and many were about to close. But at a time like this there were people willing to intercede. Two elderly ladies in their eighties
Continue readingPRAYER: Relationship, Recognition of Ownership and Responsibility 2 Chronicles 7:14: “If my people who are called by my Name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then…” Last week we saw that the purpose of prayer is relationship. Doesn’t come cheap, not
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