I have returned to Montgomery, AL, after a successful trip. As you read the reports, you see the amazing developments and opened doors. To be sure, there were many actions not included in the reports. There was just too much to include! And respect for the governing regulations kept some events silent. Hopefully I will be able to share some of the “missing pieces” in personal reports in the coming weeks!
As I claw my way through the jet lag, I want to include the following paragraph from report #16. I am constantly reminded that the successes enjoyed are not from a single individual’s efforts but are presented in a tapestry woven by many involved in many ways. But true success results because of the Almighty’s “working”!
In ALL earthly efforts (and especially in the spiritual realms) the Scriptures often urge reliance upon God’s Truth, God’s patterns, God’s commands, and not on man’s “rethinking” and secular counsel for success and strength. You do not minimize service. You do not excuse a failure to crucify self because you want to please self. Your mission #1 is to serve as Christ served and bring glory to God! Do NOT lose focus on your mission’s objective. Here are three of many texts:
- “The horse is made ready for the day of battle, but the victory belongs to the LORD” (Proverbs 21:31).
- “Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we trust in the name of the LORD our God” (Psalm 20:7).
- “The king is not saved by his great army; a warrior is not delivered by his great strength. The war horse is a false hope for salvation, and by its great might it cannot rescue” (Psalm 33:16-17).
I’ll close by thanking everyone who’s part of this amazing effort! Everyone plays a significant, critical role in our success. The truism says that “a chain is only as strong as its weakest link.” In our situation, the “chain” is very strong because each link is doing what it can do! “The whole body, being fitted and held together by what every joint supplies, according to the proper working of each part, causes the growth of the body for the building up of itself in love” (Ephesians 4:16).
An absolute truth concludes this trip’s reporting: “The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.”
“Through your prayers” (Phlm 22), this trip HAS seen multiple successes as “doors of opportunity” opened (Colossians 4:3)!
Thank you for your constant prayers and financial support!
John L. Kachelman, Jr., UKRAINE MISSIONS, Dalraida Church of Christ, Montgomery, AL
