ONWARD AND UPWARD

Neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord. Romans 8:39

Dear Friends of BrookLink,

Thank you for standing with us through this year. Allow me to be honest with you. This is a very challenging year for me and for our staff. You’ll not be surprised.

One year ago the Board of Directors invited me to lead BrookLink as President. I began enthusiastically in January with plans to have in-person engagements one week per month, visiting Wisconsin from my home in Alberta (western Canada). Again, in February I came for another week. Then I was invited to speak at Winnetka Bible Church’s annual missions weekend in March. That was on March 15, 2020, and then the whole world changed! After the Sunday service I caught an early flight home, where I quarantined for 14 days. Like you, my life as I planned it came to a screeching halt.

That Sunday’s sermon was from Matthew 28:16-20, and entitled “Jesus’ Authority”. Here it is if you wish to listen: http://wbc.org/resources/sermons/jesus-authority/. During the pandemic I’ve had to remind myself often that this disruption in under the sovereign control of the God of the universe. It serves as a reminder that we are not in control, contrary to popular opinion. “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me.” Honestly, it’s been an internal struggle to process that truth. If you’re like me, you believe it in your head, but your heart and emotions can’t help but feel tension.

Thank you for praying with us, as many of you have, through these challenges. One of my first projects was to hire a replacement for Ann Woelfel, who had given her intention to pursue other professional opportunities. Lindsey Hulstrom applied, was interviewed, and offered the position all before Covid-19. Thankfully Becky Riebesehl provides continuity for us. Not without challenges Lindsey has risen to the occasion and serves admirably. I invited her to share part of her story for your encouragement:

I praise the Lord for saving me to serve and love Him. He teaches me to live in forgiveness.

Lindsey is married to Daniel and is mother to Nick. Daniel is a former teacher, currently works as a nurse and serves their church family as a deacon. He is also an amateur illusionist and enjoys sharing the gospel with kids through his gifts. Nick is a sophomore at the UW-Madison. When he is not performing with the Badger Marching Band as a snare player, he pursues degrees in Computer Science, Economics and Philosophy.

And so friends, thank you for your encouragements. Thank you for serving to the ends of the earth in the Middle East, Armenia, India, Asia and Africa! We look forward to a return to “normal” in the coming year, Lord willing. In the meantime we appreciate your prayer and financial support of this work.

Yours in Christ’s Service,