SEMINARY IN A SUITCASE

“I no longer call you servants, because a servant does not know his master’s business. Instead, I have called you friends, for everything that I learned from my Father I have made known to you.” 

~ John 15:15

Dear Friends,

Lately, I have been thinking about what it means to be a disciple of Jesus Christ.  Like you, I often hear the word “disciple” in Christian circles, literature, and sermons.  While I prefer the description of a disciple as a lifelong learner, there is much more to being a disciple than meets “christianese” chatter.  Being a disciple isn’t just for the learned or seasoned in ministry, but for all believers.  It is this simple, yet profound, distinction that Jesus calls us into friendship with Him.  Being His disciple is a humbling invitation to a meaningful identity.

Earlier this month, the BrookLink Board of Directors hosted its first in-person strategic planning retreat in nearly three years.  After a long covid-induced hiatus, our board and staff happily came together to share vision for our future in ministry.  Through robust dialog, we feel lead to identify and prioritize ministries that have exponential potential to multiply disciples and strengthen the church on the frontiers of gospel advancement.  Through connections with seasoned trainers and existing global partnerships, we can locate where greatest needs are for disciple-making and invest in new global partner training opportunities.  You make this happen through your generosity and prayers!  Thank you so much.

Thanks to your faithful generosity, BrookLink has a trusted presence among developing global partners.  We had several small group breakout sessions throughout the planning retreat, which facilitated helpful reflection and sharing.  We enjoyed an “a-ha!” moment when our discussion lead to describing our ministry like a “seminary in a suitcase.”  We trust in the Lord to continue enabling our excellent trainers to enhance disciple making movements.

Speaking of identity, Lee was recently invited to share on the Florida-based podcast, CapeMen Drivetime.  Host Dave Drum asked Lee to talk about one’s identity as a disciple.  Lee spoke candidly about getting to the heart of “What owns me?”  Although CapeMen aims its conversations to a male audience, Lee’s encouragement is genuinely for anyone, and I encourage you to check it out.

You are our dear friends, and you serve alongside us, whether it’s in zoom prayer, a board room, on the field, or at the office.  You provide tremendous generosity and encouragement, and we thank the Lord for you.  We trust your resurrection Sunday worship was meaningful and reminded you what a Friend we have in Jesus.

Shalom,

President

Board members past, present and future contributed to a meaningful planning retreat.  Together, with staff, we wholeheartedly say “yes” to the Lord and His future for BrookLink.  We hold such creative and strategic plans in His grip as He guides.  We thank Him for how He’s provided through YOU for helping to build His church.