Dear Friends,
We were contacted by AGWM (Assemblies of God World Missions) today; we have been given a deadline of July 31 to finish raising our funds. If we have not raised all of our funds by this date, we will not be allowed to return to Tanzania. Currently, we have raised 75% of our monthly pledge support needed and we still need $26,000 in cash.
Please pray with us for this urgent need; we will post updates every few days on this site so that you can keep track of our progress.
We need a financial miracle; please pray with us for this need.
We believe that our God is able to meet our needs!
Be blessed,
Tim & Joyce Jarvis
Wednesday, May 28, 2008
Friday, May 23, 2008
Status Report May
Friends,
I want to just give you a quick update as to where we stand in our support. We were at almost 78%; however, we had a budget increase which dropped us back down to about 73%. The Lord has given us several new ministry partners this week and our monthly support is now back up to 76%; please continue to pray for us.
We have been itinerating for 21 months now and had hoped to leave for the field this past January; we are urgently needed in Tanzania. We are the only missionaries assigned to the western region of Tanzania; this region is about the size of the state of Indiana. There are still many unreached areas in that region. In addition, there are a number of new churches there that need our help in becoming strong indigenous churches that will reach their communities with the Gospel.
Please continue to pray that we will be able to return to Tanzania very soon; we know that God has called us and He is more than able to supply our needs.
Be blessed!
Joyce
I want to just give you a quick update as to where we stand in our support. We were at almost 78%; however, we had a budget increase which dropped us back down to about 73%. The Lord has given us several new ministry partners this week and our monthly support is now back up to 76%; please continue to pray for us.
We have been itinerating for 21 months now and had hoped to leave for the field this past January; we are urgently needed in Tanzania. We are the only missionaries assigned to the western region of Tanzania; this region is about the size of the state of Indiana. There are still many unreached areas in that region. In addition, there are a number of new churches there that need our help in becoming strong indigenous churches that will reach their communities with the Gospel.
Please continue to pray that we will be able to return to Tanzania very soon; we know that God has called us and He is more than able to supply our needs.
Be blessed!
Joyce
Monday, May 19, 2008
Variety
Yesterday we went to two different churches; one in the morning and the other in the evening. Both of them are Assemblies of God churches but were very different in their style of worship and the way the services were conducted. The variety that exists in our churches has always amazed me; as we have itinerated these past twenty months in churches located in seven different states we have seen all parts of the variety spectrum. We have seen everything from very conservative to very liberal and all things in between.
I suppose this has to do in part to the variety that exists among individual people as well as different parts of the country and even between city and rural areas; America is a melting pot of so many different cultures. In Tanzania, there is less variety in the order of service and in the worship style than there is here in the states. I think it's because they are less exposed to outside influence and they are more the same as Tanzanians in general. The biggest variety we noticed in Tanzania is in the instruments they use during their worship time; we've seen guitars with various numbers of strings, keyboards of all sizes, drums of all varieties, shakers, boards, pop bottles, and even a whistle in one church. Anything that they can use to make a joyful noise with they use to worship God.
It reminds me of the scripture in Revelations 5:9, "...ransomed people for God from every tribe and language and people and nation". In heaven, they will be singing and worshipping God around the throne throughout the ages. The song and the worship will basically be the same, however, the variety among the people will be unparalleled.
Be blessed today!
Joyce
I suppose this has to do in part to the variety that exists among individual people as well as different parts of the country and even between city and rural areas; America is a melting pot of so many different cultures. In Tanzania, there is less variety in the order of service and in the worship style than there is here in the states. I think it's because they are less exposed to outside influence and they are more the same as Tanzanians in general. The biggest variety we noticed in Tanzania is in the instruments they use during their worship time; we've seen guitars with various numbers of strings, keyboards of all sizes, drums of all varieties, shakers, boards, pop bottles, and even a whistle in one church. Anything that they can use to make a joyful noise with they use to worship God.
It reminds me of the scripture in Revelations 5:9, "...ransomed people for God from every tribe and language and people and nation". In heaven, they will be singing and worshipping God around the throne throughout the ages. The song and the worship will basically be the same, however, the variety among the people will be unparalleled.
Be blessed today!
Joyce
Thursday, May 15, 2008
Tanzanian Friends
Hello everyone,
Recently, we had an opportunity to spend a little time with some Tanzanian friends. The Mhiche's (m-he-chay) came to the states to see their oldest child, Daniel, graduate from Evangel University in Springfield MO. Neither of them have ever been to the states before and they were both a little overwhelmed with the many things that assaulted their senses all at the same time. They were in awe of the wealth and possessions that the Americans have and take for granted. Mama Mhiche spoke to me in Swahili about the beauty of this country and how clean and neat our streets and cities were kept.
I remembered back to how we were overwhelmed when we first arrived in Tanzania at how poor the Tanzanian people were; there was poverty and disease all around us and it assaulted our senses as well. We come from totally different worlds; one very affluent by African standards and the other very poor.
We came together for a common cause; we each had a desire to reach the Tanzanian people with the Gospel. We became friends and formed a bond of friendship with mutual respect for one another; we are all part of the family of God doing the work He has called us to do.
Mama Mhiche hugged me and said, "Now that I have seen your country, I understand what your family left when you came to Tanzania".
As the scriptures say, "we are compelled by love".
We are anxious to return and work together with our brothers and sisters in Tanzania to see the lost come to Christ. Please pray that we will be able to return soon.
Be Blessed,
Joyce Jarvis
Sunday, May 11, 2008
Happy Mother's Day
Dear Friends,
Today is Mother's Day; a day of great joy for me personally. Both of my daughters are out of state today and so we are not able to be together. However, I know that they will both be calling me sometime today to wish me a Happy Mother's Day and to tell me they love me.
This day is probably the most emotional day of the year; many are joyful and nostalgic about today. Others, because of various situations experience deep sorrow, regret, or loneliness on this day. The emotions we feel on this day have to do with our experience in the area of motherhood; very few people do not experience some type of strong emotions related to this day.
I am thankful that I have two beautiful, loving, Christian daughters; I have been blessed.
However, I think of the mothers today in the country of Tanzania where there is no holiday that honors them. Few of them see all of their children grow to be healthy adults; there is a very high mortality rate among infants and children in most African countries. Mothers watch helplessly while their children who are born with complications die because they do not have health care available to them. Many of them watch their children die because of diseases and illnesses that are preventable and curable; but they do not have the money to buy the medicines or medical care that they need to survive.
I have known women whose husbands sent them away or took another wife because they were not able to bear children for their husbands. In Tanzania, it is a great shame for a woman to be barren. I have often prayed with women across Tanzania who were barren and came to me in desperation asking me to pray that God would give them children. I have seen some of these women bear children and have seen them rejoicing because God has blessed them.
I feel blessed today that I was born and that my children were born in a country where we had health care available to us. I look forward to the time I can return to Tanzania and again have the opportunity to minister to the incredible women of that country.
Be blessed today!
Joyce Jarvis
Today is Mother's Day; a day of great joy for me personally. Both of my daughters are out of state today and so we are not able to be together. However, I know that they will both be calling me sometime today to wish me a Happy Mother's Day and to tell me they love me.
This day is probably the most emotional day of the year; many are joyful and nostalgic about today. Others, because of various situations experience deep sorrow, regret, or loneliness on this day. The emotions we feel on this day have to do with our experience in the area of motherhood; very few people do not experience some type of strong emotions related to this day.
I am thankful that I have two beautiful, loving, Christian daughters; I have been blessed.
However, I think of the mothers today in the country of Tanzania where there is no holiday that honors them. Few of them see all of their children grow to be healthy adults; there is a very high mortality rate among infants and children in most African countries. Mothers watch helplessly while their children who are born with complications die because they do not have health care available to them. Many of them watch their children die because of diseases and illnesses that are preventable and curable; but they do not have the money to buy the medicines or medical care that they need to survive.
I have known women whose husbands sent them away or took another wife because they were not able to bear children for their husbands. In Tanzania, it is a great shame for a woman to be barren. I have often prayed with women across Tanzania who were barren and came to me in desperation asking me to pray that God would give them children. I have seen some of these women bear children and have seen them rejoicing because God has blessed them.
I feel blessed today that I was born and that my children were born in a country where we had health care available to us. I look forward to the time I can return to Tanzania and again have the opportunity to minister to the incredible women of that country.
Be blessed today!
Joyce Jarvis
Saturday, May 3, 2008
Licensed
Hello, everyone
We just finished attending the Southern Missouri District council this week; it was a very busy time. This was our first time to attend the council for this district; we attended all of the events in an effort to meet as many pastors and officials in this district as possible. Each day we were at our booth before the morning sessions started and stayed until at least 10:00 each night. We made ourselves available to answer questions about us and our ministry in Tanzania.
I, Joyce, received my credentials (license) with the Southern Missouri District council on the final evening of the council; it was a highlight for me. I am now a minister with the Assemblies of God and am licensed through the Southern MO district. Tim is ordained through the Michigan District; this makes us both Michigan and Southern Missouri missionaries. Sarah was able to attend the credentialing service and presented me with a dozen red roses from Jenn, Sarah, and Tim.
I believe that being a licensed minister will open doors of opportunity for me to minister more effectively both in the states and in Tanzania.
Be blessed,
Joyce Jarvis
Friday, April 25, 2008
Birthday blessings
Hello, everyone.
I just have a quick note today; yesterday was Sarah's 21st birthday. Sarah is our youngest daughter and we are celebrating with her on Sunday afternoon since she is in the middle of studying for finals this week.
Sarah reminded me that 10 years ago, on her 11th birthday, we were in language school in Musoma, Tanzania. It was a difficult time for Sarah. Tim and I were away at school a lot and she was left alone with an African housekeeper who barely spoke English. She was home schooled and had no friends; she did not even know how to communicate with the Swahili-speaking children who lived around us. At that time, she was very homesick for America and the life she knew before Africa.
She reminded me that it rained on that day and she asked if she could go out and play in the rain for her birthday present. I said, "yes", so she danced and laughed and played in the rain on her 11th birthday; her first one in Africa. She thoroughly enjoyed herself and we laughed together; it was a good memory.
It rained Thursday on her 21st birthday as well; she didn't dance in the rain but she WAS driving in the rain. She is no longer the frightened lonely little girl she was then; God has brought her a long way and we are thankful for His faithfulness.
Be blessed.
Joyce Jarvis
I just have a quick note today; yesterday was Sarah's 21st birthday. Sarah is our youngest daughter and we are celebrating with her on Sunday afternoon since she is in the middle of studying for finals this week.
Sarah reminded me that 10 years ago, on her 11th birthday, we were in language school in Musoma, Tanzania. It was a difficult time for Sarah. Tim and I were away at school a lot and she was left alone with an African housekeeper who barely spoke English. She was home schooled and had no friends; she did not even know how to communicate with the Swahili-speaking children who lived around us. At that time, she was very homesick for America and the life she knew before Africa.
She reminded me that it rained on that day and she asked if she could go out and play in the rain for her birthday present. I said, "yes", so she danced and laughed and played in the rain on her 11th birthday; her first one in Africa. She thoroughly enjoyed herself and we laughed together; it was a good memory.
It rained Thursday on her 21st birthday as well; she didn't dance in the rain but she WAS driving in the rain. She is no longer the frightened lonely little girl she was then; God has brought her a long way and we are thankful for His faithfulness.
Be blessed.
Joyce Jarvis
Tuesday, April 22, 2008
Every member important in the body
Hello, Friends.
Sorry, once again it's been a week since I last blogged; sometimes time seems to go so fast.
Last Wednesday evening I accidently rammed my foot into the leg of the couch and heard a loud pop and felt a sharp pain. When I pulled my foot from under the couch my middle toe on my right foot was lying across the top of the two toes on it's right; definitely a broken toe situation.
We decided we needed to go to the emergency room; even though we know they only tape it. We felt we needed to have it x-rayed since I am diabetic and have some problems with my feet anyway. Five hours later, at 3;30 am, we left the hospital with my toes taped together, I was wearing a protective shoe, and I was attempting to use a pair of crutches. I was also given a prescription for pain medicine.
I am able to walk around fine without the crutches as long as I wear the protective shoe which keeps my toes from moving or bending. However, I have to walk at an odd angle because of the shoe that is too big and it is causing me more pain in my knee than I am experiencing with my broken toe, I am also having pain in my hip because of the awkward way I walk now. This has to continue for about four weeks.
Well, all of this has reminded me of the scripture in I Corinthians 12:12-26; read it for yourself and I won't take time to preach my little sermonette here. Suffice it to say, that every member of the body is important and necessary and it's pain affects all other parts. I just want to remind you that this applies to the body of Christ; we are all part of each other and need each other; I have been painfully aware of the truth of this for the past week.
Tim and I want to thank all of you for being part of our "body of ministry in Tanzania"; we need all of you and each one of you are important to us. No matter what part you have in our ministry; know that you are loved and appreciated by us.
Blessings,
Joyce and Tim
Sorry, once again it's been a week since I last blogged; sometimes time seems to go so fast.
Last Wednesday evening I accidently rammed my foot into the leg of the couch and heard a loud pop and felt a sharp pain. When I pulled my foot from under the couch my middle toe on my right foot was lying across the top of the two toes on it's right; definitely a broken toe situation.
We decided we needed to go to the emergency room; even though we know they only tape it. We felt we needed to have it x-rayed since I am diabetic and have some problems with my feet anyway. Five hours later, at 3;30 am, we left the hospital with my toes taped together, I was wearing a protective shoe, and I was attempting to use a pair of crutches. I was also given a prescription for pain medicine.
I am able to walk around fine without the crutches as long as I wear the protective shoe which keeps my toes from moving or bending. However, I have to walk at an odd angle because of the shoe that is too big and it is causing me more pain in my knee than I am experiencing with my broken toe, I am also having pain in my hip because of the awkward way I walk now. This has to continue for about four weeks.
Well, all of this has reminded me of the scripture in I Corinthians 12:12-26; read it for yourself and I won't take time to preach my little sermonette here. Suffice it to say, that every member of the body is important and necessary and it's pain affects all other parts. I just want to remind you that this applies to the body of Christ; we are all part of each other and need each other; I have been painfully aware of the truth of this for the past week.
Tim and I want to thank all of you for being part of our "body of ministry in Tanzania"; we need all of you and each one of you are important to us. No matter what part you have in our ministry; know that you are loved and appreciated by us.
Blessings,
Joyce and Tim
Tuesday, April 15, 2008
Trip to Michigan
Hello, everyone
We left last Wednesday for Michigan; we had a Mission's convention at Traverse City with Living Hope Assembly of God. We had a wonderful time at a house meeting on Thursday night; our hostess, Marianne, was so gracious and the group that gathered at her home were wonderful mission's-minded people. It was a great evening!
The other reason we were in Michigan is that our niece was married on Saturday and Tim and I were Master/Mistress of Ceremony. It was a beautiful wedding. Our daughter, Sarah, traveled to Michigan with us and our oldest daughter, Jenn, traveled from Iowa and joined us; we have always been close to Wayne and Connie and our children have always been close as well.
We left last Wednesday for Michigan; we had a Mission's convention at Traverse City with Living Hope Assembly of God. We had a wonderful time at a house meeting on Thursday night; our hostess, Marianne, was so gracious and the group that gathered at her home were wonderful mission's-minded people. It was a great evening!
The other reason we were in Michigan is that our niece was married on Saturday and Tim and I were Master/Mistress of Ceremony. It was a beautiful wedding. Our daughter, Sarah, traveled to Michigan with us and our oldest daughter, Jenn, traveled from Iowa and joined us; we have always been close to Wayne and Connie and our children have always been close as well.
It was wonderful to be together with our two daughters again; we have not been together since right before Christmas. We didn't get much sleep over those three days but we did a lot of catching up and it was well worth the effort; we did a lot of laughing and remembering.I was reminded again as we parted ways on Sunday and Jenn headed back for Iowa that our children grow up and go their own way whether we are ready for it or not. I was also reminded of how far away we will be from them when we are in Africa but I know that God will give me special grace for that time.
Blessings,
Tim & Joyce Jarvis
Tim & Joyce Jarvis
Saturday, April 5, 2008
Old dogs and new tricks
Dear Friends,
As I check my last entry, I realize that it has been more than a week since I my last update; I do apologize. Time passed quickly and I didn't even realize it; there's a sermon in there somewhere!
Tim and I have really been concentrating on getting back into our Swahili lessons; we have a computer program that we are using. We have definitely gotten rusty and forgotten some of what we knew before; so we are trying to faithfully do some work on it every day. The old saying, "use it or lose it" definitely applies to language skills! I am finding that the older I get the harder it is to make things "stick" in my memory. Please pray for us as we endeavor to learn more of the Swahili language so that we can better communicate with our Tanzanian friends this next term.
Last weekend we were in northwest Kansas at two different churches; we had good services and enjoyed the fellowship and hospitality of our two host pastors. We were also able to stop in for a brief visit with another Kansas pastor who took us on for support without ever personally speaking with us; we communicated via email. It would be great if everyone was as quick to respond to our request for support as this pastor.
He indicated that they were getting ready to start building a new church and he wanted God's blessing upon them and felt that one way to guarantee that was to be a mission's giving church; he has learned that God blesses those churches/individuals who have a heart for missions.
We have now reached the 70% mark for our monthly support; please pray that the final 30% comes in quickly.
Be blessed today!
Joyce
As I check my last entry, I realize that it has been more than a week since I my last update; I do apologize. Time passed quickly and I didn't even realize it; there's a sermon in there somewhere!
Tim and I have really been concentrating on getting back into our Swahili lessons; we have a computer program that we are using. We have definitely gotten rusty and forgotten some of what we knew before; so we are trying to faithfully do some work on it every day. The old saying, "use it or lose it" definitely applies to language skills! I am finding that the older I get the harder it is to make things "stick" in my memory. Please pray for us as we endeavor to learn more of the Swahili language so that we can better communicate with our Tanzanian friends this next term.
Last weekend we were in northwest Kansas at two different churches; we had good services and enjoyed the fellowship and hospitality of our two host pastors. We were also able to stop in for a brief visit with another Kansas pastor who took us on for support without ever personally speaking with us; we communicated via email. It would be great if everyone was as quick to respond to our request for support as this pastor.
He indicated that they were getting ready to start building a new church and he wanted God's blessing upon them and felt that one way to guarantee that was to be a mission's giving church; he has learned that God blesses those churches/individuals who have a heart for missions.
We have now reached the 70% mark for our monthly support; please pray that the final 30% comes in quickly.
Be blessed today!
Joyce
Tuesday, March 25, 2008
"The Gathering"
Easter Sunday, we were privileged to have one of "the gathering's"; it was our first since last September and will be our last for a long while.
These gatherings are times when we invite the East Africa MKs (missionary kids) to our home in Springfield, MO for food and fellowship. We have been doing this since our arrival back in the states in 2001 and look forward to them. It has been part of our ministry to be Aunt and Uncle (family) to the group of East Africa MKs who live in Springfield; most are attending one of the local colleges. Our home was their home with most of them having a key to our home and an open invitation to come over whenever they wanted or needed to do so. However, that ended when we "went on the road" to itinerate and rented out our home.
Well, we are currently living in Springfield again until we finish our itineration and we did not have a service scheduled anywhere this past Sunday since it was Easter. We decided to invite the group of MKs over for Sunday dinner after we had all attended Easter morning services.
It was a great time of food and fellowship; we laughed over shared memories and enjoyed one another's company again. We are proud of our East Africa MKs and truly love them as family; it was great to be together one more time.
Be Blessed,
Joyce Jarvis
These gatherings are times when we invite the East Africa MKs (missionary kids) to our home in Springfield, MO for food and fellowship. We have been doing this since our arrival back in the states in 2001 and look forward to them. It has been part of our ministry to be Aunt and Uncle (family) to the group of East Africa MKs who live in Springfield; most are attending one of the local colleges. Our home was their home with most of them having a key to our home and an open invitation to come over whenever they wanted or needed to do so. However, that ended when we "went on the road" to itinerate and rented out our home.
Well, we are currently living in Springfield again until we finish our itineration and we did not have a service scheduled anywhere this past Sunday since it was Easter. We decided to invite the group of MKs over for Sunday dinner after we had all attended Easter morning services.
It was a great time of food and fellowship; we laughed over shared memories and enjoyed one another's company again. We are proud of our East Africa MKs and truly love them as family; it was great to be together one more time.
Be Blessed,
Joyce Jarvis
Monday, March 24, 2008
Flipping for Mission
Hello everyone...
It's the eldest daughter chiming in. Since I set up this blog, I figure I can hijack it every once in a while.
For those who don't know, I'm a reporter for KWWL News in eastern Iowa. And yesterday I was able to cover a story near and dear to my heart: missions fundraising.
Through the years I think I've heard everything imaginable when it comes to raising money for missions. Some people take the safe route using bake sales and offerings, while others get a bit more adventurous. I heard about one youth group leader who raised money for Speed the Light by letting the highest bidder name her newborn baby.
Well, two families in eastern Iowa decided to flip a house to pay for their missions trip to Mexico. Click on the video player to watch my story.
Thanks to all of you for your continued prayers. It's comforting to know that even though I won't be on the mission field with mom and dad, there are people who continue to pray for me as I'm separated from them.
God Bless!
Jenn
It's the eldest daughter chiming in. Since I set up this blog, I figure I can hijack it every once in a while.
For those who don't know, I'm a reporter for KWWL News in eastern Iowa. And yesterday I was able to cover a story near and dear to my heart: missions fundraising.
Through the years I think I've heard everything imaginable when it comes to raising money for missions. Some people take the safe route using bake sales and offerings, while others get a bit more adventurous. I heard about one youth group leader who raised money for Speed the Light by letting the highest bidder name her newborn baby.
Well, two families in eastern Iowa decided to flip a house to pay for their missions trip to Mexico. Click on the video player to watch my story.
Thanks to all of you for your continued prayers. It's comforting to know that even though I won't be on the mission field with mom and dad, there are people who continue to pray for me as I'm separated from them.
God Bless!
Jenn
Friday, March 21, 2008
Good Friday thoughts
It is the most sacred season for Christians around the world; it's the Easter season. This is the time we remember the death and resurrection of our Savior, Jesus Christ. Good Friday is the day we specifically remember the death of Jesus and all the suffering he endured; it is a sobering and sad day if you dwell on the events of Friday alone. However, as a famous Christian song states, "Sunday is coming". These lyrics remind us of hope in the midst of suffering and loss.
In Tanzania, Easter is known as "Pasaka" and one of the customs is that employers give gifts to their employees. It is interesting to note that they don't have the custom of giving gifts at Christmas but they do at Easter. And, it is the employers (those who have much) who give to the employees (those who have little).
To me, this is beautifully symbolic of Christ (who had it all) giving His very life for lost humanity (those who had nothing).
This week we have been encouraged; we have heard from two churches who have decided to financially partner with us in our ministry to the people of Tanzania. And, we have also been given another substantial one-time financial blessing. We have been concerned with how slowly our pledge support has been coming in. But, in the midst of this sobering reality, God shows once again that He is the God of supply and Hope.
Pasaka njema! (Happy Easter)
Joyce and Tim
In Tanzania, Easter is known as "Pasaka" and one of the customs is that employers give gifts to their employees. It is interesting to note that they don't have the custom of giving gifts at Christmas but they do at Easter. And, it is the employers (those who have much) who give to the employees (those who have little).
To me, this is beautifully symbolic of Christ (who had it all) giving His very life for lost humanity (those who had nothing).
This week we have been encouraged; we have heard from two churches who have decided to financially partner with us in our ministry to the people of Tanzania. And, we have also been given another substantial one-time financial blessing. We have been concerned with how slowly our pledge support has been coming in. But, in the midst of this sobering reality, God shows once again that He is the God of supply and Hope.
Pasaka njema! (Happy Easter)
Joyce and Tim
Monday, March 17, 2008
Shangalia Yesu
Hello, friends.
We did not have services scheduled for yesterday; Palm Sunday and Easter are two dates which missionaries usually are not able to book for a service. That is, of course, understandable; so we were able to attend two different local churches yesterday.
The emphasis at both churches revolved around the triumphal entry of Jesus into Jerusalem just a week before he was crucified. As I reflected about the triumphal entry of Jesus, I remembered back to the many times in Tanzania when we would watch the people in various churches "Shangalia Yesu" (celebrate Jesus). We would watch people who were poor, sick, and often struggling to survive from day to day worship Jesus with great joy. I remember the African Christians waving palm branches that they gathered as they walked to church on Palm Sunday; they would often begin waving the branches and singing as they drew near to the church. Often, the people would get so swept up in their worship that the pastor or worship leader would have a special way of making the people stop worshiping so they could continue with the service. In one church, they would actually ring a bell to signify that it was time for worship to end and the preaching of the Word to begin.
Tim and I look forward to seeing our African brothers and sisters and joining them as they celebrate Jesus with great joy; we had hoped to be back in Tanzania in time for this Easter season but we were unable to do so. Please pray with us that we will finish our itineration soon and be able to return to Tanzania.
Have a blessed day!
Tim & Joyce Jarvis
We did not have services scheduled for yesterday; Palm Sunday and Easter are two dates which missionaries usually are not able to book for a service. That is, of course, understandable; so we were able to attend two different local churches yesterday.
The emphasis at both churches revolved around the triumphal entry of Jesus into Jerusalem just a week before he was crucified. As I reflected about the triumphal entry of Jesus, I remembered back to the many times in Tanzania when we would watch the people in various churches "Shangalia Yesu" (celebrate Jesus). We would watch people who were poor, sick, and often struggling to survive from day to day worship Jesus with great joy. I remember the African Christians waving palm branches that they gathered as they walked to church on Palm Sunday; they would often begin waving the branches and singing as they drew near to the church. Often, the people would get so swept up in their worship that the pastor or worship leader would have a special way of making the people stop worshiping so they could continue with the service. In one church, they would actually ring a bell to signify that it was time for worship to end and the preaching of the Word to begin.
Tim and I look forward to seeing our African brothers and sisters and joining them as they celebrate Jesus with great joy; we had hoped to be back in Tanzania in time for this Easter season but we were unable to do so. Please pray with us that we will finish our itineration soon and be able to return to Tanzania.
Have a blessed day!
Tim & Joyce Jarvis
Thursday, March 13, 2008
Michigan trip
Good afternoon, everyone.
We just returned last night from almost a week in Michigan. We had several appointments scheduled around the state and spent time traveling back and forth; we witnessed an accident and barely missed a deer that leaped across in front of us. Again, we are thankful for God's protection as we travel.
During our travels we had the opportunity to spend a day with very good friends of ours that we have known since before our children were born. We met many years ago when we were both pastoring our first church; we pastored the Assembly of God church and they pastored the Lutheran church. We met at a Gideon banquet for all the local pastors in the region and we have been close friends ever since.
They were having a get together and all four of their children were going to be home and they invited us to stop in and visit with them. It was good to see their children and think back over the years our two families have known each other. We have laughed and cried together and prayed for each other for almost 25 years.
We also were able to see Tim's brother and his family; they had one of their daughters who got married in January and the other one will be married next month; it seems like only yesterday they were born.
I am constantly amazed at how quickly time passes! We have been itinerating for about 18 months and still have more money to raise; we are long overdue to return to Tanzania. We feel an urgency to return to Tanzania before too much more time passes and we lose opportunities to reach lost people and do the work God has for us to do.
Please continue to pray for our remaining funds to come in so we can return to Tanzania as soon as possible.
Blessings
Tim and Joyce
We just returned last night from almost a week in Michigan. We had several appointments scheduled around the state and spent time traveling back and forth; we witnessed an accident and barely missed a deer that leaped across in front of us. Again, we are thankful for God's protection as we travel.
During our travels we had the opportunity to spend a day with very good friends of ours that we have known since before our children were born. We met many years ago when we were both pastoring our first church; we pastored the Assembly of God church and they pastored the Lutheran church. We met at a Gideon banquet for all the local pastors in the region and we have been close friends ever since.
They were having a get together and all four of their children were going to be home and they invited us to stop in and visit with them. It was good to see their children and think back over the years our two families have known each other. We have laughed and cried together and prayed for each other for almost 25 years.
We also were able to see Tim's brother and his family; they had one of their daughters who got married in January and the other one will be married next month; it seems like only yesterday they were born.
I am constantly amazed at how quickly time passes! We have been itinerating for about 18 months and still have more money to raise; we are long overdue to return to Tanzania. We feel an urgency to return to Tanzania before too much more time passes and we lose opportunities to reach lost people and do the work God has for us to do.
Please continue to pray for our remaining funds to come in so we can return to Tanzania as soon as possible.
Blessings
Tim and Joyce
Monday, March 3, 2008
March 3, 2008
Dear Friends,
Yesterday we did not have a scheduled service so we attended one of the local Assemblies of God churches; it was very refreshing. Sometimes we go months "ministering" without actually being "ministered to" and you can become very drained. It is important for people to remember and be aware that people in ministry need to hear the word preached just like everyone else; if we don't we can become empty ourselves and have nothing to give to others. Even though we can read our Bible and pray, it is still important for us to be part of a group of believers and to participate in cooperate worship and hear the Word preached. It was a good day yesterday, and I was thankful for the opportunity to "refuel".
Be Blessed!
Joyce Jarvis
Yesterday we did not have a scheduled service so we attended one of the local Assemblies of God churches; it was very refreshing. Sometimes we go months "ministering" without actually being "ministered to" and you can become very drained. It is important for people to remember and be aware that people in ministry need to hear the word preached just like everyone else; if we don't we can become empty ourselves and have nothing to give to others. Even though we can read our Bible and pray, it is still important for us to be part of a group of believers and to participate in cooperate worship and hear the Word preached. It was a good day yesterday, and I was thankful for the opportunity to "refuel".
Be Blessed!
Joyce Jarvis
Thursday, February 28, 2008
February 28, 2008
Hello Friends,
This past weekend we were in a small Kansas town, Moran, for Sunday services. Again, we were granted safe travel. It rained on us the last hour of the 3 hour trip and a few minutes after arriving safely at our destination the rain turned to ice followed by a couple inches of snow.
Tim helped clear the sidewalks the next morning for services and we had a good group of people who braved the weather and made it out to church.
The rest of this week will be a quiet week for us; Tim had surgery yesterday. For many months he has been having pain and it continued to increase in severity; after seeing a Doctor it was determined that he needed to have his gall bladder removed. He went in yesterday morning and had a successful surgery and was released from the hospital late yesterday afternoon.. So, we will be doing things such as catching up on paper work, emails, and phone calls. All of these things he can do with little physical effort. He is already feeling better except for the tenderness from the surgery. Keep him in yours prayers for a a quick recovery.
As always, we appreciate all of you who support us with prayers and/or financial support.
Blessings,
Joyce Jarvis
This past weekend we were in a small Kansas town, Moran, for Sunday services. Again, we were granted safe travel. It rained on us the last hour of the 3 hour trip and a few minutes after arriving safely at our destination the rain turned to ice followed by a couple inches of snow.
Tim helped clear the sidewalks the next morning for services and we had a good group of people who braved the weather and made it out to church.
The rest of this week will be a quiet week for us; Tim had surgery yesterday. For many months he has been having pain and it continued to increase in severity; after seeing a Doctor it was determined that he needed to have his gall bladder removed. He went in yesterday morning and had a successful surgery and was released from the hospital late yesterday afternoon.. So, we will be doing things such as catching up on paper work, emails, and phone calls. All of these things he can do with little physical effort. He is already feeling better except for the tenderness from the surgery. Keep him in yours prayers for a a quick recovery.
As always, we appreciate all of you who support us with prayers and/or financial support.
Blessings,
Joyce Jarvis
Friday, February 22, 2008
February 22, 2008
We have finished our "tour" through the frozen states of Michigan and Iowa and have returned to Springfield, MO. Our first experience with the Iowa churches was good; the pastors and people were very welcoming to us and we appreciate their hospitality to us even though we are not Iowa missionaries. It seemed to us that they felt our heart for the lost people of Tanzania and our yearning to return to Tanzania as soon as possible and somehow wanted to be a part of that.
On our way home on Thursday there were winter weather warnings for most of the areas that we traveled through; although we had to slow down from time to time we made it home safely. God has been very good to us during our thousands of miles of travel; we have not had an accident of any kind nor have we been stranded due to weather. I am reminded how Jesus stilled the waters for the disciples when they became frightened in the boat as it tossed around on the waves. In the same way, God has kept us safe through rain, sleet, ice, snow, fog, heavy traffic and inattentive drivers doing too many other things while trying to drive the highways.
Thanks to all of you for your constant prayers; they are needed and appreciated.
Blessings,
Joyce and Tim
On our way home on Thursday there were winter weather warnings for most of the areas that we traveled through; although we had to slow down from time to time we made it home safely. God has been very good to us during our thousands of miles of travel; we have not had an accident of any kind nor have we been stranded due to weather. I am reminded how Jesus stilled the waters for the disciples when they became frightened in the boat as it tossed around on the waves. In the same way, God has kept us safe through rain, sleet, ice, snow, fog, heavy traffic and inattentive drivers doing too many other things while trying to drive the highways.
Thanks to all of you for your constant prayers; they are needed and appreciated.
Blessings,
Joyce and Tim
Monday, February 18, 2008
February 18, 2008
Hello Friends,
We are in Iowa and it is very cold here; we've been on the road for the past two weeks between Michigan and Iowa. We have seen a lot of snow and have safely traveled many miles over snow and ice covered roads. PTL.
I am enjoying being in Iowa and spending time with Jenn, our oldest daughter. She is a reporter and we watch her on the evening news each day; I can't believe how grown up and professional she is. I often wonder where all those years went when they were little and at home with us. I miss those days.
Another thing I am enjoying is seeing the snow; I know that may sound crazy to many of you. However, it's a beautiful sight to see fields and trees covered with white snow glistening in the sunlight; it will be our last winter for four years. I won't miss the "mess" of winter but I do miss the seasons when we are in Africa. Fall is my favorite time of the year and during the months of September - November I have magazines in Africa that have beautiful Fall pictures in them that I place out on my table. It's not exactly the same but it's the closest I can get.
Thanks for all of your prayers and support; we keep on pressing towards the goal. I will try to start blogging more frequently and sharing not only the itineration news but share with you some of my thoughts and feelings as we continue traveling down the path God has placed in front of us.
Be blessed!
Joyce
We are in Iowa and it is very cold here; we've been on the road for the past two weeks between Michigan and Iowa. We have seen a lot of snow and have safely traveled many miles over snow and ice covered roads. PTL.
I am enjoying being in Iowa and spending time with Jenn, our oldest daughter. She is a reporter and we watch her on the evening news each day; I can't believe how grown up and professional she is. I often wonder where all those years went when they were little and at home with us. I miss those days.
Another thing I am enjoying is seeing the snow; I know that may sound crazy to many of you. However, it's a beautiful sight to see fields and trees covered with white snow glistening in the sunlight; it will be our last winter for four years. I won't miss the "mess" of winter but I do miss the seasons when we are in Africa. Fall is my favorite time of the year and during the months of September - November I have magazines in Africa that have beautiful Fall pictures in them that I place out on my table. It's not exactly the same but it's the closest I can get.
Thanks for all of your prayers and support; we keep on pressing towards the goal. I will try to start blogging more frequently and sharing not only the itineration news but share with you some of my thoughts and feelings as we continue traveling down the path God has placed in front of us.
Be blessed!
Joyce
Monday, January 28, 2008
January 28, 2008
Dear Friends,
We are busy calling churches in the Southern Missouri, Iowa, and Kansas districts; we try to keep a regular schedule each day to make these contacts with churches, pastors, and Mission's Directors.
We had three services here in Missouri this past week, one on Wednesday evening and two yesterday (Sunday); we are enjoying getting to know churches in the Southern Missouri District.
Please continue to pray for us as we work to finish raising our funds as quickly as possible; we know that God is with us as we continue to be obedient to His call.
We are busy calling churches in the Southern Missouri, Iowa, and Kansas districts; we try to keep a regular schedule each day to make these contacts with churches, pastors, and Mission's Directors.
We had three services here in Missouri this past week, one on Wednesday evening and two yesterday (Sunday); we are enjoying getting to know churches in the Southern Missouri District.
Please continue to pray for us as we work to finish raising our funds as quickly as possible; we know that God is with us as we continue to be obedient to His call.
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