October, 2007 Newsletter
Travel News
Busy, busy, busy… that would about describe the last few months to a tee. We have been to 12 different churches all over the state of Indiana and the surrounding states.
The first part of September I preached a 4 day revival in Marion, IN, two weeks ago we were at a church in Indy, and last week we were in Greencastle, IN. We are planning another trip to some southern states in the next few weeks to share what God is doing here in our state.
Throughout all of our travels we make a concerted effort to be home each Thursday and Friday for the weekly chapel and Bible study times in the Statehouse. I count the folks that attend great friends. It is exciting to see people in the Statehouse community that have a hunger for the Word of God and applying it to life! While I am not able to share personal stories, suffice it to say that I am thrilled to see the fruitful rewards, of our labor. 1 Corinthians. 3:7
Legislative News
We are coming up on a very busy time for these staffers, lobbyists, and legislators. The first day of session is in the middle of November with the session in full swing by the first part of January. They are currently dealing with a very complicated property tax situation in the state of Indiana that is not going to be solved easily. All of these public servants need our prayers.
Prayer Focus
Election Day for local governments in Indiana is also coming soon. The Secretary of State is responsible for the voting systems and making sure election laws are followed. Please pray for Secretary of State Todd Rokita and his office as they administer their respective duties. We need to remember to thank God for the opportunity we have in our country to choose our own leaders, and be grateful that we do not have great political unrest when an election takes place.
Speaking of unrest, I am continuing to try to follow the Burmese orphan’s progress. Remember that these are the orphaned children of Christians who have been martyred for their faith. Two of them have been safely settled in the U.S. Pray for their adjustment to life in the states and for the other thirty four who hope to come soon. Pray for safety as most of these children are still refugees in Thailand and sadly it seems that more children will be coming across the border soon.
Other Prayer Requests
It is truly an honor to be a part of God’s work. It is also exhausting. I was recently asked how someone could pray for me and the ministry. I responded with three simple things – my family, continued boldness and confidence, and for more laborers. The fields are truly white to harvest but the laborers are few! I would only add to the list health and strength for my family and me. It is not easy to be on the road so much. I am very thankful for a wonderful wife who supports me and this ministry, while making sure we train our children to be His disciples as well.
Praise report
Once again, thanks to all of you who have given of your time and resources to further the work of the Lord in the Statehouse arena. God continues to supply our every need through His people. Thank you and Praise the Lord!
In Christ’s Service,
Rev. Matthew Barnes
