“Turn Yourself to me, and have mercy on me, for I am desolate [lonely] and afflicted” (Psalm 25:16).
Dear Praying Friends:
David suffers not only pain but extreme isolation. No one understands. No one can help him.
He points us toward Jesus, who, all during his ministry, but supremely during the last twenty-four hours, endured not only multiform agony but a sense of alienation, even from God the Father.
That is why we can turn to Christ in our times of trouble: He can “sympathize with our weaknesses,” [because he] “was in all points tempted as we are, yet without sin” (Hebrews 4:15). And because of his vicarious suffering, we do not have to experience any separation from God (Romans 8:31-39).
Though I have had a typical share of troubles – though nothing compared to people whom I know or those undergoing persecution in China, India, and elsewhere – I do not feel lonely. In addition to Dori, who is always there for me, I have about ten men to whom I can turn for advice, encouragement, and prayer.
Among them are the members of our board of directors, who met virtually yesterday. They read my reports, listen to my oral expansion on them, provide priceless counsel, help me to correct mistakes, and protect me from worse errors. I thank God for their faithful service.
Our meetings, held three times a year, almost always encourage me. They also serve other vital purposes:
Preparation for them requires me to review and reflect upon my performance during the previous few months; connect with our China Institute Partners, Global China Center Associates, part-time assistants, and the board members themselves; and think about possible priorities for the future.
In my report, I try to keep our mission vision in focus.
We begin with a 30-minute time of sharing and prayer among the board members, to strengthen and support each other individually and as a team. I love to hear how God is using each of them in significant ministries.
With the help of our Director of Finance and Administration, they enable us to fulfill our fiduciary responsibilities, both fiscal and legal, as stewards of this ministry.
During the 2 ½ hour conference, we stop to pray for all our people. I was happy that we could do more of that yesterday.
We conclude by identifying actions that need to be taken.
Sometimes, like yesterday, they highlight an area of my life that needs correction and growth.
The Lord has used these faithful friends throughout the years, and I am grateful for them.
Yours in the One who knows,
Wright