Around the Ministry
  David Ausmann has a part in international ministry right on the campus of Penn State. Chris* came to Penn State University to pursue a degree in electrical engineering. Part of his goal, was to develop skills that he could apply in his mother’s computer business in Asia when he returned. But Chris came to the United States for much more than just an education in electrical engineering. When David Ausmann, who labors with The Navigators at Penn State, first met Chris, he asked him why he had decided to come to this country to study. Chris replied, “Because there are Christians in America.” Over time, Chris and David have cooked out, played tennis, and even polished their business skills with rousing games of Monopoly. But one of the most important activities—for both men—has been their study of the Bible and its central character: Jesus. “Besides our weekly Bible study in the Gospel of John,” says David, “Chris and I have had opportunities to meet one-on-one to talk about what it means to follow Christ.” David says that meeting with Chris is a joy, and that Chris often has communicated that he “loves our Bible study because he says he can ask questions and work through his thoughts carefully.” Chris is developing a genuine longing for God. “Each time we meet,” says David, “I see him yearn to know more about Jesus.” Chris is getting so much more than an education in electrical engineering! *Not his real name |
 Being involved in students’ lives has been a part of The Navigators for more than 50 years.Jill and Rick Feldkamp were surprised when one of their international friends recognized a familiar Bible passage.  Maybe it’s their enthusiasm for life and their eagerness to learn, or the potential for the future they embody. Whatever it is, being a part of students’ lives—living, sharing, listening, teaching—is something Navigators have been excited to do for more than 50 years. It’s particularly rewarding to hear what our involvement with students means to them. Students at Penn State University recently shared about their involvement with Navigators Justin and Jonna Hester.
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  Daniel (left) is grateful to God for the things God used to bring about change in his life, including Trevor (right) and a small plastic disc! A few months ago, we described how Navigator Trevor Holder used robust games of “Ultimate Frisbee” to build relationships with students at Miami University. One of the students, Daniel, began meeting with Trevor weekly to read the Bible and discuss his questions and observations about who Jesus is and what He wants from us. Several months—and multiple discussions—later, Daniel approached Trevor and said, “Let’s do this!” Trevor had been sensing a change in Daniel’s heart, but Daniel was a bit apprehensive about confirming what Trevor had observed. That all changed when Daniel asked Christ to make him a new creation. Trevor shared with Daniel that it wasn’t just his involvement that played a significant role in what had transpired. He told him about the many people who had been praying for him during this time. In describing his spiritual journey, Daniel shared, “What I needed most was not some charismatic preacher or a particularly profound Bible study. What I needed was a peer with wisdom in the matter, with whom I could meet in the context of ‘boys-being-boys’ on the Frisbee field.” “I found people that accept me unconditionally as a person,” says Daniel. “I now feel my life has purpose and direction and finally I hear the truth. I have God to thank for that—and Trevor and a little plastic disc!” |
 Navigator Debbie Friley (center) is always looking for opportunities to share her faith and establish new believers.  Debbie Friley, with The Navigators’ Metro Mission in the Tampa Bay area, is always looking for opportunities to share her faith. On a recent flight with no assigned seating, she prayed before sitting near the front of the plane, but immediately sensed God urging her to move. So—still praying—she continued walking and sat next to Charlene. “God gave us a wonderful rapport,” said Debbie. “She shared that her dad, who had recently died, had urged her to start a relationship with God.” Charlene’s sister had been doing the same—but Charlene didn’t understand. “I asked her if she wanted me to explain,” said Debbie. “I shared my testimony, explained the Gospel, and answered her questions.” When Charlene told Debbie that she was ready to receive Christ, the two women prayed together. Debbie wasn’t finished. “I taught Charlene how to have a quiet time, gave her a Bible and some spiritual growth materials,” said Debbie. “I told her that our time together was the fruit of the prayers of her dad and sister and others!” The two women stayed in touch and Charlene told Debbie, “I’m joining a Sunday school class to learn to understand the Bible. This is all new to me but I think my journey is going great!” What a great reminder to, “Preach the Word; be prepared in season and out of season . . .” (2 Timothy 4:2). |
 There’s something powerful about the Christians described in the book of Acts. The people among whom they lived found these Christ followers impossible to overlook. Their lives and message were intertwined. Maybe that’s why Luke recorded “. . . the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved” (Acts 2:47). Doug Nuenke President of the U.S. Navigators Something powerful happens when Christians live in community. David wrote, “How good and pleasant it is when brothers live together in unity” (Psalm 133:1). People can argue with your theology, but they can’t argue with the power of your relationships. Something wonderful happens when we engage in life together as fellow Christ followers. Jesus said, “For where two or three come together in my name, there I am with them” (Matthew 18:20). When we live in community, Jesus is present. Do people see the power of God at work in our relationships? Let’s commit ourselves to making that so! It’s key to advancing the Gospel and to the Lord adding to our numbers. |
