SACRIFICE.
This word permeates the good news of Jesus Christ: that our Creator came to earth to live a sinless life and to die in my place–and yours—so that we might have eternal life and a right relationship with God. It is almost impossible to reflect on the events of “Holy Week” in anticipation of Easter and to miss the central aspect of sacrifice. Philippians 2:5 tells us Christ’s mindset is to be our own; sacrifice is to be the way of life of the Christian (a title which means “little Christ”). To be like Jesus (Romans 8:29)is to be a person of sacrifice.
Sacrifices were made by 20 students and three staff as they recently served for 9 days on Idaho’s Nez Perce reservation for the annual “Ministry Immersion Trip”. They ministered in five churches, were live on the local radio station, and completed numerous work projects to serve the Nez Perce people. This praise report of the trip was given by one of the senior students:
The highlight of this year’s MIT was the student leadership and servant-hearts of the student body. We kept each other encouraged and reminded one another to serve unto the Lord and do our best, whether that be scrubbing toilets or sharing our testimony. Students were always willing to help wherever they could even without being asked.
Some of the tasks I participated in were cleaning the churches, painting the bathrooms, organizing the food bank, and taking any opportunity to engage with the community AND to learn from them.
The churches were so blessed and encouraged to see young Native believers that they wanted to bless us with songs, prayers and finances!
Sacrifice is what drives the 22 full-time and part-time staff that raise support or serve as volunteers at the Indian Bible College. Sacrifice is what my family paid in the separation during my recent nine day trip to Alaska, Washington, and Idaho (which was very fruitful—thanks for your prayers!)
On the Spokane reservation
Sacrifices are constantly being made by the hundreds of people that pray for, give to, and volunteer at the Indian Bible College. It is truly amazing to see the monumental efforts of so many to see a few Native people discipled and trained so well without college debt.
Thank you for the sacrifices you make for IBC students!
A couple of prayer requests:
- Now that the Ministry Immersion Trip and Spring Break are over, classes resume tomorrow for the last five weeks of school. Pray for the students as they finish up the school year and make their summer plans of ministry or work.
- Pray for protection from the enemy’s attacks, as the devil is trying hard to sow seeds of discord among the staff.
- Pray for wisdom for myself and the vice-presidents as we develop campus expansion plans.
May the Lord bless you this week as you respond in worship and sacrifice to the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. He is Risen! We are saved from sin’s penalty and sin’s power!
Jason Koppen