Thursday, June 08, 2006
June Update
Just a reminder we look forward to meeting this Sunday evening, June
11th at 6 p.m. for Worship at the River. We are continuing to explore
themes from the Lord's Prayer, with this Sunday's focus on: "lead us not into
temptation." Admittedly, this "temptation" aspect of the Lord's Prayer
is intriguing, and we look forward to the revelation God has for us
this Sunday.
Legendary Green Bay Packers coach Vince Lombardi started every season
with a team meeting. Surrounded by veterans and rookies alike, he
would hold a football high above his head so that each player could
see it. With all eyes on him, he simply said: "Gentlemen, this is a
football." This was Coach Lombardi's way of reminding all of his
players that success begins with a clear understanding of the basics.
Everything began with: "This is a football."
When Jesus was asked what the most important commandment was, He replied:
"The most important one," answered Jesus, "is this: 'Hear, O Israel,
the Lord our God, the Lord is one. Love the Lord your God with
all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with
all your strength.
For me, this is the Lord's "football" speech. For many of us, "love
the Lord your God…" has been reduced to external activity; to a weekly event
where we depend on professionals to "play" for us, as we learned to
safely cheer from our stadium seats. We have emphasized performance,
technique, and other "soulish" activity. We have lost sight of the
fundamental truth worship is not just for those who "qualify" with
refined voices, posses exceptional instrumental ability, or amassed a
large worship CD collection. Actually, the Lord is inviting all of us
to join the game.
But how do you get in the game?
Perhaps you meet with a few people and you may have struggled with:
"There's no one here who can play an instrument"….or
"We can't sing …or we're never in tune….or
"I'm intimidated by other's ability…I have lost confidence…how do we
get started…?
As one who has been a "professional" in church music and worship for
almost 3 decades, I admit I am "unlearning" much of my accumulated
knowledge. But as Coach Lombardi's men heard at the beginning of each
season, I am learning to discern a clear understanding
of the basics. And they don't have much to do with musical ability or
a CD collection. They are matters of the heart. Really, I've been
learning the truth of Matt Redman's song: "I'm coming back to the
Heart of Worship….and it's all about …Jesus." That truth is clear and
fundamental and basic. True football…first commandment stuff.
We believe people are moving from spectators to players, and the
unique contribution the Lord created in each is a reflection of the
nature of God, which is an essential part of "being in the game."
Many of us are learning to "play" at Worship at the River events as
well as other gatherings. We sense the Lord is calling for more and
more "players" not necessarily to play in our particular game (event),
but in the game God has for each of us.
For three consecutive Saturdays (June 17th ,24th and July 1st) from
7 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. beginning at Calvary Assembly of God, we'll
practice this "football" stuff. It will be simple, intensive and practical
teaching focused not only on theory, but on the "doing". These
gatherings will not be formal, but relational in approach and design.
We believe the Holy Spirit will bring encouragement, equipping, and
release of the unique song God has placed within you. Several
player/coaches including Bill Petersen, Dan Lute (pastor at Calvary),
as well as myself will share. We will discover together what God wants
to teach us. There is no cost, but we will give you an opportunity to
give an offering to cover any expenses.
We bless you, and look forward to seeing many of you in the next days!
From two players doing their best to learn the basics.....
Darrell and Carlene Dahlman
Pacificministries
PO BOX 1351
Fairview OR 97024
Pacificministries@gmail.com
Worship Intensive
June 17th, 24th and July 1st
Calvary Temple Assembly of God
10224 SE Division St
Portland, OR 97266-1328
(503) 253-2827
Directions: Directions: Across from the Christian Supply Bookstore
Tuesday, May 09, 2006
Pacificministrie May Update
Just a reminder of this Sundays Worship at the River meeting in Troutdale. We anticipate focusing on the theme: forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. As you may remember, we are taking a phrase from the Lord's Prayer and are focusing each month on that truth. We are praying into each theme, and our expectation is that the Holy Spirit will teach us and guide us into His design for the evening.
Recently, I was privileged to be a part of the Portland House of Prayer worship being held at Calvary Assembly of God. I was blessed and encouraged to know that God has a remnant of worshipers in Portland, this City of Roses. I was reminded that God has a redemptive purpose and plan for each of us, both corporately and individually. I know there are groups of worshipers meeting throughout the city. And I'm glad to be a part of the passionate choir.
For those of you who have been exposed to the Ministry of the Kansas City International House of Prayer, you'll know that Mike Bickel often refers to the early years of Ministry to the Lord in a 24-hour setting as: "little, rough, and ugly." Frankly, I like "little, rough, and ugly".... there is something very appealing about hungry and passionate worshipers whose only agenda is pursuing God and Him alone, no matter how is sounds or what it looks like.
For those of you who were a part of our Seder celebration dinner last month, you remember what a privilege and blessing it was to have Jim Watt with us. Your generous offering covered an unexpected expense for Jims wife, Marie. They were grateful to the Lord for His provision. Many of us also were with Jean Darnell in meetings held in Toledo, Oregon last week. Erin and Kelly Leggett were able to join us during worship. Our spontaneous worship centered on Hebrews 11, which Kelly had been led to sing...and it was the very theme Jean spoke from. We honor the Lord for His confirmation and faithfulness to speak so clearly through these jars of clay. It is our desire to honor and celebrate the rich truth and heritage contained in these pioneering saints.
We thank you for your prayers and financial support during these months, especially as we have been on the road a fair amount. This months forgiveness theme is God's desire for all of us to walk in the freedom from past hurts, bitterness, and pain. In essence, it is a prayer of repentance and renewal....may we become a people who are known for our love and our willingness to forgive.
Bless you,
Darrell and Carlene
Upcoming events of interest:
May 27
The ministry of Arthur Burke, who has organization called Plumbline Ministries, has impacted many of us. He has done pioneering work in the areas of intercession, healing of the human spirit, and redemptive gifts of nations and cities. He is holding a seminar "Healing the Human Spirit".....with limited registrants Sat. May 27th.
Registration for the Oregon event is $85 per person. You can registeronline here:
www.plumblineministries.com/healing_the_human_spirit___may_27>June 9-11
Friday - Sunday An Intimate Weekend with Graham Cooke
Please refer to www.wildbranchministries.com for the conference schedule.
For registration information: mgaleotti@mac.com
June 11 6pm
Worship at the River And lead us not into temptation
The remaining themes of 2006:
July 9th deliver us from the evil one
August 13th Yours is the Kingdom
September 10th and the power
October 8th and the glory
November 12th forever...
December 10th AMEN!!
Friday, February 24, 2006
Final
I have just returned from ministering in a pioneer church plant East of Taejon. It is a little after midnight and I wanted to conclude these updates, as we leave for the airport at 10 am for the long flight to LA. I will speak (Jean and Carlene will rest) at Pastor David Kim's Church in Koreatown for 2 Sunday morning and one afternoon service, before returning to Portland.
It has been a joy to travel and minister with Jean. She is a true prophetic voice to the Church, and her ministry in the Holy Spirit is accurate and penetrating. Many pastors would like to "kidnap her" and have her stay in Korea indefinitely. I (Darrell) have several times, been off to a few other assignments, but most of our time has been in support of her ministry. As she prayed for some 30 students yesterday afternoon, I quietly stood beside her with my hand on her back. As she was praying for one of them , I took my hand away for a moment, and she quickly grabbed my hand and firmly placed it back. I needed no other hint....I knew she valued the prayer support, and every moment wanted the assurance we were standing with her.
Especially moving was to hear stories of how the Lord has used her for nearly 70 years, from a young 16 year old girl preaching a 3 week healing/revival gathering in the hills of West Virginia in 1936, to Aimee McPherson laying her hands on Jean and Elmer for commissioning to South America....to her work as one of the millions of "Rosie the Riveter" factory workers on B-52's (keeping the home fires burning during WW II), to the years of ministry during the Charismatic move in England in the 60's and 70's..to the grandson of Charles Parnum (of Azusa Street) giving Jean a prophetic word in a Malt shop in Hollywood....get the idea?
I want to send you an unedited version of a prophetic word Jean gave Thursday afternoon. This was not taped, but I did write it down as best I remember. I believe, as she does, that it has broad application for the next season of the Church.....not just in Asia, but all over the world. Perhaps you might sense the flavor of the ministry we have experienced the last several days. You might sense a personal application...I know I do.
Jean Darnall....Taejon South Korea, Thursday, February 23, 2006
I believe there are here....among us, ministries that will affect nations....ministries that will bring order out of chaos. You will see Kingdom power restored...order...healing. You will have favor with authorities and will raise the level of righteousness. I see overturned idols...their very foundations are shaken...overturned....destroyed...and demons flee in panic. I see ancient religions uprooted....overturned in the context of international distress. You will walk with dignity because you belong to the Kingdom of God. You are sent as ambassadors to nations who have lost their idols...and they will look to you. God will be your Protection...Preservation....and Provider.
Bless you....and please continue to pray for a safe and healthy re-entry. We have so enjoyed this trip....and have felt your prayers have given us much protection.
Thank you...or er, Kimsameda (I know that's not right spelling)
For...Jean and Carlene...
Darrell
Korea 3
This will be short....but many thanks to those who have prayed. Jean finished 3 days of speaking and each day the Holy Spirit unwrapped more of His desire to equip and challenge the Korean Church....actually all areas of business, education, media, mercy ministries and government, to be the forerunners for "repaying the spiritual debt" when the North Korea walls come down. Many pastors were challenged and there was a discernible sense the message was delivered with clarity and order.
Carlene and I are a bit undone, as we identified and witnessed to much of what Jean has delivered....sobering but exciting at the same time. She told many stories of how God was faithful to the vision in so many areas of the world where she has been. One of my students impacted by the Holy Spirit of several years ago had a vision of 3 stars....representing Sakhalin (Russia), Japan, and China....being sent from Korea....and Jean, Carlene, and I prayed for Gema...a new pastor beginning a work in Russia, and another brother from Korea who is today making the trip with his family to Japan. We were blessed.
Today we will share the the students and young people in University and, I (Darrell) will speak tonight and tomorrow in evening meetings. I shared at the Wed. evening service last night while Jean and Carlene rested.
Bless you...and please pray for:
Healing of travel-weary bodies....
Ministry anointed of the Holy Spirit
Specific Words of encouragement for students and intercessors
Also...for a young woman Carlene and I have met...several times...who is in a very desperate situation....great disappointment and is in need of God's intervention and grace....that's about all I can share....
From Taejon....
Darrell
Tuesday, February 21, 2006
Korea 2006
I want to include you in email updates for the next 10 days or so, as Carlene and I, and Jean Darnall will be in Korea for a National Pastors Conference as well as speaking in various churches and at Asia Life University.
I have learned to unashamedly ask for Prayer covering during any overseas ministry. Let me be very specific...we need you prayers for:
Good Health and Travel Safety. Jean is a "young" 80 +...and Carlene's specific task is to literally walk with her and tend to her physical needs.
Accurate Hearing. We are ministering as a kind of "tag team"...it's my favorite kind of ministry. We anticipate and desire to express God's heart and desire for these Korean leaders.
Rest. We recognize the Lord will be pleased as we minister out of a place of peace and rest.
I have been to Asia 10 times over the past 4 years....and in some ways, all the previous travel have been "plowing ground" for such a time as this. Jean is one of our "heroes in the faith" and we feel it is an honor and privilege to serve with her. This is a new season, and we believe there is an open door to move into destiny.
Our Schedule:
2/17 Travel and arrive in Seoul 5pm
2/18 am I, (Darrell) speak in a Church in Seoul
pm We all are at Tejeon Foursquare in Tejeon (3 hrs south of Seoul)
2/19-22 Pastors conference
2/23 Asia Life University
2/25 Home...
Thank you for praying.....
Bless you,
Darrell
PS One of the greatest joys on an mission trip is to receive replys...words of confirmation and encouragement....We'd love to hear from you!
Monday, February 20, 2006
Thank you for your response and prayers for this strategic trip. Increasingly, there is an awareness of the need for a corporate "blanket" of prayer for the task at hand.Jean, Carlene and I made all our connections and the flight was smooth and we have all adjusted to the time changes.
I spoke at Bethel Church...an independent 2000 member Pentecostal work which began some 50 years ago and is pastored by the founder's son, Joshua. An appropriate name as rarely have I felt so "at home" so quickly and had such a favorable response to a message of encouragement from Is. 40 of renewed strength. The pastor interpreted for me and I had several friends from other areas in Seoul visit for the morning service. Joshua had an interesting comment...."it's so interesting to hear you...a speaker from America say the same things I have....and it is received so well..." There is a definite kindred spirit and we'll be back.
I took a Korean "bullet train" to Deajeon..a 3 hr.trip by car...but for me only 50 min....at 300 k/hr.
I met Jean and Carlene as they rested during the morning and Jean spoke to the church that evening on renewed vision....she gave a strong prophetic word to the church regarding compassion and mercy ministries which must be in place when the 2 Korea's are united. Carlene and I prayed for several and especially for a women in her 30's with inoperable liver cancer.
The next day (Monday) we traveled to Korea's only ski resort which is the host site for the Foursquare pastors retreat, and Jean continued with the theme of vision, with her own story of how the Lord led her and Elmer to establish churches, Bible schools, and other intra-denominational works in S. America, the States, England, Australia, Hong Kong...her and Elmers "Kingdom footsteps" are all over the world.
Especially moving for Carlene and I is to witness Mrs. Ahn, (the founder of Foursquare Korea and only one year apart from Jean), literally embrace and greet Jean with a holy kiss. We see these 2 Kingdom pioneers coming together as heavenly diplomats with the same heart and servant attitude as strategic for such a time as this. Perhaps it is also a symbolic partnering of what the Lord wants to do with this nation. Last night, she gave a strong prophetic word to the nation....later I'll transcribe it for an update.
We bless you....and thank you for praying for:
Continued health and energy for Jean (she has spoken on her feet for 1 1/2 hrs)
Holy boldness to speak what the Holy Spirit would say
Specific words of encouragement for the pastors and leaders
Bless you ....from Muji Resort....
Darrell
Wednesday, December 07, 2005
Merry Christmas
Merry Christmas!!!
Thank you for praying for the many connections as well as the Lord's safety for both of us (Carlene carried the responsibilities of home) during my 15 day trip to Korea last month. I shared in 5 different churches and classroom settings, and continually sensed His leading every moment. I am particularly excited about a renewed emphasis to intercede for North Korea.
We (representing the Portland area worship/intercessors) connected with family and new friends in the Olympic Peninsula this past weekend, and tonight, I begin a 5th year of ministry at the Portland Airport....worshipping literally in the "Oregon Marketplace." While much of my time will be spent beyond the security checkpoints, I will play Monday, Dec. 12th and 19th and Friday Dec. 23rd from 11am to 8pm in the public food court...you are welcome to join me. Please email or call to confirm if you plan to come out to the airport.
Also, these weeks mark a "renewed" chapter in my life....as after 26 years, I felt the Lord asked me to re-enter the public school system and work occasionally as a guest teacher. I have been busy these past days in several grade schools and a middle school. It's been an adventure and a challenge....but very good. Carlene continues her work at Mt Hood Community College and volunteers at My Father's House (a homeless shelter) and Chestnut Lane, (an assisted living home for the deaf.) All our children are doing well.
Remember, there will be no Worship at the River this coming Sunday, December 11th. Instead, we will be having a Worship Celebration on Friday, December 16th. We’ll have dinner and worship together at A Special Place in Gresham. Doors open at 6:30 for fellowship, dinner will be served at 7:00PM. The cost of the prime rib dinner is $18.00 per ticket.
Reservations for dinner need to be made immediately. You may call Delight at 503-380-7203 or e-mail her at delightpete@yahoo.com if you plan to attend. We look forward to being together with you during this special season.
Thank you for praying and supporting our family.
In His Love,
Darrell and Carlene Dahlman
P.S.
Sunday, November 27, 2005
Land of the Morning Calm
This is most likely the final note I'll send from the Korea..."Land of the Morning Calm".
There are so many wonderful experiences I could could share...but let me just tell you about this Sunday morning:
First, I felt the Lord wanted me to gather up a plastic bag filled with dry leaves. This is truly a beautiful country with beautiful people...and the fall is especially rich in color. During my talk, I encouraged the church that the Father's love is a rich inheritance.....and that he has not discarded them, as a country or as individuals, but that He desired to "fill this Land with the Father's Glory...so Blaze Spirit Blaze set hearts on fire".
I passed the bag around and each one took one of the leaves....some were brittle..or large...others small with differing shapes and colors...but all unique and one-of-a-kind in their own way. The message was that God has not forgotten them, and that His intent was to pour out His Spirit and to release them into the destiny He has for them. 100 years ago, at the same time in Wales and in Azusa Street in LA, there was a mighty move of God in North Korea, where most of the Christians then lived. We believe another such move is coming.
The Lord has a redemptive purpose for this Land...even though it is "dry and barren". I used my leaf and literally set it ablaze as an illustration of our lives being consumed by Him. As a drink offering or precious perfume, we become a sweet smelling fragrance of His Presence. I told them one of my favorite smells was burning leaves...as it reminded me of raking leaves into a big pile, jumping into the pile...and eventually setting the whole thing on fire. (Oh the memories of the Midwest and the joy of Autumn...want to forget the winter) I believe this is such a season of spiritual harvest. Soon, the room filled with the fragrance of my "burning leaf" , and with it, a palatable sense of God's rich promise for the Korean people. (besides that, it was fun!)
Thank you for praying....I'll return Tuesday and give a detailed summary in a few days.
Bless you!!
Darrell
Saturday, November 26, 2005
Tonight concludes an amazing three days of renewed friendships with the church in Deajeon. I spoke to this Foursquare flagship church in Korea on Wed. evening on the richness of spiritual inheritance. I referred and acknowledged Sister Ahn...now in her 80's... who has not lost her fire for the Holy Spirit's move in this ministry she began over 50 years ago. Sam, now the Sr. Pastor, interpreted for me, and I acknowledged the wealth of investment in the Kingdom....the "great cloud of witnesses" we know have laid a spiritual foundation. Their ceiling has become our floorThese folks have truly been family, and Jean Darnall (another honored pioneer in the faith) together with Carlene and I, will visit again in February for an annual national pastors conference. Sam Ahn feels this gathering is pivotal for their fellowship, and in some ways, I feel I may have been part of an advance team in preparation for February. (I even went to the famous early morning prayer meeting!)
I spoke with a class of international students at Asia Life University, the school associated with this movement. Students represented India, China, Nepal, Taiwan, and other countries. I asked all of them to share what they feel the most important thing God is doing in the earth today...and assured them there was no "wrong" answer. Many responded with....evangelism, grace, worship, etc...all good things. I shared that what the Holy Spirit has been teaching many of us....is the fact He is wooing His Bride. The revelation of the Love of Jesus for us is beginning to affect every aspect of life.
Tonight was the Friday evening prayer gathering, and once again I felt the Lord has a special destiny and grace for prayer that He has bestowed on these beautiful people.
Thank you for praying...am sleeping well...except missing Carlene!!! Have experienced much laughter...grace...provision....blessing...and sense His Hand in the slightest detail. As I have been often asked to pray for many...the Lord continues to give specific words of encouragement and comfort....love when He does that.
Getting ready to see home....and people here can NOT understand why Americans eat turkey (the bird is not eaten here), and I have refrained from the smart reply observing what I've seen put before me in restaurants...but, I held my tongue. Nevertheless, I'm ready for Thanksgiving, albeit 5 days late!
Darrell
Tuesday, November 22, 2005
Korea 2005 # 4
Thank you for continuing to pray for this ministry. Daily I see evidence of God's direction and blessing. I spoke to an English "learning" pastors meeting on Monday. They meet in a home of a pastor, Holyfield, who also serves as one of my primary interpreters. We had "American style" pizza ( believe me....most of you would be surprised what these creative Koreans put on pizza). I shared my heart for North Korea and one of the women began to cry, as her brother (from South Korea) is in the North (for reasons I don't quite understand). I spoke of God's love for her and her family....it was wonderful.
I traveled to the city of Ansun....north of Seoul for 2 days at Calvary Church. This wonderful group meets in a 3 story building complete with housing and large kitchen as they are called to serve the poor of the city. Currently they house some 40 people. I woke up at 5 am to the sound of worship...as they all meet in their traditional style early morning pray meeting. Good alarm clock!
Today I travel to Deajeon....to see what has become our second family....Sarah, Sam, Sungkwan and Mrs. Ahn...founders of the Foursquare Church here in Korea.
Bless you....and will share a bit more later. Again...thank you for praying!
Darrell
Korea 2005 #3
Just a quick note....again, thank you for praying. Last night I spoke in the afternoon and evening at an established traditional church...with a brand new building. It is a beautiful structure...but I felt the Lord wanted to communicate with passion, how much He loves the "individual temple" and that He has a dream and destiny for them. I communicated this with, I guess, a new measure of intensity..kind of surprised myself..the the entire church (100 or so) came before the Lord at the altar. Then, I prayed over individuals before home @ 11:30 pm (am staying with Pastor ...in his home the entire time I am here, I like being served American breakfast in the morning!) The pastor is facing much opposition in his decision to follow the Holy Spirit. He and his wife were in Kansas City at the House of Prayer....and she has a vision for establishing one here. Today will share the challenge of learning how to BE rather that DO...still learning that truth myself.
I will be at this same church today...afternoon and evening....then meet with several who have ministries in North Korea.
Bless all of you! Thank you for praying!
Darrell
Friday, November 18, 2005
Alert!!!
This will be a quick note....it is 11am Sat...and this afternoon I'd like to invite you to pray for a very important and strategic meeting that I feel the Lord has arranged. Carlene and I met E. several months ago..she is an intercessor with a mission to stand in the gap as she is from North Korea. She has a strong calling on her life...and I feel will be instrumental in the establishment of an altar of worship in her land. I will introduce her to P. (who we met in the states..he regularly visits North Korea and lives in China.) We all "happened" to be in the same place and time.....here in Seoul. We simply want to foster a friendship, worship and pray together....as I feel there is a divine plan the Lord will begin to unwrap.
I am so grateful to the Lord for allowing us to form friendships with our common passion...the worship of the One who created heaven and earth. The last 2 visits we have made to Korea have also coincided with governmental visits from leaders in America. Condolessa Rice was here the same time last March, and yesterday, President Bush was speaking just 1 hour away from the city where I spoke the last several days. I heard on the news he used some of the same language to describe North Korea as I have . My message is not political...but I believe the Lord wants to bring spiritual as well as natural healing to the whole nation of Korea. I am glad to be a small part.
Thank you for praying...I feel very energized...even walked for 2 hours this morning.....and was rewarded with finding a Starbucks.....except they have no "venti" size....their large is our small...hmmmmm, in more ways than one.
Bless you...
Darrell
PS I may not get to email much the next days...will speak 3 times Sunday...Mon. all day pastors meeting..Mon. pm and twice Tue...then to Taejon (Central part of Korea) Wed-Sat. God is good!
Wednesday, November 16, 2005
#2
Darrell
As a worshiper I receive many vision pictures as I worship whether it's when I flag, sing, dance, lay prostrate, as you know it's just being fully in His Presence that He speaks most clearly to our spirits. This is what I saw:
I was on a plane and feeling physically very ants-y, like my legs had endured sitting long enough, the stewardess stopped by my seat and asked if there was anything I needed. I replied, "just let me walk on the wing for awhile." (I actually have said this a few times on long flights for mission trips.) In the vision, I was then walking on the metal wing, and it turned into a huge bird wing, golden as I looked out the length of it, and knew it was a huge golden eagles wing. The Lord said to me, I will bear you up on eagles wings. I looked down at my feet and the wing turned to a glistening white irridescent glow like the brightest that all the colors can be, probably similar to the crystal sea of the heavenly realm.
As the service continued I pondered more and then look into the scripture that states those same words.
Here it is for you:
Exodus 19:4-6 (ampl.) You have seen what I did to the Egyptians, and how I bore you on eagles' wings and brought you to Myself. Now therefore, if you will obey My voice in truth and keep My covenant, then you shall be My own pecuiar possession and treasure from among and above all peoples; for the earth is Mine. And you shall be to Me a kingdom of priests, a holy nation consecrated, set apart to the worship of God). These are the words you shall speak to the Israelites.
There are those called to a higher level of covenant to show forth the Beauty of Holiness through consecrated lifestyles of Worship to the one True God. When the authentic is manifest (through us), then any forms of false worship must bow and retreat. This is what the Lord has been speaking to me loudly concerning all the forms of worship, for me especially in using/making cloth artforms. I see yours as a holiness voice and pure instruments as you place your hands to guitars, drums, and keyboards, and sing forth the Glories of the Lord.
Blessings on all that you do and are on your mission trip, I will continue to uphold you before the Lord and war on behalf of True worship coming forth in Korea in greater and increasing measure!
Korea 2005 #1
First of all...many thanks to those who responded to my invitation to keep this ministry before the Lord. I cannot express how "different" these days feel. It is a bit subjective, but I have determined not to minister our of my own "proven devices" but to rely on His direction for everything spoken or done. There has been a discernible difference and anointing...Thank you Lord.
I spoke on the authority and wisdom of intimacy as well as a kind of spontaneous "'sharpening your arrows" talk.
Praises:
NO jet lag...immediate body clock adjustment..slept as if there was literally no time change
Holy Spirit flow of communication....am not "rushing" into subject matter, but the Lord has continued to carefully lay out each ministry time
I miss family...but have taken personal time to walk the streets of Seoul in the morning and just enjoy the Lord ( I found a Dunkin Doughnuts shop....serves decent cup of joe with an apple fritter to balance out all the kimchee..so much for the 3 mile walk)
Please pray for:
Healing from a nagging cough....especially at night.
Protection from distraction..especially as I pray for individuals
Continued clarity of exact words the Lord would have me speak
Creativity as I have sung spontaneously in nearly every meeting
Continued protection and blessing over my family.
Bless all of you...and thank you for praying...don't forget to email..or if you don't like to do email... even call me to leave voice mail....love to hear your voices! ( 206.350.0236)
Darrell
Monday, November 14, 2005
South Korea
In just a little over 12 hours, I leave for South Korea for 15 days. Most of you have some connection with us, either through long-term relationships, family, church related ministry, or you have a passion for prayer. I would like to communicate a bit more regularly and specifically this trip.
I would like to include Prayer requests as well as other concerns ... so this list is much smaller. Also, it is written on the fly ... and may even have a few grammar or spelling mistakes ... please ignore them.
I feel this trip is very strategic. After some prayer, we feel as if Carlene is going to remain home this time. So it will be just myself this time.
We have just received an invitation to return in February for the Foursquare National Pastors Conference together with Jean Darnall ... and also in March for the Youth With A Mission school ... as well other meetings yet to be determined. So with all of that travel, this seems the right choice.
Everything is just a bit sketchy at this point, but I'd like you to pray for:
grace and efficient connections with airlines and other travel
wisdom and revelation regarding ministry
safety and health with sustaining energy
clarity in meeting the right people the right place in the right time
peace and grace for Carlene and our other family members Nate and Krista, Danielle, Matthew, and Paul.
Thank you for praying, and I'll try to communicate as often as possible ... especially as the Holy Spirit leads.
Bless you,
Darrell
Ps. Please feel free to e-mail any words or insights questions or whatever it's always wonderful to hear from friends during these trips ... you may even leave me a voice message that I can retrieve through my e-mail. This is a Internet fax #but you may leave a voicemail as well: 206.350.0236 ... oh the marvel of electronic technology!
Thursday, November 10, 2005
Sorry for the mixup
Sorry for the mixup. Remember, no Worship At the River event in December.
Thanks!
Pacificministries events for November and December
Instead, we'd like to celebrate the Christmas season with a Worship Celebration and fully catered prime rib dinner at A Special Place, in Gresham, Oregon. Last April, we celebrated a Passover Seder at this venue. Please feel free to e-mail Delight Petersen by December 1st to secure your place. (delightpete@yahoo.com)
This will be a wonderful opportunity to celebrate what the Lord has done these past years. We also anticipate "looking forward" to specific plans and events for the coming season. (Not to mention a memorable Christmas feast!) Please come!
Calendar Events
· November 2-16 Steve Bressler (Pacificministries Team Member) with Northwest Medical Teams, Africa
· November 11-12 Growing In Intimacy With The Father seminar with Dave Olson (registration is closed)
· November 13 Worship At The River 6:00 p.m. Glenn Otto Park, Troutdale
· November 14-29 Darrell and Carlene Seoul Korea (if you'd like regular e-mail updates during this trip, please e-mail: pacificministries@gmail.com and I'll include you)
The Lord has allowed us to cultivate wonderful friendships with Foursquare, independent, and mainline denominational churches in South Korea. Our work with Youth With A Mission and other organizations have given us an increased awareness and burden for both North Korean refugees and the underground church. Many organizations that regularly monitor persecution and human-rights issues have agreed that among all the nations of the world, North Korea is the worst violator. We believe the Lord is utilizing professionals, humanitarian workers, and entrepreneurs in practical ministry endeavors to minister to the people of this nation. At the same time Lord is igniting a passion for intercession and worship for the expressed purpose and expectation of God's presence to be established in this nation.
In the North Korean capital of P'yŏngyang; 100 years ago, revival prayer meetings began which changed the spiritual climate of the nation. We believe the seeds of that Renewal will yet come to fruition. (For more information, please visit: http://www.e-n.org.uk/2005-11/3205-Strangely-optimistic.htm)
Our ministry trip is centered on a two-part mission:
1. 1. Continue to encourage and strengthen pastors, leaders, and worshippers in churches in South Korea; and,
2. 2. To seek the Lord for His strategy regarding how to pray specifically for the church in North Korea. Part of this trip will be spent with leaders who work directly with refugees. We also hope to visit the border to pray.
* December 3 Regional Worship Gathering, 6:00 p.m. Port Townsend Washington (http://redeemerway.org)
This Worship Gathering is open to all, especially those who live in the Olympic Peninsula or surrounding cities. We have developed wonderful relationships with leaders in this region (Carlene's home town), and look forward to an evening of worship. The Lutheran Church of the Redeemer will host this Worship Gathering. They regularly sponsor Saturday evening worship gatherings. and Burdell Austin, the Washington State coordinator for the Strategic Prayer Network, is also inviting many of her leaders as well.
* December 11 Worship Celebration and Dinner
* December 12,19,23 My fifth year of "ministering" at the Portland International Airport as part of the airport's Christmas Piano seasonal entertainment.
* Traditionally, I have spent much of December committed to this ministry. Occasionally, folks have been interested in partnering with me by Prayer - walking as I play traditional Christmas favorites on the piano. Airports are often referred to as the gateway or the hub of a city, and I believe the Lord has allowed access into the "city gate". These times have taught me much about worship in the marketplace, prayer, rest, obedience, and intimacy. I have scheduled this ministry at the center of the food court at the Oregon Marketplace clock tower. Many travelers and guests buy their coffee lattes and gather around the piano and even sometimes sing along. This has become a highlight of my year, and you are welcome. Please e-mail Pacificministries@gmail.com for exact times. I am scheduling these three days in the food open to the public; the remaining ministry will be beyond security.
* December 25 11:00 a.m. Darrell and Mike Baird will be leading worship Christmas morning at Greater Portland Bible Church. (www.pdxchurch.org)
Finally, we thank you for your financial support, interest and prayers as the Lord continues to reveal His design for all of us in the season.
Darrell and Carlene
International House of Prayer
Last week, Carlene and I returned from a leaders summit at the International House of Prayer in Kansas City, Missouri. Needless to say, these 5 days were both affirming and life changing. Increasing numbers of pastors and leaders throughout America desire authentic city transformation. Kansas City has pioneered an expression of nonstop night and day prayer for nearly seven years. They sponsor schools of ministry, conferences, and internships for young and old alike. While they would not recommend replicating an exact "Kansas City" model, the values and convictions can be absorbed and implemented in communities, churches and nations,
Not only did we enjoy "soaking" times in the House of Prayer, but we cultivated new friendships with leaders such as Dr. Wes Adams and Rhonda Hughey, the directors of Fusion Ministries (www.fusionministry.com) and sponsors of the summit. This is a quote from her recent book Desperate For His Presence:
The critical component to revival in the church and transformation in the community is the manifest Presence of Jesus. In transformed communities, the presence of God is a valued and critical component of the well-being of the community at every level of society. Participants in transformation in these communities include Presidents, Prime Ministers, Mayors, businessman, law enforcement officers, clergy and laypeople. People from all over the world are gathering to cry out to God and labor together to seek His presence and the transformation of their communities.
Sunday morning at the final summit meeting at the House of Prayer, representatives from 30 or so cities and nations were privileged to intercede on behalf of their region. As I approached the front of the auditorium to pray, I noticed one of the intercessors had a beautiful, fragrant, fresh cut rose. I asked her if I might borrow it for a moment, and I brought it with me as I prayed. Following is my best recollection of the prayer:
Lord, you have created our city... Portland, Oregon for intimacy and creative worship. We are known as the City Of Roses. As we seek Your Face and humble ourselves, may you continue to refine... and even crush us, so that there will come a sweet fragrance of Your Presence rise from our city. May this fragrance of worship be acceptable to You, Lord.
The writer in the Song Of Songs records :
I am a Rose of Sharon...Awake, north wind, and come, south wind! Blow on my garden, that its fragrance may spread abroad. (2:1...4:16)
We believe the Holy Spirit is moving as a fresh wind spreading the fragrance of heart felt worship all over the world. Believers everywhere are responding to His call for renewed and extravagant, "first love" expressions of worship. This is also our heart's cry. We have been encouraged by many throughout the Northwest and Pacific Rim nations who share this common heart.
Bless you in your "desperate" pursuit of His presence.
Darrell and Carlene
Wednesday, September 14, 2005
Perspective on Katrina
By now you have seen countless images of the damage produced by Hurricane Katrina. The press has vigorously sought out the extreme view of all the pain and anguish and broadcast it to the world. It is time to shift away from the visible devastation and consider the spiritual dynamics. Here are a few embryonic considerations of things God might want us to see.
1) This was fundamentally different
The assault on
I believe this is what is happening in
Although they have no place to go, no future, no plan, they know one thing - they want out. I believe that it is because in their spirit, they know that the land is inhospitable spiritually, as well as physically.
Contrast this with other great disasters. When the earthquake and fire destroyed
While
This is different. A specific discipline from God or the natural consequences of a dysfunctional society do not bring this response. People are responding to the land which has vomited them out.
2) There is a spiritual virus released
3) The Christian response
The book of Obadiah is God's judgment of extermination on the nation of
This is a crucial principle for the Body of Christ and the nation at large. Regardless of the nature and degree of the sins God is dealing with,
4) The potential
We use the term The Edomite Curse to describe normal human relationships that turn adversarial. It encompasses abortion, child molestation and abandonment, divorce, racism, domestic violence, murder, rape and all other forms of fractured relationships. While every redemptive gift has its own form of sin, the redemptive gift of Prophet tends to default to the Edomite Curse, leaving a trail of broken relationships behind it.
Thus, the
Now consider this principle: If we honor those whom God sends us, He will send us those whom He honors.
The Church has been praying vigorously for revival. There is a passionate desire to have more than a visitation from the King. We long to have Him dwell among us.
This is a righteous desire.
But is it possible that we are facing a test? Is the earnestly desired move of God contingent on our response to this situation? Is it possible that in the face of decades of rampant, unrepentant empowering of the Edomite Curse, God is offering this nation one last opportunity to love our brother?
When you think about it, the financial, emotional and spiritual cost of restoring the tens of thousands of evacuees is microscopic when measured against the travesty of the past generations' indulgence in destroying life and community.
Is it possible that if we respond rightly to this, God will come with mercy, but if we turn our back on our brothers and sisters, God will turn His back on us?
I don't know. I don't have to know whether the stakes are that high or not, because I do know that the right thing to do is to invest in those who have fled
5) The Fruit
If we consistently do what is right, because it is right, sooner or later we will do a right thing that gives us results that are hugely disproportionate to the action.
For the last ten years sundry teams have been deeply vested in dealing with the iniquity on the land in
Today,
Is today's series of radically right choices in
I don't know for sure. I just know they are doing the right thing in a big way, and it will go far to crush the power of the spirit of
Will we do the same for our nation?
Arthur Burk
Sept. 6, 2005
Sunday, September 11, 2005
Worship at the River
9/11/2005
Four years ago on this date, most of our lives changed dramatically. We were confronted with the reality of a battle initiated by an enemy we could not easily see ... and this holy war, for the first time, affected U.S. soil.
Exactly two weeks ago, we experienced another tragedy in the hurricane and the aftermath of chaos and lawlessness ... as well as acts of kindness and mercy ... all witnessed on the nightly news. Many fled to a Tower of refuge ... the Superdome ... hoping for safety and security.
We are living with uncertainty, challenge, and change. This is why I am more convinced than ever that ...
... neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons,[a] neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, 39neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Just two years ago this month, several us felt the Holy Spirit lead us to began a once a month gathering here at the River. While we have learned more tha just a few things, these past few years our gathering has just one central purpose. It is an open invitation to let the Holy Spirit release songs... songs that we know from the past, hymns as well as contemporary, and songs that have their birth in the spontaneous revelation King David modeled for us in his personal journal ... which became the Book of Psalms.
Paul urged the church to assemble and bring something....a contribution to the meeting. I don't think he was referring to finances. He spoke about songs, a prophetic word, a word encouragement or a tongue with interpretation ...
As in the past, you may hear songs that are spontaneous, experience times of quietness or silence ... words of encouragement ... All of these elements we submit to the Holy Spirit for his orchestration. And above all, we are not afraid of making a mistake.
We have learned over the years that there is one central reoccurring and growing passion ... that is the love for the Bride for the Bridegroom ... the Holy Spirit draws us to this truth time and time again ... the supremacy of Christ. I asked my wife if she had a word for this evening, and she said yes, she says the Lord says: I want all the attention tonight.
This evening we may experience times the Holy Spirit will initiate.... an opportunity to agree with Him for words of knowledge, prophetic encouragement ... ... healing ... as well as an opportunity to celebrate communion as the Holy Spirit leads.
But most importantly, this evening we have the privilege and of the joy of abandoned worship. That despite external circumstances, gas prices, hurricanes, wars and rumors of wars, the start of school, illnesses and disappointments, we worship.
Can you find the rest from your previous labor?
Could it be that the Lord wants us to draw even closer to Him ... because we're approaching a season of even greater dependence on Him?
We worship. We worship because of what God has done for us ... He has done great things ... and we are His people and the sheep of his pasture created for one purpose ... to glorify His Name.
Darrell