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by Staff PLYMOUTH, MI – The officers and Board of Trustees of the Baptist State Convention of Michigan (BSCM) unanimously passed a resolution calling on the Executive Committee of the Southern Baptist Convention (SBC) to waive attorney-client privilege in connection with an investigation into how the Executive Committee handled sexual abuse allegations. At the Annual Meeting in June, SBC messengers voted for a third-party investigation into the allegations. SBC President Ed Litton appointed a seven-member task force to work with Guidepost Solutions to conduct the investigation. The Executive Committee has declined the request of the Task Force to waive attorney-client privilege and allow the Task Force access to all pertinent materials. In an opening statement to the BSCM resolution, the Board says, “We are disappointed and saddened that this resolution had to be produced in the first place.” The resolution calls on the EC to waive the attorney-client privilege “so that a thorough and transparent investigation can take place.” Tim Patterson, Executive Director of the BSCM, said the group plans to take the resolution to the convention’s Annual Meeting. The BSCM resolution joins a chorus of SBC entities, state conventions, and denominational leaders all calling on the EC to fulfill the will of the messengers. The entire opening letter is as follows: September 28, 2021 The officers and the Board of Trustees of the Baptist State Convention of Michigan have unanimously and enthusiastically approved the attached resolution, calling on the Executive Committee of the Southern Baptist Convention to follow the will of the messengers regarding the waiving of attorney-client privilege so that a thorough and transparent investigation can take place. We are disappointed and saddened that this resolution had to be produced in the first place, and have prayed (and will continue to pray) that those who have been elected by the messengers to serve the churches of the SBC will do the right thing. We want to be clear that we unequivocally stand with the abused and cry out for justice to be done (Amos 5:24). Soli Deo Gloria, Roy Henry, President Ed Emmerling, 1st Vice-President Roland Caldwell, Sr., 2nd Vice-President Jerome Taylor, 1st Recording Secretary Dr. Michelle White, 2nd Recording Secretary The Board of Trustees of the Baptist State Convention of Michigan To read the entire resolution, CLICK HERE. #OCTOBER21

by Phil Wallin MONROE, MI – There has been so much discussion about the current atmosphere of our society and the negative perception it creates in our hearts, not only as believers but leaders of the church. As I write this to you, there are several difficulties that enter my mind. The 20-year anniversary of 9/11, nearly two years of COVID-19, the conclusion of the war in Afghanistan, and growing anger and intolerance in America. However, I want to encourage you to keep your eyes on the prize. Jesus has not changed, He is the same yesterday, today, and forever. He is in control of all things, and our job is to continue to serve His plan and purpose for our lives. The words of Jesus from the Gospel of John 4:35 come to mind, “Behold, I say to you, lift up your eyes and look at the fields, for they are already white for harvest.” It is important whenever we face difficulties that we focus on the priority. God’s priority for us is found in the great commission and the great command. We are to go into all the world and make disciples, baptizing them in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, teaching them to obey all that Christ has commanded us. Also, we are to love the Lord with all our heart and love our neighbors as ourselves. In these two passages, the purpose and mission of the church are summed up and must be our priority as believers/ leaders of the church. One of the things we have done at Faith Baptist Church during the ever-changing church environment, is develop an Outreach Team. We are a team of leaders and lay members with a goal of having an impact on our community. The team has eight members however, everyone is invited to participate because I believe involvement is investment. We meet once a month to brainstorm, establish quarterly outreach events, and work out logistics. Our summer events were a huge success ranging from ideas such as: collecting backpack supplies for the homeless, a motorcycle rally for crisis pregnancies and a barbecue for first responders. I am excited because there is a growing enthusiasm among our church for doing little things that have a big impact. I am not suggesting that everyone should do what Faith Baptist Church is doing. What I am suggesting is that we all focus on what Christ has called us to do. Instead of becoming overwhelmed by the minutiae of the world let's become overwhelmed by this amazing God we serve. Let’s fix our eyes on Jesus, the Author and Finisher of our faith, and not grow weary by what is taking place around us. Let’s stand as brothers and sisters in Christ and work together, not allowing little things to divide us and keep our eyes on the priority. ABOUT THE AUTHOR Phil Wallin is the lead Pastor of Faith Baptist Church in Monroe. He has served in several roles on the local church level; Director of Missions, Deacon, Men’s Ministry leader, Church Planter and Associate Pastor. #OCTOBER21

by Tim Patterson PLYMOUTH, MI – Twenty months! That is the very least number of months we here in the good ol’ USA have been dealing with a very difficult and deadly viral epidemic that has turned into a global pandemic. Person after person has contracted and sadly many have succumbed to, the reactionary ravages of this disease. COVID-19 does not kill an individual, but the way our bodies react to it does; the subsequent infections and organ failures that accompany this vicious little crown of a virus. By the grace of God and a very good vaccine, Sabrina and I have not contracted this bad bug. We have been as cautious and careful as we could be and followed the appropriate protocols. To say the least, we are most grateful. I know what it is like to have pneumonia, which is one of the deadliest attributes of the COVID infection. It is no fun! A few years back I encountered the gnarly nemesis called pneumonia, and to this day remain susceptible to this kind of lung infection. There I was, minding my own business when it began to take over. I had felt fatigued for a few days, but other than that I was fine. A little tightening of the chest and just a slight elevation of my body temperature was all that I noticed. Then within just a few hours, my lungs were congested, fever was rising, and I felt like I had been in an inordinate encounter with a Mack truck and lost. I had pneumonia and didn't know it. I thought it was just a slight case of the flu that was going around, and I would be over it in a few days. As you may know, pneumonia is an inflammation of the lungs caused by a wide variety of agents, including viruses, bacteria, micro-organisms know as Mycoplasma and Rickettsia, and some fungi. Inflammation also occurs with the inhalation of various dusts or gases and with the aspiration of food or stomach acid. The pathological process usually begins with the irritation of lung tissue. The walls of air sacs (alveoli) that compose one’s lungs, swell, or are destroyed, and plasma, red blood cells, and white blood cells from lung capillaries fill the alveolar spaces. The portion of the lung involved becomes relatively solid and basically is rendered temporarily nonfunctional. The once soft and pliable tissues that transfers oxygen to the blood become hardened sacks of gunk filled (medical term lol) balloons. Typical symptoms include fever, chills, cough, chest pain, increased production of sputum, sweating, aching, expectoration of blood, and difficulty in breathing. How I contracted this case of pneumonia is still a mystery to me. I didn't go out looking for it, nor did I invite it to invade my body and incapacitate me for more than a week. Was there something I was doing that created an atmosphere that was conducive for this infection to take root? Had I defied some of the basic laws of good health and placed myself in jeopardy? I doubt that I will ever know for sure the direct cause, but this I do know, the results were the same. I was eventually suffering the ravages of this very uncomfortable invader and unless personal physician had intervened, with the proper treatment, the outcome could have been fatal. Sin has many of the same characteristics that influenza or pneumonia possess. It comes into the life of every man, woman, boy and girl in much the same way as does a physical disease, but unlike pneumonia, it does not attack the body, but it attacks the soul and spirit. All mankind has been infected with sin and the source and vestiges of sin is always within us. It is just waiting for the best (or might I say worst) atmosphere in which to grow. Just as our bodies are covered and filled with bacteria and viruses, so are our souls with sin. If left untreated by our Great Physician, then we will eventually succumb to its fatal infection. Had I not chosen to go to my physician for treatment when I did, it is questionable as to whether I would be breathing the air of this world today. It may be that you do not notice the effects of the infection of sin in your life but believe me; it will one day take its toll. It will eventually kill you. I strongly advise you to make an appointment with the Good Doctor who will be able to heal you from all your souls’ diseases. And the good thing about this Doctor is that there are no lines in which to wait, He’s always in, and His services are free. What a deal! ABOUT THE AUTHOR Tim Patterson is Executive Director/Treasurer of the Baptist State Convention of Michigan. Elected unanimously in May of 2015, Patterson formerly served for 9 years as pastor of Hillcrest Baptist Church in Jacksonville, Fla. He also served as trustee chair and national mobilizer for the North American Mission Board. #OCTOBER21

by Dr. Tony L. Lynn PLYMOUTH, MI – I hope your late spring, summer, and early autumn has gone as well as mine. Once again in my role, daily, I get to see the Lord do amazing things that make me smile, even laugh, with joy during my morning quiet times. Here are six advances that have taken place during the past five months. Because you pray, provide support, and participate these advances are happening because of what you do through your local church; so, thank you for what you do for the Lord. Ryan Cabildo in Wayne Church planter, Ryan Cabildo, passed NAMB assessment and is in the early stage of launching Lanterns Church in Wayne, Michigan. His sending church is Mile City Church, Plymouth. Cabildo is creating a launch team while refining the preparations that go into starting a new church. I love it that Cabildo is launching where he spent most of his lifetime. He is a creative with a warm heart who always has time to listen to those in need. Zac and Emily Zielinski in Flint Church planter, Zac Zielinski, and his wife Emily passed NAMB assessment and are in the early stage of launching a church plant in Flint, Michigan among university students while serving as a campus pastor in Grand Blanc, Michigan. Their sending church is Grumlaw Church, Grand Blanc & Hartland, Michigan. They are inviting people to join their launch team. I remember the moment when I knew Zac had been overcome with the calling to plant a new church. He attended the Send Network Gathering at Mile City Church back on March 17. At the close of the final part of that inspiring day, Zac was exiting the day’s events and I felt compelled to stop and ask, “What has this day meant to you?” Zac responded, “I think God is calling me to plant a church.” Little did I know that Zac and Emily were already pressing into the calling with the counsel of their pastor, Shea Prisk. Henry and Lily Zual in Kentwood Church planter, Henry Zual, and his wife Lily passed NAMB assessment and have planted Chin Mission Baptist Church in Kentwood, Michigan. His sending church is Falam Christian Church of Indianapolis, Indiana. The people on this church plant are from Myanmar (Burma) where warlike conditions threaten the lives of their family members and friends, daily. Twice with no success during these past two years, Burmese pastors in Michigan invited me to take mission trips to Myanmar to share the Good News of Christ and to develop believers. Pray fervently for our brothers and sisters who face a sorrow we do not understand. On a brighter note, a former missionary with the International Mission Board, who speaks the language of the Burma people, is on staff in a North American church and has agreed to come visit the three Burmese congregations we have in Michigan. I cannot wait until I see the faces of the Burmese people in Michigan shine with smiles because someone who learned their language 15 years ago is here to help us help them. Nathan and Alison Sharpe in Adrian Church planter, Nathan Sharpe, and his wife Alison passed NAMB assessment and launched Catalyst Church, Adrian, Michigan on Sunday, September 12, within a community they believe is underserved and in need of more witnesses for Jesus Christ. Their sending church is Redemption Church, Grandville, Michigan. Nathan and Alison already share a lot of life with their community. Nathan is a well-loved coach and teacher in a nearby school. The church plant is the result of a collaboration between wise people who had building and property, but needed spiritual leadership. After spending launch Sunday with the congregation, I can sense the unity among the people and the pursuit to see people become devoted followers of Christ. David and Stefanie Livingston in Ann Arbor Church planter, David Livingston, and his wife Stefanie passed NAMB assessment and are conducting autumn vision tours while creating a core team for a new church plant among the students at the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan. Their sending church is Doxa Church, Madison, Wisconsin. I already participated in one of the early vision tours and found I was surrounded by young adults on the threshold of post-university careers who were putting their careers on hold to devote the next 2-3 years of their personal lives to launching a new church in Ann Arbor. I know it sounds crazy, but I have already witnessed a success using this strategy in East Lansing. Austin and Lesley Wadlow in East Lansing Church planter, Austin Wadlow, and his wife Lesley along with people of The Commons Church, East Lansing, a two-year old church, are celebrating remarkable growth and inspiring professions of faith in Christ. One September Sunday was dedicated to hearing about life changes and witnessing the baptisms of those who have trusted in Christ. The young church plant created a second Sunday morning service with a total morning attendance of 455 people; however, what is equally as important is that almost everyone has registered to join discipleship groups which is a primary focus of the church’s purpose. This church plant is exploding with growth on 7 acres with a 20,000 square foot building that was gifted to them for $1 because the senior citizens of that existing church wanted to share their lifelong legacy with the vibrant ministry of The Commons Church. As you can see, I serve the Lord, the BSCM, and the Send Network with joy because my days are filled watching the testimony of God’s love for the peoples of Michigan. I am always available to talk if you want to find your place in planting churches everywhere for everyone. ABOUT THE AUTHOR Dr. Tony L. Lynn is the State Director of Missions for the Baptist State Convention of Michigan. Before coming on staff at the BSCM, Tony served as lead pastor for more than six years at Crosspoint Church in Monroe, Michigan. He and his wife, Jamie, also served with the International Mission Board in Africa and in Europe. #OCTOBER21

by Mike Durbin PLYMOUTH, MI – God is re-fueling pastors across Michigan as they reach out to strengthen and encourage one another in the Lord. The Pandemic has been a challenging time for those in positions of spiritual leadership, but Michigan Baptist pastors have served the Lord and His church well. They have reached out to one another for prayer, fellowship, accountability, and direction as they have served through this unique season. They are living out the spiritual truth that “iron sharpens iron.” Approximately 35 pastors are engaging monthly in five “Be The Church” Cohorts, 55 ministry couples gathered in three Refresh Pastor/Wife Retreats, and 11 pastors started the re:Focus journeys together. Pastors are impacting pastors! Here are several testimonies! Be The Church Cohorts “I have been part of a “Be The Church Cohort” with four other pastors since June 2021. We meet monthly and rotate churches, so we can see each other’s ministry context. During the 90 minutes that we are together, our BTC cohort strives to be more than pre-assigned discussion points. We check up on each other’s families. We listen to what is going on in each ministry. We pray for and encourage one another. Our BTC cohort breathes life and energy into me. In my first year of ministry, a few decades ago, a veteran pastor told me “Every pastor needs a pastor”. My BTC cohort serves as the pastor this pastor needs in his life. I am very thankful for men that I meet with monthly” (Chris Peoples, Trinity Baptist Church). Refresh Pastor/Wife Retreats “My wife and I thoroughly enjoyed our time at the Refresh Pastor/Wife Retreat, even with our newborn tagging along. While there was no cathartic moment, it was nice to get away and just spend time together as husband and wife. While Tim Dowdy gave some great spiritual reminders and did a great job offering encouragement, the refreshment really came from spending time together in Frankenmuth, getting to meet other pastors and wives and learning about their families and ministries, and the love we felt from Sabrina and Shar loving on our little one so that we could enjoy the dinner. Over the past few years, the BSCM has offered other events like this along with pastor and wife date nights. While these are small events and only comprise a day or two out of the year, they are meaningful and refreshing. This is one other way that Michigan Baptists is saying, “we see the work you’re doing, we know it can be difficult, but you’re valued and appreciated.” That goes a long way in refreshing the soul. So, from my wife and I, thank you Michigan Baptists for loving on pastors and their wives. Thank you for investing in our ministry and in our marriage through opportunities like this. Thank you for ministering to us so that we can continue to minister to those that God has entrusted to us” (Jonathan Turner, Clinton Baptist). Re-Focus “I had the opportunity to attend the re:Focus Retreat at Bambi Lake. I must say that this has been a helpful tool for me as a pastor. I came away from the retreat with three definite areas that encouraged me as a pastor. 1. We were asked about our trust level with God; 1being the lowest and 10 being the highest. As I took inventory of myself, I realized my trusting God for everything was not where I wanted it to be. I have shared this with my wife, and we are now trying to trust God in the simplest of everything. Trusting Him in everyday life whether big or small, trusting Him for everything instead of trying to manufacture it up myself. 2. Challenged in my personal goal. What do I want to see more of in my life? My personal goal became to know Jesus more in my everyday life. Philippians 3:10, "That I may know Him and the power of His resurrection and the fellowship of His sufferings, being conformed to His death;" To know Him more I needed to spend more time with Him and less time with everyday distractions. As a pastor it is easy to get distracted by others and their needs. I have tried to spend more time in prayer and focusing on what God can do. As a result, He has become more precious to me in my everyday life. 3. Given the book "The Me I Want to Be", by John Ortberg. Part 5 of this book is "deepening my relationships." Chapter 15 is, “Try Going off the Deep End with God.” This chapter has really encouraged me to spend more time in earnest prayer, and getting into a deeper relationship with God. Powerful and life changing. I believe as a result of just the first re:Focus, God has enriched my life and through prayer God has been changing things for His good in His church. I am eagerly looking forward to God speaking in our next retreat about Redefining” (Ken Hale, Community Baptist Church) Pastors are reaching out to each other across Michigan, demonstrating once again that we are stronger together. ABOUT THE AUTHOR Mike Durbin is the State Evangelism Director for the Baptist State Convention of Michigan. Before joining the state convention staff, Mike served as Church Planting Catalyst and Director of Missions in Metro Detroit since 2007. He also has served as a pastor and bi-vocational pastor in Michigan, as well as International Missionary to Brazil. #OCTOBER21

by Coye Bouyer LANSING, MI – “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to His purpose” (Rom. 8:28). How often in times of trials have believers turned to Paul’s reassuring words that God has not deserted us but is at work in the circumstances surrounding us. Paul, having already encouraged his audience with the fact that the Spirit intercedes on their behalf (vv.26-27), now further encourages them with words they must hear and understand so that they will always know. Furthermore, when Paul writes the words, “We know” he is indicating that what he knew then, has ramifications of what you and I can know today. This is also why he uses the plural and inclusive word ‘we.’ For what applied to Paul and his listeners and readers then, still applies to you and I today. So, what is it that we can always know? Paul wants us to know that because you love God, He is at work in each and every circumstance of your life; Paul wants to assure every believer that God is managing all actions, activities and affairs in such a way that their outcome always benefits YOU! Now, the “good” for which Paul speaks is not necessarily what we may think is always best nor does the ‘good’ Paul speaks always feel good in the moment. However, Paul is declaring that even in the most challenging of circumstances God is working out His plan. The verb (“works”) and the participial phrase (“those who love him”) are in the present tense. Not only has God been at work, but Paul is saying, He is presently and continually at work on behalf of those who love and are loved by Him. You see, often we think that because Christ died in the past securing our salvation for the future, God simply sits back and watches what is taking place here on earth. Like sitting in a theatre, it is understood that God is watching the movie scenes of your life as it plays out on the screen. But Paul is saying God is not simply sitting back watching what is taking place; rather He is actively involved watching over what is taking place. Paul is saying that God is moving and maneuvering, putting pieces and people in certain places as He positions the events or activity and actions of men from His position up in Heaven for the purposes of His Plans and your good down here on earth. Church, we live in a world full of sin as chaos has become the order of today. Whether you want to talk about the cataclysmic catastrophes of hurricanes like Ida, forest fires up the coast in California, or the chaos in the past few weeks with America’s decision to withdraw from Afghanistan. And if that were not enough, we are still dealing with the ramifications of a WORLD-WIDE Pandemic in which some are trying to recover while others are now finding themselves forced to deal with sickness and even death all over again. But Paul reminds us that God is even working through all of this to bring about His plan and our good. Paul’s words are not only encouraging, but they are also needed, as they remind us all of this one simple truth and that is, ‘GOD HAS A PLAN!’ And His plan is not only good, but it will be good for you and I. God Bless You! ABOUT THE AUTHOR Pastor Coye L. Bouyer is the founding pastor of Kingdom Life Church in Lansing, MI where he has served since March of 2010. Pastor Bouyer recently stepped into the Diversity Ambassador role for the BSCM and firmly believes that he was not only called to Preach the Gospel as part of the process of reconciliation of man to God, but also using any platform as a bridge of reconciliation of man to man, and even more so amongst the brethren. Pastor Bouyer and his lovely wife Keturah (Gen. 25:1) have been married four over 20 years and have four children; Sierra, Seth, Cayla and Coye II. #OCTOBER21

by Mick Schatz ROSCOMMON, MI – God’s faithfulness never ends. Even in the midst of the COVID pandemic, Bambi has encountered new growth and opportunities that will greatly benefit us as we move into the future. Serving here at Bambi for the last four and a half years has truly been a privilege I never expected in my life. It’s been an exciting and challenging journey so far, and I anticipate God continuing to do amazing things here at Bambi Lake. That is why I remain passionate and excited about its past, present, and future. PAST At every camp or retreat we host; I encounter stories of how Bambi Lake has impacted a life for eternity. I hear testimonies of individuals who were saved here as a child, now serve in a church or full-time ministry. Most often those individuals are now bringing their family, student group, or church to Bambi Lake. I watch as friends reunite and share memories of first meeting each other at a camp or retreat 15 or 20 years ago. I listen to students tell of the first time they heard the voice of God speak to them in the quietness and calm sitting by the lake. Numerous are the tales of cramming a few hundred into Hubbs chapel, but it did not matter because worship was the priority of the day. Being uncomfortable was not an issue because God was in the house, and His presence was imminent! That will preach! Many, many lives have been transformed by the power of the gospel here at Bambi Lake. What a heritage, what a legacy. PRESENT It has been said the best gift we can give ourselves and those around us is to be present. With such an amazing heritage to learn from and stand on, by the grace of God, Bambi Lake now has the responsibility to be present. We cannot be satisfied and rest on the accomplishments of our past – however great – we must be present. We must be engaged in raising up new leaders, and fiercely empowering young and old alike to share the Good News of salvation. I am excited to say that this is a reality at Bambi Lake. At every camp and every retreat new stories are emerging. New chapters are being written in the lives of those who are discovering freedom, healing, joy, and forgiveness in Christ. Bambi Lake is discovering new ways to encounter the culture with the love of Christ. We are implementing new programs and opportunities for the Body of Christ to be encouraged and empowered for the Kingdom. Bambi Lake is striving to be a lighthouse in our community, state, nation, and world! Bambi Lake is Present! FUTURE With a legacy of life change and a mandate to be present, I am ecstatic about the future of Bambi Lake. We should all be! As great as the past has been, I believe the future is going to be even more amazing. Not just because of new camps, retreats, or new activities, but because of people like you. Yes, people just like you who are reading this article. God’s people. Christian Michiganders who love God and worship together with other believers at churches filled with worship because the presence of God is evident. How you ask? By praying for Bambi Lake and taking advantage of opportunities to participate. I believe, like many of you, God has great plans and designs for Bambi Lake. His presence is being felt and experienced here in new and refreshing ways. The cool part? He is inviting you and me to come. So, come join the ride. Come be refreshed. Come find rest. Come be present and see God move - God’s faithfulness never ends! ABOUT THE AUTHOR Mick Schatz serves on the staff of the Baptist State Convention of Michigan. He is the State Director of Spiritual Enrichment and Retreats and lives at Bambi Lake. #OCTOBER21

by Staff PLYMOUTH, MI – After a year and a half, many school children are going back to the in-person classroom. For churches, they are struggling with how to reopen their children’s ministries. Just because a church declares their children ministries back, does not mean that parents will necessarily agree. So how do churches reestablish their outreach to children in a way that feels inviting, comforting, and safe. A recent episode of the Punching Holes in the Darkness podcast, addressed that very issue. Baptist State Convention of Michigan’s (BSCM) Director of Evangelism, Mike Durbin, had a conversation with Karen Villalpando on the challenges facing churches. Karen is the Child Care Administrator at Memorial Baptist Church in Sterling Heights. Her church’s children’s ministry has remained open since the beginning of the pandemic, and she shares some advice on how they have been able to do that in a safe and healthy manner. Punching Holes in the Darkness is a podcast of the BSCM. The podcast gives a voice to Michigan Baptists whether they are pastors or lay leaders. It deals with topics that are relevant to churches in the Upper Peninsula and in the urban centers of Michigan. Here’s a link to the most recent episode: bscm.org/podcast/episode/d2660c25/back-to-school-and-back-to-work #OCTOBER21

by Send Relief Staff The loss of one’s home or livelihood often parlays into losing food security and health. The physical ramifications can be devastating for men, women and children of all ages. However, what is potentially even more debilitating is the loss of dignity. When heavy rains washed out access roads to certain towns in Mozambique, the people had no way to get food or other necessary supplies. Additionally, the region has been plagued by violent attacks that have created many widows and single mothers, who are particularly vulnerable when it comes to food insecurity. With the help of generous supporters like you, Send Relief administered a Global Hunger Relief emergency food distribution to 320 families in need. Of these, 150 were widows with 597 children. Each food recipient also received the good news of the gospel, to which they responded with gratitude. Perhaps the most poignant and lasting effect of this food relief arose about two weeks after the feeding. A local administrator contacted the volunteer team leader, requesting a meeting. During the original food distribution, several government officials had been in attendance. They noted that this particular outreach effort was different, reporting that the people were treated with dignity. The administrator went on to share that there was something else that distinguished this project. When asked what that was, the team leader shared that they had not only shared food with these people, but they had shared the hope that is only found in Jesus Christ. There are many relief organizations around the world doing good work and meeting physical needs. But when you support Global Hunger Relief through Send Relief, you are a part of something different—something special. You are giving hope. You are sharing truth. You are treating others as Jesus would—with dignity and respect. Be a part of this special ministry today and let the hope of Christ transform the world as only He can. #OCTOBER21

by Dr. Tony L. Lynn PLYMOUTH, MI – I hope your late spring, summer, and early autumn has gone as well as mine. Once again in my role, daily, I get to see the Lord do amazing things that make me smile, even laugh, with joy during my morning quiet times. Here are six advances that have taken place during the past five months. Because you pray, provide support, and participate these advances are happening because of what you do through your local church; so, thank you for what you do for the Lord. Ryan Cabildo in Wayne Church planter, Ryan Cabildo, passed NAMB assessment and is in the early stage of launching Lanterns Church in Wayne, Michigan. His sending church is Mile City Church, Plymouth. Cabildo is creating a launch team while refining the preparations that go into starting a new church. I love it that Cabildo is launching where he spent most of his lifetime. He is a creative with a warm heart who always has time to listen to those in need. Zac and Emily Zielinski in Flint Church planter, Zac Zielinski, and his wife Emily passed NAMB assessment and are in the early stage of launching a church plant in Flint, Michigan among university students while serving as a campus pastor in Grand Blanc, Michigan. Their sending church is Grumlaw Church, Grand Blanc & Hartland, Michigan. They are inviting people to join their launch team. I remember the moment when I knew Zac had been overcome with the calling to plant a new church. He attended the Send Network Gathering at Mile City Church back on March 17. At the close of the final part of that inspiring day, Zac was exiting the day’s events and I felt compelled to stop and ask, “What has this day meant to you?” Zac responded, “I think God is calling me to plant a church.” Little did I know that Zac and Emily were already pressing into the calling with the counsel of their pastor, Shea Prisk. Henry and Lily Zual in Kentwood Church planter, Henry Zual, and his wife Lily passed NAMB assessment and have planted Chin Mission Baptist Church in Kentwood, Michigan. His sending church is Falam Christian Church of Indianapolis, Indiana. The people on this church plant are from Myanmar (Burma) where warlike conditions threaten the lives of their family members and friends, daily. Twice with no success during these past two years, Burmese pastors in Michigan invited me to take mission trips to Myanmar to share the Good News of Christ and to develop believers. Pray fervently for our brothers and sisters who face a sorrow we do not understand. On a brighter note, a former missionary with the International Mission Board, who speaks the language of the Burma people, is on staff in a North American church and has agreed to come visit the three Burmese congregations we have in Michigan. I cannot wait until I see the faces of the Burmese people in Michigan shine with smiles because someone who learned their language 15 years ago is here to help us help them. Nathan and Alison Sharpe in Adrian Church planter, Nathan Sharpe, and his wife Alison passed NAMB assessment and launched Catalyst Church, Adrian, Michigan on Sunday, September 12, within a community they believe is underserved and in need of more witnesses for Jesus Christ. Their sending church is Redemption Church, Grandville, Michigan. Nathan and Alison already share a lot of life with their community. Nathan is a well-loved coach and teacher in a nearby school. The church plant is the result of a collaboration between wise people who had building and property, but needed spiritual leadership. After spending launch Sunday with the congregation, I can sense the unity among the people and the pursuit to see people become devoted followers of Christ. David and Stefanie Livingston in Ann Arbor Church planter, David Livingston, and his wife Stefanie passed NAMB assessment and are conducting autumn vision tours while creating a core team for a new church plant among the students at the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan. Their sending church is Doxa Church, Madison, Wisconsin. I already participated in one of the early vision tours and found I was surrounded by young adults on the threshold of post-university careers who were putting their careers on hold to devote the next 2-3 years of their personal lives to launching a new church in Ann Arbor. I know it sounds crazy, but I have already witnessed a success using this strategy in East Lansing. Austin and Lesley Wadlow in East Lansing Church planter, Austin Wadlow, and his wife Lesley along with people of The Commons Church, East Lansing, a two-year old church, are celebrating remarkable growth and inspiring professions of faith in Christ. One September Sunday was dedicated to hearing about life changes and witnessing the baptisms of those who have trusted in Christ. The young church plant created a second Sunday morning service with a total morning attendance of 455 people; however, what is equally as important is that almost everyone has registered to join discipleship groups which is a primary focus of the church’s purpose. This church plant is exploding with growth on 7 acres with a 20,000 square foot building that was gifted to them for $1 because the senior citizens of that existing church wanted to share their lifelong legacy with the vibrant ministry of The Commons Church. As you can see, I serve the Lord, the BSCM, and the Send Network with joy because my days are filled watching the testimony of God’s love for the peoples of Michigan. I am always available to talk if you want to find your place in planting churches everywhere for everyone. ABOUT THE AUTHOR Dr. Tony L. Lynn is the State Director of Missions for the Baptist State Convention of Michigan. Before coming on staff at the BSCM, Tony served as lead pastor for more than six years at Crosspoint Church in Monroe, Michigan. He and his wife, Jamie, also served with the International Mission Board in Africa and in Europe. #OCTOBER21

by Todd Gray LOUISVILLE, KY (BP) – Do you compare yourself to other pastors or leaders? If so, who is the object of your comparison? The person who comes to mind may reveal whether your battle with comparison is a struggle with pride or insecurity. Prideful people tend to compare themselves to others they view as lesser than themselves while insecure leaders tend to obsess over people perceived by them to be better than themselves. The problem is that neither practice is helpful, and both can be debilitating. Why is self-comparison a mental war that must be overcome? 1. Because of the unfairness of comparison Every God-called leader is a mixed bag of strengths to utilize and weaknesses to overcome. Only Jesus has it all together in perfect proportion. The rest of us are lacking in many significant ways. Comparing yourself to someone who has a much higher IQ than you, or a more charming personality, or who is blessed with good looks is not fair to you. Judging yourself as better than someone who doesn’t have your gifts or opportunities is unfair to them. 2. Because of the failure of comparison You were made by God for the glory of God, and He made you in a unique way. He also is shaping you through your own unique experiences. There really is only one of you. Paul exhorts believers in Romans 12:3, “For by the grace given to me, I tell everyone among you not to think of himself more highly than he should think. Instead, think sensibly, as God has distributed a measure of faith to each one.” Comparing yourself to another pastor or leader fails to honor what God is doing in your life and in the life of the object of your comparison. When you look at other leaders and judge yourself as more or less valuable than they are, you are denying the planned design of the Creator who made you in a unique manner and for a noble purpose. You will not be judged by God as to whether you were like so-and-so, but instead by whether you were faithful with the gifts and assignments He entrusted to you. 3. Because of the fruit of comparison If you compare yourself with another pastor or Christian leader and you determine you are better than they, then you will bear the fruit of haughtiness and will be unable to learn from those you believe to be lesser than yourself. If you compare yourself to ministry superstars and decide you have little value, then you will avoid being around others from whom you have much to learn. Comparing yourself to other leaders, more or less gifted and successful than yourself, is a waste of time. Try this instead. Celebrate other leaders instead of comparing yourself to them. Learn from other leaders instead of evaluating them. Thank God for other leaders instead of being jealous or overly critical of them. Give it a shot this week. Find someone you perceive to be better, or worse, than yourself and schedule a time to meet with them. Buy them lunch or coffee, bring a notebook (or phone) along with a list of good questions. Take great notes and see what you can learn from another pastor or leader made in the image of God. Both of you will leave that meeting encouraged and better off for the ministry ahead. ABOUT THE AUTHOR Todd Gray is the executive director-treasurer of the Kentucky Baptist Convention. #OCTOBER21

by Stan Parker LANSING, MI – At the end of every summer, children in our local community are beginning their race toward educational success… a full mile away from the starting line. When a family is living paycheck to paycheck, children learn to make do with what they have - even if that means returning to school without the supplies they need. It’s not just about paper, pens, or backpacks - it’s about giving the gift of opportunity in school, and life, that many children will not receive otherwise. Seeking to serve the needs of the whole person - mind, body and spirit, our "Back to School Bash" took place on September 11th, 2021. The aim of this event was to provide these children with just that. It was a resounding success! Faith Fellowship joined forces with the Eastside Community Action Center, and the Ladies of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority in a community outreach with a mobile clinic and food. We also distributed backpacks that we had purchased and filled with school supplies. It was a great example of everybody working together to help serve the community (1 Corinthians 12:12-27), and proof that a grass-roots initiative has the power to transform lives by reaching and uplifting the most vulnerable. We were able to help ease the burden for so many local families by showing the love of Jesus Christ. We provided some spiritual tracts with an invitation to connect with Jesus Christ. A total of 75 backpacks to students from 9 different public schools, and even the community college. To some it may seem just a backpack, but we know that real social change happens when we go outside our own walls and equip tomorrow's leaders with what they need to succeed for mind, body and Spirit ABOUT THE AUTHOR Dr Stan Parker, Pastor of Faith Fellowship Baptist Church Lansing, current President of the Michigan African American Fellowship, and married to Charlotte. #OCTOBER21