MINISTRY//Loving William

It's not unusual for our Bible institute professors and those involved in our family ministry to exert a special effort to support their students. One of our teachers describes what he did for a high-school-aged-student who showed aptitude for becoming a pastor.

I taught William one-on-one for some time. At the beginning, we studied the Gospel of Mark. 316NOW's curriculum didn't have a course on Mark, so I wrote one for him. As a side benefit, the course also helped him improve his English.

After that it was the Gospel of John. Then a survey of the Old and New Testaments.

Northwestern Publishing House's course called Growing in Grace came next. NPH tried to send it to William, but China's customs control would not allow it into the country. That's when I tried DHL International Shipping. I had to fill out three customs forms and pay over $100, but three days later William had it.

William told me he wanted to finish his high school studies in the United States. I helped him and his family explore WELS area Lutheran high schools that have international student programs. He was accepted at one of the schools. He has now successfully completed two years there.  My continuing prayer is that he will attend college to become a pastor.

Since he lives with a family that is close by, I plan on visiting him again this week.

What you can do: The Holy Spirit has gathered a group of specially gifted, loving Christians to participate in 316NOW’s ministry. Thank him for that. And ask him to help our 316NOW team continue to live out their appreciation for God’s grace as they care for their students.