05/02/2017
Dr. Sam Martin
“You have not lived today until you have done something for someone who can never repay you.” John Bunyan
Today I came across a site that listed 364 quotes about helping others and there was certainly much to think about but, surely our source of inspiration is the Word of God, the Bible! Daily as I face the challenges of helping poor children, I turn to the scriptures and in this week’s Blog, I want to let the scriptures speak. Please read, listen and open your heart to what God says and then pray: ‘Lord Use me!’
Whoever is generous to the poor lends to the Lord, and he will repay him for his deed.
04/25/2017
Dr. Sam Martin
During the year it is an honor for us as a Mission to facilitate and receive ‘Mission Teams’ for service in Guatemala. These Teams come from across North America and give themselves sacrificially to serve from 7 to 14 days and give themselves to ‘Evangelism, Construction, Teaching, Food Distribution, Medical Outreaches and so much more. Truly they bless the people of Guatemala and we thank God for each and every Team.
However, we are increasingly aware of the impact on Team Members, the blessing they receive from our Staff, and the People we serve and I thought it would be good just to share a few testimonies from Team Members, trusting they will be an inspiration to you.
A Pastor wrote: ‘The effect of this Mission experience had on my personal and spiritual life was to focu..
04/05/2017
Dr. Sam Martin
Early in January, it was both an honor and privilege for me to be in Newfoundland, to preach and Commission the Mission Team from the Good Samaritan Church in St. John’s, and to meet with the Team from Avalon Search and Rescue, based in Bay Roberts, and speak at a Concert in Cavendish. Of course this included meeting some of our wonderful supporters and sponsors -The Newfoundlanders are special, special people! I could fill a years’ Blogs with stories of that time, but I want to share just one.
On a snowy Sunday afternoon, I was driven to Cavendish where Lori Fost, a tremendous supporter of AOJ had arranged a concert providing an opportunity for me to meet supporters and share about what the Lord is doing in and through the Mission. In spite of the weather a good number had gathered and the music, Gospel and traditional for the Concert, was provided by two Musical Groups, and it was a beautiful afternoon. However one song that was sung really challenge..
03/30/2017
Dr. Sam Martin
The LORD is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit. (Psalm 34:18)
Two weeks ago, my wife and I travelled to Guatemala not only to the Mission Campus, but to share in some special outreaches and celebrations. As we were preparing to leave, we heard on the News about a Home in Guatemala where at least 18 children had died in a fire. Needless to say, we were greatly disturbed and prayed for the families. Little did we realize how this was going to impact us, indeed break our hearts!
Arriving in Guatemala we heard various stories and red reports that included the following statements:
“These are the dumping grounds of society, for people who are not wanted by society, whether they are disabled or gay or happen to get there through the criminal justice system.”
“Guatemalan human rights officials said Thursday that they believe that the 35 girls who were killed when a
02/14/2017
Dr. Sam Martin
‘…and his name shall be ….’ Isa. 9 v 6
A few weeks ago I mentioned I was reading a tremendous book, ‘Fight for the Forgotten’ by Justin Wren and to be honest I am just halfway through it. This mainly because so many things the author says challenge me. As a result I take time to think deeply about these things and my blog this week, comes from one such challenge.
As you probably realize my name is Samuel Ramsay Martin and obviously I had no say in that choice, not that I have a problem with it and I recall years ago asking my parents where my name came from. The answer was interesting and humbling. I had an Uncle who served in the Army during the last war and tragically he was killed in the war. He was just 21 and to honor him I was given his name. Of course I never met my Uncle Samuel, but did see an old picture of him in uniform. My parents also..
02/01/2017
Dr. Sam Martin
‘…for God loves a cheerful giver.’ 2 Corinthians Ch. 9 v 7
In a recent article in ‘Faith Today,’ Darren Pries-Klassen told a story that spoke to me and that I feel is worth sharing with you.
‘A father often took his five year-old son to the local minor hockey league games. Each time they went they saw the same homeless man in the parking lot asking for donations. The first time the son asked his dad why the man was asking for money. Dad used this opportunity to talk to his son about people in need. The second time the son asked why everyone didn’t give the homeless man money, which gave the Dad a chance to share a lesson on charities and generosity. On their third trip to the rink, the young boy approached the homeless man. Suddenly, the boy reached into his coat pocket and with a big smile offered the man a small bag of coins. He smiled back, offering an appreciat..
01/10/2017
Dr. Sam Martin
“In all your ways acknowledge Him and He shall direct your paths.” Proverbs 3 v 6
On my desk is a little daily inspirational guide and it is called ‘a day brightener.’ I must confess, it is a real blessing and not only brightens the day, but challenges me as I seek to live for Christ, and lead the Mission. On January 4th, the title/theme was ‘I WANT YOU TO LEARN A NEW HABIT.’ This I have embraced and I want to share a little of the thought with you.
'Try saying, “I trust You Jesus” : in response to whatever happens to you. This simple practice will help you see Me in every situation, acknowledging My sovereign control over the universe. When you view events from this perspective, through the light of my Presence, fear looses it grip on you.'
On reading this, I decided to ‘learn this new habit’ and I confess it is a tremendous faith..
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