Good afternoon,

It was wonderful to be able to write you and ask for your prayers regarding David's laryngitis and needed voice for speaking Sunday morning. Thank you for the personal and truly encouraging notes (arriving almost immediately from two of you). That was something!

Here is what happened AFTER you were contacted: by the time church began on Sunday morning, God had restored to David a soft voice. That is what he used for the entire service. They also turned up the loud speaker system volume control. Mark, the Dutch ministry director AND the interpreter, had also been sick...from Friday through Sunday. However, he was able to hear David speak loudly enough to translate and get the message out. Also, unknown to us, it was Communion Sunday, and our God had led David to include in the message some moving specifics regarding the death of Jesus. The whole experience was just a wonderful evidence of the working and gracious ways of God. THANK YOU for the part you had in all of this. (Internet is frustrating at times, but it does have its moments!! :)

With our love,

David and Janice

Good morning,

It is Sunday, 3:30 a.m., and I can't sleep. We are in The Netherlands and are six hours ahead of you. God has put it in my mind to write and ask you to pray if you get this in time.

After a tremendous week of ministry and God-empowered Bible studies on the topic of "God's Testing Program" (which was very specific regarding the ways of Satan as he tries to foil God's purposes), the final session was Friday evening. Within minutes after its conclusion, David got laryngitis and lost his voice, and it has not yet returned. In fact, he just got up to take more medicine. The need? He is to leave to preach in 5 hours and 20 minutes (at our 9:15 a.m. on Sunday) Would you pray? The desire of our hearts is healing, but most of all we want His will. Feel free to share this request, and we will see what God will do.

Our love,

David and Janice

A CHRISTMAS LETTER TO YOU WHO MEAN MUCH TO US

December 22, 2009

Dear One,

The year's blessings have been rich and without number. They never would have been possible without this One we call Jesus. We lovingly devote this letter to Him and His birth.

Bethlehem and her inn were totally crowded and in great fuss and bustle. So much so that there was not a place made even for a mother-to-be, due in just hours, even moments! That's pretty incredible, to be that caught up in your own world that even a lady just about to give birth can't get some necessary consideration.

Contrast that scene with the nearby open fields and sky (GOD'S Inn, if you will). Absent was the hubbub. Present was…The GLORY! It flashed and shone all about the shepherds. They were frightened, then they were comforted by the angel bringing Good News of Great Joy. The News? Finally, the long-awaited Savior had come! Then came the instruction: "Go." And suddenly, on that lonely, expansive hillside under that endless swath of Heaven, there appeared with the angel "an army of the troops of Heaven - a heavenly knighthood - praising God and saying, Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth, peace among men with whom He is well-pleased - men of good will…." (Amplified Bible)

Our response to that scene can only be/it must be a hushed and holy, "Wow."

Just think. If these shepherds had been in town with all the action, they would have missed the flashing lights, the "Good-News-of-Great-Joy angel, the heavenly knighthood/army, the instructions and directions to the birthplace, and, most important of all, they would have missed the God-Babe.

How good it was that they were out in the fields where they could see, hear, listen to God point the way to His dear Son.

Here we are, some 2000 plus years after the fact. Our inns are bustling, as is all of life around us. Even if we ourselves are not running from place to place, our hearts and minds are.

In the midst of it all, today, this "grown-up" Son of God, Who was the co-equal God of the universe even before He ever was a temporary baby, is in His Heaven…and there He waits. HE waits for us. He has so much to tell us, just like the angels did so long ago. He longs for our undivided, peaceful, worshiping attention today.

This Christmas, may we learn well from those wise shepherds this lesson: take time for the field, the quiet place, the place where just God, we, and His Word are alone together. And, as we do, we will be available to let the wonder in and let The Glory diffuse into even the very deepest parts of our souls.

"Oh come to my heart, Lord Jesus; there is room in my heart for Thee."
In a nutshell, The Good News spoken so long ago was this: "For God so greatly loved and dearly prized the world that He even gave up His only-begotten (unique) Son, so that whoever believes in (trusts, clings to, relies on) Him shall not perish -come to destruction, be lost- but have eternal (everlasting) life. For God did not send the Son into the world in order to judge- to reject, to condemn, to pass sentence on- the world; but that the world might find salvation and be made safe and sound through Him." (John 3:16-17 A.B.)

Now, no matter where or with whom you spend Christmas, remember that the Guest of Honor always is waiting to be invited to your home and ours. May it be a happy and holy day.

One prayer request, please: David's 2nd cataract surgery is scheduled for December 28. Please uphold him in prayer, will you? Thank you. We look forward to catching you up on God's workings (in which you have had a part) in future e-mails.

Wishing you special Christmas blessings,

David and Janice Clemens

Dear Faithful Ones,

Welcome to autumn! It's a beauty. It's also time for an update.

My (Janice's) 2nd arm surgery was scheduled for tomorrow, September 23rd. During a pre-operation visit, the surgeon looked at my pre-op and post-op hand-strength figures for the completed left arm: strength improved from a "5" to a "10." Wonderful!!

Then he studied the pre-op and present strength figures for the "to do" arm; strength improved from a "6" to a "12" …WITHOUT AN OPERATION. He said that maybe God had been doing something, after all, and he exclaimed, "Hallelujah!" (His unexpected response meant more than his decision of NO SURGERY.) No surgery!!! Do you believe that? It was God, again!!!!!! We can together THANK Him. "Who is like unto our God?" "Great is the Lord and highly to be praised, and His greatness is so vast and deep as to be unsearchable... Of the glorious splendor of Your majesty, and of your wondrous works, I will meditate." (Psalm 145:3-5 Amplified Bible)

God says that one day is as a thousand years and a thousand years is as a day to Him. Time is no problem to a God Who spans eternity. Therefore, if you have been praying, even after this decision was made by the surgeon, I believe that God, Who knows all things of the future (as well as the present and past), knew of those prayers ahead of time and answered them in His own inimitable way. ("...in Your book all the days of my life were written, before ever they took shape, when as yet there was none of them." Psalm 139:15). No one will ever be able to convince me that Dr. Osterman performed surgery - meticulously, successfully, kindly - on the left arm, and God, unobtrusively, quietly, gradually, graciously, graciously - performed surgery on the right arm.

My David's lip is looking good. The doctor plans to biopsy it when travel stops in early December. The reason for the delay is that it will be open and sore for awhile. We are grateful for the physician's encouragement and the healing that has taken place in time for several overseas ministries. God always knows what's needed and when. Your prayers here are appreciated.

David is enjoying debriefing himself after the busy summer overseas and in US Bible conferences. Also, he's done much preparation for the coming five overseas trips and US preaching responsibilities scheduled for 2009.

We love God, and we love you. Thank you for being such an intricate part of all these things.

Many blessings,
David and Janice Clemens

Dear Ones,

Soon it will be time to print out the labels, look at your name, think of you, and pray for you…in alphabetical order. That is a great part of this process of sending out these letters. Also, we thank The Lord for the blessing of those who anonymously work so hard on each mailing. (You know who you are; thank you.)

We are in a great marvelous quandary. With every new trip there are so many blessings we just have not been able to keep after them and report them to you. Surely you are too busy to read about them all, SO, they will be broken down into three letters. This is the first. Cuba will be next, Lord willing. There's already enough for the third and fourth! Thank you for caring and being busy with your praying.

HOLLAND - FEBRUARY 2008 - David

1. Joining forces with Dutch believers on an urgently needed building project trip were four friends: Dick Losch, Ron Rapp, Dan Meade, and David Clemens. Both nationalities labored most diligently to help finish the work before spring conferences began. The new and refurbished buildings were completed on time and have been in use since April! That was hard work, but fun work for God. ("The joy of the Lord is your strength." Nehemiah 8:10)
2. After a very pleasant Valentine's Day Banquet speaking engagement a middle-aged couple (she/Dutch, he/American) waited patiently to talk with David; they just had to tell him their story. The three of them had a 30+ year history, and David had known nothing of it. It began when the lady, at 17 years of age, attended a conference in Belgium where David spoke. God ministered to her heart, and she genuinely committed herself to teaching the Word in a missionary venue. Next was in the USA. This couple were just sweethearts at the time AND students at Philadelphia College of the Bible (now PBU). After breaking up, the young man wanted to win her back, and the only way he could get her to go out with him again was to take her to hear "this David Clemens" who was going to be in a South Jersey church. She went, and the date blossomed into love and then marriage. There was much more, but the bottom line is that she is writing Christian Biblical materials used in The Netherlands. And her husband, under God, started and led a church there which has flourished for eighteen years, and continues strong to this day. (God has an absolutely perfect plan for each of us. We dare not miss it!! Note the five underlined locations; geography is no problem to our God. He spans the nations' borders. Psalm 139:7-10)

SPAIN 2008 - March 2008 - David and Janice

1. There is no substitute for the Word of God, at any age. Some years back, Director Isabelle had a Bible club of 5-years olds. Once when she was teaching a Bible story, a little girl asked, "Is that really from the Bible?" IMMEDIATELY Isabelle showed her the exact verse. Then in 5th grade the same kids learned seven reasons why the Bible is the Word of God taken from Steps to Maturity, the books David authored for teens an adults! The child still remembered it in high school and shared it with her peers. We must not waste child-hood; it is THE perfect teachable time of great truth and memorization. Jesus knew it well.
2. This year, The Spirit of God moved and stirred hearts in all of the services; ½ to ¾ indicated their promised decisions to follow God's will in specific areas dealt with, and to begin within 48 hours. It was so good to again see Him at work. To us, this never becomes commonplace and is always amazing to witness. Thank you for praying.
3. God has given another first for the year 2009. David has received requests for ministry from ten locations in Spain for next year; they come, literally, from around the country. This has been of the Lord. Scripture says, "Promotion comes not from the east or west or south. But God is the judge…" (Psalm 75:6, 7)
4. In one of the churches (which we love), the interpreter was in her 70's or 80's. She's the same lady who, last year, called to David as she began walking up the aisle to sit next to him, "Now speak slowly, Reverend; I haven't spoken English for a looong time." We appreciated her willingness and saw God work through it. Very special.
5. We learned of opposition to the Spanish ministry; it comes from both local authorities, local individuals, AND from overseas authorities (all the way in South America). Nonetheless, God is blessing His work in that land. Just recently we learned that a potentially great problem has "melted away"; God definitely did that. Personnel are few, but God plus one is a majority. It still takes a lot of courage and commitment; dare I say, it takes plain old guts? We saw faithful, unsung workers in desperate need of help. They were located in several cities, but serving the same Father. They and many others of like precious faith are worthy of our prayers. Maybe even some willing individuals will hear God speak and obey and help them.
6. The Word of God always has an effect on people; It either brings them closer to Him, or, by their choice, It drives them farther away. We are most grateful for all of those at the Family Bible Conference at the Mission Bethel Center. It was a privilege to see so many who came open, ready, and willing to listen to God's message for their lives. The results were these: they were changed, warmed, encouraged, and willing to let God orchestrate their lives. We also thank the Lord for the dedicated children's teachers who shared the Word, and for the young souls who drank in things of God they will never, ever forget.
7. How would you answer these questions? "Did Judas have to betray Jesus?" and "How can I really know what God's will is for me?" They came up after a large youth meeting where David spoke. On arrival it appeared that everyone would stand throughout the extended periods of games, singing, and the message. No chairs were set up in the room. We were thankful for a little (and I do mean little) mom who saw the need, got chairs put in place, and had everyone seated in a circular formation within minutes! The group was wonderful and listened attentively with a genuine interest. Afterwards, they asked many other questions besides those mentioned. We ended up leaving with the last of the group. God was surely speaking, and it was especially good to see His reception by this age group. "Remember now thy Creator in the days of thy youth…" (Ecclesiastes 12:1a)
8. At another church, there they were: two gray-headed men, both limping up the steps with their matching right knee replacements just before the message. His fine interpreter and David were headed for the pulpit. They both preached their little hearts out, one in English and the other in Spanish. Three thoughts crossed my mind.
   
   1. The pure teaching of God's Word is not diminished with the age of the teacher. It just keeps getting richer, and the truths of the Book seem to literally wash over the listener.
   2. Are there young men coming along to replace those who no longer can teach the Word? Statistics say the number is alarmingly low.
   3. Here are two men who are going to finish strong. Most inspiring.
9. We also had "kindred spirit" fellowship with a local missionary family whom God has brought to Bethel to work alongside the director. This is a true gift from Him!
10. After a particularly difficult spiritual battle, there were multiplied blessings. The leader simply said, "For every victory won a battle has to be fought." The apostle Paul agreed: "I have fought the good fight; I have finished the race; I have firmly held the faith. As to what remains, there is laid up for me the victor's crown of righteousness…" (2 Timothy 4:7-8)

MORE HOLLAND - Young Mother's Week - April 24 - May 2 - Janice

1. There was an unbelievable opportunity to share Christ with a young man during this transatlantic flight. Our fascinating and amiable conversation lasted solidly for four hours and was nearly all about God and religion. Please pray for "J." He has now heard the way of salvation and greatly needs to respond personally to Christ. I want to meet him over There.
2. The conference children were angels. (Would this qualify as a miracle?) I heard a baby cry only once, and she was waiting for her bottle. Older children played together with great glee. They listened attentively and learned much during super programs planned for them. Their workers were dedicated and truly anxious and happy to do a good and important job for their Lord. They taught the children, cared for the little ones, and served all.
3. The mothers were free from distractions because of the good behavior of their children. Some mothers had 3 children with them, and that included babes in arms. Another mother from a nearby town commuted to all but one meeting, and she brought her 4 daughters (baby through 11 years) with her. Another mother with migraine headaches and painful back disc problems had to lie on a cot during the sessions; she held her pencil and tablet up in the air so she could take notes. There's a lesson there!
4. The ladies were truly sponges. They soaked the Word of God into their very souls. When they were sharing publicly what God had taught them through the week, they had to be stopped so we could have time for the teaching segment. It was the Lord!
5. God is teaching their hearts as well as their minds; He is showing them how to make the transfer from head Truth to lived-out Truth, and they are putting to work the Biblical living skills which they have learned. Individuals shared how they had put into personal use the practical Biblical living skills of past years and how God had honored their efforts. Example: God leading through His Word regarding moving to another town and which house to buy. It was an exciting tale, and there were many more.

AS ALWAYS, IT HAS BEEN OVERWHELMING TO OBSERVE THE LORD'S DOINGS.

He has allowed you and us to work together. We have shared in the labor of planting; we now share in the joy of gathering in. We trust that this harvest report has been rewarding and encouraging. PLEASE PRAISE GOD (i.e., say Biblical, nice things about God to God), and thank Him for all He has graciously done. In I Chronicles 29:10-13 King David provides us with a good prototype for praise: "Yours, O LORD, is the greatness, …power, …glory, …victory, …majesty: for all that is in the heavens and earth is Yours; … In Your hand it is to make great and to give strength to all. Now therefore, our God, we thank You, and praise Your glorious name." (And so do we, Dear Father in Heaven!)

So grateful to be serving with you,
David and Janice Clemens

Dear Ones,

We have a keen desire and sense of responsibility to keep you informed. The reasons are:

1. it is our way of saying thank you for your prayers
2. it is Biblical
3. you surely deserve to know the God's answers to your steadfast, enthusiastic, even sacrificial praying
4. most importantly, God is worthy of credit for His constant, unwavering faithfulness.

During 2007-2008, this ministry has included nine extended overseas trips plus many in our USA. Now, with so many blessings "piled up," we are grateful for the time to catch up and share them with you. Please do not be surprised if you receive more than the usual in the next few months. (If you choose to read the whole letter, you might just want to do so in segments; I think it's a little long!)

CUBA REPORT - LATE MAY TO EARLY JUNE 2008

Because of the delicate political situation within that country, AND between our two countries, much will be omitted. Please know, however, that God really did protect and provide in unwritten and tremendous ways.

CONDENSED VERSION OF THE REPORT FOR THE FAINT OF HEART! (We still love you.)

On June 11, David phoned home from American soil! It was our first communication since his departure to Cuba on May 27. I love that first call after he returns to this country. While overnight in Florida awaiting his flight home on June 12, we talked for three hours; it was s-o-o good.

In a nutshell, here are some of the blessings of our loving Father. :

1. Dramatic help was sent from God when departing from Miami for Cuba.
2. Travel was safe.
3. Reception to the teaching of the Word was wonderful. In one church ½ responded to the invitation; in all other places, approximately ¾. Although his ministry destinations were all new this time, and the number of hours he would speak unknown, our Father was there, and HE was the one necessary Constant. He worked within these longing souls.
4. Several invitations were extended for a return trip.
5. Although it was hot and dusty, our God came up with another first; it was a graciously provided air conditioned bedroom for a few days at one of the teaching towns!
6. God placed people of his choosing to speed him on his way; it was amazing. I'd love to share more.

VERSES OF PROMISE

God always gives me a special verse(s) of promise before David makes a trip of this nature. This time it was Psalm 91:1, 4.

"Pinions." It's one of those "Bible words" I'd heard from childhood. Something to do with a bird. I saw it again the day before David's departure: Psalm 91:1, 4: "He who dwells in the secret place of the Most High shall remain stable and fixed under the shadow of the Almighty. … "He will cover you with His pinions, and under His wings shall you trust and find refuge." I looked it up. Amazing. The noun definition of "pinion" is "the terminal section of a bird's wing"; the verb definition of "pinion" is "to restrain (a bird) from flight especially by cutting off the pinion of one wing".

Note: in Ps. 91, "pinions" is plural. Both of God's "pinions" are present and poised for action. He is over us like a shadow, watching us closely. When we move, our shadow moves; and so does He. And, when He chooses to do something, or when the need comes, there is NOTHING that can impede His direct "flight" to us, posthaste (with all possible speed)! He does not flounder and flop around trying to somehow get to us. No, indeed. For, when His children are where they're supposed to be, and they need Him, HE'S THERE! What a word picture that is! And, if things don't go as we wished, God was still there, doing what He deemed best, and that in itself, makes it best! We just can't lose! (In modern day phraseology: "God is God, and no one can clip His wings!!!" … And so it surely was.)

A beautiful example of this occurred on the trip down.

From the get-go, our God proved Himself strong.

05/27: David flew to Miami, Florida, in order to depart to Cuba the next morning.

05/28: Arriving at the airport 5 hours and 10 minutes early (4-hour check-in required) for a 1 hour flight, the adventure started. Already, there were 7 luggage-filled carts in line…but no humans! He and his luggage were now #8. People filed in, and soon the line snaked back and forth behind him. After about 1 ½ hours, he realized that everyone else had migrated to the next agent, still in that confusing line. Since he was the only American and didn't know what was happening, instead of being 8th, he ended up being the last in line…and his bad leg was already killing him. An employee gave him a 2-page form to fill out…in Spanish. He was totally bewildered and forlorn, and had no idea what to write or how to get help. All at once, a door behind the ticket counter opened, and a lady walked through it. She continued out from behind the counter, then, proceeded past everyone else. She walked directly up to David, and asked, "Are you having difficulty? May I help?" As she looked at his efforts on the forms, she said, "Here, let me help you." With that, she completed the forms, returned them to him, turned around, walked back past everyone else in line, back behind the counter, and back through the door.

While still in line, David called me; we both said, "It's the Lord."

Near the end of the very involved check-in process, this same lady re-emerged and helped again when David needed a faulty flight seating assignment fixed. As previously, when she was finished, she just left.

RANDOM SAMPLINGS OF DAVID'S 13-PAGE, HAND WRITTEN TRIP JOURNAL

He didn't know they would be in print, but I have permission to share them. They may give you a flavor of the trip. His direct quotes are underlined and in "quotation marks." (Added explanations are in parentheses.)

"God did it." (Written in margin next to a special account)

"God, again." (Written in margin next to another special account)

"I just had yet another attack." (These "attacks" are strong abdominal pain and upset; they are from residual intestinal damage from amoebic infections picked up in Argentina 40 years ago. Sometimes the cause can be determined; sometimes it can't.)

"I will be speaking 4 times a day…to missionaries and pastors."

(Someone shared with David): "I struggled for 3 years with a big problem. God brought you to Cuba just to tell me this truth. My Pastor said these are deep/important things…."

"At the invitation, almost all responded. Some raised hands immediately. Some would not put hand down. One remained in prayer after meeting was over until others left." "God did it. God be praised…a good meeting… He (God) was made to look good, but it cost these attacks. I pray He's excited with me 'cause I haven't complained but said thanks. I hope Heaven watching & people see I love God for who He is (like Job) and not 'cause what I get from Him."

(Someone shared with David): "The studies result in me being revived, comforted, and given new strength."

"In a church service, a man asked for a word of encouragement in loss of baby. God gave me answer on spot."

"My students were waiting for me in morning every day. After breaks (4 sessions) they see me coming, jump up from waiting & come to (yet another) meeting." (The students were pastors who'd come for the week-long study institute; they stayed in local homes.)

"Didn't sleep so well. Nightmares again. Meeting. Nice group. ¾ responded. God changed my mind from planned sermon last night & it was good that He did, though I didn't realize it until I was done preaching. Virtually all present responded. I very grateful. Ate. Another attack."

"Violent thunderstorms. Blackout for 2 hours. Went to church to preach. There was a block/birthday party -- LOUD music. Preached. Almost all responded. God did it. Some put up hands and never took them down till I finished praying. Pastor doing good job, but hard for him. God bless him."

"6 hours of teaching in this heat is tough."

"God gave me words right in middle of message."

"Ones here who do honor God see OT (Old Testament) miracles of shirts, shoes, etc. not wearing out. God does it." (Deuteronomy 29:5)

ALSO FROM THE JOURNAL ARE THESE PRECIOUS WORDS SPOKEN BY PASTORS/SEMINARY LEADERS BEFORE HIS DEPARTURE

"Be happy. Thank you for teaching us missionaries. Please come back to Cuba. We will be waiting to welcome you."

"If God wills-another year, other meetings and meetings again & again & again. We want him to come back to teach us how to be qualified to be able to work for God."

"David will be happy if we transmit what we received…. He served well for us. We are happy with his teaching."

"The Pastor, in front of everyone, invited me back to teach Biblical living skills."

"Thanks for work done here. Tell your family in America you have a family here who cares about you and who's praying for you."

HEARTSTRINGS

Now you can see why message preparations, 3+ inch-thick files of paperwork / permissions, and 1 ½ years of effort were well worth it. In a word, our heartstrings have become wrapped around these dear ones who so desire and appreciate the teaching of the Word of God. Those strings become increasingly snug with each trip. Consider the following vignettes.

1. An older lady saw David hand washing his clothes and insisted on doing it herself. Every so often, she'd hold her one arm with the other hand and say, "Mucho dolor!" ("Much pain!") He later found out she'd been doing this task with a broken wrist. Bless her heart.
2. A pastor couldn't get over him going to his church. It's not in a big city, and conditions are more difficult. He said "No one wants to come here."
3. Another leader's words were, "I know that 'they' told me you could speak for 8 am to noon and 2-4 pm, but could you add another session for us?" (Answer: "Yes, dear One. If you and your good folks want to hear God's Word…YES, the answer is surely 'YES.'") Asking that of one who loves to tell The Story is like throwing a steak bone to a dog!
4. In one church, the message was about a particular sin. In the middle of the message, a gentleman stood up, started to cry, and said, "I did…." and he named a similar sin. There is deep, deep sadness in such a statement, but there is huge hope and freedom of forgiveness for one who sincerely makes all things right with God. So it was with this special humble man.
5. At another place, as the pastor was making the introduction, he basically re-preached a lesson David had given several years ago. (No waste there!) "Cast your bread upon the waters; for you will find it after many days." Ecclesiastes 11:1; "...My Word...shall not return unto Me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I sent it." Isaiah 55:11
6. This will be interesting to those of you who do remember (and those who don't) the missionary news perhaps of the century, namely the martyrdom on January 8, 1956, of five young missionary men by Auca Indians on "Palm Beach" near Shell Mera, Ecuador. David had opportunity to spend time with a man who grew up with these five families. He called the wives "Aunt Rachel" (Saint), "Aunt Betty" (Elliott), "Aunt Barbara (Youderian)," etc. It was an intriguing and most informative encounter, particularly since David has been intently studying the event and had just finished reading End of the Spear by Steve Saint. (David was his cabin counselor at Sandy Hill Boys' Camp in the 60's). Another link was when David was in missionary training in Argentina, South America, some forty-four years ago; he taught a Bible Study in the home of Nate Saint's brother, Phil, and over the fireplace mantle hung the spear that killed Nate on the beach as they were trying to make contact with the Aucas for the sake of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. It was through this event that David (and many others) rose up to answer the call of Christ and take their place in the cause of world missions. Interesting note: Five years earlier, James Elliott, one of the five, wrote in his diary: "When it comes time to die, make sure all you have to do is die."
   
   A different precious pastor's wife at each location faithfully prepared David's food, one calling ahead to the next with instructions. In spite of the great care of their preparations, he had several "attacks." Nonetheless, God somehow orchestrated them to fall BETWEEN speaking and traveling responsibilities, even on a 5-hour bus trip. That always amazes! Again, we said, "It's the Lord."

REQUESTS: PLEASE PRAISE FOR ALL THAT IS PAST, AND PRAY THAT…

1. …leaders, teachers, missionaries, directors, pastors overseas and here will be tenacious and passionate for the study and teaching of Scripture, not only in word, but in practice. Talk and life MUST agree; there can not be a disconnect. Pray for continued courage/protection/peace for those who stand alone.
2. …the first three weeks of September will truly be a much needed break in the intense schedule which has been going on since February. Please pray for his mind, body, and soul to rest and become refreshed for all that lies ahead on (and off) the itinerary.
3. …God's direction will be clear in planning future itineraries and that He'll keep working strongly throughout the 2008 itinerary.
4. …"J" (from the airplane conversation) will write us or that God will use another person/means to encourage him into life with Jesus Christ.
5. …Medical "stuff" will be handled quickly, per God's best will.
   1. David's lips and face - The sores closed and looked good…in time for Cuba and Holland trips. We await further word regarding the diagnosis. The next appointment: 09/08).
   2. Janice's arms/hands - The results of surgery #1 were: fast healing, added degree of hand strength and hand mobility, cessation of physical therapy. Arm #2 surgery: 09/23.
   3. We thank the Lord for His gracious timing and His good purposes. His ears were open to the requests of so many of you concerning both of these health issues. His answer was, "Yes," this time; if it's "No" in the future, we shall remember, God is always good.
6. …although recent meetings in Cuba (as well as Holland, Spain, Zambia, and our USA) have ended, the precious Spirit of God will continue to lovingly draw individuals to Himself. Many need to accept Christ as their own Savior; many need prayer; many need encouragement; many need God's strength to conquer addictions/habits/doubts, but they must choose to allow Him to help them in HIS way.

ONE LAST THOUGHT

After David's return from Cuba, actually, after he departed to Holland, a message came from a very, very dear brother who was speaking about the Cuba ministry. He provides a glimpse of the privilege God has given to go to these valued friends of our Father. The note is quoted as we received it; we wouldn't WANT to change it: "As our Lord is faithful for ever and ever. I am sure that His name was glorified and His people were greatly blessed! Oh my brother! Thanks for ministry to our Peoples in the Caribbean."

Those words, "Oh my brother! Thanks…" are incredibly moving to us. They sound like the Apostle Paul speaking; he repeatedly addressed his dear ones in that way.

And to you who, by many different means, have aided in this trip (and all others, as well), we join this faithful one of another country and reiterate to you his words: "Oh my brother (and sister)! Thanks." You remain a huge blessing to us. If you only knew. (Maybe you do.)

Gratefully serving with you,
David and Janice Clemens

Although David and I are separated by the Big Puddle, we send a joint letter to you.

Here are some "requests" which have moved to "praises" list :

1. God's Spirit touched many hearts in The Dutch camp last week; about ½ indicated so in the meetings. The majority of the most moving accounts of His working are very personal, and the individuals could be easily identified by those who know them. So, suffice it to say that, midst the sad, even the devastating circumstances in several of their lives, God gave hope and victory and direction and help. Surely you prayed, He listened, and was pleased to minister in the heart of obedient mankind. A lot of seeds were planted, a lot of water was poured, and a lot of growth occurred at Stationstraat 2, Putten, The Netherlands. (I Corinthians 3:6, 7). And, for a known fact, that work continues, even post-conference.
2. "It's the Lord," (John 21:7) best explains what God did regarding our changed/ canceled plane tickets. First, last Wednesday a friend and I prayed at about 10:30 p.m. asking for God's help in the call I was about to make. (Maybe you prayed at the same time?) One-half hour later, the airline agent was telling me that it would cost $1,141 extra for David just to return from Holland on a different date; there were no other options. That's one thousand, one hundred forty-one dollars!!!! I could not purchase that. Crying out to God after the call, He spoke just beautiful things through I Chronicles 29; how I wish I could share it with you!! "Let Me do this My way; it will be good," He whispered. Too tired (and flaky) to pursue it further then, it seemed wiser to get sleep. Undoubtedly covered with prayers, I called the airline again the next morning. God's handpicked agent answered, and, after hearing the problem, said, "Let me check…" In less than 5 (that's f-i-v-e) minutes she came back on the phone: "We've got it: your husband's first choice return date, and instead of $1,141, it will be…$180. Silence. Tears of amazed gratitude. A word to her: "You were given us by God; thank you." An opportunity to witness. Another "Thank you and good bye." And then, in wonder, there was the question of how to verbalize a thanks that reaches so far down deep into the heart that one can not find words to tell Him. How does one even begin to express all of that, to say thank you to the God of gods, Who dwells in Heaven, yet Who met with us in a 3-way phone conference to change an airline ticket? How? The answers to ALL things are in His Book, and this was no exception. Daniel 2:20-23. The occasion was after God revealed the king's dream and its interpretation to Daniel, thus saving all of the royal diviners' and advisors' lives, and pleasing the king. Daniel's immediate response was this prayer; by the telephone I read it aloud to this God of Heaven: "Blessed be the name of God for ever and ever! For wisdom and might are His! He changes the times and the seasons, He removes kings and sets up kings, He gives wisdom to the wise and knowledge to those who have understanding!…I thank You and praise You, O God of my fathers, Who has given me wisdom and might and has made known to me now what we desired of You; for You have made known to us the solution to the king's problem." There was no other explanation: it was, indeed, The Lord.
3. There was a truly God-honoring funeral of a dear and faithful brother in Christ who, with his good wife, gave of his skill and strength to the work of God in Holland for decades. We wonder what his busy hands have been assigned to do in his new Home. David went to give encouragement, yet, at the same time, received encouragement from a considerable number who, over a 35 plus year-span, have sat and listened to thousands of hours of teaching of the precious Word of God at the Camp. May the sheaves of Psalm 126:6 keep coming.
4. He also got good sleep for last 2 nights (8 hrs, 7 hrs). Maybe you prayed about that.

1. David, in Holland until July 22, will eat and sleep well, be rested, know God's mind for each session, compress some of the preparation time, and have some fun!
2. In the remaining weeks, all hearts will be soft to hear what GOD wants to say to them. The 20+ age group began yesterday, Monday.
3. The staff will have necessary strength of body, soul, and spirit.
4. Mark (director, translator, and much more) and David will both have great wisdom from God to answer the multitude of questions that many have saved up all year to ask.
5. Victories won in the past will remain victories!
6. Some who have turned from God will yet return to Him, especially young adults.
7. Both nerve surgeries for Janice will be successful, if God wills it. I am and will be sorely missing friends, ministry, and my David for the duration of the entire trip this year, but am content. Plus, it is proving to be a time provision for new office projects and office work, so that is a good thing.

(Thanks much for caring inquiries; I'll do my best to explain.

1. Problem: strength loss and nerve deterioration in both hands. Without surgeries, dying nerves would cause paralysis from the fingers up the arms, leaving claw-like hands.
2. Diagnosis: the nerves leading down the arms to the hands were compressed/ kinked/twisted at the elbows.
3. Treatment: surgery to fix "kinks," shave bones, and reposition nerves. Some strength is already returning in the left arm. Six weeks of therapy, a surgeon's appointment, and right arm surgery "cometh." God has again been most protective, even in such unknowns as these. He's always giving new, fresh mercies.)

Thank you for praying for this work and for us. We thank God for friends and colleagues in the faith. Nobody makes them like He does. Thanks to each of you for your part.

Yours,
David and Janice Clemens

Dear Ones,

Because your prayers, gifts, and care have been involved in this ministry, we firmly believe that it is our privilege and responsibility to report to you, and that you'll really want to hear the workings of GOD. We also realize that, especially now, everyone is busy and pressed, so this letter is in segments. Enjoy the blessings in sections, if you will. And remember, if you think this letter is long, it started out as 9 pages!!!

SUMMER'S END
When we walked into our house on Aug. 26, we'd been home a total of 1 day in the last 67. It was sweet! But, as well, it was great to be away. The things that took place this summer leave no doubt in our minds that there were prayers of deep sincerity, of faith, and of genuine interest in the plan of God being fulfilled.

It was a time that was not without obstacles with which to deal; it happens overseas every summer. In 2004 there was the occult; 2005 there were sex issues of all varieties; this year was fraught with health issues. It involved the young and normally hardy director in Holland (passing out, hospital care needed); his wife and children (all sick with flu-like symptoms); the young director's wife in Italy (2nd experience with cancer, involving major surgery while we were there); David's unexpected dental needs in Italy and a 24-hour-something in Holland. I had two non-elective eye surgeries before departure in June, was sick and on antibiotic for three weeks in two countries, and had a serious mouth infection. Even after our arrival home, we had 13 medical appointments in 25 days. In ALL of these situations, we saw that, again, it was all about God. HE enabled. HIS timing was perfect. HE made sure that nothing had to be canceled. Isn't it just something????

SUMMER MINISTRY
Through the preaching of God's Word, "the pot was stirred" in the souls of individuals, and the Holy Spirit impressed these teachings on the minds of the youth and adults. HE poured out His Spirit and moved hearts to seek personal counsel regarding specific situations in their lives. There were so many instances that we lost track of them. Finally, counseling sessions had to be limited to one hour each due to time constraints. Unbelievable! Sometimes as the stories and sad situations would be unfolding, the interpreters' and our eyes met, and that meant, "Help, dear Father; please give us Your answer." And He DID. What wisdom lies in the mind and Word of God (and often in the nick of time). We claimed Ex. 4:12: "…go, and I will be with thy mouth, and teach thee what thou shalt say." (Your prayers were a part of this.) Then, when the sessions would be over and the persons gone, the interpreters and we would just sit there in total wonder at the way God had communicated HIS answer THROUGH PORTIONS OF HIS WORD which had been FAR from our thinking beforehand. It was exciting. It was living on the edge, just trusting God to truly give the words and practical applications that HE wanted. GOD AND ONLY GOD gets the credit, as HE AND ONLY HE GAVE THE ANSWERS. II Peter 1:1-4 never ceases to amaze: ALL we need for life and Godliness is in God's Word.

PRAYER REQUESTS Please pray...

1. that God's children will be characterized by the words, "Let's see what the Bible says," instead of "I think/I believe/I feel/so-and-so says in his book." May The Word of God be our Final Authority.
2. that the work of God begun in hearts during the last months will continue.
3. that God will give us the Biblical answers to difficult questions we are asked.
4. for wisdom and guidance in scheduling, even when it's for three years ahead.
5. that the Cuban government will grant a visa for David to go there this January, God willing. There's much change right now in the Cuba work. New Christian leaders are unknown to us and vice versa. Therefore, to our knowledge, the process seems to be at a standstill.
6. regarding the trip to Cuba. Conditions are tenuous; it is not always safe, and it is very physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually demanding. Yet, souls are calling for the teaching of God's Truth. If He wills it, the dates are January 22 - February 7, 2007.
7. for available flights for Cuba trip.
8. for precise direction from the Holy Spirit and Holy Word regarding teaching preparations for Cuba and all 2007 meetings. Quiet, clear time is needed.
9. In the words of a new friend in Italy, request "that God would continue to give wisdom and strength to announce His wise counsel."
10. for David,s several medical needs, for rest of mind, and good sleep. Medications play a big role here.
11. For some folks who've walked away from God, or, at least, taken a side road. It makes the heart heavy. We've seen that three times this summer; it's happened to people we know and love, individuals who have made some tremendous strides in their spiritual walk over the last years. But, God has always given people the right to choose. And He still does.

PLEASE GIVE THANKS

1. for all ALL the blessings listed in this letter. "It's the Lord" Who has done it.
2. that our God granted the USA license for David to travel to Cuba.
3. that David's hearing issue is MUCH better and for the expert help God sent us.

DREAMS COME TRUE
Sometimes God uses certain individuals to be His special helpers. They help make dreams come true. Such a one saw to it that David, a cowboy at heart, in spite of his bad leg, bad back and bad other things, FINALLY got to ride a horse again. (We have a picture to prove it.) He's been leery of it, but still kept the dream alive for probably 40 years. He rode, and he did not fall. Thanks to the ones who made it possible… That was a memory to last a lifetime.

SINCE YOU'VE ASKED, HERE IS THE STORY OF THE "EYES BLESSING" - It was all about God, and we can only bow with grateful hearts for this tremendous experience. We did not even know there was a problem, but if I had not gone to the particular eye surgeon when I did, and if I had not had the two surgeries before departing for overseas, there could have been a very different ending. I learned that if the acute stage had occurred overseas away from help, I would have ended up permanently and totally blind in 2-5 days. BUT GOD (I love those words) had it all under control, and we praise Him for allowing me to go overseas in time to speak; for helping with packing and message preparations for David and me; for a flight change (the last available flight) and a reduced fare; for providing incredibly beautiful, God-orchestrated opportunities to share the Good News with medical personnel, flight seatmates, etc; and for your prayers. (Thank you.) God's intricacies have been incredible to chronicle. How good it would be if only we would always see things from Heaven's viewpoint!

AS PROMISED BY HIM, GOD'S WORD HAS NOT RETURNED VOID, BUT HAS ACCOMPLISHED THE PURPOSE WHERETO IT WAS SENT." Hear it from the listeners' own hearts. Picture yourself around the late night campfire testimony time in The Netherlands, Spain, Italy, Poland, or our USA, 2006.

1. From Poland: "I hope you remember me. I'd like to … say that the lectures you had were too good to keep them for myself so I shared almost all of them first with my Sunday school class and then during our weekly prayer meetings with other members of my church. Moreover, since I tried to use all possible occasions to share them with everybody willing to listen, I was also invited to share them with the group of women at their women's meeting in another church. What the highlight of all this was, however, was that the Lord quickened me to share a fragment of your lectures on Jesus asking Peter, "Do you love me?" - guess where - on our cruise across the Sea of Galilee in Israel during my trip to Israel this April. After this some people came up to me and thanked for sharing that as they felt it was the message addressed to them and they had never heard such words before. I'm writing this to glorify God Who gives good seed of His Word that can bear fruit much beyond our expectations."
2. From Italy: "At the end of this day, I have completely understood and made mine the fact that OBEDIENCE is the center of all."
3. From Italy: "When you talked about Isaiah 41:10 and I listened, the tears came like waves on my heart and my face. Now, thanks to your studies, I am able to see the love of God for me."
4. From Italy: "We will return to our homes encouraged and aware of the many adjustments that need to be made in our lives. God's living and powerful Word did the job again. We love you." (And we love you, too!)
5. From The Netherlands: "Three years ago we bought the teacher's manual Steps to Maturity. Now we are planning to teach our students from it, but their English is not good enough. Do you know whether there are translations made in Dutch?" (Yes, sections of these books which David wrote are, indeed, in Dutch, and the process of translation continues to this day.)
6. From The Netherlands: (a girl in one of the camp rooms) "The girls in my room and I have started an online prayer group. We all look forward to what God'll do."
7. From Cuban seminary student: (Some may remember the need of this pastor for a horse.) "We've been working during almost a year here in … The church is growing slowly, but growing. We work at a little village. I have already, not a horse, but a mule for the work here."
8. From USA: Dave, I just wanted to drop you a note to thank you for the influence you had in my thinking both at Camp Sankanac during a retreat and when you spoke at Washington Bible College in chapel at least 30 years ago. I've used a quote from you many times when speaking at camps or at ladies' retreats. The quote was, "You're not what you think you are, but what you think, you are!" … Thanks again for proclaiming God's Word. God's Word does not return void! Praise His Name!
9. From Europe: "You shared in my struggles, and I really desire you share in my joy now as well…After our talk I still felt spiritually dry and miles away from Home. Nevertheless, I made the decision to cling to the few words you gave me: "Trust Me…God. Mk. 5:36). One of the first things I did was put the little piece of paper with those words on it on my computer screen and tell God that I would do this. And I added, 'I believe, help my unbelief.' … I went (for a trip) and had the privilege of sharing the Gospel with the people there. During that time God gradually softened my heart and confirmed the words "Trust Me." I was led by God to pray, encourage and love others. It has been a wonderful time and has renewed my faith."
10. From USA: We just recently learned about something that happened approximately 10 years ago at a Bible conference where David was speaking. In attendance were three pastors and their wives. All three were planning to leave the ministry because of discouragement. When the topic was announced, they knew God was in it: "Have You Ever Been Discouraged?" The Word of God was Seed sown on the good soil of their hearts; two continue in ministry for our Savior on earth, and the third finished strong, all the way to Heaven.

"HOUSEKEEPING CHORE" OF OFFICIAL BUSINESS STRICTLY FOR YOUR INFORMATION:
"The law allows a deduction to be taken for the year during which the gift is made.... This means that if you send a check to a charitable organization through the U.S. Postal Service, the postmark must be on December 31, 2006, or earlier for the gift to be deductible in 2006." It applies to this ministry, as well. Thank you.

We close our letter with unending thanksgiving for you, our friends and comrades in the work of the King. Thank you. And, with no "think-so's or hope-so's, we pay homage to the King of all the Christmases Past, to the King of Christmas Present now seated at the right hand of God the Father and lives to make intercession for us, and to the King of Christmas Future, before Whom EVERY knee shall bow down and worship as King of Kings and Lord of Lords throughout all of eternity. MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!!!!!!!!!

In Jesus' Name and love,
David and Janice Clemens