HARVEST HAVEN NEWSLETTER – December 2011

“For unto a Child is born, Unto us a Son is given; And the government will be upon His shoulder. And His name will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” Isaiah 9:6

Isaiah lived at a time when the “Promised Land” was a picture of gloom under the oppression and yoke of the Assyrians. This was because they turned away from God to worship idols and follow the abominable practices of the Canaanites. God was not about to give them up because of what they were but instead promised hope, light, joy, freedom and peace because of who He is (Isaiah 9:1-5). How did God do it? He gave His Son to be born into the world with the divine purpose of ruling it as a Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.”

Looking beyond Christmas, may we with expectant heart await the glorious return of our Risen, Living and Indwelling Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, to reign with Him on earth! 

A Joyous Christmas and a Blessed New year to you and family.

Pilgrimage to the Promised Land – December 2-12

We had the privilege of visiting the Promised Land with other Christians recently for the first time. Having read and taught Scriptures for over 40 years, it was an experience of a life-time to walk where Jesus walked, and see the places where he was born, lived, ministered, died and rose again. Reading the Bible will never be the same again! We asked our Jewish guides many questions, but sadly, although they could quote Scriptures and explain passionately about Jesus, they do not really believe in Him as the Son of God who gave His life for sinners. Rebuking the Jews of His days, Jesus said, “You search the Scriptures, for in them you think you have eternal life, and these are they which testify of Me, but you are not willing to come to Me that you may have life.” John 5:39-40. Pray for them, that they will turn to their Messiah, Jesus Christ, who alone is able to save and give life both to the Jews and the Gentiles.

Asia-Pacific Torchbearer Staff conference – October 21-28, 2011

We thank and praise God for the wonderful conclusion of the “Torchbearers Seven” staff conference in the Asia-Pacific region which include Australia, India, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, New Zealand, and Philippines, at Harvest Haven. We were challenged to live a life of prayer in humble submission to our Lord and Master who does all things well. May we be found faithful to the end in sharing the good news and may our zeal be met with fervor and fruitfulness and that God be glorified and people are blessed.

Project Ezra – We are still not able to start construction of this project this year for two main reasons: (i) The architectural plans are not ready (ii) Funds are still below our 50% target to start the construction. We have so far raised about 30% of the budgeted cost of RM1.30 million. Pray with us that God will provide through His people whom He has blessed to finish the work and enable us to move forward.

The project consists of a classroom, accommodation for students, guests, married staff, and the elderly. There will also be a multi-purpose hall, kitchen, cafeteria, office and bookshop. We invite you to invest in God’s kingdom and leave a lasting legacy that will help to reach out through training and equipping.

With the addition of the Project Ezra building, we would be able to conduct Bible school the whole year round, and train hundreds and thousands of  believers in years to come to “go…and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them... teaching them to observe all things…” (Matthew 28:19-20). Do you have a “donkey” or an “upper room” that the Lord could use? If you have His abundant blessings, would you let Him have them? More information on giving may be obtained from our website, <www.capernwray.com.my>, or just call 012-4884708, 05-3593255.

Staff needs – We have vacancies for the right person to work and serve here as:

-Business Manager cum Administrator (who will be responsible for the office and general administration. Paid position with 2 years commitment)

-Assistant Bible School Principal cum Dean of Students (English speaking, who will be responsible to promote the short term Bible school, look after students and teach some courses. January to March each year, 2 years commitment; Food and accommodation provided but need to raise own support. Retirees welcome to apply)

-Village Missionary (Chinese and Hakka/Cantonese, Tamil speaking, who will be responsible to plant churches in the neighborhood. 4 years commitment required; Food and accommodation provided but need to raise own support)

- House Keepers to do general cleaning and washing up (Paid position with 2 years commitment)

Contemplative Retreat – “Renewed to Serve” January 6-8, 2012

We invite you to spend time seeking the Lord and realigning yourself with His plans and purposes by taking time off at the start of the year. The retreat will be directed by Rev. Dr. Chew Tow Yow, a former Seminary and now adjunct lecturer. For more information visit our website.

Capernwray Bible School – January 30 to March 10, 2012

Do you always have a desire to study the Word of God and want to be grounded deeply in it? Here is your opportunity to invest 6 weeks of solid Bible teaching at Harvest Haven led by experienced teachers from USA, Canada, Germany, India, Singapore and Malaysia. No one should be deprived of studying the Word of God for lack of funds and we will sponsor any who needs financial help. Please email or call if God is leading you here.

Serving the King of kings and Lord of lords together,

John and Joyce Lee