(Letter from Ken Smith)

Well, the time has arrived for me to return to Pakistan. The building of homes is going remarkably well. So if it’s going well, why am I returning? I suspect some might be asking that. I need to give a little oversight to make sure everything is being built correctly and that the money is spent in a wise manner. But mostly what I want to do is demonstrate the love of Jesus in a tangible way. I’ve already developed good relationships with many of my Muslim friends there. I will be specifically focusing on the relationships of each man who is working for us. In their world, those who have the authority and power lord it over those who work for them. Of course, as servants of Christ, we will love them.

Here’s a paragraph out of a book I’ve been reading called “Healing the broken family of Abraham”.

Yes, this is about humility. The implications of this kind of humility are quite searching. Jesus let go of all of his Godly prerogatives and emptied himself– made Himself nothing. Jesus could have held onto his heavenly culture, whatever it was, but he didn’t. He emptied himself and took upon himself the cultural forms of a Palestinian, Aramaic speaking, Galilean Jew. He entered completely into the culture of the people to whom he was sent. He did not hold onto any of his heavenly privileges. He entered into His People’s world with true humility.

So, the reason we dress the way we do, act the way we act. and serve rather than being served, is because of this amazing example Jesus has set for us. I am learning more each time I go from Jesus and from them, exactly how to operate fully immersed in their culture. We’re not interested in changing their culture; we just want them to see Jesus. Us there, Him in us. Then the work becomes His work not our work. Our work amounts to nothing. His work is eternal and bears fruit. All I need to do is to get close to the source. (Jesus).

“He made his light shine in our hearts to give us the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Christ”. 2 Cor.4:6.

So if I’m faithful and obedient, the outcome of this trip is already determined. I just have to walk it out. Living this way is so freeing. But it’s not just for me, it’s for you also. When you’re praying for me, I will be praying for you.

One of the exciting things that will be happening is that Waheed will be returning with me. He will be living with Jonie and me for three months. He is very excited about coming here, and you will have an opportunity to rub shoulders with him.

In the meantime here’s what you can do. Continue to pray for Waheed. He will need support while here, so you can send checks to Omaha Rapid Response in his name. Just write a note don’t put in the memo. We also don’t have his airline ticket completely paid for, but we’re getting close, thanks to many of you. He has been overwhelmed with gratitude towards all of you that have helped him financially.

God bless each one of you.

Ken Smith

Donations can be sent to:
Omaha Rapid Response
PO Box 642323
Omaha, NE 68164