Missionary Friendships

Over the last few years, Jim and I have crossed paths with a number of missionary couples here in Woodland Park. Recently, we've been able to share meals with many of them, and learn from their experience. The ministry that each of these couples is involved in is very unique, but their hearts share a strong passion for reaching the lost.

Jeff and Jen Musgrave are involved with Push International. They collect and distribute wheelchairs to people in need around the world. Many of their trips have been to Mazatlan, and they often bring along their two young children. I have worked with Jen at MOPS, and Jeff owns his own business building antler chandeliers and sculptures... this allows them to commit so much to missions.

Tim and Laurie Thornton moved in two doors down right before Joel was born, answering a long-prayed prayer for another young mom to be close by us. They have a music ministry, reaching others through the powerful lyrics and music of the songs they write. They are incredibly talented musicians and vocalists. You can hear some of their music on their website. We have been introduced to a whole new side of missions that happens right here, and is incredibly culturally relevant.

We then met Chad and Nicole Corman a year and a half ago, after they returned from Malaysia. They are currently taking an extended furlough from that ministry as they work out some citizenship issues for Nicole. They have been in long term ministry overseas and are just an incredible resource for us. They also live about a block away!

Chad and Kristin Tabor work with e3 Sportreach. Chad uses the universality of sports to bring people together here in the US, as well as around the world, and shares the gospel with them. Most recently, Chad traveled to Argentina to run some soccer camps. Their summers are mostly spent here in the US, traveling around with their little girls and coaching kids at camps. Kristin is also Faith's teacher at MOPS, and Faith just loves her class.

Bruce and Bev McDonald are the grandparents of two of Faith and Joel's playmates here in town. Bruce is also our Sunday school teacher. Bruce was a chaplain for many years in the NBA, and now he and Bev minister to missionaries, traveling to attend retreats and conferences of missionaries. Missionaries don't typically get much time off, so these retreats are rare chances for them to be renewed themselves. Bruce and Bev give of themselves selflessly during these retreats.

It is incredible to see how God has placed all these people into our lives, little by little over the last few years. It is wonderful to have the wisdom and insight of those that have gone this path before us, are still on it, and continue to learn from it. We look forward to the missionary community we will have at RVA, but we feel so blessed to have one already!