Friends,
As many of you know, our family is ending the year in a state of transition. Please do remember us in your prayers as we wait for the Lord to reveal where He would have us go next. It is on our heart to purchase a large piece of property with the intent to provide for the surrounding community with both natural and spiritual food. (For those more curious on the specifics, please reach out and I have a business plan I would be happy to send to you)
So, though a part of me wanted to repeat our evangelistic letters from last year, I just never found the time. However, I will remind you of the three Mission Edition letters previously published, offering a short description and a link to download them, should you wish to hand them out, mail, or email them to someone the Lord brings to your mind.
01 | Warning signs. This is written to those who call themselves Christian, but demonstrate little to no evidence of true conversion. In short, this is for those who may be deceived.
02 | The simplicity of salvation. This is for those who are confused, troubled, or simply curious about this thing called salvation. It can sound daunting and mysterious. This letter simplifies it.
03 | The evidence. This is for both the skeptic and for the one who ever searches but can never seem to find the truth. The evidence exists. Your purpose can be found. This letter makes that clear.
Some of you will also remember the State of the Church Lists I wrote going into 2021 and 2022. I stopped writing these because I felt I was starting to repeat myself, the reason for which I believe to be two-fold.
First, the Church remains desperately in need of a true revival. While many complain about the times, and others isolate feeling the world beyond hope, we must be those who press in to cry out, “God, rend the heavens and come down. Shake the mountains at Your presence!” (see Is. 64:1)
Second, the truth does not change and the older I get the more I become convinced that there are no new or better messages. Instead, there is simply a need for men and women to trumpet the ageless truth again and again in the age in which they live.
That said, the previous lists, though I wish I had written them more clearly, may be worth revisiting.
2024 Plans
I do hope and plan, Lord willing, to continue my normal cadence of mailed letters next year. My aim is one per month.
Though I’m not a pastor, I still try and approach each of these letters as a shepherd. Carefully considering what I know of each of your situations. And speaking as one who is right there among you, rather than one throwing advice over a wall as they pass by. I hope the tenderness comes through, even as the truth itself can at times be cutting.
If you’re able, I’d love to hear from you. How are you enjoying the letters? How has the Lord used them? What questions do you have? Please comment below or send me an email: derek.gillette@gmail.com.
At the moment, I don’t have any other set plans for the publication in 2024, but this may change as the Spirit leads, and I am open to suggestions.
2024 Recommendations
Lastly, I’m constantly on the search for worthwhile resources to aid the Christian family in pursuing God and living wholly for Him. For though there is no shortage of books written, talks given, and songs sung — I’ve found the vast majority to be wanting when weighed. I make three recommendations below that I give without reservation.
Behold Your God Children’s Curriculum: We purchased this kit for all three of our kids still at home and have really enjoyed going through it as a family. We typically do one lesson a week. It’s interactive, simple, and also filled with truth, all with the intent to lead both child and parent to know and love God more deeply.
Psallos Worship: This wonderful group has taken the time to compose original music and lyrics based on whole books of the Bible. Hebrews is my favorite. Romans is great. If you’re looking for new God-honoring worship for your rotation, check them out.
An All-Round Ministry: I’ve really enjoyed reading this often-forgotten work of Spurgeon’s. If you’re going to buy and commit to reading one book in 2024, this is what I would recommend. (If you can’t afford the cost, let me know and perhaps I could purchase a copy for you)
In love,
Derek
P.S. Please do send a note if you’re able. I’d love to hear from you.