To the church in Philadelphia...

"I know your deeds. See, I have placed before you an open door that no man can shut. I know that you have little strength, yet you have kept my word and have not denied My name." Revelation 3:8

John's writing to the church in Philadelphia, which means "city of brotherly love" in Greek. So He could be writing to our team, since we're a group committed to loving others :-) And He's giving us a promise & also words of encouragement: He's opened a door for us to go & share His love in Brasil, & no one is going to be able to shut that door. That's such a great reminder because as the trip gets closer the obstacles may mount - but we can stand on His promise: He's called us & has opened the door.

And He's also telling us that we don't have to be important or strong or skilled - we just have to love Him & stay faithful to Him & His word. That;s all we need to accomplish everything He's called us to.

Thank you, Father, for Your promises & Your loving words of encouragement. Write them on my heart & remind me of them every day as I prepare for Brasil. Help my wonderful teammates to be encouraged, too. In Jesus' name, amen.