Today we are faced with many challenges, and with every challenge there is a decision that must be made — “And we all, with unveiled face, beholding the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from one degree of glory to another. For this comes from the Lord who is the Spirit” (II Cor. 3:18 ESV). But God says, “I pour My very Life into you, and all you have to do is receive Me.” Then, it seems the challenges disappear, and there is victory!
Second Semester Begins — Each semester begins with Orientation and Prayer Day! The students divide into prayer groups to pray for the new semester, the students, staff, faculty and special prayer requests. It is a spirit-filled time which prepares the hearts and minds of everyone for a new semester. Afterward, the students have “Brigada.” In Illongo, this means “Clean-Up Time.” Everyone pitches in to work and clean up the college campus grounds and buildings. There is always a spirit of unity as they combine work and fun to get the job done!
• World Mission Day — Dean of BMA Bible College (BMABC) Marie Jan Samson shared the following concerning involvement with BMA Global’s World Mission Day: “BMABC joined the concerted effort of raising funds for missions in our corner of the world! February 27 was set aside as a special day to promote and do our part. It was a wonderful service filled with encouragement from the Word of God through the school president, Dr. Doug Lee and beautiful songs by the BMABC choir, led by Jefhen Kish Balboa and our BMABC male quartet. The students have been saving their money and an offering of P15,500 (approximately $275 US) was collected for the BMA of the Philippines Missions Department. To God by the glory!”
• Every Tongue, Every Tribe, Every Nation! — To prepare our students, who are our future Asia-Pacific missionaries, the BMABC hosted a Cross-cultural Training Seminar on the campus. Some of our graduates have already committed to a calling to go to other Asian countries and, using the example of Paul, going as “tentmaker” missionaries. They will enter with work visas, start a ministry and eventually plant churches. We have gifted pastors, teachers and workers, who are capable of learning languages and merging into other cultures easily. BMA President Dr. John David Smith gave words of encouragement and wisdom, along with BMABC Alumnus Melanie Bliss who is now living in Australia.
Pastor Vincent Ferrer and Pastor Gil Gasataya led the conference and taught our students how to adapt to living in a different country with diverse values, beliefs and customs. A healthy adjustment to culture shock and to the physical, social and distinct mindsets of another country can make a difference in the success of the mission work. We will do a Part II soon, with training in communicating the gospel to these nations. Pray for our students as they use this training to carry the Great Commission to other countries.
• College Week — The students used the cross-cultural theme for their College Week activities. They dressed in costumes depicting different countries and learned to cook the special delicacies from each country. They studied the culture of the land they represented. Some of the activities were basketball, volleyball, storytelling, talent contests, Bible drills and the Amazing Race! It culminated with the crowning of Mr. and Miss BMABC.
