Davis Jim Cindy 2005 PapuaNewGuinea

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From: "Jim & Cindy Davis" <[email protected]>To: "Director PBT/PNG" <[email protected]>Subj^cfe-Pebiuaiy PrayerUJ^ate

Sat 12 Feb 2005 08i5^2S^+1000X-Mailer: RTfiUrosoft OutioofrtMOTBuiid 9.0.2416 (9.0.2911.0)Importance: NormalX-Virus-Scan: Clean

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Dear Friends, Family, & Supporters;

We hope this message finds youwell and that 2005 has begun in a positive way for you all. Although our's beganon a rather sad and stressful note, we are beginning to look forward to the year and all the events ahead of us.Thank you so muchfor the prayers for us during the events following John Relyea's death at our Annual GeneralMeeting in January. Please continue to lift up Marsha Relyea and the kids, Heather, Brigette, and Bobby.Brigettewill be returning to PNG in a couple of weeks to finish out her Senior year at Ukarumpa InternationalSchool. Marsha, Heather, and Bobby will return a later date for the dedication ceremony of the Aruamu NewTestament and to tie up loose ends before returning to the US to settle. Pray that the Lord will give Marsha cleardirection about where to go from here.

Our mid-term visit to Ukarumpa to see our kids is here and we plan to drive up on Monday (14th) and stay aweek. We will celebrate Jim's and David's birthdays while there. As always, we pray for good family time, nosickness, no car trouble, and no major papers or projects due in school during the week we are there. The kidsall seem to be doing well. Keren had a bit of a rough start since she was adjusting to a new hostel, but seems tobe fine now. Michael is on the A Basketball team and enjoying it to the hilt. David is doing well too. He willbe playing his guitar as the background music for the Valentines Dinner this weekend.

In the early part of March, the two of us will be cashing in our frequent flyer miles and traveling to Auckland, NewZealand to visit some good friends of ours, Jeff & Robin Vines. This is a belated 20th anniversary celebration (ouranniversary was Nov. 23) so we hope to enjoy it spending some time with good friends, spending some time onour own, and also sharing with the church there about our work in PNG. Itwill be a much needed time of R & Rso be praying that our plans work out and that the kids don't have any major crises while we are out of thecountry.

Before we close, we want to ask your prayers about a particularly heavy burden that is weighing on us at themoment. You will remember that while we were on furlough, we were able to purchase the house we were livingin. Our intention was to put it on the Day Rental market to cover the payments and according to information wehad at the time, it seemed like a realistic endeavor. However, that whole rental scene has changed dramaticallysince around the time we left Tennessee and we and the folks looking out for our interests there in Pigeon Forgehave been unable to find renters. Ifwe can't find someone to rent the place soon, we feel we will have to put it onthe market and sell. We hate to have to do this as it would have been such a blessing to have our own place toreturn to while on furloughs. It seemed so much like God's provision at the time. We don't look forward to havingto tell the kids about the possibility of having to sell, either, as they were also very excited about having a home ofour own. This will be a disappointment to them. We will also have to deal with getting our furniture out of the andinto storage. But we are prepared to let go of it if that's how the Lord leads. So pray that we'll have clearguidance about this and that ifwe do try to sell, that the Lord will provide a buyer.

One other area of concern/praise comes later this year, but looms larger and larger all the time. Michael willgraduate from Ukarumpa High School on June 22nd. After that he will come to Madang for a few weeks, andthen hopefully will be able to participate in the MK re-entry retreat at Biola University, sponsored by Barnabas,International. We are trying to get his application in, but fear it may be too late...so pray about that. The plan alsocalled for me (Cindy) to escort Michael back to the U.S. and get him situated and start college at Johnson BibleCollege. The more time draws near, the more I feel like I don't want to do that alone. So we are hoping that I cancome with Michael in late July, and Jim to join us (David and Keren will be at school at Ukarumpa) later in August,and help me with getting Michael squared away, and then both of us return together. (I have told others that Ineed Jim along to make sure I get on the plane when the time comes to say good bye to Mike) Please pray forwisdom in this. Pray that funding for the tickets would be there, should we decide we both should come back.

Printed for Georgia Sharpe <[email protected]> 2/16/2005

Christopher powell, 03:00 PM 1/27/2005 -0600, RE: HORIZONS of2

Pray for wisdom for both ofus and pray for Michael, especially during hislastsemester in high school.

We depend on you and and love you all very much.

Cindy (for all of us)


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'[email protected]>jubiectiJ^avis-Monthiy Update

Dear Loved Ones,

"And we know that in all things that God works for the good of those who love him, who have been calledaccording to his purpose." Romans 8:28

How many times have we quoted that verse, either to ourselves or to others, when difficult circumstances arise?How many times has that verse comforted us and assured us that God is indeed at work in our liveswhen it hasfelt like He was no where to be found? I have found myself reciting that verse over and over the past fewmonths...we have had things happen here in the last two months that have rocked and shaken not only our world,but the world of fellow mission agencies, and of our national friends and co-workers as well.

- January 11, 2005, John Relyea passed away. PBT's world was shaken, and we still mourn the loss of ourfriend and co-worker. We continue to pray for Marsha, Heather, Brigette, and Bobby. (In fact, Brigette arrivestoday from the USA to join her friends and classmates at "Encounter", a spiritual retreat for the Ukarumpa HighSchool students, being held here in Madang. More about that later.)

- Two weeks after John died, long time SIL missionary, and friend of ours, Bobby Ahrens, wife of GeneAhrens, passed away suddenly due to complications from an infection in an abscessed tooth. SIL's (or WycliffeBible Translators) world was rocked and shaken, and many of us grieved with Gene as he lost his mate of manyyears. Bobby and Gene have been here around 20 years.

- Two days ago. MAF (Missionary Aviation Fellowship) had a plane go down, and both pilots were killed. PBThas a very close relationship with MAF, as they, along with SIL aviation, are the primary aviation agencies we usein getting our translators to and from their villages. Richard West left behind a wife, Cherie, and 2 children,Larissa and Marcus. Chris Hansen left behind a wife Janice, and children Rochelle, Jessica, and Simeon. WhileI personally did not know either one of the pilots, Idid know Cherie West, as she assisted PBT in January,helping in a VBS for our kids while our annual general meeting was taking place. She was there for us whenJohn died, and did a great job of handling the kids. She was a close friend of PBT missionary Lynn Muir, who ismarried to MAF pilot Leon Muir.

In a period of less than two months. 4 deaths in 3 closelv knit mission organizations. Words cannot express howwe feel, but, as MAF Australia CEO, Bill Harding says," We are devastated by this news, but we know that God issovereign and that His Holy Spirit will sustain." The Holy Spirit will indeed sustain, but we continually askourselves why. Mike Sweeney, fellow PBT missionary, expressed how much this has impacted us in stating,"Within 6 weeks, 3 closely connected missions have lost people on the field. We have never experienced anythinglike it during our time in Papua New Guinea." Indeed we haven't. And yet, we all realize that, just because weserve the Lord in whatever capacity, there is no guarantee of long life, freedom from death or suffering, oranything like that...John the Baptist, and Steven come to mind...read Matthew 14 and Acts 7 for their stories.

Ifthat were not enough, Monday of this week, friend and missionary with Australian Church of Christ mission,Frank Sanders, had gone out to the bush to visit some of the churches in the area. He was attacked with bushknives and robbed. He had to get stitches in his arms and legs, but is doing OK now. He is now back in Madang.

All of this is to say that we here stand in need of your prayers daily. In addition to the deaths, we have had severerainstorms, which has ruined cash crops for many of our national friends. One man, from Uria, where Todd Owenworks, said that he has never seen anything like this...ever. Roads have been washed away, land slides areabundant. Cindy and I were delayed in Ukarumpa for 3 days due to the roads being covered up with landslides.Just yesterday we returned, and saw the result of the rains that have fallen. We have never, in the few years wehave been traveling that road, seen anything like it.

Please keep all of us in your prayers. Trials and testing seem to be abundant these days. Pray that the trials andtesting produce in us the endurance we need to carry out the tasks that God has called us to do.

I mentioned earlier our high school kids, and the spiritual retreat they are involved in, even as Iwrite. It is called"Encounter" and is designed for our kids to have a time of fellowship with one another, a time of instruction and


In Page 2 of 2•J9

also times of worship and praise, but most of all, a timeto Encounter God,and allow him to work intheir lives.Pray for this weekend, that itwill truly be a timeof Encounter. Pray especiallyfor those kidswho have not giventheir lives to the Lord, and there are several who have not. Pray that the Spiritof God surrounds them with hislove and mercy.

Cindy and I had a good week (although longer than expected)at Ukarumpa with the kids. Theyall seems to bedoing well, and enjoying themselves. Keren Isadjusting great, David is doing well, and Michael keeps saying howmuch he is looking forward to Johnson Bible College! Thank you so much for your prayers on their behalf.

Pray for me, as I have been praying and reading the last 3 weeks or so concerning where we as a group (PBT)are headed in the future, and the shape our work here will take over the next several years. Pray that God givesus a vision of where He wants us to go in terms of ministry and work here. Pray for our recruits and those waitingto come. Pray especially for Mark and Nancy Anne Wilt, who are ready to come, but are in the process of raisingsupport...pray that the churches they seek out will respond to the need...We need them here! Pray for LauraRoberts, who is coming to teach at Ukarumpa Primary School for us. She is waiting on her visa, and it is takingan extraordinarily long time in coming. We need her here!

"And pray in the Spirit on all occasions, with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert andalways keep on praying for all the saints. Pray also for me, that whenever I open my mouth, words may be givenme so that I will fearlessly make known the mystery of the gospel, for which I am an ambassador in chains. Praythat I may declare it fearlessly, as I should." Ephesians 6:18-20.

Please keep us in your prayers. Right now we are in desperate need. But most of all, pray that we all maydeclare the gospel fearlessly! This is why we are here...this is the task to which God has called us.

We love you and miss you,

Jim (for all of us)

P.S. Sorry for the length and somewhat disjointed nature of this email. Iwanted to get it out to you all as fast as Icould.

Printed for Georgia Sharpe <gsharpe(gmissionservices.org> 2/24/2005

Jim Cindy Davis, 08:05 PM 6/11/2005 +1000, Davis Family Update...June, 2005 Page 1of3

From: "Jim &Cindy Davis" <[email protected]>To: <[email protected]>Subj^: Davis Family Tjpdata^i;^ne, 2005Date!-Satr4d.Jun 2005 20:05:5§>^000X-Mailer: Micr^osoft Outlook IMO, Build 9.0.2416 (9.0.2911.0)Importance: NormalX-Virus-Scan: CleanX-Dubious-Status: No, hits=-3.057 required=5tests=MAIL_FROM_NO_SIZE,NO_DOTJN_HELO.SPF_SOURCE_OK,ALL_TRUSTED,AWL,lserver=zapote.global.net.pg

Dear Friends,

Greetings onceagain. Imust apologize for being so tardy with ourlatest update. Cindy and Ihave beenatUkarumpa (where the kids are in boarding school) since May 20th, and have not been abletocommunicate as wewould like from there. For starters, all phone services in and out of Ukarumpa, plus all internet and emailfacilities, were down for 8 days. We were without communication at all forthat period of time. Then, as we hadour laptop computer with us, we did not have the correct address book to send outan update! In anycase letmegive you a rundown ofwhat is going on in our lives, plus one incredible story ofGod's providence and protection.

First the story. About 10 days ago, right aftercommunication lines were restored, I received an email from mygood friend JeffBrooks, who is the minister at First Baptist Church ofPigeon Forge, TN. Hewas writing to us topray and pray hard for Frank Solarzano, a mutual pastorfriend ofours who lives and works in Guatemala. Frankis an evangelist, and he and his family are dedicated servants of Jesus Christ. On May 29 or 30 (I am not surewhich) Frankwas returning homewith hiswife early one morning, after he had been helping her at the bakerywhere she works to supplement their income. As they were entering their house, armed men put guns to theirheads, and told them to go inside. Once inside, they tied everyone up, ransacked the house, stole their moneyand car, and worse, kidnapped their youngest daughter, whose name is Sweet Ruth. She is 23, has beenworking at training Sunday School teachers forchurches in rural Guatemala. For 10 days she was held captive,with a ransom of $200,000.00. The kidnappers phoned Frank soon after the abduction with their demands.Naturally, Frankturned to the Lord and the churchforsupport and prayers. Fordays, the kidnapperswould call,demanding the money, saying that ifitwas not paid. Sweet Ruth's death would be theirfault. Idon't know ifyoucan imaginewhat Frank and his family were going through during that time, but Frank heldfirm and did what thepolice and negotiators told him to do, all the while praying, trusting God, and keeping us informed. He claimedScripture promises, and his faith was a true testament to his belief in the sovereignty and grace ofGod. In themeantime. Sweet Ruth was witnessing the whole time to her captors! Finally, the police (Frank says that onlyGod could have shown them this place, itwas so remote) found out where they were holding Ruth...it was deep ina cave up in the mountains about an hourfrom Frank's home. Ruth continued to witness to them,and one ofthem was close to making a decision,when he said that he would not believe. She wrote instructions downforhim about how to gain his salvation. As I understand it, around this time, when he finally said no to Ruth's offer ofthe gospel, the police moved in. The man Ruth was witnessing to charged the police and was killed. Also,another kidnapperwas killed, but Sweet Ruthwas recovered unharmed, and with no ransom being paid! Shewas In captivity for about 10 or 11 days. Like Isay, Icannot begin to imagine what Frankand his family wentthrough. I know itwas the most traumatic thing they have ever endured (and before Frank was a Christian, hewas a body guard for the president of Guatemala!). I have met Frankat a missions conference, and enjoyedgetting to know him. Right now Frankand his family are on theirway to the US to recuperate and be ministeredto bytheir Christian brothersand sisters. One thing that Frankis fearful for is that he might no longer be able toministeras he has in the past, for fear of being a target. Please praise God for intervening in this horriblecrisis,and pray that God will grant peace and direction to Frank and his wife.

Thankfully, we have not had to endure anything quite so traumatic! Our hearts and prayers have been with Frankover the last few days. We have been, however, quite Involved with things at Ukarumpa. First was the banquet,inwhich we (the parents of the Jrs. and Srs.) have a week to decorate the Teen Center (Basketball gym andmeeting house for the high school students). This years theme was India. Cindy, of course, was conscripted topaint, and paintshe did. She did a beautiful tigerand forest scene, which, of course, was the talkof the banquet.If you want pictures, let me know. She dida beautiful job. Ialso have photosof the boys all decked out, ifyouare interested. I helped work on a Himalayan mountain slide, where we turned a stair case into a very fast andslippery slide. Itworked very well if I may say so myself. There were 3 of us that worked on it, and one was an


Jim Cindy Davis, 08:05 PM 6/11 /2005 +1000, Davis Family Update...June, 2005 Page 2of3

engineer and got us going in the right direction. Actually, my job was to stand around, hold a screwdriver and/ordrill, and put screws where they told me to! In any case, it all worked out, and the kids thoroughly enjoyedthemselves. David and Michael both looked very handsome in their suits, and David's date was beautiful.

Sports day was the next weekend, and this was David's year to shine. He came first in the high jump, clearing1.75 meters (which is a shade under 5'9") He came 3rd in the 200 meter, and had 3 2nd place finishes in variousrelays (4 x100,4 x200, and the medley -100,100, 200,400.) Keren was the big surprise, as shedidn't thinkshereally like sports, and ended up with a first, a second, a third, and a fourth place ribbon. After it was all over,she said she couldn't wait until next year! Michael did very well in his events, although he didn't get any ribbons.Heis more ofa basketball and golf nut! He is playing some really good golf these days, and Iam going to have towatch out!

Finals are thisweek, and theyhave been tough, especially for Michael. But what has been the toughestthing forall of us is the fact that Michael will be leaving us soon and going to college. It has been hard for both Cindy andme to thinkabout. The Ukarumpacenter had a halfday of prayer last Thursday, and prayed for all the Seniors.Each of the Seniors were asked to submit a prayer request, and Michael'swas simple...it said, "I am going to beawayfrom my parents for a long time." Talk aboutchoking us up. When we gathered with our kids to pray, Icouldn't even get the words out of my mouth. Please be in prayerus. Thiswill be a difficult time, and yet weknow that Michael will be in good hands from those at Johnson Bible College, and he will do well there. (By theway, PBT has 5 graduating seniors this year!)

If youare interested, Michael actually graduates from high school on June 21, from the Ukarumpa InternationalHigh School. If you would liketo send a card or note of encouragement to him, please send it to:

Michael Davis

do Dean and Judy Davis1906 Bays Mountain DriveKnoxville.TN 37920

Michael starts college on August 21st.

I have also been conducting exit interviews for those of our members who are going on furlough or leaving thefield. It is hard saying goodbye to good friends, which seems to be the fate of most missionaries. We areconstantlysaying goodbye (and hello!) to someone. We did have a new arrival...Laura Roberts has arrived, andhas come to teach up at the Ukarumpa Primary School. She is a graduate of JBC, and is a welcome addition tothe team here.

Right now Iam in Madang (which is why Iam able to write to you all). I have made a quicktripdown, so thatfellow missionary, Todd Owen and Ican make a tripout to Tiap, which is where the Aruamu NewTestamentDedicationwill take place on July 2nd. Tiap is where John and Marsha Relyea worked for many years with theAruamu people. You may remember the Relyea family from January. John Relyea passed away from a heartattack, while the NT was at the printers. Itwas a sad and tragic day then, but now is a time for rejoicing. We wiiibe able to witness fruition of the many years of workJohn and Marsha did, along with their Aruamu co-translators,as the New Testament is presented to them in its entirety. Pray that the Word will not only be held in their hands,but be captured in their hearts as well. Todd and Iare going out Mondayto assess the road situation, take outsome of the New Testaments, and check on how things are going with them. Pray for us to have a good trip thereand back.

Finally, we do have some needs to share with you. There are two items of financial concern to us, and we wantyou to be praying for these, and ifyou can help, we would very much appreciate it. We know things are tightrightnow, so please pray about these. We have sent these needs to all of our supporting churches, and they haveresponded graciously, and now we want to share with you. Firstof all, you knowthat Michael will be returninghome to begin college. Atfirstwe were going to send Cindy back with him, to get him settled. As time got closer,Cindy was not ready to do that alone. So, both of us will returnto the States to put Michael intocollege, althoughat different times. Michael leaves the country July 9, and will attend an 11 day MK re-entry program, which isdesigned to help missionary kidswith their transition back to the States. This will be at Biola University near LA.Cindy will joinup with him on July 22nd, take him to see his grandparents inTexas, and then go on to Knoxville. Iwill stay behind,as Idid not want to be gone that long, and join them in mid-August. Together we will put him incollege, and return to the field. (If Ican get Cindy on the plane). Honestly speaking, we cannot afford this trip.


Jim Cindy Davis, 08:05 PM 6/11/2005 +1000, Davis Family Update...June, 2005 Page 3of3

But after praying and discussing...we feel that this is what the Lord would have usdo. If you can help with theseexpenses, we would begrateful. The tickets will cost (for all ofus) around $7300.00.

The nextitem ofconcern is our vehicle. We have been driving a little Ford Falcon in town, and itis just aboutbeatto death. It is a 1989, and is held together with chewing gum, duct tape, and Ithink some baling wire is inthere somewhere! (It isn't that bad, but it isgetting old.) Plus, it isa petrol (gasoline) engine, and those pricescontinue toclimb, as you all arewell aware. Our carseemstothink that there isan endless supply ofpetrol, andgoes through it like Ido diet cokes! We have decided to take the plunge and get usa new(er) 4wheel drivevehicle, which has a diesel engine (much cheaperthan petrol here). Wewill be able todrive back andforth toUkarumpa when need be, plus negotiate the everdeteriorating roads here in Madang much easier. Ihavealready ordered this vehicle, borrowing money from my retirement savings to pay for it. Ironically, it is going torun between $7300.00and $7700.00,depending on dutyand customs. If you can help us out with either of theseneeds, it would be appreciated! If you can help, justsend a check (made outto Pioneer Bible Translators) toPBT, P.O. Box 9533, Knoxville, Tenn.. 37940-0533, and include a note that says vehicle or travel for the Davisfamily. As Isaid, ourchurches (and individuals who are aware ofthe need) have responded graciously, and wehave raised about half of the money needed. Thank you.

Well, I have written too much. Iam sorry, but wanted to catch you up on our lives. We are constantly seekingGod, and his desires for us. So pray with us:

1) Praise for the release of Ruth Solarzano from the kidnappers. Continue to prayfor the Solarzanofamily, asthey recover from this ordeal.2) Pray for Michael as he graduates, and for us as we say goodbye to him. David and Keren are also strugglingwith this. They will be in school here when we take Michael back to the States. Pray also for himas he beginscollege, and seeks the direction the Lord wants him to travel in his life journey. Pray also for David and Michaelthis week as they take their final exams.3) Pray for the Aruamu New Testament Dedication. Satan does notwant this to take place. He does not wantGod's Word in the hands and hearts of people!4) Pray for Toddand me as we go to Tiapto assess the road, visit with the people there, etc. Pray for safety andgood weather.5) Pray for our furloughing members, and also members leaving the field. Pray especiallyfor Marsha Relyea,and her children. Heather, Brigette, and Bobby, as the dedication will bring on a whole new set of emotions, andalso as they say goodbye to a land where they have worked for over 20 years.6) Pray for our financial needs. The Lord has promised to take care of us, and He always has.

We love you all. I don't knowthat I have adequately conveyed that to you all, nor have Idone it enough. Ialsodon't know if I have adequately conveyed to you how much we depend upon you for strength andencouragement. We need you!! Right now is a pretty difficult time for us, and yet we know that we are neveralone, we are never without hope, and never without your prayers. Thank you.

Jim (for all of us)


Jim Cindy Davis, 07:33 AM 7/5/2005 +1000, Davis update Page 1 of2

From: "Jim & Cindy Davis" <[email protected]>To: "Jim & Cindy Davis" <[email protected]>Subipcf: Dovio-updateDatdsIue^Jul 20052Zr33:51 +1000X-MaiierT^/n^osoTTOuti^k IMO, Build 9.0.2416 (9.0.2911.0)Importance: NormalX-Virus-Scan: Clean

X-Dubious-Status: No, hits=-2.89 required=5tests=MAIL_FROM_NO_SIZE.NO_DOTJN_HELO,SPF_SOURCE_OK,ALL_TRUSTED.AWL,lserver=zapote.global.net.pg

Hi all.

Just a quick update on severai items. I promise not to be long winded! (sound likeany preachers you know??)In any case, I thought you would like to know how several of the events you have been praying about turned out,and have some items you can still be praying for.

First is the Aruamu New Testament dedication. It was a beautiful day, both in weather and in content. It wasexciting to watch the various language groups perform and see many decked out in traditional clothing, see thevarious dances and plays, etc. Marsha Relyea was also attired in traditional Aruamu celebration clothing, andpresented the completed New Testament to the Aruamu Chief. Here are her words,

7 had every range of emotions as I walked that very long pathway from the back of the audience to the front ofthe grandstand. I was thrilled—this Is the day we have worked toward for 2 decades! I was relieved—the day wasfinally here! I was exhausted—from utter hard work and lack of sleep these last few weeks. I was sad—I hadalways thought John wouldwalkthis path with me on DedicationDay. I was grateful—Godhas blessed thisministrywith an amazing team of Aruamu co-workers and PBT co-workers and with faithful Intercessors andsupporters. As I walked I could see that some of the Aruamu dancers had smiles on their faces, and some ofthem had tears ofjoy. I was walkingIn a slow, stately way, tryingto keep my composure. When I got to the frontnear the platform, Apem was waiting for me. When I lookingInto his face, I saw that tears were streaming downhis face. In a ceremonial way, Iplaced the New Testament In his hands. As he received It, I wept and I raised myhands high In utter Joy and thanksgiving to our AlmightyGod."

Itwas indeed a great day, filled with speeches, dances, laughing, crying. We went home exhausted, but content.Now the work continues...that work of the people and the Holy Spirit transposing the Word of God from paper toheart. Pray for themi

Just a note: Our family drove out a day early and stayed overnight in the village where we did our orientationvillageliving back in 1999. Itwas great seeing our old "was femili" (watch parents), who looked after us then andtook care of us. They were amazed at how the kids had grown. They had a big feast that night, with the wholevillage attending...it was great!

Michael has graduated! Thank you for all your prayers during that time. Sunday he mentioned something aboutwhat we were doing, and he said, as he has done often recently, "I can't believe I am leaving in less than aweek." I asked him if he was nervous about the trip home, and he said, no, not really, but he was nervous aboutstarting college. So pray for him. Pray for David also, as he is having to say good bye to most of his closefriends...they happen to be Seniors, and his close Junior friends are leaving also. He is pretty desolate right now!

Today we have a branch meeting concerning the vision and direction our group here in PBT is taking. We desireto be more productive in God's Kingdom...see more souls won, see our workbear fruit. Please pray for us toseek God's heart in this.

We have received our new vehicle. It is wonderful. It is a Toyota HiLux Surf...in the States I think they are soldas a Toyota Fore Runner, or something likethat. Butwe have enjoyed it immensely. We drove itout to thededication in it, and it performed wonderfully. Many many thanks to you who were able to help us out in gettingthis. Thank you also for helping us with our plane tickets home to put Michael in college. What a blessing you all


Jim Cind/bavis, 07:33 AM 7/5/2005 +1000, Davis update Page 2of2

are.

Here are some prayer and praise items for you to pray over. We covet and need your prayer covering.

- Praise for a wonderful day at the Aruamu NTdedication. Pray that the Word trulyreaches into every corner ofthat language group, and into the hearts and minds of the Aruamu people.- Praise for Michael graduating from High School.- Praise for the provision of our new vehicle.- Pray for Marsha Relyea and kids as they leave PNG and make their way back to the US. Pray for Marsha, asshe seeks the Lord's guidance as to where to go and what to do next. (Pray also for her and the 2007 NationalMissionary Convention...she will be the president of that convention)- Pray for Michael as he travels back to the USA. He leaves this Saturday (July 9th), overnights in Tokyo,attends an MK re-entry seminar, and then makes his way to JBC with his Mom. Michael will be traveling with ourgood friends, Mike and Linda Sweeney, whose son is also attending the seminar.- Pray for Cindy and me as we travel back a little later...Cindy leaves on the 20th of July, and I leave on the 11thof August...to put Michael in college.- Pray for David and Keren, remaining here while we are gone. Pray that they will be able to cope with ourabsence from the country for a while, and pray for them as they say goodbye to many friends.- Pray for our meeting, and pray for our group here, as we seek and discern God's plan for us.- Praise for our wonderful supporters and prayer partners...YouII Without you, we would be swimming upstreamwith one arm tied behind our back. You, through the power of the Holy Spirit, are our lifeline and ourencouragement. Thank you!

Jim, for all of us.

P.S. I don't usually do this, but have attached a photo of Cindy, Michael and me at graduation. It is a small file.

%'•'L•II

Michael, Mom, and Dad atgrad.jpg

Printed for Georgia Sharpe <gsharpe(§missionservices.org> 7/5/2005

Jim Cindy Davis, 05:46 AM 9/12/2005 +1000, Davis Family Update - Back in PNG Page 1of2

From: "Jim &Cindy Davis" <[email protected]>To: "Jim &Cindy Davis" <[email protected]>

Family IipHato - Back in PNG-fJafeTMon, 12 Sep 200505l^:B:£%+1000^Mnilrr^i^rnsoft nullouk IMCTBuiid 9.0.2416 (9.0.2911.0)Importance: NormalX-Virus-Scan: CleanX-Dubious-Status: No, hits=-0.226 required=5tests=MAIL_FROM_NO_SIZE,NO_DOTJN_HELO,SPF_SOURCE_OK,AWL,HTML_30_40,HTserver=zapote.global.net.pgX-MailHub-Apparently-To: <[email protected]>,<[email protected]>

Hi all,

Justa quick note to let all ofyou know Cindy and Imade it safely back to PNG. We arrived 3 days agoafter awhirlwind trip totheStates toget Michael settled in college. Of course, it was not easysaying goodbye, but weleft full ofconfidence that Michael isgoing to be justfine. Heloves Johnson, loves hisclasses, and has a goodsupport system surrounding him. He also has your thoughts and prayers, for which we arevery grateful. (You allwill be praying for him, won't you???) It was neat seeing him interact with his new friends at school, hear abouthisclasses, so we know and trust that he will be well caredfor. The Lord isfaithful, and knows exactly whatheneeds, and so far, has provided in marvelous ways. Onceagain, a big thank you to all ofyou who helpedfinancially so wecould both goand take him back. Oh yes, he really enjoyed and benefited from the MissionaryKid Re-entry seminar, held a Biola University back in July. That wasa blessing anda boost for him.

David and Keren did well being back in PNG without us. The both had down times and missed us (andwethem!). And next yearwegettodo this all over again. David graduates, and alsoplans toattend Johnson, atleast for the first couple ofyears, as Michael is doing. (I know, itdoesn'tseem possible that two young folks likeCindy and me will have two kids in college next year. Of course, every picture Ilook atofme reminds me, withthegray hair and all, ofhow old Iam getting. Plus thecreaking bones and achy joints serve to point outthefactalso.) Next year wewill home for a little bit longer, as we aretaking a short furlough (July - Dec), while both boysare in college. We will be living in Pigeon Forge again, in the home we bought lastyear. However, it may belonger depending on how Michael adjusts and how well David does. If we feel we need tostay longer for thesake of the kids, we will. We continueto seek God's guidance and direction forevery phase of our life, and askyou to join in that prayer with us.

Later today (right now it is 5:00 a.m. Monday morning...jet lag strikes again!), weleave to go up to Ukarumpa andsee David and Keren. We are excited to see them, and they to see us. We will stay there about a week, andthemall of us will return to Madang, where theywill enjoy a two week school break. We will drive up in our new(new tous,anyway) 4-wheel drive vehicle that many ofyou helped purchase! Again, a big thank you toall ofyouwho helped provide new wheels for us. Now pray that Iamableto sell the old one in a reasonable amount oftime.

When we return to Madang next week, Ihopeto get back into the swing ofthings here. Already, January is rightaround the corner, which means our Annual General Meeting take place. We have lots of work to do gettingready for that, especially since the meeting last year wascutshort duetoJohn Relyea's untimely death. Bepraying for us in that, and be praying for our group here. Many folks are on furlough, and some of our new folksare waiting on visas to be processed. Please pray they are processed quickly.

Thank you once again for your love and prayers. Iwill write again later this month, with more update news aboutour life and work here, and more prayer itemsfor you to bring to the Lord. Please keep Michael inyour prayers,(and his Mom and Dad), as he begins this new journey in life. Pray for this year here for us, that we continuallyseek outwhat plans God has for us. Pray for David and Keren. Pray for ourco-workers. Mostof all, though, givepraise to the Almighty for his unfailing carefor us, for the lessons he continually teaches, andfor his amazinglove, demonstrated in the person of Jesus Christ.

With love and gratitude.


chriST0plT8f^l85^— Page I of2

From: "Jim & Cindy Davis" <[email protected]>To: "Jim & Cindy Davis" <[email protected]>Subject-; Davis EaojiiyJJgdateDefe: Mon, 14 Nov 2005^:17:00 +1000X-Maller: MIcrbson uuiio'ok IMG, Build 9.0.2416 (9.0.2911.0)Importance: NormalX-Virus-Scan: Clean

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Greetings all,

Once again we write you with apologiesfor being so tardy. It has been a wild few monthssince you have heardfrom us. Idon't want to take up much of your time, but do want to let you knowhowwe are doing and howyoucan prayfor us. We have just returned from a quick trip up to Ukarumpa to see Kerenand David, and to helpKeren celebrate her 14th birthday. Itdoesn't seem possible that this little girl of ours is growing up. She, of all ourkids, loves and lives life to the fullest. Itwas fun beingwith her and seeing her with her friends. She had fun, andso did we! David is doing well, and truthfully, we hated saying goodbye to them both. Both are really ready to bedone with boarding school, and quite frankly, so are we. Idon't know howour parents did it, but itgets harder andhardersaying goodbye. Wewill go upagain toward the end ofthis term, Cindy going up abouta week before me,and we will help them study for finals, and be together as a family once again.

Since we last wrote, we have been overseas (I may have written a short update, letting you knowwe returnedsafely), squared Michael away in college, I(Jim) have had malaria twice...once before we wentto the States, andonce again afterwe returned. Thatwas notfun. But now our health is all good, and we are doing as well as wehave in a long time. Right nowwe continue to ask Him to help us be completely dependent upon Him. We wouldappreciate your prayers in that also.

Work has been going well. Cindy is working a little more inthe office, handling logistics for the branch,which isquitea task at times! Arranging flights, accommodations, vehicles, etc, as well as working on visa paper work,has her hopping on the days she is in the office. And, for the first time in a long while, she has been able to paintand producesome artwork. Ofcourse, Ifeel Iam married to one ofthe best artistsaround, but Imay be a bitbiased. We produced some note cards featuring her artwork, and so far, they have been very popular.

I have been working on several things. Thispast week, DaveRobinson, who served as director while we were onfurlough, and I, along with some otherco-workers, made the trip out to Garati village, where David and SharranPryor served for so many years. Wewentto turn their village house backoverto the people...under the church'ssupervision and for use bythe literacy program. It was a goodtrip, but, as Davewrites, kind of sad. Here iswhatDave wrote of the trip,

'We gave a house away today. It wasn't ours, and nobody was living in it. Asa matteroffact the Jungle had justabout taken itover. The grass was several feet tall around it, and vines were starting to grow up the sides, andinto the space underneath the house. Still, itwas kind of a sad occasion, because I remember being in the housewhen people were living in it, and itwas full of life and activity. Butthat's whywe gave itaway today, so itcan beused again, and know the sounds ofactivity, and again fulfill it's purpose for being built in the first place, though ina little different way.The house I'm talking about was built more than 25 years ago by David and Sharran Pryor, PBT'sfirst translatorsin Papua New Guinea. Aplot of land was takenfrom the jungle in Garati village, and dedicated to be used tohouse a family that would work to translate the New Testament into the Kire language. Along the way kidswereraised and bom and raised, a church was encouraged and strengthened, a literacy program was started so thatwhen the New Testament was finished people would be able to read it. And in the course of time, the NewTestament was finished, and the Dedication held, and the translators went back to America.And now they knowthat they won't soon return.So PBTofficially gave theirhouse awaytoday. Wegave it backto the peopleofGarati, to fulfill it'spurpose for


Christopher powell, '̂LGi j^ORIZOMS Page 2of2

being built. We gave itto the church, and to the literacy program, so the house can once again be used to assistin bring God's Word to life in the heartsofthe Kire people. It was kind ofa sad occasion, because itmarks theend of an era, but still -1 feel pretty good about it."

I, too, remember being in the house when itwas full of life and laughter. David's and Sharran's village was thefirst village we visited afterarriving in PNG. Wewerewelcomed with openarms bythe Pryors and by the folks ofGarati. So prayfor the people there, that the Word of God will truly impactand change their lives, and that God'sWord - His Son - will change lives and reside there with them.

I have also been preaching at a little Church of Christ here in Madangwhile the missionary there is on furlough. Acouple of weeks ago we showed up forchurch, and Iwas asked to preach...not an uncommon request here. So Ihurriedly prepared something during the song service, and after the service, they asked me to continue for awhile. So, I agreed, knowing that preaching in pidgin was not my cup of tea. Anyway, Iwould reallyappreciateyour prayers in that. I understand in a whole new way what Jesus was saying to Paul in 2nd Corinthians, whenHe said, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness."

Michael seems to be doing really really good. He is enjoying his time at JSC, and each time we talk to him, he isgoing or doing something new. This week he plans to attend the National MissionaryConvention in Atlanta. Ifyou happen to see him, give him a big hug, tell him we love him and miss him. This week, while at Ukarumpawith the kids, Iwas thinking about Christmas, and it struck me that this would be the first Christmas without him.That was hard! But I know that day comes for all of us with children, but, somehow, that thought doesn't make itany easier. Anyway pray for all of us.

In all of these things that go on in our lives, you all are never far from our thoughts. We so enjoy your emails, andyour words of encouragement. What a joy itwill be when we will all be together, all of us together with ourLord...no more separation, no more tears, no more sadness. Until that time, though, we press on, fueled by thehope that is within us, and also emboldened and empowered by the HolySpirit, accompanied by you all throughyour thoughts and prayers. Thank you for being our strength! Thank you for being our encouragement.

When you pray, pray for David and Keren. Pray that the rest of the school year would go quickly, and they wouldfind joy in their surroundings.Pray for us here in our work. Pray that God will use us, and direct us in all the He wants to lead us in.Pray for Michael, and for his school work. Pray that he will not fall through the cracks, and that, with hisuniqueness, will find the direction God has for him.Pray for the folks of the Kire language group. Pray that the Word of God will truly take root in their lives.Pray, as Paul prayed for the Colossians, that, "God would fill them (and us) with the knowledge of his will throughall spiritual wisdom and understanding" and that they (and us) "livea lifeworthy of the Lord and may please Himin everyway..." Colossians 1:9,10a.Pray for me as I preach, that God would speak through me, and use my weakness for his glory.

Most of all, though, give thanks to him for his wonderful giftof lifeand love in the person of Jesus! Praise Godtogether with us for in Him we are made complete!

With great love for you all,

Jim for all of us.


Jim Cindy Davis, 08:04 PM 11/23/2005 +1000, HappyThanksgiving Page 1 of 1

From: "Jim & Cindy Davis" <[email protected]>To: "Jim & Cindy Davis" <[email protected]>Subjeetrl Idppy ThafttefliyjngDate: Wed, 23 Nov200520!^:43 +1000X-MaiiernViicrosotl OutlookIMO, Build 9.0.2416 (9.0.2911.0)Importance: NormalX-Virus-Scan: Clean

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Hi Friends,We justwanted to write to aii ofyou and wish you a very Happy Thanksgiving. Cindy and Ihavea special reasonto be thankful-.today (November 23rd) we celebrated 21 yearsof marriage. It doesn'tseem possible, and yethere we are. The Lord was indeed gracious to me when he provided me with the woman i loveand adore. AndCindy wentso faras to say that the earth literally moved beneath herfeet when she thought abouthaving beenmarried to me for 21 years! No, really...! am not kidding!! Read on...

Theearth did move early this morning, as we had an earthquake shake the house. If you happened to read aboutit or catch it on the internet, or are interested in these kinds of things, the epicenter was about 35 miles due westof Madang, and was a 6.0 on the Richter scale, itwoke us upoutofa deep sleep, and wenton and on for whatseemed like hours....which in actual fact was about a minute. We have had tremors and shakes before, butnothing like this. Although it only lasted for about a minute anda half, it was enough to knock ourpower linesdown...we were without power from 1:00this morning til about 6:00thisevening. We wondered if the powercompany would get us hooked back uptoday, but worried for nothing, as they did get the job done. Thank youPNG Power!

Cindy and Iare taking the Thanksgiving holidays as an excusetoget away together for the weekend to spendtime together talking, praying, laughing, dreaming...and we are looking forward to it. Thereis a little resort closeto Madang, but farenough away to get away from it all. Pray for us as we spendsometime together listening toGod, to each other, and praythat we come away refreshed, renewed, and with a rested outlook on life here.

We are grateful today for many things...celebrating ourlives together, having power restored after an excitingevening, ourupcoming time together...we are thankful for our kids, and that Michael gets tospend Thanksgivingwith his aunt and uncle in Franklin, Tennessee...we are thankful for our families back home who love us and carefor us...for our co-workers here who are dedicated to the task that God has called them to...we also are thankful(although wedon't show it often enough in positive ways!) for the difficult times which causeus just todependupon God when ourstrength is not enough. And in aii ofthis weare thankful for you all...faithful and truefriendsof the Kingdom. You are a blessing.

On a sadder note, we lost a fellow co-worker in the Gospel yesterday. We learned that John Mark Pembertonpassed away ofa heart attack while flying back toCincinnati from California, i met and spent time with John Markand hiswife Leannawhen Iwas a single missionary in Zambia, and truly enjoyed theircompany and fellowship.Pray for the Pemberton family. John Mark and his wife, Leanna, had three daughters, theyoungest ofwhom was16. /Mthough he will be missed on this earth, heaven will welcome him home!

Once again, have a great day of thanksgiving...every day!

Jim


JimCindy Davis, 11:11 PM 12/20/2005 +1000, Merry Christmas Page 1of 1

From: "Jim & Cindy Davis" <[email protected]>To: "Jim & Cindy Davis" <[email protected]>Siihjprt_Mnrry Christma^l^^^Date: 20 Dec20052^1:57 +1000X-Mailer: Microsoft Outlook IMO, Build 9.0.2416 (9.0.2911.0)Importance: NormalX-Virus-Scan: CleanX-Dubious-Status: No, hits=-0.156 required=5tests=MAIL_FROM_NO_SIZE,NO_DOT_IN_HELO,SPF_SOURCE_OK,AWL,HTML_30_40,HTserver=zapote.global.net.pgX-SpamScore: 4.1X-MailHub-Apparently-To: [email protected],[email protected]

Cindy and Iwantwish allofyou a veryMerry Christmas...Christ centered, and honoring to Him. We have read ofthe attemptsto de-emphasIze Christ, and even take Him out altogether. In the Christmas season. So, ourgreeting Issimple...Merry Christmas. Christ belongs notonly at the center ofthe season, but also In the center ofour hearts, our lives, as everything we are, we owe to Himand what He has done for us.

Tomorrow we leave forthe village of YImnalem, where our co-workers and good friends, Steve and RhondaHayward live, along with theirchildren, Jason and Carissa. David and Jason have been best buds foras long aswe have been here, as have Keren and Carissa. And Steve and Rhonda are very close to our hearts and dearfriends. So we lookforward to this time we joy and anticipation. We will be gone for a week, visiting, laughing,celebrating and loving each other In the Lord. We are thankful foropportunities like these, to fellowship with ourco-workers, see their ministry up close and personal, and visit with their PNG friends and co-workers In thevillage.

Upon our return, I (Jim) will continue In preparations for ourAnnual General Meeting, which will be the third weekof January. This Is when all of us on the field get together to pray, plan, discuss, vote, argue, discuss some more,concerning ourwork here, ourvision, and whatGodwants us to be Involved In. Praythat the meeting will be aproductive one, one which focuses on building up the Kingdom. Pray forthe Relyeafamily, now In the States, asthiswill mark the one year anniversary ofJohn's death. Prayalso for Heather Relyea, as laterthis month she willbe getting married! Prayfor Marsha, as I know that thoughts ofJohn will never be far from herduring thistime ofjoy for Heather.

PrayforDavid and Keren, as they will be getting readyto enter the second halfoftheirSeniorand Freshmanyearof high school. Pray that they will have a good semester, and pray especially for David, as he will be sayinggoodbye to PNG for the foreseeable future. Prayfor us also as we get ready for furlough afterDavid graduates.Prayfor Michael too, as he will be with hisgrandparents (my Mom and Dad) during Christmas, and then travels toTexas to see Cindy's Mom and Dad. (and prayfor usil Wewill miss Michael this Christmas, our first without him)

We love you all and miss you very much,

Jim


Davis Jim Cindy 2005 PapuaNewGuinea

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