The Klints in Romania

Jesus once said, "I must preach the good news of the kingdom of God to the other towns as well;"

Last week, a village paster asked me to preach in his church about 30 minutes out. I had prepared an Easter resurrection message from John 20 and 21 for our sister churches in Sibiu and Cisnadie. I had been looking forward to this occasion for it would be my first occasion to preach and worship with this congregation. But, Saturday, I received a call informing me that a church member had just lost her 17 year old son after suffering injuries from a tragic car accident. Could I reflect hope somehow in my message even through the experience of loss?

   My heart hurt for this mom who was in mourning. I could illustrate the pain and sorrow Mary Magdalene felt  in the death of a loved one where John records that "Mary stood weeping…"(v. 11).  I could describe the effects of grief on our lives in ways the disciples were frozen in their room from fear (v.19). Or how Thomas was at such a point of loss, that he could not believe the news from his most trusted friends, which would dramatically turn his grief into the greatest joy of his earthly life (v. 25).

    The response of Jesus in each of these contacts has a kingdom focus at heart. To Mary he says go tell my brothers, to the disciples on that first evening of the resurrection day, he anchors their mind on being sent ones. To Thomas who had just physically touched his risen "Lord and God", he reminds him about the hope of ones who haven't seen the Christ. He initially had charged Peter to be a "fisher of men" and now gently  reminds him of his pastoral ministry (feed my sheep)and even how his death as a martyr  would "glorify God" (21:19). We may find these testimonies comforting, but for sure they were "written that you may believe … and find life in his name." (20:31). 

    While standing with this mom next to her son's lifeless body, I read from Psalms 23 and prayed for the life changing peace that Christ offered to Mary Magdalen and the disciples at their lowest moment. Please pray with us and the small congregation of believers, that God would show his glory to this family and village. 

By His grace,

Bob

Update!

Bob Klint was appointed as President of European Baptist Fellowship due to the failing health of Brother Merton.

Update!

I feel do to my health, I must resign the presidency of EBF.  I have for 3 years now been in a downward spiral health wise and cannot devote the energies necessary to accomplish the work properly.  I would like to continue on the board but feel the presidency needs someone who can devote more energy than I have to accomplish it properly.

 

God Bless You

Brother Merton

2013 Conference

 

EBF Update

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

We would like to announce a change of address for the European Baptist Fellowship effective January 1, 2012 will be European Baptist Fellowship, P.O. Box 501545, Indianapolis, IN 46250.  Please make note of this change.  Thank you for your prayers and your support of the work of the missionaries of the European Baptist Fellowship.

In The Name of Our Savior,

Brother Merton Bobo

The EBF conference for 2011 was held at Sawyer Highlands Church in Sawyer, Michigan, by the invitation of Brother Bob Klint, one of the most recent members of the EBF board, who is an active member of this church. Our thanks goes out to the church, for the use of the church facilities; to Melissa Klint, for hosting dinner for the group and housing some of the group; and to Pastor Jeff Dryden for his support and encouragement.

The meeting started with morning Bible study led by Brother Fletchall. As always, it was a very encouraging time in the Word. Mark Walker then reported on his mission’s work in Germany and Romania through a power point presentation.

The fellowship continued over lunch at a local restaurant where mid-western cuisine was served.

After lunch, Robert Frye reported on his ministry in Romania and shared a short video of a visit with Matthew Walker and his family.

Next president of EBF, Merton

Bobo, shared a letter from Matthew Walker addressed to the mission board. Brother Merton Bobo, then shared with board his decision to no longer pursue France as his mission field. At this time, the EBF business meeting began. The women of the group headed upstairs for fellowship and prayer while the men stayed for the business meeting. It continued until dinner that evening, at the Klints.

Saturday morning began with the morning Bible study, once again led by Brother Fletchall.

The morning business meeting followed. It was decided that all EBF officers would remain in their current positions. Bob Klint was unanimously voted as the new Vice President.

The meeting adjourned before lunch.

Continuing to grow

Our newest member, Brother Bob Klint from Sawyer, Michigan, was accepted on April 30, 2009, pictured here with his wife, Melissa.