NIU SHootings

As most of you know, before we did, that there was a shooting at the college I (luke) graduated from in 2004. Not only did I graduate from NIU but it is located in the town where I spend much of my childhood. I have attended many classes in that lecture hall in Cole and can picture exacltly what must have transpired. Elise and I are asking each of you to be in prayer for our community in Sycamore/DeKalb, Illinois in light of these recent events. We have many individuals in our church that in someway shape or form are connected to the NIU community. Some of our friends work in buildings near to where this tragic event transpired. We would like to petition specific prayer for the Batiste and Graham family who are family friends that work on the NIU campus with Christian ministries. Elise and I participated with the Batistes (who are campus directors for Campus Crusade for Christ at NIU) during my time at the school there. Brent and Stephanie Batiste have served for years and no doubt are face with a huge opportunity to witness for Christ in the upcoming weeks and months ahead. Byron and Michelle Graham (campus leaders for Intervarsity at NIU) also will need prayer as they find ways to bring the healing power of Jesus Christ to many needy student on the NIU campus. We would also you to pray for our dear friend Drew Wells who, as a paramedic, was one of the first responders to the scene. Most importantly pray that this would be a catalyst for revival at NIU and in the DeKalb County area. Elise and I were commenting at how some people were concerned for our safety coming to Zambia and yet a tradegy like this happens in a place where I have spent substantial amounts of time. These recent events show us that our lives are finite no matter where we are. We, as Christians, should look at each day as our last and be feverishly looking for opportunities to share the hope and assurance we have in Christ with those who don't. Our lives are but mists and vapors that will soon pass, let's make sure we make the most of them for His Kingdom's sake. To our EVFREE family back home grasp this opportunity to proclaim His goodness! Don't wait for witnessing opportunities to come your way, create them! as you stand in line at Wal-Mart, eat dinner at Tom & Jerry's, or simply talk to the teller at the bank drive through. You all have something the world (especially DeKalb County) needs right now!! Thanks to all of you for your continued prayer for our family. To those who are wondering about our new arrival Elise will go under the knife (he,he) this coming Wed 20th around 6 AM (your time)CST. We would treasure your prayers and will look forward to sharing the Lord's provision in this matter. We love you all dearly and (though not physically) are with you in His Spirit. God bless and PRESS ON & INTO HIM!!!!