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Steve Pester – Farmington, New Mexico …The Rocky Mountain Conference (RMC) had two new missionaries start their work in August. These missionaries will never take a vacation, never call in sick, and never get tired of sharing the good news of Jesus.

They stand tall day and night through the sun, wind, rain, snow, and cold. Their voices carry hope across the high desert, reaching people in Shiprock, Farmington, and nearby communities.

These missionaries are two radio towers.

On August 12 and 13, KJSS-LP 106.5 FM in Shiprock and KBFH-LP 105.7 FM in Farmington officially began broadcasting the message of Jesus Christ. KJSS-LP is connected with the Waterflow Seventh-day Adventist Church in Waterflow, New Mexico. KBFH-LP is located on the property of the Piñon Hills Seventh-day Adventist Church in Farmington, New Mexico.

Engineers from Adventist World Radio (AWR) traveled all the way from Maryland to finish the work on both stations. They made the final adjustments, and then both stations came alive on the air with the programming from the Diné Adventist Radio* Network (DAR).

One special thing about these two stations is that their coverage areas overlap. “A person can drive from Shiprock to Farmington and switch from one station to the other without losing the program,” remarked Steve Pester, DAR network manager. “It is like a gospel highway connecting communities with Jesus.”

He continued, “There is something else exciting happening. Members from both churches are already creating radio programs for DAR. They are using their own voices and stories to reach people in their communities.”

At the Waterflow Church, Cynthia Risk and Norman Hale have produced nearly sixty programs about The Great Controversy. They have been helping listeners understand the great story of God’s love and His plan to save us.

“Their newest project is based on the Arthur S. Maxwell Bible Stories. These stories help bring the Bible to life. Listeners love stories. and Cynthia and Norman are sharing stories that point people to Jesus,” commented Pester.

At the Piñon Hills Church, Tamara Peshlakai and her co-host, Kim Pearson, who joins her from Missouri, produce “Jesus Bee Hozho.” Their program focuses on living a healthy and whole life through Christ. They talk about faith, health, culture, and hope. Their goal is to meet people where they are and point them toward Jesus, the One who can bring healing and hope. This is more than radio, it is church members using their voices to share hope with their community.

The most exciting part of this story happened only days after the stations went on the air.

“Both stations received calls from new listeners,” shared Pester. “Some called asking for prayer, others asked for Bible studies. The gospel message is already reaching hearts. The seed has been planted and God is already working. These steel missionaries are already doing what they were built to do.”

Standing tall over Shiprock and Farmington, these towers are more than metal, cables, and antennas. They are beacons of hope, carrying the love of Jesus across the Navajo Nation. Every day, they will send out a message of hope. Anyone who turns on the radio can hear about a Savior who loves them, cares about them, and wants to be part of their lives.

Long after the engineers have gone home, these missionaries will still be standing. They will keep broadcasting. They will keep reaching. They will keep sharing the good news. Somewhere across the high desert, someone will turn on a radio and hear a message that could change their life.

Pester closed, “We are thankful to God for these two new missionaries and for the churches and people who are using them to reach their communities. Two towers. Two frequencies. One message. One Savior.”

* Dine Adventist Radio and La Vida Mission are supporting ministries of the Seventh-day Adventist Church but are not affiliated with the Rocky Mountain Conference of Seventh-day Adventists.

—Steve Pester is the Dine Adventist Radio network manager. Photos supplied.

Steve Nelson – Farmington, New Mexico … The Piñon Hills Seventh-day Adventist Church in Farmington, New Mexico, was pleased to participate in the 2026 San Juan County Fair that was held in Farmington, August 8-16.

“This year, we changed our focus and built a unique and meaningful display that featured a detailed model of the biblical sanctuary. It took a team of dedicated volunteers to design, construct and bring to life this incredible model. We were amazed that more than 400 people decided to tour our booth and explore the display to learn about the ancient sanctuary and its significance,” reflected Steve Nelson, lead pastor for Rocky Mountain Conference’s (RMC) Farmington District.

The booth provided an opportunity to introduce visitors to truths found in the Bible through a visual representation of the sanctuary given to Israel. Many were fascinated by the design, furnishings, and symbolism of the sanctuary, while others were surprised to discover how these ancient truths point to God’s plan of salvation and His desire to dwell among His people.

For many visitors, the display made the Bible come alive in a new way. “The visual presentation opened doors for conversations about Scripture, Jesus Christ, salvation, and the meaning of the sanctuary services. I personally witnessed profound changes in perspective as God’s Spirit touched the hearts and minds of people who were discovering—perhaps for the first time—that this ancient system of worship revealed God’s plan for His people, a plan that still speaks to us today,” remarked Nelson.

He continued, “We are grateful for every person who stopped by our booth and took the time to learn. Our prayer is that the seeds planted through this ministry will continue to grow and lead people to a deeper understanding of God’s Word and His love for humanity.”

—Pastor Steve Nelson is the lead pastor for the Farmington District of RMC churches. Photos supplied.

RMCNews – Montrose, Colorado … Continuing to serve as a spiritual gathering point for Adventist across the region, the 11^th annual Western Slope Camp Meeting was held at the Mountaintop Retreat outside of Montrose, Colorado, August 12-16. Here, a space is created for faith to be experienced beyond the sanctuary through worship, music, shared meals, and relationship-building activities.

Dr. Karl Haffner, vice president for Student Experience and Enrollment Management at Loma Linda University Health, served as this year’s featured speaker. His background as a pastor, author, speaker, and mission strategist has given him perspective on spiritual fatigue, purpose, and discipleship connecting to the camp meeting’s purpose of taking a break from the everyday to reconnect with God and one another.

When asked what he believed people most need when they step away from their normal routines at a gathering like this, Haffner remarked, “To connect with Jesus in a personal way, and that changes everything relative to purpose. The foundation of spiritual life is a relationship with Jesus—that everything is abiding in Christ and Christ abiding in us—and living in and in the presence of Christ. That is the most important principle of spiritual life.”

“I have to tell you, Dr. Karl Haffner—our main speaker—I love how he tells stories and the stories are from the Bible that we can relate to our own lives,” commented Eileen Field, attendee and deaconess from the Montrose Seventh-day Adventist Church. “One night’s story touched my heart so deeply I started to cry. It was so beautiful and so relatable.”

The camp meeting also included music service led by Wylie and Dawna Stevens of the Last Song Ministry duo and a health workshop by Fred Hardinge, DrPH, registered dietician, and the director of Montrose Church Health Ministries Committee. “I talked about some of the principles involved in assessing nutrition information in this social media age,” Hardinge commented.

“[Social media] has introduced a lot of confusion and frustration and a lot of misinformation. [People should be weary that] good science does not evolve from one individual or one study, and that, if it goes against the body of data, that’s another red flag. And that antidotal evidence does not constitute data. A novelty makes lots of noise, but science rarely makes much noise.”

Extra attention was placed this year on inviting and including all generations at the camp meeting with special kids programming and activities included a popsicle stick bridge build, arts and crafts, and more. All generations enjoyed painting classes led by Eliezer Roque-Cisneros, lead pastor of the Colorado Riffle District, daily puzzles, and free Christian literature tables.

Camp meeting activities were paused briefly for the 2026 Northwest Colorado Rocky Mountain Conference (RMC) Town Hall meeting. RMC president Dave VandeVere began with a discussion on conference-wide mission and vision and did an introduction to the preparations for the 2027 RMC Constituency Session.

Attendees also received an introduction to the new vice president for Administration Nathaniel Gamble and the new Ministerial director Sean Lee. The session was closed out with reports from the remaining department representatives.

“The churches in the Western Slope have always enjoyed getting together, and this is a perfect excuse to gather for a spiritually uplifting time,” reflected Roque-Cisneros. “It wouldn’t have been possible without the help of people who have poured their heart and soul into this ministry. And beyond simply attending another church event, the goal is that people have a chance to connect with Jesus in a way that’s different than their everyday life. The hope is that—as people go home—they will feel the value of getting together.”

—RMCNews. Photos by Liz Kirkland and Eileen Field.

Karrie Meyers – Highlands Ranch, Colorado … Mile High Academy (MHA) in Highlands Ranch, Colorado, opened its doors on August 18 to 255 students for the start of the 2026–2027 school year, with additional students currently finishing the admissions process.

Students and parents were especially excited to welcome back Mrs. Denae Yuros, a former MHA teacher who has returned to step into the role of vice principal for the 2026–2027 school year. Warm greetings of “Welcome back, Mrs. Yuros!” echoed throughout campus as families arrived.

“It is so good to be back at Mile High Academy,” said Yuros. “Walking through the doors this morning and seeing our students and families reminded me just how special this school community is. I’m eager to jump into this new role and support our staff, students, and families as we grow together this year.”

The morning started with all-call announcements followed by the first all-school chapel of the school year. Principal RD Gallant welcomed families back to campus, and students cheered loudly as the 2026-2027 teachers and staff were introduced.

Before moving into the worship portion of chapel, MHA recognized several sophomores for outstanding academic achievement through the national PreACT Rising Stars program. The program honors the nation’s top academic performers based on PreACT 8/9 Composite scores earned during their freshman year, distinguishing the top 3% as Distinguished Scholars, the top 4% to 10% as Rising Scholars, and the top 11% to 50% as Early Scholars. MHA celebrated four students who earned the Rising Scholar recognition and seven who earned Early Scholar status.

To set the spiritual tone for the year around MHA’s 2026–2027 school theme, “Made for More,” Chaplain and Upper School Bible Teacher Gerson Martinez spoke during chapel. He encouraged students that “the best decisions come from clear convictions” and to remember two key convictions: “God is Love and Jesus Saves.” Following chapel, students, staff, and parents participated in the school’s annual prayer walk, coming together to ask for God’s guidance and presence on campus throughout the year.

MHA remains deeply grateful for the ongoing guidance and support of the Rocky Mountain Conference (RMC). Dianne Harris, RMC’s director of Education, was on campus helping with the annual prayer walk and sharing in the morning’s excitement.

“There’s something special about the energy and possibility of the first day of school,” said Harris. “I’m thankful for the strong community at Mile High Academy and excited to support our students, educators, and families throughout the year. I pray that God continues to bless the school community with joy, wisdom, friendship, and a deeper walk with Jesus.”

With classes now underway, the Upper School looks forward to heading to Glacier View Ranch later this week, while Middle Schoolers prepare for their day trip to the lake next week. Meanwhile, the younger grades are happily settling into their classrooms for what promises to be a wonderful year ahead.

—Karrie Meyers is the Mile High Academy marketing and development coordinator. Photos supplied.

JESUS’ MODEL OF MINISTRY

Then He said to His disciples, “The harvest truly is plentiful, but the laborers are few. Therefore pray the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into His harvest” (Matthew 9:37-38, NKJV).

By Godfrey Miranda

Earlier this week, our dinner table was garnished with some of the best steamed broccoli I’ve ever tasted. And it came from our church garden! I don’t consider myself to be an expert farmer, so when my family and I heard about the start of the church garden, we were glad for the opportunity to grow our own produce alongside others who knew what they were doing. 

We’ve had limited gardening experience in the past … with varying levels of success. We’ve tried reading books and researching online for best practices, but there’s nothing quite like following the lead of someone who has done it all before. 

When it comes to harvesting souls for the kingdom, maybe you’ve had some experience in the past … also with varying levels of success. But if you’re looking for someone to emulate, there’s no better example than Jesus Himself. 

In Matthew 10, Jesus commissions the twelve disciples and sends them out as laborers into His harvest (vv. 1-5), but Matthew intentionally prefaces all that with a snapshot of Jesus’ own ministry at the end of chapter 9. In other words, when Jesus sends us out on mission, He first models for us what true soul-winning looks like.

BE AVAILABLE

Then Jesus went about all the cities and villages, teaching in their synagogues, preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing every sickness and every disease among the people (Matthew 9:35, NKJV).

Much could be said about Jesus’ mobility, especially in a culture where walking was the main mode of transportation. (Incredibly, some estimate that Jesus traversed nearly 3,100 miles on foot during His public ministry!) But what’s of note here in Matthew 9:35 is not just that Jesus roamed about the country, but that He moved on a mission. He wasn’t just traveling to sightsee; He went to cities and villages in order to make Himself available to others. 

Whether we travel afar or just go down the street to the nearest grocery store, we too can be available to others and let all our movements be mission-driven. The reality is that discipleship happens through daily interactions, but we often get so caught up with our to-do’s, routines, and responsibilities that we lose touch with the disciple-making potential of our daily interactions.  

Being available is about being open to having gospel impact in others’ lives as we go about our day to day lives. We may not see ourselves as teachers, preachers, or healers in obvious ways like Jesus was, but each of us can purposefully interact with others to influence them closer toward God’s truth, God’s kingdom, and God’s healing rather than farther from it.

BE ATTENTIVE

But when He saw the multitudes … (Matthew 9:36a).

The verb translated as “saw” can describe the physical sense of sight, but it can also point to the cognitive and even relational idea of understanding. Jesus may have seen multitudes, but He was actually attentive to individual stories, identities, and needs. 

In Matthew 9:2, Jesus may have seen a group bringing their paralytic friend to Him, but beyond their physical actions He “saw their faith.” He saw beyond what they were doing and could discern why they were doing it. In Matthew 9:9, we’re told that Jesus “saw a man named Matthew.” He didn’t gloss over this publican but gave him individual attention. 

Beyond his position, Jesus saw the person. And this is the kind of attentiveness He invites us to engage as well. We don’t have to operate on assumptions or stereotypes or surface-level judgments.  

As we make ourselves available to others, we can invest the energy to listen well and see the heart. Being attentive to individual stories, identities, and needs ensures that we connect with people in ways that are personally relevant to them and not just based on our own preferences or convenience.

BE MOVED WITH COMPASSION

But when He saw the multitudes, He was moved with compassion for them … (Matthew 9:36b).

In every instance the phrase “moved with compassion” is used to describe Jesus in the New Testament, it acts as a hinge between what Jesus sees and what Jesus does. It’s the bridge between Jesus’ perception and His subsequent action. Compassion literally moves Jesus to act on behalf of the needs He sees around Him.  

This aspect of Jesus’ ministry example calls us to check our hearts and examine what it is that truly moves us in ministering to others. When we make ourselves available and become attentive to the needs of others, we must be motivated by heartfelt compassion for the people to whom God leads us. 

Ministry absent of this compassion tends to serve ourselves more than others. We end up doing the right things for the wrong reasons. We may teach, preach, and heal, but without genuinely caring for the people we serve, we actually run the risk of becoming “sounding brass or a clanging cymbal” which actually amounts to “nothing” (1 Cor. 13:1-2). Instead, we ought to make sure that “the love of Christ compels us” (2 Cor. 5:14). In all our availability and attentiveness, let’s move toward action only from a heart that’s first moved with Christ’s compassion.

Friends, I believe the harvest truly is plentiful, and the Lord of the harvest wants to send us out as co-laborers with Him in making disciples prepared for His soon return. We may not all feel experienced, but Jesus is inviting us to follow His lead. 

Let’s be available and open to the opportunities to have eternal impact upon others in our daily interactions. Let’s be attentive to others’ hearts, willing to see who people really are and what they really long for. And in all our movement to meet those needs, let’s be moved with genuine compassion and care.

—Godfrey Miranda is lead pastor at Littleton Seventh-day Adventist Church. Photo by Markus Spiske of Unsplash. 

Jose R. Alarcón – Ward, Colorado … Around 40 members and friends of Aurora First Seventh-day Adventist Church in Aurora, Colorado, stepped away from the routines of everyday life and gathered for a memorable weekend retreat, August 7-9, at Glacier View Ranch (GVR), the Rocky Mountain Conference’s (RMC) beautiful camp nestled among the clouds at approximately 9,500 feet above sea level near Ward, Colorado.

“Surrounded by the majestic beauty of Colorado’s mountains,” shared Jose R. Alarcón, lead pastor at Aurora First Church, “our group experienced the Word of God as participants studied Scripture, reflected on God’s goodness, prayed together, and strengthened their relationship with Christ. “

Miquela Luna, one of the guests, observed, “This was my first retreat. I did not know what to expect. I really want to know the Bible, but I’ve gotten so much more as I’ve received care and knowledge. During a mountain hike, I stood at the top with the breeze blowing, listening to two members sing praises to God. I will never forget this experience.”

The retreat was about more than Bible study; it was also about fellowship. Members shared meals, conversations, laughter, stories, and experiences. Children and adults played games together, creating moments of joy and camaraderie. Families had opportunities to spend quality time together, away from schedules, technology, work, and the many demands competing for our attention.

Friendships were strengthened, new relationships were formed, and the church family became more closely connected. Head elder Boima Sonii, Sr., shared, “The Aurora First Family Retreat was a memorable experience for my family. Aside from the genuine spiritual fellowship, it brought both members and non-members closer in many ways. We ate together, experienced nature together, played fun games, and above all, we worshiped together.”

The natural setting of Glacier View Ranch added another dimension to the experience. The mountain environment provided opportunities to appreciate God’s creation, breathe fresh mountain air, walk through beautiful surroundings, and reflect on the words of the psalmist: The heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament showed his handywork (Psalm 19:1).

For the Aurora First Church members, the weekend demonstrated that church ministry does not happen only inside a sanctuary. Retreats and camp experiences can be powerful opportunities for discipleship, relationship-building, spiritual renewal, and family strengthening.

“The experience also reminded us of the tremendous blessing we have here at the Rocky Mountain Conference,” remarked Alarcón. “Glacier View Ranch is more than a beautiful mountain retreat. It is a ministry resource that can serve churches, families, young people, and institutions throughout the Conference.”

“We therefore encourage other churches, schools, ministries, and Seventh-day Adventist institutions to consider including GVR in their ministry calendars. Come and experience the mountains, study God’s Word, build relationships, strengthen families, create memories, but most importantly, come to support a ministry that belongs to our conference family.”

Attendees of the retreat are grateful for the opportunity to have spent this special weekend at GVR. The people who attended returned with more than photographs and memories—they returned with renewed friendships, stronger families, deeper relationships, and a greater appreciation for God’s Word and His creation.

“Sometimes we need to come apart for a while so that we do not come apart,” reflected Alarcón. “Our GVR experience reminded us that when God’s people intentionally make time for Christ, community, creation, and family, the entire church becomes stronger. Hence, Glacier View Ranch is waiting. The mountains are calling. And our churches can be renewed together.”

—Jose R. Alarcón is lead pastor at Aurora First Seventh-day Adventist Church. Photos by Dina Alarcón.

Cindy Roldan – Highlands Ranch, Colorado … Mile High Academy (MHA) in Highlands Ranch, Colorado, welcomed two major convocations to campus this summer, giving the school an opportunity to connect with families, alumni, and the wider community. The gatherings were also the first major events R.D. Gallant hosted at MHA as the new principal, alongside Cindy Roldan, director of Student Services and Registrar.

On June 27, MHA hosted the Indonesian Convocation, welcoming approximately 650 people for worship, fellowship, and community. MHA hosted an informational table where Gallant and Roldan connected with families interested in learning more about the school.

Alumni parents Natalia and Julia were among those encouraging families to stop by.

“Natalia and Julia kept sending parents our way, encouraging them to learn more about sending their children to MHA. Seeing our alumni families advocate for the school was incredibly meaningful.”

The gathering also included a special first: attendees stayed to share a meal together on the MHA field, extending the fellowship beyond the day’s program.

For alumni, being back on campus made the event even more meaningful. Alumnus Brody Koloay shared, “We loved that it was at MHA because we already missed you guys.”

On August 8, MHA hosted the Hispanic Convocation, welcoming approximately 500 people. With mental health as an important focus of the event, Gallant had the opportunity to participate in a Q&A about education, while he and Roldan also connected with families and alumni at the MHA table.

One of those connections was with a new family who had recently moved to the area. They were excited to discover MHA at the convocation and connect with the school as they considered enrolling their child. It was a meaningful example of how hosting these gatherings can create new relationships with families in the community.

Together, the two gatherings highlighted MHA as more than a place of learning. They provided opportunities to welcome new families, reconnect with alumni, and strengthen relationships within the communities MHA serves.

—Cindy Roland is Mile High Academy director of Student Services. Photos by Cindy Roland.

Emily Roque Cisneros – Grand Junction, Colorado … The Grand Junction Lights Pathfinder Club kicked off a powerful new initiative by assembling 54 lunch bags for neighbors experiencing homelessness, July 5. Following their assembly, Grand Valley Eagles Adventurers club director Millie Higgins delivered these bags directly to the Joseph Center*—a vital local daytime shelter—where they were immediately distributed to those in need.

This successful kickoff is the start of a new ongoing year-round program. Collection boxes were placed in the foyers of the Grand Junction, Fruita, and Palisade Seventh-day Adventist Churches in Western Colorado in June and will remain, collecting items throughout the year.

Every month, students of Intermountain Adventist Academy and the local Pathfinders and Adventurers clubs will gather to assemble the lunch bags in rotating groups.

Because these lunches are distributed at a daytime drop-in center, all items are highly practical for individuals who may not have access to kitchens. Collected items include crackers, protein drinks, energy bars, packages of nuts, chapstick, kleenex, disinfectant wipes, and bandaids. To add a personal touch of comfort and hope, every single bag also includes handwritten, custom cards made by the kids.

“I feel very strongly that the Holy Spirit is leading us in this ministry,” said Higgins. “We are so incredibly blessed to be a part of this work God has given us to do, and we are repaid tenfold in joy for any effort we put into it!”

She believes this project can easily bless other communities across the Rocky Mountain Conference.

If you are a club leader, pastor, or member interested in learning how to implement a similar service project in your own local club, she would love to chat with you. Please feel free to reach out to Millie Higgins, lead director of the Grand Valley Eagle Adventurers, at 970-778-5087 or via email at [email protected]

Together we can be the hands and feet of Jesus!

* The Joseph Center is not affiliated with the Seventh-day Adventist Church nor the Rocky Mountain Conference of Seventh-day Adventists.

—Emily Roque Cisneros is the Palisade Seventh-day Adventist Church communication secretary. Photo by Millie Higgins.

RMCNews – Ward, Colorado … More than 90 Pathfinder club members and teens, along with over 80 staff and adult leaders representing over 12 clubs, gathered at Glacier View Ranch in Ward, Colorado, July 30–August 2, for the 2026 Rocky Mountain Conference (RMC) Pathfinder Camporee. Centered on the theme “Follow Jesus,” the weekend built on last year’s theme, “Know Jesus,” encouraging young people to move from just knowing Christ to actively following Him.

The camporee provided a mix of worship, activities, inspections, and evening programs designed to strengthen connections, build practical skills, and develop leadership. Featured speaker Pastor Ben Orian, lead pastor of Atholton Seventh-day Adventist Church in Columbia, Maryland, inspired attendees throughout the weekend.

For Ruby, a teen leader with the Casper Pathfinder Club, the Pathfinder Club Ministry has been more than an activity: “I really like the culture. It’s obvious that the goal is to learn more about Jesus and get to know Jesus. Sometimes it’s not as evident because of where different people are on their own journeys, but I’m glad to be able to see growth in certain areas now as a leader.”

Friday’s activities were a highlight for many attendees, offering opportunities to try archery, axe and tomahawk throwing, disc golf, mountain biking, rock climbing, and more. Beyond the excitement, these activities gave Pathfinder cub members opportunities to practice teamwork, perseverance, responsibility, and skills they can carry with them beyond the camporee.

“[Being a Pathfinder], I get to learn more and more about God and how to follow him,” commented Sharmilla, Aurora First Pathfinder Club member. “My favorite thing about Camporee is probably the activities. You are not just reading the Bible, but you also get to experience stuff.”

Sabbath brought a special focus to faith and service. Following worship, Pathfinder teams made encouragement cards to be distributed to others, learned how to create a devotional, participated in a Scripture walk, and took part in other activities designed to connect practical ministry with their growing relationship with Jesus.

David Hopkins, RMC Pathfinder coordinator led an activity on how to create a devotional. “This year theme is Follow Jesus and to follow Jesus on a consistent lifetime basis. We chose this honor of Adventure for Christ, which is a 6-to-12-month long honor. One of the requirements of that is sharing a devotional every week for the duration of the honor. Most people don’t know how to create a devotional, and so that’s what we’re spending time here today learning how to do this. These are skills for tomorrow, not just for the moment.”

Throughout the weekend, the camporee offered a reminder of what makes Pathfinders special: young people learning, leading, serving, worshiping, and simply enjoying time together in community. As they continue to know Jesus and follow Jesus, Pathfinders are developing skills and relationships that can help shape their faith for years to come.

“Seeing our RMC pathfinders connecting with each other and joyfully participating in the activities, worships, and time in nature during camporee was a blessing you had to have experienced to fully appreciate,” remarked Brent Learned, RMC Club Ministries Director.

—Interviews conducted by Liz Kirkland, RMC Communication director. Initial article draft curated by ChatGPT based on interviews with additions, revisions, and editing by Liz Kirkland. Photos from video screen captures by Ulises Velasquez and by Liz Kirkland.

On the first day of the first month he began his journey from Babylon, and on the first day of the fifth month he came to Jerusalem, according to the good hand of his God upon him. For Ezra had prepared his heart to seek the Law of the Lord, and to do it, and to teach statutes and ordinances in Israel (Ezra 7:9-10, NKJV).

Godfrey Miranda – Littleton, Colorado … With Mission Summit 2026 about two months away, it’s time to move into a mode of more intentional preparation. Many of us have already cleared our calendars and figured out transportation to make sure we’re logistically prepared, but is there more we can do to ensure we’re spiritually prepared for Mission Summit? 

This may surprise you, but as I’ve been reviewing the story of Ezra in the Old Testament, I believe his experience has something to teach us about what we can do to spiritually prepare for the Mission Summit weekend we’ve been anticipating. 

Granted, Ezra may not have been preparing for a church conference, but we can definitely resonate with his hope of returning to the Promised Land and his commitment to rebuilding God’s people to fulfill their divinely appointed purpose. Our contexts may be different, but our mission hopes are similar. 

So what cues can we take from Ezra’s experience to ensure that “the good hand of [our] God” (Ezra 7:9) is upon us too in preparation for Mission Summit?

START WITH HEART

For Ezra had prepared his heart … (Ezra 7:10a, NKJV).

Ezra’s journey of rebuilding God’s people to fulfill God’s purpose began at the heart level. Sure there were requests granted by the king of Persia (Ezra 7:6), but in addition to the collection of external resources, Ezra focused on the internal inventory of his heart. 

The term used here for “prepared” communicates the idea of fitting something for use. In the context of the sanctuary services and priestly roles that Ezra’s ancestry was fully familiar with, it was often the sacrifices themselves that needed to be prepared through close examination for blemishes or anything that would disqualify them for use. In this light, heart preparation has less to do with identifying what strengths we bring to the table and more to do with humbly discerning our own areas of weakness that we need to surrender to Jesus. 

Before we begin to dream about the great things we can accomplish for God at Mission Summit, let’s take time confessing our need for the great things God has already accomplished for us at Calvary. Before we attempt to dutifully fulfill the mission of God, let’s revive habits of daily receiving the mercies of God—searching our hearts for those attitudes, ambitions, and even addictions that keep us from being living sacrifices (Romans 12:1).

SEEK GOD’S WORD

For Ezra had prepared his heart to seek the Law of the Lord … (Ezra 7:10b, NKJV).

Apparently, heart preparation isn’t just about removing what doesn’t belong but also intentionally focusing on that which is worth our greatest attention and energy: God’s Word, the revelation of God’s will in His law. As we follow Ezra’s example then, part of our preparation for Mission Summit should be to tune our ears to hear God’s Word. We don’t have to wait until we arrive that first weekend of October to hear what God wants to reveal to us about His will and directions for our churches. We can spend time each day right now seeking God’s will for our churches, ministries, and communities.  

Whether you already have a daily rhythm of being still with God’s Word or want to establish a new habit, pray that God would wake you up earlier than normal each day to have unhurried time seeking the voice of the living God in the Bible. Maybe it’s slowly walking through one of the four Gospels or the stories of the early church in Acts. 

Whatever portion of Scripture He leads you to, let each day between now and October begin with filling your mind with God’s Word, praising Him for the picture of who He is, and surrendering to the counsel and instruction He reveals to you personally. As we seek His will in His Word individually, our hearts will be primed to discern God’s will about His mission collectively.

PRAY TO DO AND SHARE

For Ezra had prepared his heart to seek the Law of the Lord, and to do it, and to teach statutes and ordinances in Israel (Ezra 7:10c, NKJV).

I love that Ezra sought God’s Word not just for good ideas but for a transformed life altogether. He resolved to do himself what God revealed, to put whatever divine instruction he received into daily practice. And on top of all that, Ezra was committed to teaching to others what God had shown him and empowered him to practically apply. 

The blessing Ezra sought was not only for himself but for others. This is a powerful reminder that Mission Summit isn’t supposed to be a time when we’re just inspired with great ideas. It’s a time to let God live out His Word in us AND share His call with others through us. With this in mind, we can pray this simple prayer: “Lord, make me a doer of Your Word and a sharer of it too!”  

As we prepare for Mission Summit, let’s pray for a willingness to actively participate in moving the kingdom forward right where we are, AND pray for specific people with whom we can share our experience. There may be key leaders or close friends in our local congregations who aren’t able to attend Mission Summit, but we can pray that God would empower us to be influencers in our community both by how we live and what we share.  

Friends, do you want the experience of Ezra to be your experience too? It’s my prayer that each of us and our churches will be assured that God’s good hand is upon us all as we come together at this year’s Mission Summit. So until then, let’s search our hearts and surrender all to Jesus, let’s daily seek His Word, and let’s pray that His Word would do a good work in us AND in others through us.

—Godfrey Miranda is lead pastor at Littleton Seventh-day Adventist Church.