30 Years of Ministry for Word & Deed

This article was written by Corney Les and was published as the Foreword in the Summer 2024 issue of the Word & Deed magazine.

This year we are celebrating 30 years of ministry for Word & Deed. How time flies! Starting with one project in Guatemala, we have expanded and diversified into 18 countries with 55 ongoing projects and 30 one-time projects. Yet our mission, which is “to meet the spiritual and physical needs of people in the developing world in accordance with biblical principles for the glory of God” remains the same. Our primary focus remains the glory of God and it is rather astounding how the Lord has blessed this organization! Praise Him for all the work that is done and for the means to support our partners, but above all pray that His Word will bear fruit in the saving of many.

In recent years we have encountered increasing challenges in at least half of the countries where we help the poor and needy. Wars, violent tribal conflicts, gang warfare, and religious persecution seem to have grown exponentially. In addition to these serious issues that have put many people at risk, there are increased government controls and interference in the affairs of their citizens and mission organizations. There appears to be growing animosity, even hostility, toward Christians in many areas.

Jesus taught his people to rejoice in tribulation. We are taught some things about this joy. First, it comes from the Holy Spirit, not from our own efforts. “But the fruit of the Spirit is . . . joy” (Galatians 5:22). This joy also comes from belonging to the Kingdom of God. “For the kingdom of God is not eating and drinking, but righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit” (Romans 14:17). Lastly, this joy comes through faith, that is, through believing in God. “Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing” (Romans 15:13). As believers, we can cling to the joy that we have, knowing that it produces perseverance, character, and hope (Romans 5:3,4).

Our partners continue to serve the Lord in light of this joy and in the midst of many challenges. As you will read in the Summer issue of our magazine, violence and crime reigns in many places, and there seems to be no consequence to the criminals for their actions. Yet we clearly see the advance of the Gospel. Let us be encouraged and continue to pray for our brothers and sisters throughout the world. May God be glorified.

Corney Les is a board member of Word & Deed Canada and until recently served as Board Chairman. He attends the Heritage Reformed Church in Chilliwack, BC. 

Note: Due to security reasons, some of the articles in this issue have been intentionally removed.
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