Not Again

Marta hugged and kissed his sweating and tear-tracked face. Finally, he calmed down and lay panting.

“Marta, you’ll have to hold him again,” said Reese.

“You can’t be serious.” Marta said incredulously.

“It didn’t set.” Dr. Reese shook his head grimly. “We’ll have to try again.”

Marta looked down at the boy, whose brow was covered in sweat. He seemed to know what was going on and nodded his consent. He grabbed the padded sides of the table as if he could channel his pain into the table and down to the floor.

Once again the doctor gave a nod to prepare everyone, grunted, and pulled.

Digul strained against Marta and Benji, raised his head, then released the familiar scream. It was choked off before it could build up, as the pain proved too great. Digul’s eyes rolled back in his head, and Marta eased him back down to the table.

“All right, I think that did it. Congratulations, team,” said Reese.

“Shouldn’t we revive him?” asked Marta.

“Not at all, I think it is the perfect time to put on his cast. While he is out we can wrap it without any protest,” Dr. Reese explained while gathering plaster and bandages.

Jeffrey W. Bennett, ISP is an author of non-fiction books, novels and periodicals.

Take Care of Tucker; Won't You?

Marta was touched. She blinked back the tears as the impact of his words slammed into her like a huge wave. She could only stop and hold him in gratitude.

They ascended the hill to the village. Several people waited at the entrance of the hamlet. Some were walking back from the nearby stream with fresh water for cleaning wounds. They greeted Tucker and Marta by name, but she never got used to their fingerless waves or toothless smiles. Marta wondered where they got their encouragement.

Maybe it was because they were not forgotten, she thought. Despite living in austere conditions, their home villages still visited and brought food, and professionals offered support and comfort. Faith seemed to thrive in a place of much decay.

The ground around the village was beaten down to hard earth. Constant use had worn away any grass. What survived grew in less frequented areas bordering huts. Small green patches symbolized the spirit still thriving in a place of eventual death.

At the entrance to Kilea’s hut, Tucker hesitated, afraid of what he would find. All of the changes were for the worse, as Tucker saw his mother wasting away physically. Yet, her mind remained alert.

Kilea noticed their shadows and sat up on her cot.

“Who is there?” she asked.

They had to go in now and Tucker did so after Marta gave his hand a reassuring squeeze.

“It is Marta and me. Just lie back. I am coming to you,” Tucker replied.

“It is wonderful for you to come and visit an old sick woman,” Kilea said.

Even with blotchy skin and her hair thin and gray, she looked beautiful. Though naturally tiny, she looked fail and small in her cot. Marta had heard the stories of when Kilea was younger, before the sickness. Of how she carried heavy loads and butchered the meat. Even through the decay Marta could still see her strength and determination.

“You know I wouldn’t miss a chance to visit. And I was honored when Tucker asked me to come with him,” Marta said, continuing in the local dialect.

“I asked my boy to bring you this time. I missed you, but I wanted to talk to you about something.”

Kilea took her son’s hand and asked him to leave her and Marta alone for a few minutes. He smiled, and reluctantly left the hut. Marta noticed it hurt Kilea to send her son off.

“I hear an airplane flying overhead; that should keep him busy for a while,” said Marta.

“He loves his giant birds, doesn’t he?” Kilea asked.

“He does. That’s all he ever talks about.” Marta agreed.

“It makes me sad that I can’t share exciting things with him. What kind of mother can’t share in her child’s life?” Kilea asked.

“But Tucker knows your enthusiasm and interest. He comes here willingly sharing of his adventures. He wouldn’t do that unless he knew you cared and were genuinely interested,” said Marta.

“You are so sweet, my girl. Listen, listen closely. I want you understand my wishes.” Kilea waited until she was sure she had Marta’s full attention. “I want you to take care of Tucker when I go, be his new mother.”

“I... I could never replace you,” Marta said.

“I’m not asking you to. I know he respects you and listens to you, and I know you respect me and will keep my spirit alive for him. I know that I will not be forgotten after I go,” Kilea tried to reassure Marta.

“What about his other relations in Tarampura?” Marta asked.

“They are well meaning, but can’t give my son the life he needs. He will always be the lesser of all children and family members. You know my boy, the center of attention, curious, and quick to learn.”

“Yes, he is everything you say.” Marta sniffled and wiped off tears.

“The old ways are not for him. He has learned your ways; he will not survive very well without you. I know this. I want you to care for him, take him to your world when you decide to leave.”

Marta was shocked. She had no idea Kilea was so observant. She had noticed all the changes. “Then you are not disappointed in what has happened to Tucker?”

“Tucker is special. He has an adventurer in him, and the invisible walls of the village would not hold him in. His future is in you, Marta. Please promise me you will respect my wishes,” said Kilea.

“Kilea, it is a strange request, one that will not please the elders of the village. But I love Tucker as my own. For years I have taught him to read and write in my language, and he has learned about experiences in my country, from books and my stories. I will do as you say. I will raise your son,” said Marta.

Kilea enjoyed another rare moment of happiness.

Remember, 100% of all royalties will be applied to Jeff's mission trip to Asia. Jeffrey W. Bennett, ISP is the owner of Red Bike Publishing. Jeff is an accomplished writer of non-fiction books, novels and periodicals. He also owns Red bike Publishing. Published books include: "Get Rich in a Niche-Insider's Guide to Self Publishing in a Specialized Industry" and "Commitment-A Novel". Jeff is an expert in security and has written many security books including: "Insider's Guide to Security Clearances" and "DoD Security Clearances and Contracts Guidebook". See Red Bike Publishing for print copies of: Army Leadership The Ranger Handbook The Army Physical Readiness Manual Drill and Ceremonies The ITAR The NISPOM

Antivenom

An hour later John circled Tarampura. Once again, no visible obstacles prevented his landing. He noticed a lone figure running toward his parking area and knew it would be Tucker. I hope I’m not too late, he thought.

“Is he still alive?” John asked.

“He lives. He very sick and Marta look sick too,” said Tucker

John shot Tucker a confused look as he cinched his bag on his shoulder and trotted to the village. One look at Marta answered John’s question. She did look sick, sick with worry. He noticed her puffy eyes and a flush face transformed to relief and thanksgiving upon seeing him.

“Did you get it?” Marta’s smile was apprehensive until John nodded.

“Here, hope it helps.” John handed her the glass vial.

John watched Marta go to work. She glanced at Mewpa as if requesting permission and consequently received a nod. The patient looked exhausted. John hadn’t seen him seize since returning, but knew he was in bad shape.

Marta fumbled with the medication and all eyes watched expectantly for her medicine to heal.

“All we can do now is wait,” Marta said, rising to her feet.

“Has he improved?” John asked.

“His fits have slowed, but I’m not sure whether or not that means anything. It was a long wait without you,” Marta said.

Mewpa and others carried the patient off the path, and John started to follow.

Remember, 100% of all royalties will be applied to Jeff's mission trip to Asia. Jeffrey W. Bennett, ISP is the owner of Red Bike Publishing. Jeff is an accomplished writer of non-fiction books, novels and periodicals. He also owns Red bike Publishing. Published books include: "Get Rich in a Niche-Insider's Guide to Self Publishing in a Specialized Industry" and "Commitment-A Novel". Jeff is an expert in security and has written many security books including: "Insider's Guide to Security Clearances" and "DoD Security Clearances and Contracts Guidebook". See Red Bike Publishing for print copies of: Army Leadership The Ranger Handbook The Army Physical Readiness Manual Drill and Ceremonies The ITAR The NISPOM

Got My Very Own Plane

     Having his own plane and route for six months now, John was confident he knew every mile and every person along the way. He knew the wants and needs of the missionaries he supported and did his best to satisfy them. He flew some of the fortunate citizens of each village, but mostly ended up flying small livestock for barter. Usually the villagers paid him with food gifts, souvenirs, but more often than not, smiles. He reflected on the myriad compliments as he walked to the hangar where his beautiful plane was almost completely reassembled.

     “Good afternoon, John, what brings you by?” Pete Brown asked as he wiped the grease from his stained hands. He had spent most of the morning giving John’s plane its required service.

     “How are you? You’ve been working pretty hard since we towed the plane in last evening,” said John.

     “Don’t be fooled. I’ve been working hard, and playing. You know the old saying?”

     “We all need to make sure we get our share of fun around here,” John said.

     “Actually, I let the engine cool down overnight so I could get right on it this morning.

I’m about to wrap it up. Wanna help?”

     “You do pretty quick work.” John said admiringly. “I thought the engine would still be torn down, parts everywhere. But I see you almost have it all put back together.”

     “This is one of my favorites. Yep, this is my baby and I try to keep her up. She’s been good to you, hasn’t she?” Pete asked, searching for a compliment.

     “I can’t complain.” John noted how the mechanic would claim the plane as his own, but he remembered the sense of pride he felt while a helicopter mechanic before becoming an Army aviator. “She climbs flawlessly and takes max power without a sputter. All pilots should be so lucky.”

     “Thanks, that means a lot.”

Remember, 100% of all royalties will be applied to Jeff's mission trip to Asia. Jeffrey W. Bennett, ISP is the owner of Red Bike Publishing. Jeff is an accomplished writer of non-fiction books, novels and periodicals. He also owns Red bike Publishing. Published books include: "Get Rich in a Niche-Insider's Guide to Self Publishing in a Specialized Industry" and "Commitment-A Novel". Jeff is an expert in security and has written many security books including: "Insider's Guide to Security Clearances" and "DoD Security Clearances and Contracts Guidebook". See Red Bike Publishing for print copies of: Army Leadership The Ranger Handbook The Army Physical Readiness Manual Drill and Ceremonies The ITAR The NISPOM

How Did You Find Marta?

Once again, Rachel, you’ve outdone yourself,” John said a week later.

“It was a delicious dinner, sweetheart. My compliments,” Steve said.

“Thanks guys, does that mean you’ll clean up?” Rachel asked.

“After a dinner like that, you can have anything you want.” Steve winked.

“I just wish I had more time to cook like this. The airstrip keeps me busy,” said Rachel.

“I would rather hear your lovely voice over the radio. It is much more welcoming than Jason’s,” Steve said.

“Thanks for the vote of confidence and the understanding. I like helping out there and with anything you fly boys might need. But, John, you might want to knock off the wisecracks about Jason, especially since he and Sandy are going to be here any minute,” Rachel warned.

John took the warning well. He felt Rachel and Steve could ask him anything and he would do it. With their growing friendship, he felt comfortable in their home, and he didn’t want to offend. He looked around the old building the Millicans called home. Rachel had decorated very attentively. The cinder block house matched his dorm room as simple wood and wicker design. Wonderful crafts and stencils adorned the walls. Bible verses and country scenes were embroidered in cross stitch and mounted in picture frames, while photos from home occupied other spaces.

John had been touched beyond words when Steve presented him with a nice cross stitch of a plane flying through clouds and the caption “...they shall mount up with wings as eagles. Isaiah 40:31.” Rachel had made it for two reasons. The first, upon John rescuing her man and himself when the plane went down, and the second when he was assigned to his route.

“So, are you telling me that your culinary experience was better tonight, than it was... say... the other day in Marta’s village?” Rachel asked.

“Oh, I see how you are,” John glanced playfully from the corner of his eyes. “Steve must’ve had a good laugh telling the story so you both could gang up on me. But that’s all right, see if I tell you anything again,” John said, punching his cowering buddy in the arm.

“Did you or did you not enjoy the eye of newt or boiled goat’s bladder?” Rachel teased.

“Well, it wasn’t that bad, honey,” Steve interjected. “Just a few bugs and spiders is all I heard.”

“You two are way off base; it was just a few harmless grubs.” John could hardly get the word grubs out.

“How did you find Marta?” Rachel asked.

“Did you have to ask that?” Steve interrupted.

“Tell us. You’re amongst friends. I mean, an enchanting woman living amongst primitive people, good looking, independent, and single. Probably not a bad gamble to bet you may have been the teeniest bit impressed.”

“Yes, you can say that,” John admitted.

“Oh, we’re just teasing you. Marta is a great friend of ours. In fact, she is as much a part of our family as we consider you to be. She is a very intriguing person” Rachel said.

“If it’s all the same, I don’t want to talk about it. A relationship I mean,” said John.

“Yeah, right,” Steve replied. He and Rachel could tell by John’s reaction to the mere mention of Marta’s name that there was some unspoken chemistry at work.

Remember, 100% of all royalties will be applied to Jeff's mission trip to Asia. Jeffrey W. Bennett, ISP is the owner of Red Bike Publishing. Jeff is an accomplished writer of non-fiction books, novels and periodicals. He also owns Red bike Publishing. Published books include: "Get Rich in a Niche-Insider's Guide to Self Publishing in a Specialized Industry" and "Commitment-A Novel". Jeff is an expert in security and has written many security books including: "Insider's Guide to Security Clearances" and "DoD Security Clearances and Contracts Guidebook". See Red Bike Publishing for print copies of: Army Leadership The Ranger Handbook The Army Physical Readiness Manual Drill and Ceremonies The ITAR The NISPOM

I Can't Wait

     To the southwest, the mountain range covered the retreating sun, leaving behind a tell-tale eerie pink and blue. Still a few hours before sunset, the village was in the shadow of the mighty Maoke Mountains. As if cued by a legendary director, the entire village came suddenly to life with shouts of triumph and laughter, as they buzzed excitedly around the hunting party.

      “Wow, what got them on the warpath?” John asked.

      “Sounds like the hunting party is back. Come on, let’s see what they bagged,” Marta replied.

     John laughed at her choice of wording and took up a quick stride matching her. As they neared, John saw one of the party hopping around with the ugliest bird he had ever seen slung across his shoulders.

The bird had the longest legs, save for the ostriches he saw in zoos and on Wild Kingdom. Instead of feathers, it sported long fine hairs. Blue and red adorned its neck, reminding John of the bright colors of a baboon

     “THAT’S disgusting!” John exclaimed wide eyed.

     “THAT’S dinner,” Marta said.

     “I’m not eating it, if that’s what you think,” John replied.

“     I’m recalling our conversation about being courteous and non-offensive, is what I think.”

     “You are a tough one, Marta Springer.”

     “It’s not like you have to eat the whole thing. There’s probably only enough for a taste. I recommend you at least have the courtesy to try,” Marta said.

     “What is it?”

     “That is the Cassowary, they call it... hmm, I guess the best translation is ugly stilt bird,” Marta said.

     “I’d say. But look, I can relate to those wild piglets they are showing off,” said John.

     “You are in for a real treat fireside tonight-chockfull of adventurous hunting stories,” Marta said.

     “I can’t wait.”

Remember, 100% of all royalties will be applied to Jeff's mission trip to Asia. Jeffrey W. Bennett, ISP is the owner of Red Bike Publishing. Jeff is an accomplished writer of non-fiction books, novels and periodicals. He also owns Red bike Publishing. Published books include: "Get Rich in a Niche-Insider's Guide to Self Publishing in a Specialized Industry" and "Commitment-A Novel". Jeff is an expert in security and has written many security books including: "Insider's Guide to Security Clearances" and "DoD Security Clearances and Contracts Guidebook". See Red Bike Publishing for print copies of: Army Leadership The Ranger Handbook The Army Physical Readiness Manual Drill and Ceremonies The ITAR The NISPOM

But at what Cost?

“Here comes Tucker,” Marta greeted.

“What happens, Mrs. Springer and Mr. Braddham?” Tucker said, strutting in his usual happy way. He was the type who liked to learn.

"‘What’s happening,’ Tucker,” she corrected.

“Yes, what is happening?” he said, smiling broadly.

“Do me a favor and call me John, okay?”

“Okeedokee, John. Do you take me flying?”

“Someday I will, when I have the plane?” John said.

“When is someday? I hear about it always?” Tucker asked.

“Someday is very soon. In fact, the first time that I fly here to visit, I will take you for a ride. How does that sound?” John asked.

“It sounds like bzzzzzzzz!” Tucker replied with his arms stretched like wings as he ran around imitating an airplane.

“I think my question was lost on him.”

“He is my best English student. Still, I can’t help feeling guilty,” Marta said.

“Guilty? I think you’re doing an excellent job with him – in fact, with everyone. This village loves you,” John replied.

“They have more or less adopted me, but maybe to their detriment. Tucker’s father is dead, and his mother is dying of leprosy. She has been for years, and she doesn’t have much longer. He has accepted me as a guardian, but I have to face the fact that I will leave here, and what about him?”

“I am sure he will be taken care of,” said John

“But it goes beyond me leaving him. I have ‘Americanized’ him. He is no longer just another simple Dani, living a simple life. You see how he dresses. He almost always speaks English and he has accepted living my way of life. Actually, by just living here, I have altered everyone’s outlook. Even those villagers who refuse Christian teachings are indirectly affected by the lives of those who haven’t. Their culture has irreversibly been altered, and possibly lost,” Marta replied.

“It can’t be that bad. People still are carrying on traditions and customs,” John said.

“A foreigner is learning their language, and now beginning to translate Bible verses. There is an airstrip in the middle of an almost prehistoric culture. They are using stone axes, and until two years ago, had never seen an airplane. They rely on modern means of transportation to conduct business. How can they ever return to their way of life? What will Tucker do when I leave?”

“I don’t know. But when you and Raymond decided to come, you did so because God put it on your hearts. Do you think he is going to let this be destructive?” John said.

“Let’s just say I never thought of the consequences. But you are right. God did put me here and great things are happening because of Him. I didn’t mean to make you think otherwise. I worry about these things, you know? It weighs heavily on me.”

Remember, 100% of all royalties will be applied to Jeff's mission trip to Asia. Jeffrey W. Bennett, ISP is the owner of Red Bike Publishing. Jeff is an accomplished writer of non-fiction books, novels and periodicals. He also owns Red bike Publishing. Published books include: "Get Rich in a Niche-Insider's Guide to Self Publishing in a Specialized Industry" and "Commitment-A Novel". Jeff is an expert in security and has written many security books including: "Insider's Guide to Security Clearances" and "DoD Security Clearances and Contracts Guidebook". See Red Bike Publishing for print copies of: Army Leadership The Ranger Handbook The Army Physical Readiness Manual Drill and Ceremonies The ITAR The NISPOM

Accepted into the Fold

John and Steve unloaded mail and a package of supplies. John noticed Marta immediately. Red hair cascading past her shoulders, cotton skirt, and khaki shirt seemed out of place. He could tell she had a unique and special relationship with the Dani people. They looked up at her and smiled, as if to share her joy when the plane arrived.

And she’s beautiful; the voice in his head told him.

He had to subdue that voice, because there was no chance for a relationship. But the voice still spoke to him, silently, seductively.

“This is going to be a hard battle,” he replied a little too loudly.

“What was that?” Steve asked.

“Oh, nothing,” he replied. “Is that Marta Springer, by the way?”

“Sure is. Help me with the supplies, and I’ll introduce you.”

Marta ran up to help. “I was so worried about you when your plane went down. I’m so glad you made it out of there.”

“Besides replacing a window and recovering from a fever, I’d say everything worked out just fine,” said Steve.

“I take it this is John?” she asked.

“That’s right, John Braddham, pleased to meet you,” he said, taking her offered hand. Her grip was tight and sincere, yet her hands were soft.

He was amazed at her emotional and mental strength that helped her endure all the years under the extreme circumstances he had only for a short time experienced. He doubted his fortitude or whatever he might consider a driving force to keep him committed. The incident of the forced landing nearly sent him home packing. Even so, he decided to stay, blaming his resolve to be an airline pilot. I’m committed to something. But is it enough to keep me here?

“Marta, this guy is incredible! He can handle an airplane like a

P.O.W. veteran. In fact, he has already been accepted full-fledged into the program. We’re just getting him familiar with his route,” said Steve.

“Already?” Marta exaggerated her surprise. “Don’t you usually train pilots longer?”

“Between losing pilots and convincing Jason that John is ready, I’m able to accelerate the program,” said Steve.

“I guess you are familiar with Jason’s thoroughness,” said John.

“Yes, I am,” she nodded. “He’s firm but fair. I know he rubs some the wrong way, but he is a wonderful person and a great leader. He just takes time to warm up to, but when you do, he makes a faithful friend. I can rely on him for anything.”

“Well, that’s what I keep hearing,” said John.

“John saved the day,” Steve interjected. “That night was enough to leave an impression on even the toughest of heroes. I’m convinced we wouldn’t have made it if it weren’t for him.”

“We were praying for you all night. As if the weather and landing weren’t dangerous enough, we heard you had to deal with the Yali. I’d love to hear what happened sometime,” Marta invited.

“You give me too much credit. But if you want to hear the scaled down version of the story...” John was about to finish when two strangers came into view.

Numah and a young man named Tucker walked up on either side of Marta. Numah tugged on Marta’s shirt.

“Oh, excuse me. John, I would like you to meet my good friends, Numah and Tucker,” said Marta.

John smiled at Marta’s two companions. The woman was small and dressed in a grass skirt and a dingy T-shirt with “Sunny” emblazoned in bold red letters. The twelve-year-old with her was a little shorter with tattered shorts and a dark, long sleeve shirt. Both were adorned with bone and leather jewelry. “I am glad to meet you both,” John said.

Numah giggled and wrapped her arms around John’s neck. The gesture caught John off guard and after a few steps of back peddling, he regained his balance. He stood a long second with his arms stretched wide before smiling and returning the hug. “You didn’t tell me they were so friendly.”

“We had the same cultural experience. It’s just something they don’t teach you in school,” Marta laughed.

More of the villagers approached and John almost bowled over in laughter. He guffawed audibly before Steve could suppress the rest of his reaction with a timely elbow jab to the ribs.

The circus of assorted characters crested the small hill and walked toward the amused newcomer. Most wore traditional dress consisting of grass skirt with no tops for the women and for the men, nothing, save the gourds of various shapes and sizes.

“John, please,” Steve begged.

“I’m sorry, but this is incredible. They are wearing squash. What does it all mean?” asked John.

“Nothing in particular. You’ll get used to it,” Marta said sternly. “C’mon, I’ll introduce you around.” Marta took the lead up the path to the village as Numah scampered up from behind.

“He right handsome man, Marta. You like?” Numah asked in her native tongue.

Marta tried to ignore her, continuing up the path in silence.

Remember, 100% of all royalties will be applied to Jeff's mission trip to Asia. Jeffrey W. Bennett, ISP is the owner of Red Bike Publishing. Jeff is an accomplished writer of non-fiction books, novels and periodicals. He also owns Red bike Publishing. Published books include: "Get Rich in a Niche-Insider's Guide to Self Publishing in a Specialized Industry" and "Commitment-A Novel". Jeff is an expert in security and has written many security books including: "Insider's Guide to Security Clearances" and "DoD Security Clearances and Contracts Guidebook". See Red Bike Publishing for print copies of: Army Leadership The Ranger Handbook The Army Physical Readiness Manual Drill and Ceremonies The ITAR The NISPOM

Take off and Landing Drills

“That was an excellent landing,” Steve said once on the primitive air strip.

“This is definitely a smaller area than I am used to landing in,” John said over the running engine. “Plus I’m not used to landing uphill.”

“This is probably one of the toughest landing areas you will eventually take over from me,” said Steve.

“Who lives here?” asked John. Their landing earned only a few glimpses and a wave from the villagers up the hill. John wasn’t sure, but he thought the half-naked males wore gourds to cover themselves.

“A branch of the Yali tribe. They inhabit most of the Balium Valley. We won’t stay though. The missionary that served here had to leave for personal reasons. I don’t know when he will be replaced.”

“Daryl told me that a lot of people end up leaving,” said John. He watched as Steve took the controls and pointed the plane downhill.

“Try taking off this way,” said Steve. “We do have some leaving. The Lawrences were as dedicated as any, but he had to take care of his family. There are a lot of hardships to being a missionary, but it’s tougher when your children don’t adjust,” said Steve.

John could feel his stomach drop as the plane lurched skyward. “Dedication to job verses dedication to the family,” he said.

“It’s going to be just as tough for you,” said Steve. “You’ll get homesick and lonely. Dedication takes on many forms and has many obstacles. I’m sure you are feeling some pangs.”

“Yeah, I guess I am. I’m not sure I will make it as long as most pilots do,” said John.

“Oh, in what way?” asked Steve.

John suddenly felt nervous. “I mean, I have no problem being here but I see myself flying airliners. That’s my future,” said John uncomfortably.

Steve seemed unfazed.

“You don’t see that as a problem?” asked John.

“Somewhat, but I think the Lord has you here for some reason. We’ll just have to work with you while we have you,” said Steve.

Remember, 100% of all royalties will be applied to Jeff's mission trip to Asia. Jeffrey W. Bennett, ISP is the owner of Red Bike Publishing. Jeff is an accomplished writer of non-fiction books, novels and periodicals. He also owns Red bike Publishing. Published books include: "Get Rich in a Niche-Insider's Guide to Self Publishing in a Specialized Industry" and "Commitment-A Novel". Jeff is an expert in security and has written many security books including: "Insider's Guide to Security Clearances" and "DoD Security Clearances and Contracts Guidebook". See Red Bike Publishing for print copies of: Army Leadership The Ranger Handbook The Army Physical Readiness Manual Drill and Ceremonies The ITAR The NISPOM

An incredible opportunity

Jeff wrote about missionaries, now he wants to be one. From now until January 31, 2012, 100% of all Commitment royalties will go to send him on mission.

Just like Marta, Jason and the crew of Commitment, Jeff is gearing up to go on a part time mission trip. Jeff is excited to take part in evangelical and humanitarian assistance in Asian countries.

You can help in five ways:

1. Commit to pray for safety and the opportunity to teach the Gospel to many who have never heard

2. Purchase your copy of Commitment. Jeff will commit 100% of his royalties toward the mission

3. Tell your friends and family

4. Follow this blog and the Facebook page for updates

5. Consider joining your church in your own mission opportunity

Why Not Me? How God Chooses His Missionaries

Paul was a powerful advocate for Christ. In his letters, he helped the early Christians Jew and Gentile understand their relationship to Christ. His writings still help us to understand that as sin multiplies, so does grace.

So, how does one get called out of a murderous rampage into one the most effective evangelists the world has ever seen? It's called opportunity and preparation meeting a "calling". God created Paul for what he was going to ask him to do.

But why Paul? If you are like me, sometimes how God calls others out of their sinful lifestyle to be His missionaries, ministers and lay leaders while leaving you behind. You are sure that you could be used as well as anyone else and feel God may be ignoring your willingness to serve.

In Paul's case, he was perfect for God's use, he just didn't understand. Paul was a Jewish leader, lawyer, Roman, and Jew among many things. He knew God's law, Roman law, and was very well educated. He just didn't know Jesus.

As soon as Jesus revealed Himself, Paul believed. The same zeal he used to lock up Christians, he now used to free sinners. Paul knew Jesus and he realized grace.

What did God make you for? How is he using you? If you don't know, make it a point to study his word, pray and ask Him how you can serve.


Jeffrey W. Bennett, ISP is the owner of Red Bike Publishing. Jeff is an accomplished writer of non-fiction books, novels and periodicals. He also owns Red bike Publishing. Published books include: "Get Rich in a Niche-Insider's Guide to Self Publishing in a Specialized Industry" and "Commitment-A Novel". Jeff is an expert in security and has written many security books including: "Insider's Guide to Security Clearances" and "DoD Security Clearances and Contracts Guidebook". See Red Bike Publishing for print copies of: Army Leadership The Ranger Handbook The Army Physical Readiness Manual Drill and Ceremonies The ITAR The NISPOM