Previous Update 3

Ross, me, and Mike (left to right) at the Truth conference, Pine Vally, CA

Hey everyone!

Sorry I haven't sent an update in a while, things have been crazy as we've returned from our annual regional conference and immediately transitioned into "go-mode" for Spring Break.

Conference was incredible. Thanks for your prayers! In the picture above is Ross and Mike. Ross is a senior entertaining the idea to work with Navs in the future, and Mike is a freshman (junior by standing) whose been a true joy having around. I was able to get to know both men much better over the weekend--we spent time together during free time taking a joy ride to the beach, met together with the director of Long Beach to talk about practical evangelism, and attended many of the workshops together.

Over the weekend it was exciting to see God work in both men's lives. Specifically for Ross, the conference came at a time of figuring out what he should be doing over the summer. He's been to Japan two years ago on a mission trip and has been seriously considering going back, and ultimately considering if God is calling him to Japan as a full time missionary after graduation. Though Japan has been on his mind these last few years, for whatever reason he's never really considered going again this summer.

Ross is not one to make rash decision by any means. His mood and character are both very steady. However through the course of this weekend God seemed to be asking Ross pretty pointedly whether he would consider again giving up his summer to go to Japan. Last venture he took there he made life-long friends and helped bring one of the more senior Japanese students to faith in Jesus. This summer Ross felt God asking him to consider "is ministering in Japan something I should be doing with the rest of my life?" There are a lot of practical reasons why this summer would not be good to spend in Japan--fund raising during a recession, giving up the opportunity to have an internship in his major, and of course, the personal comfort that accompanies staying home. Yet still, Ross felt God pointedly asking him to go.

The last day of the conference Ross asked the Japan team leaders to reserve a spot on the team for him. One week after returning home he's applied, been accepted, and sitting through orientation!!!

God seemed to give all of us a sweet taste of his Spirit this weekend, and this is one of many stories about what He did in their lives.  Thanks again for your prayers!

For the Kingdom,

Ryan and Ariel Mullarkey

P.S. I'll send out an email everyday for the next three days with updates, because there has definitely been enough happening in the ministry that I would like to catch you up on!