JAARS Volunteers Speak

“Are you calling us, Lord?” That’s what Larry and Terry Blackwell prayed in 1994 after listening to keynote speaker Henry Blackaby, co-author of Experiencing God: How to Live the Full Adventure of Knowing and Doing the Will of God. His challenge to get involved in missions work evoked an excited and positive response from the Blackwells. But finding a way around obstacles to their involvement seemed daunting.

Both had aging parents who needed their They themselves were approaching retirement years. And finances posed a problem too—they thought. Larry says, “The Devil seemed to put all kinds of doubts in our heads.”

Six years later, friends insisted the Blackwells accompany them on a visit to JAARS. The Blackwells had never heard of JAARS—only 115 miles from their home. They enjoyed a JAARS Day open house and on the way back, they both thought the same thing: this is where God wants us. Once home, they doubted, pointing to the day’s excitement. But God kept affirming His call. Their pastor encouraged them to trust Him to provide for their needs and take away any roadblocks to service.

Larry and Terry, former salesman and secretary, then decided to come volunteer for a week. Enthusiasm built each day as they learned more about the work here. Later they came for a weekend and returned home firm in their decision to move towards service with JAARS.

New obstacles appeared. Some family members opposed their decision. Finding a new home at the right price took time. And needed support for their ministry did not immediately appear. Frustration showed up too. Terry says, “I learned the Lord was going to ask me to do other difficult things in the future. He wanted me to obey, step out, and trust Him alone. It wasn’t people who would provide for our needs, but Him.”

Eventually, all the barriers came down and in February 2001, the Blackwells moved to JAARS. Terry worked as a center tour guide for two years. She then became the Volunteer Coordinator, meeting new volunteers and helping place them in a job they enjoy. Terry says, “I can relate to these people and encourage them to seek God and see if this is where He wants them. We are willing to train them so they can enjoy what they do here.” Larry agrees, “The beauty of serving at JAARS is that if one job does not suit you, you can try another.”

Larry serves in Partnership Ministries telephoning people interested in the work of JAARS. He calls to thank them for donations and also asks how he can pray for them. In addition, he calls pastors to tell them about The Bibleless Peoples Partnership Project. Churches that want to connect more intimately with a language project overseas can talk to him for details and help.

He’s also been involved in coordinating funds coming in for four-wheel-drive vehicles destined for translation teams in Africa. “It’s a blessing to see our translators get safe, reliable transportation,” Larry says.

For the Blackwells, it certainly was an adventure finding the will of God for their lives—an assignment at JAARS. They love it, saying “It’s refreshing to work at JAARS. People are loving and relaxed; there’s no pressure. How could one em>not want to work here? It’’s such a pleasure!”

How about you? Have you found God’s will for your life? God can overcome doubts, fears and obstacles blocking your way. Maybe supporting worldwide Bible translation by working at JAARS is part of His plan for you.