Wednesday, September 19

Prayer: Joel Noland

Dear friends,

Many of you know our good friend, Joel Noland, who came on staff earlier this year to help with sound & production for the Worship Ministry. Prior to coming on board at Harvest, Joel served in the military as a Marine Sergeant in Iraq for 3 tours of duty which he completed in 2006. It was through these times that the Lord drew Joel to Himself in a genuine relationship through Christ Jesus, followed shortly by promptings to pursue full-time technical ministry.

Part of Joel's military contract included the possibility (up to a few years after he completed his duty) to be recalled to active duty.

Earlier this week he was down in Kansas City getting screened for possible recall, and last night we received news that he is indeed being called back to war.

Isaiah 46:9-10 - "I am God, and there is none like me, declaring the end from the beginning and from ancient times things not yet done,
saying, 'My counsel shall stand, and I will accomplish all my purpose.'"


This is especially difficult as Joel has been settling in to civilian life -- a new job here at Harvest, recently engaged to girlfriend Allie Liu, and going to school part time at Columbia College.

He will be receiving exact orders in the coming weeks and will be leaving for Iraq no later than end of February 2008.

It's in moments such as this that we are strongly reminded of God's sovereignty and of our constant need of His strength and peace.

Joel is just one of many that have given so sacrificially for all of us to know and enjoy the benefits of our free society.

Would you consider putting this situation at the top of your regular prayer list for the coming months?

It would be a great encouragement to Joel and his family and all of us.

Please pray for:
  • Joel's safety and God's continued protection and favor.
  • Peace, strength, and comfort for Rory and family and Allison through these times
  • Joel's strong witness for Christ in the coming difficult circumstances
  • Joel's quick and safe return when he leaves
  • Adequate staffing help here in Worship Production Ministry while Joel is away
"Who is this King of glory? The Lord, strong and mighty, the Lord, mighty in battle!"
- Psalm 24:8

"Now I know that the Lord saves his anointed; he will answer him from his holy heaven with the saving might of his right hand."
- Psalm 20:6

2 comments:

Anonymous said...

I still think that war is wrong.

Matthew Westerholm said...

Kim, why do you think that?