Joanna Rich

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August 29 2016

August 28, 2016 – Hope Church Update

We’re back again sharing the faithfulness of God at Hope Church. Thank you for staying tuned in each Monday to hear how God is working through Bro Martin, Julie, Jalisa, Jordan, and Joy there in Anchorage, Alaska. The family has enjoyed having the oldest brother/son, Jason, and his oldest daughter, Laynie, there for a visit this week. Jason has been remodeling the bathrooms in their home which has kept him quite busy. In the meantime, the girls have taken Laynie to the Fair and Zoo making wonderful Alaskan memories for her.

There were around 45 people that came to service yesterday: some that had never come before. Jason and Laynie helped the girls out with the music part of the service and Bro Martin shared about God seeking those who were lost. The illustration had greater meaning as Bro Martin had taken Jingles (Our beloved poodle) outside yesterday morning. After leaving him out to do his business, Bro Martin went back out to bring him in. Upon seeing that Jingles was not out there, he realized that the gate had been left open the night before thus providing a way for him to escape. Thankfully, he hadn’t wandered too far and was quickly found. As all of you know, losing something special to you can make your heart jump up into your throat! Oh, how Jesus must feel! Three precious souls responded to the invitation to pray.

George*, a disabled man, slowly shuffles every Sunday morning to get to church. He is just so excited to be there! He has no choice but to be homeless throughout the summer due to the high tourist population creating higher living expenses. The state requires for landlords to decrease the amount of rent they charge in the winter thus making it possible for some to afford the rent. George expressed to Bro Martin his excitement for September to be here so he can have a place to live.

Each Sunday the visitors receive a card for them to write their name, number and any prayer requests they may have. Bro Martin expresses, “Its heartbreaking to read the extremity of the needs that these precious people have.” We are so thankful for the opportunity to share Jesus, the source of our hope, with these precious people.

Thank you so much for your continued prayers.

May God bless you!

Joanna Rich

*Name changed to protect privacy

August 25 2016

Update on Hope Church

Joanna Rich Ministry News 2

Yesterday marked 1 month since the first service at Hope Church. It has been very exciting to see how God has worked over this month. One of our largest crowds was on the 14th of this month with 40 homeless people in service. Bro Martin preached “Life for a Look” — as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, even so must the Son of man be lifted up.” Six people responded with lifted hands to the invitation, two came forward for prayer. Bro Martin shares, “The wonderful presence of the Lord was evident.”

This tremendous outreach endeavor has not come without some major challenges. We are seeking to uphold the Kingdom of God, and therefore the enemy knows his kingdom is at stake. No matter the challenges, we KNOW who will always win the battle! I John 4:4 says, “Ye are of God, little children, and have overcome them: because greater is he that is in you, than he that is in the world.”

Please pray for the people of Alaska. There is some unrest among the homeless population at this time due to some policies and decisions made by the state officials. We ask you to please agree with us in prayer for the deliverance of the enemy’s strongholds and that the love and peace of God would fill these precious lives. We also ask you to pray for the protection of Bro Martin, Julie, Jalisa, Jordan, and Joy as they endeavor to be Ambassadors for Christ.

Thank you for being laborers together with us in the work of God. May God bless you!

Joanna Rich

August 16 2016

Martin/Rich Wedding

Joanna Rich Family Life 2

June 24, 2016 – The day that Derek & I, along with many others, have prepared for is HERE! Oh, what excitement filled our hearts as we got ready for this blessed occasion! I was blessed to have my 5 sisters and 1 sister-by-love (Native from Oregon) as my bridesmaids. Derek had his 1 brother along with 2 of my brothers and 3 friends, as his groomsmen. My other 4 brothers were ushers and my 7 nieces and nephews all had part in the wedding as well. It was quite an exciting wedding party!

In planning for this special day, Derek & I chose to customize each aspect of the wedding to be specially unique to us. Our primary desire was to bring Glory to God. He is the One that put us together, and it will always be His love that keeps our love and commitment to each other strong. One very unique thing we did was that we quoted the passage of 1 Corinthians 13 together. As many of you know, my parents made memorization a daily part of our lives growing up. It was amazing when Derek and I met to find out that he had given himself to memorization throughout his school years and beyond as well. We both have a passion for the truth of God’s Word, therefore we felt it most fitting to include that in our wedding ceremony.

We both sang to each other: Derek sang, “…Only God could love you more for he gave me this love that I have for you. What a blessing to know He’s your Lord, for only God could love you more than I do…” I sang a song my sister, Joy, had written for me on the day Derek & I were engaged – “…You are my wish come true, You’re all I’ve ever prayed for, God only knew that I needed you to make me complete. You’re the best, the best thing that’s happened to me…” It was a precious time of communicating our love through song.

Both of our dads along with Pastor Gerald Hood performed the ceremony. They performed their various parts with a depth of meaning and challenge. Instead of the customary Unity Candle, we decided to do the Unity Cross symbolizing the strength of the man united with the beauty and intricate design of the woman which is held together with 3 pegs symbolizing the Unity of Father, Son & Holy Ghost. It a special piece that sits on our dresser reminding us of the unity that should be in our marriage. After we exchanged our vows, our 3 Grandfather ministers joined our dads and Bro Hood to pray over us. It was a very special time in God’s presence.

Derek and I chose to compose our own vows to read/quote to each other. It was our desire to have vows concise enough to memorize and keep before us on a daily basis. We cherish the words with which we committed our life, love, and loyalty to each other and seek to make those words a reality each day.

The ending of the ceremony was with much significance. After we were pronounced husband and wife, Derek and I shared our first kiss. We had chose from the beginning of our relationship to save this special act of love for our wedding day. With God’s help, our commitment remained strong even during times of deep emotion. We have been so thankful that we waited.

There was right around 350 that attended our wedding. We were thrilled for all the family and friends who put forth the effort to come and share in our joy.

Thank you for your interest in this milestone in mine and Derek’s lives. Psalms 18:30 says, “As for God, his way is perfect: the word of the Lord is tried: he is a buckler to all those that trust in him.” There is peace trusting God’s perfect will for your life.

Blessings, Joanna Rich

August 11 2016

June 24, 2016

Joanna Rich Family Life 2

Dear Friends,

I have a correction to make to the previous post concerning the first Sunday at Hope Church. I had added a parentheses with June 24 instead of July 24. The first Sunday at Hope Church was July 24, 2016. By this mistake, You may can guess what date I’ve had on the brain… June 24, 2016 was the day that my life was forever changed for the better as I committed my life, love and loyalty to a Godly man, Derek Rich. I am posting on this subject by request of one of our faithful communicators on the website. I haven’t wanted to share all about me here, but I believe it is more about God than me. When I step back and look at what HE has done, It is truly amazing.

God brought our paths together in the early part of 2015 while I was attending Ozark Bible Institute. Yet, it wasn’t until the summer of 2015 that we began to have further interest for each other. Our conversations from the beginning consisted of our burden, insight, and involvement in various aspects of ministry. It was amazing how much of a connection I felt as we shared with each other. I was drawn to Derek’s dedication to the Lord above all. The physical attraction definitely came, but it wasn’t what drew me to him in the first place. I never met an individual that I felt more at ease sharing with.

After my family and I returned from Alaska in early October, we met up with the Rich family at Cheddar’s in Tulsa, OK. We enjoyed their fellowship over the meal. When we got ready to leave the restaurant, Derek and I started talking in the parking lot while our families courtesy talked in order to give us some time. At the end of that conversation, we exchanged numbers with our Dad’s blessing. From that point, we found every possible way to be together, ever seeking to get to know each other more. It wasn’t long and we both knew without a doubt that God was leading us to marriage. I’ve heard it said, “Don’t just find someone you can live with, find someone you can’t live without.” The latter was true in my heart towards Derek.

So, on January 1, 2016, Derek got on one knee and asked me to marry him and I said, “YES!” We enjoyed reading books together and talking through things that would not just prepare us for our wedding day, but for the rest of our lives. Today marks 1 month, 2 weeks, and 4 days that we have been married, and it has been the best time of my life. I have seen more how marriage, between 1 man and 1 woman, is ordained of God for sanctification, companionship, and pleasure. Marriage is truly a gift from God!

I will post more about the wedding this week. Thank you for sharing in our joy!

Blessings, Joanna Rich

August 9 2016

First Sunday at Hope Church

Joanna Rich Ministry News 3

Rejoice with me (x4)!!!!

Hope Church was blessed to have 30 people in attendance on this first Sunday (June 24, 2016). My girls did a wonderful job leading the worship in song. We gave out about 15 new Bibles sent to us by Bro. Larry Landress.

I preached on “HIDE & SEEK” from Genesis 3. It is the oldest game that started out serious. Such a sweet presence of the Lord prevailed. When I gave the invitation, 4 precious souls responded by coming forward for prayer, indicating their desire to be saved. Another told me later she should have come as well, and is moving that direction. Please rejoice with me and pray for God to strengthen them daily.

Then we served them a lunch of taco soup and nacho cheese/chips. They were very appreciative for the food. And we enjoyed sweet fellowship together around the tables.

They are so happy to have a church that they really feel a part of! Most of them have stories of rejection and hurt in past church experiences. Please pray that God will give us grace to never cause one of these little ones to stumble.

Thank you for your interest and involvement in what God is doing in Anchorage, especially for these street people. Thanks for being our friends and holding us up in prayer. We love you!

Bro James Martin and family

July 19 2016

Hope Church in Anchorage, Alaska

Joanna Rich Ministry News 4

You are cordially invited to attend the launching of Hope Church in Anchorage, Alaska. The initial service will be conducted on Sunday, July 24 at 10 a.m. We will meet at the Downtown Soup Kitchen (DSK) / Hope Center located at 240 East 3rd Ave., Anchorage, Alaska 99501.

On March 24, the Executive Director of the Downtown Soup Kitchen (DSK) / Hope Center, Ms. Sherrie Laurie, was talking with me about the expanding ministry she oversees. They feed 300-500 people a lunch of soup, sandwich & dessert each Monday through Friday. They host 30 women every night of the week as a Women’s Shelter. They also have a highly qualified and experienced baker who is training the women in baking skills and selling their creations to help support their ministry. Then she said, “But this building is sitting unused on Sunday mornings. We need to be having church in here for these dear people. But I don’t know who would be a right fit for such a ministry.” I could hardly believe my ears! Then I eagerly replied, “Are you serious? I would definitely be willing to do that!”

The next day she came to me after we finished the music. (My girls and I did the music & Scripture exhortations once a week during the 1-1/2 hours they served lunch. Now we do it 4 days a week.) She said, “James, I’ve been thinking more yesterday and this morning about having church here. I want to offer it to you if you and your children want to do it. I will just give you a key to the building, and it is all yours for free. I don’t want to be over it. You can use the kitchen, feed the people, let them do showers — whatever you want. I sense a different spirit about you and your children.”

When I initially began to tell people of my calling to move to Anchorage, it was common for people to ask me, “Do you plan to start a church?” My reply was simply this, “I plan to reach out to the people for whom God has sent me there, and if he wants me to start a church, it will grow out of the relationships that He builds with those people.” That is exactly what He has done!

The timing seems ideal. We were “outside” (an Alaskan term to describe when you leave Alaska) from late April until July 2 to help celebrate Jamin’s graduation from OBI and Joanna’s marriage to Derek Rich, as well as minister in a number of churches. Now that we are back to our new home, it’s a good time for the DSK and for us.

Please pray for God’s continued leadership coupled with our absolute sensitivity and obedience to His way. Most of all, we need the unhindered anointing of the Holy Ghost to empower us to preach Christ and Him crucified! He said, “And I, if I be lifted up, will draw all men unto me.”

“Now the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that ye may abound in hope, through the power of the Holy Ghost” (Romans 15:13).

Thanks to each of you who so faithfully and sacrificially undergird our family and ministry with your support in prayer and finances. May God bless you with an eternal return for your investment.

Sincerely,

Bro. James D. Martin

July 7 2016

Return to Alaska

Joanna Rich Ministry News 0

Upon arriving back in Anchorage on July 2nd, the family quickly got back into the swing of responsibilities and ministry opportunities. They were welcomed with a family of hornets or yellow jackets that had invaded the space while they were away. Thankfully, they were taken care of quickly.

The family sang in a 4th of July celebration/get together at Crossroads First Assembly on Sunday afternoon. There were quite a few visitors from the area that they were able to connect with along with the church people we have grown to love during our time there in Anchorage.

On Monday, July 4th, Bro Martin felt in prayer that he should go to the Brother Francis shelter and play patriotic gospel songs for the homeless. He asked permission of the authorities there and received warm favor to do so. Daddy expressed to me his sincere joy in using the talent God has given him to bless these people. He really felt a connection with the veterans as he played the National Anthem. He also went to the downtown park to play the trumpet. He was blessed by how people would stop to listen and salute.

The family came back to Anchorage with a greater level of ministry opportunity. The lady that was over the music at the Downtown Soup Kitchen during the lunch hour has now moved away to be with family. This means the girls will be ministering in song on a daily basis. There may be others to help from time to time, but they will be doing a majority of it. Please keep them in your prayers!

Many of y’all may have heard us speak of the opportunity to begin services for the homeless on a weekly basis. Bro Martin is meeting with the director of the Downtown Soup Kitchen to go over details about that opportunity. Please pray for wisdom and Holy Ghost empowerment for every step of the way.

We greatly appreciate you agreeing with us in prayer for God to have His way through Bro Martin, Julie, Jalisa, Jordan and Joy in Anchorage, Alaska.

May 9 2016

Reconciliation Through Apology

Joanna Rich Marriage 0

Sitting at a small kitchen table in Deering, Alaska, Bro Martin began to counsel Larry and Suzanne* who were at the point of divorce. After listening to many grievances, Bro Martin asked a straightforward question to Larry, “Have you apologized to her?” To which he responded, “I don’t do that!” His prompt and bold answer revealed the attitude of his heart. With this preface, I would like to delve into what apology is and what it accomplishes within our lives.

Apology is a work of God

Romans 2:4 Or despisest thou the riches of his goodness and forbearance and longsuffering; not knowing that the goodness of God leadeth thee to repentance?

II Timothy 2:25 In meekness instructing those that oppose themselves; if God peradventure will give them repentance to the acknowledging of the truth;

We can’t coax into true repentance. Bro Martin testified later that He breathed a prayer to God upon hearing the Larry’s harsh words. As the presence of the Lord softened his heart, a change took place. And this brings us to our next point on what apology is,

Apology is humility in action

Larry looked over at his wife and began to say things, by his own testimony, he had never said before. He began to pour his heart out in apologizing for his insensitivity to her needs along with much more. His apology revealed the humility of his heart.

Apology bonds hearts together

On this day in Deering, Alaska, Bro Martin witnessed the bond God put between Larry & Suzanne as true apology took place. Where there was extreme tension changed into genuine peace and joy.

Apology opens the way for God’s grace to reach the life

James 4:6 But he giveth more grace. Wherefore he saith, God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace unto the humble.

Larry & Suzanne were recipients of God’s grace in a special way that day. While we were in Alaska this past time, we got word that they are still together and at this point, training for the ministry! To God be all the glory!

Apology frees the guilty conscience and opens the passageway whereby more apology can take place.

One part of the story, I intentionally left out until this part was that after Larry poured out his heart in asking forgiveness, Suzanne was made to realize her own faults and asked his forgiveness for her wrong attitudes and feelings. Apology deals with the root of the issue, therefore it is freeing and if I could put it this way, addicting. For when you experience the freedom and peace that comes through forgiveness, no act of humility will seem too high a price to pay.

*Names are changed to protect privacy

Please feel free to share further insight and comments concerning your experience and perspective on apology.

April 25 2016

An Update from Alaska

Joanna Rich Ministry News 6

It is hard to believe the time has come for everyone to return back to the Lower 48 (or “Outside” as some Alaskans would say it). It has been a joyous and fulfilling endeavor to set up long-term residence there in Anchorage. We have been asked of our favorite things about Alaska. For some it would vary, but other than the amazing opportunities of ministry, our favorite thing has been the laid-back atmosphere of Alaska. It’s hard to believe it’s still the US by the difference in the culture and daily lifestyle. We have enjoyed having the time set aside for family interaction. Our meal time and devotions have been especially meaningful as we have shared different aspects of our days with each other. Our closeness as a family has deepened over this time for which we are very thankful.

The ministry with the homeless and hospital patients has been so fulfilling. Daddy enjoys the daily routine of having devotions as a family in the morning prior to him going to the Downtown Soup Kitchen and Native American Medical Center. God has opened many hearts to the Gospel through one-on-one interaction and in a group setting! On one occasion at the soup kitchen, God’s presence was so real while the girls were singing Amazing Grace that most of the eating stopped as the people started crying and worshipping. Another Monday at the Soup Kitchen, a lady came up to Daddy after he had shared some scriptures about salvation. She was crying as she expressed the bondage that alcohol had on her life and how much she wanted to be free from it. As Daddy prayed with her, she experienced hope that things could change. She shared how she felt so much peace inside. This is only a couple of the many stories we could share. There will be more to come!

Julie has taken on several new opportunities. She is now a volunteer at the Native American Medical Center twice a week. She serves the patients as they take Chemotherapy. She has dealt with very sad cases, yet with each of them she looks for ways to bring a brightness to their difficult days. She is also actively involved at the Women’s Shelter, which is possible to pick up even more after her return to Alaska in July 2016. Jalisa, Jordan, and Joy have greatly missed their friends and family back in the Lower 48. As you can imagine, the adjustment of a new residence has been easier for some more than others, yet God has given abundant grace.

There are two significant events that brings the family home for this length of time during the summer. On Friday, the twenty-second of June, Jamin received his 4 year diploma with honors from Ozark Bible Institute. We are so proud of him and the diligence he has exemplified in applying himself to the study of God’s Word. Congratulations, Jamin, on your tremendous accomplishment!

The next exciting event in the Martin family will be held on June 24, 2016 at First Baptist Church in Mt Vernon, TX where I, Joanna Martin will be joined in marriage to the Love of my life, Derek Rich! We are joyfully preparing for this blessed day! Soon after the wedding, Bro Martin, Julie, Jalisa, Jordan, and Joy will be returning to Anchorage, Alaska where they will continue the ministry there.

Please keep us in your prayers as we seek to be lead by the Lord each step of the way.

We hope you enjoy these pictures.

Bro Martin, Julie, Jordan, & Joy about to fly out from Anchorage, Alaska.

It’s Dinner time at the Downtown Soup Kitchen

Our new residence in Anchorage, Alaska

A powerful move of God at the Downtown Soup Kitchen

The Martin family at Jamin and his girlfriend, Allison’s graduation party.

April 4 2016

How to Use Acceptance to Bless Others

Joanna Rich Inspirational 0

How to Use Acceptance to Bless Others

{Thoughts from a message by Dr. S.M. Davis that challenged our family.}

Mark 10:13 And they brought young children to him, that he should touch them: and his disciples rebuked those that brought them. 14 But when Jesus saw it, he was much displeased, and said unto them, Suffer the little children to come unto me, and forbid them not: for of such is the kingdom of God. 15 Verily I say unto you, Whosoever shall not receive the kingdom of God as a little child, he shall not enter therein. 16 And he took them up in his arms, put his hands upon them, and blessed them.

Seek to give acceptance to everyone whom God brings across your path

Giving acceptance is a choice you make followed by an action you display.

We will live a life of fulfillment and joy when we spend our lives giving acceptance instead of seeking it. You may ask, how can I communicate acceptance?

Here are 3 ways we communicate acceptance:

Smile
Small talk
Friendly touch

Try to not communicate rejection to anyone

Rejection as well as acceptance is easily sensed by others. The attitudes of those around will reflect whether they are feeling rejection or acceptance. Our Christianity isn’t Christ-like if the only ones we accept are the ones that are just like us.

Try to communicate acceptance even when you can’t give approval.

Hate the sin, love the sinner. Jesus strove to give acceptance to everyone. By His acceptance of the sinner, He portrayed His depth of love for their souls. Yes, His ultimate goal was for them to be saved. However, they weren’t open to His salvation until they saw His love and care for them. We must in the same way seek to be filled with God’s love for others.

How has giving acceptance to others benefitted your life? Please comment.