Prayer for Hostages in Philippines (1 views) Subscribe   
  From:  WendyJM1    5/30/2001 4:16 pm  
To:  ALL   (1 of 29)  
 
  49.1  
 
Please keep these people in your prayers. 
For those who have not heard of New Tribes Mission, visit their 
site for more info. 
http://www.geocities.com/jjelliott9/about_new_tribes_missionframe.htm 

*****NOTICE***** 

You may have heard by now about the 20 people taken hostage in 
the Philippines. One of the couples, Martin and Gracia Burnham, 
are New Tribes Missionaries and friends of ours. We knew Martin 
and Gracia when they attended Calvary Bible College years ago. 
Because Martin is a pilot, he comes to Papua New Guinea for our 
Southeast Asia Safety Seminars. Martins brother, Brian and 
family, minister here with us in aviation in Papua New Guinea. 
Obviously, this situation is very sobering and we are all 
concerned about the Burnhams. We ask you to pray with us for a 
soon and safe release. Pray also for grace and peace for them 
and their families as they go through this trial. May they 
"come forth as gold" and may our Lord be glorified. (from Tim & Kay Hughes) 

For more information and updates, you can log on to the 
following website: 
http://www.ntm.org/connect/headlines/burnham.shtml 




 
  
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  From:  David (DavidABrown)    5/30/2001 7:09 pm  
To:  WendyJM1    (2 of 29)  
 
  49.2 in reply to 49.1  
 
My prayers are Defiantly with the hostages and their families and friends and with the Philippine people themselves as I know the hostages would want it that way. 
New Tribes Mission is one of those amazing Sold out for Jesus organizations. The Volunteers and Missionaries that are a part of that Missionary work are Incredible to say the least! 

I have wanted to recommend a video from NTM called EE-Taow! It is the documentary of how a tribe group was led to Jesus. It is great! So I will recommend it here. The video is a great way to include Missionaries into our prayer life, for those of us who are armchair Missionaries like myself. I would totally recommend the video for any church, prayer, bible study, youth or teen group. This and other NTM videos can be obtained at 
www.ntm.ort 

Again our earnest prayers go out for Gods Glory and resolution in this matter. 





David A. Brown
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  From:  WendyJM1    5/31/2001 11:38 am  
To:  David (DavidABrown)    (3 of 29)  
 
  49.3 in reply to 49.2  
 
Hi David - this is the latest today regarding the hostages from Bob Nyberg - his site is listed below his name.... 
wendy 
Hello Brothers & Sisters in Christ, 
I thought I'd pass on the latest information about the crisis in the 
Philippines: 

MANILA, The Philippines (May 30, 2001): The Philippine government has 
asked for a news blackout to facilitate their efforts to secure freedom for the 20 people kidnapped Sunday, including NTM (New Tribes Mission) missionaries Martin and Gracia Burnham. 

New Tribes Mission is complying with these efforts by not releasing any new information at this time, but we hope to be able to issue an update soon. 

Martin, 41, and Gracia, 42, from Kansas, were among 20 people kidnapped early Sunday morning from a resort off the island of Palawan in the Philippines. The Burnhams have been members of NTM since 1985. Monday, the Muslim separatist group Abu Sayyaf claimed responsibility for the abductions. 

New Tribes Mission has been in contact with the US Embassy in Manila and officials of the Philippine government, and the mission appreciates the efforts being made by the Philippine government to secure the safe return of all the hostages. 

All of us in NTM are praying for those held captive and their families. We ask that you join us in prayer, and remember to pray also for all those involved in this incident. 

----------------------------------------------------------------------MANILA, The Philippines (May 31, 2001): The search continues for rebels who on Sunday kidnapped 20 people, including NTM missionaries Martin and Gracia Burnham. Although sightings have been reported, nothing has been confirmed at this point. 

New Tribes Mission leaders are involved in ongoing meetings with government officials, and continue to be pleased with the cooperation the mission is receiving. 

Martin, 41, and Gracia, 42, from Kansas, were among 20 people kidnapped early Sunday morning from a resort off the island of Palawan in the Philippines. The Burnhams have been members of NTM since 1985. 

Monday, the Muslim separatist group Abu Sayyaf claimed responsibility for the abductions. 

New Tribes Mission has been in contact with the US Embassy in Manila and officials of the Philippine government, and the mission appreciates the efforts being made by the Philippine government to secure the safe return of all the hostages. 

For the most current information check out the following link: 

http://www.ntm.org/connect/headlines/burnham.shtml 

Thank you all for praying! 

Because of Calvary, 

Bob Nyberg 

http://www.4himnet.com/bnyberg/Welcome.html 




 
  
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  From:  WendyJM1    6/2/2001 7:39 am  
To:  ALL   (4 of 29)  
 
  49.4 in reply to 49.3  
 
MANILA, The Philippines (June 2, 2001)  The NTM Philippines branch office has received word today that missionaries Martin and Gracia Burnham are alive and unharmed, but are still being held captive. 
Martin and Gracia, along with 14 other hostages, are held by the Abu Sayyaf rebels on the island of Basilan. Four Filipino hostages have been rescued. Fighting has continued throughout the day in an effort to liberate the remaining hostages. We appreciate your continued prayers on their behalf. 

Martin, 41, and Gracia, 42, from Kansas, were among 20 people kidnapped in the early morning hours on Sunday, May 27, from a resort off the island of Palawan in the Philippines. The Burnhams have been members of NTM since 1985. 

Monday, the Muslim separatist group Abu Sayyaf claimed responsibility for the abductions. 

New Tribes Mission has been in contact with the US Embassy in Manila and officials of the Philippine government. 

All of us in NTM are praying for those held captive and their families. We ask that you join us in prayer, and remember to pray also for all those involved in this incident. 



 
  
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  From:  David (DavidABrown)    6/2/2001 7:44 am  
To:  WendyJM1    (5 of 29)  
 
  49.5 in reply to 49.4  
 
Thank you again for the timely updates. 
We will contine to pray for their safe return! 






David A. Brown
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  From:  WendyJM1    6/21/2001 1:58 pm  
To:  David (DavidABrown)    (6 of 29)  
 
  49.6 in reply to 49.5  
 
MANILA, The Philippines (June 19, 2001): New Tribes Mission leaders are overall encouraged by information gleaned about kidnapped missionaries Martin and Gracia Burnham from a recently released hostage. Martin, 41, and Gracia, 42, from Kansas, were among 20 people kidnapped by Abu Sayyaf rebels in the early morning hours of May 27, from a resort off the island of Palawan in the Philippines. The Burnhams have been members of NTM since 1985. 
NTM leaders interviewed one of the hostages released over the weekend, who said Martin and Gracia are both fine but suffering from malaria. Martin has a superficial wound in the upper back that is healing well. Their spirits are strong and they are an encouragement to the other hostages. 

Martin is able to lead the hostages in daily times of prayer and singing. Released hostages have reported that Martin's spiritual strength has gotten them through some tough times. 

"When the rest of us are praying, 'Lord, get us out of here,' Martin is praying, 'Thank you, Lord,'" reported one former hostage. 

Gracia has consoled other hostages when the burdens have become too great. 

At the same time, Martin, Gracia and the other hostages are in a demanding situation. They are moving constantly due to the pressures from the Philippine military, although we have been assured that the military has the safety of the hostages as a high priority. Former hostages tell of being tired and sometimes having to move at night. 

Food is unpredictable. 

The former hostages say they have been well cared for and there are no threats or intimidation of the prisoners. The rebels have been very respectful of their women captives, declining to even touch them. 




 
  
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  From:  David (DavidABrown)    6/21/2001 3:05 pm  
To:  WendyJM1    (7 of 29)  
 
  49.7 in reply to 49.6  
 
Thank You Wendy, for the timely update. 
And thank you for the Information of their strength and courage in the Lord Jesus. 

I continue to pray that they will have a speedy release, but as usual it looks like God has a plan that is Bigger and more Grand than we can imagine. I think the effects of this kidnapping will last for eternity. 

How is that for Missionary work; rebel armies kidnapping you. 

God Bless You, 
David 





David A. Brown
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  From:  WendyJM1    7/7/2001 5:01 pm  
To:  David (DavidABrown)    (8 of 29)  
 
  49.8 in reply to 49.7  
 
MANILA, The Philippines (July 3, 2001): Kidnapped NTM missionaries Martin and Gracia Burnham are doing well under the circumstances, a recently released hostage has told New Tribes Mission leaders. 
Luis Bautista III and Lalaine Chua were kidnapped May 27 along with Martin and Gracia and 16 others. Mr. Bautista and Miss Chau said they had been with Martin and Gracia until three days ago, when Mr. Bautista and Miss Chua were separated from the rest of the hostages prior to being released. 

In a meeting involving many people, Mr. Bautista told NTM (New Tribes Mission) leaders that despite the difficult conditions, Martin and Gracia were doing well. The mission hopes to get more information in subsequent meetings. 



REAL LIFE FORUM 
FM-CFS-MPS HOPE FORUM 
 
  
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  From:  WendyJM1    7/19/2001 11:30 am  
To:  David (DavidABrown)    (9 of 29)  
 
  49.9 in reply to 49.8  
 
JULY 19, 2001 
In the last few days we have received word that Martin and Gracia Burnham are OK. We have also been informed that Martin received a pair of glasses. He needs glasses, and has had to negotiate jungle trails without them. 
Local newspapers have recently run articles quoting Muslim leaders speaking out against Abu Sayyaf. "Muslim and Christian religious leaders of Western Mindanao have issued a joint statement condemning 'lawless elements,' referring mainly to the Abu Sayyaf terrorists," said one report. 

Muslim elders have separately issued an appeal asking for the release of the hostages, the report said. "We appeal to you to safely free the hostages, you have taken, respect their rights as human beings, which we Muslims are required to do," the report quoted the elders as saying. 

NTM leaders have met with a number of Philippine government 
officials, including Vice President Guingona. We have expressed our concern for Martin and Gracia's safety as the military continues to press the Abu Sayyaf rebels. 

We have also had regular meetings with officials at the US Embassy, and have met with the brother and uncle of American hostage Guillermo Sobero. Please pray for the Sobero family. 

Currently there are no negotiations between the Philippine government and the Abu Sayyaf. Pray that talks would be restored. Continue to pray for the safe release of all those being held hostage. 



REAL LIFE FORUM 
FM-CFS-MPS HOPE FORUM 
 
  
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  From:  WendyJM1    1/30/2002 5:41 pm  
To:  David (DavidABrown)    (10 of 29)  
 
  49.10 in reply to 49.9  
 
PHILIPPINES HOSTAGE UPDATE

SANFORD, Florida (Jan. 30, 2002): New Tribes Mission is greatly concerned that the Administration is not giving the situation of kidnapped missionaries Martin and Gracia Burnham the priority necessary for their survival.

President Bush's State of the Union address, while excellent, did nothing to address what New Tribes Mission believes is a crucial question: What about the Burnhams?

We commend the President for partnering with the Philippine government in taking steps to counter this terrorist threat in the long term, by providing military training and assistance. But more must be done to address the immediate needs of the hostages. Their physical and emotional condition has continued to deteriorate throughout their eight months of captivity. Their lives are at stake daily due to disease, poor nutrition, exposure to the elements and ill-planned military engagements. They will continue to be at risk until they are freed.

New Tribes Mission asks the Bush Administration to respond to the eight-month captivity of Martin and Gracia Burnham in the same way it has to terrorist threats and activities around the world: clearly and decisively. A statement
to that effect would encourage the Burnhams' families in these difficult times. It would also put the kidnappers, the Abu Sayyaf Group, on notice that the USA will not tolerate this situation any longer.

You can help by calling on your representatives and senators to lend their voice in a cry for the release of the Burnhams, and to express their deep concern to the Administration. You can call, write and e-mail the White House to ask the President, "What about the Burnhams?" The urgency you express could be a way of breaking the inexplicable silence of our President.

Please continue to pray that the Burnhams and their fellow hostage, Philippine nurse Deborah Yap, will soon be released. 

Information for contacting the White House: http://www.whitehouse.gov/contact/
Information for contacting representatives: http://www.house.gov/writerep/
Information for contacting senators: http://www.senate.gov/contacting/index.cfm


Wendy

"I wish above all things that you may prosper and be in health, even as your soul prospereth" 3John2

 
 
  
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  From:  123four   2/1/2002 9:59 am  
To:  WendyJM1    (11 of 29)  
 
  49.11 in reply to 49.10  
 
Yes, have been praying for these people. 
We need their release immediately. Praying 
that Pres. Bush would see the need to 
respond to the people on this situation. 
  
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  From:  Rtartan   2/2/2002 2:48 pm  
To:  WendyJM1    (12 of 29)  
 
  49.12 in reply to 49.10  
 
A friend of mine is going back there to visit family very soon. I am concern for my friend, the missionaries there that I know, as well as the hostages. I did not know until recently that Al Quida (sp?) had cells there and that The Government there and the US will be conducting Join ops sometime in the future. 
In anticipation of this we need to pray that the Islamic fundamentalist are twarted in their attempt to target Christians today and through the coming months. 

Artie
 
  
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  From:  WendyJM1    2/2/2002 5:52 pm  
To:  Rtartan   (13 of 29)  
 
  49.13 in reply to 49.12  
 
Amen - we all continue to pray for the Burnham's and others who are 'held hostage'.

 

Wendy

"I wish above all things that you may prosper and be in health, even as your soul prospereth" 3John2

 
 
  
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  From:  WendyJM1    4/3/2002 7:28 am  
To:  David (DavidABrown)    (14 of 29)  
 
  49.14 in reply to 49.10  
 
PHILIPPINES HOSTAGE UPDATE

Confident in God

MANILA, the Philippines (April 3, 2002): The kidnapping of missionaries
Martin and Gracia Burnham is now in its eleventh month, but New Tribes Mission's (NTM) confidence in God remains steadfast.

NTM is concerned by continuing engagements between the Philippine military
and the kidnappers, members of Abu Sayyaf Group. The fighting on Basilan
Island -- where the Burnhams and Filipina nurse Deborah Yap are being held -- poses a threat to the hostages' safety. But we have no doubt that God is in complete
control and is at work.

"Our soul waiteth for the LORD: he is our help and our shield. For our heart
shall rejoice in him, because we have trusted in his holy name. Let thy
mercy, O LORD, be upon us, according as we hope in thee." Psalm 33:20-22.

* Please pray for the safety of the hostages, and for their release. Pray
that God would bring to their minds Scriptures that comfort and encourage them.

* Pray for NTM's Crisis Team to have God's wisdom, and to persevere in
situations that are often confusing and frustrating.

* Pray that military and political leaders in the Philippines and the USA
would find a solution without further bloodshed.

* Pray that the families of the hostages would continue to have God's peace
and strength in the midst of this storm.

* Pray that each of us may be used of God through this situation to bring
glory to His name.

Martin, 42, and Gracia, 43, from Kansas, were kidnapped on May 27, 2001, by
the Abu Sayyaf Group from a resort off the island of Palawan in the
Philippines. Martin grew up in the Philippines, where his parents have been
missionaries for more than 32 years. The Burnhams have been members of NTM
since 1985.

 * * *

http://forums.delphiforums.com/realife1/start

 

Wendy

"I wish above all things that you may prosper and be in health, even as your soul prospereth" 3John2

 
 
  
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  From:  David (DavidABrown)    4/3/2002 2:01 pm  
To:  WendyJM1    (15 of 29)  
 
  49.15 in reply to 49.14  
 
Hi Wendy,

 

Thanks for the update!

 

Thank for your diligence in this matter.

 

I had hoped that it would end successfully many months ago.

 

With continued Trust in God we look forward to their safe release.

 

God Bless You,

David



David A. Brown
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  From:  WendyJM1    5/3/2002 10:55 am  
To:  David (DavidABrown)    (16 of 29)  
 
  49.16 in reply to 49.14  
 
PHILIPPINES HOSTAGE UPDATE

Threat reminds us to pray

SANFORD, Florida (May 1, 2002): New Tribes Mission was made aware early this morning of a threat made against our kidnapped missionaries Martin and Gracia Burnham.

We have read the media reports stating that a spokesman for the Abu Sayyaf Group has made threatening remarks in response to the Philippine government's refusal to negotiate a ransom payment for the Burnhams. Any threat made against the Burnhams, or any other missionary, concerns us.

Such a threat reinforces the urgency of the situation. This latest report reminds us all of the importance of praying for Martin and Gracia. Pray also for the families of the Burnhams; this makes a difficult time even more trying.

In your prayers, please remember Deborah Yap, the Filipina nurse who is also being held hostage.

Pray for:
* God's courage, wisdom and peace
* Abundant grace in the lives of family members
* God's will to be done
* God's calm in the face of provocation

Martin, 42, and Gracia, 43, from Kansas, were kidnapped on May 27, 2001, by the Abu Sayyaf Group from a resort off the island of Palawan in the Philippines. Martin grew up in the Philippines, where his parents have been
missionaries for more than 32 years. The Burnhams have been members of NTM (New Tribes Missions) since 1985.

 * * *

Here's the Reuter's news report:


Philippine Muslim Rebels Say May Kill U.S. Couple 
Wed May 1, 2:18 AM ET 


MANILA (Reuters) - Muslim guerrillas who have held a U.S. missionary couple hostage for almost a year in the southern Philippines said on Wednesday they may kill them since the government would not negotiate for their release. 

Photos 

Reuters Photo  
Slideshows 
 
  
Audio/Video 
  (AP)  
 
 
  
Abu Sabaya, a leader of the Abu Sayyaf guerrillas, issued the warning in an interview on RMN radio a day after the Philippine government said it was standing firm on its policy of not negotiating with the group, suspected of links with Osama bin Laden (news - web sites)'s al Qaeda network. 

Sabaya had earlier called on President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo (news - web sites) to appoint one of her top advisers to negotiate the release of U.S. missionaries Martin and Gracia Burnham, held since late May last year on the southern island of Basilan. 

"We have closed the negotiations so it is up to them (the government) to look for the dead body if they want to," Sabaya said. 

Asked if he meant the group would kill the Burnhams, Sabaya said: "It depends. For example, if we see our situation becoming difficult, maybe we will just bid good-bye to these two." 

He said, however, there were no immediate plans to kill the hostages. 

"We prefer to prolong the hostage crisis and to give more embarrassment to what we call the superpower and the AFP (Armed Forces of the Philippines)," he said. 


Wendy

"I wish above all things that you may prosper and be in health, even as your soul prospereth" 3John2

 
 
  
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  From:  WendyJM1    5/8/2002 9:37 am  
To:  David (DavidABrown)    (17 of 29)  
 
  49.17 in reply to 49.16  
 
PHILIPPINES HOSTAGE UPDATE

Missionaries reported well

MANILA, the Philippines (May 8, 2002): New Tribes Mission has been told that
kidnapped NTM missionaries Martin and Gracia Burnham are in good health.

In the last few weeks, several members of the Abu Sayyaf Group, which
kidnapped the Burnhams, have defected or been captured. It is reported that
at least one of them guarded Martin and Gracia.

While NTM has not yet had opportunity to talk with any of these prisoners,
we have been told that Martin and Gracia are healthy but tired. Their diet has
varied with their location -- they have moved about -- but at one point
recently they had chicken and rice to eat. This is an answer to prayer.

In Washington, DC, this week, two congressmen are asking the US government
for some answers.

The US ambassador to the Philippines, Francis J. Ricciardone, Jr., is in the
capital for his official swearing-in ceremony. During his stay, Rep. Todd
Tiahrt (R-Kansas) and Sen. Sam Brownback (R-Kansas) are to meet with the
Ambassador to discuss what is being done to seek freedom for Martin and
Gracia.

NTM is grateful for the efforts of the congressmen and Ambassador
Ricciardone.

While often it seems that little is being done, we continue to trust that
God is in control and that His name will be glorified.

Martin, 42, and Gracia, 43, from Kansas, were kidnapped on May 27, 2001, by
the Abu Sayyaf Group from a resort off the island of Palawan in the
Philippines. Martin grew up in the Philippines, where his parents have been
missionaries for more than 32 years. The Burnhams have been members of NTM
since 1985.

 * * *

Wendy

"I wish above all things that you may prosper and be in health, even as your soul prospereth" 3John2

 
 
  
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  From:  David (DavidABrown)    5/8/2002 11:17 am  
To:  WendyJM1    (18 of 29)  
 
  49.18 in reply to 49.17  
 
Thanks so much for these updates Wendy!

 

You Truly are a Faithful Friend Indeed!!

 

Its just like the book of Acts where the guards gave up but the prisoners remained strong, strengthened by the Holy Spirit.

 

God Bless you,

David



David A. Brown
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  From:  WendyJM1    5/8/2002 6:26 pm  
To:  David (DavidABrown)    (19 of 29)  
 
  49.19 in reply to 49.18  
 
What a good application - !  I've also thought of this another way ... those Abu Sayef people want $$$$ and New Tribes Missions do not work that way... (nor should they).  So the terrorists have 'hung on' to the Burnham's longer than any of the other hostages because of this (all the other hostages except nurse Deborah Yap were released months ago) but no money was forthcoming.  Then, they went for 'U.S. news coverage' and allowed the Philippine News lady in - but that didn't work either!!!!

God is OVER ALL  - see how the guerrillas are deserting and running off!!!  They have more intense 'heat' from people seeking them than ever before, and they are falling apart *from within*.... Praise God for this(!) 

It will be interesting to see the way that this is resolved - that God will get all the glory...

"...I am the LORD: that is my name:  and my glory will I not give to another, neither my praise to graven images..." (Isaiah 42:8)

 

Wendy

"I wish above all things that you may prosper and be in health, even as your soul prospereth" 3John2

 
 
  
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   From:  WendyJM1    6/7/2002 7:24 am  
To:  David (DavidABrown)    (20 of 29)  
 
  49.20 in reply to 49.18  
 
this is such sad news.... the Lord knows and in some way it will work together for GOOD (Romans 8:28)... for we have His promise ...

LATEST NEWS:

Gracia freed; Martin killed

SANFORD, Florida (June 7, 2002): NEW TRIBES MISSION has received the report of Philippine military action resulting in the death of Martin Burnham and the release of
his wife, Gracia. She is reported to have been wounded and is in a medical facility in Zamboanga. The Filipina nurse Deborah Yap is also reported killed

Philippine President Arroyo along with the US Ambassador has confirmed these
reports with the families.

Our hearts are heavy over the loss of Martin and Deborah. We are grateful
for Gracia's survival and we ache for her, their children and the rest of the
families.

The NTM crisis team in Manila has received confirmation of this information
from the US Embassy, but many of the details are unavailable at this time.

We know your hearts are also saddened by this report and we ask that you be
in prayer for Gracia, the children, the rest of the families and for the family
of Deborah Yap.




 
 
  
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From:  David (DavidABrown)    6/8/2002 1:17 am  
To:  WendyJM1    (21 of 29)  
 
  49.21 in reply to 49.20  
 
Hi Wendy,

 

Thank you for the difficult update.

 

A couple of days ago I saw on a news web site that there was going to be a Military push to gain the freedom of the hostages. I had such high hopes for their return.

 

Im sure that they conducted themselves in such a Christian manner and so glorified Jesus while being held captive that the Lord Jesus could no longer be separated from them and He called them to be with Him.

 

Thanks again for all of your updates.

 

God Bless You,

Your Brother in Jesus,

David



David A. Brown
Basic Christian: Forum
 
From:  WendyJM1    6/10/2002 7:58 am  
To:  David (DavidABrown)     
 
    
 
HI DAVID - this is the very latest,,, it is very inspiring:

     

Martin & Gracia Burnham 
... taken hostage May 27, 2001
 

Freed June 7, 2002!  
 
Monday, June 10, 2002  
 

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Gracia Update
According to Martin's brother, Brian, "Gracia is doing well. She is in good spirits. She has been able to talk to Martin's parents as well as her children via phone. She is very grateful to be free and is enjoying the food that is being provided to her." 
She is also doing incredible well spiritually and emotionally. Here are some things Gracia shared about how God worked miraculously in and through their lives this last year:

Martin was highly respected by every one of the Abu Sayyaf members. In the beginning they laughed in disbelief at how he responded to being a captive and their terror, but as time went on they were awed of his confident faith in the Lord Jesus.

Martin always graciously offered to carry things for the Abu Sayyaf and other hostages.

Martin was chained to a tree at night by an Abu Sayyaf guard. Every night for the whole year, Martin would thank the guard who chained him and wished him a good night.

Martin showed the love and compassion of Christ throughout this year of terror, to both his captors and the other hostages.

Martin had lengthy discussions about the claims of Christ with all the Abu Sayyaf guards and hostages. On one occasion he was having a very serious talk with Abu Sabaya about God's judgment on sin and that one day God would judge his sin. Gracia said she was in the background motioning to Martin to 'cool it' but Martin very gently continued shared the truth of Christ with Sabaya.

Gracia said that:

God graciously sustained them through this difficult trial. One day they were very very tired from hiking all day. They strung up their hammock, sat in it, and began to talk together.

Martin said, "It's been a very hard year, but it has also been a very good year. They began to thank the Lord for everything they could think of. Gracia said, "We thanked the Lord for our hammock, our boots (Deborah walked bare footed for the last two months), etc.

They thanked God for every believer that they had ever met, that they could remember. God encouraged their hearts with the thought that that person, couple, family or church was probably praying for them.

The Lord brought Ps. 100:2 to Martin's mind, which reads, "Serve the Lord with gladness: come before His presence with singing." The other hostages said that Martin and Gracia sang often.

Martin said, "We might not leave this jungle alive, but at least we can leave this world serving the Lord with GLADNESS. We can serve Him right here where we are, and with GLADNESS." 

The last thing that they did before Martin's death was to pray together, thank God for His faithfulness and then laid down for a nap. They were awakened by a fire fight between the ASG and the Philippine Scout Rangers, and Martin was ushered into the presence of His loving Lord.

Martin and Gracia's obedience and perseverance to the Lord's great commission through this fiery testing of their faith has captured the attention of the world. We thank God for their testimony and anticipate much fruit through their story.

The horrendous ordeal is over, but the are many new challenges that face Gracia, Jeff, Mindy, Zach and the rest of their extended family. We want to express our thanks for your faithful prayers for Martin and Gracia and their family. Please continue to pray for God's purpose to be fulfilled in and through Gracia's life. And, pray that thousands will hear of the wonderful love of Christ, and experience His saving grace through Gracia's testimony of God's faithfulness. 


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Martin Burnham (September 19, 1959 - June 7, 2002) 
Martin was a second-generation missionary. He first came to the Philippines in 1969 with his parents, Paul and Oreta Burnham, who are also NTM missionaries. After High School, Martin returned to the US where he met Gracia and graduated from Calvary Bible College and the Wichita Aviation Education Center. After completing NTM's Specialized Training, he and Gracia returned to the Philippines. Since 1986 they have been providing flight support to NTM missionaries, serving the many minority peoples of the Philippines. The couple's three children - Jeff, 15, Mindy, 12, and Zach, 11 - were all born in the Philippines. 

Most recently Martin had been serving as "chief pilot" for NTM Aviation in the Philippines. He was a highly skilled pilot and mechanic, but most of all, a very faithful and humble servant of the Lord Jesus Christ. As one of his coworkers stated, "he will be missed both personally and professionally -- as a friend, a great guy, and a seasoned pilot and leader."

Trust Fund
A trust fund has been set up to help Gracia Burnham and the three Burnham children. Donations can be sent to: 

The Burnham Family Trust 
c/o Valley View Bank 
7500 W. 95th St. 
Overland Park, KS 66212
USA 

Letters To Gracia and Family Members
Some have been asking about how to send letters to Gracia Burnham, her children Jeff, Mindy and Zach; Paul and Oreta Burnham (Martin's parents); or Norvin and Betty Jo Jones (Gracia's parents). Letters may be sent to NTM's International Headquarters:

(Intended Recipient's Name)
c/o New Tribes Mission
1000 East First Street
Sanford, FL 32771-1487
USA 

Philippine Hostage Crisis Fund
If you feel God is leading you to help defray the costs to NTM, the hostages and family members, incurred during this crisis, you may send a check to New Tribes Mission. The check should be in US funds and made out to New Tribes Mission, with the notation: For the "Philippine Hostage Crisis Fund."

Send it to:
New Tribes Mission
Attn: Philippine Hostage Crisis Fund
1000 East First Street
Sanford, FL 32771-1487
USA 

*For donation methods other than check or US dollars, email the NTM Finance Office (finance-office_hq@ntm.org) for details or call 407-323-3430 X245 (EST M-F) Also see "Donor Information" at NTM Online.

** For donations to an individual missionary, follow the instructions above only do not make a notation on the check. Include a separate note indicating the intention of the donation.


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God is at Work! 
Filipino men and women living in remote areas are coming to Christ, being discipled and are taking God's Word to other villages. Some of those coming to a recent seminar were tempted to turn back but they kept encouraging each other saying, "Let's not let the enemy stand in the way of our spreading the Good News to the ends of the earth - let's keep going." 
Find out more about what God is doing in Events This Week >>


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Have You Been Inspired?
Have you been inspired in some way as a result of the Burnham's captivity? If so, send us a word of testimony: burnham-inspiration@ntm.org.ph 


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Related Links 
NTM Online -Burnham Special Report 
Abu Sayyaf (ASG) - International Counter-Terrorism Profile


To subscribe to email bulletins, send a blank e-mail to:
ntm-burnhams-subscribe@yahoogroups.com 
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Martin, 42, and Gracia, 43, from Kansas, were kidnapped on May 27, 2001, by the Abu Sayyaf Group from the Dos Palmas Island Resort at Honda Bay off the island of Palawan in the Philippines, where Martin and Gracia were celebrating their 18th wedding anniversary. Martin grew up in the Philippines, where his parents have been missionaries for more than 32 years. The Burnhams have been members of NTM since 1985.  

 
From:  David (DavidABrown)    6/10/2002 8:37 am  
To:  WendyJM1    (23 of 29)  
 
  49.23 in reply to 49.3  
 
Hi Wendy,

 

Sunday morning I opened my Church bulletin to read and discovered that the usual announcements page was today a Prayer Reminders page.

 

Here is the page.

 

Please pray for the Burnham family and the family of Deborah Yap the Filipino nurse. Martin, Gracia Burnham are the missionary couple kidnapped in the Philippines a year ago. They were all three freed last Friday-Gracia to go home to her children and Martin and Deborah to be home with the Lord. Pray for :the peace that passes understanding.

 

Continue to pray for God protection for our country and our military around the world.

 

Pray for the Prince of Peace (Jesus) to work out His perfect plan for the nation of Israel.

 

All the Best to you,

God Bless you,

David



David A. Brown
Basic Christian: Forum
 
  
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  From:  Ruth (RUTHMARX)    6/10/2002 2:03 pm  
To:  David (DavidABrown)    (24 of 29)  
 
  49.24 in reply to 49.23  
 
You know David that is what we have to remember. God DID free all three of them last Friday. He just didn't do it the way we wanted or were expecting. 

Ruth

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  From:  WendyJM1    6/10/2002 3:04 pm  
To:  Ruth (RUTHMARX)    (25 of 29)  
 
  49.25 in reply to 49.24  
 
AMEN!!! That is *exactly* right!  A friend of mine who is with New Tribes Missions sent me the following when we were discussing this whole story:

"It's been a year since Martin and Gracia Burnham were taken captive. Finally
the long ordeal has a resolution ... although not the resolution we would
have chosen! With a heavy heart I ponder these events and seek to make sense
of it all. When life seems to come unraveled before my eyes, I recall what
someone long ago once pointed out to me:

"Life is like a tapestry.  The bottom faces the earth and the top faces
heavenward.  God can see the beauty of the work He is doing and the picture
as it is completed.  All that we on earth can see are the knots, loops and
hanging threads on the backside.  When we get to heaven, we can then look
down on the tapestry and see it all complete and it will be very beautiful.
It takes faith in Christ to be able to live with the knots down here."

Today I we are faced with the incomplete picture of knots and hanging
threads. Yet at this very moment Martin enjoys God's masterpiece from the
perspective of Eternity.

Yes, life is like a tapestry, rarely admired from the other side. What is
the significance of the under side? Tapestries are made of colorful and
varied threads, intricately woven with time and great care. Even the colors
are chosen with definite purpose. Often dark threads are placed beside other
dark threads to amplify the weaver's intent or to better define boundaries,
or clarify shapes. At times, if it were not for the dark threads, the colors
would run together, and the weaver's original intent would be lost. Lighter,
happier threads stand alone and are used more sparingly, as too many would
spoil the weaver's finished look. But both are necessary. Tapestries are
individual works of art in themselves. No two are alike. Each is to be
admired, enjoyed, shared. They increase in value over time, often having
survived a change of hands. Appreciative owners understand the meaning of a
labor of love.

So it is with our lives. We have lighter, more fanciful days, but more often
than not, many of our days are colored with dark clouds, a "happy-sad day",
as it were. Our lives pass through many others' lives, as in a change of
hands. There are passageways, thoroughfares, speedways, long country roads,
struggles, but we pass through them nonetheless. They are not here to stay.
The finished work of our lives is yet to be seen. Only a weaver appreciates
the hard work and long hours required to comprise one beautiful piece of
tapestry. Wait for the brighter days. They will come. The rose of all our
tomorrows awaits the Master Weaver's hand. So hold on ... the under side of
your life's tapestry is its own work in progress.

Life is like a tapestry
  With threads both dark
    and bright,
Where God is weaving history
  And melody and mystery,
    In tears and love and light.

Your life is like a tapestry. You look at one side and see all the
disconnected and loose ends and wonder, "What has my life become?" God sees
the finished product on the other side and sighs, "How beautiful you have
become."

Our life is like a tapestry
  Of intricate design
    With lovely patterns taking shape
      As colors intertwine,

Some of the threads
  We weave ourselves
    By things we choose to do -
      Sometimes a loving Father's touch
        Adds a special hue.

And though tomorrow's pattern
  Is not for us to see -
    We can trust His perfect hand
      Through all eternity.



In Christ

Wendy

 
 
  
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  From:  Ruth (RUTHMARX)    6/10/2002 3:34 pm  
To:  WendyJM1    (26 of 29)  
 
  49.26 in reply to 49.25  
 
OH Wendy that is beautiful! It's such a great way to look at life. We are too close to our life to see the changes and blessings some times. I have a few people that God has placed in my life to encourage me by telling me the changes that they have seen in my life over the years. They are such a blessing and God brings them around or shows them things in me just when I need to hear that encouragement. It's kind of like when you are doing needle work and every once in a while you'll turn it over to see what's going on in the back. If we pay attention I think God does the same thing and it's during those times that we'll get a glimpse of what He sees. 

We need to really be faithful to continue to pray for Gracia, the children and the rest of the family. This could be a real turning point in their lives. It's amazing God kept them through all of this and I know He will continue to be faithful.

Ruth

Recent Discussion Topics: 
How many old songs can you name? 
 Are you a oldie but goodie? Well come name some of those songs with us and let's meet each other.
 
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  From:  WendyJM1    6/11/2002 8:44 am  
To:  Ruth (RUTHMARX)    (27 of 29)  
 
  49.27 in reply to 49.26  
 
Amen Ruth... God 'excels' in making something wonderful out of something terrible.  I watched the news last night and they showed Gracia coming home off the plane into the airport and the waiting arms of friends/family.  She was very upbeat and said that "Martin died well"... no one but a Christian would say this, and her joy is a strong testimony to her faith.

It is wonderful that the Lord has given you encouragement through good friends, that is precious indeed.

wendy
 
  
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  From:  Ruth (RUTHMARX)    6/11/2002 8:56 am  
To:  WendyJM1    (28 of 29)  
 
  49.28 in reply to 49.27  
 
You are so right! People don't understand when someone has an attitude like that when a loved one dies. People are probably saying she's in shock. But you know Praise God because I know that when Martin went into the presense of the Lord he heard "well done my good and faithful servant". So many people were praying for them that they would not loose faith and that they would witness to their captors. God was so faithful to answer those prayers as they were being spoken. Martin and Gracia were faithful to allow God to use them in that way. This was totally a God thing because many people that have been held captive for less time have converted to Islam under the pressure.

Ruth

Recent Discussion Topics: 
How many old songs can you name? 
 Are you a oldie but goodie? Well come name some of those songs with us and let's meet each other.
 
- In Sheepgate
 
 
 



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   From:  David (DavidABrown)    6/11/2002 10:13 am  
To:  WendyJM1    (29 of 29)  
 
  49.29 in reply to 49.27  
 
Hi,

 

When I was in School of Ministry one of our guest speakers was the Director of the Missionary program.

 

He was an excellent speaker and did everything that he could to encourage people to become (overseas) missionaries.

 

During his talk he quoted Matthew 28:19

 

Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit:

 

He then specifically pointed out that this verse and all of the other verses about going out into the world say to go but not one of them has the promise of a return.

 

He said that he always wanted to make it clear to every missionary that there is no promise to return to our origins.

 

Every Missionary knows this well that is why they spend so much time putting their affairs in order before they leave and also why they make such a point to see as many people as they can before they leave. I love going to Missionary going away events.

 

I have several friends mostly from those classes at School of Ministry that are in oversees Ministries from Russia to Korea and Poland to Kenya and many places in between.

 

It really is our duty to support them spiritually with our prayer cover, emotionally, and physically.

 

God Bless You,

David



David A. Brown
Basic Christian: Forum
 
 
