"The reality may be, when the tally is finally totaled, that North America is one of the most lost places on earth." Jim Ballard (missionary)

Isn't sad to think that one of the freest countries on earth could be the most lost? In America we don't force our beliefs upon anyone but allow people to freely worship as they choose. Yet, with all of our freedom the advancement of the gospel isn't what it could/should be. And these numbers can't be blamed on Canada alone! We must come to the realization that there are people living in the "Bible Belt" that know nothing of the death, burial and resurrection of Jesus Christ.

Every year Southern Baptist have a special offering during the Resurrection Celebration (Easter) that specifically goes to supporting the work of North American missions. This offering "Annie Armstrong Easter Offering" honors the work of the woman whose name it bears and supports those who currently serve as missionaries in their own country.

A short history of Annie Armstrong:

"Each year, we honor the life and work of Annie Walker Armstrong (1850-1938) when we give to the annual offering for North American missions named after her. As a tireless servant of God and a contagious advocate and supporter of mission efforts throughout the world, Annie Armstrong led women to unite in mission endeavors that ultimately led to the formation of Woman's Missionary Union, for which she served as the first corresponding secretary.

"Annie believed in Christ with all her heart, but it was her hands that expressed that belief in tangible ways. She spent a great amount of time typing and handwriting letters in support of missions. Many of these letters were quite lengthy and all were filled with conviction that more could and should be done in our mission efforts. In 1893 alone, she wrote almost 18,000 letters! Annie also never hesitated to use her hands to reach out to hug a child or distribute food and clothing and the Word of God to those in need. Her hands held her own Bible as she studied to know how best to share Gods love with others. And, most important, Annie was a woman of prayer, folding her hands in prayer to intercede for the missionaries and for those they were helping discover Christ.

"Annie rallied churches to give more, pray more, and do more for reaching people for Christ. As we continue to unite to make her vision a reality in North America today, we can be confident that her legacy will also be ours." [Taken from Annie Armstrong website www.anniearmstrong.com]

The Week of Prayer for North American Mission is March 7-14 2010 AD. It's a time for churches to focus on particular missionaries as well as the task of spreading the gospel throughout North America.

I ask that you consider praying seriously for these individuals. After you pray, ask God what He would have you give to support these dear servants. Then considering doing a short-term mission trip to help them in their task.

PRAY - - - - - GIVE - - - - - GO!