Fallon, NV, October 11-15, 2015

I jokingly shared with everyone on our final night there that I like coming to Fallon for the health benefits.  Most everyone understood the humor in this as I always seem to react to the many different allergens in this part of the desert of northern Nevada (Fallon is one hour east of Reno, and home of the Fallon Naval Air Station and the well known “Top Gun” school for naval aviators).  In addition to this, physical adjustment to higher elevation (4,000 feet) and a full schedule make every trip to Fallon a “rigorous” time (I need to stay in shape to keep up with Pastor Paul Slaton).  I went on to share, however, that there is a real truth to my claim in that Carey and I always experience the spiritual health and blessing of being around the body of Christ in Fallon.  There is an amazing and visible demonstration of the kingdom of God --- the “front lines,” if you will --- in this place.  The ripples of this church in the community can only be described as miraculous and very Acts-like (as in the book of Acts) as Jesus continues to draw and touch people from every walk of life.  Among various things, it is a moving experience to get right into the middle of the weekly food distribution on Thursdays (Carey and I usually help people load their cars) and see not only the people, but their responses.  

Weekly food distribution at the church's warehouse in Fallon

​This responsiveness seems to be the common thread that I see, whether it be at the food pantry, the thrift store, weekly meetings with recovery groups, various other small groups, or the services on Sunday and the revival services we have when we are there.  I believe that the only explanation of this is the reality of Jesus Himself working through people who are available and dependent upon Him.  Essential to this, I believe, is the genuine focus of this Fallon body on the Word of God.  There is a continual hunger and seeking after Him in the Word, and new people that come to the church are drawn into this and discipled in the same kind of seeking.  This is their “DNA.”  I praise God for this group.  It is truly the case that Carey and I are strengthened in Him every time we go there as we are reminded more of who Jesus is, what His kingdom looks like, and what He wants to do through anyone who is available to Him. It gives us a deeper hunger to be as available to Him.  Thank you to our Fallon family in Christ for being such a witness.  I would encourage anyone to consider Fallon as a possible destination for your work and witness or mission trip.  You won’t leave the same! 
 
In Christ,
 
John