We are so blessed--thanks!

Dear friends,

As we began getting Christmas cards last week (yes, the mail can be that slow), we were reminded of how many of you back in the States are thinking of us, praying for us, supporting us, and caring about us. We reflect on the fact that everything we experience and accomplish here is made possible by our partnership together with you. As we move into a new year, we thought we'd describe how blessed we feel, sharing those blessings with you.

While many might fear raising their children in a third-world country, this has been a blessing for us. Our four were raised in a culture with an impact from such things as drugs and gangs that is less than some of you are dealing with. Separated from most of our relatives, our kids have adopted many fine "aunts" and "uncles" here. All of our children were able to be with us in Manila for Christmas this year, and at one point we were sitting in Starbucks, all talking about the advantages they felt they'd gained by growing up in the Philippines. They see themselves privileged with a global perspective and an adaptability that comes from a life of dealing with different kinds of people in different kinds of cultures.

I know medical reform is capturing a lot of attention right now in the States. My recent hospital stays (September in the States, then November here in Manila) made me grateful that our ministry partners have been there to provide our family with medical insurance that has covered all our needs--in spite of the limitations of the current system, and in spite of the stresses of the current economy.

Our life in the Philippines has been significant. We've made a real difference in the lives of individual people, entire churches, and even communities and cities. We've impacted the launching of thirteen new churches here, in roles ranging from door-knocker to Bible study leader to team leader to coach. We've helped train church leaders in a variety of formats including one-day seminars, extension programs, and even launching a new Bible college. We've helped missionaries thrive in the Philippines through participation and leadership in a new school for missionaries' children. We've trained people in planting new churches, and trained church planters in teaching church planting to others.

This week I was sharing with a friend the satisfaction I receive from training church planters. We spoke of the joy that comes in helping people who have been given a vision from God to do such a thing for his kingdom--how their passion and enthusiasm is contagious, and of the spiritual vigor that infuses those relationships, no matter how many times we're going through "the same material." Several of my friends back in the States would be happy to have any decent job right now--how blessed am I to be able to do work that is so rewarding!

The Filipino people are great. They are famous for their hospitality and friendliness. Spiritually, they are open to truths coming from God's word. I count Filipino colleagues among my closest friends, and several have been mentors to me. Their country is a beautiful one; we've spent all our ministry years here within view of forested mountains and tropical shores. I can't count the number of times I've slept as a guest in one of their homes and enjoyed the bounty of their tables--and it makes no difference whether that was a split-bamboo table in a grass hut or a marble table in a fine mansion; one of the most enduring lessons Carole and I have learned here is how to open our home and share with others.

So let us thank you for your faithfulness in supporting us and praying for us and sending us e-mails and being our friends. I know we've thanked you before, but you haven't stopped caring, and we won't stop being grateful!

In Christ,

Chris McKinney

"We loved you so much that we were delighted to share with you not only the gospel of God but our lives as well, because you had become so dear to us." (1 Thessalonians 2:8)